November 27th, 2015a

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friDAY • November 27 • 2015

DIMAPUR • Vol. X • Issue 323 • 12 PAGes • 4

T H e

ESTD. 2005

P o W e R

That is true wisdom, to know how to alter one’s mind when occasion demands it — Russia seeks economic revenge against Turkey over jet

RTA notifies on traffic regulations in Kohima

PAGe 9

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

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Vote on www.morungexpress.com sMs your answer to 9862574165 Are you satisfied with the Nagaland State govt’s initiative for a new recruitment policy that is fair, transparent and judicious? Why? Yes

no

others

Dimapur and Peren power shut down on November 28

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DimAPur, November 26 (mexN): Office of the Executive Engineer, Electrical Transmission Division, Dimapur has informed the public of Dimapur and Peren districts that there will be power shut down between 8 am to 11 am on November 28 (Saturday) to undertake urgent maintenance work at the 132/66/33Kv Sub-station, Nagarjan, Dimapur. All consumers have therefore been requested to co-operate and bear with the department, informed a press release issued by Er Atoho Jakhalu, Executive Engineer, Electrical Transmission Division, Dimapur on Thursday.

58 Congress members resign DimAPur, November 26 (mexN): Congress party members under 2-Dimapur-II A/C comprising of 58 individuals representing the ACCC, AMCC, AYC and polling booth tendered their resignations from the party on Thursday. Informing this, SI Tangit, ACCC president 2-Dimapur II said the members has unanimously resolved to follow its leader SI Jamir, Advisor, Urban Development and also extended their unflinching support.

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Terence

India in commanding position against Proteas on Day Two

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PAGE 12

nagaland MP Khekiho Zhimomi is no more

New Delhi, November 26 (mexN): Khekiho Zhimomi, Nagaland state’s lone Rajya Sabha MP, died at the All Indian Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi here on Thursday morning due to a heart ailment. He was 68.

“He was admitted to AIIMS three days ago for severe heart issues. His health deteriorated and he died today (Thursday) morning at 6:00am,” one of his daughters told IANS. Zhimomi’s body arrived in Dimapur on Thursday eveHow do you say hornbill ning via a chartered flight.

Born on February 19, festival in nagamese? Er.. er ah.ek dum tangor bazzar! 1947, Zhimomi graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from PDTA annual St Joseph College, Darmeet-cum-picnic jeeling. Elected from 4th The annual meeting- Ghaspani-I A/C, Zhimomi Minister for Induscum-picnic of the was tries and Commerce for Phek District Timber two terms (1989-1992 and Association in asso- 2003-2008). From 1993 to ciation with the Naga- 1998, he was the elected land Timber Traders MLA from Zunheboto. Zhiwas elected as NagaUnion will be held on momi land state’s MP to the Rajya November 28 at TL Sabha in 2008.

Angami Park, New He had recently visited Chumukedima, at 11 Myanmar with National a.m. PDTA invites Security Advisor Ajit Doval the signing of the peace all timber traders & for agreement between severfarmers operating in al insurgent groups and the Nagaland and Mani- Myanmar government.

Zhimomi is survived by pur to positively athis wife, Khezheli Zhimotend the event as ismi, two sons and six daughsues like taxation and ters. The funeral service for plantation will be dis- the former MP will be held cussed on that day. on Friday, November 27, 11:00am at the Agri Expo, Sanyü Dukru President PDTA 4th Mile, Dimapur.

The Morung Express Poll QuEsTion

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Khekiho Zhimomi’s death a setback to the naga peace process Amitava Mukherjee IANS

Khekiho Zhimomi (File Photo)

Funeral November 26, 27, Funeralservice serviceon on November 11:00am at Dimapur 11:00am at Agri Expo, Dimapur Nagaland Governor, CM express grief

Nagaland state Governor, PB Acharya has expressed grief at the sudden demise of Khekiho Zhimomi. “His contribution for the welfare of the people of Nagaland as an MLA and Cabinet Minister for the Government of Nagaland since 1989 and as a Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) from 2008 till date will be remembered for ever,” the Governor stated in a press note. He lauded Zhimomi as a social worker before joining politics and a “good friend.” In his demise Nagaland has lost a tall and prominent leader, he stated.

The Governor conveyed his sympathy to the members of the bereaved family and prayed that his soul may rest in peace.

Nagaland state Chief Minister, TR Zeliang recalled that Zhimomi was a “staunch regionalist and my decade long association with him has been quite memorable.” “He had a very powerful personality, and he had always been a father figure in the government.

Ever willing and ready to give advice and suggestions on matter of party as well as governance in the state, I had always looked up to him in the last one and a half years or so of my taking over the reins of responsibility of the state,” the CM said.

He lamented that a void has been created in the political firmament of Naga politics. The CM expressed sympathies to the bereaved family, and prayed for solace and comfort in this hour of grief.

It can be said with a fair amount of certainty that with the death on Thursday of Khekiho Zhimomi, the lone Rajya Sabha member from Nagaland, the central government’s peace initiative in the insurgency affected state may suffer a serious setback.

In spite of the many controversies that dogged his political career Zhimomi was able to make his presence felt in the corridors of power in New Delhi, which is considered by many northeastern citizens as an “alien land”.

Zhimomi’s absence in Nagaland politics will be felt primarily on two fronts: the Naga Peoples Front (NPF) led Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN)

and the central governments stalled initiative of concluding a peace agreement with the insurgents.

Although he always remained a part and parcel of democratic parliamentary politics, there always remained a murmur about his subterranean connections with the insurgent outfits, particularly the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Issac-Muivah) faction. His detractors never failed to point out that his over identification with the NDA government at New Delhi might have been instrumental behind its somewhat hasty conclusion about the NSCN(I-M)’s indispensability in Nagaland affairs.

But the man’s greatest quality was his zeal and endeavour. An alumnus of St. Joseph’s college Darjeeling, Zhimomi was a suc-

cessful industrialist and left his mark in many areas like packaged drinking water, construction, timber, food processing units and the like.

This is a rare quality in a state which has still not been able to come fully out of primitive agricultural practices.

He remained a member of the state legislative assembly on quite a few occasions and became a minister too. He had six daughters, two sons and eight grand children, a large family on the whole. But the family too has left its mark in Nagaland’s sociopolitical life. Zhimomi’s eldest daughter is married to Neiphiu Rio, a former chief minister of the state and now the lone Lok Sabha member from Nagaland.

But the otherwise gifted man might have done better had he maintained a

balanced connection with all the insurgent groups, a reality in today’s Nagaland which nobody can deny.

Among the politicians of Nagaland, Zhimomi will always be remembered as a “soft” one. He recently travelled to Myanmar with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval for assisting in the peace process there knowing fully well that the venture might make him somewhat unpopular in his home state. Although his role in Nagaland’s democratic politics may not always be called constructive, yet it cannot be denied that he was one of the strong pillars that parliamentary democracy could put up in a hostile atmosphere.

Amitava Mukherjee is a senior journalist and commentator. The views expressed are personal.

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Rajya Sabha adjourns after death of sitting MP New Delhi, November 26 (PTi): Rajya Sabha was today adjourned for the day as a mark of respect to sitting member Khekiho Zhimomi of Nagaland People’s Front, who died here this morning.

When the House met on the opening day of the winter session, Chairman Hamid Ansari mentioned the passing away of 69-year old Zhi-

momi. An active social worker who strived for upliftment of weaker and backward sections of society, Zhimomi represented the state of Nagaland in the Upper House for two terms from July 2008 to April 2010 and from April 2010 till date.

“In passing away of Khekiho Zhimomi, the country has lost a distinguished Parliamentarian, an able

administrator and a dedicated social worker,” Ansari said. The House stood in silence as mark of respect in the memory of Zhimomi and three other former members - Ram Kapse, Rudra Pratap Singh and N Rajendran. Ansari said as a mark of respect to the passing away of a sitting member, the House stands adjourned for the day.

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Former Minister T Sentichuba passes away; to be laid to rest today

DimAPur, November 26 (mexN): Former Nagaland state Minister and senior Congress leader, T Sentichuba passed away on Wednesday evening. He was 80. The funeral for the former Minister was held on Thursday at 11:00 am at his residence in Dimapur, after which his mortal remains was taken to his native village, Mongsenyimti. He will be laid to rest tomorrow.

He was first elected to the state Assembly in 1969 from Yisemyong, now Angetyongpang Assembly constituency on United Front Nagaland ticket and later changed to United Democratic Front. He was elected six times from the same constituency. Sentichuba,

who had joined the Congress in 1998, was also the former president of the Ao Students Conference during 1965-67.

Nagaland state Chief Minister, TR Zeliang expressed pain at the passing away of T Sentichuba and said: “I shall always cherish my years of association with him in various capacities when we both served under the Chief Ministership of SC Jamir. I recall my acquaintance with late Sentichuba and fondly remember him as a humble person who was always cheerful and ever ready to advice and guide his younger colleagues. His political maturity and sagacity were qualities we all appreciated and admired.”

In his death I have lost a friend and

mentor, he added. The CM conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that “the Almighty will grant you comfort and strength at this moment of great grief.”

MP from Nagaland state to the Lok Sabha, Neiphiu Rio meanwhile stated that Sentichuba was an ardent and dedicated leader who had served the society in different capacities since his youth. “His contributions for the well-being of the Naga society will be remembered for a long time to come. His demise is a great loss to the Ao community in particular and Naga people in general,” Rio said, while expressing his condolences to the bereaved family.

Alert on H1N1 Influenza

DimAPur, November 26 (mexN): Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India (GoI) has communicated that the Influenza A H1N1 Virus that caused the pandemic in 2009, now continues to circulate as a seasonal Influenza virus causing sporadic outbreaks in different part of the country. Influenza A H1N1 cases are currently being reported from states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Telangana.

Accordingly, the Department of Health & Family welfare, Nagaland has also initiated measures for the surveillance of H1N1 Influenza cases report of

which is sent to GoI on a daily basis. All the district hospitals and health units have been alerted for necessary action. Arrangement for availability of medicines through Schedule ‘X’ chemist is also being undertaken through drug control wing of the department.

In this regard, the health department has requested the public to be vigilant and report any suspected cases to the nearest health centre for timely medical care.

For any queries on H1N1 Flu, all concerned have been asked to contact: 8413095255 (24x7 helpline). E-mail ID: nlssu.idsp@nic.in

Nitish announces liquor ban in Bihar

PATNA, November 26 (iANs): Bihar will go dry from April 1, 2016, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced on Thursday. The chief minister made the announcement -a part of his election pledge -- at an official function to mark Prohibition Day here.

He said the poorest of the poor had been consuming liquor, badly hitting their families and their children’s education. Increasing liquor consumption was also a major cause for domestic violence, particularly against women, and had contributed to a rise in crimes.

“Women are suffering more than anyone else due to increasing liquor consumption,” he said. An official at the chief minister’s office said Nitish Kumar took the decision after a high-level meeting

with officials here. In July, Nitish Kumar had declared that prohibition would be imposed if he retained power in the assembly elections. Bihar Excise and Prohibition Minister Abdul Jalil Mastan had earlier said that the state government would soon take steps to impose a liquor ban.

Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sushil Kumar Modi on Wednesday vowed to support a liquor ban. The decision is expected to derail the government’s financial health. The excise department went into an overdrive in 2007 following a new policy and started issuing licences for marketing liquor across the state. The revenue collection of excise department registered a more than 10fold jump, from Rs.319 crore in 2005-06 to Rs.3,650 crore in 2014-15.

The wreckage of the ill fated helicopter that crash-landed at Meluri on november 24, 2015 is seen on the back of a logger’s shaktiman truck near Chizami, Phek today. six persons — four passengers and two pilots — had a narrow escape when the Pawan Hans chopper they were flying in met with an accident while landing. The chopper, a Dauphin, was damaged and the six on board escaped with minor injuries. Photo courtesy: Social media

Dialogue vital to avert violence in God’s name: Pope Francis

NAirobi, November 26 (reuTers): Pope Francis said on Thursday in Kenya, a country that has seen a spate of attacks

by Islamist militants, that dialogue between religions in Africa was essential to teach young people that violence in God’s name was unjustified.

Bridging divisions between Muslims and Christians is a main theme of his first tour of the continent that also takes him to Uganda, which like Kenya has seen a number of Islamist attacks, and the Central African Republic, riven by sectarian conflict.

Starting his first full day in the Kenyan capital, Francis met Muslim and other religious leaders before saying an open-air Mass for tens of thousands of rain-drenched people who sang, danced and ululated as he arrived in an open popemobile.

“All too often, young people are being radicalised in the name of religion to sow discord and fear, and to tear at the very fabric of our societies,” he told about 25 religious leaders.

Inter-religious dialogue “is not a luxury. It is not something extra or optional, but essential,” he told them, stressing that God’s name “must never be used to justify hatred and violence.”

He referred to Somalia’s al Shabaab Islamists’ 2013 attack on Nairobi’s Westgate shopping mall and this year’s assault on Garissa university. Hundreds of people have been killed in the past two years or so, with Christians sometimes singled out by gunmen.

The chairman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims, Abdulghafur ElBusaidy, called for cooperation and tolerance. “As

people of one God and of men,” speaking in a nation this world, we must stand rattled by a series of corup and in unison,” he told ruption scandals. the pope.

President Uhuru Kenyatta, a Catholic who atCONTRASTS tended the Mass, reshufFrancis’s African tour fled his cabinet this week is also addressing the con- after several ministers were tinent’s fast-growing Cath- embroiled in graft allegaolic population, which is tions. expected to reach half a bilWhen not in his popelion by 2050. mobile, the pope, who has A third of Kenya’s 45 shunned many of the perks million people are Catho- at the Vatican, was driven lics. Tens of thousands of in a Honda car, starkly difthem gathered in pouring ferent to the Mercedes and rain from before dawn to other luxury vehicles used attend the pope’s open-air by top officials in Kenya Mass in central Nairobi. where many people live in Representatives of Ke- city slums or villages withnya’s tribes ascended the out electricity. papal altar platform to read Giving his address at prayers, their native dress Mass in a sodden sports contrasting with that of field at Nairobi University, bishops in Western litur- the pope urged youths on gical vestments just feet a continent with a large away. young population to resist In his homily at the the “new deserts created Mass, Francis urged the by a culture of materialfaithful “to resist practices ism and indifference” and which foster arrogance in build a more just society.

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RTA notifies on traffic regulations in Kohima

kohIMa, noveMber 26 (DIPr): The Regional Transport Authority (RTA) has notified the following Parking and No Parking areas and one way in addition/modification to earlier notified areas/locations.

Vehicles shall be allowed to be parked only on one side, i.e. on the valley side of the road in the following locations/ routes:-Census Directorate junctions via Hotel Legacy towards the exit near High School junctions -Vehicles are allowed parking only on the right side of the road wherever permitted; NSF Martyrs Park junction via Bethel Hospital to PHQ junction vehicles are allowed parking only on the left side of the road wherever permitted; Mhonkhola-AG junction towards BSNL office via SDO PHE office - vehicles are allowed parking only on the right side of the road wherever permitted;

AIR to old/new Minister Hill road - vehicles are allowed to be parked only on the left side of the road wherever permitted.

Vehicles shall be allowed to be parked only on one side, i.e. on the hill side of the road in the following locations/routes: Upper Paramedical Colony junction towards Ladys Mile Road via Mizo Church below Red Cross building vehicles are allowed parking only on the left side of the road wherever permitted; New Market via Pentecostal Church towards NSF junction - vehicles are allowed parking only on the left side of the road wherever allowed.

No-Parking shall be applied on both side of the road on the following routes between 8:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M on all Government working days: Fira Hotel junction to Paramedical Colony existing at NH-29.

Vehicles shall not be allowed to proceed towards NSF Martyrs Park from PHQ junction via Bethel Hospital. No entry rules to be applied.

The Notification stated that the rules will be brought into force with immediate effect and any vehicles found violating these rules shall be towed away by the Traffic Police and the cost of which including penalties therof shall be borne by the owner of the concerned vehicle.

The Notification further informed all concerned that as and when checking is carried out defaulters would be penalized as per law and the ignorance or non preinformation of the same shall not be taken as an excuse.

This Notification was issued by the Chairman RTA & Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, Rovilatuo Mor, IAS on November 26.

Water Treatment Plant for Kohima Morung Express News Kohima | November 26

To enhance the water storage capacity of Kohima water supply system and improve quality of supplied water, the Water Treatment Plant was commissioned on November 26 at Jotsoma

by SI Jamir, Adviser Urban Development.

“With the commissioning of this Water Treatment Plant the citizens of the City will now have access to safe, hygienic and potable water,’” stated SI Jamir who also shared the problem of acute shortage of water supply which needs the requirement of “demand of city sufficient quantity bulk water supply” to solve the acute shortage and also to sustain the future.

Jamir also assured that the Government is making all efforts to solve the problem of water and in this direction negotiation with the source owners and stakeholders are on-going to allow to source water. With Kohima being selected as one of the Smart Cities of India, rapid infrastructure development is required within a few years. Jamir announced that the Govern-

SI Jamir, Adviser Urban Development speaking at the Water Treatment Plant commissioning held on November 26 at Jotsoma. (DIPR Photo)

ment of Nagaland with loan assistance from the ADB have already taken up infrastructure developments in the service sector like water supply, solid waste management, sewage management, etc in which the improvement of the Kohima water supply system comes under the development which included construction of 17 reservoirs in and around Kohima City and also the refurbishment of this Water Treatment Plant.

“The existing water supply network of the City is also being revamped with a new network system and covering the entire City under ADB loan. I am also

made aware that the Government is currently taking up a project to bring water to the City through pumping,” informed Jamir who further requested the PHED to complete the project on priority so that citizens of Kohima are relieved from acute shortage.

Through the ADB loan, a scientific solid waste management facility is being developed at Lerie with capital investment exceeding Rs. 40 crores and which will soon be inaugurated.

Also to address the sewage issues, a sewage treatment plant will also be developed for the City. Jamir was of the view that the basic

DC Mkg notifies on establishment & foundation of Mkg town

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Mokokchung, no veMber 26 (DIPr): Amidst speculation over the year of the establishment and foundation of Mokokchung town, Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung, Sushil Kumar Patel has made it clear that the Government of British India had agreed to the setting up of the new Mokokchung Sub Division on January 28, 1890 and eventually the Government of Assam formally announced it on

28 February 1890 as a Sub Division with A.W. Davis as the first Sub Divisional Officer at Mokokchung.

Sushil Kumar Patel in a press release issued on 24th November 2015 said, the Naga Hills District was created in 1866 by the Government of British India with its headquarter at Chumukedima then called Samaguting. In 1875 the Lotha region was annexed to the district.

An administrative centre was established at Wokha;

this centre was shifted to Kohima in 1879.

Kumar further said that the Ao region was fully annexed into the Naga Hills district late in 1888. The extension of the northern territories of the district necessitated the shift of the sub divisional headquarter from Wokha to Mokokchung for more effective control. A formal sanction was obtained in 1889 to establish the Ao sub division of the Naga Hills dis-

trict with its headquarters at Mokokchung leaving Wokha to the charge of Tihsildar (present rank of Extra Assistant Commissioner).

The Government of Assam finally announced it on 28 February 1890 with A.W. Davis as the first Sub Divisional Officer at Mokokchung. Thus “the 28 February 1890 is taken to be the date of the establishment of Mokokchung as a Sub Division and also of the foundation of the town” Mokokc-

hung DC said.

Laying to rest the speculation over establishment and foundation of Mokokchung town, Patel said A.W. Davis was continuing his posting from Wokha where he was serving since 1886 as per incumbency list maintained by the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung. He was also the fourth SDO (C) to be posted to the Sub Division. DC Mokokchung further said the incumbency list main-

tained in the SDO (C) Sadar Mokokchung and at the DC’s Bungalow both start in 1880 when an officer to the Sub Division was first posted to Wokha. However the date of the establishment of Mokokchung as a Sub Division is taken as 1890 when it was formally announced and the first Sub Divisional officer was posted.

“Thus we are observing 125 years of the creation of Mokokchung town in 2015” Patel said.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Pensioners informed on C M Y K

Though it saddens our hearts that he is no more with us, we are thankful for the memories, and are joyful that he is in a better place today.

We would like to take this time to acknowledge and thank each and every one who stood by and supported us during our hour of need and bereavement. We would especially like to thank the following: 1) Doctors and Nurses of Zion Hospital & Research Centre, Dimapur 2) Changki Union, Dimapur 3) Island Colony Council 4) Island Colony Youth Club 5) Sinai Ministry, Dimapur 6) Excise Department, Dimapur 7) Friends and Relatives Though we are unable to personally thank After a brief time of sickness, our dear brother each one of you, we pray that you will be and son MR. IMTIMENBA LONGCHARI abundantly blessed in return. went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Mother, Brothers, Sisters, In-Laws and Relatives November 19, 2015.

FUNERAL SERVICE

Pension Database SMS

Dept requested for timely submission of all retirement related documents

kohIMa, noveMber 26 (Mexn): AG (A&E) has requested all retired Government employees once again to record their personal mobile numbers in the pension documents to enable this Office to intimate them on the progress of their pension cases through SMSs. The SMSs will be triggered through Pension Database SMS gateway No.9402739265 and since this number is integrated with the system, pensioners are requested not to call this number but to note it down as all SMSs will be initiated through this number. SMSs will be sent during the following stages: When confirmation on the pension case is received;

When the case is sent back to the department due to observation/objections; When the pension case is completed.

Also, all Heads of Department in the state government are requested once again to ensure timely submission of all retirement related documents (that is, six months before the date of retirement) to avoid harassment to retired officials at various processing stages. The office as of now has been fully sensitized and is geared to settle all cases within the stipulated two months period as per commitments given in our “Citizen’s Charter”.

All retired State government officers and officials are informed that pension and GPF Final payment cases settled upto the month of October 2015 have been uploaded on the AG Nagaland website. Pensioners may log on to this Office web-site at

Kohima Lerie Panchayat resolves

H. KHEKIHO ZHIMOMI

Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Son of Lt. Hezukhu Zhimomi, Head Dobashi (M.B.E) Sheyipu Village, Zunheboto, Nagaland

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Born: - 19th February 1946 Early Education: Kohima Graduated: - St. Joseph College, Darjeeling BA (Political Science) 1989 -1992- Minister, Industries & Commerce, 4th Ghaspani-I A/C 1993 -1998- MLA Zunheboto 2003 -2008- Minister, Industries & Commerce 4th Ghaspani-I A/C 2008-Till Date-MP (Rajya Sabha) 69 years survived by wife Mrs. Khezheli Zhimomi, Two (2) sons and Six (6) daughters.

Time: 11:00 Am VeNUe: AGRi eXPO (4TH miLe) DimAPUR

kohIMa, noveMber 26 (Mexn): The Lerie Panchayat during its executive meeting held on November 24 dealt with various pressing issues for the welfare of the colony and the public of Kohima.

Panchayat Colony, Kohima Chairman, James Liezietsu in a press release stated that the Panchayat has taken note of unlawful activities and disturbances by outsiders in the colony. Night time revelers are informed to immediately cease and desist from such activities within the colony. Defaulters will be apprehended, their names and vehicle numbers will be exposed and any other penalties may be imposed by the Panchayat. The onset of festive season is expected to generate more activity in the helipad and appeals to all vehicular drivers to observe speed limits, considering the condition of the road and the public on the roads.

The Lerie Panchayat is grateful to all residents for the co operation and participation in the social work, especially the youth and women organisation of the colony. The Panchayat organised the social work to have a cleaner neighbourhood and welcome the festive season in the right spirit. The Panchayat sincerely appeal against littering the colony, parties engage in cable laying activities are requested to respect the concern and efforts of the colony.

www.agnagaland.gov.in by clicking at Felicitation and PENSION or GPF Felicitation or by directly clicking on the Sticky Note written “Click here to view list of settled PENSION/GPF final payment cases”. The list has also been put up for display at the Public Relation Cell and can be view on any working days during Office hours.

For immediate clarification and redressal of their grievances, aggrieved Pensioners are requested to write directly to the Deputy Accountant General (A&E) Kahoto J Yepthomi via email at kahoto_j@yahoo. co.in or agaenagaland@ cag.gov. in or through a handwritten letter on the address given below.viz, Kahoto J Yepthomi, IAAS, Deputy Accountant General (A&E), Office of the Accountant General (A&E) Kohima::Pin No.797001, Nagaland.

infrastructures developments under ADB program will create an improved environment and increased access to better urban services in the City for the wellbeing of the citizens.

A technical report shared by Er. Krosü Rhetso, Additional Program Director, SIPMIU informed that the project which comes under ‘Refurbishment of Kohima Water Supply Scheme’ is a sub project of the North Eastern Region Capital Cities Development Investment Program (NERCCDIP) jointly funded by Government of India and Asian Development Bank (ADB). The refurbishment

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works constitute of construction of 18 RCC water tanks and renovation of water treatment plant at Jotsoma. The project was carried

by M/s Abhiram Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. Hyderabad while the total costs for the project was Rs. 826 lakh.

Motsuthung Lotha, Program Director, SIPMIU who delivered the vote of thanks appreciated the villagers of Jotsoma village for rendering service to Kohima town selflessly despite of the many issues that continues to crop up.

Er. Kevisekho Kruse in his speech emphasized the need for awareness among the mass on the dangers of poor quality of water and sanitation which leads to many diseases. “Sufficiency of water alone is not enough and not good for health.

What is more important is safe drinking.” stated Er. Kruse who also informed that Nagaland strictly adhere to the standards of World Health Organisation and the Bureau of Indian Standard. The Chief Engineer further assured that the PHED will try its level best to provide good service delivery and quality water supply to the people.

Hoshepu EAC HQ new office building inaugurated

kohIMa, noveMber 26 (DIPr): The new office building for Hoshepu EAC HQ was inaugurated on November 24 by Parliamentary Secretary for Soil & Water Conservation, Pukhayi Assumi. Unveiling the monolith as the chief guest Pukhayi Sumi said that Hoshepu is a place of ‘reminiscence’. “It reminds people of the 1st War that broke out between the Indian Army and the Naga Underground during 1955 where the villages under Hoshepu range suffered immense hardship during the war,” he said.

Parliamentary Secretary said that the Government was kind to give recognition to historical background and the heritage of Hoshepu by setting up Administrative HQ EAC Post and he further thanked the Government for completion of the office building. Pukhayi encouraged the public of Hoshepu range that various departments would gradually arrive in accompany of the EAC HQ. Therefore, he

requested the people to extend their fullest co-operation.

Highlighting more on development he said that construction of National Highway Niuland-Kontsuniu-Zunheboto via Aghunato-Shamator-Pangsha International Trade Centre is to be materialized soon whereas Treasury Office and Bank (SBI) is in the offing. Earlier, Parliamentary Secy. visited the home of oldest person of Khewoto & Khekiye Village as a token of respect.

ADC Aghunato Orenthang Ezung while delivering a short speech said that Parliamentary Secretary Pukhayi Sumi had planted a huge fruit bearing tree.

From now onwards, people of Hoshepu range would harvest various governmental fruits and he also requested the people to nurture the property well.

The programme was chaired by Berimong Chang EAC Aghunato who has also been given charge for Hoshepu EAC HQ.

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SAPO holds general body meeting kohIMa, noveMber 26 (Mexn): The Southern Angami Public Organization (SAPO) held its general body meeting on November 25 at SAPO Hall in Jakhama village.

A press release informed that the meeting approved SAPO’s Constitution and also inducted new Executive Council of SAPO for the tenure 2015-2018. In his maiden speech, the new SAPO President, Dr. Neiketou Kiso, retired director, Health & Family Welfare appealed to all frontal organizations, village councils and the general public of Southern Angami to unite and work for the welfare of the area. He also sought their support and cooperation in any endeavours of SAPO at all level and to maintain peace and harmony in the area. Earlier, the meeting was chaired by Zadeho Rika, President SAPO and invocation prayer said by Bise Sophie, Pastor, Jakha Town Baptist Church. The activities and achievement report of the SAPO from 2012-2015 was presented by Secretary Mhasekhol Tsukru and audit report by Micheal Neikha, Convenor, Audit Committee.

SVC protest against issue of Indigenous Certificate

Seyochung Village Council participates in the silent protest march against issue of Indigenous Certificate to non residents of the village.

kIPhIre, noveMber 26 (Mexn): The Seyochung Village Council (SVC) today held a silent protest march against issue of Indigenous Certificate to non residents of the village.

SVC members marched from traffic point to DC’s office carrying placards and submitted an ultimatum to the Chief Secretary GoN which was handed over to the Deputy Commissioner, Kiphire.

Seyochung Village Head GB Chothrise Sangtam and Chairman Yangthsamong Sangtam stated in a press release that the

democratic protest seated in front of the DC’s office will go on indefinitely till the demand is fulfilled by way of revoking the issue of indigenous inhabitation certificate to the non resident of the village.

The ultimatum mentioned that the recommendation submitted by the one man enquiry report is not acceptable to the Seyochung Village Council and hence appeal for a complete review. The Council also stated that it uphold the principles enshrined in the constitution of India Article 371 (A) the rights and privileges of Nagas custom-

ary practices and usages.

The council also mentioned that the issue of indigenous inhabitation certificate without duly verified and recommended by the village authority contravenes the Home department memorandum guidelines order No Home/SCTA-6/2006 dated Kohima the 21 march 2011.

Further, the SVC object to issue of indigenous inhabitation certificate to the Non resident of Seyochung village who left the village on their own are non tax payers of the village household tax to the government.

C M Y K

FridAY 27•11•2015

NORTH-EAST

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Oust Assam Governor within a month, demands Congress

India to supply B'desh with 100 MW electricity aGartala, November 26 (iaNS): In yet another sign of warming ties and growing cooperation, India will start supplying 100 MW of electricity to power-starved Bangladesh from December 16, the day observed as Vijay Diwas in both the countries. That was the day Bangladesh emerged as a sovereign nation after the surrender of 95,000 Pakistani troops at the end of the 1971 Liberation War in what was then East Pakistan.

"Arrangements are being readied to supply 100 MW of power to Bangladesh from December 16 to keep in mind the celebration of Vijay Diwas," Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limiited (TSECL) chairman Shyamal Roy told IANS.

Guwahati, November 26 (iaNS):"The Congress' Assam unit on Thursday served a onemonth ultimatum to the Centre to remove Governor P.B. Acharya over his comment "Hindustan is for Hindus", just days after a similar demand by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.

Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Anjan Dutta told reporters at the party headquarters here that they would protest outside Raj Bhavan every day if the central government

does not remove Acharya within the stipulated time.

"We are going to stage protests every day outside Raj Bhavan if the governor is not removed within a month. About 10,000 Congress workers will stage a protest in Guwahati on Friday against the divisive politics of Governor Acharya," Dutta said.

Nagaland Governor Acharya, who has also been holding additional charge of Assam since last year has, however, clarified that persecuted

Army mistakenly kills two in M'laya

ANSAM asks govt to ensure quality edu in hill districts

Guwahati, November 26 (iaNS):"In a case of mistaken identity, the army killed two civilians during a counter-insurgency operation in Meghalaya's East Garo Hills district, a defence spokesperson said on Thursday.

The incident occurred on Wednesday night in Kharkutta area "primarily due to non-adherence of existing security instructions by the concerned civilians", defence ministry spokesman Lt. Col. Suneet Newton said here. "The army had launched a counterinsurgency operation in the area. There was information that two cadres of the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) are moving in the area. "Following this, troops carried out an area domination patrol there. A mobile vehicle check post was also set up on the road between Kharkutta to Khilor," he said. "Two motorcycleborne youths came around 8.40 p.m. When signalled to stop, they accelerated their motorcycle and tried to escape. "Due to the huge back blast and flash which came out of the silencer and due to the prevailing pitch darkness, it seemed that the motorcyclists had opened fire. The troops fired in retaliation, hitting the youths killing them instantly," the spokesperson said.

A probe has been ordered by the army into the incident. The Garo Hills region is a hotbed of militancy.

According to official statistics, 87 people have been abducted by militants for ransom till October this year.

Indian Constitution is the best: Gogoi Guwahati, November 26 (Pti): Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said the Constitution of India is one of the best and the nation has the highest regard for Dr B R Ambedkar who played a major role in framing it.

"The Indian Constitution is the one of the best among the Committee of Nations, which provides civic, political and economic equality besides social justice, harmony and expression faith and belief," Gogoi said in a tribute to Ambedkar on the occasion of 'Constitution Day' today. Dr Ambedkar along with Dr Rajendra Prasad, Jawaharlal Nehru and others played a significant role in drafting the Constitution of India, the Chief Minister said in a statement.

Ambedkar was a great fighter who fought against exploitation, injustice and oppression, he said. "This was the day when the Constitution was adopted thereby laying the edifice of one and united India.

However, even today some divisive forces are at work, which are spreading their tentacles and creating an atmosphere of intolerance and hatred," Gogoi added.

SeNaPati, November 26 (mexN): The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) in an effort to ensure quality higher education in all the Hill Districts had an intensive discussion with the Principals of all the Government Colleges situated in all the Hill Districts. This is the second such initiative organized by ANSAM. The meeting mainly focuses on identifying shortages within the given provision and guidelines under higher education institutions in India and to authenticate ANSAM findings through direct interaction

Hindus across the world have a right to come to India and it was the duty of Indians to receive and welcome them.

Dutta, meanwhile, also slammed the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the centre and asked why it has failed to table a legislation for granting refugee status or citizenship to Hindu Bengalis staying in Assam.

"The BJP had claimed that it will grant citizenship/refugee status to Hindu Bengalis staying in Assam. However, no bill

with the head of the colleges from all the Hill Districts.

The Principals submitted a short description of the College profile and highlighted their difficulties due to shortages of basic provisions and entitlements in their respective colleges.

A press note from ANSAM said that the oldest College in Hill Districts, William Pettigrew College in Ukhrul which was established in the year 1965 has 13 departments but there are only 12 regular teaching faculty including the Principal and this is the only Government run college in the district. Tamen-

regarding this is slated to be introduced during the winter session of parliament which started today (Thursday). For granting citizenship, amendment has to be made in the Foreigners Act," he said.

The Assam government had moved the Centre to frame a policy for granting asylum to people who fled religious persecution and discrimination and had taken refuge in India during partition.

Gogoi had submitted a memorandum to then prime minister Manmo-

glong College has 16 teachers against 35 sanction posts, which means there is a shortage of 19 teaching staffs. United College, Chandel has 15 departments and there is a shortage of 40 teaching staffs.

Hill College, Tadubi has 6 Depts. And there is a shortage of 17 teachers. Churachandpur College which has 15 Depts. has a shortage of 21 teachers. Cases of acute shortages in all the basis educational infrastructures were noted from ANSAM findings as well as reports from the Principals.

However, over a period of time the State Govern-

han Singh in April 2012, pleading that Indian citizens who had to flee due to religious persecution should not be treated as foreigners on humanitarian grounds.

Dutta said the Hindu Bengalis -- who had moved towards the BJP earlier -- were now moving away after they realised that the BJP was just telling lies.

The state Congress president added that the party will put up candidates in all the 126 constituencies in next year's assembly polls.

ment has consistently invested in and developed Colleges based in the valley districts, the ANSAM said.

Of nearly 80 Colleges including private government aided colleges in the State, around 50 colleges are located in four Valley Districts which is less than the total geographical size of Phungyar Constituency in Ukhrul and Tamei constituency in Tamenglong. So it is not surprising to see Manipur as one of the top performing State in higher education enrolment with 33 % (for ST it is approx. 24 %).

The current enrolment at the national level is 18 %. This

Ex-insurgent arrested for selling arms to militant outfit ShilloNG, November 26 (iaNS): A former militant leader in Meghalaya has been arrested on charges of selling sophisticated arms and ammunition to another insurgent outfit in the state, police said on Thursday.

Jerome Cheran Momin, who was the self-styled military chief of the disbanded A'chik National Volunteer's Council (ANVC), was arrested on Wednesday night from West Garo Hills district headquarters Tura for selling weapons worth Rs.17 lakh to Sohan D. Shi-

ra, the 'military wing chief' of the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA).

The GNLA, which is active in the five districts of the Garo Hills, has been abducting government officials and businessmen for ransom.

"Jerome was under police scanner for months for selling sophisticated arms, ammunition besides other military logistics items to the GNLA," East Garo Hills district police chief Davies Marak told IANS. He said the weapons sold to the militant outfit

IMMANUEL COLLEGE Lengrijan ; Dimapur

ment, Jerome hid many illegal weapons at undisclosed places to make money," the police official said.

In December 2014, police registered a case against Jerome, based on confessions of three arrested people.

VACANCY 1. History Teacher 2. Sociology Teacher 3. English Teacher 4. Social Sciences Teacher 5. Scripture Teacher 6. Boys Warden

–M.A(History) –M.A (Sociology) –M.A/B.A (English) –B.A –B.D/M.Th –B.Th/B.A (CommittedChristian)

ExpERIENCED HANDS pREFERRED Interview: 1. Written 2. Demonstration 3. Viva

EXAM NOTICE 1st, 2nd & 3rd Yr. B.A. & B.Sc. (Old Course) Repeaters are directed to fill-up the application form for N.U. Examination on or before 8th Dec. 2015.

The said exam will commence from 2nd Feb. 2016.

No forms shall be accepted after the last date.

Documents to be enclosed Original & xeroxed admit cards & mark-sheets of the previous exams failed. HSLC xeroxed admit card.

(Principal) #03862-248275(office)

Handwritten application along with xerox copies of the supporting documents should reach the undersigned on or before 5th Dec.2015.

Director Lima Aier Hr. Sec. School, Lingrijan, Dimapur Contact No: 9436609726/9402830655/9774609645

Government of Nagaland Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Nagaland: Kohima

AFFIDAVIT Regd. No: 656/15

were meant to be deposited to the Meghalaya government during a surrender ceremony held in December 2014 after the ANVC signed a memorandum of settlement with the central and state governments.

"Instead of depositing the arms with the govern-

Dated Kohima: 26th Nov’ 2015 Date: 9/10/15

I, Shri. Banty Kumar Vaid Balmiki, S/o. Shri. Mahabir Singh Vaid, R/o.

J.V.P. 3rd Mile, P.O. Dimapur, P.S. Diphupar, Teh- Dimapur Nearest Railways Station Dimapur, Distt. Dimapur, State Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm and declare an oath as follows:1. That, I have shifted my residential along with my family to village & P.O.Urlana Kalan, P.S Madlauda Teh- Madlauda, Near Railway station Panipat, Distt. Panipat State-Haryana, PIN- 132103.

2. That, I sworn this affidavit to declare my permanent residential address and correspondence address in future for all my and family purpose.

Deponent Sworn before me by the deponent on 9th of Oct 2015 at Dimapur.

Magistrate, Dimapur: Nagaland

NO.DHFW-5/PG/2005-06/9467: Applications are invited for 1(one) PG seat from Medical Graduates for admission to the 2(two) year Master of Public Health (Epidemiology and Health Systems) course conducted

by ICMR, School of Public Health at National Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai. The last date for receipt of application to the Institute is 31st Dec' 2015. For detailed information, login to the website www.nhmnagaland.in Sd/- (DR. NANDIRA CHANGKIJA) Principal Director H&FW

3

excellent performance cannot happen without Government Colleges in the State, it stated. However, ANSAM said that the achievement is limited only in the four valley districts. If the State gives equal important in the hill based colleges by at least fulfilling basic provisions entitle to higher education as per UGC guidelines the story would have very different today in the Hill Districts as well, it added.

As such, ANSAM urged upon the Government to look into the prevailing situation and problems in order to ensure its objective to provide quality higher education.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, HAIKEYA (OLD NAME) SHOULD BE KNOWN AS HAIKEYA KATH (NEW NAME) BY AFFIDAVIT NO 2617/2015, DATED 21/11/2015.

"The power ministry has called a meeting in New Delhi on Thursday to finalise the tariff," he added.

TSECL Deputy General Managar Mahananda Debbarma, who along with Tripura's Principal Secretary (Power) S.K.Rakesh and other senior officials would attend the New Delhi meeting, said this would be the second on the issue.

"The first three-day (October 26-28) meet was held in New Delhi where Indian and Bangladesh officials finalised all other nitty-gritties except the tariff," Debbarma told IANS. "The power ministry's director (Transmission), Ghanshyam Prasad, would preside over the meeting, which would also be attended by senior officials of the external affairs min-

istry, the Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) and the Bangladesh government," he added.

Indian and Bangladeshi officials conducted a joint inspection last week and earlier in the month to verify the progress of the 47-km power transmission line from western Tripura to southern Comilla in eastern Bangladesh.

Engineers of the Indian government-owned PGCIL are working round-theclock to complete the line before December 16.

"The PGCIL would initially invest Rs.250 crore ($37 million) to set up the 400 kv double circuit line and the Bangladesh government would subsequently reimburse the expenditure," Debbarma added.

IN MEMORIAL OF Lt. MEYILEMBA JAMIR Mopungchuket (Born-25/04/1935 – Died-27/11/2014)

Dear Oba, We remember the gentle way you had departed for our fragile arms in the evening of this day a year ago. We truly believe that the strong arms of our Maker lifted you to the abode of eternal peace where all of mankind are pre-destined to stand before Him, eventually.

The legacy you left being of your gentleness, simple living, empathy, love, prayer, hope, humbleness, patience and quite struggle will forever be inspired and cherished.

“Praise the Lord” Wife, Daughter, Sons, Grand children & relatives

BORDER ROADS ORGANISATION NOTICE INVITING TENDER (NATIONAL COMpETITIVE BIDDING) 1. The Commander 15 BRTF, PIN-930 015, C/O 99 APO on behalf of President of India invites tender(s) from the eligible contractors for the following work(s) :Particular of work Cost &Time of work Details of tender documents Tender No.CDR 15TF/07 of 2015-16 (Re-Tender) (a) Cost: ` 2.04 lakh (a) Cost of tender ` 500/Supply and stacking of Sand between Km 53.500 (b) Period of completion : (b) Availability :On or after to KM 88.000 on Zunheboto-Aghunato-Kiphire 26 Nov 2015 03 Months Road for Execution of SRMD works under 100 (c) Earnest money: (c) Submission : Up to 1200 hrs RCC/15 BRTF/ Project Sewak in Nagaland State. ` 4,080/on 21 Dec 2015 Tender No.CDR 15TF/08 of 2015-16 (Re-Tender) (a) Cost: ` 1.98 lakh (a) Cost of tender ` 500/Supply and stacking of Sand between Km 151.750 (b) Period of completion : (b) Availability :On or after to KM 155.200 on Zunheboto-Mokokchung Road 03 Months 26 Nov 2015 for Execution of SRMD works under 100 RCC/15 (c) Earnest money: `3,960/- (c) Submission : Up to 1200 hrs BRTF/ Project Sewak in Nagaland State. on 22 Dec 2015 Tender No.CDR 15TF/09 of 2015-16 (Re-Tender) (a) Cost: ` 1.18 lakh (a) Cost of tender ` 500/Supply and stacking of Sand between Km 24.400 (b) Period of completion : (b) Availability :On or after to KM 82.500 on Mariani-Mokokchung Road for 03 Months 26 Nov 2015 Execution of SRMD works under 100 RCC/15 (c) Earnest money: ` 3,000/- (c) Submission : Up to 1200 hrs BRTF/ Project Sewak in Nagaland State. on 23 Dec 2015 Note: Full notice of tender, any change in above details, tender document (including eligibility criteria) and other details may be obtained from BRO Website www.bro.nic.in (link: Tender) or Central public procurement portal www.eprocure.gov.in for any queries, please contract on telephone 0370-2260542.

Davp 37102/11/0430/1516

GOVERNOR’ S SECRETARIAT NAGALAND: KOHIMA

No. G-06/4/A-II/04

Dated Kohima, the 21st November, 2015.

ADVERTISEMENT Applications are invited in a plain paper giving full curriculum Vitae from the serving candidates belonging to Chang, Khiamnuingan, Konyak, Phom, Sangtam and Yimchunger Tribes of State of Nagaland to fill up a post of Secretariat Assistant in the scale of Pay of Rs. 9300-34800, Grade Pay 4200/ pm (PB-2) under the establishment of Governor's Secretariat, Nagaland, Kohima.

The application should be addressed to the Commissioner & Secretary to Governor of Nagaland, Governor's Secretariat, Nagaland, Kohima.

Terms: • Minimum Qualification: Graduate in any discipline from any recognized University.

• Candidate should have good working knowledge in computers.

• Age: Not less than 21 years as on 31st October, 2015 and not more than 30 years as on 31st October, 2015. Age relaxation of upper limit as per existing policy of the State Government, including those serving in the State Government.

• No objection Certificate duly signed by the Head of the Department with name and Official seal indicating the date of initial appointment of the candidate is required from applicants already serving in the State Government.

• Candidates who are already in service in the identical Pay Band (PB-2930034800, Grade Pay 4200/pm) will be given preference.

• Candidates working on fixed pay are not eligible to apply.

• The date and venue of the written test will be intimated to the shortlisted candidates.

• The applicants are requested to deafly indicate their contact details such as email id, Phone number and proper postal address in their applications. Copies of the relevant documents along with recent passport size photograph to be attached with application.

• Appointment will be on probation for a period of one year.

• The undersigned has reserves the right to accept or reject any application without assigning any reason(s) whatsoever.

Examination: • Written Exam: MCQ of total 100 marks (50 marks written and 30 marks oral & 20 for working experience).

Subject: General Knowledge, Test of Reasoning, Simple Arithmetic and General English.

Last date of Submission: 15th December, 2015.

(Sanjay Kumar), IAS Commissioner & Secretary to Governor

4

FriDAY 27 •11•2015

Business

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Dimapur get Vodafone’s Super 3 G services Dimapur, November 26 (ageNcies): Vodafone India, one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, has announced the launch ofSuperfast 3G services on its own network in Dimapur, Nagaland.

With this move, over 1.2 lakh citizens of the city (as per Census 2011 data) will be able to experience Vodafone 3G services, now even faster, smarter and better than the existing 3G experience. To provide high speed mobile internet services to the customers in Dimapur, Vodafone has deployed 70 new 3G towers and continues to add more sites.

The new Superfast Vodafone 3G will enhance the service experience such as multimedia, high speed mobile broadband, internet access with the ability to view video footage on one’s mobile hand-

set. Also, with a 3G phone and access to the Superfast Vodafone 3G network, one can make video calls, watch live TV, access the high speed internet, download large email attachments faster and download music tracks, as well as the usual voice call and messaging services found in a mobile phone.

Commenting on the launch of own 3G network in Dimapur, Alok Verma, Business Head- Assam & North East, Vodafone India said,“With this launch our valued customers across Dimapur will now avail of faster, smarter, better speeds and superior data browsing experience at the existing 3G tariffs. Our aim is to accelerate mobile internet adoption through penetration, consumption and value addition, and we are confident that this move will facilitate in quicker adoption, better usage and

a superfast internet experience on the go.”

Vodafone, so far, has been offering 3G services in Assam & North East circle via bilateral roaming agreements (ICR) with other operators. In March 2015 auctions, Vodafone India acquired 2100 Mhz (3G) spectrum for Assam & North East circle and has made significant investments to modernise its network to offer faster, smarter and better 3G services to its customers on its own network. Vodafone India has more than4.7 million customers in Assam & North East Circle with 40% being data users.

Vodafone has been rolling out its own 3G network in a phased manner across Assam & North East Circle. Recently, it has announced the launch of its own 3G services in Jorhat and Guwahati in Assam, Itanagar, Bomdila, Tawa-

ng, Along, Basar, Bhalukpong, Dirang, Changlang in Arunachal Pradesh and Kohima in Nagaland.

As part of its strategy to democratize data, Vodafone India has been focusing on closer engagement with customers to use mobile internet, and educating current and potential users about how internet can add significant value to them.

It has also launched ‘3G Experience Card’ free of cost for customers to experience faster, smarter and better speeds and superior connectivity of Vodafone 3G services. This is a onetime experience card which offers free 30 MB 3G data.

3G Experience Card comes with validity of one day, and is available at Vodafone Mini stores and multi retail outlets across Dimapur City.

Vodafone has invested more than Rs 500 crores to modernize and upgrade

existing voice and data network in Assam & North East circle. During the period of April-October 2015, Vodafone has put up over 115 numbers of 2G sites & 248 numbers of 3G sites in Assam & North East, while the capacity of more than 150 existing sites has been augmented.

Vodafone India as the country’s leading telecom service provider is committed to support the Government and play an anchor role in establishing a world class mobile network for its customers.

Vodafone India, in addition to Rs 111,000 crores already invested in the country since entry in 2007, has recently announced an additional investment of Rs 13,000 crores for capacity augmentation and new business initiatives, reiterating its commitment to Digital India and Make in India.

Financial Literacy Camp held at Chungtiayimsen village mokokchuNg, November 26 (mexN): To promote the cause of literacy, a one day Financial Literacy Camp (FLC) supported under FIF managed by NABARD was conducted at Chungtiayimsen village on November 25 organized by Central Bank of India, Mokokchung in

collaboration with Care & Support Society with NABARD District Office, Mokokchung. Programme was chaired by Imchawati Kichu, Managing Director, Care and Support Society, welcome address was addressed by Saku Village Council Member.

Dur ing the programme, Rokorheno

Chasie, Branch Manager, Central Bank of India, Mokokchung highlighted the objectives of the programme and discussed on importance of banking, savings, financial planning, also benefits under, APY, PMSBY, PMJJBY and Credit Facilities. Altogether 53 participants attended the programme.

‘Govt to hike minimum ‘India among worst in corporate fraud’ One reason India’s numbers appear November 26 wages to boost economy’ washiNgToN, (iaNs): India has one of the highest per- higher than some of its emerging market

ATMA Wakching block have conducted demonstration and training programme at Tanhai Village and Wakching Village on25th Nov 2015 on the following topics - Demonstration New Delhi, November 26 (pTi): The govern- centages of companies where fraud, in peers might be because more and more on pea cultivation, nursery bed management of large cardamom, Cabbage cultivation ment will enhance minimum wages and make it man- particular corruption and bribery, was Indian companies have in recent years and training on IPM. The resource person was Mhonchumo Khuvung ATM and the datory across the country to boost demand of goods detected, according to a new survey of started reporting and confronting corrupt programme was chaired by Roseline Pusa, BTM. Altogether 55 farmers attended the programme and the treated seeds of pea was distributed to the participating farmers. large local and multinational companies practices, the Wall Street Journal said.

and services for pushing economic growth and creating jobs, Labour Secretary Shankar Aggarwal today said.

“We will create a law to give certain minimum wages across the country in all trades and not only in scheduled employments (as per existing law),” Aggarwal said while addressing at a conference organised by CII here.

He further said, “We will increase the wages under Minimum Wage Act so that workers have decent wages aligned with inflation and have some money to buy goods and services.” Aggarwal is of the view that the economic growth can be boosted by creating jobs and for that there is need of creating demand of goods and services for increasing manufacturing and other economic activities.

“For creating jobs, we need to create demand for goods and services. But it would happen only when there is money in the pocket of buyers,” he said. In the present scenario, labour is under the concurrent list of the constitution. The centre as well as the states fix minimum wages for skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers in their jurisdiction.

Trade unions have been demanding for a minimum wage of Rs 15,000 per month across the board which should be applicable in the entire country. Labour Ministry is now mulling an amendment to Minimum Wage Act to fix a mandatory minimum level of wages applicable across the country for all categories of workers, which will be aligned with inflation and sufficiency to create demand for goods and services.

Aggarwal also said that the government will very soon cover all workers under various social security schemes.

Speaking at the same event, International Labour Organisation Director (India) Panudda Boonpala said labour law reforms is a huge and complex task. She added, dialogue as well as collective bargaining is the way out for going ahead with massive labour law reforms

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LEISURE SUDOKU

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

Game Number # 3417

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ATMA Mon, Chen block conducted training cum demonstration on management practices and nursery bed preparation of large cardamom, cultivation practices of cabbage and pea was given by Asang Ozukum BTM at Aboi and Ngangching Village on November 23. Mhachamo ATM of Chen block also spoke on the importance of large Cardamom and management practices, Pea seeds were also distributed to the farmers. Altogether 62 farmers were benefitted.

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 3429

Answer Number # 3416

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A T I N O G F S S A N T A E W

Even so, fraud in India remains a growing problem, both for Indian companies and investors, the Journal said, citing Reshmi Khurana, head of South Asia for Kroll. Part of the problem is that accounting standards and financial regulations are not strictly implemented.

Auditing of firm balance sheets, for instance, is supposed to be independent but is sometimes carried out by auditors who are too close to the company’s management. In addition, the standards for corporate governance within Indian companies are broadly low, according to Khurana as cited by the Journal.

Besides bribery to government officials, one key issue for companies in India is executives taking bribes to give a big order to a vendor, or to hire someone, Khurana was quoted as saying.

According to the fraud report, India’s record on lack of compliance with regulations is also the worst among the countries surveyed. A fifth of respondents from India said they had found instances of regulatory or compliance breach, compared to a global average of 12%. India, though, appears slightly better compared to the global average on a handful of matrices, including the theft of physical assets.

While 22% of respondents globally reported such theft, only 17.5%t of respondents from India said they had come across it.

across industries worldwide.

Conducted by the Economist Intelligence Unit and commissioned by New York-based risk consultancy firm Kroll Inc., the survey asked around 770 senior executives if they had discovered any fraud in their companies in 2014.

Around three-quarters of the executives surveyed said they encountered fraud, including corruption, bribery and stealing of proprietary information among other things, according to the Wall Street Journal. The problem is even worse in emerging countries like India, where 80 percent of the respondents said they’d come across fraud in their firm.

India was more prone to some types of fraud than any other country. For instance, the survey found that Indian respondents were most likely to report encountering corruption and bribery, regulatory breaches, money laundering and theft of intellectual property.

Globally, 11 percent of all executives surveyed said they discovered cases of in-house corruption and bribery, while 25 percent of respondents from India said they came across such types of fraud in the past year, according to the report.

In comparison, only around 18 percent of Chinese executives and 20 percent of Russians said they encountered corruption and bribery.

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229366

1. Recurring theme 6. Banner 10. Hindu princess 14. Muse of love poetry 15. Magma 16. Quaint outburst 17. Become narrower 18. Ends a prayer 19. Relocate 20. Primary 22. Mining finds 23. Female sib 24. Wall painting 26. Summit 30. Swerves 32. Habituate 33. Wholesalers 37. Cocoyam 38. Small boat 39. Half of ten 40. A fictitious name 42. Whines 43. Aquamarine 44. Yield 45. Dishes of shredded cabbage 47. 2,000 pounds 48. Potato 49. Communicative 56. Meal in a shell

57. Not false 58. Large Asian country 59. Beige 60. Acquire deservedly 61. Valleys 62. Equal 63. Not the original color 64. Excrete

DOWN

1. Distribute 2. By mouth 3. Adhesive strip 4. Bit of gossip 5. Anticipate 6. Apartments (British) 7. Tibetan monk 8. Affirm 9. A moon of Jupiter 10. Repentant 11. Ancient Greek marketplace 12. Belly button 13. Midmonth date 21. Veto 25. Website address 26. Vice President 27. Terminates 28. Boorish 29. Minstrel 30. A type of plastic 31. Anagram of “Dome”

33. Numerous 34. 5280 feet 35. Not odd 36. Where a bird lives 38. Anagram of “Escorted” 41. Morning moisture 42. Contemplative 44. Caviar 45. “The Final Frontier” 46. Ill-gotten gains 47. Inclination 48. Stair 50. Roentgen ray 51. Unadulterated 52. Catch 53. Doing nothing 54. Contends 55. Where the sun rises Ans to CrossWord 3428

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KOHIMA

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

H

W N C O A C H A P C Z K L R L

DIMAPUR Civil Hospital:

Toll free No. 1098 childline

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WE4WOMEN HELPLINE 08822911011

MOKOKCHUNG: Police Station 1:

STD CODE: 0369

2226241

Police Station 2 :

2226214

Civil Hospital: Woodland Nursing Home:

2226216 2226263

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2226373/2229343

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FridAY 27•11•2015

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

nagaland to observe World disability day Morung Express News Mokokchung | November 26

Nagaland along with rest of the country will be observing the World Disability Day 2015 on December 3 at Town Hall, Mokokchung with Dr.Atha Vizol, State Disability Commissioner as the chief guest and T.Merangtsungba Aier, Director of department of Social Welfare, government of Nagaland as guest of honour. The state level function is jointly organized by the Care & Support Society, Mokokchung and Department of Social Welfare, government of Nagaland in collaboration with District Election Office, Mokokchung, Mokokchung District Blind Association, Mokokchung District Parents Association for People with Disabilities and DMA (SSA) under the theme ‘Inclusion matters: access and empowerment for people of all abilities.’

This was informed by the Managing Director of Care & Support Society, Imchawati Kichu during a press conference at his office chambers, Mokokchung. It was also further informed that there will be a games and sports meet for people and children with disabilities on the same day after the formal function.

The Managing Director of Care & Support Society Dr Imchawati Kichu (2nd from left) along with others during the press conference on World Disability Day. (Morung Photo)

He also invited all interested people to attend the function which will begin at 10:00 am.

Katibenla selected for National Award The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of India will be conferring the National Award for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities 2015 on the occasion of the World Disability Day at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, December 3.

Katibenla of Khensa Village, Mokokchung has been selected for the Best Creative Child with Disabilities category of the national awards. The National

Award for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities 2015 is being conferred under 14 categories and 27 sub-categories.

“State must act on Policy for Persons with Disability” The state’s responsibility towards persons with disability (PWD) presently appears to be minimal and the government appears to thrust that responsibility on caregiver NGOs only. According to Care and Support Society (C&SS) Mokokchung, the state government is not known to have acted on the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995, the National Policy for Persons with Disability announced in February 2006 and the Right of Persons with Dis-

abilities Bill 2014 neither has the state drafted its own policies for PWDs. Imchawati Kichu, MD of C&SS Mokokchung while interacting with media persons here today held that Nagaland state must adopt a “policy for PWDs” without which anything done for the welfare of the PWDs amounts to “nothing.” Saying that “Disability Pension” is the only welfare scheme aimed at PWDs in Nagaland, he opined that much remains to be done. Citing that there are no ramps for PWDs in the marketplace or even in the churches, he observed that there is “no disabled friendly environment” in Nagaland. Saying that much sensitization

and awareness campaigns are needed, he reiterated that at the least a “state level policy for PWDs should be passed in the floor of the state assembly.” He also opined that the State Disability Commissioner must be “empowered” to function more effectively.

He was also of the opinion that the presently practiced process of issuing Disability Certificates to PWDs needed a review. The Medical Board of IMDH is the sole issuing authority of the all-important certificate for PWDs in Mokokchung, which Imchawati says must be made more “disabled friendly” specially keeping in mind the welfare of PWDs from far flung areas. The certificate is issued only after physically verifying the PWDs but in most cases, the PWDs are unable to “physically present themselves” at IMDH. “Unless someone sponsors them or initiates to bring them to be physically verified, it is very difficult. It will be good if the Board entertain recommendations from PHCs,” he suggested.

Imkong, a Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) worker with C&SS Mokokchung also expressed dismay that there is no “transparency in the utilisation

of funds meant for PWDs” and added that it hurts him that there is no reservation in jobs for PWDs. Imkong is a locomotor himself and CBR in-charge of three villages in Mokokchung.

Mary Changkilari, president of the Mokokchung District Parents Association for People with Disability encouraged parents of children with disability to come forward and join the association.

C&SS Mokokchung currently runs their CBR project covering seven villages of Ongpangkong Range of Mokokchung district. In the seven villages alone, there are 197 PWDs of all ages. It is claimed that there are more PWDs in these villages but some PWDs declined to register themselves fearing stigmatization, according to C&SS workers.

The Care & Support Society Mokokchung was established in the year 2001 “for a social cause with special focus on disability.” Under its initiative, the Forum for Special People was formed in the year 2011 and the Mokokchung District Parents Association for People with Disability was formed in the year 2012. Mokokchung District Blind Association was also formed in the same year.

5

Guv, CM extend Ngada greetings KoHima, November 26 (mexN): The Governor of Nagaland PB Acharya and the Chief Minister, TR Zeliang has extended their warm greetings to the Rengma community as they celebrate their premier festival Ngada.

In his message, Acharya conveyed his warm greetings to the Rengma brothers & sisters on the joyous occasion of Ngada Festival. He further appealed to all to forgive and forget all the past differences, hatred, enmity and let the spirit of peace, harmony and prosperity bestow upon the Rengma Community in particular and Naga Society in general.

Zeliang, in his message, hoped that the festival will renew the feeling of togetherness and fulfil the hopes and inspirations of all the people.

NSCN (IM) Tatar Hoho’s winter session Dimapur, November 26 (mexN): The Speaker of the Tatar Hoho has summoned its 2015 winter session on December 4, 10AM onwards at the Council Headquarters, Hebron. This in pursuance of the Yaruiwo’s consent Vide No. 02-30-15/YO, dated November 23, a press communiqué from Secretary, Tatar Hoho D Joy Rudolph informed. In this connection, it requested all Steering Committee Members, Council of Kilonsers, Tatars, Head of Departments, Army Authorities (Brigades/Unit Commanders), NSWON Executive Members and CAOs/EOs to kindly attend the Winter Session positively. “Be a part of important decision making as we enter another crucial stage in the making of Naga Nation,” it added. It further said that all government and private agenda may be submitted on or before November 30 to the Secretary, Tatar Hoho office adding no agenda shall be accepted after the due date.

Tourism dept press meet rescheduled KoHima, November 26 (Dipr): The press conference to be addressed by the Parliamentary, Tourism, C.Apok Jamir on November 27 at 1:00 PM at the Directorate of Tourism has been re-scheduled to 3:00 PM due to the funeral service of late Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha and former Minister for Industries, Nagaland, Khekiho Zhimomi. Inconvenience caused is deeply regretted.

CondolenCe messages Condolences pours in for Lt Sentichuba Ao governor, Cm lead others in paying tribute to departed mP KoHima, November 26 (mexN): Several organizations and individuals from all walks of life have expressed shock over the sudden demise of former Minister S Sentichuba Ao, at Dimapur on November 25 and offered their heartfelt condolences.

SPEAKER NLA: The Speaker Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Chotisuh Sazo expressed his deep condolence at the demise S Sentichuba Ao “I heard the extremely sad news about the untimely demise of S Sentichuba Ao, former Member and Minister, Nagaland legislative assembly” the speaker stated in a message.

Besides serving several organisations in various capacities, including President Mongsenyimti Students’ Union; General Secretary and President Langpangkong Students’ Union (1961, 1964-65 respectively) and President, Ao Students’ Conference, Late Ao was first elected as a member of Nagaland Legislative Assembly from Angetyongpang Assembly Constituency on erstwhile United Front of Nagaland in 1969, the speaker added.

Lt. Sentichuba was reelected on form the same constituency in 1974, 1977, 1982; 1993, 1998; and 2008, he informed adding the former minister had thorough knowledge of parliamentary practice and procedures which was indeed a boon for the NLA and his death the state has lost a veteran leader in general and for the Tribe in particular.

“In this hour of gloom and grief I on behalf of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and on my own behalf convey our heartfelt condolences. May his Soul Rest in Peace,” the speaker conveyed.

Home Minister: The Home minister of Nagaland, Y Patton has conveyed his deep shock to learn the demise of former Nagaland Minister S Sentichuba Ao. In his death, Nagas have lost a great leader and the void created by his death will be difficult to fill, Patton stated in his condolence message.

“I and my wife convey heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family members of Lt. Sentichuba and also pray to Almighty Lord to grant solace to the family members at this hour of grief”, it added.

Nuklutoshi: Minister for National Highways, Mechanical Engineering and Elections, Nuklutoshi expressed shock at the sudden demise of former Minister S Sentichuba Ao. In a condolence message today, Nuklutoshi said the former minister was a successful politician and lifetime works will be treasures for the future generations and will be a source of inspiration to the Nagas in general. The Minister said in his death, the Naga people have lost a visionary Naga leader and the void created by his death will be difficult to fill.

Nuklutoshi also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and also prayed to Almighty Lord to grant them strength at this hour of grief,

while also praying to Almighty Lord Dimapur, November 26 to grant peace to the departed soul. (mexN) : Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya and Chief Minister TR ZeBJP Nagaland: The State Presi- liang today led others paying rich condent Dr M Chuba Ao, on behalf of dolences to Khekiho Zhimomi, the the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) present Member of Parliament (Rajya Nagaland, has conveyed its deep Sabha) from Nagaland, who died brief sorrow and shock at the passing illness at New Delhi on November 26. away of Sentichuba, a former MinIn his message, P.B. Acharya exister and an influential leader. pressed his deepness sadness to learn “We mourn with the bereaved about the sudden demise of late Zhimofamily at this juncture of the dark- mi and conveyed his heartfelt sympathy est hour and pray that the Almighty to the members of the bereaved family God may heal the torn heart of the and prays to Almighty God to grant them family members and give them strength to bear the irreparable loss. grace to pass through this difficult The Chief Minister of Nagaland, time, the party stated in a press T.R. Zeliang also offered his heartfelt note issued by its general secretary condolence at the late Zhimomi. “It is & spokesman, K. James Vizo. with a very heavy heart that I should be writing a condolence message for NPCC: The Nagaland Pradesh one of the most colourful and popular Congress Committee, Kohima has politicians of the State” Zeliang noted also conveyed its heartfelt condo- in his message. lence to the bereaved families of Home Minister Y Patton: The untimely demise late S Sentichuba Ao. With his demise, the people of Home minister of Nagaland, Y Patton the State has lost a great personality has conveyed his deep shock to learn and created a vacuum in the soci- the sudden demise sitting of Rajya Shaety, the NPCC maintained in press ba MP from Nagaland Khekiho Zhicondolence issued by its General momi. In his death, the Naga people have lost a visionary Naga leader and Secretary (Admn), Yona Konyak.

“With great sorrow we shared the void created by his death will be the grief and pain with bereaved difficult to fill, Patton said in his mesfamily at this moment of irrepara- sage. “I joined by my wife convey our ble lost,” it added further wishing an heartfelt condolences to wife, sons and eternal peace to the departed soul. daughters of Lt. Zhimomi and pray to Almighty Lord to grant them strength PPC & PSC: The Phom Peo- at this hour of grief” he added. ples’ Council (PPC) and the Phom Jacob Zhimomi: The ParliamenStudents’ Conference (PSC) have also expressed deep sorrow over tary Secretary for Irrigation and Flood the demise of Late Sentichuba Control, Jacob Zhimomi has expressed Ao. The PPC president, H. Leisha his shock on the sudden and untimely Phom and PSC president D. Hon- demise of Khekiho Zhimomi. In his gkam Ngonyen in a condolence condolence message, Jacob described message described Lt. Sentichuba Lt. Zhimomi as an upright and dedias renowned and dynamic Naga cated leader of Naga people who firmly leader who had served tirelessly stood for regional political party in the for the welfare of the people and his state that uphold the right and identity of Naga people. Jacob conveyed his deeds shall always be cherished.

The two organisations further deepest condolence to the members of expressed its deep condolences to bereaved family members and prayed the bereaved family members and for eternal solace of the departed leader. prayed for the departed soul to rest NPCC: The Nagaland Pradesh in eternal peace.

Congress Committee, Kohima has also K V Pusa: The Former President conveyed its heartfelt condolence to the bereaved families of untimely deNagaland Pradesh Congress Commise late Khekiho Zhimomi. With his mittee (NPCC) & Member AICC, K demise, the people of the State has V Pusa has conveyed his deep sad- lost a great personality and has creatness over untimely demise of Sen- ed a vacuum in the society, the NPCC tichuba Ao, a former Minister. With maintained in press condolence issued his sudden demise we have lost a by its General Secretary (Admn), Yona sincere and upright person, Pusa Konyak. “With great sorrow we shared said in a message offering his fam- the grief and pain with bereaved family heartfelt condolences to the be- ily at this moment of irreparable lost,” it reaved family and prayer of eternal added further wishing an eternal peace peace to the departed soul. to the departed soul.

LEDF: The members of the Lotha Ex. Parliamentarians’ Forum (LEPF) expressed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of late Sentichuba Ao. Expressing its deep pain, the forum in a press condolence issued by its chairman, Er. W. Kithan and secretary, Dr. Chumben Murry said an inconsolable grief and vacuum is deeply felt by his sudden demises and the members of the Forum pray that all the bereaved family members find solace and strength in God to bear the loss and grief.

“May the soul of the departed find eternal rest and peace by the side of almighty God in heaven,” it added.

Naga Hoho: The Naga Hoho has shared its profound grief overr the sudden demise of Lt. Khekiho Zhimomi.

“Late Zhimomi was a true politician and an active Naga leader who has contributed immensely to the building of Naga society, which would be always acknowledged and cherished” the Hoho stated in press note issued by its general secretary, Mutsikhoyo Yhobu adding, “Nagas have lost a a true political leader.” It further offered its prayers of solace to his bereaved family members conveyed an eternal rest to the departed soul.

ENPO: The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) has deeply

Peoples’ Front (NPF) Minority Wing (Central) President Bishnu Bhattacharjee has expressed its shock learn sudden demise Khekiho Zhimomi. Lt. Zhimomi was eminent political and Social Worker and popular amongst all community for his service for the people of Nagaland, the party said in a press note issued by its working president, Mahendra Thousen adding that, his absence will be felt dearly by all.” It further conveyed its heartfelt condoPPC & PSC: The Phom Peoples’ lence to the bereaved family members Council (PPC) and the Phom Stu- and prayed departed soul. dents’ Conference (PSC) have conNagaland Bhojpuri Samaj: The Nadole the untimely demise of Khekeho Zhimomi. The PPC president, H. Lei- galand Bhojpuri Samaj has expressed its sha Phom and PSC president D. Hon- profoundest grief and heartfelt sorrow gkam Ngonyen in a condolence mes- at the sad demise of late Khekiho Zhisage acknowledged Lt. Zhimomi as a momi. Describing Lt.Zhimomi as a stalbrave heart and a straight forward per- wart of state politics, the NBS in a press son who was a great Naga leader. His note issued by its president, RC Gupta, death has caused great vacuum for the conveyed its sincerest condolences and Nagas, the press note added, further prayers of peace to the departed soul. extending their deep condolences to “May God grant his near and dear ones the bereaved family and prayer for the the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” it added. departed soul to rest in peace. mourned the sudden demise of Khekeho Zhimomi. The ENPO in a condolence message issued by its president, Khoiwang Konyak and general secretary Manlang Phom said, the Nagas have lost a politician and statesman in his demise but his legacy shall always remain. The ENPO also shared its deepest condolences with the bereaved family members, and pray for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

UNC: The United Naga Council (UNC) has expressed its shock and grief at the sudden demise of Khekiho Zhimomi. Terming Lt. Zhimomi was one of the remarkable Naga leaders instrumental in materializing the Indo-Naga political solution to its logical conclusion including signing of ‘frame-work agreement’ on August 3, the UNC in a press note from its president, Gaidon Kamei maintained that Naga people have lost one of its valuable political leader in his sudden demise. The council also shared the grief and sorrow of the bereaved family members and prayed the eternal peace of the departed soul.

BJP Nagaland: The State President Dr M Chuba Ao, on behalf of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Nagaland, has conveyed its deep sorrow and shock at the passing away of late Khekiho Zhimomi. “We mourn with the bereaved family at this juncture of the darkest hour and pray that the Almighty God may heal the torn heart of the family members and give them grace to pass through this difficult time, the party stated in a press note issued by its general secretary & spokesman, K. James Vizo. In a separate message, BJP National Secretary I/C of Nagaland and National Minority I/C Farooq Khan stated that “Nagaland State has lost a tall regional leader who has served the State and the Nation in various capacities.” While expressing his heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family, he prayed pray that the departed soul rest in peace.

NFF Nagaland: The Naga People’s Front, Central Hq. Kohima Nagaland has expressed its shocked and pained to learn about the sudden demise of veteran Naga regionalist and NPF stalwart, H. Khekiho Zhimomi. “The President, Dr Shürhozelie Liezetsu and all ranks & files of NPF Central Hqs. join Mrs. Khekiho, their children and the bereaved family members at this grievous moment and convey our heartfelt condolences and pray that God almighty grant them strength and solace” the NPF stated in a press note issued through its press bureau. “May the departed soul rest in eternal peace.”

NPF Minority Wing: The Naga

Tovihoto Ayemi: The member of legislative assembly of Nagaland Tovihoto Ayemi has also expressed its deep shocked over the untimely demise, Khekiho Zhimomi. “In his untimely demise, the Naga people have lost a giant political figure whose contributions to the progress and development of the state would remain in the minds of the people for a long time,”Ayemi added in his message. He further offered his prayers of comfort and strength bereaved family and relatives to overcome their irreparable loss and wished an eternal peace to the departed soul.

K Azo Nienu: The 19th A/C Phek MLA, Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu conveyed his condolence to the wife and children of Rajya Sabha MP, late Khekiho Zhimomi. Terming Lt. Zhimomi as a man of principle and a regionalist stalwart, Azo rue that his demise has created a vacuum which will be hard to fill. He further prayed that God Almighty will grant solace and strength to the bereaved members of the family in this hour of grief.

has expressed profound shock and sorrow at the sudden demise of Late Khekiho Zhimomi. In a press note, the Consulters offered prayerful condolences to the bereaving family members and said the unexpected loss of a leader is an irreparable loss to the community. The Church remembers with gratitude the yeomen service Lt. Zhimomi rendered for the people of Nagaland, it added.

ThenuchoTunyi: The former home minister of Nagaland, ThenuchoTunyi has expressed his deep sadness to learn about the sudden demise of his “dear friend” Khekiho Zhimomi. My association with Khekiho began during our early political careers, and it was a shared political ideology and mutual love for our people that has bonded us through the years, he said in a press condolence note. In his passing away we have lost a seasoned politician and a great statesman and a true trustworthy friend, he added.

“May his soul Rest in Peace.”

LEDF: The members of the Lotha Ex. Parliamentarians’ Forum (LEPF) expressed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of late Khekiho Sema.. Expressing its deep pain, the forum, in a press condolence issued by its chairman, Er. W. Kithan and secretary, Dr. Chumben Murry said an inconsolable grief and vacuum is deeply felt by his sudden demises and the members of the Forum pray that all the bereaved family members find solace and strength in God to bear the loss and grief. “May the soul of the departed find eternal rest and peace by the side of almighty God in heaven,” it added.

K V Pusa: The Former President Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) & Member AICC, K V Pusa has conveyed his deep sadness over untimely demise of late Khekiho Zhimomi. Describing Lt. Zhimomi as a helpful, optimistic and advocated the cause of development and welfare of the people, Pusa said a tall has been lost in his demise. “In this hour of grief I convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and pray to Almighty to grand solace to them and SOUN: The Sumi Officers’ Union peace to the departed soul,” he said.

Nagaland (SOUN) has expressed its deep shock to learn about the sudden RCN: Rongmei Council Nagaland demise of late MP Khekiho Zhimomi. (RCN) has conveyed its shock and sorDescribing him as not only a dedicated row to learn about the sad demise of at local leader but also at national level, Khekiho Zhimomi. RCN president, the SOUN in a press condolence issued Chingkhiulung Gonmei in a press conby its president, Himato Zhimomi and dolence acknowledged his immense secretary, Kikheto Sema stated Lt. Zhi- contribution towards the developmomi was a man of man of vision and ment of the State and rue over the loss contributed towards the betterment of a veteran leader. “In this hour of grief and upliftment of downtrodden people we convey my deepest condolences to in various capacities. The Union also the bereaved family members and pray offered prayers of peace and solace to to Almighty to grant comfort and peace the bereaved family at this hour of pain to the departed soul” it added. and tears, and wished an eternal peace to the departed soul.

Kuhoi Zhimo: The Ex-Member Ward-5, Dimapur municipal counBJP Kohima: The Bharatiya Jana- cil, Kuhoi Zhimo, also condole the ta Party Kohima district has mourned demise of late Khekiho Zhimomi. His the untimely demise of late Kheikiho demise at the start of has come as a Zhomomi. “His demise had caused a big jolt to all of us, Zhimo stated in a great loss to the Nagas. The BJP Party press note adding that Lt. Zhimomi conveys our heartfelt condolence to was a “regional Satrap” and he would the bereaved family and pray for the be missed by all the regionalist as his departed soul to rest in peace,” con- entire career was dedicated for its veyed Vidilhoulie Theünuo, president cause. “I, on my own behalf and on BJP Kohima District in a press note. behalf of my family convey our deepest condolences to the family memDiocese of Kohima: Most Rev. Dr. bers and pray for the departed soul to James Thoppil, the bishop of Kohima rest in eternal peace” he added.

FriDAY 27•11•2015

IN FOCUS

6

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express X iSSue 323X iSSue 185 ThurSDay 9volume July 2015 volume

By Dr. Sao Tunyi

Social obligations and professionalism

Y

ou must have experienced being assigned to do tasks and your name being put into committees without your consent. When making a program, many times we do not approach people before printing their names in the program. When organizing an event, we do not request people first before assigning them as in-charge of this or that. And when you see your name being printed and distributed, you feel ‘socially obligated’ to carry out the assignment. This is the way things work. If we ask people beforehand, they may refuse, so we first print their names.

If you feel socially obligated and carry out the work well, chances are that you will be assigned more and more in the days and years to come. We ought to do our best whatever assignment we are given to do. But when such assignments become unlimited and uncontrolled, things can go wrong.

We see people hopping from one meeting to the other. One can be so occupied with attending meetings, organizing programs and events, involving in this committee and that union works, and end up having no time for family or doing one’s primary work/vocation. If we are not focused and are involved in too many activities, chances are that the quality of our work will go down.

To excel in one’s profession, there is a need for detachment. We need detachment from external disturbances so that we can focus and concentrate on our professions.

But the way our society is, it is so hard to detach ourselves from the many social obligations. If some people do not show up for some social events, people start to talk behind their back. So, many times, we have to say ‘Yes’ when we want to say ‘No’.

We end up having people who are generalists but without any specialty. We produce mediocre and average people who are not excellent at anything. For example, a person may be a middle ranked government employee. He is also a wedding steward, treasurer of a youth organization, assistant general secretary of village welfare union, in-charge of accommodation for a church mission conference, and so on besides the many unofficial family responsibilities. We produce a lot of average ‘Jacks’ who know a little bit of this and that, and are in shortage of ‘Masters’, people who are really good at their trade and are known by it.

We also end up trying to fit square pegs in round holes. I sometimes am assigned duties for which I have neither the training nor the experience. For instance, not all have the gift of public speaking. But if someone is rich enough, we make them speakers. Our chief guest speeches are generally awful. We overwhelm talented people to do all sorts of unrelated and irrelevant things and do not allow them to develop in a focused area.

A friend in a city said that he was sometimes threatened by his tribesmen for not being active in the tribe’s activities. They asked him silly questions like, ‘who will carry your dead body home?’ But he was not deterred. His focus in his calling made him to excel and he has become the person to go to, when it comes to his line of work. The courage to say ‘No’ when we want to say ‘No’ is not easy because of the many social implications. But refusal to toe the line of the society has become a necessity if we want to excel at anything. Our society should also learn to allow the space for people who need detachment, be it a government office worker, thinker, entrepreneur, artist, writer, or a farmer so that he/she should engage his undivided attention to excel in his/her trade. It is for the good of everyone that we have quality people over quantity.

Dr. Sao Tunyi works as an Epidemiologist at Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Kohima. Feedback can be sent to saotunni@yahoo. co.in, or visit his blog www.thatchhouse.blogspot.in

lEfT WING |

Serge Halimi Le Monde diplomatique

France, the diplomatic shadow

T

o find a precedent for France’s current diplomatic self-effacement, one would have to go back to the Suez crisis of 1956 or the Algerian war. Neither the international conference on the environment to be held in Paris, norPresident François Hollande’s bellicose, inarticulate speeches, norhis foreign minister’s incorrigible self-satisfaction do much to mask France’s fall on the international stage.

That the country is following Germany’s lead in European affairs became evident during the Greek crisis.

The foreign minister seemed almost entirely absent; the finance minister was voluble but ineffectual; Hollande limited his role to being Germany’s messenger boy, entrusted with getting Alexis Tsipras to accept Angela Merkel’s draconian conditions. Even in the US there was surprise at EU harshness towards Greece.

Then news broke that US intelligence services had spied on three successive French presidents, including Hollande.

A French government spokesman immediately tried to play down the outrage — “We have to keep a sense of proportion.

We don’t want to cause diplomatic ruptures” — before going to Washington to discuss the transatlantic free trade agreement. “France’s response is verging on the ridiculous,” said Henri Guaino, a rightwing member of parliament. “For some time, we’ve just been following US policy,” said former minister Pierre Lellouche, who is known for his Atlanticism.

The most striking alignment is between France and Saudi Arabia, close enough to cause occasional irritation in the US. Though France did not manage to stop the agreement in July between the five great powers and Iran, as Saudi Arabia, Israel and Obama-hating US neoconservatives wished, it was not for want of trying, and with remarkable ill grace (see Enter the new power brokers).

With Syria, France’s desire to “punish” Bashar al-Assad owes less to the barbarity of his regime than the desire to keep in with the Gulf states (especially Saudi Arabia), which have vowed to bring him down. Yet the kingdom — Sunni fundamentalism’s birthplace, international banker, and spearhead for murderous repression of Shia in Bahrain and Yemen — fights against most of the human rights that France claims to champion elsewhere France’s choices do not primarily stem from faulty strategic analysis. They feed the paranoia of monarchs who fear being surrounded by Iran and its allies, in order to sell them more arms. Mission accomplished — prime minister Manuel Valls, on his return from Riyadh in October, tweeted: “France-Saudi Arabia: €10bn worth of contracts! The government mobilised for our businesses and jobs.”

C O M M E N T A R Y

Maayan Lubell Reuters

Bibi Times: Netanyahu's tangled relationship with Israel's media

"Y

ou have to play the media like a piano," an adviser recalls being told by his ex-boss, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

But critics say Netanyahu, known as "Bibi", is hitting the wrong note when it comes to the media, weakening press freedom and holding sway over TV broadcasters in a country that bills itself as the Middle East's only true democracy.

Already Israel's longest-serving leader since David Ben-Gurion, Netanyahu wields broad power. As well as being prime minister he is economy minister, foreign minister, regional cooperation minister and communications minister.

That concentration of authority has raised eyebrows among critics, particularly when it comes to the media.

Elected to a fourth term in March this year, opponents, members of the press and media experts say Netanyahu not only enjoys the unbending support of Israel's most popular newspaper but holds the keys to the survival of two TV news channels, too.

The prime minister, who heads a right-wing coalition and has described broadcasters as overly critical, says his aim is to strengthen pluralism, bring in new players and boost competition in a sector many Israelis see as leaning heavily left.

"I completely reject claims that I'm trying to take over the media. I am in favour of a multiplicity of channels," Netanyahu told Israeli journalists in a briefing in May. Rather than the nightly news, it is the free-sheet morning press that many opponents see as promoting Bibi's agenda.

Since 2007, U.S. casino billionaire Sheldon Adelson, a major Netanyahu supporter, has published a free handout called Israel Hayom, Israel Today. It now has the nation's largest circulation, eclipsing Yedioth Ahronoth, founded in 1939.

With a daily dose of pro-Bibi headlines, and often recycling the government's talking points verbatim, the newspaper has drawn criticism even from members of Netanyahu's government.

"Israel Hayom is Pravda, it’s the mouthpiece of one man – the prime minister," Education Minister Naftali Bennett, who heads a far-right, pro-settlement party, said last year.

Adelson bats away criticism of his publication.

Debating last year whether Israel can be both Jewish and democratic, he said: "I don't think the Bible says anything about democracy ... Israel isn't going to be a democratic state. So what?"

A spokesman for Adelson did not respond to a request for comment.

In court documents filed in February in reply to a petition requesting the paper be declared propaganda and banned ahead of the election, the newspaper and Netanyahu both said the prime minister had no present or past involvement in Israel Hayom or what it prints.

But the paper did say its ideology was in line with Netanyahu, whose office has acknowledged that he is a "personal friend" of the paper's editor and owner.

The Supreme Court rejected the petition.

Several Israel Hayom journalists declined to comment, but foreign affairs editor Boaz Bismuth said the criticism was based on animosity towards Netanyahu and competitors' anger at losing ground to the paper.

"In seven years I've never had any interaction about what I write with anyone outside," he said. "I report to my editor."

Yedioth Ahronoth, which has lost advertising revenue as its circulation has fallen behind Israel Hayom, is critical of Netanyahu. That has led to public spats, with Netanyahu accusing its publisher of trying to overthrow his leadership.

Yedioth's publisher, Noni Mozes, did not respond to requests for comment, but the newspaper said its journalists operated with utmost professionalism, as expected in a free democracy.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends the weekly cabinet meeting at his office in Jerusalem on November 22, 2015. (Reuters Photo)

"Journalism's role is to expose wrongdoing and "in the coming days". The prime minister's office did criticize the government," the newspaper said. "Re- not respond to a request for comment. grettably this is not taken for granted any more with the direction in which Israeli media is headed in the BROADCAST OVERHAUL past few years."

As well as IBA, which Avrutsky described as "just one link in the creation of a docile, submissive meSELF-CENSORSHIP dia", Netanyahu's communications role gives him The tangles over Israel Hayom are only one area a say over the future of Israel's most popular news in which critics see Netanyahu as being compro- show, Channel Two News. mised. There is greater concern about the influence Under a separate government-led initiative, he has over TV operations as Israel's communica- Channel Two, a commercial station, is expected to tions minister. be split up by 2017, which would lead to the break-up The country is in the midst of government-man- of its news operation. dated reforms that will transform the broadcast A panel set up by Netanyahu to overhaul broadlandscape, and as communications minister, Netan- casting regulation is meant to submit its findings yahu is driving the changes. by the end of the year. The liquidation of IBA, and State-run Israel Broadcasting Authority (IBA) the establishment of a better-run state broadcaster, is expected to be shut down and replaced by a new is widely seen as positive in Israel. But any changes body. The reforms have been in the works for a while, to the free-to-air commercial stations, Channel Two but since taking over the communications portfolio and 10, are seen as a concern. in May, IBA journalists say Netanyahu has made his Amnon Abramovitz, Channel Two's political anpresence felt from afar. alyst and a Netanyahu critic, said the government Fearing for their careers, journalists say output overhaul amounted to bullying by the prime minishas become less critical of Netanyahu. ter.

"When was the last time you saw us run a report "When you have a loaded gun, you don't have that shook up the government?" IBA reporter Rotem to shoot it, everyone knows you have it," he told ReAvrutsky told Reuters. uters. "There's no direct warning, but there is this "Censorship is the minds of the journalists. constant threat in knowing he, as communications They're afraid of their professional future." minister, rules and can set up new channels."

A public council is meant to oversee the process For Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler, the Israel Democof winding up IBA and establishing its successor. But racy Institute's media expert, the prime minister its members, selected months ago, have not been ap- wants to get even with critics. proved by Netanyahu. That means decision-making "Netanyahu wants to educate and in some ways remains in the hands of the ministry's director-gen- even take vengeance on the media," she said. "But in eral, who was appointed by the prime minister. Bitter this war, no one is innocent, no side is clean." disputes over budgets and layoffs have ensued.

Israel Hayom, Yedioth Ahronoth, Channel Two, "He is constantly creating an atmosphere of fi- Channel 10 and the IBA all have an axe to grind in nancial and existential uncertainty, keeping people one way or another. Yet Shwartz Altshuler sees Neon their toes and by that creating leverage," said Elad tanyahu as spinning the grindstone.

Man, a legal analyst for The Seventh Eye, a long-run"He tells people, 'don't pay attention to what ning Israeli media review programme. is written, they are liars, don't believe them'. This The Communications Ministry said approval of comes with a price," she said. "It gives him shortthe council was delayed by Jewish holidays in Sep- term gains at the ballot box, but in the long term it is tember and October and the process would continue detrimental to democracy."

Revisiting Aruna Shanbaug’s on 27th November

S

Devansh Shrivastava

he struggled with life and death for 42 years. Was it her stubbornness or defiance to the elusive justice? Was it life that betrayed her or death which emancipated her? Can we resist the ideology which is embedded profoundly in the societal structure itself or which engenders a heinous crime like rape? She will keep reminding us of the relentless struggle and suffering which the survivors of sexual violence live with across the globe.

A unique feature of the past is that it takes the human conscience to eternal heights of empathy. Being able to tell the world a horrendous tale of struggle and trauma as a rape survivor not only questions the very foundations of our conscience but also evokes a perplexed response as to why do such acts of heinousness happen at all. The ability of such tales to travel across borders and find solidarity within the ubiquitous fabric of human emotions gives us a shared sense of understanding life.

Whether it be South Sudan, Rwanda, Palestine, Kashmir, Gujarat, Nagaland or any other place, horrific stories of sexual violence either by the state or the non state actors with impunity continue to remind us of the patriar-

chal structure we live in. Such violence doesn’t happen in isolation but emerges somewhere from within us.

One such story which had a closure this year is that of Aruna Shanbaug who passed away after 42 years of ordeal with life as well as death leaving some indelible questions. Since getting heinously raped and sodomized in 1973, she had been living in a vegetative state in the King Edward Memorial Hospital Mumbai. Today is the date when the shattering incident took place in her life. Her death is not only a reminder of the justice which survivors of sexual violence fight for but also how mute and dormant institutional mechanisms become to deliver justice which is exponentially far away from law.

Aruna’s life as a motivated nurse committed to her duty in a big city like Mumbai, her aspirations, feelings towards a colleague and her plans for marriage came to a permanent halt with one life shattering incident. Suddenly life went through an immediate transition from normalcy to rarity of strangeness where she could not recover from the inex-

plicable trauma of suffering. The four walls of a room were her constant companion for the past four decades.

Her life and the transition have been articulately covered by Pinki Virani in her book “Aruna’s Story”.

Very often an act of sexual violence makes us condemn the act of atrocity by and large but do we understand a survivor’s life as well as the roots of such atrocity itself. An individual’s life isn’t just bound to a particular atrocity being committed on them. It is about their lived life, emotions, sorrow, joy, aspirations, stories, thoughts, responsibilities, and so on which have been a part of them since birth. These connections in our everyday lives form our existence in the social sphere.

Any act of sexual violence tends to camouflage the individual’s connections but why don’t we outrage collectively at the structures which lead to such violence. What we need to understand is whether her ordeal and struggle can help us strive towards fighting gendered norms, stereotypes, power and patriarchal structures at institutional level like judicial, social, and po-

WRITE-WING

litical to imagine a present devoid of violence and a better future.

Some emerging thoughts from Aruna’s life journey are- what significance does her life struggle hold for us today? Would she have survived for four decades if she didn’t have the support of fellow nurses in the hospital? Was the human conscience responding as actively to her misery as when it claims women as the sole bearers of their “honor”? Is it only death or suffering which should remind us of the urgency to act concretely as a force against everyday stereotypes about women, hegemonic structures of patriarchy etc? Or do we wish to differentiate ourselves as well as our own respective societies as the incident didn’t happen in the vicinity or to a known person?

Such heinous acts of sexual violence should be symbolic for us to deconstruct the established structures around us and to allow us comprehend the various elements attached to it. To be in someone’s shoes is quite difficult but an attempt to understand somebody’s life is the first step towards creating a humane space which evokes awakenings of consciousness.

Devansh Shrivastava is masters student of Peace and Conflict Studies at Tata Institute of Social Sciences Guwahati

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FriDAY 27•11•2015

PERSPECTIVE

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Amid Failure and Chaos, an Ebola Vaccine Tina Rosenberg

E

NYT

bola lingers. A 15-year-old boy in Monrovia, Liberia, his father and his brother are sick with the disease, the first cases in Liberia since June.

How the boy caught Ebola is a mystery, but it is likely he had contact with an Ebola survivor. The virus also lingers in the body — and can sicken its host and infect others — even months after recovery.

There will most likely be more cases in this epidemic. But now, greater awareness and new tools are in place to contain them better, including a tool we have never had before: an effective vaccine.

Last year, Ebola became an international crisis that killed 11,300 people because of a failure of political will, according to a new report from Harvard and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Countries with the outbreak played down the initial cases and delayed reporting the outbreak to the World Health Organization until March 2014, three months after it began. The international response was unconscionably late. The W.H.O. did not declare an emergency until August, and only in September did large-scale international help reach the scene.

But since then, one thing has moved with record speed. In October 2014, researchers began Phase 1 safety trials of potential Ebola vaccines. By late March, one of them was saving lives in Guinea. A process that normally takes years had been compressed into six months.

The Ebola vaccine is a double achievement. Researchers proved the effectiveness not just of a novel vaccine, but also of a novel method of testing it rapidly, in chaotic conditions and without traditional clinical trials. Even as it was being tested, the vaccine was helping to contain Ebola. Today, hopes are high that it will administer the coup de grace to the epidemic.

How was this achieved? And what can the world learn that will save lives and money in fighting future outbreaks of Ebola or other pathogens?

Ebola is a fearsome virus — but not to vaccine researchers. Making an Ebola vaccine has proved to be straightforward. By the time of the outbreak, in fact, several vaccine candidates had already been tested in animals and been found safe and effective. That had happened because of the very fear the disease inspires — paradoxically not in Africa, but in North America.

“None of these vaccines were designed to protect Africans during an outbreak,” said Adrian Hill, director of the Jenner Institute, a vaccine research group at the University of Oxford. “Their development was all funded to protect North Americans against bioterrorists using the Ebola virus.”

Animal testing is the easy part; what’s hard is moving beyond it. Vaccine development requires lots of money and attention, and the cruel fact is that both are always scarce for poor-country diseases. That is even more true for pathogens that begin with small outbreaks in remote areas. Vaccines may be needed only at some future day, in tiny quantities — or, hopefully, not at all.

“Everybody realizes there is no market for the industry,” said Marie-Paule Kieny, assistant director-general of the World Health Organization for Health Systems and Innovation. “You can’t just rely on the private sector to invest — there is no revenue for them. You need a coalition of the willing — philanthropists, but this is mainly the responsibility of governments.”

Outbreak pathogens include Ebola; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, which caused 774 deaths 12 years ago; and its cousin, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. They hold the world’s attention while they rage — and then are quickly forgotten. “There were many vaccines in development for SARS, and after it ended they all stopped,” said David Heymann, head of the Center on Global Health Security at Chatham House.

“If they had continued, now we would have a vaccine platform into which you could put a related virus” — like MERS, which has killed some 600 people and is not yet extinguished.

A

re you young, energetic, creative, ambitious and need a job? Africa’s agriculture sector needs you!

This is a potential sales pitch to Africa’s “youth dividend” to make a living from agriculture, considered a less attractive sector for a career but the mainstay of a number of economies on the continent.

Agriculture is keeping more than 1.1 billion Africans fed but those who produce the food are not young, well resourced, and technologically savvy or with the convincing image to boot. There is growing concern that family farming may fail to keep food on Africa’s tables for long.

Development researchers say unless young people – aged 14 to 24 – are attracted to farming, any financial and technological investments into agriculture will not guarantee food security in Africa.

Young farmers like Beauty Manake, from Botswana, have taken the challenge head on and have found success. Africa needs more farmers like her.

Manake left a career job at 25 and started farming. Today she runs horticulture and a livestock farms, two agriculture enterprises, she says are the best business investments she has ever made.

“The initial motivation for me to go into farming was to make money very fast and in the shortest period of time but now my passion for nurturing a plant from a seedling to a sellable product has surpassed that financial outlook,” Manake told IPS. “I have faced a lot of pressure as young farmer as Africa is faced with ageing farmers, I have to ensure that we intensify the way we farm to fill this gap as the food basket is at risk.”

The quest to end global hunger, achieve food security and improve nutrition while promoting sustainable agriculture is the basis for the new Sustainable Development Goal 2 agreed to by global leaders at the United Nations in New York last September. This goal will be fruitless unless agriculture in Africa is improved to create jobs and attract young farmers.

Hunger, nutrition and sustainable agriculture are key development challenges in Africa. Agriculture employs more than 60 per cent of the population and is a major contributor to the GDP of many African countries as well as keeping entire communities fed.

Another obstacle: Medicine’s standard of evidence is the Phase 3 clinical trial, which divides thousands of patients at random into vaccinated or vaccinated-withplacebo groups, and then counts how many get sick in each. But for that, you need a big outbreak.

Ebola was plenty big – at first. By the time a vaccine was ready to test, it wasn’t. A Phase 3 clinical trial began in Liberia last February, seeking to enroll 27,000 people to test the effectiveness of two top single-dose vaccine candidates. But less than three weeks later, new cases halted. Now only isolated outbreaks continue. It has been great news for the world — but bad news for testing a vaccine.

The Liberia trial could start so rapidly because, after September 2014, all the steps necessary to bring a vaccine to human trials were put on emergency footing by an alphabet soup of agencies, national governments, funders and research groups. “There was a clear decision that there was no choice — there must absolutely be acceleration of research and development even if we might be too late,” said Kieny. “There was enormous good will in all involved stakeholders — industry to make it, clinical investigators to drop all other clinical trials and liberate their centers to do this particular trial.

Regulators and ethics review boards allowed the protocols to jump the queue.”

“The main thing that moved it forward was partnerships,” said Swati Gupta, Executive Director for Public Health and Scientific Affairs at Merck Vaccines. “There was unprecedented multinational collaboration.”

Two vaccines were tested beginning in September and October in Phase 1 trials — small trials for safety and immunogenicity (whether the vaccine provokes an immune response) in volunteers at multiple sites. One was developed by the United States National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and GlaxoSmithKline, and another by the Public Health Agency of Canada and licensed to NewLink Genetics and then Merck.

A third, two-dose vaccine followed in December: a two-stage vaccine whose development was funded by the United States National Institutes of Health and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority — the bio-threat agency Hill was describing.

Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen Pharmaceuticals holds the license.

While researchers were working, logistics experts in affected countries built a chain of super-cold facilities using batteries and solar power, since both vaccines need to be held at around -80 degrees Celsius (-112 Fahrenheit) in countries without reliable electricity.

Meanwhile, researchers were getting financing. Hill, who led Oxford studies of the GSK vaccine, said that his application for funding to the Wellcome Trust, a British biomedical research foundation, was turned around in 12 days.

All this came together to enable the Phase 3 clinical trial of the Merck and GSK vaccines in Liberia — which very quickly fizzled out. The measure of a vaccine is whether it prevents infection in people exposed to a disease. With Ebola fading, how could that be tested?

Researchers turned to ring vaccination — vaccination of everyone in contact with a sick person, and the contacts of those contacts. It had been used once before, to complete the eradication of smallpox, but never to test a vaccine.

Researchers in Guinea started ring vaccination with Merck’s vaccine in late March. To test effectiveness, contacts were vaccinated in 48 Ebola cases. In a control group of 42 other cases, contacts of the sick had to wait three weeks before getting vaccine.

In the control group, 16 people developed Ebola.

But of those who were vaccinated, after the few days necessary for the vaccine to take effect, no one got sick.

In other words, the vaccination needed 6 days to take effect, and after that conferred 100 percent protection against Ebola. On July 24, the trial was stopped and all participants were vaccinated right away.

The other two vaccines never underwent Phase 3 trials, because Ebola cases had run out.

One potential problem with the Merck vaccine is its side effects: fever and arthritis pain that are temporary, but annoying. Another is that it might confer only very short-term protection. As with all new vaccines, we don’t know how long protection lasts; to find out if a vaccine lasts 10 years, you have to wait 10 years.

The Janssen vaccine could be longer-lasting, because it consists of a prime vaccine and then a different vaccine as a booster shot. Paul Stoffels, chief scientific officer and worldwide chairman for pharmaceuticals at Johnson & Johnson, said that nine months into a trial, the vaccine was still working in those first vaccinated. A short-acting vaccine is adequate for emergencies, but a long-acting vaccine would best protect health care and burial workers.

Luciana Borio, acting chief scientist of the United States Food and Drug Administration, said that officials were discussing plans for using the Merck vaccine to protect contacts of the new Ebola patients in Liberia.

Ebola lingers in another way. While the next pathogen to hit might be a disease we’ve never seen, it’s more likely to be a strain of Ebola. The virus lives in wild animals, and so can never be eradicated. There have been two dozen outbreaks in Africa since Ebola was discovered in 1976: last year, one in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, unrelated to the West Africa epidemic, killed 49 people while the world wasn’t looking.

Ebola is one of 15 outbreak pathogens that have emerged in the last 15 years, Hill said. All, like Ebola before last year, have potential vaccines available that have worked in animals — some better than others.

Kieny is convening meetings of researchers, funders and officials to draw up a global get-ready plan, which will begin with an attempt to identify the threats most likely to emerge, and plan for research and development.

Before being used in an outbreak, vaccine candidates must have already completed animal tests and Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials, so we know they are safe and can provoke an immune system response. They then must be manufactured to the highest standards and stockpiled in a large enough quantity for emergency use. Regulators in developed countries and countries likely to be hit must grant clearance to use the vaccine.

And for all of this, there must be sustained money and attention — “in peacetime,” as Kieny puts it.

In an outbreak, a vaccine could be used as part of a clinical trial, either a standard trial or a ring vaccination trial. But there are also other ways. Borio of the F.D.A. said some vaccines had been licensed based on strong safety and immunogenicity data alone, without any trials of effectiveness in humans; one example is the flu vaccine, which every year covers new strains.

Another challenge is persuading pharmaceutical companies to manufacture these vaccines on a large scale. Stoffels said that Johnson & Johnson put $200 million into developing its Ebola vaccine candidate, with no guarantees of repayment. Pharmaceutical companies take risks with every drug, but these vaccines are particularly bad financial risks, and Janssen made 800,000 doses of its vaccine before knowing if it would be approved. “We can do that — once,” Stoffels said. “To do this many times, to get to a systematic response, there has to be an incentive.” He said that one option could be to give pharmaceutical companies accelerated regulatory review of another of their drugs.

“These do not look like difficult vaccines to make,” said Hill. “Ebola worked the first time. We can do 10 in a similar fashion and they’re likely to work. It will cost tens of millions of dollars to make a small stockpile — a hundred million for a licensed product. But Ebola cost the world billions.”

Tina Rosenberg won a Pulitzer Prize for her book “The Haunted Land: Facing Europe’s Ghosts After Communism.” She is a former editorial writer for The Times and the author, most recently, of “Join the Club: How Peer Pressure Can Transform the World” and the World War II spy story e-book “D for Deception.” She is a co-founder of the Solutions Journalism Network, which supports rigorous reporting about responses to social problems.

Are young people the answer to Africa’s food security?

Busani Bafana Inter Press Service

smallholders cultivate an average of two hectares of land, are not getting younger to keep pace with the demands of farming.

Anecdotal evidence suggests the average age of farmers in Africa is over 60, bad news for agricultural production given that family farmers who cultivate more than 80 per cent of the arable land are responsible for the bulk of food production on the continent.

But are aging farmers and youth disinterest in farming the real obstacles to food security in Africa?

Jim Sumberg, Agriculturalist and Research Fellow at the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex in Brighton, England, thinks otherwise.

Writing in the Future Agricultures blog, Sumberg argues that claims about an aging farm population, the increasing risk of food insecurity and a lost opportunity to bring young people into agriculture and the evidence on which they are based needs closer scrutiny. Citing the problem of generally poor quality official statistics, especially demographic data in much of Africa, and clarity of the definition of what constitutes a farmer, much more is needed., Sumberg says an analysis into the trends and developments that African agriculture over the last decade is necessary.

“But first and foremost there is a need for vision: what kind of agrifood sector will provide work opportunities for young people (and others) that allow real incomes and capabilities to be enhanced, and at the same time address social equity and exclusion issues? This is the question that policy makers and development professionals – whether they start with a focus on young people or on agriculture – and citizens more broadly urgently need to address,” said Sumberg.

Behind the call for ‘youthing’ African agriculture is the Alliance for the Green Catching them young African farmers, many of whom are Revolution in Africa (AGRA) which at its

annual Africa Green Revolution Forum convened in Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, in September 2015, dedicated discussions on the participation of youth and women in agriculture.

“African youth present an unprecedented opportunity to deal with the constraints and challenges holding back improvements in agricultural productivity,” says the AGRA’s flagship report, Africa Agriculture Status Report: Youth in Agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa, launched at the Forum. “Channelling the energy, strength, and dynamism of Africa’s youth into productive, competitive and profitable agribusinesses (including food production) will boost agricultural productivity, ensure sustainable food production system, create jobs, and generate incomes.”

The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation says global food production has to increase by at least 60 per cent to adequately feed more than 9 billion people who will be on earth by 2050. Agriculture generates 2.4 trillion dollars for the global economy from the more than one billion people working in the sector around the world, according to figures from FAO and the World Bank.

Africa is enjoying new investor interest thanks to its abundant mineral and natural resources and is home to six of the fastest growing economies but is rapidly urbanising. Nearly 1.3 billion people, currently population of China, will live in cities in Africa in the next 15 years, according to UN-Habitat, the United Nations Programme for Human Settlements.

African agricultural output is valued at more than 280 billion dollars and the sector contributes in excess of 30 per cent of the continent’s GDP, presenting a fresh opportunity to tackle youth unemployment and food insecurity.

which says that 10 million young Africans enter the workforce annually. However, opportunities for them in agriculture are hampered by a combination of factors such as limited access to land, financial credit and improved technologies. In addition young people lack practical skills and basic literacy while social norms largely exclude them from decision-making and vest control in older generations.

Data from the International Labour Organisation’s Global Employment Trends for Youth 2013 indicates that youth unemployment in sub-Saharan Africa is higher than adult unemployment. Youth in SSA are twice as likely to be unemployed than are adults.

Strong research evidence based on demographic and current constraints faced by youths in entering agriculture will build a stronger case for effective policies and continued investment in the sector.

While ensuring food security is strategic, Africa needs to also tackle post harvest losses and reduce food waste, which the FAO estimates to amount to a third of global food production which is equivalent of 1.3 billion tonnes or the amount produced in the whole of the sub-Saharan Africa.

Pro-food policies needed Supportive agriculture policies too are key, says food policy advocate and Chief Executive Officer of the Food Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN), Lindiwe Majele Sibanda.

“It is clear that the future of Africa rests in its young people and there is an imperative need to create opportunities for economic growth, skills, prosperity and innovation in the agriculture sector to fight poverty and end hunger,” Majele Sibanda said. “Africa needs evidence based policies that are informed by those who are most affected and the problems that we are dealing with now are the youth who are unemployed and the youth that are uneducated.”

Majele Sibanda said the youth must demand their space in agriculture and make governments listen because participation will not be given on a platter.

As Africa seeks to promote and hopefully implement the new SDGs, could priming policy makers to create conducive Barriers to youth entry into agriculture policy frameworks and get governments Africa has almost 200 million people to accelerate investments in agriculture be aged 15-24 making it the youngest con- the seeds for growing the continent’s future tinent, according to the African Union food producers? Food for thought.

7

Paris, the Refugees and Europe Roberto Savio

T

Inter Press Service

he focus on terrorism is obscuring the issues of refugees, and it is important to consider its impact on Europe, after the shock of Paris.

Of course, the impact of terrorism in the daily life of ordinary citizens is going to increase the culture of checks and controls in place since September 11, 2001. Since the New York massacre, the 10,000 planes that take off daily carry citizens who go through vexing security checks, and cannot bring liquid on boards, etc. Osama Bin Laden has changed totally our way of travelling. It is no small achievement, and Paris will increase that trend.

Let us not forget that we have ample literature from ISIS making it clear that its strategy is to get the West to react against the Muslim living in their countries, by erecting a wall of distrust and discrimination, so as to radicalise them as much as possible. There are 44 million Muslims living in the West: if they felt shunned and discriminated against, they would be a formidable force, well beyond the 50,000 fighters who now carry the ISIS project of domination. Since at least 50 per cent of them now come from the West (there were only Iraqi and Syrians at the beginning), the jihad is becoming much more globalised Estimates say now that ISIS is recruiting about 3,000 foreigners every month. The massacre of Paris will only increase this confrontation.

Writing in the Washington Post’s opinion pages last weekend, counterterrorism analyst Harleen Gambhir said ISIS has set a dangerous trap for Europe with the Paris attacks. He recalls that, after the attacks on Charlie Hebdo, its website said that such attacks “compel the Crusaders (the West) to actively destroy the grey zone themselves… Muslims in the West will quickly find themselves between one of two choices, they either apostatise…or they will join the Caliphate”.

The fact that near one of the kamikaze was found a Syrian passport that could show that he came as a refugee is going to have a deep impact on the present policy on refugees. In the US, already about half the 50 state governors have declared that they will not admit Syrians. And Polish Prime Minister, Beata Szydlo, has already declared that in view of the Paris attacks Poland will not accept European Union (EU) quotas for asylum seekers.

This is a final blow for the Syrians. They have lost 250,000 people during the war, and they have now over 4 million refugees. To view all of them as terrorists is a total nonsense. But it is a nonsense which plays well in the hands of xenophobic and right wing parties, which have sprouted all over Europe, as well as of the Republicans during the US electoral campaign. In the polls, Marine Le Pen, Matteo Salvini and all right wing parties, with their speeches on security and controls, are finding consensus among a scared population. The German nationalist party will now certainly sit in the Parliament. Xenophobes and nationalists play a very irresponsible game, but it pays, and that is enough. No media are debating the ISIS trap, busy with their ritual stories on Paris. But this is medium term problem.

In the short term, Europeans will probably lose the benefits of the Schengen agreement: free circulation inside Europe. France has re-established border controls, as have Sweden, Germany and Slovenia.

Hungary built a fence to protect its border with Serbia, and now Austria is doing the same. And, if Europe becomes a fortress and closes its borders, thousands of refugees will remain blocked in the Balkans, exasperating an already difficult situation. Eastern Europe has made clear that they will resist EU quotas. But the EU plan of resettlement of 120,000 men and woman, has so far resettled a grand total of 327 people all over Europe. The chairman of EU, Jean-Claude Juncker, has calculated that at this speed it will take until 2100 to implement the plan.

And Europe, even with right wing parties in power, will have to conduct a very difficult war with terrorism and refugees, at the same time. Until now it gave to Syrians priority in entering Europe. The Syrian passport found near one of the kamikaze is going to reopen that rule. It is irrelevant that the Syrian refugees are the consequence of a conflict started by Europe (like Libya). Fear will win over solidarity, if the latter was ever really available. A sense of guilt and remorse are hardly visible in European history.

We have now 60 million refugees. They would make the 23rd country of the world. But refugees are coming not only from war, but also because of sex discrimination (homosexuals in Africa, girls in Boko Harama and Yazhid territories); religions (just think of the Rohinga in Myanmar); climate refugees (they will grow exponentially, after 2020, since the coming conference of Paris will not solve climate warming).

Today, somebody from Yemen is not accepted as a refugee. Yet there is a war, which is destroying its cities, under Saudi bombing. And Europe sticks to the definition of refugee as somebody escaping conflicts, then decides which conflicts are acceptable? And what about economic migrants, who escape hunger, not war? Does the distinction between refugees and immigrants make sense any longer?

By now, we know that the second or third generations of immigrants do not accept hardship for integration as their parents did. They are educated to a European standard of life and, if left out, they feel humiliated. The Caliphate becomes a way to get dignity, and escape the sad frustrations of a life without a future. And the reality is that Europe is not culturally prepared to accept people from different religions and different cultures.

There is a longing for a homogenous Europe (very much the way Japan goes). Of course, in schools that is changing, but young people are not in power. The demographic decline of the continent (it would lose 10 per cent of its population by 2030, according to United Nations projections, without immigrants or refugees), does not seep into collective consciousness. We will see, in the near future: a) a change of policy on refugees, b) a political success of the xenophobic parties, c) a decline of the European dream, and d) a new impossible challenge for Europe: how to keep out millions of people, without losing its identity, which is traditionally based on solidarity, tolerance and human values.

Roberto Savio, founder and president emeritus of the Inter Press Service (IPS) news agency and publisher of Other News.

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

FridAY 27•11•2015

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Nobody has right to ask Aamir Khan to go to Pakistan: Mamata

KolKATA, November 26 (iANS): Coming out in the open in support of Aaamir Khan, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said nobody had the right to ask the actor to go to Pakistan.

"Whatever Aamir has said, whether it is correct or not, this is his personal right," Banerjee said refering to the Bollywood hero's controversial remarks that his wife Kiran Rao had discussed moving out of India in view of growing intolerance, fearing safety of their children.

"His wife told him something. And he talked about it. It is his democratic right. He is being asked to leave the country."

Apparently targeting the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Sangh parivar, she said some people were behaving as if the country belonged only to them.

"This is our place of birth, place of work. Nobody has the right to tell anybody that you go to Pakistan, you leave the country. We are all Indians."

In a combative mood, Banerjee, also the Trinamool Congress chief, said she had no problem if the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was used against her and she was jailed for speaking in favour of secularism.

"Whenever anyone speaks out against them,

'Slap' Aamir Khan, get Rs 1 lakh as reward: Shiv Sena ChANDigArh, November 26 (AgeNCieS): Even as Aamir Khan continues to be at the centre of a raging debate after he expressed "alarm and despondency" over the rise in incidents of intolerance, the Shiv Sena has announced a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh for anyone slapping the Bollywood superstar, media reports said on Thursday.

The cash reward was reportedly announced by Punjab unit Shiv Sena chairman Rajeev Tandon.

Huge number of Shiv Sena supporters on Wednesday had gathered outside MBD Radisson Blu in Ludhiana where Aamir is staying. He is shooting for his upcoming flick Dangal, slated to release next year.

The protesters used derogatory language angianst Aamir and burnt his phtotographs.

Acting swiftly, Ludhiana Police stepped up Bollywood's 'Mr Perfectionist' security. they threaten a CBI probe.

I say do it. So long they are in power, let them do whatever they can. But beware, it's great to have guts, but not great to be audacious.

"Because I talk of secularism, if somebody tries to use the CBI against me, I tell them go ahead. If you put me in jail, I would remain in people's jail. it'd be great. I will get a few days' rest".

Banerjee alleged that many celebrities were being threatened to issue counter-statements oppos-

Aamir, 50, had said: "For the last six to eight months, there has been a growing despondency I would say. Kiran (wife Kiran Rao) and I have lived all our life in India. When I sit at home and talk to Kiran, for the first time she said, 'Should we move out of India?'

Now that's a very disastrous and a big comment to make to me."

Aamir yesterday asserted that he stood by his comments and made it clear that neither he nor his wife Kiran Rao have any intention of leaving the country.

"First let me state categorically that neither I, nor my wife Kiran, have any intention of leaving the country. We never did, and nor would we like to in the future.

"Anyone implying the opposite has either not seen my interview or is deliberately trying to distort what I have said. India is my country, I love it, I feel fortunate for being born here, and this is where I am staying," he said.

ing actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Aaamir and A.R. Rahman, who have spoken about rising intolerance.

She claimed even her party MP and Bollywood actor Mithun Chakraborty was too terrorised to even speak to her.

"Even a person like Mithun Chakraborty cannot speak to me out of fear. He is my party MP... the way he is terrorised."

Banerjee warned that if the intolerance continued all limits, she would lead a

We stand by India in fight against terror: Israel New Delhi, November 26 (PTi): On the occasion of the seventh anniversary of Mumbai terror attacks in which two of its nationals were also killed, Israel today said it stands

by India in its tireless efforts to fight and eliminate terror.

"We remember today the horrible attacks of 26/11 in Mumbai. The attacks that happened exactly 7 years ago, took the lives hundreds of people, including Israelis, and had left many more with physical and emotional scars.

"It is a day that reminds us all the threat of extremist terror against democracies and the free world by those who are committed to the killing of people who do not share their fanatic mindset and views," a Israeli embassy statement said. It further said the day emphasises even more the need for us all to unite in the face of extremist terror.

"Terror can strike anywhere and at any time. Acts of terror happen in Mumbai, Paris, New York, Buenos Aires, Bamako, Jerusalem and other places but those who wish to spread the threat of terror will not prevail. "Israel, also a victim of continuous acts of terror, as always stands by the Indian people, government and security forces, in their tireless efforts to fight and eliminate terror," it added.

Two Israeli and same number of Israeli-American were among the victims of 26/11 terror strikes in Mumbai in 2008 in which 166 people were killed.

'Pendency of cases biggest challenge to legal system'

march of people to Delhi.

"I know of lot of incidents. Remember, don't cross the limits. If the limits are breached, then not only Bengal, you (the people) will go to Delhi with me."

Stepping up her attack on the BJP-led central government, Banerjee said while it had called a special sitting of parliament to celebrate the 125th birth anniversary celebrations of Bhim Rao Ambedkar, at the same time it was "crossing all limits of tolerance".

"So long you are occupying the chair, you have to abide by the constitution and show your respect and love to people of all faiths."

The chief minister said a terrorist should not be linked to any mainstram community.

"A terrorist has no caste, creed, and religion. A Hindu can be a terrorist, a Muslim can be a terrorist. But he is not a terrorist because he is a hindu or muslim. As an individual he is a terrorist."

Flaying those trying to

dictate to the people what they should "eat or wear", Banerjee said: "Why should people have to give clarification for eating beef? It is their choice."

She claimed that a demand was raised for banning cow slaughter during last month's Durga puja celebration. "Why should I stop slaughter of cows during Durga puja? Those who like it will have it. Those who don't will not have. So long I am there, I am not going to do all this."

New Delhi, November 26 (iANS): Chief Justice of India H.L.Dattu on Thursday said that the delay in disposal of cases and their pendency was the single most challenge that confronts country's legal system and innovative ways have to be found out to address the situation.

"If right to access justice is to remain meaningful then it should be the disposal of cases within a reasonable time," he said, noting that "delay (in disposal of cases) and pendency was the single most important challenge that India's legal system is facing". Speaking at a function by the Supreme Court Bar Association on the occasion on the National Law Day, Chief Justice Dattu said that in 2014, the apex court had disposed off an "unprecedented" number of 83,013 cases - the highest number of cases decided by the top court in any one year.

Crediting his brother judges and the members of the bar, he cautioned against any sense of complacency saying that disposal of such a large number of cases was an unprecedented bench mark and cautioned "not to feel complacent but keep an eye on the rising number of cases because we are judged not by what we have done but what we have not done".

Nuclear capable Arihant submarine 'Constitution's judicious use will guide progress' direction' Delhi, Novem- the Constitution" as a part the constitution had met try's progress," she said. successfully test-fires unarmed missile New The speaker also stressed ber 26 (iANS): Lok Sabha of 125th birth anniversary challenges of time during the

New Delhi, November 26 (iANS): India’s first indigenouslydeveloped nuclear-powered nuclear attack submarine, Arihant, has successfully test fired a dummy or unarmed missile, reliable sources said.

The vital first test in ejecting a missile from its onboard silos was conducted on Wednesday, proverbially adding a feather to the cap of the Indian Navy and scientists from DRDO and BARC, the sources said.

The firing was done remotely from a far away location by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), India’s nuclear command authority which is tasked with creating nuclear deterrence. To mention more achievements, the submarine has also successfully completed its critical diving tests, and significantly, met nearly all its design and designated parameters just about 100 percent, including the maximum possible power option tests.

It is actually good news all over, but the final step before the submarine is formally inducted in the Indian Navy as INS Arihant, will be the firing of proper missiles - albeit with unarmed warheads. Details are unavailable but this should happen soon enough as there are indications of the submarine taking part in the International Fleet Review (IFR) being hosted by the navy in February, 2016.

The boat should be operational by then. Notably, only operational ships and submarines can take part in an IFR. The missile fired was a dummy version of DRDO’s B 5, which approximately has a range of 800 km to 1,000 km. Later, missiles with a reach of 3,500 km to 4,000 km are likely to be inducted onboard.

India plans to build some halfa-dozen Arihant class submarines in line with its nuclear doctrine which calls for No First Use but Massive Retaliation if attacked.

Arihant is built with Russian designs, but this will be the country’s first nuclear attack submarine, classified in international naval lingo as SSBN. India has one more nuclearpowered submarine, INS Chakra, leased from Russia, but that cannot fire nuclear missiles. The classification for such boats is SSN. Like any submarine, both Arihant and INS Chakra are pearl shaped to accommodate the vertically launched missiles, and designed to move faster underwater than on the surface. They can stay deep in the darkness of the oceans for months, the only restrictions being the limits on human tolerance and availability of nuclear fuel.

It may be recalled that the project for nuclear submarines was sanctioned soon after the 1974

India under threat from US, Chinese, Russian cybercriminals New Delhi, November 26 (PTi): India is increasingly on the radar of cybercriminals from countries like China, Russia and the US, who are using advanced persistent threat (APT) attacks to steal data from consumers and enterprises, security software firm Kaspersky has said.

APT refers to a format where the attacker gains access to a network/device and stays there undetected for a long period of time.

The motive of the attack is to steal data and there is a longer term damage to the organization/user.

"APT attacks are on the rise globally and those affecting India are also growing. These attacks are originating from China, the US and Russia among other countries. A major chunk of the attacks like Equation, Turla, Darkhotel, Regin, Cloud Atlas infected India as well," Kaspersky Lab deputy director of global research and analysis team, Sergey Novikov told reporters.

He added that while there were three APT announcements

in 2012, the number grew to seven in 2013, 11 in 2014 and 10 in the first half of 2015. "As more and more devices get connected to the internet/network, the level of sophistication of these attacks is also on the rise," he said. Novikov said the line of distinction between state- sponsored cyberattacks and those by criminal gangs is diminishing as similar techniques often get used. "However, it is difficult to establish whether they are working together," he added.

Stuxnet is a example of APT attack. The malicious worm is believed to have been jointly built American-Israeli cyber weapon to sabotage Iran's nuclear programme.

Rainer Bock, head of strategic projects at the company, said one could see more complex attacks going ahead. "Also, the vectors of attacks will evolve. From attacking devices, cybercriminals are now looking at networks and communication channels like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and 3G," he added.

nuclear test by prime minister Indira Gandhi but it suffered when Morarji Desai and V.P. Singh occupied the office in the coming years.

In 1983, Gandhi once again pushed the project with required funds, but it was only in 1998, when India conducted the second round of nuclear tests, that prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee sanctioned the project afresh and a decision was also taken to involve the private sector. Larsen & Toubro, India’s premier engineering construction company, was involved right from then onwards.

L&T, as it is known, has done commendable work in gradually and systematically building a horizontal supply-chain base and meeting the DRDO and naval specifications. DRDO, or Defence Research and Development Organisation, has been in-charge of the India’s missile systems programmes throughout, which it has delivered with distinction. Nuclear propulsion systems have been installed and managed by experts from BARC, or Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. Indications of Arihant’s journey have been coming out for some time, and recently, the Indian Navy chief, Admiral Robin Dhowan, mentioned the possibility of its inclusion in the IFR although he did not understandably commit anything.

Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said on Thursday said India's constitution was the instrument for country's social, economic and political progress and its judicious use will determine the speed and direction of country's progress.

In her remarks during the special sitting of the house to discuss "Commitment to

celebrations of Bhim Rao Ambedkar, considered the chief architect of the constitution, she said that consensus has a lot of importance in democracy.

"For this, the elected representatives have to work together to find solution to problems of people by talking to each other," she said.

Mahajan also noted that

past 65 years.

"The principles and values established by the Constitution are life-breath of our vibrant democracy," she said.

"Our constitution is such an instrument of our social, economic and political progress whose judicious use will determine the speed, condition and direction of coun-

that the constitution was flexible to adapt to needs of time but was unchangeable in its basic nature.

"While giving attention to fundamental rights, the constitution provides for equal rights and opportunities to all citizens," she said, adding individual rights were as important as the interest of the community.

Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik pay tribute to 26/11 victims of Mumbai terrorist attack through his sand sculpture with message United against Terrorism at Cuttack in Odisha. (PTI Photo)

‘Bihar liquor ban should be participatory, not agenda’ New Delhi, November 26 (iANS): Bihar on Thursday joined the states that have banned liquor, with newly elected Chief Minister Nitish Kumar prohibiting sale and consumption of alcohol from April 1, 2016. But experts feel the decision should be "participatory" and not a "political agenda".

Gujarat, Nagaland, Manipur (in some parts), and Union Territory of Lakshadweep have banned liquor while Kerala has since August 2014 been implementing the ban in a phased manner.

In Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who had promised to ban liquor before state assembly elections, made the announcement at an official function to mark Prohibition Day in the state capital.

He said the poorest of the poor had been consuming liquor, badly hitting their families and their children's education.

"Women are suffering

more than anyone else due to increasing liquor consumption," he said.

Ban on liquor in different states of the country has not produced desired results as the decision was not "participatory" in nature and "forced" people to get involved in illegal production and consumption of liquor, experts believe.

Suneel Vatsyayan, chairman of Nada India Foundation, which works for betterment of the alcohol and drug addicted, told IANS: "A ban on alcohol needs public participation and campaigning. It must not just be a one man's decision or a political agenda."

As soon as the ban is imposed on alcohol, the state should be ready with a plan to deal with thousands of consumers who must have got into the habit of consuming liquor on day-to-day basis, and might need medical attention to do away with it, he said.

"Having a blanket ban does

not work often, but doing away with liquor phase wise would help the state machinery to understand the need and reaction of prohibition," Vatsyayan said, adding that the Kerala example could help other states in dealing with the social problem destroying number of poor families.

"Alcoholism has to be looked at through the perspective of women and children affected, not just those using it," Vatsyayan said.

Other experts also believed that alcoholism has a strong relation with distorted behaviour of the affected, who at times under the influence of liquor indulge in domestic violence or even attempt rapes.

Anil Awachat of Muktangan Mitra, a Pune-based NGO working for prevention of alcohol and drug addiction, stressing the impact of drinking on domestic violence, favoured ban on liuquor as "it reduces" the number of drinkers in the society in the face of non-avail-

ability of alcohol.

"With the number of people consuming liquor going down with the ban, the social evils like domestic violence also come down," Awachat said advocating the ban on liquor as well as other intoxicants.

The ban on liquor has been in force in Gujarat since the state came into being in 1960, and even before when Gujarat was a part of the then Bombay state (which was later divided into Gujarat, Maharashtra).

But the biggest ever hooch tragedy occurred in the same state in 1989 when over 257 people were killed in Vadodara. In other similar tragedies between 1971 and 1997, over 354 people died in different parts of the state.

Also in 2009 alone, at least 157 were killed in Ahmedabad, forcing the state to come up with death penalty to those involved in making spurious liquor.

Dealers of hard liquor in

the country echoed similar views that the consumption of spurious liquor could hit a high note due to ban, and said that there is a need to regulate and control the supply rather than ban.

"Though Bihar is not the largest, it is a big consumer of alcohol. With the ban, people would start drinking cheaper homemade alcohol, which could be fatal. The state would lose money in terms of taxes, which would eventually go to neighbouring states, from where liquor would be illegally brought in," said a Delhi-based hard liquor dealer, who supplies liquor to Bihar and did not want to be named.

Ban on liquor has been a demand of many in several parts of the country. During the first week of this month in Rajasthan, former legislator Gurcharan Chhabra (65) died after fasting for a month asking for a ban on the sale of liquor in the state.

FridaY 27•11•2015

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

Russia seeks economic revenge against Turkey over jet IstANbuL/mOsCOW, NOvEmbER 26 (REutERs): Russia threatened economic retaliation against Turkey on Thursday and said it was still awaiting a reasonable explanation for the shooting down of its warplane, but Turkey dismissed the threats as “emotional” and “unfitting”.

In an escalating war of words, President Tayyip Erdogan responded to Russian accusations that Turkey has been buying oil and gas from Islamic State in Syria by accusing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his backers, which include Moscow, of being the real source of the group’s financial and military power.

The shooting down of the jet by the Turkish air force on Tuesday was one of the most serious clashes between a NATO member and Russia, and further complicated international efforts to battle Islamic State militants.

World leaders have urged both sides to avoid escalation.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev on Thursday ordered his government to draw up measures that would include freezing some joint investment projects and restricting food imports from Turkey.

Economy Minister Alexei Ulyukayev said Moscow could put limits on flights to and from Turkey, halt preparations for a joint free trade zone, and restrict high-profile projects in-

Russian response to downed jet “emotional” & “unfitting”: Erdogan

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev chairs a government meeting in Moscow, Russia, November 26. (REUTERS Photo)

cluding the TurkStream gas pipeline and a $20 billion nuclear power plant Russia is building in Turkey.

“We are strategic partners ... ‘Joint projects may be halted, ties could be cut’? Are such approaches fitting for politicians?,” Erdogan said in a speech in Ankara.

“First the politicians and our militaries should sit down and talk about where errors were made and then focus on overcoming those errors on both sides. But instead, if we make emotional statements like this, that wouldn’t be right.”

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia was still awaiting a reasonable answer from Ankara on why it downed the

North, South Korea meet in fresh bid to improve ties after standoff sEOuL, NOvEmbER 26 (REutERs): North and South Korean officials met for talks on Thursday to further ease tensions after they ended an armed standoff in August, their latest attempt to revive dialogue stalled for five years.

The talks at the border truce village of Panmunjom come after the two sides signed an agreement in which Pyongyang expressed regret over landmine blasts near the border that wounded two South Korean soldiers.

The talks are a fresh attempt at dialogue between the rivals, which have all-but cut off ties since 2010, when a South Korean navy ship was destroyed by a torpedo that Seoul said was fired from a North Korean submarine.

Pyongyang denies any role.

The North also bombed a South Korean island later that year, blaming Seoul for provoking it by firing into its territorial waters during a military exercise.

“We will do our best to faithfully carry out the agreements from the last high-level talks,” South Korea’s chief delegate Kim Ki-woong told reporters in Seoul.

As part of the Aug. 25 agreement, the two sides held reunions last month of families separated during the 195053 Korean war. North and South Korea are technically still at war because the conflict ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty.

If dialogue makes progress, the North is expected to seek the resumption of cross-border tours from the South to its Mount Kumgang resort, a once-lucrative source of cash for the impoverished state that was suspended in 2008.

Seoul in turn is expected to try to get Pyongyang to agree to hold family reunions on a regular basis, a top humanitarian priority for the South, where there are more than 60,000 mostly elderly people who are looking for relatives in the North.

Suu Kyi blames lack of safety regulations for deadly landslide YANGON/HPAKANt, NOvEmbER 26 (REutERs): A disregard for the rule of law in the jade mining industry in Myanmar had made accidents such as the landslide that killed more than 100 people at the weekend a common occurrence, Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi said on Thursday.

Authorities called off search efforts late on Wednesday in Hpakant, with as many as 100 people estimated still missing after a huge slag heap of mining debris gave way on Saturday and buried a makeshift settlement of migrant workers as they slept.

“As far as we understand, it was the fifth similar incident this year,” Suu Kyi told Radio Free Asia’s Myanmar language service during an interview broadcast on Thursday.

“This sort of accident is common just because there is no rule of law. It also reflects lack of due consideration for the safety of people’s life and property.”

They were Suu Kyi’s first comments on the disaster in Hpakant, where rescue workers recovered 114 bodies before giving up the search.

Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD), which swept to victory in the Nov. 8 elections, has called for stricter safety measures and increased government oversight of the industry in the wake of the disaster.

Reforming the sector will be difficult. The lucrative jade industry is dominated by companies linked to leaders of the previous military government, ethnic armies and businessmen with close connections to the former junta.

Hpakant is at the heart of the jade mining region and produces some of the world’s highest quality jade, but workers, many migrants from other parts of the country, operate in perilous conditions for little pay.

fighter jet. Moscow insists it never left Syrian air space, but Ankara says it crossed the border despite repeated warnings.

Erdogan said the Russian jet was shot down as an “automatic reaction” to the violation of Turkish air space, in line with standing orders given to the military.

Those instructions were a separate issue to disagreements with Russia over Syria policy, he said, adding Ankara would continue to support moderate rebels in Syria and Turkmen fighters battling President Assad’s forces.

He told CNN that Russia, not Turkey, should be the one to apologise for the incident.

“PROVE YOUR CLAIMS” Medvedev on Wednesday alleged that Turkish officials were benefiting from Islamic State oil sales, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said it was no secret that “terrorists” use Turkish territory.

“Shame on you. It’s clear where Turkey buys its oil and gas ... Those who claim we are buying oil from Daesh like this must prove their claims. Nobody can slander this country,” Erdogan said, using an Arabic acronym for Islamic State.

“If you are seeking the source of weaponry and financial power of Daesh, the first place to look is the Assad regime and countries that act with it,”

ANKARA, NOvEmbER 26 (REutERs): Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday dismissed “emotional” and “unfitting” suggestions that projects with Russia could be cancelled following Turkey’s downing of a Russian warplane near the Syrian border.

In an escalating war of words, he responded to Russian accusations that Turkey has been buying oil and gas from Islamic State in Syria by accusing Syrian President Bashar alAssad and his backers, which include Moscow, of being the real source of the group’s financial and military power.

The downing of the jet on Tuesday was one of the most serious publicly acknowledged clashes between a NATO member and Russia for half a century, and further complicated international efforts to battle Islamic State militants he said.

Moscow says its military involvement in Syria is aimed at battling terrorist groups including Islamic State, casting the campaign to a supportive Russian public as a moral crusade that must be completed despite obstruction from elsewhere.

Turkey and its allies say Russia’s real aim is to prop up its ally Assad and that it has been bombing moderate opposition groups in areas of Syria like Latakia, where the jet was downed, and where there is little or no Islamic State presence.

Russian forces have shown no sign of backing down, launching a heavy bombardment against insurgent-held areas in Lat-

in Syria. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev ordered his government on Thursday to draw up measures that would include freezing some joint investment projects and restricting food imports from Turkey.

“We are strategic partners … ‘Joint projects may be halted, ties could be cut’? Are such approaches fitting for politicians?,” Erdogan said in a speech to local officials in the capital Ankara.

“First the politicians and our militaries should sit down and talk about where errors were made and then focus on overcoming those errors on both sides. But instead, if we make emotional statements like this, that wouldn’t be right.”

Erdogan said the Russian jet was shot down on Tuesday as an “automatic reaction” to the violation of Turkish air space, in line with stand-

akia on Wednesday, near where the jet crashed.

A Reuters correspondent on the Turkish side of the border saw rockets and tank shells being fired from government-controlled western Latakia eastwards into rebel-held territory, sending plumes of smoke rising from the wooded hillsides.

TOURISTS, FOOD AND WHEAT Turkey’s action infuriated Russia, but Moscow’s response has been carefully calibrated. There is little sign it wants a military escalation, or to jeopardise its main objective in the region: to rally international support for its view on how the conflict in Syria should

ing instructions given to the military.

Those instructions were a separate issue to disagreements with Russia over Syria policy, he said, adding Ankara would continue to support moderate rebels in Syria and Turkmen fighters battling President Bashar al-Assad.

Russia insists its jet never left Syrian air space. Medvedev on Wednesday alleged that Turkish officials were benefiting from Islamic State oil sales, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said it was no secret that “terrorists” use Turkish territory.

“Shame on you. It’s clear where Turkey buys its oil and gas ... Those who claim we are buying oil from Daesh like this must prove their claims.

Nobody can slander this country,” Erdogan said, using an Arabic acronym for Islamic State.

be resolved.

But it clearly wants to punish Turkey economically.

The head of Russia’s tourism agency, Rostourism, said cooperation with Turkey would “obviously” be halted. At least two large Russian tour operators had already said they would stop selling packages to Turkey after Russian officials advised holidaymakers against travelling to its resorts.

Russians are second only to Germans in terms of the numbers visiting Turkey, bringing in an estimated $4 billion a year in tourism revenues, which Turkey needs to help fund its gaping current account deficit.

Medvedev meanwhile said Russia may impose restrictions on food imports within days, having already increased checks of Turkish agriculture products, its first public move to curb trade.

Moscow banned most Western food imports in 2014 when Western countries imposed sanctions on Russia over its role in the Ukraine crisis, leading to supply disruptions as retailers had to find new suppliers and galloping inflation.

The row has also put a brake on new wheat deals between Russia, one of the world’s largest wheat exporters, and Turkey, the largest buyer of Russian wheat.

Afghan MSF strike tragic human error: US Chinese court upholds conviction WAsHINGtON, NOvEmbER 26 (REutERs): A U.S. investigation found that the deadly Oct. 3 air strike in Afghanistan that destroyed a hospital run by Medecins Sans Frontieres was a tragic and avoidable accident caused primarily by human error, a top U.S. military commander said on Wednesday.

Some U.S. personnel were suspended and could face disciplinary action after failing to follow U.S. rules of engagement in a war zone, said U.S. Army General John Campbell, who leads international forces in Afghanistan.

It remained unclear whether the U.S. military, even as it expressed remorse and wholly accepted blame, would be able to quickly mend its image in Afghanistan and elsewhere after the attack, which killed 30 people. MSF’s general director Christopher Stokes said in a statement on Wednesday that the investigation illustrated “gross negligence” by U.S. forces.

“This was a tragic mistake. U.S. forces would never intentionally strike a hospital or other protected facilities,” Campbell said at a Pentagon news conference, releasing the results of the U.S. investigation.

MSF, known as Doctors Without Borders in English, has in the past publicly cast doubt on the idea

that the strike could have been a mistake.

Detailing its own investigation on Nov. 5, MSF said the site’s location had been clearly communicated to both Afghan forces and the Taliban.

“The frightening catalogue of errors outlined today illustrates gross negligence on the part of U.S. forces and violations of the rules of war,” Stokes said in his statement.

“MSF reiterates its call for an independent and impartial investigation into the attack on our hospital in Kunduz.”

Campbell acknowledged the hospital was on a no-strike list and that MSF had called during the attack to alert the U.S.-led forces. He described a series of mistakes that allowed the American forces to destroy the hospital, despite the call.

According to the U.S. investigation, U.S. forces had meant to target a different building in the city and were led off-track by a technical error in their aircraft’s mapping system that initially directed them to an empty field.

The U.S. forces then looked for a target that was visually similar to the one they had originally sought - the former National Directorate of Security headquarters in Kunduz, which they believed was occupied

by insurgents.

“Tragically, this misidentification continued throughout the remainder of the operation even though there were contradictory indicators,” Campbell said.

The grid location of the AC-130 aircraft that attacked the hospital eventually identified the correct target building. In addition, there was no hostile enemy activity at the MSF building, Campbell said, but the U.S. attack continued.

“These are examples of human and procedural errors,” he said.

The timeline detailed by the U.S. military indicated that the 29-minute-long strike began at 2:08 a.m. By 2:20 a.m. a caller from MSF reported the attack to Bagram air base. It took U.S. forces until 2:37 a.m. to realize the mistake, by which time the AC-130 gunship had already stopped firing.

“It is shocking that an attack can be carried out when U.S. forces have neither eyes on a target nor access to a no-strike list, and have malfunctioning communications systems,” MSF’s Stokes said.

Campbell said the investigation found that the strike killed 30 staff, patients and assistants and injured 37. He gave his condolences and said the U.S. military would offer to help rebuild the hospital.

against journalist but lowers sentence

bEIJING, NOvEmbER 26 (REutERs): A Chinese court upheld a conviction on Thursday against a journalist accused of leaking an internal Communist Party document to a foreign website but reduced her jail sentence by two years in a case criticised by the West and rights groups.

Gao Yu, 71, was detained in May 2013 over accusations she had leaked a party document that warned senior members against “seven mistaken ideologies”, including the “universal values” of human rights, according to Gao’s lawyer, Shang Baojun.

Rights activists say her case is part of a broad government effort to suppress journalists, lawyers and activists critical of the party.

Gao was sentenced to seven years in jail in April after being convicted on a charge of providing state secrets to foreign contacts.

On Thursday, the Beijing high court reduced her sentence to five years but upheld her conviction. Shang said the court had decided to reduce Gao’s sentence after she “gave a true account of the facts of the crime during the second trial and pleaded guilty”.

Shang said he would continue to seek Gao’s release on medical parole, which authorities have already rejected three times.

“She has very serious high blood pressure and heart problems,” Shang said. “Taking into account the fact that she’s already 71, from this perspective, we are not satisfied (with the sentence reduction).”

Court officials did not respond to phone calls or a faxed query seeking comment. China’s Foreign Ministry said in April that Gao’s case had been handled in accordance with the law.

Dozens of police officers sealed off roads leading to the courthouse earlier on Thursday and stopped journalists from approaching. Germany denounced the court’s decision.

“The rejection of the journalist’s application, who is over seventy years old and suffers from medical problems, is incomprehensible and fills me with dismay,” Germany’s Commissioner for Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid, Christoph Strässer, said in a statement. British-based rights group Amnesty International said Gao’s health had deteriorated since her detention.

Mud from Brazil dam burst is toxic: UN RIO DE JANEIRO, NOvEmbER 26 (REutERs): Mud from a dam that burst at an iron ore mine in Brazil earlier this month, killing 12 people and polluting an important river, is toxic, the United Nations’ human rights agency said on Wednesday.

The statement contradicts claims by Samarco, the mine operator at the site of the rupture, and Samarco’s co-owner, BHP Billiton, that the water and mineral waste contained by the dam are not toxic.

Citing “new evidence,” the UN’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement the residue “contained high levels of toxic heavy metals and other toxic chemicals”.

The agency did not identify the studies that were the basis for the evidence or say who conducted them, and a spokesman in Geneva was not immediately available for comment.

The owners of Samarco, Brazil’s Vale SA and

The Bento Rodrigues district is pictured covered with mud after a dam owned by Vale SA and BHP Billiton Ltd burst in Mariana, Brazil on November 6. (REUTERS Photo)

Australia’s BHP, said they are taking every measure possible to provide emergency assistance to those affected by the dam break and to reduce the social and economic impacts of the disaster.

Samarco said in a statement that both pre- and

post-disaster tests show the mud released in the dam burst, made up mostly of water, iron oxides and silica or quartz, presents no danger to human health and does not contain water contaminants.

BHP reiterated on Thursday the tailings that

entered the Rio Doce were made up of clay and silt from processing earth containing iron ore and were “chemically stable”.

“They will not change chemical composition in water and will behave in the environment like normal soils in the catchment,”

BHP said, meaning that any metals in the sediment were non-reactive and would not leach into water.

BHP declined to comment on the UN’s report as it had not seen it, but said it was trying to contact the UN’s rapporteur to understand his comments.

While iron and manganese levels in the mud are above normal, Samarco said, they are below dangerous levels.

Biologists have been shocked by the impact of the burst dam, which Brazil’s government has called the country’s worst-ever environmental disaster.

The mud has killed thousands of fish as it flows through the Rio Doce, the river which connects the mineral-rich state of Minas Gerais with Espirito Santo on the Atlantic coast.

BHP said the fish were most likely being choked to death by the sheer volume of fine sediment released by the dam burst clogging their gills, rather than the chemical composition of the sludge.

“Based on the evidence available, the concentration of sediment suspended in the water in the Rio Doce, as a result of the tailings being released, was high enough to starve the fish of oxygen,” a BHP spokesman said.

The 60 million cubic meters of mine waste, equivalent to 25,000 Olympic swimming pools, cut off drinking water for a quarter of a million people. The dense orange sediment has now reached the ocean.

The huge volume of sediment in the water is the same factor that has overwhelmed water treatment plants along the Rio Doce and led Samarco to supply 100 million litres of drinking water and mineral water to towns along the river.

The UN statement criticized the response of the companies and the Brazilian government as “insufficient,” saying, “the government and companies should be doing everything within their power to prevent further harm”.

10

FriDAY 27•11•2015

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

blatter says only FiFA Neymar will be best in world next year: ronaldo congress can bar him

ZURICH, NOVEMBER 26 (REUtERS): Suspended FIFA president Sepp Blatter said on Wednesday he believes that only the Congress of football's governing body, and not its Ethics Committee, can bar him from office.

Comparing himself to a state president, Blatter told Swiss broadcaster SRF: "If one wants to revoke an elected president, only parliament can ask for that."

In a tense interview, Blatter declined to comment on whether FIFA's ethics investigators had recommended he be handed a life ban, as they had with European football boss Michel Platini, who had been the favourite to replace him as head of the global football body.

Blatter and Platini, engulfed by a deepening corruption scandal as the sport faces criminal probes in Switzerland and the United States, have both been suspended for 90 days by the FIFA ethics committee while it investigates their conduct.

Platini's lawyer said on Tuesday that ethics investigators had sent a report to the judgement panel recommending he serve a life ban. But Blatter, who has been FIFA president since 1998, would not say whether a similar recommendation had been made for him.

"I cannot confirm what is being done. That is confidential, I'd be a bad person if I told you that," he said.

Blatter, who is standing down in February after agreeing to lay down his mandate, criticised the Ethics

Committee, which he had previously trumpeted as a key weapon in the battle against corruption after it was reformed and strengthened three years ago.

"I'm not a FIFA official, I'm the elected president of the Congress," he said. "If one does not agree with the way I do my job, one has to turn to the congress that elected me," he said.

Asked where it was stated in FIFA statutes that the president is not a FIFA official, Blatter said: "When you look at the definition in the statutes, it says I'm not a FIFA official."

The FIFA presidential election is held every years and the 209 member federations each hold one vote.

"It is humiliating for the FIFA president that the ethics committee comes and says, you are suspended and you are not allowed to go to the office anymore," he said.

"That’s like a police order and that hurts, but it doesn’t kill me. I’ll fight for me and for FIFA." Blatter also faces a criminal investigation in Switzerland over a 2 million Swiss franc ($2 million) payment from FIFA to Platini.

The payment was made in 2011 for work Platini had completed nine years earlier, the Swiss attorney-general's office has said, adding Platini was considered "between a witness and an accused person."

"Contracts can be done in writing or orally," said Blatter, reiterating comments he has made previously on the matter.

SAO PAULO, NOVEMBER 26 (REUtERS): Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the two best players in the world right now but Neymar will eclipse them both next year, former Brazil striker Ronaldo told Reuters. FIFA will release the names of the three finalists for the Ballon d’Or on Monday, with the choice of world's best player to be announced on Jan. 11.

Brazilians have featured heavily in the voting over the last 20 years with Romario, Rivaldo, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Kaka lifting the trophy eight times between 1994 and 2007.

However, the Spain-based duo have had a stranglehold on the award since 2008, with Portugal's Ronaldo winning it three times (2008, 2013 and 2014) and Messi winning four awards (2009-2012).

"I would bet on Neymar next year," Brazil's Ronaldo told Reuters.

"I think Neymar is still growing a lot and I think the growth of Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi has reached its limit. "Maybe they will be there an-

NFA informs

other year or two and I think it's natural that Neymar takes over that position in which Brazil has always had representatives."

Ronaldo said he had hoped his countryman would break the duopoly this year but was not confident the Barcelona forward would even be in the running given the stiff competition. "I really want Neymar to win and interrupt the series of Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi," the former Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Barcelona striker said.

"I think this year it will be between the two of them again. I don't know if Neymar will finish in third."

Barcelona's Luis Suarez, Paris St. Germain's Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski are among the other possible contenders for the trophy.

KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 26 (MExN): All the selected players in the Stage-I for FIFA U-17 for FIFA- 2017 are directed to report on December 1 (Tuesday) at 9 am at Khuochozie, Kohima Local Ground, to the National selector positively for Stage-II trial. Roko Angami (AFC ‘B’), Kevilhoubei and Ruopfii Meyase (AFC-‘c’) will assist the selector. This was informed in a press note from the NFA.

Classic Club informs

DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 26 (MExN): Players selected as most promising in the recently concluded Classic Cup 2015 have been directed to report immediately to Khrietuo Belho, Secretary, Classic Club at +919436005853. A press note from the Classic Club informed that the players are Dziesedilhou Yhome (LYO XI), Nampibou Rentta (Naga FC) and Kevikielie Pienyü (NYO). The team will leave for Guwahati on December 1 to witness the Indian Super League (ISL) present government welcomes the between NE United and FC Pune on peace accord signed between the Gov- December 2, 2015. ernment of India and the NSCN (IM), which I expect that a positive change will arrive for the people.” Kiyanilie also gave away the prizes to the winners.

The closing function was chaired

by Gonei-u Sirie, president, NPF, Ko- DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 26 hima Division, while the invocation (MExN): The organizer of the Yoddha was pronounced by Medochünuo, Fighting Championship has informed vice president women wing.

The welcome address was deliv- that the said championship which ered by Aselie Punyü, general secre- was scheduled to be held at Mokoktary, Western Angami A/C, special chung town on November 27 and 28 number by Junuo and friends, while at the Multipurpose Sports complex, the vote of thanks was tendered by has been postponed to November 1 to Kesoneilie Theünuo, working presi- December 1 due to unavoidable cirdent, NPF Kohima Division. cumstance.

NpF Kohima div sports meet held

KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 26 (MExN): The Naga People’s Front (NPF) Kohima Division held its annual sports meet-cum- picnic on November 25 at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma.

The programme was graced by Kiyanilie Peseyie, Minister of Social Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs as the chief guest.

In men’s penalty shoot-out tournament, the 14th Southern Angami Assembly Constituency emerged as the champions, while the 9th Kohima Town A/C bagged the second position.

In women’s penalty shoot-out, the 9th Kohima Town A/C lifted the title, while the Kohima Division women

office bearers were the runners-up.

On the day, an exhibition football match was also played between the Kohima Division against the combined team of all assembly constituencies, wherein the former emerged victorious by 3-1.

Earlier, the chief guest Kiyanilie called upon the party workers to stand firm and committed towards the party.

With the present government standing as an opposition-less government, Peseyie praised the party leadership stating that “Nagaland has set a record with all the legislators working together with opposition.”

On peace accord, Peseyie said, “the

Yoddha Fighting C'ship postponed

public discourse

When Blank Spaces Speak The joy of travelling becoming a luxury in Nagaland

O

n 26 June 1975, a couple of English language daily newspapers ran blank spaces instead of editorials.

They were protesting press censorship imposed by Indira Gandhi’s government when it proclaimed a state of internal emergency. In India’s North East, there has been a virtual state of emergency for decades. But for the first time, the local press in Nagaland decided things had gone too far. Three daily newspapers, Morung Express, Eastern Mirror and Nagaland Page, substituted their editorials with a blank space to mark 16 November, National Press Day. This was their dramatic rejoinder to attempts to curb the very freedom that day is supposed to denote. The blank spaces also spoke to the challenges that face the media in conflict areas, particularly if they decide that freedom of the press also means they are free to give expression to conflicting points of view. They also reminded us of the invisibility of the struggles of these journalists, who walk a tight rope between militant groups on the one side and the army and government on the other.

The provocation for the protest was a 25 October notice sent by the Assam Rifles to five media houses. It noted that these dailies had carried the press release of the banned National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang) (NSCN (K)) threatening “senior lawmakers” of the Nagaland government and encouraging collection of funds. In the view of the Assam Rifles, this could be interpreted as abetting and aiding a banned group under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967 (UAPA).

In response, in a joint statement issued on 15 November, the editors of the five media houses asked, “Is this an attempt to censor, weaken and ultimately silence the role of the media in Nagaland?” On 19 October, the Press Council of India (PCI) issued a suo motu notice asking the Assam Rifles the reasons behind the move. It also sought the Nagaland Chief Secretary’s report in the matter.

What needs to be questioned though, as the media houses in Nagaland have rightly done, is whether the Assam Rifles, that is present in the state on behalf of the Ministry of Home Affairs, has the right to tell the local media what it can and cannot report or take it upon itself to suggest to the state government that it move against these media houses for publishing the purported “objectionable” news items. Does the law give it these rights, or is the interpretation of provisions of UAPA, as also the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), such that military and paramilitary forces can make this type of intervention? If the latter is the case, does it not set a dangerous precedent for media operating in any conflict zone in India?

The media, especially the print media in much of the North East, faces a tenuous existence. Newspapers are grossly underfunded, their staff is poorly paid by any standards, they face huge infrastructural problems with erratic electric supply, intermittent internet connectivity and a constant threat of closure when supplies cannot reach them whenever there is any kind of trouble. Manipur is the most vulnerable in this respect as a blockage on one highway can bring the state to a virtual standstill. On top of this, newspapers have to figure out how to survive direct threats and pressures—from the security forces, from the state government, and from militant groups. That they are able to publish at all is itself a miracle. If they publish certain news, such as on the NSCN (K) for instance, they face charges under laws like the UAPA for aiding banned groups. On the other hand, if they refuse to publish the handouts of militant groups, they face violent threats that cannot be brushed aside lightly.

What is worse is that the rest of India remains uncaring and ignorant about the challenges facing the media in the North East as is evident from the minimal reaction in mainstream media to this protest from Nagaland’s media houses. By asserting their right to give all sides a voice in a long-standing conflict situation, these editors have reminded the rest of the media in India how it ought to conduct itself. It is worth heeding their words: As proponents of the free press supporting our commitment to the right to freedom of speech and expression, peace, democracy and economic empowerment, we shall: remain impartial and non-partisan while exercising our editorial independence that is free from all influences by State, Non-State and Corporate entities; continue to create and provide responsible and healthy spaces and opportunities that are open to diverse viewpoints in a sincere and sensitive manner without infringing on the news quality or the potential for constructive engagement; continue to uphold and safeguard values and practices of non-violence, democracy, liberty, inclusivity and peace; continue to practice universally acceptable standards and ethics of journalism, in particular peace journalism, while upholding the right to freedom of speech and expression.

Economic & Political Weekly

R

oads play a very important in every society . if we look at the civilisation around the world wherever there is road there is connectivity which in turns led to development and progress . Good roads not only helped to accelerate economic development it also bring smile to people's faces .There is always a feeling of happiness and peace though having to endure a long journey if we travel in good road .

But today a joyful travelling is becoming a luxury for the travellers in Nagaland.

Travelling is becoming a torture for our body and vehicle and a time to curse the ministers , contractor's, engineers.

If we look abroad engineers take pride in their road. For them its a challenge to built good roads, an occasion to test their skill and quality , therefore they make sure that it last for years enduring all weather conditions . But in India and especially in the case of Nagaland may be there is pride and competition among the engineers and con-

tracters to see whose roads deteriorate quickly or may be who can construct road with least amount of money . Its really a disappointment whoever is in-charge of constructions and maintenance of roads in Nagaland , which cannot make and maintain a roads that can last for years minus the natural calamities . The lame excuse being lack of proper drainage system or soil problem or the usual blame game between the central and state authority before a general or state assembly election. But they will never blame themselves for making a low quality roads. In this age of globalisation and advacement in technology and materials and resources available the drainage and soil is reali an old lame excuse . It's also becoming a habit to give a make up to our roads before hornbill festival or when high dignitaries come to visit Nagaland. There was full swing of repairing of road in chumukedima because President was supposed to visit the NIT chumukedima but unfor-

tunately for the resident of chumukedima the President canceled his visit due to unavoidable circumstances as a result the roads is not being repaired till now . This is how the concerned authority successfully keep on playing this old trick to fool the foreigner and high dignitaries whenever they plan to visit Nagaland to show that there is development and progress in every corner of Nagaland and to hide rampant misuse of funds .

Though Nagaland is called the Switzerland of East , most people in Nagaland hardly travel around to enjoy their beautiful surroundings . In Nagaland there is lots of places where we can travel around to escape the extreme summer or winter or just to enjoy travelling with family , friend's and to enjoy the diversity of our state but who will get excited thinking of the road condition in Nagaland .Who will want to put their vehicle, body and life at risk to travel through some of the bumby, pothole , dangerous road of Nagaland.

In Nagaland we do not drive on road we search for road to drive on .

There is lots of talk about four lane roads in Nagaland lots of enthusiasm to have four lane but wonder what great change it will brings to us because the concerned authority are finding it difficult even to maintain two lane road just wondering how they will be able to maintain the four lane road properly in future . As the elected Government have rightly put up that they cannot provide government job to all the youths of Nagaland but what they can provide is , a durable normal pothole free roads for all the people to enjoy under the various central and state scheme. Construct and Maintain good roads people will find a way to earn their livelihood . it is sad that after more than 50 years of statehood pothole roads is becoming a norm and travelling in a pothole free roads is fast becoming a luxury in Nagaland.

Moameren Pongen Asst prof, Chumukedima

For cHrisT How to Settle the Naga Issue NAGAliM COUNCIL OF NAGALIM CHURCHES

T

he Naga issue is unique issue as it being the only one of its kind. History revealed that the issue emanates from the failure of the GOI to fulfill its commitments of the 9th Points Agreement.

This agreement was entered into between the emissaries of the GOI with the Naga National Council in 1947 during the most peaceful period in our history. However, due to the failure of the GOI to fulfill the same for more than 4 years compels the NNC to declare unilateral plebiscite in 1951. The GOI took it as an affront to its pride and sent its armed forces to Naga Hills to crush the Nagas into submission. Thus, began the untold stories of horrific atrocities inflicted on the innocent Nagas by the Indian Armed Forces in the undeclared war lasting over half a century till the signing of the ceasefire in 1997.

Of late there has been talk of shared-Sovereignty, Pan Naga without integration etc. in the framework of the Peace Accord but no mention is made of the Naga historical territories which was the obvious reason for which the then NNC signed the famous 9 Points Agreement in 1947. It was the failure of the GOI to fulfill its promises which resurrected the Naga Political issue. These facts appear to have been avoided by the GOI with talk of shared- sovereignty, Pan Naga without integration etc.

Our forefathers, though not literate were fully aware of the fact that the historical Naga territories illegally transferred out of then Naga Hills District by the Britishers contains the richest natural and mineral deposits in the form of oil, coal reserves, forest products etc. If these were actually retransferred to the Nagas Hills District as promised in the 9 Points Agreement, Nagaland today would be the richest state in the Country and for fund we need not have to beg from Delhi. In truth, it was on this prospect that our forefathers agreed to join Indian Union in 1947. Perhaps, this could also be the undisclosed reason why the GOI is dragging its foot inspite of its promise.

In view, of the above, it the GOI is genuinely desirous to have lasting settlement with the Nagas it should preferably admit its obligations under the 9 Points Agreement before starting negotiation on other matters. As for the Nagas, it is the knowledge fact that we are already physically with India from the day the

9th Points Agreement was signed.

And for which, after 69th Years of agreement, today if the GOI says that there will be no Sovereignty, Integration and 9th Points Agreement it will be a blunder and how can amicable or honourable settlement be achieved between the Nagas and GOI? And if such things really happened, how the Nagas of Nagaland will allowed the PAN Naga Hoho Federation to rule within the present State of Nagaland?

It is also highly questionable that if the door of amicable settlement is opened through Peace Accord signed on 3rd August 2015, than why the Ato Kilonser of NSCN (IM) is living in New Delhi instead of staying in Nagaland thereby inviting all the others NPGs to share the issue with the Nagas?

In this connection, I do not see that the interlocutor for Naga Peace talk R.N Ravi is fulfilling his assurances before the leaders of Naga Village Chiefs and others that the settlement will be inclusive and will not negotiate only with the NSCN (IM). And as such, I strongly cautioned him that he should not play with the Nagas as a child anymore.

And if the final political settlement does not arrived through grassroot level authorities within Nagaland, then how the Nagas of Nagaland will accept the so-called amicable or honourable and acceptable to all? To speak the truth of Naga political issue, the Nagas of Nagaland have completely gave their life’s and sacrificed their everything unto the hand of GOI for the Naga Common Goal and not by the Nagas of Manipur or Nagas of Arunachal or Nagas of Assam. And as such, if the Naga political settlement is to take place without the Nagas of Nagaland, there is no way for amicable or honourable settlement as proclaim.

Further, it is to enlighten respected R.N Ravi, the interlocutor for the Naga peace talk that he must know that the Naga political final issue cannot be settled with the so-called NGOs in the like of Naga Hoho or NMA or NSF who never witnessed any Naga political sacrifices nor have the whole Naga mandated.

Moreover, those NGOS have no authority to stand on behalf of the Nagas in any political final settlement. Please do not mislead the Nagas anymore.

T.L Angami, Founder & Advisor Nagaland GB Federation (NGBF)

REPENT AND REFORM OR PERISH

U

nbound thanks would I, on behalf of CNC, like to express to all those who have joined in Wednesday’s fasting and prayer service for Naga Nation and theWinter Session of Indian parliament. It’s time to step up fervent prayers for India and Nagalim.

Along with this heartfelt gratitude, I would like to deliver a few words from the Lord to all Naga National Workers, particularly of the NSCN. Let’s heed to His admonishing words Repent and be reformed or perish.

We have been given the privilege to build Nagalim Christendom. We have been called and chosen to be the builders and establishers not demolishers and destroyers of God’s kingdom here on earth. We can make our country a livable place not hell. No business is more serious than engaging oneself in God’s Mission. We are here to accomplish our divine duty.We cannot fail. If you take it a mean thing, then ask – who’s gonna make our land a Christian Country NAGALIM FOR CHRIST? Will the Americans, Burmese, Chinese, Danish, English, . . .Japanese etc., come to build it for us while we are in revelries and orgies? No, not even angels will come! Not even many Nagas will be for it! God has entrusted it to you and me. Seizing it to be the finest opportune time, let’s play the man of the time. And to do so, let us repent and be reformed or else perish forever. Thus,for Christ’s sake, we can be the reformers, builders, and establishers of Nagalim for Christ and not the prodigals, demolishers and destroyers of our people and country.

I want to bring in a Naga saying and Jesus’ word here. Like entrusting a fox to care a chicken. How far can a fox be trusted? You know God is not that foolish. He will not entrust His sacred cause to a fraud. Not even a fool will also trust a cheat. How true is this word - "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces (Matt 7:6 NIV). Some people have become dangerous social elements who turn to tear and destroy its benefactor. Jesus’ word is real. Nagalim and NSCN is almost destroyed by such elements who are in sheep’s skin in the fold. Don’t blame Satan. Don’t blame outsiders. Don’t blame God. We are to blame ourselves. While God is trusting us let us be sincere in our mission. The whole people are looking on us expectantly. We cannot be another Judas Iscariot, a son of the devil right from the beginning. We are not the frauds who always go for personal gains. You know many might have gone after money saying money means almost everything. Let them go if they think so. With money, they might be occupying prominent seats in the public squares. They might be honored as church loving people just because they use to giving big amount. Their children might be going to highly standard schools and colleges and doing lucrative businesses. Let them be. But remember it is only for a while. They will come to know what comes after eating the forbidden fruit.

Now, to all God loving people, may weonce again fervently implore you to kindly continue to pray for the Indian Parliament’s Winter Session and all the MPs. Continue to pray for Chairman IsakChishiSwu who has been taken to Hospital again. Pray for the General Secretary, Th. Muivah who is single handedly carrying the workload of the Government. Pray that there is peace in our land and the rest of the world. Pray for peace in Holy Land (Jerusalem). Every Pastor of Church who comes across this information may take up this prayer items on coming Sunday Worship Service.

God bless you.

Rev. SeksimKasar, General Secretary. CNC

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

friday 27•11•2015

Music Awards

Stepping Stones, Dimapur celebrating five years of preschool

of NagalaNd oN december 3

T

he awards ceremony of the 7th edition of the Music Awards of Nagaland will be held on December 3 at Kisama as part of the Hornbill Festival this year. 31 nominations in various genres such as gospel, rock, pop, fusion, hiphop and instrumental are in the fray across diverse categories of music and music production.

The brief profiles of the nominees are as under: Choseo & Vela feat. D.A. Chasie A pair of young, talented music enthusiasts who are students of Musicians Studio, Kohima and classically trained in vocals under the examination Board of Trinity Guildhall. They are both members of the band Zephyr. Nominated for their song “Della Speranza”

C M Y K

is Raj Gurung (Vocals), Ezra Sunar (Drums), Suresh Bardewa (Bass), Cornelios Gurung (Rhythm Guitar) and Robert Aley (Lead Guitar).

Virie feat. Polar lights Virie made ripples in the music circuit when her cover of Lorde’s hit single, ‘Yellow Flicker Beat’ went viral, and she hasn’t looked back ever since! She marks her entry into the indie music scene with the release of her debut single, ‘Silver Lining Skies’ written by Mar Jamir of Polar lights.

Gold Planet In the mid-spring of 2015, five guys from different bands with diverse musical backgrounds came together to form Gold Planet - a vintage, modernized pop-rock band.

These talented boys believe that music can be brought up in different styles and can be rare to other music genres when you have the determination to think different. They have two nominations for “A lil too flirty” and “The bunny love”.

Sanepong Tzudir This 21 year old aspiring musician and songwriter from Tuli started off as frontman of Dimapur based Christian band Crystal Mirror. Currently studying at Discipleship Bible College, Dimapur, where he is also a member of the college choir. “Agape Love” is his second single released in mid August this year.

Wangyat Wangsu For 18-year-old Wangyat Wangsu, an upcoming Veswuduyi Venyo Indie pop artiste from Tizit, music has always been the Veswuduyi started singing at the age of 11 and by ultimate passion. In pursuit of his dream, he entered the age of 16 was composing his own lyrics. A Naga idol contestant in 2010, he has performed in the USA, Sin- in and reached the finals of Naga Orpheus Hunt 2014 gapore and Shillong to name a few. He released debut which brought him to the limelight. The song ‘Just you Gospel Music Video Album “All I Have is yours” in the and me’ is a romantic Indie Pop number written and year 2012 and this time his song “Keep on walking” has composed by artist/musician Moba Inggang . been nominated.

The Last Glance 4X Formed in June 2015, this Kohima based boyband Buhiu B. Lam A song writer, composer and a performer, he is also consists of teenagers Ben Auden, Justin Yiese, Sam the first artist from Thang (Noklak) to record and offi- Erom and Kim Seyie. Since their childhood days they cially release English song. A past nominee of the Mu- started writing songs and quotes and draw inspiration sic Awards of Nagaland, he is also published author from bands like One Direction, The Vamps etc. Their and a poet. The song “Walk on” is the extension of his debut single “Drama Queen is about teenagers’ way of thinking and revealing their feeling towards their love. original poem “Daddy’s Maxim”.

Zuchobeni Tungoe Mengu Suokhrie Zuchobeni has singing ever since she was just six This singer, songwriter, recording artist, performyears old and even though she has never been tutored ing vocal teacher and actress has performed all over the country and abroad. A versatile artist who is at nor had any formal vocal classes, this hasn’t stopped ease with diverse genres, she has opened for interna- her from pursuing childhood pop star fancies.

The biggest highlight of her career was Zuchobeni tional bands such as Inflame, Stryper among others.

The song ‘Love is all we need’ is a dream of a peaceful winning the Kids for Fame singing contest. “Scar” is world and realizing that the need for love is more today her debut single. than ever.

Pocket Toons Pocket Toons is an Independent Pop Rock Band Neonlight from Chumukedima consisting of frontman Alem Formed in mid 2015, Neonlight is a DimapurJamir, Lanuyanger on guitar/vocal, Imnasunep also on based Gospel band consisting of Beeba Mutum (Vox/ keys), Moasunep (guitars), Peter (Bass) and Ben- guitars and Takusunep on drums.Their debut single, jong (Drums). They are all from the same church and “You” was released in April, 2015, followed by a music through their songs; they want to proclaim how won- video of the same a few months later. derful and caring God is. “Voice” is their debut single. Zaza The musical journey for this 21 year old singer Boukhusenyen (Chang) and songwriter, from Kohima, started when her dad, A 6-member Gospel band, all born-again Christian fathers aged between 45-60 years. They got together in a singer and an artist himself, and who has been her 2009 with a vision to reach out to the people, especially greatest musical influence first taught her to play the in rural areas, through songs in their local Chang dia- guitar. Currently pursuing musical courses in Eleclect. The song “Sanou Ong Yangbou” has been nomi- tronic Music Production(EMP) and DJing in Bangalore, she has also worked with many prominent artists. nated.

They have two albums to their credit and comprise “Little taste” is her debut indie-pop track. of R. Moa on Soprano, C. Hopong on tenor. C. Ben- Rongsen Longchari dang & I. Rongba on Alto and M. Yendin & Kekosang Rongsen Longchari ‘s song ‘Prayer’ won the Song on Bass. of the year award in 2012. This encouraged him to take up music seriously and presently he is pursuing furSunep Lemtur & Chuba Longkumer Sunep Lemtur is a singer, songwriter, compos- ther music studies at Bangalore. ‘Out of control’ is his er and national award holder. Chuba Longkumer is latest single released recently. a singer, songwriter and a composer. The song “Nai VItz feat. Rugks arutsü” has been nominated.

Playing Drums and various instruments from a young age, Vitz Zhimo has been associated with some Mendinaro & Sunep Lemtur Mendinaro is a singer, vocal tutor and recording of the state’s most renowned acts. He makes his debut artiste. Their duet “Tesangwa ka yalok” is nominated as a solo producer with ‘Electric Sky’ featuring Rugks Ngouri, which makes him the first electronic producer in Fusion category. from the Northeast to release a "Future Bass" track! Upcoming artist from Kohima, Rhokuosie "Rugks" Ngouri U-turn U-Turn, is a Christian experimental funk jazz band. made quite a buzz with his song "Lollibomb which has During a worship practice session, Wati Imsong, the won him and a following especially from underground first Naga to release a guitar licks video DVD on Jazz rappers in the United States messaging young Rugs for Fusion, shared his desire in forming a band. This gave collaborative projects. birth to U-turn with Noksang Jamir(former Bassist of Alo Wanth) on Bass, Impang Kichu on Drums and Mulong Ajemer Mulong Ajemer is a band formed in January, 2003.

Mapulemba Jamir on vocal duties. “All I ever need” is The band’s focus is to advocate to youngsters to comnominated in Gospel (Group) category. pose songs based on our traditional songs and customs so as to preserve and propagate our rich culture, Red Alert An alternative rock band from Dimapur with Azeu traditions and heritage. Their song “Nüknürar Li” has Kent on vocals, Benry Ngullie on lead guitar, Tiasunep been nominated in Fusion category.

The band members are Chuba Aier, Temsu Kichu, Longchar on the drums and Imkongwapang Longchar Nengsang Kichu, Imti Longchari and Atsung Imchen. on bass.

Their song “Dream From Inside” bagged them the ‘Song of the Year’ in 2014 and they have been nomi- Teputo John Richa During his medical studies at Shaikh Medical Colnated again for “Undiluted love” this year. lege, Belgaum, he was the frontman and lead guitarist for Karnataka rock band ‘Creative Scenario’. Served as Senti Longchar “Desert King” This multi-talented dude is an officer in the Horti- the Event Head for various events organized by Freeculture Department. He is a free thinker, poet, photog- dom Rock (2014 – 15) viz. FR with rescue India, FR rapher, philanthropist, event organizer, lyricist, singer guitars with souls, FR acoustic and FR Nov Cosplay. and a cheerful entertainer all rolled into one. He tops Has also been the music director for Golden frames the list of nominations this year with four of his songs entertainment from 2012 – 15 and has made some “Headhunters”, “King Chilli”, “Everyday is a Valentine’s short movies. Nominated in Instrumental category day” and “Potato” being nominated in various catego- for “Broken Dreams” ries of the awards.

Toshimoa Jamir This virtuoso guitarist from Dimapur holds a Cadence This rock powerhouse was formed in October 2010 Grade-8 from Rock School. He has won the ‘Best by a bunch of young, alive and vibrant musicians from Guitarist’ title at various events and was also a finalKohima who have since earned themselves a reputa- ist of Furtados Ultimate Guitarist 2013 and Guitar tion as one of the hottest bands in the Christian Metal Maestro Contest 2014. He has performed with many Scene. They have won the Rock(Heavy/Metal) cat- renowned Indian classical musicians and also been egory of the Music Awards of Nagaland for two con- interviewed live on Radio One, and was a guitar tusecutive years (2012 & 2013) and also the online Qyuki tor at Bangalore for two years. His latest song ‘Just A Contest among others. They have been nominated for Smile’ is from his solo album ‘Passion Play’ due for release soon. a 3rd time for “Revelation” The Chronicles Band The Chronicles Band, a Gorkha Rock Band from Dimapur was formed in 2009 by a bunch of passionate musicians to encourage the youths to live a committed life for the Lord. They have released three music videos till date “Chaheko”, “ Yuva” and “Mero Nepal”(nominated in Rock category). The line-up

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tepping Stones, a preschool based in Dimapur celebrated its fifth year with an Annual Carnival, held on November 25 in its school premises. Raffle draw, a variety of games, lucky dip, face painting, and fast food were some of the main features of the Carnival. Parents of students participated in the Carnival by running food stalls and putting up game stalls. The Carnival also provided a time of reunion as some of the alumni students joined in the event with their parents. It may be mentioned that Stepping Stones preschool was established in 2010 and the third batch of UKG will be graduating in December 2015.

Tubescreeeamer Tubescreeeamer is an independent artist from Mokokchung who writes and records progressive / metal/ ambient rock instrumental tracks. His achievements include Blues guitar virtuoso solo contest Rock Reign, Mokokchung, Nagaland 2012. Nominated in Instrumental category for “Ice 7”

lady gaga turns HORNBILL FESTIVAL COUNTDOWN editor for magazine Art & Culture

The State’s Art & Culture department is presenting daily cultural performance at the main venue- The Naga Heritage Village, Kisama.

The department stated that the cultural troupes from all tribes will be arriving to showcase traditional attires, lively songs and dances.

The artist’s corner at the World War II Museum premises will have display and sale of arts work, demonstrative arts and live sketching, painting exhibitions, art competitions, slide and talk Show etc.

The archives’ stall will showcase a rare collection of original documents from public records, private record, rare historical and geographical maps, newspaper clippings, rare photos and books and sale of departmental publication etc. with reading facilities for interested students, scholars and researchers.

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merican Horror Story: Hotel’ star Lady Gaga has been given the honour of being the cover girl and guest editor for V Magazine’s January issue. The fashionista, 29, enlisted the help of some of her closest couture confidants for the special issue, including Nick Knight, Steven Klein and Inez and Vinoodh, reported People magazine. “This issue of V is about all of these people coming together to express a passion for art and fashion, to really ‘go there’ to make a great statement and to change things,” Gaga said. “I feel like we all share an appetite for living a life of passion and creativity… It’s like we all found our immortality through art and fashion… We share that deep spiritual place.

These are people who have kept and protected me over the years, because they wanted me to survive… That’s part of the message of Plus more… this issue: we have to carry each other through Pork eating and Naga Chilly eating competition is a real treat to the decades and take care of one another and see. And of course the 9th International Hornbill Naga Wrestling honour each other’s work.”

Championship which will be held that the Amphitheatre, Kisama.

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THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Mumbai plays out 1-1 Juve beat Man City to advance into last 16 Ronaldo stars draw with Chennai as Real repel

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MUMBAI, NOVEMBER 26 (IANS): hope of qualifying for the knockouts.

French football great Nicolas Anekla, Placed right at the bottom half of the points table in the Indian Super League (ISL), who is the coach-cum-marquee-player both Mumbai City FC and Kerala Blasters for Mumbai this season, has failed to make FC have no other option but to win all the an impact. Both his coaching and perforremaining matches, starting with the one mance on the field have been below par.

India skipper Sunil Chhetri, who was at the DY Patil Stadium here on Thursday, the tournament's leading scorer with six to ensure a place in the play-offs.

With three losses from last five games, goals, failed to make an impact in the last few matches and will be hosts Mumbai are sevraring to deliver on Thursenth with 12 points from 11 ISL Standings day. games, having won three, The return of key wingdrawn three and lost five.

Atletico De Kolkata er Sony Norde will be a big Whereas, visitors Kerala FC Goa plus for the side considerare at the bottom in eighth Delhi Dynamos ing the inspiring form he place with 11 points from 11 North East United was in the current season. games, losing six, winning Chennaiyn FC The former Mohun Bagan three and drawing two.

FC Pune City player was away on nationThe two sides earlier Mumbai City FC al duty for Haiti. met in the first leg encounKerala Blasters FC Anelka will have to get ter on October 10 with the his demoralised boys inmatch ending in a goalless draw. Both sides come into Thursday's spired as it's high time the team gets back match following losses in the respective to winning ways. Oh the other hand, deprevious matches. Mumbai went down spite being last year's finalist, Kerala lacked 0-2 to NorthEast United FC while Blasters the spark this time around. The absence of a genuine goal-scorer must be surely hurtlost 1-4 to Chennaiyin FC. The upcoming tie will be more than ing batting legend Sachin Tendulkar cocrucial for both the sides, keeping in mind owned side. Blasters coach Trevor Morgan a win might keep them in hunt for semifi- must ensure his boys get back to rhythm nals and a loss will more or less end their and for the important away game.

India in commanding position against Proteas on Day Two

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NAgpUR, NOVEMBER 26 (IANS): India rode on superb bowling performances by the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja to put themselves in a commanding position on the second day of the third Test against South Africa at the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) Stadium here on Thursday.

South Africa ended Day Two at 32/2 in their second innings, requiring 278 more runs to win.

Opener Dean Elgar (10) and skipper Hashim Amla (2) were at the crease at stumps with the visitors chasing a target of 310 runs to level the four-match Test

series.

India had earlier extinguished South Africa's first innings for a record low total of 79 runs before being bowled out for 173 in the second innings.

Ashwin and Jadeja wreaked havoc on a pitch which was a spinner's paradise with prodigious turn and variable bounce.

Ashwin claimed figures of 5/32 in the first innings while Jadeja had 4/33 as the Proteas slumped to their lowest total since being re-admitted to international cricket in 1991/92 following the abolition of apartheid.

This is the lowest total by any team against India

in the longest format of the game. The previous lowest total by South Africa against India was 84 in Johannesburg in 2006. This is also the third lowest Test total by any team in India.

Before this, Sri Lanka held the record for the lowest total against India. They were bowled out for 82 in Chandigarh in 1990. Former left-arm spinner Venkatpathy Raju had taken six wickets in that match.

In the morning session, the South Africans struggled to come to grips with the surface. J.P. Duminy was the only South African batsman who managed to put up some resistance to the Indian spinners.

TURIN, NOVEMBER 26 (REUTERS): Mario Mandzukic shrugged off his poor recent form to score the goal that sent last year's runners-up Juventus into the Champions League round of 16 with a 1-0 win over Manchester City on Wednesday.

The Croatia forward struck in the 18th minute, just after Fernandinho had missed a golden opportunity for the visitors who had already made sure of their place in the knockout stage.

In a match which only sporadically burst into life, Stefano Sturaro hit the post for Juventus and Raheem Sterling squandered another excellent chance for City 10 minutes from time.

Juventus completed a double over the English Premier League side, who had already qualified from Group D after winning their previous three games.

The Serie A champions, still unbeaten after five games, now top the group with 11 points and visit Sevilla in their final match.

Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri, who has frustrated supporters by frequently leaving out forward Paulo Dybala, picked the Argentine alongside Mandzukic in attack, although fans would have rather seen him partner Alvaro Morata.

"I made the decision to field Mandzukic a couple of days ago, we needed a player with his characteristics," Allegri said in a touchline television interview. "This is the most difficult group in the Champions and the lads have done well."

Mandzukic answered his critics in the 18th minute when Alex Sandro sent over a cross from the left and the Croatia forward held off Nicolas Otamendi's challenge to volley the ball in from close range.

The goal came just af-

Shakhtar

Juventus' Mario Mandzukic scores the first goal for Juventus against Manchester City. (Reuters)

ManU draws, CL hopes in balance

MANCHESTER, NOVEMBER 26 (REUTERS): Manchester United endured a frustrating night when they were held to a goalless draw by PSV Eindhoven at Old Trafford on Wednesday, squandering the opportunity to seal their place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

United would have qualified with a win, but their hopes are now in the balance with the top three teams in Group B separated by only two points with one match to play.

United, who have eight points, have to visit leaders VfL Wolfsburg, who have nine, on Dec. 8 when only a win might be good enough. PSV, who are third on seven points, will qualify if they beat bottom-placed CSKA Moscow at home in their final game.

United's Dutch manager Louis van Gaal admitted his team could have wrapped it up against the champions of the Netherlands in the first half when they ter Fernandinho had fired over from close range when he had the whole Juventus goal to aim at.

With Paul Pogba in inspired form in midfield for Juventus, Mandzukic then forced a good save from Joe Hart who also blocked an effort from Stephan Lichtsteiner after the Swiss had burst down the right.

dominated, but also felt his team ran out of ideas after the break. "I think we could have finished it in the first half because in the second half we were not as good any more," he told BT Sport.

"We were afraid to play the ball but nevertheless we didn't give too many chances away. "It is a very difficult task (now) because I think Wolfsburg is the best team in our group but it is possible. United captain Wayne Rooney believed United were not ruthless enough. "It was a game we were capable of winning. I thought we were unlucky not to go into the break 1-0 up," he said. "In the second half we showed a lack of composure but we are not ruthless enough.

We need to score more goals and start turning these sort of games into victories." It was United's fourth goalless draw in their last seven matches and their lack of firepower could well cost them dear this season.

Morata came on for Mandzukic in the 54th minute and almost immediately set up a second.

The Spaniard burst clear and lifted his effort over Joe Hart but wide of the goal and Sturaro hit the post from point-blank range as he tried to prod it in. Hart made another good save to deny Dybala after

he got free, then Sterling failed to score from close range with Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon caught off balance. Sevilla, beaten 4-2 at Borussia Moenchengladbach, must beat Juventus in their last game and hope the Germans lose to City so they finish third in the group and go into the Europa League.

LVIV, NOVEMBER 26 (REUTERS): Cristiano Ronaldo sparkled as Real Madrid, who had already sealed a place in the last 16 of the Champions League, clinched top spot in Group A with a remarkable 4-3 win over Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday.

Ronaldo scored after 18 and 70 minutes while Luka Modric (50) and Dani Carvajal (52) also struck to put the 10-times European champions in complete command on a freezing night in western Ukraine.

The temperature then soared quickly, on the field at least, as Shakhtar netted three times in the closing stages. Brazilian midfielder Alex Teixeira converted a penalty after 77 minutes before Dentinho chested the ball into the net from a corner. Teixeira was again on target with an elegant drive in the 88th minute as the hosts gave Real a huge fright.

Real have 13 points from five matches, three ahead of Paris St Germain who also qualified by beating Malmo 5-0 in Sweden.

PSG are sure to finish second because they have an inferior head to head record against Real. Shakhtar and Malmo both have three points and are eliminated.

Ronaldo opened the scoring with a header and grabbed his second goal of the night on the rebound after his initial attempt was blocked by a defender.

The Portugal forward also played a part in the other two goals by the visitors before Shakhtar came storming back as Real conceded their first goals in this year's competition.

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DATE : 28/11/2015

PLACE : KOHIMA

CHIEF GUESTS : 1. Opening ceremony : Shri L.L Doungel, IPS, DGP, Nagaland 2. Closing ceremony : Shri Pankaj Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary, Nagaland

ORDER OF PROGRAMME

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OPENING CEREMONY:

CLOSING CEREMONY :

05:30 hrs : All Participants to reach the starting point

Chief Guest arrives

05:50 hrs : Chief Guest arrives

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Brief Introduction

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SHORT SPEECH : 1. SRCW, Project Director 2. CHIEF GUEST Flag off : CHIEF GUEST

(08:30 AM - tentative)

SHORT SPEECH: 1. ADGP(L&O) 2. CHIEF GUEST

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Prize Distribution : CHIEF GUEST Vote of thanks : Chair person, Organizing Committee

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Light Refreshment

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