March 31th, 2016

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

thursDAY • MArch 31 • 2016

DIMAPUR • Vol. XI • Issue 87 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

Nature herself has imprinted on the minds of all the idea of God Modi strikes sympathy chord with terror-hit Brussels PAGE 08

P o W e R

o F

— Cicero

State BJP says public misinformed on its secular features, policies

England enters WT20 Final

PAGE 05

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

T R u T H

PAGE 12

Myanmar in historic power shift

Naypyidaw, March 30 (aFp): Myanmar entered a new era on Wednesday as Aung San Suu Kyi’s democracy movement took power after 50 years of military domination, with a close aide of the Nobel laureate sworn in as president.

Htin Kyaw, a school friend and confidante of the democracy champion, succeeds former general Your Excellency, We Thein Sein, who ushered in brought you list of a few corrupt officials from differ- reforms that transformed Myanmar from a repressive ent departments. hermit state to a nation full of hope. As Htin Kyaw took the oath of office, he hinted he would change the armyimposed constitution that has excluded his friend and mentor from the top post.

Suu Kyi, 70, is barred from becoming president by the junta-scripted conCITIZEN UMBRELLA stitution but has declared that she will steer the govCITIZEN UMBRELLA MANUFACTURER LTD. H.O.: 147, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kolkata-7 ernment anyway. Htin Ph. No. 033-2268-1396, 2271-2152 Fax : (033) 2271-2151 Kyaw is expected to act as E-mail : citizenkolkata@gmail.com her proxy.

The handover at the junta-built parliament in the capital Naypyidaw MORADABAD, U.P. marks the final act of a prolonged transition since Suu Kyi’s National League (2016-2017) for Democracy party swept elections last November.

The NLD won 80 per-

KOTHIWAL DENTAL COLLEGE

ADMISSIONS

cent of parliamentary seats, giving them a massive public mandate to rule.

They are tasked with reviving a battered economy and a society straitjacketed by the army, which ruled with an iron fist between 1962 and the start of reforms in 2011 under Thein Sein’s quasi-civilian administration.

Welcoming a new age of full civilian government, the bespectacled new president pledged to be “faithful to the people of the republic of the union of Myanmar”. “I will uphold and abide by the constitution and its laws. I will carry out my responsibilities uprightly and to the best of my ability,” the 69-year-old Myanmar’s new president Htin Kyaw and National League for Democracy party leader Aung San Suu Kyi arrive at union parliament in Naypyitaw March 30. told the chamber.

‘Democratic standards’ mocracy, joins that same such change. He gave no recent years.

President pledges to strive for peace & reconciliation

Nay pyi Taw, March 30 (iaNS): Myanmar’s new President U Htin Kyaw pledged on Wednesday to implement four goals based on the policies of the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD), led by Aung San Suu Kyi. U Htin Kyaw made the pledge in his first address to parliament after his government cabinet was sworn in earlier in the day, Xinhua reported. He said that his government will strive for national reconciliation, nationwide peace, emergence of a federal union and raising of living standard of the people.

He promised to implement the political objectives with perseverance. He added that his cabinet is responsible for fulfilling the people’s expectations to produce a constitution which is in accord with the democratic standard of the country.

am also remembering my colleagues who sacrificed for this battle (for democracy),” said NLD lawmaker Aye Naing.

Among a smattering of NLD supporters outside parliament, Yin Myint May welcomed the handover.

“It is the biggest day for us,” she said. “Remember we started (the democracy fight) in 1990,” she added, referring to elections won

In a later ceremony at the presidential palace, Thein Sein symbolically handed over to his successor as a smiling Suu Kyi looked on. But the army is far from leaving the political scene. The military holds a quarter of all parliamentary seats and three key posts in the cabinet.

Suu Kyi, the standardbearer of the fight for de-

cabinet holding a clutch of positions including foreign minister.

In a speech later in the day Htin Kyaw signaled the NLD would continue its long-stated vow to amend the constitution to bring it up to “democratic standards” -- no small order given that the military’s bloc in parliament gives it an effective veto on any

details.

Expectations run high among Myanmar’s 51 million people but the new government faces a steep task. Revolts still rage in ethnic minority borderlands, poverty is widespread and the military holds huge political and economic power. Sectarian tensions and anti-Muslim sentiment have flared in

the post of constable.

Of the nine accused which include five male and four female, Kohima Police identified one Aosenla Chang, a resident of New Reserve, Kohima as the main accused.

The co-accused were identified as Medemyanger, a resident of Diphupar-B, Dimapur; Noklomeren Imsong from Diphupar-B, Dimapur, Yimlei Phom, C. Tiakaba, Kilamzaile @ Azai, Zachano @ Abeni Ngullie, Achila Kapfo, all residing in Chumukedima and Longpochang Ao from Paramedical, Kohima.

Police stated that during investigation it was ascertained that, a fake appointment order was delivered for an amount of Rs 2, 80,000/by forging the signature of the appointing authority. It is also learnt that, the amount was shared amongst some of the members of the racket mentioned above.

Further, police also ascertained that several deals were made by them in connivance with the main accused Aosenla Chang by charging several lakhs of rupees from gullible and aspirant candidates for the appointment to the post of con-

stable in Nagaland Police.

During house search and raids carried out at residences of main accused and other co-accused, several job applications along with educational certificates including two fake appointment orders and official seal of SP (Intelligence) Kohima was recovered.

In this connection, all the nine accused have been charged under various sections of law for committing Vermuelen, a coffee expert from South Africa along forgery, bribery and crimi- Pieter with officials of Land Resource Department at a press connal conspiracy. A criminal ference in Kohima on March 30. case has also been registered against them, the po- Morung Express News in Kohima village. The Himalayan region being one lice informed.

Kohima | March 30 of the most suitable regions A coffee expert from South for coffee plantation makes Africa thinks Nagaland has Nagaland a potential rethe potential to give coffee gion for coffee production.

In Nagaland there industries across the world are two varieties of coffee a run for their money. ist visitors both domesnamely Robusta coffee and “In the global market it tic and international was Arabica coffee. And within 1,72,013 and revenue col- (Nagaland) is a really small these varieties, consists of player but Nagaland has lected from entry tickets the potential for world con- numerous flavours differas per treasury challan tender in coffee industry,” ing from region to region. amounted to Rs 3,14,916, said Pieter Vermuelen, a Vermuelen had excellent which means only Rs 1.83 coffee expert from South Af- feedbacks to give on the cofpaise per head only was rica who is currently in Na- fee produced in Nagaland. collected.

The coffee tested in galand visiting coffee planThe PGD, NPCC said it tations in various districts Kigwema, according to is yet to receive the docu- and consulting the Depart- Vermuelen, has a ‘cashew ments pertaining to the ment of Land Resource on flowery flavor’ while a ‘citrus nutty taste’ coffee was years 2013 & 2015 from the coffee plantations.

Vermuelen was ad- tasted in Lita village which department. dressing a press confer- is very particular of the Hience held at the Land Re- malayan region.

In his 20 years of being sources Department office, in the coffee industry, VerKohima on March 30.

Vermuelen, who has muelen enthused that he Liremo Lotha, said installa- been working in the coffee has never tasted the flavor tion of CCTV would benefit industry for more than 20 of coffee found in Wokha the police in the investiga- years owns two companies village, which he described tion process. While assuring called The Himalaya Net- was ‘almond strawberry all possible assistance from work, a non-profit com- creamy flavor.’ Tasting is the police in redressing the pany in Nepal involved in very important in coffee industry, mentioned the cofproblems of the business the coffee industry, and a fee expert. corporate firm called the community, Liremo also “Nagaland has the poNoble Cause which aims sought cooperation to build to bring added value into tential to develop a susa better society. communities, to profit, and tainable economy, export Representatives from also develop farming com- coffee and take it to the ACAUT Nagaland, Naga munities. world. Almost a third of the Council Dimapur, Naga In his recent visit across world drinks coffee. This is Women Hoho Dimapur, Nagaland, Vermuelen one way of taking the Naga GBs’ Union, DUCCF and tasted a variety of coffee brand to the world. By takDNSU also spoke on the and inspected plantations. ing Nagaland’s coffee to the occasion.

From these observations, world, people will come to Installation of CCTV he noted that Nagaland has know of Nagaland and cofcameras in New Market the potential to produce fee enthusiasts can come was initiated by the Dima- some of the best coffee in and evaluate the way cofpur Chamber of Commerce the world. fee grows,” a clearly excited and Industries (DCCI) presCoffee plantation in Vermuelen stated. ident and New Market Busi- Nagaland dates back to The biggest challenge, ness Owners’ Association 1958 where coffee is first however, will be to teach president, Hokivi Chishi. said to have been planted Nagas the value of coffee,

‘Biggest day’

NLD lawmakers also have little practical experience of government. Some were jailed by the junta, including most famously Suu Kyi who was held under house arrest for s total of 15 years. But on a historic day the party faithful were undaunted by the challenges ahead. “I’m really happy. I

in a landslide by the NLD that were ignored by the junta.

The NLD has also hit stumbling blocks even before taking office. There are concerns over the cabinet line-up in which Suu Kyi is the only woman and the majority of members are in their 60s or older, despite representing one the region’s youngest populations.

Related story on page 9

BDS MDS Fake job racket busted, nine arrested Nagaland has potential to be world

Ph: 9412244680, 8006426860

SC approves guidelines to protect Good Samaritans

NEw dElhi, March 30 (pTi): The Supreme Court today approved the Centre’s guidelines to protect Good Samaritans, who help road accident victims, from being unnecessarily harassed by police or any other authority. A bench comprising justices V Gopala Gowda and Arun Mishra asked the central government to give wide publicity to these guidelines so that people who help others in the time of distress are not victimised by any authority. The bench also took on record the guidelines placed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways which were based on the recommendations of the three-member committee headed by former judge K S Radhakrishnan. The committee had given 12 major recommendations including setting up of State Road Safety Councils, evolving a protocol for identification of black spots, their removal and monitoring to see the effectiveness of the action taken.

Details on page 8

diMapUr, March 30 (MExN): Kohima Police have bused a fake job appointment racket and arrested nine people for cheating people on the pretext of recruiting them in State government jobs.

A press statement from PRO Kohima Police Atu Zumvu said the racket was busted on the basis of an FIR lodged at South Police Station, Kohima on March 23 by the official of Special Branch (PHQ) Kohima in connection to a fake appointment order issued to one Naga candidate of Paramedical, Kohima for

RTI disclosure on Hornbill Festival

diMapUr, March 30 (MExN): Nagaland Tourism Department spent Rs 11.95 crore in the celebration of Hornbill Festival during 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014 and earned only Rs 7.01 lakh as revenue resulting a public exchequer loss of Rs 11 crore, 87 lakh and 99 thousand only.

This was revealed by the department in reply to an RTI filed by the Na-

NPCC says public exchequer incurred a loss of Rs 11 crore, 87 lakh and 99 thousand in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014

galand Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) Public Grievances Department (PGD) pertaining to Hornbill Festival.

The PGD, NPCC also stated that the documents received from the Tourism Department for the year

2010, 2011 and 2012 did not contain record on Annual Percentage Record (APR) and entry fee, which is also considered as Government revenue.

For the year 2014, as per documents received, the total number of tour-

new Market now under cctV surveillance

To put criminal activities at bay, CCTV with police outpost in important locations in Dimapur soon: Patton Morung Express News Dimapur | March 30

C M Y K

Nagaland Home Minister Y Patton on Wednesday launched the installation of CCTV cameras at New Market, Dimapur, which is an initiative of New Market Business Owners’ Association.

With this element of protection against potential theft or criminal activity, business owners of New Market can now feel more

secure in conducting their daily business.

Patton, in his address, said criminals and anti-social elements have become experts in their profession with modern technologies, which have made business establishment, public places and residential homes more vulnerable to threats.

He said in such a situation, it was crucial to take security seriously. With crimes and burglary on the rise, Patton said it important to consider all the available security options.

In this context, Patton said one of the most popular and cost effective ways of providing security is CCTV cameras as it could act as successful deterrent to thieves and burglars.

He said the very presence of CCTV systems in place could make a wouldbe criminal think twice about any wrong doing because he would not want to rob or vandalise a store or office when he knew that his acts are being recorded.

Besides recording footage of criminals acts, CCTV could also keep employees away from mischief and also inculcate discipline, Patton asserted.

The Home Minister also revealed that Nagaland State government has plans to install CCTV cameras in strategic locations of the State particularly in major towns and locations to contain law and order situation as well as to check on criminal activities.

He expressed hope that the initiative of the New Market Business Owners’ Association (NMBOA) would tremendously lighten the burden of the district administration and police in curbing anti-social activities in future.

Patton also revealed that to put criminals and their activities at bay, installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras with police outposts in all important locations and colonies of Dimapur in the coming months is in the offing.

He further assured a police outpost in New Market within April 15 on the condition the business community provides space to house them.

Commissioner of Police,

contender in coffee industry: expert

noted Vermuelen while adding that Nagaland already has the infrastructure and the railway transport which is an additional benefit in making the task easier for export.

In Nagaland, coffee can be exported through railways to Kolkata which can further be shipped to other countries.

Vermuelen, sharing his connection with Nagaland, mentioned that his father was a missionary for the Nagas for more than 21 years.

Mathung Yanthan, Director, Land Resource Department, stated that in the 1980s coffee plantation was introduced however it failed miserably due to mismanagement, leading to coffee farmers to give up on the plantation.

“Every part of Nagaland is suitable for coffee plantation. We are still in the rudimentary stage,” stated Yanthan while discussing the comprehensive year plan of coffee plantations in Nagaland.

A five years comprehensive plan for development of coffee in Nagaland has been prepared for a total area of 5000 Ha covering all districts. 10,000 households have been identified for this plan which will be implemented in convergence with the Coffee Board of India. With an aim to export coffee in the future, Yanthan also noted that the core objective is to produce organic coffee.

Vermuelen also mentioned that the current international market are more focused on purchasing organic coffee, coffee that supports sustainable development, and coffee that contributes to fighting climate change.

Another Land Resource Department official mentioned that coffee plantation can be done without disturbing the ecology and can improve the economy.

Beneficiaries are identified on the basis of land availability and the interest of the farmers.

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thursDAY 31•03•2016

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Mayangnokcha GHSS gets Biotech Lab

Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Sushil Kumar Patel IAS inaugurates the biotechnology lab at Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School Mokokchung. (Morung Photo) Morung Express News Mokokchung | March 30

In a first in Mokokchung district, a biotechnology lab was inaugurated at Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School by the Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Sushil Kumar Patel IAS on March 30. The lab was sponsored by the Government of India’s Ministry of Science & Technology, Department of Biotechnology under its Biotech Labs at Senior Secondary Schools (BLiSS) program for North Eastern states of India.

The deputy commissioner while speaking at the launching ceremony appreciated the government of India for sponsoring the lab and emphasized that biotechnology is today one of the most sought after fields and that there is amble employment opportunity in biotechnology. He also expressed contentment that the lab was established in the platinum jubilee year of the school. It may be mentioned that Mayangnokcha

School is the oldest school in Mokokchung and the second in Nagaland, established 1941.

Other highlights of the programme included the principal of the school Arenla delivering the welcome address and a special number by students of the school. The event also saw a paper presentation on the topic ‘Introduction to plant tissue culture and bio technology’ by Prof. Dr. Chitta Ranjan Deb, Department of Botany, Nagaland University who is also the mentor of BLiSS program in the school.

Later, a workshop on the topic ‘prospects of ericulture in Nagaland’ was conducted by Dr. Merenjungla, Zoology department of the school. Science students of Queen Mary HSS and Senayangba GHSS also attended the programme today. It is learnt that Mayangnokcha GHSS and Dimapur GHSS were identified by an expert committee of the ministry for the establishment of the labs under

BLiSS program.

The lab inaugurated today is fully furnished with state of the art equipments and the school authority has informed that interested students and research scholars can have access to the facility. It is equipped with a binocular microscope and 15 compound microscopes, a bacteriological incubator and a hot air oven, laminar airflow cabinet, a digital PH meter as well as necessary chemicals and glassware. The lab is also equipped with computer along with internet connectivity.

Meanwhile, the convener of the school’s platinum jubilee planning committee and ADC Mokokchung, Bendanglila has informed that the jubilee celebrations would be held in the month of September. She also called upon all the alumni of the school to cooperate and contribute in all ways possible so as to make the jubilee celebrations a grand success and to usher the school to a higher level of excellence.

Farmers get cash relief for loss caused by wild elephant

Wokha, March 30 (MExN): Dr. T M Lotha, Adviser, Treasuries & Accounts, Relief and Rehabilitation, Government of Nagaland distributed cash relief to the affected farmers whose agricultural fields and properties were damaged by wild elephants at New Wokha Village on March 30 in the presence of district administration, Police, forests officials and NGOs. A press note stated that tpeaking at the brief programme hosted by the Tiyi Wildlife Conservation & Animal-Human Conflict Control Society at New Wokha Village, Dr. TM Lotha stated that the government had taken prompt action upon learning of the destruction caused by the wild elephants at New Wokha Village, and as the Local MLA, he himself had earlier taken a spot visit to

Dr. TM Lotha addresses the affected farmers during cash distribution programme at New Wokha Village.

the affected areas on September 24, 2015 along with district administration and forest officials. He appreciated A Robin Lotha, the Deputy Commissioner Wokha for taking proactive role in assisting the villagers during the conflict

and assessing the damage and reporting to the government for necessary compensation. He further stated that, since it’s a human-animal conflict, the department of forest and wildlife is the right department to provide relief and

rehabilitation; but as contingency relief, the government has sanctioned some money under his department despite budget constraints, keeping in mind the gravity of the situation.

He also appreciated Khyolamo Humtsoe,

Nagaland state far behind in digital initiative Digital literacy programme held at Kohima College kohiMa, March 30 (MExN): As a part of Digital India campaign a digital literacy programme was held at Kohima College with teaching faculties of the college.

Dr. Anirban gave a brief overview of the various easily accessible schemes available under the NDLM

and explained in practical terms how these can be used by beneficiaries. He made mention of the concerted efforts of the Government to provide free internet hotspots in order to access such services in all parts of the country; such being already in place in metropolitan areas. The State of Kerala, was made mention of as being the first 100% digitalised state in the whole of the country.

In comparison, Dr. An-

irban made mention that Nagaland state was far behind in the digital initiative; as there were very few people who were aware of the e- governance services and a much lesser number actually use these services. To this, he added as an example a National Scholarship scheme like the KVPY, which had only 10 applicants in 2015 session. Due to poor response, the exam centre for the said scheme in Nagaland was withdrawn, as a result of

which the centre was shifted to Guwahati.

In conclusion, he made an appeal to the participants to be aware of such developments and to spearhead a change in outlook and initiative, so as to compete and co-relate with the mainstream.

Dr Watijunshi Ao, Principal Kohima College delivered welcome address and Dr Koni, Asstt Professor Kohima College chaired the function.

Gobble down momos with a Naga flavour at Dzukou Youth Camp held at KPC Tsiesema head chef and owner of Dzukou Tribal Kitchen, Karen Yepthomi, told IANS. “Our attempt is to keep alive the flavours of the state in different cuisines. We keep doing different food events to invent new dishes,” added Yepthomi.

The finely minced chicken stuffing, wrapped warmly in a thin coat of wheat flour, largely enhancing the raja mircha flavour, is served along with spicy chutney again made with the naga mirchi.

The pork momos were more delicate and juicier with an added touch of coriander along with chutney topped over it. But the vegetarian momos kept pace with chicken and pork momos.

Equally mouth-watering, the veg momos had a combination of vegetables with rich raja mirchi.

The six pieces served in a plate Naga Mircha Momo fest at Dzukou Tribal Kitchen. (IANS Photo) are good enough to fill your tummy.

NEW DElhi, March 30 (iaNS): topped up with a sauce made from Save some space for water as that is Keeping alive the flavours of Naga- the most scorching chilly in the world required in large quantities as you land in momos, Dzukou Tribal Kitch- “Naga Raja Mircha”. tackle the raja mircha!

“Though momos are not originally en, a restaurant serving authentic naga cuisine, has organised the Naga a dish from northeast but people love FAQs: Raja Mircha Momo Festival in the na- it. I wanted to give a touch of Naga- Where: Dzukou Tribal Kitchen, Hauz land flavour to the momos. And what Khas Market. tional capital.

The festival offers hot momos better can be than the famous naga Festival on till 13th April. available in veg, chicken and pork raja mircha being added to the dish?” Price: Rs. 250 (Veg); Rs. 300 (Non-Veg)

Campers of the four day ‘Soul Ignite Youth Camp’ organised by the Koinonia Baptist Church from March 23 to 27 at Koinonia Prayer Centre (KPC) Tsiesema.

kohiMa, March 30 (MExN): A four day ‘Soul Ignite Youth Camp’ was organised by the Koinonia Baptist Church from March 23 to 27 at Koinonia Prayer Centre (KPC) Tsiesema with the theme ‘Jesus is alive’ Rev.1:18.

The speakers were Rev. Zotuo Kiewhuo, Senior Pastor, Medotseilie Asst. Pastor, Neibalie Asst. Pastor, Rokopra Asst. Pastor and Menuosielie, Evangelist.

Altogether 341 campers attended the camp where 34 recieved water baptism

while Many recieved Jesus Christ as their Personal Saviour. Campers have also received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, deliverance and healing experiencing the saving Grace of God. Lhouzakie Rutsa was the Camp Director.

Chairman, New Wokha Village and his team for coordinating with the government officials during the entire period of human elephant conflict, an effort of which has prevented human casualties. He further encouraged the villagers to venture into new and innovative farming practices for sustainable livelihood and economic prosperity, stating that it is time for the Nagas to venture into private sectors as employment in the public sector has reached a saturation point. A Robin Lotha, Deputy Commissioner Wokha also spoke on the programme. The meeting was chaired by Khyolamo Humtsoe and Zujabemo Lotha delivered the welcome address. Yingao Murry spoke on behalf of the affected farmers and Zaremo Murry pronounced the vote of thanks.

Phek farmers informed to form Village Farmers’ Unit

PhEk, March 30 (MExN): Phek District Farmers’ Union (PDFU) informs progressive farmers of every recognised village or town under Phek District to form the Village Farmers’ Unit (VFU) with one chairman, secretary and treasurer each. The unit are also informed to register all the interested/progressive farmers in their respective villages with a registration fee of Rs. 500/- (rupees five hundred) only per head for new membership and renewal Rs. 300/- (rupees three hundred) only per head for those who had registered in the past for a period of 3 (three) years i.e. 2016-2018. Last date of new registration/renewal of membership is on or before 15-04-2016.

PDFU President Khazi Lea in a press release stated that this was informed in reference to the earlier information through local dailies, the Phek District Farmers’ Union (PDFU) had already resolved on March 8, 2016 at its Head Office, Pfütsero.

The Union also added that this is mainly for a better co-ordination among the progressive farmer’s formation of Farmers Interest Groups (FIGs) and preparation of Detail Project Reports (DPRs) for onward submission to the concerned Ministry of Nagaland/India.

For further necessary information, contact President – 9862205112, General Secretary – 8731891705 and registrar – 8974323254.

KVK Wokha conducts Pre-Rabi Kisan Sanmelan Nagaland NCC senior cadets

Participants with others during the pre-rabi kisan sanmelan at Ralan area of Wokha district held on March 30.

Wokha, March 30 (MExN): Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Wokha, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland centre organised a Pre-Rabi Kisan Sanmelan at Ralan area of Wokha district on March 30 under the chairmanship of Dr. Santosh Kr. Baishya, Programme Coordinator, KVK Wokha. It was attended by 153 farmers from 14 villages of the district, and 14 officials from Sub Divisional Office (Civil), Ralan and KVK Wokha.

Dr. Baishya briefed about the importance of the programme for the farmers of the Wokha district. He explained the objective of the programme was to create awareness among the farmers on improved cultivation practices like suitable seed varieties and right sowing time for rabi crops. He also urged the farmers to adopt the technologies suitable to this area and to get benefit of newly started developmental scheme of central government i.e., Pradhan

Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana,, Soil Health Card, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, etc.

Thungchanbemo Tungoe, SDO (Civil) and Magistrate (Border), Ralan, guest of honour, emphasized the adoption of new technologies for improvement of production and productivity of crops which will enhance the livelihood of the farming community. He pointed out that about 95% of the people depend on agriculture and allied activities and hence it

is the need of the hour to provide quality seeds and planting materials to the farmers.

He also appreciated the activities undertaken by KVK Wokha for the benefits of the farmers.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sanjay Ray, Subject Matter Specialist (Soil Science) spoke at length about the importance of the soil testing and soil health card for the farmers. He emphasized that farmer should use nutrient as per test report provided in soil health

card and avoid excess use of chemical fertilizer and pesticides. Bendangla Imsong discussed about the package of practices for toria and lentil and also highlighted about the importance of Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Right Act (PPV & FRA).

An interaction meet of farmers with the scientists, subject matter specialist and development officers of line departments was also organized. During interaction session various problems and constraints related to agriculture and allied subject were discussed and accordingly suitable solutions were given to the farmers for enhancement of farm productivity. During the programme, two folders on “Soil sampling procedures for laboratory analysis” and “GIS and GPS based soil fertility map for Wokha district” were distributed to all the participants.

Earlier welcome address was delivered by Megokhono Meyase, Assistant Chief Technical Officer (ACTO) Horticulture and vote of thanks was proposed by Bendangla Imsong, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant breeding).

attend skiing course at J&K

NCC senior wing cadets who attended the Snow Skiing Course at Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, Gulmarg held from March 19 to 25.

kohiMa, March 30 (MExN): As part of the adventure training, six NCC senior wing cadets, sponsored

by NCC Group HQ Kohima, returned after attending the Snow Skiing Course at Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, Gulmarg from March 19 to 25.

Out of the six, JUO Vinuo Kense, Cadet Sentimeren Longkumer, Yipen Kikon, Lanutemsu Jamir belong to St Joseph College Jakhama while Sgt. Shayhunlo Tep belongs to Kohima College.

Sgt Mongkesekum Chang represented Fazl Ali College Mokokchung.

A press release stated that NCC Group HQ will be sending nearly 200 Cadets and teachers in 2016-17 to various parts of the country to attend mountaineering & skiing courses, Treks, Rifle Shooting courses, National and Special Integration Camps.

ThursDAY 31•03•2016

NORTH-EAST

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

3

Despite assurance by CM, 'Manipuri mother of fake encounter victim can approach HC' MHRC yet to be revived Iboyaima laithangbam IANS

Despite an assurance by Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh that a chairman for the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) would be appointed soon, no such step has been taken by the government.

The commission has been lying defunct since May 2010 with hundreds of complainants having nowhere to go.

The assurance during the budget session that ended on March 4 had raised hopes that the commission would start functioning within a few days.

The chief minister had said that preferably a retired high court judge would fill up the position.

Manipur, which has more than 50 armed groups operating in a state with a small population of 2.7 million, has always been a "conflict zone" since the 1970s.

According to an affidavit filed by human rights groups in the Supreme Court, at least 1,528 persons had become victims of the extra judicial executions in the state. The apex court, which had selected six sample cases out of the list, found that there was prima facie evidence to jus-

tify investigation.

Human rights activists say there was a glimmer of hope among the people when the state government set up the MHRC in 1998.

However, a deputy secretary of the MHRC wrote a letter to the National Human Rights Commission in October 2011 saying that "the MHRC is unable to take up any cases after May 9, 2010".

The government had apparently taken a decision not to send any case relating to the violation of human rights from that date. The matter came to light when the NHRC had forwarded a complaint for comments from the MHRC. The Asian Centre for Human Rights had filed a complaint with the NHRC on September 16, 2011, regarding alleged torture of Noor Kamal Sheikh. It said that police personnel at the Khudekpi outpost had arrested and tortured the victim on September 5.

Sources said that after the MHRC letter, the national commission and others had stopped forwarding anything to the MHRC, which then became largely defunct.

"There are many victims of excesses who cannot go to court or afford the fees of the lawyers. But

Sharmila acquitted in 2006 attempt to suicide case New DelhI, march 30 (pTI): Manipuri rights activist Irom Sharmila was today acquitted by a Delhi court in a 2006 case of attempt to suicide when she was undertaking a fast until death at Jantar Mantar here.

Metropolitan Magistrate Harvinder Singh let off 42-year- old Sharmila, who is on a fast for the last 16 years in Manipur demanding repeal of AFSPA. She was put on trial on March 4, 2013, for allegedly trying to commit suicide while undertaking fast-unto-death at Jantar Mantar on October 4, 2006.

She had yesterday told the court that she was ready to end her fast if the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) was repealed and expressed her desire to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue.

Sharmila, who is fed through a nasal tube, was put on trial after she refused to plead guilty to the charge of attempting to

Assam's unity under threat: Sonia Gandhi SIvaSagar, march 30 (IaNS): Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday said the unity and integrity of Assam is under threat as "two evil forces have united" against the Congress which had worked hard for the past 15 years to bring peace and prosperity to the state.

"The Congress government had worked very hard in the past 15 years to bring back peace and prosperity to Assam. However, the unity and integrity of the state is at stake now after two evil forces have joined hands in this election," said Gandhi, with apparent reference to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP).

She said the two forces were opposing the ruling Congress party as they know that all sections of the people in Assam are with it.

Gandhi addressed two public rallies in Assam on Wednesday, one at Aamguri in Sivasagar district and the other at Biswanath Chariali in Sonitpur district in Assam.

they could file their complaint on a plain paper without paying anything to the MHRC," noted human rights activists and lawyer Khaidem Mani told IANS. He said the Manipur government has not followed the guidelines in the past that the chairman should usually be a retired high court judge and that at least one retired high court or district and sessions court judge and a human rights activist with legal knowledge should be appointed as members.

"If the MHRC is revived it will be of immense help to poor sections of the people who are victims of senseless excesses of the state forces", Mani said.

In the absence of the state commision, people have to approach the high court where the cases keep piling up for months. The Manipur high court had summoned the chief secretary of Manipur, Oinam Nabakishore, about one and a half months back to explain when the commission would be revived.

The chief secretary had sought three months from the high court for the revival.

After the assurance by the chief minister in the Assembly, hopes were raised that a chairman for the

commission would be appointed soon after the budget session. But the hopes have now been belied.

In July 2009, there was a stand-off between the MHRC and some police officers relating to the killings of Thokchom Rabina and a former and unarmed insurgent Chungkham Sanjit in Imphal city. R.K. Rajendra, a member of the MHRC, had summoned the then police superintendent and the station house officer to appear before the commission.

The police officers refused to appear saying they were busy with the preparations of the police raising day. Eventually the NHRC had issued an arrest warrant with orders to produce the officers on September 25.

However the police asked the commission to drop the proceedings because a judicial commission had been set up to probe the incident.

Human rights activists say that the confrontation may have been the reason why the MHRC was rendered defunct. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, has been in force in Manipur since 1980.

(Iboyaima Laithangbam can be contacted at imphalreport@gmail.com)

gOveRNmeNT Of NAgALANd

diRecTORATe Of TecHNicAL educATiON

Imphal march 30 (IaNS): The district and sessions court here on Wednesday told Chungkham Taratombi, mother of Chungkham Sanjit, a victim of an alleged extra judicial killing, that she could approach the higher court if she so desired.

M. Manoj, judge of the District and Sessions court, Imphal west said it in his verdict. The mother filed a petition, seeking another investigation in the light of the confession by a police head constable Thounaojam Herojit that following orders of a superior officer he shot dead Sanjit, an unarmed former insurgent who was overpowered.

The ruling was given on the second and final day of hearing on Wednesday. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) counsel argued there was no need for further investigation. Taratombi in her petition pointed out that the head constable has publicly confessed to have killed

her son due to the order from a superior officer.

Judge Manoj said a trial is going on in his court. But it does not have jurisdiction over the matter prayed for. It may be recalled that eight other policemen are facing trial in connection with the killing of Sanjit on July 23, 2009 in the heart of Imphal city.

A pregnant woman, Thokchom Rabina who was walking with her young son, was also killed by a bullet which hit her on the forehead. Police have not been able to solve the mystery of where that bullet came from.

On January 25, Herojit told some reporters that he shot dead Sanjit inside a pharmacy on the orders of a superior officer. The officer implicated in the crime had denied the charge as "malicious, concocted and motivated". Herojit appeared in the court with his confession. He said, "I committed the crime and I am ready to accept any punishment".

Meanwhile, Babloo Loitongbam, the executive director of Human Rights Alert, deposed before judge Manoj that he had supplied the photographs which tend to establish that the unarmed Sanjit was accosted in the street, pushed inside a pharmacy and his dead body was dragged out after some minutes.

He said, "I gave the photographs to the Tehelka magazine. But as per request of the photographer I am not disclosing his name."

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had reacted to the confession of the fake encounter saying: "It is a serious matter and it would be looked into."

Kiren Rijiju, the minister of state for home, said, "My department will instruct the Manipur government to provide security to the head constable." Herojit, however, has not demanded any security guards and is staying on his own.

mAyANgNOkcHA gOveRNmeNT HigHeR SecONdARy ScHOOL mOkOkcHuNg, NAgALANd

oUR mEmoRABlE SCHool MGHSS Mkg. erstwhile Govt. High School, Mokokchung, will celebrate its Platinum Jubilee in September 2016.

To enable the participation of MGHSS Alumni residing within Dimapur Chumukedima area, the Jubilee Planning Board has entrusted the undersigned to convene a meeting of all the alumni to decide in what manner we can be a part of this auspicious occasion.

The said meeting is being convened on 02-04 2016 at 2:00pm in Hotel Saramati, NSA. For any queries please contact: 1.) Nungsang Aier - 9436002544 2.) L. Bendang Lemtur - 9436005697 3.) Dr. Khehokhu Chishi - 9436019221 4.) L. M. Merry - 9436002780 Sd/- Nungsang & Bendang, Convenor

kOHimA: NAgALANd

commit suicide (section 309 of IPC).

During final arguments yesterday, the prosecutor had contended that Sharmila had the intention to kill herself and the offence of trying to commit suicide was clearly made out against her.

During the hearing, the activist had said she loved her life and was using her fast as a weapon to achieve her goal of repealing AFSPA as it would have "more impact" and added that this was "not a crime".

She had earlier told the court that she was very much eager to eat if she got the assurance that the "draconian" law will be revoked. Widespread discrimination was being done with the people from Northeast, she had alleged, adding she never intended to commit suicide and it was just a protest against AFSPA. Known as the 'Iron Lady', Sharmila had earlier told the court that her protest was non-violent.

NotIFICAtIoN

(DIPlomA ENtRANCE EXAmINAtIoN 2016) NO.DTE/EXAM/6/2011-12: In continuation of this office Notification of even number dated: 20th February 2016, it is hereby informed that the last date for submission of filled application forms to the office of the Directorate of Technical Education is extended to 6th April 2016.

Prescribed application form of Diploma Entrance Examination for admission to 3-year Diploma courses within the state during the session 2016-17 is available in the office of the undersigned during office hours on working days.

Application form may also be downloaded from the website at http://www.dtenagaland.org.in Last date for submission of filled application form in the office of the undersigned is 06th April 2016.

Programmes offered in the Polytechnics:Required minimum Programmes offered Educational Qualification 1 Khelhoshe Civil Engineering Polytechnic, Electronics & Atoizu, Electrical Engineering (i) HSLC/10+ Zunheboto Mechanical passed with Engineering minimum aggregate of 45% Automobile in Mathematics Engineering & Science 2 Institute of Computer Engineering Communication Electronics & Commu(ii) Secured & Information nication Engineering Pass Marks in Technology, both MathematInformation Mokokchung ics & science Technology subjects 3 Government Computer Science Polytechnic, & Engineering Kohima Civil Engineering Modern Office Practice HSSLC/12+ passed with Fashion Design & minimum agApparel production gregate of 40%

Sl. No.

Name of Institute

(A. Kathipri) Director

Office Of THe

NAgA PeOPLe’S fRONT

WOmeN WiNg, PHek diviSiON, HQ. PHek

CoNgRAtUlAtoRY mESSAgE

With great pleasure and honour that the NPF Women Wing, Phek Division, conveys its heartiest congratulations to Shri. K G Kenye, Secretary General NPF, Central Office for being elected as Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) unopposed on 14th March 2016.

The Women Wing, Phek Division would like to acknowledge the wisdom and vision of Dr. Shurhozelie, the Hon’ble President of NPF, Central Office and Shri. T R Zeliang, the Hon’ble Chief Minister and all the rank and file of the party for recognizing his selfless services and sacrifices he has rendered for the party.

The Women Wing wishes him the very best as he embarks on new responsibility representing Nagaland and may the Almighty God grant him wisdom and understanding in his discharge of his new assignment.

Sd/R Sevo Khusoh, Asst. Press Secretary NPF, women wing, Phek Division

Vezovo (Nine) Swuro, President NPF women wing, Phek Division

A LecTuRe On

‘Human Rights in Naga Society: Today & Tomorrow’ Secretary General of the Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights, Neingulo Krome, and Principal of Japfü Christian College, Dr. Visakhonü Hibo, come together to discuss the notion of human rights today and tomorrow, to envision its future in Naga society.

Date : Saturday, April 2, 2016 Time : 1:30-3:30 pm Venue : DABA Elim Conference Hall, Duncan Bosti Limited Seats. Those interested to participate, kindly send us your name and phone number to:

 +91 (03862) 248854 @ morung@gmail.com The Morung Lectures is an initiative of The Morung for Indigenous Affairs & Just Peace, and The Morung Express

TRANSfORmATiON cRuSAde -2016 ACKNowlEDgEmENt

The Organizing Committee of Transformation Crusade praise and thank our Almighty (Jehovah) God for the successful 12 days Crusade held at Local ground (Khuochiezie), Kohima from 24th February - 6th March, 2016. This is the longest Crusade held in Nagaland, where about 40,000 peoples from all walks of life attended. Believers from Assam, Manipur and other States also attended, apart from the peoples of different districts of Nagaland.

By hearing the Confirmation Message (Mark 16:20) and exercising Faith in Action many received Spiritual and Physical Healings, Baptism of the Holy spirit , Deliverance, Salvation (including Non-Christian) and even more re-dedicated their lives to God. The Organizing Committee would like to acknowledge the following for supporting and contributing materially, financially, physically, prayerfully and all other logistic arrangements for the success of the Crusade. Words are unable to expressed our gratefulness. We pray that our Almighty God will continue to abundantly bless each one for all the good deeds for His Glory.

1. Deputy Commissioner, Kohima 2. Kohima Municipal Council and Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

3. PHED, Power Department, Home Guards Nagaland, Art & Culture Dept., Fire Brigades, 4th NAP, Thizama, etc.

4. The DD Channel, AIR, The Eastern Mirror, The Morung Express, The Nagaland Post, The Nagaland Page, Capi, Crystal Cable, Highland Dawn media, Koinonia Baptist Church media.

5. The 87 churches from different denominations.

6. Kohima Bible College.

7. All 29 Prayer Groups, Volunteers and Counselors of various churches and Fellowships from different districts.

8. Committee on Local Arrangements (COLA).

9. The Anointed Speakers, Pastors, Evangelists, Leaders, Pianists, Conductors & participants, Different Praise & Worship team.

10. Individuals and families. ** The Organizing Committee would like to request the NPSC Candidates who attended the Crusade and were blessed & succeeded in their competition to contact/give their name, Job, Phone No. and address for the glory of God. (Text to 9612198198) Organizing Committee, Transformation Crusade

4

ThursDAY 31•03•2016

Business

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Hyderabad man invents edible cutlery Mallya tells SC he will pay up Rs.4,000 cr MuMbai, March 30 (Deccan chronicle): Have you ever wondered if cutlery is harmful to your health?

They are, particularly the ones made of plastic.

Studies claim plastic products we use in our kitchen consist of polystyrene which discharges a chemical known as styrene, that could increase the risk of lymphoma and leukemia.

Meet Narayan Peesapaty, the founder and Managing Director of Bakey’s Food Private Limited from Hyderabad, the man who introduced edible cutlery to India.

Peesapaty realised how dangerous plastic is and came up with a plan.

He invented edible cutlery to replace the plastic ones.

You can eat your food with them, and then eat them too!

The products are made

new Delhi, March 30 (ianS): The Supreme Court was told on Wednesday that beleaguered liquor baron Vijay Mallya has offered to pay Rs.4,000 crore to settle outstanding dues against the grounded Kingfisher Airlines on account of loans extended by a consortium of 13 banks headed by the SBI. The apex court bench of Justice Kurien Joseph and Rohington F. Nariman was also told that Mallya had offered another Rs.2,000 crore that he expects to get if he wins his suit against multinational General Electric.

Narayan Peesapaty. (File Photo)

up of rice, ajwain, wheat, jowar flour, black pepper to and are made in different shapes and sizes. The interesting part about his invention is that this spoon doesn’t get soggy even in hot food and water.

Peesapaty told the Deccan Chronicle: “Tons and tons of rice rot every year in India. I had to do something. We first started making chopsticks with

rice and jowar and later produced spoons and forks.”

“I realised my main competition was plastic spoons because they were cheap. My spoons are Rs 2 each. However, I am working to bring the cost down to Rs 1.5 or even Re 1. If demand increases, prices will come down further.

I am looking forward to replacing plastic cutlery

used in small restaurants and railways with these edible ones,” says Narayan Peesapaty.

These cutlery can be used for eating anything. It will last till the end of your meal. They are ideal for teething babies too.

You can eat the spoons or throw them away. The product itself decomposes after five to six days if used.

It’s available in 3 flavours

sweet (little sugar), plain and spicy (with rock salt, black pepper, cumin seed and ajwain).

“These edible cutleries are chemical free.

There is no use of preservatives and can last up to 3 years in an unused condition. However, you need to make sure they are stored in air-tight boxes or packed properly,” adds Narayan Peesapaty.

Pele sues Samsung for Tata Steel looking to sell off UK operations MuMbai, March 30 (ianS): Having into the future and have significantly unauthorised use of his image suffered nearly $3 billion in losses on its UK impacted on the long term competitive

chicago, March 30 (ianS/eFe): Retired soccer great Pele has filed suit in a US federal court in Chicago against South Korean electronic giant Samsung for its use in an advertisement of the image of someone who resembles the Brazilian sports icon, his attorney reported on Tuesday.

Attorney Frederick J. Sperling, hired by the company handling Pele’s endorsement contracts, confirmed on Tuesday that the suit, filed at the beginning of the month, seeks “fair compensation”, the amount of which he did not specify.

“The goal is to obtain fair compensation for the unauthorised use of Pele’s identity and to prevent future unauthorised uses,” said Sperling.

Samsung, according to the suit, used the image of a man resembling Pele for an ad that appeared last October in The New York Times to promote television sales.

The retired athlete was negotiating with Samsung in late 2013 when “at the last minute, (Samsung) pulled out of the negotiations and never obtained the right to use Pele’s identity in any manner or in any format”, the suit says.

The suit says that the ad harms the value of the commercial rights of the 75-year-old Pele, who has signed agreements with top international companies such as Volkswagen, Subway, Emirates airline and Procter & Gamble.

Sperling is the same attorney who last August secured $8.9 million in a lawsuit over image rights for former basketball icon Michael Jordan against a supermarket chain.

Your smartphone to be your passport soon lonDon, March 30 (ianS): Forgot your passport on way to the airport? Relax as De La Rue, a Britain-based commercial banknote printer and passport manufacturer, is working on a technology that can store “paperless passports” in smartphones.

The technology would allow travellers to do without the booklets and switch to “paperless passports” that would act similar to mobile boarding cards enabling a tourist to travel through an airport without documents of any kind, the Telegraph reported.

“Paperless passports are one of many initiatives that we are currently looking at, but at the moment it is a concept that is at the very early stages of development,” a spokesman of the company was quoted as saying.

However, the potential for forgery, global barriers and the distinct possibility of losing one’s smartphone mean the security challenges present big hurdles, the report added.

“Digital passports on your phone will require new hardware on the device in order to securely store the electronic passport so it cannot be copied from the phone,” David Jevans from security company Proofpoint was quoted as saying.

“It will also have to be communicated wirelessly to passport readers, because doing it onscreen like an airline ticket QR code can be copied or spoofed, he added.

The “paperless passport” service is already under the testing mode.

operations, Tata Steel is exploring to put its entire portfolio there up for sale, some 10 years after it forayed into Europe by acquiring Anglo-Dutch Corus for over $8.1 billion). The decision comes less than a week after Tata Steel UK said it has reached an agreement to sell its Clydebridge and Dalzell steel facilities in Scotland to the local government, which will, in turn, hive it off to Liberty House, an international steel and non-ferrous metals group.

“The Tata Steel board today reviewed the recent performance of the European business of the, more specifically of Tata Steel UK. It noted with deep concern the deteriorating financial performance of the UK subsidiary in the last 12 months,” a company statement said.

“Following the strategic view taken by the Tata Steel Board regarding the UK business, it has advised the board of its European holding company, Tata Steel Europe, to explore all options for portfolio restructuring including potential divestment of Tata Steel UK, in whole or in parts.”

The company said while the global steel demand, especially in developed markets like Europe, has remained muted following the financial crisis of 2008, trading conditions in the UK and Europe have rapidly deteriorated more recently.

“These factors are likely to continue

position of the UK operations in spite of several initiatives undertaken by the management and the workers of the business in recent years,” it said. “Even under these adverse market conditions, Tata Steel group has extended substantial financial support to the UK business and suffered asset impairment of more than £2 billion in the last five years,” it said.

“Given the severity of the funding requirement in the foreseeable future, the Tata Steel Europe board will be advised to evaluate and implement the most feasible option in time bound manner.” The board also reviewed the proposed restructuring and transformation plan for strip products in UK prepared by the European subsidiary in consultation with an independent and internationally reputed consultancy firm.

The board, according to the company, came to a conclusion that the plan is unaffordable, needing material funding support in the next two years, in addition to significant capital over the long term.

Since the assumptions behind it are inherently risky, and its likelihood of delivery is highly uncertain, the board also concluded it will not be able to support the investments necessary to proceed with the proposed strip products UK transformation plan.

leisure

SUDOKU

India, World Bank sign $1.5 billion loan pact for Swachh Bharat Mission new Delhi, March 30 (PTi): Government and the World Bank today singed a $1.5 billion loan agreement for the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) to support India’s universal sanitation initiative. The pact for the SBM Support Operation Project is to help the government in its efforts to ensure that all citizens in the rural areas have access to improved sanitation with a focus on changing behaviour and eliminating the practice of open defecation by 2019. SBM is the country’s largest-ever drive to improve sanitation.

“The project will promote behaviour change among rural communities

Game Number # 3534

Answer Number # 3533

Musicals ANNIE

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ON ThE TOWN

CATS

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FIddLER ON ThE ROOF

CITY OF ANgELS

LITTLE ShOP OF hOR-

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SUTSAH CONFERENCE HALL Open from 1st to 30th April 2016 (FREE)

1. Conference 2. Meeting 3. Seminar 4. Prayer Meetings 5. Trainings Etc. Seating capacity 100 + PA, white Board, Projector etc. available. Toilets separate for Sara n Abram etc.

Free for seating for a period of one month.

Time: 8:00 Am to 16:00 Hrs. No smoking, drinking allowed. Any Damages will be charged. Snacks, Light refreshment may be on payment. Advance calling appreciated to avoid rush. managing director Sutsah Academy Thilixu B2 Dimapur 9436003037(M) dr.kiyekhuasumi@yahoo.com

E

N P T X R Y g I O d E O S Y g X N d Y S T m

need more than 60% of India’s population that resides in rural areas.

The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation (MDWS) will oversee and coordinate the project and support the participating states. Funds will also be used to develop the capacity of MDWS in programme management, advocacy, monitoring and evaluation.

Affiliated to Nagaland University Near BSF Camp, below ATI Office

ACROSS 1. Bit of dust 5. Indian prince 10. Fix 14. Pinnacle 15. Run away to wed 16. Two-toed sloth 17. Jump 18. A pungent herb 20. To that extent 22. Welcome mat 23. Neither ___ 24. knells 25. Addictions 32. Flip over 33. European blackbird 34. Flee 37. Encounter 38. Scattered, as seed 39. Large 40. Liveliness 41. Carries 42. measuring instruments 43. Without protection 45. A kind of macaw 49. Zero 50. Pubescence 53. Footstool 57. A diplomat of the highest rank 59. Rouse 60. Space 61. Slack-jawed 62. goddess of discord 63. Anagram of “Star” 64. Washing machine cycle 65. Fender blemish DOWN 1. A landlocked African republic 2. Not closed 3. Popular hot beverages 4. Advocate 5. Anagram of “Warder” 6. Winglike 7. Scribble 8. Copied

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and help accelerate results in India’s states by giving performance-based incentives,” said Raj Kumar, Joint Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs. The loan agreement for the project was signed

by Kumar on behalf of the government and Onno Ruhl, World Bank Country Director, India on behalf of the World Bank.

Specifically, the project will support the rural component, known as SBM Gramin (SBM-G), over a 5-year period using a new performance-based programme which links funds directly to results, ensuring that benefits are delivered to the people in

MOUNTAIN VIEW CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

Daily Cross WorD

CROSSWORD # 3548

Mallya’s counsel said the proposal for the payment of Rs.4,000 crore by September was made to the chief general manager of the State Bank of India (SBI).

The SBI told the court that it needed a week’s time to consider the proposal made

by Mallya, and submitted that way back in 2013 the bank had filed a suit claiming Rs.6,903 crore plus interest thereon.

In a query from the bank about Mallya’s location, his counsel told the court that he was still abroad but had two video conferencing sessions with the bank officials after his departure from India to London.

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CURRENCY NOTES

222246 222491

BUY(Rs)

SELL(Rs)

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

65.03 92.48 8.11 49.08 47.42 49.22 56.96

67.96 96.96 9.03 51.50 49.75 51.62 60.18

Euro

72.71

76.23

Thai Baht Korean Won UAE Dirham (AED) Chinese Yuan

1.78

1.98

0.0541

0.0603

17.13

19.08

9.66

10.76

ThursdAY 31•03•2016

NAGALAND

Affairs dept for gender BJP says public misinformed Municipal inclusiveness in work places on its secular features, policies Kohima, march 30 (mExN): BJP Nagaland President Visasolie Lhoungu has noted that the party’s performance in the state elections has gradually been dismal owing to public misgivings about the party’s policies and intent. Speaking at the party’s first State Executive Meeting 2016 held on March 29 at Hotel De Oriental Grand here, he asserted there is much need for confidence building of party policies and programmes among the people with the message of the party’s objective that is to “build up India as a strong and prosperous nation, which is modern, progressive and enlightened in outlook”. He further said that BJP members should

adhere to the party’s objectives to “bear true faith and allegiance to the constitution of India as by law established and to the principles of socialism and democracy” while upholding the “sovereignty, unity and integrity of India”. Pointing out the disparities of Nagaland culturally and geographically, Visasolie said that the disparities should be “our” strength and used not to foster differences among different communities but to assure equitable focus in all areas needing attention and make the state at par with the best developed states.

During discussion house, the BJP Nagaland unit officials expressed resentment at “public’s ignorance and

doubts of the party’s secular features, policy and programmes due to misinformation by vested interests.”

The members stated that cow slaughter for instance is a state subject under the 7th Schedule and has been in force in several states in varying ways, including Assam in North East, since 1947 and not the legislation of the BJPled NDA government.

“On secularism too, the party is totally committed, but party members regretted the unreasonable doubts cast on the party causing hurdles in the developmental policies and efforts of the party,” stated a press release from BJP Nagaland (Media) General Secretary, Jaangsillung Gonmei.

MTLT demands 24x7 power supply in Mokokchung Town moKoKchuNg, march 30 (mExN): The Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjem (MTLT) has demanded 24x7 power supply in Mokokchung Town given the fact that the citizens are paying the bills regularly. Besides, it stated that the power allotment must be in proportion to the payment of the bills.

The demands were made during the MTLT meeting with the Power Department and PHED of Mokokchung respectively on March 28 to take stock of the power and water supply in Mokokchung Town.

A press release from Media Cell, MTLT informed that the Telongjem highlighted some key points to the Power Department with regard to the power supply in the town.

The reason for meeting the department was to make

aware of the constant power fluctuations in the recent past. The MTLT hoped that the Power Department will heed the demands of the citizens of the town immediately.

The MTLT also discussed important concerns with the Executive Engineer, PHED, Mokokchung, who highlighted the projects of the Department to ensure proper water supply to the citizens in town. The department is working to take stock of the damaged pipes along the Techipami source, the release said.

In the meantime, the Executive Engineer said that the department is initiating short-term relief water supply to meet immediate needs like bore wells and water tankers and such projects have already been submitted to the higher authority for approval.

Financial literacy and livelihood project programme at Chedema chEDEma, march 30 (mExN): The Nagaland Rural Bank, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and Nagaland State Social Welfare Board in collaboration with the State Resource Centre for Women (SRCW) conducted financial literacy and other livelihood project programme at Malo-o Stadium, Chedema on March 29.

The programme started with an exhortation by R. Juliana Medom, Assistant State Coordinator of SRCW, who encouraged the gathering to avail the best of bank services. She insisted that since the resource persons have come to the village, the participants should actively participate and have a clear understanding of the importance of being financially literate.

Manoj Chetri, Branch Manager, Nagaland Rural Bank, Kohima stressing on financial literacy elaborated on schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana etc. All schemes are connected to the bank account therefore

it is necessary to have a bank account, he said.

Luviheno Punyu, Assistant Manager, Nagaland Rural Bank, Kohima explained about the processes of opening a bank account and also about the LPG subsidy.

Assistant General Manager, NABARD, Bendang Aier encouraged the villagers to have healthy relationship with the banks.

He said the banks are there to help them but they have to participate in the banking processes by maintaining the habit of saving in the banks. Dispelling the myth that one’s money is not safe in the bank, he said that RBI regulates the activity of the banks so if they deposit their money in the bank they are not only saving but they will also get interest for the savings. He further highlighted the livelihood interventions such as dairy and piggery that NABARD have been implementing through SHGs and JLGs. Nari Ki Caupal, an interactive session with the women SHGs, was also conducted. Forms for opening bank accounts were also distributed.

NSCB branch offices told to follow transaction hours strictly DimaPur, march 30 (DiPr): Managing Director, Nagaland State Co-operative Bank Ltd. (NSCB Ltd) Imtilemba has reminded all NSCB Branch offices in the state to strictly comply with its transactions hours from 10:00 am to 3:00 am on all working days with immediate effect. The order has been issued following observation that Branch offices are not complying with the headquarters directive to follow the transaction timing of the State Bank of India and other commercial banks.

Imtilemba observed that public transactions are being closed well ahead of the time by branch offices thereby causing undue harassment to the general public.

The order issued on March 22, 2016 further directed all branches to uniformly mark day end at 4:00 pm to enable Head of the Branch offices to proceed for day end without any hindrance. He said any deviation from the above directives will invite stern action against the Branch in-Charge.

The MTLT expressed pleasure that the PHED, Mokokchung is taking steps to solve the water requirements in the town. Accordingly, the MTLT impressed upon the Government of Nagaland to speed up the process of completion of such projects. The organisation further demanded that there must be no charge, which is Rs 30, when there is no water supply.

The BJP leaders also expressed it was ironical to note that while the Central BJP leaders were “expecting good Christians to politically lead and bring about positive changes in the society, particularly the state, the people are blinded with doubts and fears that the party is all out to hindunise the people.” The party leaders appealed to the people to live with facts and faith and not be misled by hypocrisy, falsehood and lies. They also voiced for positive changes within the party for speedy development of the society at large, the release said.

Imtilemba Sangtam, Advisor and Chairman MARCOFED, spoke of the

party’s commitment to equitable development within the party and subsequently the society at large which is facing problems of forging ahead in terms of all round development.

Jaangsillung Gonmei, General Secretary, presented the Annual Organisational report which highlighted the party’s policy, programmes and activities of the one year.

H.K. Khulu, Convenor, laid out the action plans for the party covering several aspects of the party’s growth and development organizationally and politically. He presented the party’s action oriented goals and the means to achieve them.

To construct women rest room with basic necessities for infant child & working mother at Directorate Our Correspondent Kohima | March 30

The state’s Department of Municipal Affairs in the Annual Plan has proposed for gender inclusiveness in the work places by providing conducive environment, especially to young mothers who are vulnerable with infant child.

Unlike the Central provisions of 6 months maternity leave and an additional child care leave provisions upto 2 years, the State government at present could afford only 3 months maternity leave for such group of people, according to the annual administrative re-

GPRN/NSCN Budget session concludes Ato Kilonser N Kitovi Zhimomi declares 2016-17 as year of ‘Commitment towards the Nation’ DimaPur, march 30 (mExN): The two-day Tatar Hoho cum Budget session of GPRN/NSCN, which began on March 29, concluded sine die on March 30.

Addressing the august house, GPRN/NSCN President Gen. Rtd MB Neokpao stated that the most essential source to run a

government is its financial capacity. Asserting that any development or any advancement will take place only when the nation is financially capable, he said “therefore it will be the duty of all the members to see that every income and expenditure of national treasure is accountable and transparent.” He added, “A nation

cannot be beggars and dependent, no matter how hard a task is, we will have to strive forward with dignity and responsibilities.”

Meanwhile, Ato Kilonser N Kitovi Zhimomi declared that 2016-17 will be a year of “Commitment towards the Nation”, informed a press release issued by MIP, GPRN/NSCN.

port 2015-16 of the Municipal Affairs Department.

The report stated that this has affected gravely upon the productivity index in the state government working establishments. The working hours and the concentration ratio of young mothers are impacted upon as they often require attending to infant care.

It also cited that international studies have indicated that the child of an educated mother develops and performs superior mental and intellectual

developments than those of uneducated mother.

Hence, the care towards such infant and the mother would weave quality fabric towards the development of the state, the report stated.

“Therefore, to address this issue and create an encouraging working atmosphere to such group of women, the department is initiating to construct a women rest room installed with basic necessities for infant child and working mother at the Directorate office,” the report stated.

MEx FILE GTs of Tuensang district meeting TuENsaNg, march 30 (mExN): An emergency meeting of all the regular Graduate Teachers of Tuensang district has been convened on April 2, 10:00 am at GHSS Tuensang auditorium. Therefore, all the concerned teachers have been requested to attend the meeting without fail as the meeting has been convened to discuss the ongoing court case pertaining to GTs Seniority List. This was informed in a press release issued

by Nungsang Chang, Convener, Tuensang District GT Seniority List Preparation.

KMC reminds street vendors in Kma

march 30 (mExN): The Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) has reminded and informed all the street vendors for the final time that vending on public paths/streets is improper and illegal. “Such activities shall henceforth be dealt with all seriousness invoking the appropriate legal provisions,” a press release from KMC stated. In this connection, all the street vendors have been directed to desist from undertaking such activities with immediate effect.

The release also stated that alternative vending areas have been provided at KMC market area at Keziekie and the AMK Complex near DC office. To further facilitate such traders, vending fees are also being made free for a few cers of technical education months, the release added. department, and issuance of notification with new guidelines for selection Mangkolemba SDPDB meeting against state reserved seats. maNgKolEmba, march 30 (DiPr): The monthIn this connection, the ly Mangkolemba SDPDB meeting for the month of April office of the ANCSU re- will be held on April 6 at 11:00 am in the ADC office. solved that it will extend its Chairman SDPDB has directed all the members to atsupport to the government tend the meeting without fail. Further, any agenda to be for amalgamation process discussed should be submitted to the Vice Chairman and closely monitor the SDPDB on or before April 5. process of taking disciplinary action against the erring Meeting on NERP in Dimapur officials till logical end.

DimaPur, march 30 (DiPr): In connection with the ensuing National Electoral Roll Purification, 2016, a meeting with the representatives of recognized political parties and NGOs/CSOs would be held on April 2 North Field School Kohima, at 11:00 am in the conference hall of the Deputy ComAndrew Ahoto, Proprietor, missioner Dimapur. DC Dimapur has requested all conLivingstone HSS Dimapur, cerned to attend the meeting positively.

Rev. Dr. P. Dozo, Director, Himalayan Outreach Mis- NSSATA Wokha unit general meeting sion, Rev. Dr. Rabi Pame, Principal, United College WoKha, march 30 (mExN): The Nagaland SSA of Theology and Mission, Teachers’ Association (NSSATA), Wokha unit will be Pastor Mongzeung Mpom, holding a general meeting for the betterment of SSA Main Pastor, Jalukie Town teachers’ service conditions, according to a press reBaptist Church, Fr. Kurian lease received here. The meeting will be held separately Kakto, Dean of Academic, for members under the establishment of SDEO Wokha St. Xavier HSS, Jalukie, and and SDEO Bhandari. The SSA teachers under SDEO Rev. H.M. Gonmei, Execu- Wokha will meet on April 2, 10:00 am at Don Bosco tive Secretary, Rongmei Higher Secondary School, Wokha. For members under the establishment of SDEO Bhandari, the meeting will Baptist Association.

Praise & worship team be held on April 8, 2016 at ADC conference hall, Bhaninclude CCC Worship Chu- dari at 12:00 pm. All the members have been requested mukedima and SSC Pre- to attend the said meeting. launch Mobiliser’s Worship Team.

Yollow to inaugurate Wakching

ANCSU rejects govt decision on eligibility category of Nagaland state reserved quota DimaPur, march 30 (mExN): The All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) has stated that it does not accept the March 16, 2016 notification issued by the Nagaland Government on the eligibility category with reference to the new guidelines on State reserved quota.

In a written reply to the Chief Minister, ANCSU president Zhoku Thuluo

and general secretary Benjong Longchar pointed out that despite emphasizing on the authentication of the true identity of candidates before allocating seats in the technical, medical and other allied courses, there have been “instances where the concerned department had selected many candidates of doubtful identity by producing false and manipulated documents for avail-

ing seats reserved for state reserved quota.”

At the same time, the students’ body also acknowledged the decisions taken by the government which include the constitution of a committee to examine the matter of amalgamation of the technical education department with Higher Education, show cause notice served to the erring offi-

Students’ Spiritual Conference underway in Jalukie JaluKiE, march 30 (DiPr): Students’ Spiritual Conference began in Jalukie on March 30, where Executive Secretary of ZBCC, Rev. Izieteulung Terieng unfurled the flag. The conference, being attended by more than 2500 students (Class 8 to 12) from 19 schools, will continue till April 1.

The programme is aimed at providing ‘Spiritual Fooding’ with the theme ‘Save our generation’. Rev. Ketuo Theünuo (team leader SSC, Nagaland) in his Introductory note stated that schools are the hotspots of breeding ground for all unwanted behaviours like in-

discipline, moral degradation, drug addiction, drop out and alcoholism despite the purpose for which they were sent to schools.

The message of the Chief Minister of Nagaland TR Zeliang was read out by Pastor Mongzeum Mpom. The Chief Minsiter encouraged the students to be more dedicated, disciplined and hard working to achieve their goals. He also urged the students to prepare their own destination while learning.

Welcome address was delivered by Pastor Mongzeung Mpom, Convenor, Students’ Spiritual Confer-

ence Organizing Committee, Jalukie Town and choral presentation was made by St. Xavier Higher Secondary School and Christian School Choir, Jalukie. Conference speakers include Rev. Ketou Theünou, President, Cross Wonder Ministries, Rev. Dr. Tseibu Rutsa, President, Leader for Christ Intl. USA, Rev. Moa Longchari, Senior Pastor, Baptist Mission Church Kohima.

Resource persons are Rev. Dirang Lungalang, President, Christian Minister’s Covenant, Nagaland, Akok Walling, Principal, Dimapur Govt. College, Apfhelie Kesiezie, Proprietor,

Farmers encouraged to register native crop varieties PhEK, march 30 (mExN): Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Phek organised awareness cum training programme on ‘Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights’ on March 29 at Oasis Resource Centre, Sekruzu Town, Chozuba.

A press release from KVK Phek stated that in order to provide effective system for the protection of plant varieties, the rights of farmers and plant breeders and to encourage the development of new varieties of plants, it has been considered necessary to recognize and to protect the rights of the farmers in respect of their contributions made at any time in conserving, improving and making available plant genetic resources for the development of new plant varieties. The Government of India enacted ‘The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPV&FR) Act, 2001’, which recognizes the contributions of both commercial plant breeders

Anghban Ban Moh Taitüm

Kohima, march 30 (mExN): Parliamentary Secretary for CAWD, YM Yollow will inaugurate Wakching Anghban Ban Moh Taitüm as chief guest on April 2, 10:30 am under the Act. Stressing on at Anghban Banshuo. Yollow will also inaugurate Tanhai the importance of integrated farming system for sus- Yalam Wangheang (Pan) on April 6 at 9:00 am. tainable production in the event of climate change, he also advised the participating farmers to abstain from burning of jungles.

Chumbenthung, EAC Sekruzu, told the farmers about the importance of registering the plant varieties as m o K o K c h u N g , Class X are eligible. (b) One Class X (ten) that will ensure their rights march 30 (mExN): scholarship; non-Aos Lenjeter, a monthly Ao over their treasured genetic studying Ao subject in magazine, has announced material. He called upon the Class X are eligible. scholarships for students farmers to relay the infor(c) One BA (Ao) 3rd and mation to their fellow farm- studying in Nagaland. One 4th semester scholarship; of the objectives of the magers in the greater interest of students who are appearazine is to promote and the agrarian community.

The rights granted under the work towards the develop- ing the 2nd semester exam Act were briefly explained by ment of the indigenous lan- and who will be studying Esther T. Longkumer, ACTO, guages of Nagaland. Along Ao in 3rd and 4th semester this path, the magazine can apply.

KVK Phek. (d) One BA (Tenyidie) An exhibition of lo- has decided to award five cal plant varieties was also students a scholarship of 3rd and 4th scholarship; organised during the pro- Rs 500/- per month for an Tenyidie students who are appearing the 2nd semesgramme, where about 26 academic year.

The scholarship for ter exam can apply. farmers from six villages, The application form namely Phugü, Zulhami, 2016-2017 is divided into and instructions will be Ruzhazu, Khutsa, Thürtsusü following categories: and Sekruzu, brought their (a) Two Class X (ten) published in the forthexhibits and displayed the scholarships; students coming Lenjeter magazine uniqueness of the varieties. studying Ao subject in (April issue).

Lenjeter Ao magazine announces scholarships

Products of farmers exhibited at the programme organised by KVK Phek at Sekruzu Town on March 29.

and farmers in plant breeding activity that supports the specific socio-economic interests of all the stakeholders including private, public sectors and research institutions, as well as resourceconstrained farmers.

The programme at Sekruzu Town was graced by Hewoto Sema, District Agriculture Officer (DAO), Phek and Chumbenthung Murry, EAC Sekruzu, Phek.

The DAO Phek briefed the farmers about the traditional agricultural practices of Phek and the prospects of growth in the field of agriculture. He explained about the rich biodiversity of Phek district and emphasized on conservation of the same. He further encouraged farmers to register their native varieties of pulses, cereals and other horticultural crops notified

thursDAY 31•03•2016

IN FOCUS

6

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express volume Xi issue 87

By Aheli moitra

A new literature of reality

O

nce, on a journey between borderlands, I met the wife of a popular Tangkhul singer at their home, busy weaving the Rose kashan—a mekhala, or traditional wrap-around, dedicated to the memory of

NS Rose.

In March 1974, Rose committed suicide in her village, Ngaprum, in Ukhrul, after being sexually assaulted repeatedly by members of the Indian security forces.

Following the incident, Tangkhul women weavers designed the Rose kashan to dedicate the weave to her memory—to mark in their literary tradition the culture of human rights abuse that had come with the war.

In the 1980s, the stories repeated themselves and so did the literature.

1986 saw the fatal shooting of Luingamla from Ngainga village inside her home, also by members of Indian security forces. She was sexually attacked first. The Luingamla kashan was designed by a Tangkhul woman weaver, and approved and promoted by the Tangkhul Shanao Long (Tangkhul Women’s Union) in the 1990s as a traditional wear for Naga women.

The red, white, green and black kashan is a tragic, but fiery, reminder of the sexual oppression faced by Naga women— the story is woven through generations, passed on necessarily, creatively and with bravado intricately designed by an organic women’s movement for peace.

Stories were always woven into the kashan, or the mekhala. The literature of the weaves reflected, previously, the fields, crops, seasons, rituals, relationships and many more aspects of lived reality. Today, Luingamla’s, as well as the Naga peoples’, story is immortalised also through women’s traditional jewellery that was designed and promoted in her memory. To understand the patterns on the weaves, or the jewellery, one has to understand the motifs and hear the story. The works create the rich imaginative experience—through visual and oral narration—that, in some ways, the reader of a novel goes through when s/he understands the nuances of the language deployed.

At a recent colloquium on Naga oral and literary traditions, held in Bhopal, Professor Temsula Ao noted how the Naga people “exist within the ambit of our languages which defines the significance of being what we are.”

In a moving observation, she said that today, writing has become primary and the orality of language discarded as a relic of the past. For her, the literature of the Naga people lay in the spoken language, history, customs, beliefs, stories, legends, myths, lore of migration and settlement, arts, crafts, and every small detail of everyday lives. “Literature resides in the traditions which constitute our primary literature.”

Through the weaving of contemporary stories into kashans, Naga women in the Tangkhul country have shown how these traditions have not been relegated to the past. In a world where written literature has made individual credit (for the writer) a norm, the literature produced by the weaves belongs to the community—everyone has ownership over them, and can learn, reproduce and share them.

It is young Naga women at the forefront of this literary tradition. As the Professor noted, the youth today is “creating a new literature of reality, fusing their modernity with new insights from their past;” no doubt bringing new meaning to the present, to be handed over to the future.

Ideas may be shared at moitramail@yahoo.com

lEfT WING |

Russ Wellen Foreign Policy in Focus

Where Is Gorbachev When You Need Him? Not only Russia, but the United States could take a few cues from Mikhail Gorbachev’s approach to national security

I

t’s odd how the name of Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union (chairman, general secretary of the Communist party, and president) fails to be included in the list of great statesman of the twentieth century. Nor has anyone comparable appeared on the international scene in the twenty-first century. In tandem with instituting glasnost and perestroika, he reduced the Communist party’s role in running the economy. Perhaps the chaos that followed explains the reluctance from giving him full credit for his accomplishments.

But from the standpoint of those to whom foreign policy, as well as nuclear weapons, is paramount, Gorbachev was incomparable. In their book We All Lost the Cold War (Princeton University Press, 1994), about which I recently posted, Richard Ned Lebow and Janice Gross Stein explain how he attempted and, to a large part, succeeded in re-orienting Russia’s relationship with the West.

Gorbachev and his closest advisors rejected the traditional Soviet approach to security. In their view, it had helped to create and sustain the Cold War and had placed a heavy burden on the Soviet economy. Perestroichiks were especially critical of the domestic consequences of postwar Soviet foreign policy….

Gorbachev’s vision of Soviet security was cooperative rather than competitive. He … repudiated the class basis of international relations that had dominated Soviet thinking about security since the Soviet state was created. … “New thinking” about security was based on five related propositions: the primacy of universal “all-human” values over class conflict; the interdependence of all nations; the impossibility of achieving victory in nuclear or large-scale conventional war; the need to seek security in political and economic rather than military terms; and the belief that neither Soviet nor Western security could be achieved unilaterally. Gorbachev called for the development of “a new security model” based on “a policy of compromise” among former adversaries. National security was to be replaced by a “common, indivisible security, the same for all.” The goal of the Soviet Union was to join a “common European house” that would foster security and prosperity through “a policy of cooperation based on mutual trust.”

Then, of course, at the 1986 Reykjavik summit he went on to propose the elimination of all nuclear weapons over the course of a decade, though, for President Ronald Reagan that was a bridge — to peace — too far.

C O M M E N T A R Y

Anthony Banbury NY Times

I Love the UN, but It Is Failing

I

HAVE worked for the United Nations for most of the last three decades. I was a human rights officer in Haiti in the 1990s and served in the former Yugoslavia during the Srebrenica genocide. I helped lead the response to the Indian Ocean tsunami and the Haitian earthquake, planned the mission to eliminate Syrian chemical weapons, and most recently led the Ebola mission in West Africa. I care deeply for the principles the United Nations is designed to uphold.

And that’s why I have decided to leave.

The world faces a range of terrifying crises, from the threat of climate change to terrorist breeding grounds in places like Syria, Iraq and Somalia. The United Nations is uniquely placed to meet these challenges, and it is doing invaluable work, like protecting civilians and delivering humanitarian aid in South Sudan and elsewhere. But in terms of its overall mission, thanks to colossal mismanagement, the United Nations is failing.

Six years ago, I became an assistant secretary general, posted to the headquarters in New York. I was no stranger to red tape, but I was unprepared for the blur of Orwellian admonitions and Carrollian logic that govern the place. If you locked a team of evil geniuses in a laboratory, they could not design a bureaucracy so maddeningly complex, requiring so much effort but in the end incapable of delivering the intended result. The system is a black hole into which disappear countless tax dollars and human aspirations, never to be seen again.

The first major problem is a sclerotic personnel system. The United Nations needs to be able to attract and quickly deploy the world’s best talent. And yet, it takes on average 213 days to recruit someone.

In January, to the horror of many, the Department of Management imposed a new recruitment system that is likely to increase the delay to over a year.

During the Ebola epidemic, I was desperate to get qualified people on the ground, and yet I was told that a staff member working in South Sudan could not travel to our headquarters in Accra, Ghana, until she received a new medical clearance. We were fighting a disease that killed many thousands and risked spinning out of control and yet we spent weeks waiting for a healthy colleague to get her forms processed.

Too often, the only way to speed things up is to break the rules. That’s what I did in Accra when I hired an anthropologist as an independent contractor. She turned out to be worth her weight in gold. Unsafe burial practices were responsible for about half of new Ebola cases in some areas. We had to understand these traditions before we could persuade people to change them. As far as I know, no United Nations mission had ever had an anthropologist on staff before; shortly after I left the mission, she was let go.

The heads of billion-dollar peace operations, with enormous responsibilities for ending wars, are not able to hire their immediate staff, or to reassign non-performers away from critical roles. It is a sign of how perversely twisted the bureaucracy is that personnel decisions are considered more dangerous than the responsibility to lead a mission on which the fate of a country depends.

One result of this dysfunction is minimal accountability. There is today a chief of staff in a large peacekeeping mission who is manifestly incompetent. Many have tried to get rid of him, but short of a serious crime, it is virtually impossible to fire someone in the United Nations. In the past six years, I am not aware of a single international field staff member’s being fired, or even sanctioned, for poor performance.

The second serious problem is that too many decisions are driven by political expediency instead of by the values of the United Nations or the facts on the ground.

Peacekeeping forces often lumber along for years without clear goals or exit plans, crowding out governments, diverting attention from deeper socioeconomic problems and costing billions of dollars. My first peacekeeping mission was in Cambodia in 1992.

We left after less than two years. Now it’s a rare exception when a mission lasts fewer than 10.

Look at Haiti: There has been no armed conflict

for more than a decade, and yet a United Nations force of more than 4,500 remains. Meanwhile, we are failing at what should be our most important task: assisting in the creation of stable, democratic institutions. Elections have been postponed amid allegations of fraud, and the interim prime minister has said that “the country is facing serious social and economic difficulties.” The military deployment makes no contribution at all to solving these problems.

Our most grievous blunder is in Mali. In early 2013, the United Nations decided to send 10,000 soldiers and police officers to Mali in response to a terrorist takeover of parts of the north. Inexplicably, we sent a force that was unprepared for counterterrorism and explicitly told not to engage in it. More than 80 percent of the force’s resources are spent on logistics and self-protection. Already 56 people in the United Nations contingent have been killed, and more are certain to die. The United Nations in Mali is day by day marching deeper into its first quagmire.

But the thing that has upset me most is what the United Nations has done in the Central African Republic. When we took over peacekeeping responsibilities from the African Union there in 2014, we had the choice of which troops to accept. Without appropriate debate, and for cynical political reasons, a decision was made to include soldiers from the Democratic Republic of Congo and from the Republic of Congo, despite reports of serious human rights violations by these soldiers. Since then, troops from these countries have engaged in a persistent pattern of rape and abuse of the people — often young girls — the United Nations was sent there to protect.

Last year, peacekeepers from the Republic of Congo arrested a group of civilians, with no legal basis whatsoever, and beat them so badly that one died in custody and the other shortly after in a hospital. In response there was hardly a murmur, and certainly no outrage, from the responsible officials in New York.

As the abuse cases piled up, impassioned pleas were made to send the troops home. These were ignored, and more cases of child rape came to light.

Last month, we finally kicked out the Democratic Republic of Congo soldiers, but the ones from the Re-

public of Congo remain.

In 1988, my first job with the United Nations was as a human rights officer in Cambodian refugee camps along the Thai-Cambodian border, investigating rapes and murders of the poor and helpless. Never could I have imagined that I would one day have to deal with members of my own organization committing the same crimes or, worse, senior officials tolerating them for reasons of cynical expediency.

I am hardly the first to warn that the United Nations bureaucracy is getting in the way of its peacekeeping efforts. But too often, these criticisms come from people who think the United Nations is doomed to fail. I come at it from a different angle: I believe that for the world’s sake we must make the United Nations succeed.

In the run-up to the election of a new secretary general this year, it is essential that governments, and especially the permanent members of the Security Council, think carefully about what they want out of the United Nations. The organization is a Remington typewriter in a smartphone world. If it is going to advance the causes of peace, human rights, development and the climate, it needs a leader genuinely committed to reform.

The bureaucracy needs to work for the missions; not the other way around. The starting point should be the overhaul of our personnel system. We need an outside panel to examine the system and recommend changes. Second, all administrative expenses should be capped at a fixed percentage of operations costs. Third, decisions on budget allocations should be removed from the Department of Management and placed in the hands of an independent controller reporting to the secretary general. Finally, we need rigorous performance audits of all parts of headquarters operations.

Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is a man of great integrity, and the United Nations is filled with smart, brave and selfless people. Unfortunately, far too many others lack the moral aptitude and professional abilities to serve. We need a United Nations led by people for whom “doing the right thing” is normal and expected.

Anthony Banbury was a United Nations assistant secretary general for field support until this month

Gender equality in times of climate change: a matter of life and death mafalda Duarte Climate Investment Funds

W

hen I started my career in the world of global development some twenty odd years ago, a number of female leaders inspired me. Rachel Carson had left an epic legacy with her book ‘Silent Spring.’ Wangari Maathai, founder of the Green Belt Movement, had won a Nobel Peace Prize. Jane Goodall was reminding us all of nature conservation causes. And that’s just to name a few of those who were most visible.

One of my first experiences in the developing world was in Mozambique.

While there, I saw the devastating impacts of floods not just at the national and community level, but especially on women and girls.

I am not thinking about Sofia Chubango, the 26 year old woman who gave birth to a baby girl, Rosita Pedro, in a tree while waiting for rescue in March of 2000. She made the news internationally.

I’m thinking about the thousands and thousands of women in Mozambique and elsewhere who are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change not only because they tend to be highly exposed to the physical im-

pacts linked to climate but also because they are less resilient from a socio-economic point of view. And the large majority of these don’t make it to the news.

Their livelihoods tend to be highly dependent on a single source of income, normally based on farm revenues. They tend to own less if any assets at all and when they end up in cities they are poorly integrated in governance and social welfare programs.

Even when they are seeking refuge in camps for displaced people, not enough attention is paid to their needs, for maternal health care, hygiene, proper sanitation and protection from g e n d e r- b a s e d violence.

In developing countries, natural disasters typically kill more women than men because they tend to have lower social and economic rights. Eric Neumayer and Thomas Plumper are among those who have studied this in detail and explain that given existing patterns of gender discrimination, boys are likely to receive preferential treatment when it comes to rescue efforts and both women and girls suffer more from shortages of food and economic resources in the aftermath of disasters.

To put it bluntly, gender inequality needs are met and being trained in imin times of climate change is a matter proved agriculture practices. of life and death.

All in all, the women of Tajikistan’s Pyanj River basin are now spending LEADERSHIP 75 percent less time collecting water.

OPPORTUNITIES NEEDED While these practical improvements If we ignore the needs of women, make a big difference in quality of life, we are ignoring half the world. During the institutional changes where wom15 years living and working in Africa en gain formal leadership experiences and Asia, I saw first-hand how women are just as important. can be the most impacted, but also how For the leaders of tomorrow in they can also be the most powerful forc- the climate sphere, there are plenty of es for change by leading communities women whom they can look to for inin resilience and rebuilding efforts. spiration. These include Mary RobinEvery day all across the world, bil- son, Ireland’s former president and paslions of women – farmers, land-manag- sionate crusader for climate justice and ers, commuters, Rachel Kyte, formerly of the World Bank entrepreneurs, and now heading Sustainable Energy consumers, in- For All. And of course Christiana Figuevestors – make res, the energetic Executive Secretary of decisions that af- the United Nations’ climate body, who fect the future of our children and our did the diplomatic heavy-lifting and planet. We need women to be empow- worked tirelessly to secure an unprecered to make decisions but in order for edented climate agreement in Paris. that to happen they need to be engaged So as a woman, as a mother of three in decision-making processes and pro- wonderful girls and as the head of one vided with leadership opportunities. of the largest climate finance funds in So what does it mean to do address the world, I call upon all those engaged this systematically, to make ‘gender in climate policy and action to make smart’ decisions in the context of fight- space for women as change agents and ing climate change? One example is leaders. A greener future starts with from our work Tajikistan, where wom- women. en are getting involved in local water Mafalda Duarte is the Manager of the $8.3 user associations, ensuring their water billion Climate Investment Funds (CIF)

WRITE-WING

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 31•03•2016

PERSPECTIVE

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Developments in the district: An insight Lesly Lobeni Lotha

S

ix and a half hours into an impromptu trip with the Land Resource Department of Nagaland in January 2016, I had a vague awakening that my personal staunch views of how the government functions was perhaps too harsh. Seeing the work done in the field and at the grass root level, it infused an understanding that I once believed would never dawn upon me.

The trip undertaken by the LRD was an assessment tour of their Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), a government of India initiative implemented countrywide under the Pradhan MantriKrishiSinchayeeYojana (PMKSY) scheme. Under the watershed development programme, the LRD also had a sub-project: Special Programme for Economic and Environmental Development, better known as ‘SPEED’, a five-year programme. Initiated by the LRD Director, Mhathung Yanthan, when each department was asked to foster a project to commemorate the 50th year of statehood back in 2013, 50 villages of 50 to 100 households were adopted for this programme and is now entering its third year of implementation. The aim of it being to give more focus and emphasis on the selected villages and give a hand-holding support to develop them into economically empowered and climate-smart villages.

Longkhitipeh was the first stop and it is one of the villages chosen under SPEED. Within the short 2-year span, the village has made remarkable progress. They have attained total sanitation but more significant is their mosquito control. There have been zero cases of malaria since coming under the project.

Longkhitipeh, Ekhao and Nokyen-B were three SPEED villages visited in the region but it was the changes in Ekhao that was singled out. I was told that there were no boundaries between pigs and human.

Each lived with the other and the concept of toilets didn’t exist. This time, however, seeing the number of toilets under construction and the pigs being reared in proper sty’s, the young WTD members were especially satisfied commending their absentee peer in-charge of Ekhao of a job well done.

The WTD members involved in the IWMP and SPEED projects are mostly young people between the ages of 27 to 35. They were not only hardworking but realistic and determined.Interacting with them made me aware of my ignorance on basic matters of our state. Educated in good institutions around India with futures that could’ve taken them far and wide, they made a conscious choice to come back and help their own people. Unlike the miserable half of us looking for the fastest exit route out of here.

The WDT members have tales of harrowing journeys during the monsoon season, getting stuck on the road at night to cutting across a mountain and getting lost in the jungles.To them though, it’s all worth it. And it’s not all just words to please their senior officials or a stranger in their midst.

Local villager standing outside the Sugarcane Mill provided by the Land Resource Department in Pathso. Photo credit: Lesly Lobeni Lotha

Their genuine concerns could be seen in the camaraderie with not only the villagers but among themselves as they discussed the village or programme they were overseeing and exchanging experiences and doubts. Mr. Yanthan feels that 90% of them have job satisfaction and that it is due to their commitment and sincerity that there have been achievements.

Having been a supervisory officer himself, Yanthan has made all the staff supervisory officer of one district or the other so that they will oversee the performance and time to time, carry out inspections “to get first-hand knowledge of not only monitoring the project but also to understand the problem of the people, their wishes and aspirations. So for that, I also undertake tours on a regular basis and my focus is on the difficult and remote areas”.

Kengjung (also Kingjung) definitely proved to be one of those. While being one of the border villages (with Burma), it is also one of the furthest. As mentioned earlier, roads were only constructed a couple of years ago making this the first trip for the visiting senior officials. The way to Kengjung was via Sanglao and Wui. While the Nagaland Electrical Department claim to have 100% reach, it is seemingly confined to the bigger towns and villages as the village of Wui gets its electricity from the Assam electrical line. Kengjung, being just three hours away, has been inaccessible due to the challenging terrains. This has resulted to a unique alternative: the hydroger.

The hydroger is essentially a turbine pushing the force of water to create the needed electric surge. Although there is enough water supply to run an entire day, Kengjung follow a daily routine where the hydroger is

turned on only after dark when it is essentially required. The hydroger was installed under the Nagaland Environment Protection and Economic Development (NEPED) Project when the commissioner secretary was the administrative head of both NEPED and LRD. A convergence of departments. A convergence that Mr. Yanthan hopes for if Nagaland is to move ahead.

“There are so many good government programmes and these programmes are supposed to work in tandem with each other which is not happening. Convergence is not happening in reality. Only in paper. Departments have their own agendas. It’s also because of political interference. Political hand comes in especially in the project selection, site selection and people beneficiary selection.”

If this convergence were to take place, let’s say, I asked the director whether the question of who takes the credit will arise and cause tension. “It’ll be the department that implements it” he said with a smile.

However, he made it clear that the LRD is not so much after publicity and taking credit. “It’s a thankless job. It is only the people, when anybody goes and visits (the villages) by chance or purposely, that mention our department because they (the visitors) get curious and ask them which department is doing all these things”.

These changes were evident in almost all the villages we visited except for Wui, where a project is planned for later this year. The department inaugurated a community utility centre in Longkhitpeh, a rest house in Kengjung and Pathso-Nokyen.

There was also a rice mill provided by the LRD in Ekhao as well as a sugarcane mill in Pathso. Interestingly, sugarcane cultiva-

tion was also introduced by the LRD and this was their first harvest.

Ultimately, the changes that are being brought in is with a vision that there will be an economic uplifting. Yet for that to take place, the department understandably had to put in some investment. How are finances in these matters decided? How much funds are released?

The answer was a cost-sharing formula. Yanthan admits that the cost norm is very limiting. Explaining it in terms of one hectare of aplantation or an orchard, a particular region is given Rs. 8, 000 to 9, 000/- for development. With difficult terrains and high level vehicular risks to account for, “it is a Herculean task”. While some structures and programmes have been solely taken up by the department, most times the village provides their share of money from the village development programme (VDP) fund and also available labour and raw materials.

Yanthan’s work ethics are much to be admired. He leads by example and most of time, it was impossible for us 20 something’s to catch up to him as we trekked mountains. Having studied and specialised in agriculture, he knows the rubrics and demands of the job with clear-cut precision. A conversation with him was always educative and he has a very creative approach to his methods. The team has a high regard and respect for him, interacting with him freely while he was ever ready to advice, consult and listen.

A good number of people in my age group (mid to late 20s) scoff at the mention of ‘government jobs’ because we don’t want to get into the system. A system where the government is famed for running on greed and personal favours. Any sort of good work is ultimately cast off as an ulterior motive of personal gain. So when we decide to part ways with our parents’ generation and with that, government jobs, it’s done out of a personal opinion of what we see around us today. Rope in incidents like the internal political struggles of 2014/15, the still-unknown and unseen peace accord, evident backdoor appointments and even the infamous March 5 incident, it doesn’t leave much optimism.

But this trip infused a sense of belief.

My view of the government being the bully, ‘the bad guy’ was too generic. The surface may look hopeless but there are some changes being made and being worked towards somewhere in the deep end.While it is vital that the senior officers be exemplary leaders, I think it is equally important to also have a group of dedicated youngsters so that they can be groomed and educated for the future. If every millennial with government service aspirations were like the ones I encountered during my week-long journey, the hypothetical hopeless future of Nagaland could well be rescued. *I am not affiliated with the Land Resource Department nor do I work there.

The department was touring for work purpose and I was a traveller kindly accommodated. This is an account of my interaction with department members, observations and a conversation that took place with the Director after the trip.

Pressure grows on Jakarta to tackle indigenous rights abuses Fidelis E. Satriastanti

I

Thomson Reuters Foundation

ndonesia's government is under pressure to boost protection for indigenous peoples' rights, after a state-led inquiry identified 40 cases in which they were violated, prompting calls for the president to set up a task force to deal with the problem.

The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) launched the inquiry in April 2014 after mounting reports of human rights abuses related to land in forest areas.

Of the thousands of cases reported to the commission, 40 were selected from seven regions - Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali-Nusa Tenggara, Maluku and Papua - as test cases for investigation.

One was a long-running land conflict in Muara Tae village in East Kalimantan province's West Kutai district. Here the Dayak Benuaq indigenous people have struggled since the early 1970s to claim rights over their customary forests in the face of encroachment by logging and mining operations, and more recently oil palm plantations.

"Our ancestors have been protecting (our) customary forest for generations," said Masrani of the Dayak Benuaq, who came to Jakarta for the launch of the inquiry report in mid-March.

"We did all we could to protect the forests. We tried to seek help from local government but instead we were blamed, captured, criminalised for defending our own lands."

The expropriation of customary forest for timber concessions, mines, plantations and government-backed resettlement violated the Dayak Benuaq people's rights to a healthy and safe environment, property ownership, cultural activities, education, traditional knowledge and a life free of fear, the inquiry found.

Masrani testified to the inquiry that the loss of land had created tension between his community and neighbouring villagers who had chosen to sell their territory to companies.

He also recalled intimidation from "men with guns" who had attacked the village in 1998-99, forcing him and his family to take refuge in the forest.

LEGAL LIMBO In the eastern province of Maluku, a tribe native to the Aru Islands was taken unawares by a plan to develop a sugarcane plantation in 2012.

Local people later discovered that the head of Aru district had granted permits in 2010 for companies to use customary forest without the tribe's knowledge or consent.

Of the district's 600,000 hectares, the permits covered nearly 500,000 hectares, and 90 out of 117 villages were located in concession areas. "So where do you suppose we should live?" asked Mamado, an Aru traditional leader.

In 2014, after an intense social media campaign, Zulkifli Hasan, then forestry minister in the government of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, cancelled the plantation plan.

The inquiry report said the Aru tribe's rights to information and participation, and to be consulted under the principle of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) had been violated.

Intimidation and abuse experienced by tribe members had also denied them the rights to feel safe, and to be free from fear, torture, inhuman or degrading treatment, it added.

Despite this, in mid-2015 the current

And as forests are converted to plantations, the herbs indigenous women use to stop bleeding during birth are becoming rarer, denying them the right to reproductive health.

Shrinking access to customary forest also restricts the farming and crafts activities of women, who are at greater risk of arrest for trespassing and encroachment without proper legal representation, Situmorang said.

Abdon Nababan, secretary general of AMAN (Indigenous Peoples' Alliance of the Archipelago), said indigenous peoples had waited "a rough two years" for the inquiry to be completed.

Nababan had supported the process because in 2014, AMAN was reporting cases of rights abuses almost once a week, he said.

In 2013, Komnas HAM recorded 1,123 complaints over land use, which more than doubled to 2,483 complaints in 2014.

That figure is likely to increase, as agriculture minister, Amran Sulaiman, an- around 70 percent of Indonesia's nearly nounced the development of 500,000 hect- 32,000 villages are located in or near forest ares of sugarcane plantation in three loca- areas, experts say. tions: Aru, Merauke and South Sulawesi.

This and other developments have "BE PATIENT" fuelled scepticism over President Joko Nababan blamed violations of the "Jokowi" Widodo's election promise to rights of indigenous peoples on the 1999 protect the rights of indigenous peoples.

Law on Forest, which excluded them from A draft bill to that end - which would secure legal tenure over customary forests. recognise indigenous peoples' rights to He urged the government to set up a their land and natural resources, and put task force to deal with indigenous peoples' their beliefs on an equal footing with those grievances, while waiting for new legislaof other citizens - is in legal limbo, and has tion to be passed. not been included in the national legislaPresidential Chief of Staff Teten Mastion programme for 2015-2019. duki said at the report launch that Jokowi was deeply committed to indigenous peoWOMEN SUFFER ple, but his administration had been up Saur Tumiur Situmorang, one of the and running for only two years. report's authors and a member of the Na"Please be patient. We are looking into tional Commission against Violence on the best way to find the right solution for Women (Komnas Perempuan), said the the issue," said Masduki. "The past must inquiry also revealed violations of the be cleared so it will no longer be a burden rights of indigenous women. for the future."

When they cannot access their land, He noted demands that the cabinet they must travel longer distances to collect should not become too large, and said the food, she said. government wanted to avoid overlapping In Papua, that left some women vulner- agencies that would swell the state budget. able to sexual and physical abuse while out But it would not neglect the need to set on the road, as well as at home if they failed up a task force on indigenous issues, he addto find enough food, the inquiry found. ed, without saying when that might happen.

7

A WEEKLY COLUMN ON

Micro-Economics & Management By Mazie Nakhro

When Keeping Your Money Safe Isn’t a Good Idea at All

S

ome people are in the habit of accumulating cash upon cash to be kept in some hidden place or safe box at home. This is their way of guaranteeing that they don’t lose their money. What they fail to realize is that such storing at home can’t really offer a foolproof guarantee if the house is robbed or caught on fire. Besides, earning zero returns of their money is the same as moving backwards because the longer they keep their money with them, the more that money’s value goes down. This is because of the problem of inflation. Let’s say, if the average inflation rate over a period of five years is 4.5% , the purchasing power of a Rs 25,000 cash kept at home today will come down to Rs 20,548.18 after five years, which is a lot worth less.

A savings account is a step up. With a savings account in a bank, your money will be fairly safe and you’ll be lucky if you get 4% on it. For that matter, even at 4% earning on interests, you will be losing your money’s value if the average inflation rate is 4.5%. In the meantime, the bank will gladly take your Rs 25,000 and invest around 80% of that amount in some mutual funds, which could give them a yield of at least 10 percentage points. This, of course, is how the bank can make money with your money. Not only that, after you open that new account, the bank will charge you anopening fee (Rs 500) and an annual fee (Rs 500) for its services. Also, they could offer a credit card with a line of credit, which is an easy way to borrow their money up to a specified limit.

But the catch is this: the bank could charge you an interest rate of 10 - 18%, as opposed to just 4% when they take your money.

The next step up to a savings account is called a Certificate of Deposit (CD)--- that is, a CD will give you a higher rate of return than a standard savings account. For example, if you deposit your money in a CD, you get a guaranteed rate of return---about 5% in most cases--but you can’t take out that money until the maturity date, which could be a five-year period. If somehow you prematurely withdraw it, you will end up paying all sorts of fees and penalties. Even without the fees, though, a 5% rate of return is barely enough to keep up with inflation.

If you are serious about investing, you must consider buying bonds, which is a little risky but within reasonable limit. A bond is an IOU, a debt instrument by which a company owes you money. When you purchase a bond from a private company, that company takes your money in exchange for their promise of paying you an interest rate (anywhere from 6 - 8%) and the initial principal amount at a specified future date. Some bonds have short terms, such as a few months, while others have terms as long as 30 years. The interest rate on a bond depends, in part, on its term.

Long-term bonds are riskier than short-term bonds because holders of long-term bonds have to wait longer for repayment of the principal. To compensate for this risk, long-term bonds usually pay higher interest rates than short-term bonds. The second important determinant of the interest rate is tied to the performance of the company. If the company’s performance is not good, there is a probability that the company (borrower) could fail to pay some of the interest or principal. So, when bond buyers perceive that such a probability of default is high, they will demand a higher interest rate to compensate them for this risk.

By contrast, bonds issued by the government pay a lower interest rate because government bonds are more secured. After all, for a government to default would mean that the entire economy has fallen apart, which is unlikely.

While companies’ sale of bonds to raise money from people is called debt finance, the sale of stocks is called equity finance. For example, when the computer chip-maker Intel Corporation needed to raise funds to build a new factory, it issued a number of shares for the public to buy. Let’s say, if Intel sold a total of 100,000 shares of stock, then each share represents ownership of 1/100,000 of the business firm. This is because stock represents ownership in a firm and is, therefore, a claim to the profit that the firm makes. As such, if the firm’s value skyrockets, the value of each share also goes up exponentially.

Likewise, there are many other examples of stock sales and/or purchases from companies such as Tata Group, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, Reliance Industries, Infosys, ICICI Bank, Sun Pharma, Lupin, and many more … from which millions of Indians have made lots of money.

In India, there are 24 stock exchanges as of 2015. Of these, the biggest ones are the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE). These are platforms where business transactions can be facilitated for stock buyers and sellers without meeting at a physical location. To buy stocks, or sell stocks you already have but don’t want anymore, all you need to do is get the help of a stock broker. Also, today most brokers provide Internet-based trading facilities so that their clients can buy or sell stocks themselves using the Internet from any place they’d like.

So, if you want to get some return on a pile of money you don’t need today, consider investing in stocks and bonds.

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

8

ThursdAY 31•03•2016

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Modi strikes sympathy chord with terror-hit Brussels Brussels, March 30 (IaNs): Visiting the Belgian capital that is yet to recover from the horror of the March 22 terror attacks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that India shares “the depth of sorrow and grief” of the Belgian people as it has itself experienced terrorist violence on countless occasions.

Modi, who laid a wreath at the Maalbeek metro station that had been hit by a massive suicide bombing on March 22, offered deepest condolences to the families of those killed in the terror strikes in Brussels last week.

In his press statement after holding talks with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel, Modi said: ”Having experienced terrorist violence ourselves on countless occasions, we share your pain. In this time of crisis, the whole of India stands in full support and solidarity with the Belgian people.”

Modi also proposed resuming bilateral talks on a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty. “Negotiations on Extradition Treaty and a Treaty on Exchange of Sentenced Prisoners could be concluded expeditiously,” he said.

Indian Infosys techie Raghavendran Ganesan was among the many killed when

PM Modi at EU summit wants to defuse row over Italian marine

Belgium's Foreign Minister Didier Reynders (L) and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C) pay tribute to the victims at a street memorial outside Maelbeek metro station after bomb attacks took place in the metro and at Belgian international airport of Zaventem last week, in Brussels, Belgium on March 30. (REUTERS Photo)

a bomb ripped through a train carriage at Maalbeek station, located in the heart of Brussels and close to the EU headquarters.

Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Didier Reynders accompanied Modi to the Maalbeek station and briefed him about the attack.

Seeking to enhance bilateral business ties, Modi also met business leaders of Belgium. In his address,

Modi said that while diamonds remain India's ageold link with their nation, new opportunities have opened up in India, notably in IT and infrastructure.

"Diamonds are, of course, an old link between us. It provides employment to many in India. IT is another sector of promise," the prime minister told the Belgian CEOs over a luncheon meeting.

Around 2,500 Indians are based in Antwerp, deal-

7 CRPF men killed in Dantewada landmine blast raIPur, March 30 (PTI): Seven CRPF men were killed today in a deadly landmine blast carried out by Naxals that also left a massive 4-feet deep crater on the road in the worst Maoist violence-affected Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh. The troops, most of whom had just returned from leave, were going to their nearby camp. The landmine was cleverly hidden and planted by Maoists under the 'black top or puccka' road as troops travelled as part of a three-vehicle convoy. A senior official, however, ruled out looting of any weapons of the jawans, who were not in their combat uniforms, as most of them had had just come back from leave. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered by the force into the incident and to find out under what circumstances the troops were travelling in a four-wheeler, banned for force personnel in these areas due to the threat of hidden Improvised Explosive Devices, and why were they not carrying arms as it is mandatory for them while even moving for non-operational tasks. The vehicle and the troops were blown to smithereens and a four-feet crater has been created at the site where the blast took place, the official said.

No floor test in Uttarakhand Assembly on March 31 NaINITal, March 30 (PTI): Tomorrow's floor test in Uttarakhand Assembly, ordered by a single judge of the High Court, was today stayed by the Division Bench till April 7, giving yet another twist to the continuing political drama in the state. The Bench of Chief Justice K M Joseph and Justice V K Bisht passed the order on a petition filed by the Centre against yesterday's single judge directive for floor test tomorrow. The order came after Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Centre, strongly opposed yesterday's order saying courts cannot interfere with the Presidential proclamation. The next date of hearing before the Division Bench is April 6. Earlier, the trust vote was slated for March 28 but the Centre imposed President's Rule on March 27, citing "breakdown of Constitutional machinery" in the state. This was challenged by ousted Chief Minister Harish Rawat before the single judge U C Dhyani of the High Court. The single judge, while ordering the floor test on March 31, had also allowed nine disqualified rebel Congress MLAs to participate in the voting.

Five held in Delhi for attacking madrassa students New DelhI, March 30 (IaNs): Five young men were arrested on Wednesday for attacking three madrassa students last week after they allegedly refused to say "Jai Mata", police said. Ashu, Karamvir, Sachin, Sagar and Aditya, all in their 20s and residents of Begumpur in south Delhi, were arrested from their residences, Deputy Commissioner of Police Vikramjit Singh told IANS. The officer said madrasa student Dilkash, 18, and his two classmates -- Ajmal and Naeem -- alleged that they were attacked in a park on March 26 when they refused to say "Jai Mata Ki". Dilkash, who suffered a broken arm following the attack, told police that he and his friends were walking in a park when they were attacked. The three managed to escape after a few minutes of the attack and ran to their seminary. The police were then alerted. The officer told IANS that the arrested youths had been charged with causing grievous hurt and wrongful restraint. He said the victims were known to the accused.

ing mainly in the diamond trade.

"Today we live in an interdependent world. India offers a huge opportunity -- not just a market, but also as a huge talent pool," Modi said, and gave the examples of ports and inland waterways as areas that can offer them attractive opportunities.

He said India also has "ties of blood with Belgium".

"Some 100 years ago,

The haGue March 30 (reuTers):India blamed Italy for delaying the repatriation of an Italian marine who has been detained in Delhi for four years as Prime Minister Narenda Modi arrived at a summit with the EU in Brussels hoping to defuse the long-running row.

In 2012, India arrested two Italian marines who were escorting an oil tanker on suspicion of shooting dead two fishermen they mistook for pirates. Though they were not charged, the pair were barred from leaving India.

Massimiliano Latorre was allowed to return home last year for medical treatment. But Salvatore Girone has been confined to Delhi, where he lives at the Italian ambassador's residence and reports regularly to police.

Italy says Girone's human rights are being violated and has asked the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague to order India to send him home. But India's lawyers say the delays are the result of Italy's 2012 decision to escalate the affair to international courts rather than let-

130,000 soldiers from India fought in Belgium and 9,000 of them made supreme sacrifices," he recalled and referred to the participation of Indian solders in World War I at West Flanders.

Belgians hold an annual commemoration to this sacrifice and have installed a memorial for the lost Indian soldiers in 2001 in the City of Leper.

In the morning, the prime minister arrived to

a red carpet welcome and was warmly greeted by a large crowd of Indian diaspora, who waved the Indian tricolour. Many mobbed him for autographs, which the prime minister smilingly signed.

Later, the two prime ministers jointly remote activated Asia's largest optical telescope, ARIES, located in Nainital, Uttarakhand in India.

“ARIES project is not just a government-to-gov-

ting Indian courts to handle it.

"The trial has not commenced due to an obstructive course of action by India," said Neeru Chadha, India's lead lawyer. "Italy is now trying to shift the blame onto India."

Italy maintains both marines were immune to prosecution since they were serving on a U.N.-backed anti-piracy mission, and because the tanker was in international waters when it fired on the fishermen.

Italy has paid $190,000 in compensation to each victim's family.

India hopes the Brussels summit will bring a thaw in ties with the European Union and persuade Italy to refrain from blocking India's membership of a key global group on missile technology. Rome single-handedly scuppered India's bid to join last year.

As part of a broad agenda, the EU plans to raise the issue of the marines with Modi, according to an internal EU council note seen by Reuters.

ernment initiative, it is a win-win collaboration between private sectors as well,” he said after the inauguration.

Located at the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) at Devasthal near Nainital, it is a 3.6-metre telescope.

India has collaborated with a Belgian company called AMOS to produce this infrared steerable optical telescope which is the

first of its kind in the whole of Asia.

Modi is to attend the 13th India-European Union (EU) Summit later in the day.

Brussels is the first leg of his three-nation tour.

He travels to Washington on Thursday to attend the two-day Fourth Nuclear Security Summit to be hosted by US President Barack Obama. He will visit Riyadh for a bilateral visit to Saudi Arabia on April 2-3.

‘There is a sense of fear in Bastar’

Editor’s Guild of India reports on Challenges to Journalism in Chhattisgarh

BasTar, March 30 (MexN): There is a sense of fear in Bastar division of Chhattisgarh, and every journalist working there feels that s/he is not safe.

This conclusion was reached by a Fact Finding Team (FFT) of the Editors’ Guild of India that verified and assessed the recent reports of the arrests of journalists in Chhattisgarh, threats and challenges faced by journalists in the State, and challenges to the profession of journalism. The report, titled ‘Challenges to Journalism in Bastar’ was compiled by the FFT consisted of Prakash Dubey, General Secretary, Seema Chishti, Executive Committee Member and Vinod Verma, Executive Committee Member.

On the one hand journalists in Bastar have to deal with Maoists “who are becoming more and more sensitive about the reports appearing in the media” and on the other hand, the police “wants the media to report as and what they want,” reported the FFT of the condition of journalists in the conflict hit region of Bastar in Chhattisgarh.

In a deterrent to objective reporting from the region, the State Government reportedly wants the media to “see its fight with the Maoists as a fight for the nation and expects the media to treat it as a national security issue, and not raise any ques-

tions about it,” stated the report.

Journalists posted in Bastar said that they cannot “dare to travel” to the conflict zone to report because they cannot report the facts on the ground.

The journalists working in the region, in Bastar as well as capital city Raipur, remained certain that their phones were being tapped by the State. However, the administration denied this, and said that there was a “perception gap” and they would try to change this.

your intentions and can ask bluntly, Are you with the government or with the Maoists?” admitted the Chief Editor of an old and reputed newspaper to the FFT. Worse still, “Both sides feel that what you are writing is wrong.”

“Now we ask Maoist organizations to send photographs and press releases. We publish them as we receive them because we don’t want to explain every single line we are writing to them. Similarly the police expect us to publish its version so most of the journalists print Which side of journalism? their press releases as well without A journalist working in Bastar asking any questions,” a senior loexpects to be asked “Which side of cal journalist said. journalism?” are they on, reported the FFT. As local journalists put it, Other threats there are three categories of jourSeveral senior journalists connalists in Bastar: pro-government, firmed to the FFT that a controvernot-so-pro government and pro- sial group called the Samajik Ekta Maoists or “Maoist sympathizers.” Manch is funded and run by the And, often, journalists get cate- police headquarters in Bastar— gorised due to the ensuing circum- the organisation has been held stances. For instance, since cor- responsible by journalists for iniruption is rampant in Bastar, some tiating attacks against them in the (so-called) journalists earn more guise of a “citizen’s group.” Accordmoney for not publishing a news ing to the journalists, it is an urban item, than for publishing it. “In a reincarnation of Salwa Judum. conflict zone like Bastar, they are When asked, the Chief Minister the favourites of the local police and of Chhattisgarh, Dr. Raman Singh, other officials,” observed the FFT. said that he is aware of most of the Visiting journalists are most incidents of pressure on journalists “disliked” by police and local ad- and he is concerned about it. He ministration as “their reports seem said that his government is in fapro Maoist because they go inside vour of free and fair media. He had and talk to the people and any- called a meeting of top officials and thing coming from the people usu- some editors and formed a monially contradicts the government’s toring committee which will be version and hence it is labeled as consulted for any cases related to pro Maoists or anti government.” the media and journalists.

“If you want to analyze anyThe Chief Minister had also thing independently, you cannot instructed the administration for do it because they can question better coordination and coopera-

tion. However, the FFT informed that a journalist was arrested shortly after the FFT meeting with him, suggesting that “there is no shift in policy.”

“The government should respect democratic rights and should give benefit of doubt to the journalists,” asserted a senior journalist from Chhattisgarh.

However, journalism itself suffers from some glitches, noted the FFT report. “There are only a few journalists who can understand the language/dialect tribal people speak. There is not a single full time journalist who comes from the tribes,” it stated.

Then, newspapers and other media houses are appointing journalists as stringers in the remote areas without any formalities. “These journalists gather news, collect advertisements and arrange the distribution of the newspapers too. They generally survive on the commission they get from advertisement collections or they rely on other professions for the same,” observed the FFT, recommending a “separate and detailed” report on stringers.

Finally, the report noted that there is no mechanism in place for accreditation of those journalists who are working beyond the district head quarters. “So when the question of identity arises government conveniently denies that someone is/was a journalist. Media houses also disown them because they see them as liability beyond a point.”

FFT maintained the view that newspaper organizations should take care while appointing stringers and give them adequate protection.

SC approves Centre's guidelines to protect Good Samaritans New DelhI, March 30 (PTI): The Supreme Court today approved the Centre's guidelines to protect Good Samaritans, who help road accident victims, from being unnecessarily harassed by police or any other authority.

A bench comprising justices V Gopala Gowda and Arun Mishra asked the central government to give wide publicity to these guidelines so that people who help others in the time of distress are not victimised by any authority.

The bench also took on record the guidelines placed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways which were based on the recommendations of the three-member committee headed by former judge K S Radhakrishnan it appointed in 2014 to monitor steps taken by the Centre and state governments to ensure road safety.

The committee, also comprising former Secretary of Road Transport Ministry S Sundar and Nishi Mittal, ex-chief scientist, had given 12 major recommendations including setting up of State Road Safety Councils, evolving a protocol for identification of black spots, their removal and monitoring to see the effectiveness

of the action taken. zens to come forward to help the examined for the purposes of inemergency situation pertaining to The apex court-appointed comroad accident victims by the auvestigation by the police or during road accidents, where he is expectmittee had also suggested strengthenthorities in the manner as may be the trial, such bystander or good ed to provide care, shall constitute ing of enforcement relating to drunkspecified by the State Governments.

Samaritan shall be examined on a “Professional Misconduct”, under en driving, over-speeding, red light 3.The bystander or good Samaritan single occasion and the State GovChapter 7 of the Indian Medical jumping and helmet or seat belt laws. shall not be liable for any civil and ernment shall develop standard Council (Professional Conduct, The ministry had said in a statecriminal liability. operating procedures to ensure Etiquette and Ethics) Regulation, ment that in the absence of any stat- 4.A bystander or good Samaritan, that bystander or good Samaritan 2002 and disciplinary action shall utory backing, it was proving diffiwho makes a phone call to inform is not harassed or intimidated. be taken against such doctor under cult to enforce these guidelines and the police or emergency services 8. Video conferencing may be used Chapter 8 of the said Regulations. therefore the government had apfor the person lying injured on the extensively during examination of 11. All hospitals shall publish a charproached the apex court to consider road, shall not be compelled to rebystander or good Samaritan inter in Hindi, English and the verissuing these guidelines, through an veal his name and personal details cluding the persons referred to in nacular language of the State or order binding on all states and Union on the phone or in person. guideline (1) above, who are eye Union territory at their entrance to Territories, until the Union govern- 5. The disclosure of personal inforwitnesses in order to prevent hathe effect that they shall not detain ment enacts a law to this effect. mation, such as name and conrassment and inconvenience to bystander or good Samaritan or tact details of the good Samaritan good Samaritans. ask depositing money from them Some important provision of the shall be made voluntary and op- 9. The Ministry of Health and Family for the treatment of a victim.

Good Samaritans Guidelines tional including in the Medico LeWelfare shall issue guidelines stat- 12. In case a bystander or good Sa1. A bystander or good Samaritan ingal Case (MLC) Form provided by ing that all registered public and maritan so desires, the hospital cluding an eyewitness of a road hospitals. private hospitals are not to detain shall provide an acknowledgeaccident may take an injured per- 6. The disciplinary or departmenbystander or good Samaritan or ment to such good Samaritan, son to the nearest hospital, and tal action shall be initiated by the demand payment for registration confirming that an injured person the bystander or good Samaritan Government concerned against and admission costs, unless the was brought to the hospital and should be allowed to leave immepublic officials who coerce or ingood Samaritan is a family memthe time and place of such occurdiately except after furnishing adtimidate a bystander or good Saber or relative of the injured and rence and the acknowledgement dress by the eyewitness only and maritan for revealing his name or the injured is to be treated immemay be prepared in a standard forno question shall be asked to such personal details. diately in pursuance of the order mat by the State Government and bystander or good Samaritan.

7. In case a bystander or good Samarof the Hon’ble Supreme Court in disseminated to all hospitals in the 2. The bystander or good Samaritan itan, who has voluntarily stated Pt. Parmanand Katara vs Union of State for incentivising the bystandshall be suitably rewarded or comthat he is also an eye-witness to India & Ors [1989] 4 SCC 286. er or good Samaritan as deemed fit pensated to encourage other citithe accident and is required to be 10. Lack of response by a doctor in an by the State Government.

13. All public and private hospitals shall implement these guidelines immediately and in case of noncompliance or violation of these guidelines appropriate action shall be taken by the concerned authorities.

14. A letter containing these guidelines shall be issued by the Central Government and the State Government to all Hospitals and Institutes under their respective jurisdiction, enclosing a Gazette copy of this notification and ensure compliance and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways shall publish advertisements in all national and one regional newspaper including electronic media informing the general public of these guidelines.

15. The above guidelines in relation to protection of bystander or good Samaritan are without prejudice to the liability of the driver of a motor vehicle in the road accident, as specified undersection 134 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (59 of 1988).

(As notified by Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on May 13, 2015 in The Gazette of India)

ThursdaY 31•03 •2016

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

Myanmar democracy takes significant step with Htin Kyaw as its new president Suu Kyi is new foreign minister and head of three other ministries

NAYPYITAW, MArch 30 (AP): Myanmar’s slow transition to democracy took a momentous step Wednesday as a trusted aide to ruling-party leader Aung Suu Kyi took over as the country’s president, officially ending more than 50 years of the military’s control over government.

In a day full of ceremony and symbolism, Htin Kyaw was sworn in along with his two vice presidents and 18 Cabinet ministers. Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace laureate and face of Myanmar’s prodemocracy movement, takes on a prominent role as the country’s new foreign minister and the head of three other ministries.

“The Union Parliament has elected me as president, which is a historic moment for this country,” Htin Kyaw, 70, said in a speech after being sworn in. He pledged to work toward national reconciliation, strive for peace with warring ethnic rebels and improving the lives of Myanmar’s 54 million people.

While it was a historic day for this impoverished Southeast Asian country, democracy remains incomplete. The military re-

New Myanmar President Htin Kyaw, left, sits with outgoing president Thein Sein during a handover ceremony at the presidential palace in Naypyidaw on Wednesday, March 30. Htin Kyaw, a trusted friend of Nobel laureate Suu Kyi, took over as Myanmar’s president Wednesday, taking a momentous step in the country’s long-drawn transition toward democracy after more than a half-century of direct and indirect military rule. (AP Photo)

tains considerable power in the government and parliament, and the president himself will play second fiddle to Suu Kyi. She cannot be president because of a constitutional manipulation engineered by the military, and has repeatedly said she will run the country from behind the scenes.

“I am very happy that we have a president who rep-

resents people,” said Mar Thin, a 50-year-old street cleaner. She said she used to own 70 acres of land that she and her sister inherited from their father before the military kicked them out and appropriated the land for the defense ministry.

“I hope that the new government can solve the land confiscation problem and let us own our land

as farmers. All we want is enough food, and to live without fear. I hope that President Htin Kyaw will do that for us because Daw Suu promised us a lot of things, and we love her too,” Mar Thin said, using an affectionate term for Suu Kyi. Htin Kyaw’s swearingin was held in an austere hall of parliament, with lawmakers dressed in tra-

ditional costume. A few hours later, outgoing President Thein Sein shook hands with his successor and handed him a letter and a golden sash, officially transferring power.

It was Suu Kyi who led her National League for Democracy party to a landslide win in November elections, ushering in Myanmar’s first civilian

government after 54 years of direct and indirect military rule.

Suu Kyi endured decades of house arrest and harassment by military rulers without ever giving up on her nonviolent campaign to unseat them. The constitutional clause that denied her the presidency excludes anyone from the position who has a foreign spouse or child. Suu Kyi’s two sons are British, as was her late husband. The clause is widely seen as having been written by the military with Suu Kyi in mind.

She has repeatedly made it clear that she will run the government from behind the scenes, and in his speech on Wednesday, Htin Kyaw paid obeisance to Suu Kyi. “The new parliament and new government are formed in accord with the policies of the National League for Democracy led

by Aung San Suu Kyi,” he said, and referred to the party’s goal to amend the constitution.

“I have the obligation to work toward achieving a constitution that has democratic norms and is suitable for the nation,” Htin Kyaw said. “I want to tell the new government, we must constantly try to fulfill the hope and will of the people of this country. I wish all citizens of this country a successful and peaceful life.”

The constitution, drafted by the former junta, reserves 25 percent of the seats in parliament for military officers, guaranteeing that no government can amend the constitution without its approval.

The military also heads the Home Ministry, the Border Affairs Ministry and the Defense Ministry, which gives it control over the corrections department, ensuring that the release of political prisoners is its decision to make.

The military also ensured that one of Htin Kyaw’s two vice presidents is a former general, Myint Swe, a close ally of former junta leader Than Shwe.

Myint Swe remains on a U.S. Treasury Department blacklist that bars American companies from doing business with several tycoons and senior military figures connected with the former junta.

As Htin Kyaw was sworn in, Suu Kyi sat in the front row watching. The same pledge was simultaneously read by First Vice President Myint Swe and Second Vice President Henry Van Tio. After a 20-minute tea break, 18 members of Htin Kyaw’s Cabinet, including Suu Kyi, took a joint oath of office read out by the speaker.

The speaker then announced the portfolios of the 18 ministers. Suu Kyi will head four ministries —

foreign, education, energy and the president’s office.

Despite her inability to become president, Suu Kyi’s entry into the government is a remarkable turn of fortune not only for her, but also for the country, which had been under iron-fisted military rule for decades beginning in 1962.

The junta kept Myanmar in isolation and economic stagnation while refusing to listen to international counsel or homegrown demands for democracy.

Suu Kyi came to prominence in 1988, when popular protests were building up. The junta crushed the protests, which had turned into anti-government riots, killing thousands of people and placing Suu Kyi under house arrest in 1989.

The junta called elections in 1990, but refused to hand over power when Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party, or NLD, won overwhelmingly. Suu Kyi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize a year later while under house arrest.

The junta finally started loosening its grip on power in 2010, allowing elections that were won by a military-allied party after the NLD boycotted the polls as unfair. Thein Sein, a former general, was installed as president for a five-year term that started March 30, 2011, and ended Wednesday.

Bangladesh issues arrest warrant for Khaleda Zia Indonesia pushes to unshackle victims of mental illness DhAKA, MArch 30 (rEuTErs): A Bangladesh court issued an arrest warrant on Wednesday for former prime minister and opposition leader Khaleda Zia over a deadly firebombing attack last year, a prosecutor said. The court also issued arrest warrants for 27 leaders and activists of Khaleda’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party in connection with the petrol bomb attack on a bus during a party

protest in Dhaka in January last year.

“The court passed the order after accepting the charges against them,” public prosecutor Shah Alam Talukdar said. Early last year, at least 120 people were killed and hundreds injured in political violence, most in petrol bomb attacks on vehicles, amid transport blockades and strikes by the opposition aimed at toppling the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Bangladeshi politics has been mired for years in rivalry between Hasina and Khaleda. Both women are related to former national leaders, and they have alternated as prime minister for most of the past two decades. Khaleda, 70, was not immediately available for comment. She and leaders of her party have denied the accusations of responsibility for the fire saying it was politically motivated.

Overhaul urged for scandal-hit UN assembly president’s office uNITED NATIONs, MArch 30 (rEuTErs): A United Nations task force recommended in a report on Tuesday new ethical rules and financial disclosures for the office of the presidency of the U.N. General Assembly after a bribery scandal involving a former assembly head.

A U.S. investigation into the general assembly presidency, a rotating post filled by member states, has led to charges against seven people accused of participating in a scheme involving more than $1.3 million in bribes.

U.S. prosecutors have

accused John Ashe, former U.N. Ambassador from Antigua and Barbuda and 2013-2014 president of the General Assembly, of receiving bribes from Chinese businessmen including Macau real estate developer Ng Lap Seng.

Ashe has pleaded not guilty to tax fraud charges and Ng has pleaded not guilty to charges including bribery and money laundering.

Earlier this month, Francis Lorenzo, a suspended deputy U.N. Ambassador from the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with U.S. authorities.

Two other defendants, Sheri Yan and Heidi Hong Piao, pleaded guilty. Julia Vivi Wang, the newest defendant, has not yet entered a plea, and Jeff Yin, Ng’s assistant, pleaded not guilty.A spokesman for Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara declined to comment on the report.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon created a task force to improve transparency at the office of the assembly president, who is not a U.N. employee. He also requested an audit, due to be published soon.

“Allegations involving the president, which have

tarnished the image and reputation of the (U.N.), occurred in an environment where there were significant loopholes and blind spots in the operational arrangements for the president and the office,” the task force said in the report.

“Despite the high level of visibility of the office, there are insufficient transparency and accountability measures.”

The assembly’s current president, Mogens Lykketoft of Denmark, said in a statement that a committee of the 193-nation assembly would discuss the report on April 7.

sErANG, MArch 30 (rEuTErs): Indonesian rice farmer Usman has kept his 19-year-old son chained in the family’s tiny wooden hut for more than a month, reluctant to release the mentally disturbed boy for fear he might wander off and steal neighbours’ livestock.

The teenager is one of nearly 20,000 Indonesian victims of mental illness kept in shackles by families and government institutions, an illegal practice President Joko Widodo’s administration aims to stamp out by the end of 2017.

“He stole buffaloes and clothes,” Usman told Reuters as he sat beside his son Deden, in the hut in the district of Serang, on Indonesia’s island of Java. “We are the ones who are embarrassed, so I chained him up in case he disturbs the neighbours.”

Usman lets a doctor give his son a medical check-up every two weeks, but says he will not free the boy until he is “more stable”. In a programme launched this year, Indonesia sends teams of workers into often-remote hamlets to help free patients kept in chains and ensure they get the medical treatment they need.

“The social ministry and agencies across Indonesia recognise that there are still a lot of such cases, so we are determined to end the shackling practice

by December 2017,” said Social Affairs Minister Khofifah Indar Parawansa.

Jumiya, whose mother keeps her locked up in a wooden hut after her family said she was showing signs of a mental disorder, is handed food by her mother in Jambu village in Serang, Banten province, Indonesia on March 23.

(REUTERS Photo)

The world’s fourth most populous nation has outlawed such shackling for decades but the practice continues, particularly in poor areas.

In the village of Jambu, 80 km (50 miles) from the capital, Jakarta, 28-year-old Jumiya has spent more than four years locked in a dark wooden shed after showing signs of a mental disorder following her return from a job in Syria, her family said.

“People spend years locked up in chains, wooden stocks, or goat sheds because families don’t know what else to do, and the government doesn’t do a good job of offering hu-

mane alternatives,” said Kriti Sharma, the author of a report on the issue published this month by Human Rights Watch.

The group said shackling was sometimes linked to superstitious beliefs, with families attributing medical disorders such as schizophrenia or depression to the action of curses, black magic and evil spirits.

Human Rights Watch urged the government to develop more educational programmes on the treatment of mental illness, boost training for health care professionals and widen protections for disabled Indonesians.

Pakistan’s Christians call for protection and unity

Irfan Jamil, the bishop of Lahore, gestures during an interview with Reuters at his office in Lahore on March 29. (REUTERS Photo)

LAhOrE, MArch 30 (rEuTErs): A year ago, Wasif Masih, 16, had a narrow escape when a suicide bomber from a faction of the Pakistani Taliban blew himself up during Sunday

worship outside his church in a Christian neighbourhood in the eastern city of Lahore.

This past Easter Sunday, Wasif died when the same Taliban faction, Ja-

maat-ul-Ahrar, sent another suicide bomber to a Lahore park full of families, killing 72 people including at least 29 children.

Wasif was so close to the blast that the bomb-

er’s head fell at his feet, his mother, Zubaida Masih, said as the family mourned at their house in Nishtar Colony, a neighbourhood with both Christian and Muslim families.

“It was as if they were following him. He escaped them then but they came after him again, in the park,” Masih said. “If there was better security, this wouldn’t have happened.”

Two days after the attack, a sense of vulnerability is growing among members of the Christian community, who are calling on the government of Muslim-majority Pakistan to do more to protect them.

Christians, who number around 2 million in a nation of 190 million people, have been the target of a series of attacks in recent years.

Last March, suicide bombers struck Masih’s Christ Church and another close by, killing at least 14 people. In 2013, a pair of suicide bombers blew

themselves up outside a 130-year-old church in Peshawar after Sunday Mass, killing at least 78 people.

Now the Easter attack

by Jamaat-ur-Ahrar, which once swore support for Islamic State, has fuelled worries that militants in Pakistan are increasingly subscribing to the IS brand of ultra-sectarian violence against those perceived as infidels.

“Terrorists didn’t used to be so focused on our community. Now all their attention is on us,” said Irshad Ashnaz, the Christ Church vicar. “Perhaps it’s time for the government to turn their attention toward us also.”

“These people are roaming around freely and no one is stopping them,” Ashnaz said at the church, its windows cemented over after the attack.

Pope Francis condemned the attack as “hideous” and demanded that Pakistani authorities protect religious minorities.

“PEOPLE WHO LIVE TO DIE” Since the attack, Pakistan’s deadliest since the 2014 massacre of 134 school children at a military-run academy in Peshawar, authorities have launched a crackdown on Islamist militants in the Punjab province, the country’s richest and most populous and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s political heartland.

On Tuesday, a provincial minister said authorities had detained more than 5,000 militant suspects but later released most of them.

Punjab government spokesman Zaeem Qadri said the government had stepped up security at churches after the previous attacks, which was why militants had picked a park this time. He said over the past year, the government had uncovered more than 200 plots and arrested around 15,000 suspects.

“Parks are public plac-

es. On a public holiday there should have been more vigilance. But there was a gap,” Qadri said.

Christians “are as safe as anyone else. They are as safe as any other Pakistani is.”

Irfan Jamil, the bishop of Lahore, said the government was trying its best.

“There are people who live to live and there are people who live to die,” Jamil said. “How much protection is enough protection against such people?”

But he added, “There is always room for improvement. Many of us don’t feel that we are secure.”

UNKNOWN VICTIM On Tuesday, survivors lined the wards of Jinnah hospital in Lahore. The explosion wounded more than 300 people. Above each bed is a sign that says, ‘blast victim’, followed by the victim’s name.

One bed is only marked with the word “unknown.”

A three-year-old boy whose lungs were punctured and eyes gouged out is struggling to breathe through a tube. Visitors have placed flowers and juice packs next to his pillow.

“We don’t know who he is,” a nurse said as she held his hand. “Two days after the blast, no one has come looking for him.”

Amid the fear, many Christians called for unity and brotherhood.

At a vigil on Monday in Gulshan e Iqbal park, where the bomber struck, Father Jamal Albert said the message is “whether you are Christian, Hindu, Jewish or Muslim, you are unsafe and they are trying to break down our nation, destroy our sense of oneness, our sense of being Pakistanis”.

He added: “Rest assured we will not be deterred by such episodes.

This is our country just as much as anyone else’s. In fact we are more resolved than ever to go on.”

10

thursDAY 31•03•2016

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

cruyff 'belongs to whole world' – son Lanning leads Australia into

BarceloNa, March 30 (aFP): Dutch football great Johan Cruyff "belongs to the whole world", his son Jordi Cruyff said Tuesday as he visited a memorial in honour of the former Barcelona player and manager at Camp Nou. Cruyff, who is credited with reinvigorating the club and helping to launch its winning era, died on Thursday in his adopted city of Barcelona aged 68 after a five-month battle with lung cancer.

He chose to live his final days in privacy and his funeral was on Friday with just a few family and friends invited, his son Jordi Cruyff, dressed in mourning black, said. "We understood that Johan is not only ours, he belongs to the whole world," he said.

"As a family we are incredibly proud of how people have reacted and we are very touched and impressed," he added.

"Barca, Ajax and the Dutch national team were his footballing loves and so it's great that these three entities have shown such respect and support."

Barcelona said that since Saturday more than 50,000 mourners had filed past the spot where a banner hangs saying "Thanks Johan" to pay their respects to the club's legendary former player and coach.

Tuesday is the last day that the stadium is open for fans to pay their respects. It was also the first day that members of the Cruyff family were present.

Son of late Dutch football star Johan Cruyff, Jordi Cruyff gives a press conference at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona on March 29, 2016. (AFP Photo)

Barca to wear 'Gracias Johan' on shirts for Clasico

BarceloNa, March 30 (iaNS): FC Barcelona players will wear shirts with "Gracias Johan" or "Thank You Johan" during their La Liga Clasico derby match against Real Madrid to pay tribute to Dutch legend Johan Cruyff.

Cruyff died last week after suffering from lung cancer, reports Efe. Spanish newspaper AS reported that a 90,000 card "Gracias Johan" mosaic will Cruyff, who first moved to Barcelona from Ajax Amsterdam in 1973, is often listed among the greatest players ever, alongside Pele, Alfredo di Stefano, Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.

Earlier on Tuesday Barcelona coach Luis Enrique praised the club's former

also be displayed before the Clasico.

Barcelona, which leads La Liga standings, will face third-placed Real Madrid on April 2. "Gracias Johan" will replace the FIFA World Club Cup champion badge for one game only.

Ahead of the Clasico, a tribute video will also be shown on the video scoreboard at Camp Nou stadium, according to AS.

player and manager Johan Cruyff as having embodied "spectacular football and results", as he visited a memorial in honour of the Dutchman at Camp Nou on Tuesday.

"To talk about Cruyff is to talk about football at its best," said Enrique, who was accompanied by two

Afridi issues video apology for T20 flop

iSlaMaBaD, March 30 (aFP): Pakistan's under-fire captain Shahid Afridi on Wednesday issued a video message to supporters apologising for his team's early exit from the World Twenty20, but remained silent on his future following calls for him to retire. The 36-year-old has been expected to make an announcement on his future this week, but instead he took to Facebook and Twitter to issue a one-minute apology to the cricket-mad country. Pointing to the star on his Pakistan jersey, he said: "For this star, and these colours, when I come to a ground, I carry the weight of my people's hopes with me. "Today, I, Shahid Afridi, apologise to the whole nation for not being able to fulfil the hopes of myself and my team."

of Barcelona's star players Sergio Busquets and captain Andres Iniesta.

'Very important legacy' Barcelona's first team visited the memorial after training on Tuesday morning, during which the players observed a minute's silence in honour of Cruyff. "(Cruyff) leaves behind

a very important legacy, a legacy that his club will perpetuate, we want to copy and improve this style of play which combines results and a spectacular attacking football," said Enrique.

When Cruyff arrived at Barcelona the team were second bottom in the league. But they won 17 games in a row to win their first La Liga title in 14 years.

The relationship between player, club and fans became even stronger after he took over as head coach in 1988.

In an eight-year spell in charge he won four consecutive league titles, and Barcelona's first European Cup in 1992.

Spain's Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport on Tuesday posthumously awarded Cruyff its Gold Medal of the Royal Order of Sports Merit, one of Spain's top sports honours,.

The ministry said a ceremony will be held at a yet-to-determine date to official give the award to Cruyff's family.

Barcelona said a minute of silence would be observed in honour of the player, and a video tribute to his career will be shown, on Saturday at the Camp Nou before the club's league match against arch rivals Real Madrid.

The club's players will wear jerseys with the message "Thanks Johan" while the roughly 90,000 fans in the stands will hold up cards to spell out the same message.

women's World T20 final

Meg Lanning hits down the ground during the 1st semi-final of the Women's World T20 2016 between Australia and England in Delhi on March 30. (Getty Images)

New Delhi, March 30 (aFP): Captain Meg Lanning's aggressive half century helped holders Australia reach their fourth consecutive women's World Twenty20 final Wednesday after beating traditional rivals England by five runs in the first semi-final.

Put in to bat on a hot sunny afternoon in New Delhi, Australia posted a competitive 132 for six after Lanning's 50-ball 55 before their bowlers then restricted England to 127 for seven.

Openers Alyssa Healy and Elyse Villani laid a decent platform for Lanning to build on as England bowlers found it hard to contain the steady flow of boundaries.

Healy (25) and Villani (19) played useful cameos but their departure slowed the Australian charge at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium.

Lanning then took control, starting off cautiously and then changing gear to give the England bowlers a hard time.

Lanning, who led Australia to World T20 glory in 2014, registered her eighth T20 fifty as she hit six boundaries.

England tried to claw their way back into the game with some sharp fielding, including two runouts from direct hits in the outfield.

Natalie Sciver had Alex Blackwell trudging back to the dugout after hitting the stumps from deep midwicket, while another direct hit from long-on saw the back of Lanning.

England's reply got off to a healthy start as skipper Charlotte Edwards and Tammy Beaumont put on a 67-run opening stand.

Australia however kept their cool, and made the

Clash of the titans! Kohli v Gayle in T20 semi Virat Kohli

Chris Gayle

Remi Garde leaves Aston Villa

BirMiNghaM, March 30 (aFP): French manager Remi Garde has left Aston Villa by mutual consent, the Premier League basement sitters said on Tuesday. "The Club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Remi for all his efforts during a difficult period and wish him well in the future," said a club statement on the Villa website. Eric Black has taken over as acting manager until a full-time appointment can be made. Villa started the season with Tim Sherwood as manager but he was sacked in October after losing six consecutive matches, with the team winning just one of their opening 10 league games of the season.

Garde was appointed in November on a three-and-a-half-year deal, but has been unable to prevent their slide towards relegation. Villa sit bottom of the Premier League, 12 points from safety and nine behind their nearest rivals with just seven games remaining. Villa won only two league games under Garde's stewardship.

Man City's Demichelis charged over betting loNDoN, March 30 (aFP): Manchester City centre-back Martin Demichelis has been charged with misconduct in relation to betting, England's Football Association announced on Wednesday.

"It is alleged the player committed 12 breaches of FA Rule E8 concerning football matches between 22 January 2016 and 28 January 2016," the FA said in a statement. Argentina international Demichelis, 35, has until 1800 GMT on April 5 to respond to the charge. FA Rule E8 states that players must not bet "either directly or indirectly, or instruct, permit, cause or enable any person to bet on" any "result, progress or conduct of a match or competition" in which they participate or over which they have any influence.

Demichelis has made 29 appearances for City this season, most recently in their 1-0 Premier League loss at home to Manchester United.

breakthrough when legspinner Kristen Beams took the prized wicket of Edwards (31).

Beaumont (32) hung around for a while before falling to medium-pacer Megan Schutt in the 14th overs as the wheels started to come off the England chase.

Wicktkeeper-batswoman Sarah Taylor did try to inject life into the chase but her departure for 21 was a major blow to England's chances of repeating their 2009 title-winning prformance.

Down the order, Katherine Brunt did hit a boundary and a six to raise some hopes but Schutt got her cleaned up to shut the doors on England.

Australia will meet the winner of the second semifinal between West Indies and New Zealand in the title showdown in Kolkata on Sunday.

Peter Hutchison Agence France-Presse

C

hris Gayle is determined to grab the World Twenty20 limelight back from in-form Virat Kohli when the West Indies and India clash in a mouthwatering semi-final in Mumbai on Thursday.

The destructive opener smashed an unbeaten century, which included 11 sixes, in the West Indies' opening win against England but has only batted once since, making just four.

Kohli has been the star of the tournament so far, expertly guiding India through the group stages with a half-century against

Pakistan and 82 not out in a crunch win over Australia.

With the flat wicket at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium a dream for batsmen, the last-four showdown between the hosts and 2012 champions is set to be a battle of the big-hitters.

"I am looking to show what Chris Gayle is," Gayle warned ominously on Tuesday. "I have only batted twice but this (semifinal) is a perfect opportunity to actually start the tournament and try and pick up where I left off, get a big one for the team and put them in a winning position," he added.

The 36-year-old described Kohli, who is the top run-scorer left in the tourna-

ment with 184, as a "world beater" but insisted neither he nor the West Indies were concerned about individual players. "Chris Gayle will always be positive. It does not matter which bowler is bowling against Chris Gayle," he said. "Chris Gayle would attack. That's the nature of T20 cricket. And that's the nature of Chris Gayle.

"No names, just cricket ball, beat it as hard as possible," Gayle added.

India's coach Ravi Shastri said his bowlers were aware of the danger posed

by Gayle but were determined to tame him. "Bring it on. All our bowlers will target him," said Shastri in his eveof-match press conference.

The former Indian all-

rounder said Kohli was on his way to proving himself as one of the greats of the game after a lull in form.

"You have to give him the credit for really believing that he can be right up there with the best and for putting in the hard yards because let me tell you know one trains harder than Virat," said Shastri.

"Credit must be given to him for putting in that much of hard work and believing in his own ability."

Injury blows

India are looking to take another step on their quest to become the first team to win the World T20 twice, after their triumph in the inaugural 2007 edition, and

the first on home soil.

They are also bidding to give inspirational 34-yearold captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni -- who is thought to be close to announcing his retirement -the chance to out on a high.

India were stunned by New Zealand in their first match but picked up three straight wins to qualify second from Group Two. By contrast, the Windies won their opening three games to top Group One before being shocked by minnows Afghanistan.

Gayle believes India have the momentum but warned that "anything was possible". "India are the favourites. It is always going to be difficult to beat them here. But the West Indies are ready for an upset," he said.

The Windies preparations were dealt a blow with the announcement that Andre Fletcher, whose unbeaten 84 fired his team to victory over Sri Lanka, had been ruled out the rest of the tournament with a hamstring injury. Fletcher has been replaced by Lendl Simmons, who gets a second chance to take part having been originally named in the squad but having to withdraw on the eve of the tournament with a bad back. India have drafted in batsman Manish Pandey in place of allrounder Yuvraj Singh who has been ruled out of the tournament with an ankle injury picked up in Sunday's victory over Australia.

public discourse

Can India and Burma indeed change Nagas into Indians and Burmans?

G

od the creator of all the nations on earth, thundered through his Prophet Jeremiah saying: “Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the Leopard his spots? (Jer.13:23) Nagas would also like to challenge India and Burma saying: “Can you indeed change Nagas into Indians and Burmans by invasion and occupation of their lands?” If you can indeed do such a thing, than you would be greater then even God. In actual fact, none of us have been given the opportunity by our creator to decide on our national identity. No Angel or messenger of God had ever sought us in our mother’s womb to enquire as to what nationality we would like to become when we are born.

On the contrary, all of us that are born of women have been born with the national identity of the woman’s husband, who had,

in the first place, impregnated us with his national gene. If we look into the Bible, we will discover that it is not “we” (men), but “He” (God), who has created nations and given them their respective national identities, their respective periods and the boundaries of their habitations (See Acts 17:26& Duet 32:8). God therefore can claim that he is the author of all nations and challenge us saying: “Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the Leopard his spots?” What God is saying here can be paraphrased in this manner: “Can a man change his own nationality or the animal his own coat of skin?”

So many years ago in 1951,Nehru, the first Indian Prime Minister of India, refusing to recognize Nagas as a nation had thundered: “Even if the heaven falls and all the rivers in India flow red with blood, Nagas will never be given their independence.” But has such

boastful words spoken with such arrogance changed even a single Naga into an Indian despite 69 years of war and conflict?

By Oct 1955, Nehru had sent in thousands of his troops to deny the Nagas their rightful nationhood in the post colonial modern world. These troops were sent into Nagaland to claim that Nagas were Indians and Nagaland was Indian Territory. (The troops sent in 1955 are estimated by even Indian writers as more than 100,000). Eight months later, on May 13, 1956, Nehru went on to write to Medhi, the then Chief Minister of Assam thus: “From a Military point of view, some progress is being made on our side and no doubt this will continue… we shall review the situation from time to time and when it is necessary, we shall sent more forces…” (Sanjoy Hazarika, Strangers of the Mist, appendix G, p359) How many Indian soldiers did Nehru sent

to their deaths in the killing fields of Nagaland over his political lie that Nagas are Indians and Nagaland is Indian Territory? Also how many more Indian soldiers did successive Indian Prime Ministers of India sent to die in Nagaland after Nehru? Did all their vain deaths and sacrifices change one single Naga into an Indian? The relatives of those Indian soldiers who have died in Nagaland should demand full compensations from their own government rather than resigning to their deaths and thinking that their sons and husbands have died a hero’s death in Nagaland.

This is never the case because Nagas were never Indians and Naga territory was never a part of Indian Territory right from the creation of the world until Oct 1955 when Nehru sent in Indian troops to Invade Nagaland.

Therefore, so long as these un-invited Indian soldiers remain in Nagaland, there will never

be any solution to the Indo-Naga conflict.

Yes, even after six decades of Naga blood and Naga tears, shed for the defense of our God given identity and our God given lands, we Nagas will counter Nehru’s arrogant assertions by saying this: “That even if all the rivers in Nagaland flow red with Naga blood, Nagas will never become Indians or Nagaland ever become Indian territory.” This will be as impossible as for the Ethiopian to change the color of his skin.

As for any so called Nagas leaders who would sell the national identity of the Naga nation for any experimental purposes of a shared nationality with India, let them depart from Naga country and soil and settle down in India. We true Nagas will never allow these purchasable Nagas to sell our national birthright for their own political and economic benefits.

Kaka D. Iralu

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 31•03•2016

EntErtainmEnt

HritHik rosHan's "Affair With Pope" Tweet gets him into legal trouble

L

ooks like more legal trouble is in store for Hrithik Roshan. Sources say the actor has invited the wrath of a minority community over his tweet in January and has been slapped with a criminal notice for "hurting religious sentiments". The tweet in question read, "Ther r more chances of me having had an affair with d Pope dan any of d (Im sure wonderful)women d media hs ben naming (sic)."

A source says the notice was sent to Hrithik on Monday by Abraham Mathai, All India President of the Indian Christian Voice, an organisation representing the larger interests of the Christian com-

munity, including Roman Catholics, in India. The notice, which is in hitlist's possession, reads: "Our client Dr Abraham Mathai, who is a Christian by birth and faith... is extremely hurt by your disobedient and inexcusable comments, which has hurt the religious feelings and sentiments of majority of Christians across the world."

Speaking to hitlist, Mathai says, "We demand Mr Roshan recants his statement and issues an unconditional apology.

While we respect Mr Roshan's personal life including his right to choose who he wishes to be in a relationship with, we do take offense at dragging a religious head into it just so

Tali Angh and his band perform at a school in Mon district as part of the benevolence mission undertaken along with Fingerprint-design and event from March 28 to April 1. The Collaborated teams through their paper presentation and music encouraged the young people to care for the environment. The team emphasized that the destruction done due to coal and riverbed mining in Mon district is unimaginable. The team encouraged the students to be the agent and ambassador to spread the message of Conservation of Wildlife and Environment and create an impact to change the mindset of their community.

attention may be diverted, and the media glare move away. Such statements are irresponsible and not called for by a celebrity, thousands of whose fans are from the Catholic community and who believe that the Pope is their religious and revered head."

Mathai's lawyer Rizwan Siddiquee says the criminal notice has been sent under Section 295 A of the Indian Penal Code over Hrithik's "unwarranted and uncalled for comments made against the highly respected Pope Francis" on Twitter on January 28. "My client wants a written public apology from Hrithik Roshan within seven days," he adds.

Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover to get married on April 29!

Avicii announces retirement from touring in open letter

S

wedish DJ and producer Avicii has announced he is retiring from touring once his remaining 2016 shows are finished. Avicii, 26, made the announcement in a heartfelt open letter to fans on his website, saying he has "too little left for the life of a real person behind the artist", reported Billboard.

"Thank you for letting Source: NDTV me fulfill so many of my dreams. I will be forever grateful to have experienced and accomplished all

that I have with the help of the team around me and my beloved fans," he wrote. "My path has been filled with success but it hasn’t come without its bumps. I’ve become an adult while growing as an artist, I’ve come to know myself better and realise that there’s so much I want to do with my life."

"I know I am blessed to be able to travel all around the world and perform, but I have too little left for the life of a real person behind the artist. I will however never let go of music - I will

continue to speak to my fans through it, but I’ve decided this 2016 run will be my last tour and last shows.

Let’s make them go out with a bang!"

The DJ and producer concluded by saying he could never say never to coming back to music, adding, "I could be back ...but I won’t be right back." Avicii’s remaining live dates for 2016 include residencies in Las Vegas and Ibiza, as well as a slot at British dance festival, Creamfields in August.

Source: PTI

Oscar-winning actress Patty Duke dies

U

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British royal couple to attend Bollywood gala in Mumbai

A

Bollywood gala awaits Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton during their upcoming India visit next month. The couple will be present at a special evening with stars of India's flourishing Hindi film industry. The event on April 10 will be held at a hotel in Mumbai, and will raise money for charities helping street children, reports mirror.co.uk.

In Mumbai, which is India's financial capital, they will stay at the same hotel which was one of the targets of the devastating 2008 terror attacks. On their week-long visit to India and Bhutan, they will also meet children from the Mumbai slums during a game of cricket. They will also visit the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, recreating Princess Diana's visit to the wonder of the world in 1992.

Source: IANS

S actress Patty Duke, winner of an Oscar in 1963 and star of a TV show that bore her name, died on Tuesday at a hospital near her home in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, her agent said. She was 69. Mitchell Stubbs said on Twitter that the actress died from intestinal septicemia.

Anna Marie Duke, born in New York City in 1946, began acting at the age of seven under the guidance of husbandand-wife management team John and Ethel Ross, who changed her name to Patty. At the age of 16, Duke won an Oscar for best supporting actress for her role in the movie The Miracle Worker to become the youngest actress at the time ever to be honoured with that prize.

She had previously acted on Broadway in the theatre version of that work, playing the same blind, deaf and dumb teenager.

Starting in 1963 she starred in her like-named television programme, which was cancelled after three seasons. Among the honours she won were two

B Golden Globes and three Emmy Awards. Since 2004 her name has been immortalised on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

A singer and author as well as an actress, Patty Duke, who suffered from

bipolar personality disorder, was married four times. She is survived by husband Michael Pierce and son Sean Astin, whose father was her third spouse, actor John Astin.

Source: IANS

ipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover will be tying the knot on 29th of April. The news has been confirmed and the ceremony will be a private one.

They have been dating each other for over two years.

The actress, who has dated a few actors (Dino Morea, John Abraham and Harman Baweja) in the past and was shy of making the big commitment, has finally decided to marry her actor beau of two years Karan Singh Grover. The duo are tying the knot next month.

The mehendi will be held on April 28 at Villa 69, a lounge bar in Juhu, and the reception will be held at St Regis (formerly known as Palladium Hotel) in Lower Parel on April 29.

While Bipasha was always keen to have a grand wedding, this one will be small. Karan’s mother only recently gave her stamp of approval and his divorce too came through last month, so the couple feel a small wedding will be best under the circumstances.

While this is a first marriage for Bips, it is Karan’s third.

Source: Bollywood Life

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England enters WT20 Final Messi scores 50th Argentina

goal in 2-0 win over Bolivia

Jason Roy attempts the reverse sweep. (Getty Images)

NeW DeLhI, March 30 (aP): Opener Jason Roy smashed a quick-fire 78 as England beat New Zealand by seven wickets on Wednesday to reach the final of the World Twenty20.

Roy clobbered 11 fours and two sixes off 44 balls during his maiden T20 halfcentury, as England scored

159-3 in 17.1 overs after Ben Stokes (3-26) helped restrict New Zealand to 153-8.

Roy added 82 for the first wicket with Alex Hales (20) to all but take the tournament's first semifinal away from New Zealand.

Earlier, New Zealand lost the initiative as seven

wickets fell for 62 following a 74-run second-wicket partnership between Colin Munro (46) and captain Kane Williamson (32).

England, champion in 2010, will face the winner of the other semifinal between India and the West Indies in Mumbai on Thursday.

Valencia sack manager Neville C M Y K

BarceLONa, March 30 (reuters): Gary Neville was sacked as Valencia manager on Wednesday as the club brought an end to his fraught four-month spell in charge after the former England

and Manchester United defender had delivered only three league wins. The club, who sit 14th in La Liga on 34 points, will replace Neville with his assistant coach Pako Ayestaran until the end of the season. “Valencia have today rescinded their contractual relationship with Gary Neville as first team coach,” said a club statement.

"The club thanks Gary Neville for his work and wishes him the best luck in the future.”

Neville was announced as the shock successor to sacked coach Nuno Espirito Santo last December. In his 16 La Liga games in charge, Neville managed just three league wins, over Espanyol, Malaga and Granada, eight defeats and five draws. Gary’s brother Phil, who joined Valencia as assistant coach last year, is to remain at the club.

cOrDOBa, March 30 (reuters): Lionel Messi scored his 50th international goal to help Argentina beat Bolivia 2-0 in a 2018 World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

The win put Argentina third in the South American group with 11 points from six matches, two points behind joint leaders Ecuador and Uruguay.

Ecuador suffered their first loss in the group, going down 3-1 in Colombia, while Uruguay scored a 1-0 home win over Peru.

Argentina defender Gabriel Mercado, who scored the winner in Thursday’s 2-1 away victory over Chile, opened the scoring in the 21st minute against Bolivia.

Argentina were awarded a penalty in the 29th minute after Ronald Eguino fouled midfielder Ever Banega, and Messi made no mistake from the spot to net his 50th goal for Argentina, putting him within six of Gabriel Batistuta’s record.

“This (campaign) is very long and what’s important is that we won and remain on course,” Messi told TyC Sports. “I’m happy with goal number 50 but more because we won and this helps to keep growing.”

Argentina coach Gerardo Martino said it had been crucial to get the two wins.

“It was fundamental to get the six points,” he told TyC Sports of the two wins. “I think we played a serious match and won well.”

Argentina could have gone ahead after 10 seconds with a quick attack down the left from the opening kickoff but Angel Di Maria’s shot was blocked by goalkeeper Carlos Lampe and Banega hit the bar with the rebound. Di Maria limped off after half an hour and was replaced by Angel Correa.

Argentina squandered several other chances to score against a side they put 12 goals past in two friendlies last year. They are a point ahead of Colombia and Chile, who came from behind to beat Venezuela 4-1.

Brazil and Paraguay have nine points after their 2-2 draw in Asuncion. The top four teams in the 10-nation group qualify for the 2018 World Cup finals, while the fifth-placed side goes into an intercontinental playoff.

Argentina's Lionel Messi in action. (REUTERS)

Messi causes uproar in Egypt with boot donation

caIrO, March 30 (IaNs): Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has caused an uproar in Egypt after offering to donate his boots for a charity auction.

The Barcelona forward made the offer during an appearance on an Egyptian television programme, 'Yes, I am famous'. But Messi soon found that his statement, which was intended as a kind gesture, was loaded with insulting connotations in Arab culture.

In Arab countries, shoes are a symbol of disrespect or insult and Messi's gesture has unfortunately been misinterpreted by some people in Egypt as a national insult.

Said Hasasin, a member of the Egyptian parliament, appeared on television and donated his own shoe to the footballer as a mark of protest.

"We have never been humiliated during our seven thousand years of civilisation. I will hit you with the shoes, Messi," Hasasin said on an Egyptian television show. "This is my shoe. I donate it to Argentina."

One Egyptian Twitter user posted, "This is the most disgusting. He was paid thousands of dollars and at the end he donated his shoes and the stupid presenter was happy."

However, there is some amount of support for Messi as

well, with former Egypt international Mido defending the 28-year-old's intentions. "The most precious thing a writer owns is his pen... and the most precious thing a footballer owns is his shoes", the former AS Roma and Tottenham striker tweeted.

Mona El-Sharkawy, the journalist who conducted the interview with Messi also accused the Argentine's critics of distorting the truth.

"This is so false. It's a trend on our show that we take a souvenir from our guest and put it up for auction for charity. I am surprised. I didn't say we would be giving it to charity in Egypt or any other place," she explained.

17th LSU Martyr’s Trophy from Apr 14 Goetze leads Germany to win over Italy

WOkha, March 30 (MexN): The 17th Edition of Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) Martyr’s Soccer tournament will commence from April 14 onwards at Local Ground, Wokha Town, under the theme “Goal for oneness”. Mhathung Yanthan, Director Land Resources, Govt. of Nagaland, will be the chief guest of the inaugural function, a press release from the LSU informed.

The tournament is being organized every year in memory of Late Chumdamo Tungoe and Late Thungkhomo Ezung, who laid down their lives on April 14, 1977 in police firing at Wokha town during a silent procession organized by the then Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) in protest against the “inhuman and barbaric act” meted out to the then SDO (civil) Wokha, Ngur Khuma Mizo,

by Assam Police and Assam Forest Guards at Ralan Area.

LSU has informed all interested teams/clubs/colonies/villages and range/circle/area students’ organizations under Wokha, to collect registration form from Eric Sports Goods, Wokha, Near Police Point and Adidas Showroom, Near Nzanchi counter. For more information, contact- 9856443374/9862328361.

Disputed Dutch winner keeps England in check

LONDON, March 30 (reuters): England came crashing down to earth with a frustrating 2-1 loss to an inexperienced Netherlands side at Wembley on Tuesday, failing to build on their defeat of world champions Germany last weekend.

Second-half goals from Dutch forward Vincent Janssen and substitute Luciano Narsingh cancelled out a Jamie Vardy strike in the first half, sapping the optimism around Roy Hodgson's side ahead of this June's European Championship finals.

On paper it should have been a routine victory for England -- a team undefeated at Wembley for 2-1/2 years, brimming with Premier League talent and up against an injury-hit, experimental Dutch outfit that failed to qualify for the Euros.

But history was never on their side. Barring one win in 1996, they have not tasted success against the Netherlands in more than 30 years.

This time they may have reason to feel aggrieved, with striker Janssen appearing to shove defender Phil Jagielka in the build-up to Narsingh's winner.

Yet from the start England struggled to rekindle the attacking flair that saw them stage a second-half fightback to beat Germany 3-2 on Saturday.

"I don't think the decisions were particularly favourable to us. The second one in particular was exceptionally harsh," Hodgson told reporters.

"But I was more disappointed that we did not reach the level of intensity or creativity that we did on Saturday night."

MuNIch, March 30 (reuters): Germany attacking midfielder Mario Goetze's goal and overall performance in their 4-1 victory over Italy on Tuesday will hopefully boost his confidence as he struggles for playing time at Bayern Munich, coach Joachim Loew said.

The 23-year-old has been largely overlooked by Bayern coach Pep Guardiola since returning from a five-month injury break in February, with speculation over a possible move back to Borussia Dortmund gaining traction in recent weeks.

"Mario earned this (performance) himself," Loew told reporters. "I can understand why he may be playing less at Bayern at the moment because they have a great squad and he was injured for a long time.

"But Mario has worked hard in the past weeks, he did individual training sessions to get back to his best and I hope the game today gave him the self-confidence he needs for the for the coming weeks."

Goetze, who scored Germany's winning goal in the 2014 World Cup fi-

Germany's Mario Goetze scores the second goal against Italy. (REUTERS)

nal, has never held down a regular starting spot under Guardiola despite his bigmoney move from Dortmund in 2013.

Loew has kept faith with Goetze, however, and the gifted player paid him back by heading in Germany's second goal on Tuesday and then helping set up their third with a jawdropping flick that eventually saw Jonas Hector score.

"It was important for me to play again," Goetze told reporters. "I am very happy to have been on the pitch and it is just great to feel that my coach is trusting me. This means a lot for me at the moment."

It is not the first time Goetze's future at Bayern has been in doubt with the player mainly left on the bench as the Bavarians charge towards a treble of

titles. He had also complained about his limited playing time at the start of the season.

Asked about his future plans, Goetze, whose contract with Bayern runs out in 2017, remained coy.

"For me it is important to play because that is when I am happy," he said.

"Everything else will come by itself and there's no need to talk about that."

England's Ross Barkley attempts an overhead kick. (Reuters Photo)

England had the lion's share of possession in the opening exchanges but it took until the 41st minute for Vardy to tap his side ahead after right back Kyle Walker found space on the right-hand side of the area and nicked the ball across the face of goal.

The goal -- England's 100th in the four-year tenure of manager Hodgson -- appeared to liven up the crowd, who had little to rouse them early on other than a moving ovation to legendary Dutch forward Johann Cruyff, who died last week.

There were defensive lapses from both sides on the wet Wembley surface, hinting that the game could

swing either way.

So it was a ramshackle Dutch side -- without reliable veterans such as Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben -- that levelled the score shortly after the break when defender Danny Rose gave away a penalty for a handball.

Janssen fired the 50thminute spot kick high into the net, his first goal for his country.

"England maybe were better, they had more of the ball and we had to defend. That is normal. We are missing 14 players and are a very young team," Dutch coach Danny Blind said.

England had some chances of their own to regain the lead. An acrobatic

leap from Dutch keeper Jeroen Zoet stopped a swerving long-range effort from Vardy before substitute defender Nathaniel Clyne thumped another scoring chance at the stopper.

Ultimately it took a contentious incident to help separate the two sides, leading to long protestations from England's players and booing from the home support.

"It really is a high followed by a low," said Hodgson.

England's next game is against Turkey in Manchester on May 22. They kick off their campaign in the Euros against Russia on June 11, having also drawn Slovakia and Wales in Group B.

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