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www.morungexpress.com
The Morung Express
Dimapur VOL. IX ISSUE 330
“
reflections
By Sandemo Ngullie
www.morungexpress.com
Girl Rising to engage kids through films
Hong Kong protest movement’s unlikely leader
Public endorses new Lotha Hoho leadership
[ PAGE 08]
[ PAGE 09]
[ PAGE 06]
[ PAGE 2]
If You Keep Texting, Your Head Will Fall Off
DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) today called upon Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to “not only understand the region and the state,” but to “walk extra miles to explore beyond perceived boundaries and under-linings...” This, the ENPO stated through a press release, would “usher better understanding and meaningful relationship between the Naga people and the government of India, and the region of North East of India as a whole.” ENPO stated that the people of Eastern Nagaland await “inclusive and participative governance taking into account every corner of the North East of India.”
ENSF suspends boycott
TUENSANG, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) has temporarily suspended the proposed boycott of the Nagaland statehood celebration on December 1 in the four districts of eastern Nagaland viz, Tuensang, Mon, Longleng & Kiphire. A press note from the ENSF informed that the decision was taken “considering the larger interest of the Nagas in general, honoring the visit of the Prime Minister of India and on the appeal made by the Governor of Nagaland in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan on November 28.” The ENSF, while acknowledging the Governor’s assurances to look into their grievances, asserted that it “demands nothing less or more than” the agreement made between the State Government and the ENSF on November 26. It urged the State Government “not to test the patience of the Federation but to implement the agreement before January 25, 2015 in letter and in spirit.”
HSLC exams from February 10
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DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) has informed that the HSLC and HSSLC examinations 2015 will commence from February 10, 2015 and February 11, 2015 onwards. A press note from the NBSE further stated that the Class 11 Promotion Exams will begin from February 10. The NBSE informed that 23632 students have enrolled for the HSLC exams while 13656 have enrolled for the HSSLC exams. In addition, 15497 students will appear for the Class 11 Promotion Exam.
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–Muhammad Ali
Clarke’s heartbreaking tribute [ PAGE 12]
3 Naga political groups lok sabha speaker bats for ‘accountable, ‘pledge to work closely’ transparent and responsible’ governance Mahajan asserts women’s rights
Kohima | November 29
ENPO urges PM to explore beyond ‘perceived boundaries’
Sunday, November 30, 2014 12 pages Rs. 4
[S]He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life
Our Correspondent
Roads, Power, Water supply and Traffic. Everything’s up and running, but if PM Modi stays for more than 2 days, we are all goners.
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Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan today said that democracy has prevailed in Nagaland for centuries and even today head of the village is elected at the local level through democratic procedure. She termed this a sign of a “successful and healthy democracy.” Addressing the 50-years anniversary of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) here, she said since the formation of the State of Nagaland in 1963, the people of Nagaland have reposed faith in democratic institutions by actively participating in elections. “I am glad to note that starting from 50% voter turnout in the first assembly elections held in 1964, it has several times gone to near 90%,” she said. Over the years, she noted, the role and responsibilities of legislators have significantly increased. Legislative bodies have multi-dimensional functions to perform ranging from ventilating people’s grievances to making laws, to debating policies and subjects of public importance, and surveillance over functioning of the administration. “Such public responsibili-
KOhIMA, NOVEMBER 29 (DIPR): Lok Sabha Speaker, Sumitra Mahajan, asserted the representation of women in the State Assembly and educating the girl child. Addressing a press conference after the inaugural programme of the 50 year anniversary of the NLA, Mahajan said that women should enjoy their rights in policy making and decision making. “As a human being she has a right and nobody can take away her rights,” she maintained. She assured that she would do her best to pass the Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan and others after unveiling the monolith in commemoration of women’s reservation bill in Parliament during her tenure. 50 years of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) in Kohima on November 29. (Morung Photo) ties require the members of the legislature to be true and faithful to the principles of democracy. Thus, the biggest challenge before democratic institutions, and the legislators, is to live up to the expectations of the people,” said Mahajan. The Speaker appealed to the legislators to come forward to contribute in strengthening the representative system of governance. She also stressed on the need to strive together to ensure that the politics of confrontation and intolerance finds no place in a democratic set up.
“We must collectively work to give way to politics of reconciliation and accommodation in the larger interest of the unity of the nation and the prosperity of our people,” she said. Mahajan called upon the elected members to strive to ensure that governance in Nagaland State remains accountable, transparent and responsible; responsive to the people’s needs and demands. She urged the people to develop Nagaland according to its ‘special and unique’ position in the socio-cultural
landscape of the country because of its scenic beauty, lush greenery rich tradition of art and crafts, serene ambience and its friendly and self respecting people. In that, she asked the State to develop according to culture and potential and not copy other States for development, and stressed on the need to convert the potential for tourism into reality. She said that she was proud to visit Nagaland, the ‘land of fearless Rani Gaidinliu,’ stating that the bravery and courage of the ‘Great
Freedom Fighter’ known as ‘Rani Laxmi Bai of Nagaland’ cannot be expressed in words. Majahan said the high literacyrateandhigherwomen’swork participation ratio compared to the all India average is a remarkable feature of the State. Stating that urbanization and providing employment opportunities to the youth are key focus areas, she stressed on the need to pay attention towards skill development for which state-of-the-art facilities have to be provided in institutions like ITI’s. Related news on page 5
Says ‘Our differences should not compromise our political right’ and reaffirms ‘common political vision’ for Naga people
DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): Three Naga political groups have affirmed the pursuance of a “common political vision” despite “our differed ideological and administrative positions.” “We reaffirm that we are bound by common history,” stated a joint statement from Gen. (Retd) Khole Konyak, Chairman, NSCN, N Kitovi Zhimomi, General Secretary, NSCN, Z. Royim Yimchungru, Acting President, NNC, Vizosielhou Nagi, General Secretary, NNC, Zhopra Vero, Kedallo, FGN for Brig. (Retd) S Singnya, Kedahge, FGN and TS Keyho, Vice President, NNC. “Our differences should not compromise our political right and therefore, upholding the spirit of Naga national unity, we are determined to understand each other because the interest of future Naga generations must be safeguarded at all cost and therefore, we repose our faith in each other and pledge that we shall work closely and facilitate each other in finding acceptable political settlement with the Government of Indi. We commit ourselves to this task as desired by our people,” the leaders noted. The statement, signed on November 29 at the Council Headquarters of the GPRN/NSCN, urged the people of Nagaland to continue extending fullest support and cooperation. “Having observed the political developments within and beyond artificial boundary, the people of Nagaland desire honorable political settlement with the Government of India. This is the practical step towards forming stronger ties among entire Naga family,” the joint statement noted.
DAN rewarding the corrupt, NPCC says DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) today continued to hit out at the NPF led DAN government for allegedly “plunging the State in an abysmal deficit of 1252.45 crores.” A press note from the NPCC media cell claimed that the DAN government “has plundered every conceivable arena having government funds” and that the “desperate attempts to blame the previous Congress led UPA Government or the Finance Commission is merely a cheap gimmick to pass the buck and cover up its mis-governance before the people.” The NPCC continued that the State Government has “ravaged the State Exchequer with its nepotistic policies and connivance with a select group of contractors and suppliers to loot hundreds of crores of public money at the cost of infrastructure development including basic amenities like health care, electricity and even salaries of the Government employees.” It further expressed concern that the DAN government has been “relentlessly begging the Central Government to bail out the state from the current financial crisis in the form of special financial packages.” The NPCC also listed out several areas in which it alleged the DAN had made a “mockery” of governance over the past decade. It specifically pointed out that during 2003-2011, the State Government constructed numerous government offices and complexes. In all these construction works, it alleged that “abnormal-
ly high cost of project and enormous escalation of revised rates was granted to select contractors which caused colossal loss to the State Exchequer.” “All these construction works have been approved at very high cost whilst most of the works were completed at unbelievably higher rate after revision of the approved cost,” the NPCC stated. It further said that the centrally sponsored schemes, especially the Central Flagship Programme that does not fall within the purview of the State budget, “are blatantly misused,” and lamented that the DAN government has become a “protector of criminals.” The NPCC then called out the State Government on the “seizure of unaccounted cash” during the 2013 assembly elections and stated that the Government has been “rewarding the corrupt.” In addition to this, the NPCC also slammed the DAN government’s failure to implement a Lokayukta for the State and the alleged “misuse of 712 crores meant for the 6th ROP.” While pointing to the conduct of road shows and the Hornbill Festival, the NPCC and stated that “the obsession with fun loving and merrymaking activities by the DAN government has reduced agencies like the Music Task Force to deviate from its originally acclaimed purpose to facilitate, create, nurture, support and develop latent talent and resources towards professionalism and livelihood in any and every facet of the music industry.” Full text on Page 10
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Hindi teachers demand 7 months’ salary Dimapur, November 29 (mexN): In light of the agreement signed between nearly 200 aggrieved Hindi teachers and the DoSE on November 25, the Aggrieved Hindi Teachers of Dimapur and Niuland units have requested the Directorate of School Education (DoSE) to release the salary of the Hindi teachers for 7 months in 5th RoP at the earliest, and not three months. A press release from representatives of the two units informed that MHRD Fund (201415 till March) has been released by the Government of India for 1379 Hindi teachers. The Hindi teachers further requested the department to disburse the 6th RoP arrears from the date of their appointment before the end of December as promised to the aggrieved Hindi Teachers by the Parliamentary Secretary, Education on November 23, 2014. The Hindi Teachers further lauded the assurance given by Parliamentary Secretary, Education that “he never neglected the Hindi Teachers and that he will not rest unless all our rightful demands are fulfilled.” The teachers also acknowledged the central body, All Nagaland Hindi TeacherUnion (ANHTU) for their initiatives and requested all the Hindi Teachers (2012-13 Batch) to “clear the misunderstanding between us since they have also fulfilled all their promises in time.”
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Public endorses new Lotha Hoho leadership
Wokha, November 29 (mexN): A new team of Lotha Hoho office bearers has been elected for the tenure 2014-2018. A general body meeting of the Lotha Hoho held on November 28 at Local Ground, Wokha Town elected Mhao Humtsoe as chairman, S. Mhonlumo Lotha as vice president, Er. Mhondamo Ovung – general secretary, and Benathung Odyuo – treasurer. A press release from Y Likao Humtsoe, Meeting Recorder, informed that reposing “full faith” in the leadership of the newly constituted body, the house endorsed the new leadership of the Lotha community. The meeting also resolved that every Lotha shall “willingly and conscientiously” extend support to the office bearers in their endeavour and effort they initiate for the cause of the tribe. All the documents and materials of Lotha Hoho must be handed over to the new team on or before December 31, it was decided. The house also unani-
mously declare documents like ‘No Objection certificate’ issued to Government or any agencies without prior approval of the Lotha general public through a meeting as “null and void” for all references. All important issues concerning the tribe shall be finalized through approval of the general public only. However, in cases of emergencies, the Hoho officials shall execute on behalf of the Tribe and bring the action taken report to the general public, the meeting decided. Further, it was resolved that the Lotha Hoho officials shall represent and act on behalf of the Lotha community be it at State, National or at International level. The House also unanimously resolved that any Lotha who goes against the November 28 proceedings and resolutions shall be termed as “anti-Lotha” and “shall be left to fend for himself/herself in times of need and difficulties,” the release stated. The meeting initiated by Kyong Students’ Union (KSU), Lotha
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Youth Hoho (LYH), Kyong Eloe Hoho (KEH) and Wokha District Village Council Chairmen Association (WDVCCA) to solve the Kyong Hoho impasse, was attended by the Village Council Chairmen, Gaunburas, representatives from 82 villages besides all the frontal organizations of Lotha Hoho and general public. The newly elected Chairman addressing the gathering expressed joy for reposing faith in him and his team. He appealed to keep up the spirit of oneness and vowed to work for the interest of the tribe and appealed to the house, especially the young generation to remain responsive. Pointing out that Lotha Tribal Council (later came to be called Lotha Hoho) was established in 1923 by the visionary elders, he expressed the need to uphold the same zeal and functioning environment in the days to come for the betterment of the tribe. The meeting was chaired by Jonas Yanthan; the main pur- Under the theme "Glorifying God's Faithfulness", the Rengma Baptist Church Kohima dedipose and objective of the meet- cated its new Church building on November 29 and will celebrate its Golden Jubilee on Noing was elucidated by CR Lotha. vember 30. Dr. Anjo Keikung will be the main speaker.
JD(U) urges NPF to take people’s mandate seriously
Dimapur, November 29 (mexN): The Nagaland State unit of Janada Dal (United) has appealed to the NPF that the mandate the people of Nagaland have reposed on the party for third term must be taken with “seriousness and accommodative spirit with the alliance so as to finish remaining unfinished task.” C M Y K
Congratulating Dr Shurozelie Leizetsu for being re-elected as president of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) for another five-year term, State JD(U) president, Mhonjan Lotha in a press release stated that the need of the hour is to strengthen the government with collective effort to “carry on the common minimum program of the
DAN including the solution of the vexed Naga Political Problem and over all development of the State.” Hence, it said, “any attempt to dislodge the present mandated government is against the interest of the people of Nagaland.” Further, the JD(U) appealed to the NPF and alliance legislators to be honest and work for the
progress of the State. The JD(U) Nagaland also hoped that the visit of the Prime Minister of India, Narender Modi will bring prosperity to the people of Nagaland. Lauding Modi for successfully launching Jan Dhan Yojna and Clean India, JD (U) urged the State government to maintain and follow clean and corrupt free Nagaland.
Tail Feathers – Official broadcaster of Hornbill Festival 2014
Dimapur, November 29 (mexN): Tail Feathers is the official broadcaster of Hornbill Festival 2014. The festival will be streamed live on Tail Feathers’ portal - www.tailfeathersmedia. com, which will be linked to all the new social media such as Facebook, Watsapp etc and local cable network (Dimapur, Kohima and Mokochung). A press release from Tail Feathers informed that it is
a professional media production house comprising of unemployed Naga youth with vast experiences in the field of media (broadcast and film production). Tail Feathers was formed in 2014 for the sole purpose of collaborating all young Naga creative artists and professionals in bringing out a world class product in the field of entertainment. Hokheli Wotsa, the managing director said, “We create
a space where ever-spontaneous and creative minds are always working on innovative and pragmatic ideas. A space for channeling their power an opportunity for them to think out-of-thebox, a place for them compete and to succeed.” “The new concept of reaching the wider audience through broadcasting is indeed a great opportunity for us as we are not only catering the event live
to our local people through our local operator but also around the world through our webcasting,” said Vito Sumi, creative director of Tail Feathers. According to the release, Tail Feathers are also expert in documentary films, short films, music videos, graphics designing and animations. The core concept of the production house is to bring out world class product in the field of visual media, it was stated.
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SN demands befitting punishment C M Y K
Dimapur, November 29 (mexN): Survival Nagaland has lauded Dimapur police for the quick operation in nabbing Hussain Ahmed, the main accused in the November 24 hacking case at River Belt Colony with the help of Muslim Council, Dimapur under the investigating officer Setsachem Sangtam, ASI. Media Cell, Survival Nagaland in a press release stated, “The Dimapur Police have done their duty successfully and it now lays with the judiciary to ensure that most befitting punishment be meted out.” It urged the judiciary to investigate all possibilities so as to award maximum punishment to the accused. “We also highly suspect the accused to be an Illegal Bangladeshi Immigrant (or displaced person) and hope the case will be taken up accordingly,” Survival Nagaland said, adding it will be following the case.
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Young people from different Christian ministries in Mokokchung Town participate in the Gloria Patri cleanliness drive conducted at Public Ground Mokokchung on September 29 morning. Gloria Patri is a worship revolution initiated by likeminded youths in Dimapur with the vision to encourage young people to bring gory to God through spiritual as well as social transformation. (Photo by Aden Jamir)
MEx File Annual meeting of IAS officers
tate smooth movement of vehicles, to avoid traffic congestion and for the convenience kohima, November 29 (mexN): of all concerned,” stated a press release from The annual meeting of Nagaland IAS Offi- KT Thomas Rengma, Addl. Director, Direccers Association (NIASOA) has been con- torate of Tourism, Government of Nagaland. vened on December 3 in the Civil Secretariat conference hall at 2:00 pm. Kesonyu Yhome (IAS), Additional Secretary to the Government of Nagaland & General Sec- Dimapur, November 29 (mexN): retary NIASOA has informed all IAS offi- The Excise duty party at Chumukedima check gate headed by Mainshila Aier (AIE) cers to attend the meeting positively. seized 340 bottles of assorted liquor from a Hyundai i20 bearing registration No. NL01H1706 on November 27. The driver of the car, Alo Rengma, was arrested and charged for violation of NLTP Act, a press reDimapur, November 29 (mexN): lease informed. “The seized articles are kept The District AIDS Prevention and Con- in the Malkahna and will be destroyed in the trol Unit (DAPCU) Dimapur in collabora- next destruction,” said Visedelie Mepfu-o, tion with Partner NGOs of Dimapur will Assistant Commissioner of Excise. observe the 27th World AIDS Day under the theme “Getting to Zero: Focus, Partner, Achieve: An AIDS-Free Generation” on December 1, 12:00 pm at Town Hall Di- ZuNheboto, November 29 mapur. Rozelle Mero, Managing Director, (mexN): In view of the recent outbreak of The People Channel, Dimapur will be the Ebola virus disease in West Africa, which guest speaker. The Organizing Committee has been declared a 'Disease of Global has invited all its partners, friends and well concern' by WHO, and the International Hornbill festival around, a training is bewishers to the commemoration. ing organized in the office chamber of the Chief Medical Officer, Zunheboto on December 3 at 10:30 am. All the SMOs and kohima, November 29 (mexN): All MO I/Cs under Zunheboto district have visitors and guests to the Hornbill Festival been informed to attend the training withhave been informed to be seated at the ven- out fail, informed a press release issued by ue by 9:30 am or before that. “This is to facili- Shekho Sophie, District Media Officer.
IMFL seized at Chumu check gate
Dimapur to observe World AIDS Day
Training on Ebola in Zunheboto
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Hornbill Festival visitors informed
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REgional
The Morung Express
Sunday
30 November 2014
Dimapur
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10-year-old killed in Security scenario in North East AFSPA extended for 6 months in Tripura Manipur bomb blast region is "fragile": IB Chief says Guwahati, November 29 (Pti): The security scenario in the North East region is "fragile" and insurgent outfits' safely ensconced in neighbouring countries are compounding the problem, Intelligence Bureau Director Syed Asif Ibrahim said on Saturday. "The situation in the N-E region continues to be fragile due to the violent activities of (militant) groups outside talks (with government)", Ibrahim said addressing the 49th annual conference of DGPs, IGPs of all States, Union Territories and Central Police Organisations heads here for the first time outside Delhi. "Safe sanctuaries for insurgent groups in the neighbouring countries, particularly in Myanmar, has compounded the security situation in the region", he pointed out. Analysing the security situation,
the IB Director said the NDFB in Assam has emerged as the outfit responsible for 85 per cent of the casualties. In Meghalaya the GNLA-ULFA combine is responsible for 75 per cent of casualties and 40 per cent of incidents, while the Meitei underground groups are responsible for 55 per cent of casualties, he said. In Nagaland it was internecine clashes among various outfits for area domination and extortion, while in Arunachal Pradesh there is turf war between two Naga groups in three districts of Changlang, Tirap and Longding, Ibrahim said. On the Maoist threat, the IB chief said, "there has been decline in their recruitment. Against 39 central members only 20 are left. They are also facing desertion". "They have crisis of leadership
and are facing shortage of arms. Their shrinkage of area of operation has led to decline in their killings", Ibrahim said. "Despite that, fresh strategies have to be drawn up. Key roles have to be assigned to the police down to the district level by providing them support and arms", he said. The two-day annual conference from today is a platform for formulating design, fine tuning the security challenges and coordination of strategies for security, the IB Director said. With abiding commitment to the North East region, he said the security related issues to be highlighted in the Conference are radicalisation, left wing extremism, further improving the accessibility of the justice system by the common people, besides improvement of the security situation in the area accorded highest importance.
aGartala, November 29 (iaNS): The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which gives sweeping powers and judicial immunity to security forces in conflicthit areas, was extended for another six months in Tripura, an official said here Saturday. "Senior security and civil officials of the state and central governments recently reviewed the law and order situation of the state and decided to extend the AFSPA for another six months," a home department official told IANS. A state-level coordination committee (SLCC) is overseeing counter-insurgency operations in Tripura, which shares a 856-km border with Bangladesh. Members of two separatist groups - National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) - are sheltering and availing arms training in Bangladesh. Both outfits have set up bases in Bangladesh and get support from other separatist groups in northeast India. They have been demanding seces-
sion of Tripura from India. The home department official said: "Though the four-and-half-decade old terrorism has been tamed in Tripura, the state government is averse to taking any chances for some more time." The NLFT militants recently stepped up violent activities in northern Tripura, bordering Bangladesh and Mizoram. Police said the militants have killed two BSF troopers, a civilian driver and abducted several people in six different incidents. Tripura has 72 police stations. AFSPA was first enforced in Tripura in 1997. The act is in force in 30 police station areas - fully operational in 24 police station areas and partially operational in six. In view of the improvement in the situation and the lessening of terrorist activities, the Tripura government in June last year reduced operational areas of the AFSPA to 30 police station areas instead of the earlier 40. Local rights groups and political parties, specially the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura, want it repealed.
imPhal, November 29 (iaNS): A 10-year-old boy was killed in an explosion in Manipur Saturday, police said. The blast took place a day ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the state. "The young boy was standing on a road at Lilong (under Thoubal district) while his mother was collecting some forest products nearby when the bomb exploded, killing him on the spot," a police officer said. "The mother immediately rushed the boy to a hospital, where doctors declared him as brought dead," he added. Modi would visit the state Sunday to attend the closing ceremony of the Sangai Manipur Tourism Festival. He will be the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the festival, the biggest tourism carnival named after Sangai, the rare browantlered deer, available only in Keibul Lamjao national park in state's Bishenpur district. During his stay in Imphal, the prime minister is likely to lay the foundation stone for a sports university.
PM Modi flags off Meghalaya's first train, compares NE to Lakshmi Guwahati, November 29 (iaNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday flagged off the first passenger train from Mendipathar in Meghalaya to Dudhnoi in Assam, thereby putting Meghalaya for the first time on India's railway map. He compared the northeast region to Goddess Lakshmi, and said development of the region will help the rest of India. The prime minister, who kick-started a three-day fourstate tour of the region, also laid the foundation stone of a new broad gauge railway line between Bhairabi and Sairang in Mizoram. "Vaastu Shastra claims that if one keeps the Eshan (northeast) corner of a house in order, it boosts the prosperity of the house. Similarly, I believe that if we can keep India's northeast in order, it would help the rest of the country also," Modi said in his address to thousands of people at the railway stadium in Guwahati. Modi, on his maiden visit after becoming prime minister, said infrastructure was the key to development. "If we can develop the infrastructure of the region, development will follow. The northeast region will achieve new heights of development if infrastructure like rail and road links
are developed," he said. Modi compared the eight states of the region with Ashta Lakshmi (the eight different forms of Goddess Lakshmi), and said proper development of the Ashta Lakshmi will help develop other parts of the region too. Referring to his recent visit to Myanmar, Modi said he has already taken up the issue of railway link between the northeast and Myanmar. "They say this is the century of Asia, and if it is true, the northeast must have its share of it. Mygovernment'seffortwillbe to establish rail links between the region and Myanmar and other Asian countries, which will boost the potential of the region," he said. Modi also stressed on the need to modernise the railways and said his government has decided to invite private investment in railways and privatise the railway stations to make them economically viable. "The railway connects. But it also expedites the speed of development. It is in fact the spine of the country's economy," he said. "Unfortunately in the past, railway budgets have been only about adding a compartment and adding new tracks. I want to develop the railways, both vertically and horizontally" he said.
INVITATION
SITUATION VACANT JUBILEE MEMORIAL SCHOOL (Affiliated to CISCE, New Delhi) Salangtem Ward, Mokokchung, Nagaland.
Walk-in Interview 1. Graduate with B.Ed (Middle Section) Social Science: 1 post 2. Graduate with Montessori/B.Ed to teach Primary & Middle Section (Ao Naga): 1 Post Candidate requires Ao Proficiency Test V conducted by Ao Senden Literature Board. 3. Maths & Science (Primary & Middle Section) B.Sc with B.Ed : 1 Post 4. English for Middle Section: 1 Post Qualification: B.A. (Hons)/M.A. with B.Ed
Contact
Capital Training Institute Near T.C.P.Gate, Kohima Mob:No 9402831939/ 9436201083
ZioN hoSPital & rESEarch cENtrE UROLOGIST FOR CONSULTATION/OPERATION Dr. JOY N. CHAKRABORTY MS. DNB (Surgery), DNB (Urology), FRCS renowned Endourosurgeon from Guwahati will be available for consultation on 10th December 2014 (Wednesday). NEURO-PSYCHIATRIST FOR CONSULTATION Dr. PAKHA TESIA MD (NIMHANS) Bangalore will be available for consultation on 13th December 2014 (Saturday). Patients requiring Consultation/Operation for Urinary problems, Prostate, Kidney & Bladder Stone may contact the Reception for Registration. CANCER SURGEON FOR CONSULTATION Dr. GANESH DAS MBBS, MS (PGIMER) Trained Cancer Surgeon from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai will be available for consultation on 20th December 2014 (Saturday). For Registration, please contact: 03862- 231864, 227337, 224117 For more information, visit our website: www.zhrc.in
DECLARATION
I, Shri. PUKROYI MEDE-O son of Lt.VEVOTSO MEDE-O age about 53 years residing at Runguza Village do hereby solemnly affirm and declare an oath as under: 1. That my name is Shri. PUKROYI and changed name is Shri. PUKROYI MEDE-O. 2. I am residing at the below mentioned address for the past 53 years. Address: - Runguza Village P.O/P.S-Chozuba Town-797104 Dist.Phek; Nagaland Deponent
Solemnly affirmed before me by the deponent at Chozuba on this 09 Oct 2014
ADC & 1st Class Magistrate, Chozuba, Phek Dist, Nagaland
officE of thE iKiShE VillagE couNcil Dimapur-797112: Nagaland INFORMATION Ikishe Village Council and G.B.S held its meeting on 29/11/2014 and resolved the resolutions to inform all the land/Plot owners within our village jurisdiction to make new and renew land Patta for paying 1500/= and 1000/= respectively on or before 30thJan 2015 after which defaulters shall be impose action as per the council constitutions since new land Patta has been made after the village recognition Sd/Kakhevi Kinimi Chairman IVC
Sd/Khubolho Yepthomi Sectary IVC
The Hon’ble Chief Ministers of Kachin State & Sagaing Region of Myanmar, Shri Lajon Ngan Seng & Shri U Thar Aye will be participating in the event as the Chief Guests.
5. PGT for Environmental Science (10+2 ISC) Qualification: M.Sc (Evs/Agriculture/Botany with B.Ed.)
President & Colleagues Kigwema Youth Organization
Scale of Pay for Sl. No. 1 to 4 : 8000 – 240 – 12800/- P.M. Plus D.A 45%,HRA, M.A. etc. Sl. No. 5 : 9300 – 280 – 14900/- P.M. Plus D.A 45%, HRA, M.A. etc Perks: CPF, LTC, Gratuity, etc. (EXPERIENCED HANDS AND ICSE & ISC BACKGROUND PREFERRED) DATE OF INTERVIEW: 8th of December 2014 at J.M. School Complex (Written Test at 8:30 A.M). Interested candidates may report at J.M. School office along with all original documents latest by 8:00 A.M. on the same day. Please note that NO CALLING LETTERS WILL BE ISSUED separately. Sd. S.K. Maiti Principal, J.M. School Ph. No. 0369-2226319
ADMISSION CAPITAL TUITION CENTRE offers Winter Coaching for Class ten (10) selection passed students &Repeaters in all subjects (Dec & Jan 2015)
The Kigwema Youth Organization in collaboration with the Government of Nagaland (Department of Tourism), will be organizing a Traditional Monolith Pulling event on the 2nd of December 2014, commencing from 11:00 Hrs onwards at Kipfüzha Kigwema, as part of the 15th Nagaland State Hornbill Festival 2014 & as a launching programme to the KYO Platinum Jubilee Meet 2015.
Sd. Chairman BOG, J.M. School
goVErNMENt of NagalaNd rural dEVEloPMENt dEPartMENt No. RD/SLMC-40/2009
Dated Kohima, the 28th Nov. 2014
MEETING NOTICE To review the implementation of the projects/schemes being implemented by various Departments in the State funded under Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, Meetings of the State Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee (SLV&MC) and District Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee (DLV&MC) are being convened, one after another, as per the details indicated below: SLV&MC Meeting: Sl. Date Day Time Venue No 1 2 3 4 5 th 1 5 Nov.2014 Friday 10:00AM- Conference Hall of 11:30AM Directorate of RD, Kohima.
DLV&MC Meeting: Sl. No 1 1
Date
2 5th Nov.2014
Day
Time
Venue
3 4 5 Friday 11:00AM Conference Hall of Directorate of RD, Kohima
This DLV&MC Meeting is being held at Kohima as desired by the Chairman, DLV&MC. All Members of SLV&MC and DLV&MC are, therefore, requested to kindly make it convenient to attend respective Meetings positively as indicated above. Sd/- V. SAKHRIE Commissioner & Secretary, RD
NagalaNd Board of School EducatioN Kohima
NOTIFICATION Dated Kohima, the 29th November 2014 NO.NBE-3/EX-Misc(10)/2014-15/ :: The examination routine of the following examinations are hereby notified for information of all concerned.
A. HSSLC Examination 2015 Date 10th February 2015 12th February 2015 14th February 2015
Day Tuesday Thursday Saturday
16th February 2015
Monday
18th February 2015 20th February 2015
Wednesday Friday
23rd February 2015 25th February 2015 27th February 2015 28th February 2015 2nd March 2015
Monday Wednesday Friday Saturday Monday
Subject (Time 9 am to 12 noon) English Economics Alternative English/Hindi/Bengali/Tenyidie/ Sumi/Ao/Lotha Political Science/Accountancy/Chemistry Sociology Education/Psychology/ Fundamentals of Business Mathematics /Biology Philosophy/Mathematics History/Business Studies/Physics Geography/Entrepreneurship Music/Biotechnology Computer Science/Informatics Practices
B. Class 11 Promotion Examination 2015 Date 10th February 2015 12th February 2015 14th February 2015
Day Tuesday Thursday Saturday
16th February 2015 18th February 2015 20th February 2015
Monday Wednesday Friday
23rd February 2015 25th February 2015 27th February 2015 28th February 2015 2nd March 2015
Monday Wednesday Friday Saturday Monday
3rd March
Tuesday
Date 11th February 2015 13th February 2015 17th February 2015 19th February 2015 21st February 2015
Day Wednesday Friday Tuesday Thursday Saturday
C. HSLC Examination 2015
Subject (Time 1 pm to 4 pm) English Economics Alternative English/Hindi/Bengali/ Tenyidie/Sumi/Ao/Lotha History/Business Studies/Chemistry Sociology/Financial Markets Education/Psychology/ Fundamentals of Business Mathematics /Biology Philosophy/Mathematics/Mutual Funds Political Science/Accountancy/Physics Geography/Entrepreneurship Music/Biotechnology Computer Science/Informatics Practices Environmental Education
Subject (Time 9 am to 12 noon) English Mathematics Science Social Sciences Second Language Tenyidie/Ao/Sumi/Lotha/Hindi/Bengali/ Alternative English 24th February 2015 Tuesday Sixth Subjects: IIT*/Music*/Home Science*/ BK & Accountancy*/ Agriculture*/ Environmental Education * The duration of the examination for Agriculture, Home Science, Book Keeping & Accountancy is 2½ hours i.e. 9 am to 11.30 am. For IIT and Music it is 1½ hours i.e. 9 am to 10.30 am. (Mrs. Asano Sekhose) Chairman Note: Examination routine shall not be altered in the event of any unexpected holiday. However, in case of cancellation or postponement of the date(s) of examination, it shall be notified through the media.
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The Morung Express public discoursE “ANOTHER MORNING” Will History Remember Yitachu? Dimapur
Sunday
30 November 2014
It was one of those days when the maturing sun humiliate human with its excruciating heat, in the middle of July 2009, at one of the most unsophisticated and remote place in Nagaland, that I met my friend Nzanbeni Kinghen. The story of our friendship dates back to one of our mission assignments. I was assigned for an outreach mission with the ‘Hope Assemblies’, a mission to rehabilitate people living under drugs and alcohol influence. The place we were deployed was very remote in the town of Noklak. I travelled with a team of fifteen members for a month long mission. This particular mission remained my most adventurous and moving experience of all time. The road to Noklak town was something out of the ordinary. It was rather too jumpy, dusty and bumpy. I wished I had not expected an improbable luxury of proper roads and other social comforts. Too bad, the road was a complete disappointment. The rattling sound of our van woke the team up from their sleep. As I opened my eyes, all I could see was a narrow opening curved out as a road fabricated with sands, with potholes everywhere and the roads nearly punctured the tyre of the van. I drowned into a deep reverie intensely dreaming of all the comforts of my home. We saw from a distance, a sign written in one of the ancestral rocks, “Welkam to Noklak”, merely scribbled. After six long hours on the road, we finally reached our destination. Along with all our entourage we were stationed in one of the community guest house for the rest of our mission. The next morning we woke up to a quite different world than the previous morning. The unaltered air, the stillness and the quietness and the solemn bliss of the whole place was a treat to our worn selves. The place was loudly green without the effects of mechanization. A young girl came in later that day announcing our lunch. She seemed to be in her mid-twenties, her hair so long and black like ebony and somehow she had that plain unpolished rural countenance. I assumed at once that she might be one
among the managerial only to find that she was the cook. “Your lunch is ready”, she announced. And by virtue of being the leader of the team, I curtsied with a “thank you”. After our scrumptious lunch, I proposed that the girl take us on a tour of the town. “So, what is your name?” I asked. “Nzanbeni Kinghen is my name”, was her reply. A week just flew by, our entire team busy with our mission work. I became very well acquainted with Nzanbeni Kinghen but not too well to understand her personal debacles. She was unusually very timid. There wasn’t any strong reason why I should be interested in her life but something vexed me and urged my curiosity. So I intruded without having any qualms about my action. It was a short story of her life but remained the crux of my sojourn and this story itself. “Why do you work as a cook here?” I asked. “I did not have any choice.” She said with a grin. I mocked at her saying that a young girl should not be venting out on such matters. But my rarity wit did not do much. “I chose to give up on any choice because everything is beyond my means” she blurted. Silence ensued. She remained quiet for quite a while. I stole for myself a little time to ponder. After what seemed like forever, I persuaded her to continue with her story. “I am a drop-out and people like us are unfit for anything. Society doesn’t need us. We are like an insidious bug ready to infect them”, she said these words with intense rancour. I wanted to say something but I simply stuttered. I would never say that I had an easy life growing up but there weren’t too many ‘disagreeables’ either. And being in my present profession for a fair amount of time, I’m well aware about the consummation among the youths of today. What I wasn’t aware of was the ‘discrimination’ being meted out to the drop-outs, in a social set-up deeply rooted in Christianity. “But why do you think the society doesn’t need
you?” I asked eagerly. “I believe it is because we don’t have the qualifications, the certificates… .i don’t think I have other flaws too. The fact that I couldn’t continue my studies is not my fault…fate dealt me an unfair hand” The devastation in her voice still haunts me. She continued,”I’ve always wanted to make pretty clothes; a career in fashion designing was all I dreamt about. But everywhere I tried, I was always rejected. Once, I and another friend, who is also a drop-out, applied in an institute and she got through because of her politician uncle. I was disgusted. “But you must know that you need certain qualifications such as to pass your secondary level” was my redundant remark. “I don’t think so because my friend was a high school drop-out as well. Maybe she had money and I didn’t. I don’t have money to buy my dreams. We are the backward class after all; small town girl with big dreams” She forced a painful smile. Men are selfish and the systems and institutions are too extravagant with no great goals and rules. I was overcome with guilt and pity. I could not digest the fact that failings and failures can be a social stigma in our society. She added, “Since I was rejected from the institution all I could do was to offer myself as a cook here. Maybe this is where I belong” Being exposed to her abject state of life, I was humbled down to my own mere being. I didn’t come from a patrician family. I was also just like her but perhaps life was kind to me. I was not a victim of this ill of our society. In the lap of her own home, she was made to cry. She was forced down the pit of her one weakness. But a society should be an organic whole enabling like her, feel comforted with any discrimination. Perfection is not human entity and to err is human. I learnt from her story about the remorseful state of many drop-outs spread across the state especially those from the remote areas. I managed to arrange a visit to her house one day. I met her parents, her
two younger sisters and her younger brother. She showed me some of her sketch works and designs. I was amazed by the sophistication in her works. I thought she never needed any training at all. She was already too talented. I walked out of her humble house determined as ever to help her in some way. I was inspired by her sheer tenacity and her talents. And looking back now, I realized that helping her was the only noble work I ever did. The whole of my mission ended successfully. We were able to rehabilitate some one hundred youth living under drugs and alcohol from that vicinity. But what was more thrilling than the mission was the friendship with Nzanbeni Kinghen and the lesson I learnt to keep for life. I took home a formidable task which I never knew could be possible. After all it was somebody’s dream I was going to mend. Today has been a wonderful day; it has always been momentous ever since that day I met Nzanbeni Kinghen. We met today after five long years and it was on this day four years ago that I got her into one of the fashion designing institute after much effort. Seeing her living her dreams as a successful woman makes me want to believe in life more. She got married to a wonderful man last year and very recently gave birth to a baby girl. She now manages most of the fashion shows in Nagaland and is planning on opening her own institute for the people facing the same problem she did. No doubt in my mind that her life is going to get better than ever. Returning home alone after my visit a thought enveloped me; the sea of human ignorance, the fatal action of destiny and the viciousness and selfishness of one’s own society towards their own. I often doubt if I ever needed my master’s degree to be a social worker. I arrived home very late, took a shower and went to sleep. After all, tomorrow will be another morning. Arhoni Jungio. B.A-5TH SEMESTER. DEPT. OF ENGLISH. UNITY COLLEGE ARTS AND COMMERCE
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LEISURE
Simple Rules - There is just one simple rule: “Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.”
SUDOKU Game Number # 3069
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t the outset let me make one thing clear here; that I am not writing this article to please the boss of my department. I sincerely believe that I am expressing the thoughts of lakhs and lakhs of poor people who do not get the opportunity to put their words of appreciation in the print media. The Parliamentary Secretary for School Education has acknowledged that poor attendance and insincerity of staff is a major problem towards development and appealed to all to rededicate and work hard to reach out to every section of the society. He has also said, “It is high time the DSE takes corrective measures where it has gone wrong; improve where it has done well and restrengthen wherever there are good achievements”. I would have considered his speech as one among those of VIPs that many do not take into heart. But his declaration of introducing
biometric system of attendance in Govt. Schools and offices of the Education Department from the year 2015 made me to believe that history will definitely remember him if he makes his words into reality. Even though many honest and upright officers wish to perform duties sincerely, they become handicapped in the corrupt system that is being influenced by muscle/gun power. In today’s world technology is the most powerful weapon that could help us to clean the system and we must make best use of it. Our Parliamentary Secretary’s plan would definitely bring drastic changes in the way of functioning of Govt. Schools in our state and would ultimately change the society within short time. I have been stressing that school is the best place to begin actions for social change and nothing could be achieved without practically eliminating the evil practices
being followed in schools. Let me take this opportunity to describe few incidents to show how we have been teaching corrupt practices to our children from their childhood and later blame them for all the unwise things in life. Most of the children knew well that the date of birth entered in their school record is not the actual one and the birth certificate was purchased for few hundred rupees. So, corruption begins at the very first day of one’s schooling life. Some people may say students of Govt. School are dull and dump. But they would surely know who their real teachers are and who the proxies are. When teachers arrive late and classes are not occupied they may play happily inside the class rooms. They may not ask us now as to why their Govt. schools starts at 9:00 a.m and get over at 12:30 p.m where as the nearby private schools starts at 8:00 a.m and get over at 2:00
p.m. But they may direct their anger towards the society or become a burden to the society when they realize that they get defeated in employment opportunities because they are ill equipped. The officers and teachers of the Education Department know well about the limitations of the Govt. schools and that is why most of our children are studying in the nearby private schools. I do not put the entire blame on the Govt. school teachers and authorities but personally feel that we are responsible for the lapses to a great extend. I am confident that the initiative of our Hon’ble Parliamentary Secretary would be a mile stone in the functioning of the Govt. schools and pray that the almighty bless him with the strength to implement the noble scheme effectively. Nellayappan B Principal Govt. Higher Secondary School Bhandari.
Solution To Naga Issue Within One And Half Year?
P
olitical talk between the Government of India and the NSCN(I-M) took 17 years without conclusion and the Prime Minister has given a time bound of one and half year. It is going to be a matter of nausea. In order to maintain the smooth sailing of the talk, both sides have mutually agreed that settlement would be acceptable and honourable to both sides. The talk lasted to 17 years and it required another one and half year which is seemed that the talk is more for
smooth sailing than for practical realistic talk. The NSCN (I-M) leaders who are a party to the talk are representing the Naga people. I am for justice only and not for or against any group. They are justified to lead the talk as representatives of the Naga people. The people can have confidence in them that they will not betray the people and how far they can do for the Nagas, that far they can endeavour to do. They are really efficient leaders. But they have their
weaknesses too. There is a vacuum in their relationship with the general public. Within the span of 17 years, the general public have been in the dark about the proceedings of the talks. The issue belongs to the Naga people and they are the spokesmen of the people only. So whatever may be the outcome of the talk, whether progress or failure, the matter has to be referred to the people. Such process will make them in honourable stance before the people. But to the NSCN(I-M), the talk
belongs to them and to the general public also the talk belongs to NSCN(I-M). Supporting the talk means supporting NSCN (I-M). So the talk should no longer be factionalised but it should be nationalised to be owned by the general public and then only it will be supported by the general public. In doing so, solution may be sooner than expected. Rev. L. Suohie Mhasi
grEETing
MY ODE TO KISAMA ROAD
D
welling by the edge of the Great Hornbill Road, My senses can feel the blue moon ascending over the horizon of once fertile Nagaland. An air mixed with the smokes of burning tar and tyres was what my nostrils smelt for two to three nights;
Half an inch swelling over the Vajpayee's road formed by Dhansiri local sand is what my eyes see each morn.; No vibratory sound of the Manipur bound trucks' wheels on the once bumpy and dusty road to my ears for a week now. Sigh! I can now swal-
DAILY CROSS WORD
CROSSWORD # 3078
Answer Number # 3070
low my meals peacefully and sleep like a hog atleast for a week, for the chuckled wastes by roadside are not in sight anymore. Though you are here just for weeks; but my gratefulness for you see no bounds, Dear Grasstopping carpet road. N. Athungo Ngully, Kohima: Nagaland DIMAPUR Civil Hospital:
Dad, you're the greatest. Its not Just because you're there for us through good times & bad. Its also because you make the bad times good with your amazing love and support HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY From, Loving wife & Children's
STD CODE: 03862 232224; Emergency229529, 229474
Metro Hospital:
227930, 231081
Faith Hospital:
228846
Shamrock Hospital
228254
Zion Hospital:
231864, 224117, 227337
Police Control Room
228400
Police Traffic Control
232106
East Police Station West Police Station
227607 232181
CIHSR (Referral Hospital)
242555/ 242533
Dimapur hospital
224041, 248011
Apollo Hospital Info Centre:
230695/ 9402435652
Railway:
131/228404
Indian Airlines
229366
Nagaland Multispe- 248302, cialty Health & 09856006026 Research Centre
W
O
R
Environmental Science ABIOTIC ADAPTATION BIODIVERSITY BIOTIC CARNIVORE CLIMATE COMMUNITY CONSUMER DECOMPOSER ECOLOGY ECOSYSTEM ENDANGERED ENERGY EXTINCTION FOODWEB HABITAT HERBIVORE INFERENCE NICHE OMNIVORE PHOTOSYNTHESIS PRODUCER OBSERVATIONS QUALITATIVE QUANTITATIVE RECYCLE SUCCESSION WATERCYCLE
D
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D E C O M P O S E R L Y E F A G X D Q K
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I K W Z S N R H X T A D A P T A T I O N
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P O Z P C N I E I F O O D W E B C A E I
C G I H E L S C T P C I K E Y N T D R D
O V H O S J R O A Q O T V V F I I I B J
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ACROSS 1. Alpha’s opposite 6. Competent 10. Chat 14. One who lays asphalt 15. Absorb written material 16. Withdraw gradually 17. Improve 19. Therefore 20. A four-wheel covered carriage 21. Barbie’s beau 22. Place 23. Drive 25. Stave off 26. A long way off 30. A citrus fruit 32. Chooses 35. Low leather step-in shoes 39. Persons 40. Paradise 41. Germless 43. Futile 44. Cream-filled pastry 46. D D D D 47. Lively 50. Testicle 53. Part in a play 54. Directed 55. Optical illusion
60. Norse god 61. Creator 63. Nipple 64. Forearm bone 65. Ancient Greek marketplace 66. Boxes for bricks 67. Not the original color 68. Sexually assaults
DOWN 1. Iridescent gem 2. Mother 3. Not odd 4. Neuter 5. Operatic solos 6. Arrive (abbrev.) 7. A chemistry cup 8. Sidelong 9. Biblical garden 10. Multiplied 12 times 11. Eagle’s nest 12. Type of beer 13. Whip 18. Not in 24. Dawn goddess 25. Marble 26. Vipers 27. 3 in a yard 28. Found in some lotions 29. Acts as an agent 31. French for “We”
33. Computer mouse action 34. Express in words 36. Type of sword 37. Ascend 38. Back talk 42. Thirstily43. A large vase 45. A type of tincture 47. A thin soup 48. Cowboy sport 49. Homeric epic 51. French for “Friend” 52. Kuwaiti monetary unit 54. Blaring 56. Indian music 57. At the peak of 58. Pierce 59. Historical periods 62. Wander aimlessly Ans to CrossWord 3077
Police Control Room: North Police Station: South Police Station: Fire Brigade: Naga Hospital: Oking Hospital: Bethel Nursing Home: Northeast Shuttles
STD CODE: 0370 100/2244279 2222222 2222111 2222952 2222916 2243339 2224202 08974997923
CHUMUKEDIMA: 03862 282777/101 (O) 9856158740 (OC)
MOKOKCHUNG: 0369 2226225/ 101 (O) 9436012949 (OC) PHEK: 8414853765 (O) 9862130954(OC) ZUNHEBOTO: 03867 280304/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC)
MON: 03869 251222/ 101 (O) 9436208480 (OC) KipHire: 8414853767 (O) 8974304572 (OC)
Toll free No. 1098 childline
Police Station 1:
DIMAPUR: 03862 232201/ 101 (O) 9436017479 (OC)
TUENSANG: 8414853766 (O) 8414853519
CHILD WELFARE COMMITTEE
MOKOKCHUNG:
KOHIMA: 0370 2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC)
WOKHA: 03860 242215/101 (O) 9862039399 (OC)
Chumukedima Fire 282777 Brigade Nikos Hospital and 232032, 231031 Research Centre
KOHIMA
FIRE STATIONS
STD CODE: 0369
2226241
Police Station 2 :
2226214
Civil Hospital: Woodland Nursing Home:
2226216 2226263
Hotel Metsüpen (Tourist Lodge):
2226373/2229343
TAHAMZAM (formerly Senapati) STD CODE: 03871 Police Station: Fire Brigade
CURRENCY EXCHANGE CURRENCY NOTES US Dollars Sterling Pound Hong Kong Dollar Australian Dollar Singapore Dollar Canadian Dollar Japanese Yen
222246 222491
BUY(Rs)
SELL(Rs)
61.58 96.25 7.92 52.52 47.10 54.35 52.00
62.02 97.34 8.01 53.28 47.66 55.01 52.64
Euro
76.23
77.04
Danish Krone
10.23
10.36
Norwegian Krone New Zealand Dollar Swedish Krona
9.03
9.13
47.82
48.55
8.25
8.34
LOCAL
The Morung Express
Honour full implementation of 16 point agreement: Surviving IBMs appeal to GOI Our Correspondent Kohima | November 29
T. Kikon, on behalf of the surviving ex-Interim Body Members (IBMs), made an appeal today to the Government of India to honour the ‘full implementation’ of the 16 point agreement as it is. “This will ensure that the welfare of the Naga people is well safeguarded in the Constitution of India even in the years to come,” said Kikon while gracing the golden jubilee celebration of Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) here today. “We tried to fulfill all the clauses in the 16 point agreement but unfortunately we could not do so,” he said, adding that it is now for the young leaders to pursue what we could not fulfill.
“Let us not forget that Nagaland became a full fledged State after much bloodshed. Let us continue to encourage and work for the State which I believe will stand as a shining star in the global world of today.” He said the 16 point agreement led to the formation of the de-facto legislative assembly comprising of 42 interim body members, who were chosen from different tribes and entrusted with preparing the necessary ground works for a full fledge statehood. “The Interim Body Members served their purpose from 1961 to 1963, out of which only seven of us are living today,” he said. Kikon said the IBMs sacrificed the best years of their youthful lives for the formation of the State of Nagaland.
He said Nagaland was created as the 16th State in the Union of India on December 1, 1963. The de-facto legislative assembly was dissolved on November 30, 1963, making way for the first general elections in 1964, through democratic process within the secular, democratic Republic of India. “It is indeed a great milestone to have availed the 16 point agreement, incorporated into the Indian constitution amendment Act of 1963, in which Article 371-A was written for the complete and wholesome welfare of the Naga people,” he said. Meanwhile, Kikon wished the officials of Nagaland Legislative Assembly secretariat to keep up the good works and prestige of the State assembly.
AME-Nagaland postpone agitation KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Association of Mechanical Engineers (AME) Nagaland has postponed the proposed sitin protest which was scheduled on December 1 “on account of the visit of the Prime Minister.” A press note from the AME-Nagaland had proposed the sit-in protest against the lack of response from the Government of Nagaland regarding the implementation of Engineering Service Rule (ESR) in the re-
cruitment of AMEs and JEs in PWD (Mechanical). “While the Governor has expressed solidarity with AME, he has assured to see through the matter and has referred the case to the concern Minister, which is still pending,” said the AME-Nagaland. Hardly 26% of Asst. Mechanical Engineers and 7% of Junior Engineers are recruited through NPSC against a total of 60% and 90% respectively as per Engineering Service Rule, reminded the
AME-Nagaland. The Association has demanded the immediate implementation of ESR by sending requisition to NPSC for the two Asst. Mechanical Engineer posts currently lying vacant and nine JE posts currently appointed on contract basis. Censuring the state government for its silence, AME- Nagaland has appealed for the authorities to look into the matter “before the Association resort to other means for their rights.”
9 villages resolve to stand united on Taxation DIMApuR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): Nine villages in Dimapur have resolved to “unitedly stand on the public voice of one Government, one Tax.” In that, they have resolved to “abide by” the directive/ order issued by the Dimapur District Administration dated May 31, 2013 “not to collect/pay tax on behalf of the NPGs nor it shall permit any individual/party/ group/faction to collect tax within the 9 Villages.” The nine villages include Signal Angami Vil-
lage, Thahekhu Village, Indisen Village, Rilan Village, Aoyimkum Village, Kacharigaon (Phevima) Village, Kashiram Village, Sangtamtilla Village and Senjum Village. The press release, jointly issued by the chairmen and GBs from the nine villages, informed that an emergency meeting was held at Indisen Village Panchayat Hall on November 28, 2014 on the directive issued from the NSCN (IM) under UT-I for payment of census-cum-
house tax for the year 2014 to be paid on or before December 6, 2014. The issue was shared and discussed by the various Village Chairmen, GBs and elders present. They resolved to “stand firm on one government one tax and also to abide to the resolution published on 24th March 2014.” They also decided to “fully support the DUCCCF stand on the tax issue” and stated that they “shall not tolerate any form of threat to any of its members or Villagers.”
Sunday 30 November 2014
Dimapur
5
Uphold the institution of democracy: Governor exhorts NLA Members CM calls NLA members to discharge duties as sentinels of democracy Our Correspondent Kohima | November 29
Nagaland’s governor P.B. Acharya today said that Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) should uphold the institution of democracy. He said effective legislation need to me made to address various issues that hamper the economic growth of the state. “The legislatures are expected to address the issues so as to ease the implementation of socio-economic developmental programmes in a transparent manner with a time-frame for better results,” Acharya said while addressing the 50 years anniversary of Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) here today. Governor also congratulated the members of the past and present NLA for their invaluable contributions. He expressed happiness that among the few living ex-interim body members, the former chief minister of the state Dr. S.C. Jamir has become the Governor so also Late Hokishe Sema.
The state has shown incredible achievements in different fields such as in judiciary, civil service, sports and music, he said adding that the credit for all such achievements goes to the social and political leadership of the state. He also stated that as representatives of the people, it is expected that the members will endeavour for bringing lasting peace in the state. “We also need to ensure the highest standards of governance, keeping in view the interest of the people in mind, in which the interests of the poor should be supreme. This is essential for the growth and prosperity of our state, a state which had tremendous potential,” said Acharya Expressing confident that the NLA will strive to uphold the dignity of the House, he hoped that the assembly can be a model in building a strong and vibrant India. Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang said through 50 years of existence, the MLA has done commendably well in fulfilling its various func-
tions and responsibilities. The Assembly has been actively performing its role in making new laws in exercise of the powers given to the state assembly under Article 371 (A) of the Constitution of India as well as in adopting many laws of the central government. “This hose also has passed resolutions on four occasions for the integration of all contiguous Naga inhabited areas under one administrative umbrella. Apt from adoption of Nagaland Petroleum & Natural Gas Rules and regulations, 2012,” he said adding that the state assembly has, besides, passed several resolutions urging the Government of India and the Naga nationalist groups to expedite resolution of the issue. He also informed that the state assembly is also now on the process of reconstituting the Joint Legislature Forum (JLF) on the Naga political issue under the leadership of present speaker Chotisuh Sazo. “One of the most notable and appreciable qualities about the Nagaland Legislative Assembly has
been the decorum steadfastly maintained inside the House during all these past 50 years,” Zeliang. He called upon the members of the 12th House to rededicate themselves to the cause of democracy, and be more active in discharging their duties as sentinels of democracy, as a leaders of the society and the people they represent. He also urged all legislators to have visions and dreams for the people, and to take on the leadership towards realization of these visions and dreams through enactment of new and progressive laws to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio said Nagaland is a political state as it was formed out of a political agreement, namely the 16 points agreement. “This political agreement resulted in the establishment of democratic institutions, beginning with the NLA. Ever since, this House has been at the core of the state in every aspect,” Rio said. In fifty years, he said the
NLA has built up a proud history and a rich heritage, adding that it has withstood all challenges and emerged victorious time and again. It has produced some of the most prominent and capable sons of our soil. The House has been a home for democracy to take root and bloom into an institution which the whole country can be proud of. Rio said NLA is acknowledged as a disciplined pillar of democracy, adding that the decorum and discipline of the House, the mutual respect of all members for each other cutting across party lines, and the conduct of each member on the floor of the House has been exemplary. Stating that much has been done but many are yet to be done, Congress Legislature Party leader Tokheho said it is time for the legislators to rededicate themselves and work hard with a feeling of oneness and unity. As we celebrate 50 years of NLA, he said, let us strengthen and uplift the people to a bright future.
DTIA denies corruption in wagon allocations DIMApuR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Dimapur Timber Industries Association (DTIA) today has clarified today that the question of alleged corruption in wagon does not arise as quarterly allotment of wagons are done by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), working under the Central Empowered Committee under the directive of the Supreme Court. In a press rejoinder to the accusation made by Nagaland Timber Traders' Union (NTTU), the president of DTIA, Azheto ZhiLok Sabha Speaker, Sumitra Mahajan going through the Photo Exhibition organised in commemoration of 50 years of Nagaland Legislative Assembly on November 29. (DIPR) momi asserted the allega-
tion of Forest Minister does not carry any weight since the wagons are allotted by the SIT to genuine traders as “per rules and regulation” of the forest act.” “Allotment of wagon for moulding is done to the unit registered with the department and each unit having finished product, is given wagons,” stated the rejoinder. It further maintained that wagons are allotted only to registered tree farmers under Nagaland Tree Farming Act and the record are sent quarterly to the SIT.
Maintian peaceful atmoshpere: AYO NSCN (I-M) condoles Traffic regulations for PM Modi's visit KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): With the onset of festive season, particularly the Hornbill Festival, the Angami Youth Organisation (AYO), has impressed upon the people not to breach the peaceful atmosphere prevailing in the capital. AYO president, Medo Yhokha and vice president, Kekhrievolie Keyho in a press statement cautioned that it will be compelled to initiate disciplinary actions against people disturbing the public security and safety; and creating public disorder and violence during the festive period. Reiterating the organ-
isation's standing resolution against factional killings and shootout at public areas, AYO further urged upon the NPGs based at Kohima to maintain discipline and order within their cadres. “AYO will tolerate no violent actions in public places from the NPGs and the cadres must desist totally from all forms of offensive activities/actions that will create bad impressions of our Naga society”, it added. The organisation further extended its fullest support and cooperation to the initiative and effort of the Kohima Police to control drunken driving during the festive season.
DoSE clarifies on CareerCliniq KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Directorate of School Education (DoSE), Kohima today has clarified to all schools and parents that the directorate has not made any recommendation for using CareerCliniq study materials in schools. However, the schools are free to “try out” the study materials, if they “deem fit” to do so, informed a press note from DoSE director, Zaveyi Nyekha.
Hornbill Festival to be Telecast Live KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 29 (DIpR): News Time Assam shall telecast live in inaugural function and subsequent days of the Hornbill Festival 2014. The inaugural function will be graced by the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi December 1 at Kisama Village from 10 a.m. News Time Assam is available on Tata Sky channel No. 995, Dish TV channel 783, ACC channel 006 and Airtel channel No. 619.
The Watchman decries assault DIMApuR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Watchman team has condemned the recent “murder attempt” on Kughalu Chophy by four alleged “Illegal Bangladeshi Immigrants (IBIs)” in Dimapur. A press statement from The Watchman president, Pastor James Ngullie stated, “We stand with Survival Nagaland Group that IBIs should not be given any valid documents as they are not citizens of the country.” It further urged the Ministry of Home Affairs, Home Commissioner, DC and the Police to get their act together and do their “rightful duty” of keeping out illegal immigrants. "It is time for youth groups and student bodies to 'wake up and get organised' before the sheer number of IBIs overpower Nagas and threaten our religious freedom”, added the press statement.
DIMApuR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The NSCN (I-M) has expressed its shock to learn the demise of Y Wungkhai of Khamasom Village (WTR), who was “brutally murdered” by unknown criminal at his residence in Ukhrul. A press note from MIPNSCN/GPRN stated that, Late Wungkhai was former CAO of Wung Tangkhul Region and had served in various other capacities and
he was an elected Tatar at the time of his death. “We are determined that whosoever, wherever the culprits may be and no matter how long will it take to unearth the culprits, we will hunt down and give justice to our deceased comrade,” the press note maintained. The NSCN (I-M) also conveyed its heartfelt condolences and prayers of solace to the bereaved family.
AKTD holds 'Excellence Award' Morung Express News Dimapur | November 29
The Ao Students Union Dimapur (AKTD) handed out awards to meritorious students from the community at its 11th Excellence Award held on November 29. Coinciding with the 42nd general session of the AKTD, the programme was held at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, DC Court area. Nine HSSLC and thirteen HSLC toppers were awarded with cash and certificates of appreciation from the AKTD. Former Chief Secretary to the Nagaland government, Alemtemshi Jamir, graced the occasion as the chief guest. DIGP (Range), Dimapur, Limasunep Jamir, was the guest of honour. Jamir, in his address, dwelled on the elements that enable one to achieve excellence. Going by the present condition of Nagaland, both economically and politically, he posed: “In the midst of such a situation, what are the ingredients to excel?” Understanding and a clear vision to do well, he said are the primary ingredients to
achieve excellence, while stating that with understanding and vision, there will be decision. However, he added that it has to be accompanied by determination, perseverance and hard work. “When we talk of excellence, we must be aware of the ingredients that push one to excel.” Stating that the requisite qualities come from within, he said: “Everybody will tell you to work hard but it is within you that which will decide (your future).” And with information technology touching almost every aspect of life today, he said that it has enabled the world to become a level playing field irrespective of topographical or economic disparity. Guest of honour, Limasunep Jamir, emphasised on the importance of developing an intuitive mind. “The real education is the process of self-discovery… that is how your intuition develops,” he said. While stating that the knowledge one has is limited, he added that what one do not know is a huge expanse that “we have to explore.”
DIMApuR, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): Dimapur Police today informed of various traffic regulations for the Prime Minister’s visit to Nagaland state. A press note from the PRO, Dimapur Police, informed that the route from Dimapur airport to VVIP Gate, Police Complex, Chumukedima shall be closed to vehicular traffic 30 minutes prior to VVIP motorcade movement on November 30 and December 1. All vehicular movements in the by-lanes leading to the above mentioned route shall be closed/ stopped at a distance 100 feet from the VVIP route 30 minutes prior to VVIP carcade movement on the said dates. Only vehicles of the
security personnel on duty, dignitaries receiving the VVIP, and party functionaries with Car Pass shall be permitted to ply along the mentioned route during the timings when vehicular movement is closed to normal traffic. The police further informed that all auto stands along the VVIP route shall be shifted to areas away from the said route. For public convenience, they will be allowed to ply along the route before the movement of the VVIP but shall not be permitted to park except to stop for picking up/ dropping passengers. No vehicles except those with Car Pass shall be allowed to enter the Airport area from NEZCC junction (Half KM from Air-
port) one hour ahead of the VVIP movement. Dimapur Police also informed that car Passes will be allotted in the Z, Y and Z categories for the Prime Minister’s visit to the state. X category passes will be permitted entry only at Central Police Officers’ Mess. The dignitaries with this car pass will enter the Central Police Officers’ Mess through RP Gate No. 1 and wait in the halting area arranged outside the DIG(Trg&Bdr) area where the visitors shall be ferried to Police house by ferry vehicles as arranged. Y category passes will be allowed entry at Dimapur Airport. Whereas, Z category passes will have full access
both at Dimapur Airport and Central Police Officers’ Mess. However, only the car of the Governor and the Chief Minister will be permitted entry through VVIP Gate in to Police Complex. The pilot/ escort vehicles of the Governor and the Chief Minister will peel off at the junction above the Central Police Officers’ Mess and be parked at the Hockey ground. The other dignitaries with the same car pass will enter the Central Police Officers’ Mess through RP Gate No. 1 and will wait in the halting area arranged outside the DIG(Trg&Bdr) area where the visitors shall be ferried to Police house by ferry vehicles as arranged.
‘Gloria Patri’ concludes in a joyous note in Mokokchung
Young people singing along with the Gloria Patri worship team on the concluding night of the event
Tali Angh performing a song from his debut album 'Take It Slow' on the concluding night of Gloria Patri at Town Hall, Mokokchung on Saturday, November 29.
MOKOKcHuNg, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The 2-day worship event “Gloria Patri” concluded here this evening at Town Hall, Mokokchung with high note, including a scintillating performance
aging number of volunteers, gathered to clean up the local ground of the town. Gloria Patri' (Glory be to the Father) is a worship event, which was first held in Dimapur earlier this year. And the event contin-
from well-known singersongwriter Tali Angh, who regalled the crowd with a song from his newly-released album 'Take It Slow'. On the morning of the 2nd day, the Gloria Patri team, along with an encour-
ues to make an impact in the lives of young people, with testimonies received from hundreds of young people of how the Lord has blessed and changed their lives after attending the event.
Sunday 30 november 2014
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THE MORUNG EXPRESS
if you Keep texting, your Head Will fall off Countering the claim that texting is ruining spines James Hamblin
"I
t is an epidemic. Or, at least, it's very common," New York-based spine surgeon Kenneth Hansraj told The Washington Post last week. He was referring to something that is being called "text neck," a purported condition of the spine related to the posture of bending forward to look at a phone. Hansraj's comments came in wake of a short article on the matter that he published in an obscure medical journal called Surgical Technology International. Last week my colleague Olga Khazan mentioned the paper in a brief post for our site that included Hansraj's diagram of how flexing your neck increases stress on your cervical spine. It was an interesting account of the suggestions of one private-practice neurosurgeon. But the post and the illustration spread widely around the Internet, and the stakes elevated quickly. In the past week, the study and the diagram have been published by hundreds of outlets, including The Chicago Tribune, Slate, NPR, Business Insider, The Sydney Morning Herald, NBC News, The Globe and Mail, Today, Time, Yahoo,Shape, BuzzFeed, The Huffington Post, and many others. New York's headline, for example, was "Look at How Texting Is Warping Your Spine." At several publications, the story was the most popular post on the site. With claims of epidemic and implications of serious spinal damage, the story has elevated to something that maybe warrants a closer look. Hunching over isn't ideal, and it's worth thinking about sitting or standing up straight when possible. But our necks are made to bend forward, and it's not something that's new to humans. Texting invokes the same posture as holding a book. Physicists and engineers have taken to blogs and comments to argue over the accuracy of Hansraj's calculations. But whatever the exact numbers (we used Hansraj's in our illustrations here), it is true that there's more force on the base of the cervical spine when the head is bent forward. And the farther forward a person bends his head to look at their phone, the more force that puts onto spine. That's all true. The question is whether that matters, and if so, how much. One of the people who tweeted in discontent was Ian Dorward, a neurosurgeon at Washington University in Saint Louis. He rebuked The Washington Postthusly: I talked with Dorward for his counterperspective on last week's textneck mania. Being a neurosurgeon, he not only knows a lot about spinal anatomy and biomechanics, but he also spends as much of his day bent forward over people's exposed spinal cords as even the most angsty of Instagram-mongering tweens do over their text machines. "To say that there's this epidemic of 'text neck' is totally unfounded," Dorward said. "All he [Hansraj] has is a computer model, and he doesn't even spell out where these numbers are coming from." The reality is that an axial load, one applied from the top down onto the spine, at the weights in question is not dangerous. "People can carry a lot more than 60 pounds on top of their head if it's actually an axial load," Dorward said, noting that people have evolved to have their
“I
nvestigator maintained visual contact of the subject.” I became a private investigator in the 80s. When I started out, I had a pair of binoculars and a 35mm Pentax SLR with a zoom lens. I sat in the back of my surveillance vehicle with no connection to the outside world. No cellphone. No Internet. There was nothing to do except watch, listen to the radio, and think. I thought about what would happen if someone needed to reach me. I was a single mother with two young sons. I thought about the person I was investigating. Were they really doing whatever it was someone else was willing to pay a large sum of money to catch them doing? Were they exaggerating or faking an injury from a car accident, cheating on their spouse, or skipping work while they had been on a bender? What if they truly were criminals who had stolen product from a transport truck? Every morning, while most people were still sleeping, I left my children with the babysitter and drove to a different part of the city, a suburb, or out of town. From outside my subject’s houses, I watched as lights came on and people got ready to start their day. I made it through days so hot you wouldn’t leave a dog in your car, and so cold that frost formed on the windows as I shivered in my down parka. If a subject lived in an apartment building, I got someone to let me in and hung out in the stairwell or hallway. I usually knew if the subject had a car because I had access to vehicle registration information. If there was no activity after four hours, I drove to a phone booth and used a pretext to find out if the subject was home and if they were going out. This was also a good time to relieve myself, or get a coffee. For 27 years, I worked as a private investigator. In that time, I went from long stakeouts in vans to rummaging through my subject’s digital information. Eventually, I had to quit. I got my first cellphone as soon as I could afford one, in 1986. The Motorola DynaTAC (nicknamed “the brick” by users) cost a few thousand dollars and the phone bill was, on average, $500 a month, but it connected me with the world. It gave me peace of mind, because my children could reach me. But what technology giveth it also taketh away. Now that I could call from the van, I had no excuse to leave my post. There went my bathroom and coffee break. I had to use something much less technologically advanced: a female urinary collection device. In 1987, I got a pager and a monster VHS video camera. Then, the camera that weighed heavily on my shoulder was replaced by a Sony Handicam. I could videotape from farther away, even at night. I had pinholes cameras that I could wear on my lapel or put in my purse. All this made life safer for me, because there was less likelihood of being caught. I could watch from further and further away. I shadowed people. Most of them had routine lives that revolve around work, home, socializing, and shopping. Their routines became mine. If the subject went shopping for plastic bins at Walmart, I also looked at plastic bins and caught them on camera. If they went to a bar, so did I. In church, I prayed that they wouldn’t discover that I was an outsider. I watched people get married. I brought flowers to hospital rooms. I invaded and inspected lives and dissected them in my report accompanied by visual evidence. I drew the line at going to funerals. Most of the work of private investigators is investigating insurance claims that an adjuster suspects are
Or a rock.
Or a baby. heads flexed in a variety of different angles and postures without issue. "If you apply external weight to the head and then flex it forward, that would be a real issue," he continued. "Certainly if you spend an inordinate amount of time leaning forward, it can cause musculoskeletal problems like exacerbating arthritis." When he's huddled over a surgical field in the operating room, Dorward wears loupes and a head lamp. The weight of those devices combines with the weight of his cranium to significantly increase torque on his spine. "The stresses that I'm applying to my spine are vastly greater than what someone would be experiencing when they're texting," he said. And that is, for someone in his line of work, a legitimate concern. For most people, though, the point remains that good posture is generally good when possible, but texting is not an imminent threat to spinal health.
In his paper Hansraj goes on to talk about power posing, how posture and assuming certain stances seems to affect a person's hormonal milieu. Research has shown that assuming "high-power" postures—sitting up straight and throwing your shoulders back and aligning your ears over your shoulders—can lead to very real elevations in testosterone, serotonin, and tolerance for risk taking. That's cool stuff to consider, but a separate issue from the hypothetical scourge of text neck. "People are walking around now while texting, falling into water fountains and lakes and walking into traffic—that's a real danger," Dorward added. The more important idea that has been studied with regard to biomechanical forces on the spine is related to the American "epidemic" of obesity. As a person gains weight, their center of gravity moves forward, and that can drastically increase force on a person's lumbar spine. "That's a real problem for spine disease," Dorward said. "Looking down at your phone is really not."
Confessions of a Private eye In the beginning of my career, surveillance meant staking out subjects's houses in a van; by the end, it meant simply searching on Google or Facebook. Pamela Stewart
fraudulent. How they decide to suspect people I don’t know. I’d guess the adjusters decide this through some kind combination of personal bias and data. Many of my subjects were people of color or new immigrants or lived in social housing. Some of them were scamming, to be sure, but so were the people in the middle or upper class I observed. I witnessed movie-like scenes where a person comes out of their doctor’s appointment and doffs their cervical collar, or stops using their cane when they think no one is watching. Sometimes there was nothing to find. I wondered if I had missed something, or compromised a person’s privacy without reason. I wondered which was worse. While watching the subject, I was also capturing their friends, family, and neighbors on video. My superiors, colleagues, and the clients wrote that off as collateral damage in the search for truth or justice. No one ever suspected that the ordinary woman knocking on their apartment door asking them to sign a petition was trying to get an ID from their signature and videotaping them with a hidden camera. When I spoke to them, they became a person. We chatted about
the weather. I could smell the food they were cooking wafting out the door or see that they were watching The Young and the Restless which I was going to watch when I was finished spying on them. After 16 years of sitting scrunched up in a car or van for hours, I transitioned to a different side of investigations, gathering a different kind of information. I conducted discreet or open inquiries, located missing people, and conducted background checks on individuals or due diligence investigations on corporations. I spent a lot of my time scrolling through microfiches at public libraries and government offices. I followed paper trails. Before the Internet, call display, encryption, and passwords, I gathered information over the phone through social engineering and pretexts. I found out how much a person had in the bank and how much they owed to creditors, where they worked and how much they made. Most people are too trusting and plenty are lonely. If you sound interested, they will talk. If you sound confused, they will try to help you out by providing information. I used the anonymity of the phone to my advantage. When call display started making my life
difficult, I discovered spoof calling, which provided the ability to input any number onto call display. It made my pretextseven more effective when I was calling from XYZ Courier, or any fake company I could imagine. Every technological advance that made it easier for me to do my job made me deliriously happy, like the day that I first accessed the Internet and discovered AltaVista. When Google came into being, I whispered that word like it was a lover’s name. Google, oh, Google. It was my mantra. New digital gifts were coming my way all the time. And the Holy Grail wasFacebook. My joy was off the charts. I was a young guy with an interest in vintage muscle cars. I was an older woman with a lot of cats. I was anyone I thought the subject would want to be friends with on my fake profiles. Selfies and the sousveillance culture was a boon to our industry. The subjects’s own information was doing them in. Google Maps! A bird’s eye view of the subject’s house. Google Street View—I was standing outside their home without even being there and while I was doing that, a copy of their land registry and mortgage was coming through my computer. But as easy as it had all become, it wasn’t rewarding. It was never rewarding. I didn’t like spying on people. Many of the investigators I worked with had a hunter mentality. It’s easier to view someone as a target when you can’t relate to them. I wanted to see the subject as human and to know who they were and why they lived the way they did. But most of all, I wanted to do something else. I wanted to be a writer. In January 2011, I hung up my hat and my trench coat to focus on my true passion. I don’t write detective fiction, although this is the first question everyone asks me. Of course, technology has continued to change spying. I talked to a few friends in the industry this week and asked if they were considering using drones. They are excited about the possibility. Legislation doesn’t keep pace with technology, so there are grey areas in that blue sky. A private investigator cannot observe you in any place you have a reasonable expectation of privacy, but that doesn’t mean they won’t try. Years ago, a colleague followed a subject to a nudist colony and got video of the subject and others playing volleyball. Everyone in the office watched that video. And the march of technology has also brought it into the hands of people who aren’t professional investigators. People can purchase GPS trackers and put tiny cameras inside teddy bears. You can put layers of surveillance between you and your babysitter, your wife, or the delivery person who is captured on your CCTV system. You can install a keystroke logger on your computer to see if your partner is sending love letters to someone else. I know because I did that. Yes, he was. Most of the people who do this work don’t care about you or your privacy. Most of the people being surveilled don’t know how to protect their personal information. And most of investigating bodies don’t care. You are just data. And even if you are doing nothing wrong, you’re just collateral damage in the search for the “truth.” I want to say I am done. I helped many people get the information they needed to make decisions about their lives or their businesses, but in doing so I devalued myself. While focusing my camera on others, I blurred my own definition of right and wrong. I was a licensed liar and a snoop. It’s a judgmental, and soul-destroying world. From now on, I’ll stick to reading Raymond Chandler and sign off with the words I used in every investigation report: “Surveillance discontinued."
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.
FAITH LEAF
SunDAY
THE MORUNG EXPRESS 30 November 2014
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INSPIRATIONAL STORIES, MESSAGES, POEMS & SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCES
A SHORT DESCRIPTION What kids need to know about sin ABOUT ANGELS W Sam Luce
Selie Visa
First Story: The story is told of a colporteur (a Bible salesman) who used to travel from village to village in remote regions selling Bibles to the villagers. Unknown to him, a robber used to follow him looking for an opportunity to rob him. But for some strange reason, the robber eventually gave up the idea of robbing him. One day the robber approached the colporteur. The robber appeared to be hesitant and frightened. Finally he garnered some courage and asked the colporteur, "What things do you sell in the villages? Are they very expensive materials?" The colporteur replied, "I don't have any expensive things with me. I only sell Bibles to the villagers." The robber was taken aback on hearing this. He was visibly surprised and asked, "Then why do you take along those armed bodyguards everywhere you go?" Second Story: A missionary couple went to the New Hebrides Islands to preach the good news. A few days after landing there, they learned that the native inhabitants of the island were all cannibals. However they decided to stay on. One day they were surrounded by the cannibals. The couple knew that they have no chance of escaping from them. They thought it was the end for them. All they could do was kneel down and pray. The cannibals came closer and closer. But suddenly they all ran off in different directions. The missionary husband and wife have no idea why they ran away in such haste. But they were thankful to be alive. This happened several times. The natives of the island would surround them and then each time they would ran away. Several years later all the inhabitants of the island were converted. They became Christians and gave up cannibalism. They became good friends with the missionary couple. The chief and others would visit the couple almost every day. One day while chatting with the couple, the chief said, "Where are all your soldiers? I don't see them anymore." The husband replied, "We don't have any soldiers. Only I and my wife came here." The chief was astonished by the reply. He said, "But we saw many huge, tall and well-armed soldiers when we came to capture you. We ran away in fear because of those soldiers!" Third Story: To share his faith, Sadhu Sundar Singh traveled throughout the towns and villages of India, and beyond into the dangerous mountain regions of Tibet. The most remarkable instance of angelic succor and deliverance that he related happened when he had reached a town in Tibet called Rasa. Here he was arrested for having entered the country to preach a foreign religion. He was brought before the head Lama who passed sentence on him--- a sentence that amounted to death. But the Tibetan religion forbidding them to take life, they had conceived two ways of leaving a culprit to die without actually killing him. One way was to sew him up in wet yak skins, then leaving him in the sun, which caused the yak skins to shrink, crushing him. The other was to cast him into a dry well, cover over the top and leave him there. In either case, there was no taking of life by human hands, since the forces that caused the yak skins to shrink or the body in the well to die through hunger and thirst were not under their control, so they were innocent. The method chosen in Sundar Singh’s case was to cast him into the well. He was hustled there, the iron cover unlocked and removed, and he was pushed over the edge, down into a pit so foul that his very soul recoiled. The bottom of it was covered with bones and rotting flesh of dead men and the stench was almost overwhelming. Then what little light had penetrated was shut out as the cover of the well was put in place and lockedup. He was left in darkness of the reeking well. It was far worse than anything he had ever experienced before. No one had accompanied him on this trip; he was in a country where he was unknown, and he realized that humanly speaking
I
wrote a magazine story several months ago about why I love the church. While space doesn’t permit me to reproduce the full text here, I think it is worth offering a condensed version to remind every church leader of the need to project love and admiration for Christ’s bride in spite of its faults. The thing that touched off my musings: a prominent ad for a new church plant reading: “Church doesn’t have to suck! Happy hour service this Sunday at 10:30 a.m.” Some might smile at that trendy message, but its not-so-subtle implication is that most churches are boring and ineffective. Frankly, I’m tired of people bashing the church. I’m not referring to the world’s ridicule of the church; that’s to be expected. I’m referring to the criticism of the church from within. Scorning Christ’s bride Popular Christian authors, convention speakers, parachurch leaders and “cuttingedge” preachers frequently heap scorn on Jesus’ bride. They accuse her of irrelevance, indifference, legalism, intolerance and judgmentalism … the indictments go on and on. I sometimes get the impression
sengers. They are ministering spirits. They obey the will of God and execute the purposes of God. They worship God and Christ. They celebrate the praises of God. The angel Gabriel appeared to Daniel. Gabriel also appeared to Mary and announced the conception of Christ. Angels proclaimed the birth of Christ to the shepherds. They appeared at the resurrection and the ascension of Christ and announced the Second Coming of Christ. The archangel is Michael. In the high order of angels he is the ruling angel. Gabriel is another high ranking angel. There are guardian angels too to protect and deliver those who fear God. “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” (Psalm 34:7) Cherubim are a classification or order of heavenly beings or winged angels. Symbolic figures of golden cherubim decorate the tabernacle. The Ark also rested beneath the wings of cherubim. Seraphim are also an order of angels in the celestial hierarchy. They are the 6-winged angels standing and singing in the presence of God Like Michael and Gabriel, Satan was a high ranking angel. He was perfect, full of wisdom and blameless (Ezekiel 28:11-15). But he was ambitious and rebelled against God (Isaiah 14:12-15 and Jude 6). There was unity among angels. But war broke out due to Satan's rebellion. Satan and his followers were defeated and cast out from heaven (Revelation 12:7-9 and 2 Peter 2:4). Don't worship angels because they are created beings too. John committed this mistake. We are to worship only God. I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had been showing them to me. But he said to me, "Do not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers, the prophets and of all who keep the words of this book. Worship God!" (Revelation 22:8-9) Wishing all the readers a joyful and blessed First Advent Sunday of 2014.I pray that the love, peace and grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be with every one of youthroughout this Christmas season and all the Angels are biblical and real: Angels are real. God uses them as his mes- days of your lives. his situation was hopeless. There was no possibility of help from any human source, and this time the inner joy he had known in times of persecution was missing. “My God, my God…. why have you forsaken me?”. The words of Jesus on the Cross came to mind but without the comfort of conscious fellowship. Why, oh why had God brought him to this place of horror and left him there? Hours passed--- how many he had no means of knowing. His arm had been sprained as he was cast into the well, but the physical pain was as nothing compared with the anguish of his soul. In relating the story ears later, he said he was in that well for two days and nights, and on the third night, he heard a sound above. The cover of the well was being removed and then a rope was let down and a voice told him to take hold of it. Summoning what strength remained in him; he slipped the noose under his arms and was slowly drawn up. Reaching the surface he sank on the ground, conscious, only that he was gulping in fresh air at last. Weak as he was from hunger and thirst, his body craved air more than anything else. As he breathed it in, he felt himself strangely revived and the pain in his wrenched arm had gone. Drained though he was, he looked around to thank his unexpected rescuer. But he was alone. There was no sign of his rescuer. The following day, back in the village, news reached the head Lama that the Sadhu who had been thrown down the well was out again preaching. Again, Sundar Singh was brought before the head Lama. How had he escaped, the head Lama demanded to know, but all Sundar Singh could tell him was what had happened, and that he had seen no one. Furiously the Lama asserted that someone must have stolen the key to the well and ordered that a search be made for it. No one was more taken aback than he was when it was eventually found on his own belt. This was very alarming. Some superior power was evidently at work, and the head Lama did not like it. It was something he could not combat. He gave no further order for Sundar Singh to be arrested, but told him to leave the district immediately. Sundar Singh felt he had no option but to comply and left.
here did sin come from and why do I sin? The biblical account of the fall is found in Genesis chapter 3. The understanding of the fall, its causes and its far-reaching effects are essential for parents and their children alike to full understand. It is by understanding the nature and the cause of the fall that we are able to see the need for redemption and ultimately restoration. We do our kids a massive disservice when we minimize the nature of sin. It is only through a clear understanding of sin that we see ourselves as we truly are—and are then able to see Christ as He is. John Newton, the former slave ship captain and later famous hymn writer who wrote “Amazing Grace” on his deathbed, said in such captivating form, “I don’t remember much, but I do know that I am a great sinner, but I have a great savior.” This is what our kids need to understand when they ask about the origins of sin. The problem of sin is not new, nor is it limited to our first parents. Sin is pervasive, sin is destructive and sin affects all of us. The goal of painting our sin in such dire terms is not to bring on despair—actually the opposite. It is to bring us to a place of hopelessness in our sin, and only when we see the despair of sin can we truly appreciate the power of the gospel message of hope. Part of the problem with kids who grow up in Christian homes is they hear the Good News of the gospel preached but they don’t fully appreciate its message. It’s not good news for them. It’s news that they perhaps can give to others someday. I am a fifth-generation preacher’s kid; I grew up hearing the Good News. I applied the truth of the Bible to my life without fully grasping my daily need for grace. I didn’t see my sins as worthy to send me to hell; they were “struggles” I had. People who didn’t come to church, people who did “real” sins, needed the gospel—which is very true. But I didn’t really get it until I came to a further understanding of resurrecting grace: that I am a sinner born into sin, and my heart is not good but is inclined towards sin. I find no matter how hard I try, my heart wanders. Hebrews tells us that sin came into the world through one man— Adam—and was completely defeated through one man—Jesus. Paul in his letter to the Ephesians tells us this about ourselves: “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else” (Ephesians 2:1-3 NLT). Here’s what is amazing about this passage of Scripture: Paul says we were dead in our sins. Dead people can’t save themselves. Dead people can’t do anything. When God sent Jesus in the world to live the perfect life we could never live, he stepped toward us. Through the grace of his resurrection, he gave us hope. No one can avoid sin any more than they can avoid death. OK, our kids need to be good kids, and we need to raise good citizens for society, but we also need to help them see their need for a savior. Dead Men Don’t Tell Growing up in the Midwest, you become very aware of both life and death. I remember the first time I saw a cow give birth … and the first
I Love the Church! these leaders love people in the world and despise people in the church. One best-selling author claims he experienced more genuine fellowship in a commune than a church. Now he travels the country apologizing for the church’s past offenses. A new music director in a traditional church informed his choir they would no longer be wearing robes. He insisted the choir members needed to repent for allowing their contrived apparel to be such a barrier to the honest seeker. Really? Of course, some criticism is valid, because the church is made up of imperfect people like you and me. But that’s always been true. The first church in Jerusalem refused to accept the newly converted Paul. Judaizers undermined sound doctrine in churches this apostle planted. The seven churches listed in Revelation were lukewarm and prideful.
Bob Russell
sist desperate single mothers? Who consistently teaches the moral values that provide to offer a positive word. If Jesus loved the our ethical foundation? In every case, the church and gave Himself up for her, those answer is: the church. seeking to be like Christ should love the church enough to sacrifice for it and defend Simple humility it when necessary. One reason the church’s impact isn’t apThink about the positive influence of preciated more is that it doesn’t usually toot the church in America. The frontier church its own horn. Following the example of its started 106 of the first 108 colleges in this Founder, the church practices humility. The country. Or look around your communi- media doesn’t often publicize the church’s ty. Who established most of the hospitals positive services—partly because it’s nothwhere you live? Not the Atheists Society. ing new and partly because many in the inMost were founded by Protestant and Cath- dustry despise the church’s values. olic churches. Maybe that’s the way it’s meant to be. The church started and funds most in- The church isn’t supposed to grab the headner-city missions that minister to the addict- lines or public recognition. Jesus said, “You ed and homeless. The church started and are the salt of the earth,” and salt doesn’t get undergirds most orphanages and homes for much credit. No one ever gets up from the table and raves, “That was the best salt I’ve the elderly. Who consistently visits and conducts ever tasted!” No, salt quietly adds flavor and Positive influence worship services in prison? Who establishes enhances the taste of most everything withStill, in response to the critics, I want crisis pregnancy centers and homes to as- out getting much recognition.
time I watched as a dog with rabies was put down. Both have a profound effect on you as a kid. You realize at an earlier age that one day you will die. It’s an advantage country kids have over city kids: You are better in tune with the reality of life and death. Paul takes the first seven chapters of Romans and the first three verses of Ephesians 2 to point out that we are utterly hopeless. It is the realization of our hopelessness that sets up verse 4 in Ephesians: “But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much” that he rescues us. Redeems us. In Romans 3:23, Paul tells us we have all sinned because he is building to Romans 8, which tells us of God’s unending love that nothing can separate us from. It is vital that our kids have an understanding from a young age that they are not “basically good” but “irreparably flawed” and we are incapable of self-salvation. We need God’s grace. This only happens by seeing ourselves as we truly are— great sinners—and Christ as he truly is—a great savior. A Mirror, Not a Window The word of God is vital to our understanding of our sinfulness. We can think we are good people, but the Bible says otherwise. In James 1:23-25 (NLT), James describes the word of God as a mirror: “For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.” The word of God is powerful—it has power, as James says, to show us what we need to do, but it also empowers us to do what it says. It is about Christ, who kept the law perfectly for us. It is important that we use the mirror to see our sinfulness and allow the gospel to transform us so we can reflect the glory and love of God to a world that desperately needs both. We are so easy on ourselves. So often we look harshly at the sins of others while minimizing our own sins. We treat the word of God as a window which we look through to see so many others that need help, forgetting that the word of God is first a mirror to convict us of our need for a savior. To drive this home for kids, write with a pencil something you have trouble with, such as selfishness or anger, on a Post-it note. Have your kids look out a window from a couple of feet away and see if they are able to read what’s on the Postit note. Now have them stand the same distance from a mirror. Explain to your kids that the mirror is like the law, and its purpose is to reveal our sin and our utter helplessness. We desperately need a savior. The law is a means of God’s grace to wake us up from a life of hypocritical law-keeping. Here is the good news in Ephesians 2:4-6 (NLT): “But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.” The good news is that we are saved by grace alone. None of us has anything to claim and only Christ to which to cling. Sam Luce has been the children's pastor at Redeemer Church for over 13 years. A prolific blogger and popular children's conference speaker, Sam has worked in children's ministry for over 23 years and is also a contributing editor to K! magazine.
When I hear someone ridiculing yesterday’s church, I want to protest, “Hey, that’s my parents you’re talking about and they were great Christian people. They tithed. They never missed a church service. They lived out their faith in a genuine, compassionate way “So did many others of that era. I was there. I knew them up close, and they don’t fit the negative stereotype of a hypocritical, judgmental bigot you’re portraying them to be. In fact, I doubt if you’re worthy to untie their shoes!” I want to say that—but I don’t, in part because it would reflect badly on the church. Still, no groom wants to hear his bride ridiculed. I suspect we’re more likely to gainthe Groom’s favor if, instead of criticizing His bride so much, we would love the church and give ourselves up for her. At just twenty-two years of age, Bob became the pastor of Southeast Christian Church. That small congregation of 120 members became one of the largest churches in America, with 18,000 people attending the four worship services every weekend in 2006 when Bob retired. Now through Bob Russell Ministries, Bob continues to preach at churches & conferences throughout the United States, provide guidance for church leadership, mentor other ministers and author Bible study videos for use in small groups.
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.
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Sunday 30 November 2014
The Morung Express
Bhopal’s toxic legacy lives on, 30 years after industrial disaster A girl who suffers from hearing and speech disorders reacts to the camera at a rehabilitation centre supported by Bhopal Medical Appeal, for children who were born with mental and physical disabilities, in Bhopal. (REUTERS)
BHOPAL/NEW DELHI, NOvEmBEr 29 (THOmsON rEuTErs FOuNDATION): Beyond the iron gates of the derelict pesticide plant where one of the world’s worst industrial disasters occurred, administrative buildings lie in ruins, vegetation overgrown and warehouses bolted. Massive vessels, interconnected by a multitude of corroded pipes that once carried chemical slurries, have rusted beyond repair. In the dusty control room, a soiled sticker on a wall panel reads “Safety is ev-
eryone’s business”. On the night of Dec. 2, 1984, the factory owned by the U.S. multinational Union Carbide Corp accidentally leaked cyanide gas into the air, killing thousands of largely poor Indians in Bhopal. Thirty years later, the toxic legacy of this factory lives on, say human rights groups, as thousands of tonnes of hazardous waste remains buried underground, slowly poisoning the drinking water of more than 50,000 people and affecting their health. Activists want this
India to test-launch its heaviest rocket in Dec srIHArIKOTA, NOvEmBEr 29 (IANs): India will test-launch its heaviest and upgraded rocket, the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV Mark III), sometime in the middle of next month, a senior official of the Indian space agency said here on Saturday. The rocket will also carry a crew module to test its re-entry characteristics. “The main purpose of the mission is to test the atmospheric characteristics and stability of the rocket on its way up. We also decided to use this opportunity to test one component of the crew module — a human space mission that India may embark on at a later date,” MYS Prasad, director of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, told reporters here. The experimental mission will cost Rs 155 crore. “This will be India’s new launch vehicle. It is bigger and can carry satellites up to four tonnes,” said S Somanath, project director of GSLV Mark III. According to Prasad, this rocket will not have the critical cryogenic engine for putting four-tonne satellites into orbit. “The cryogenic engine is under development and will take more two years to be ready,” he said. As the other rocket engines are ready, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) decided to have this mission. About the crew module, Prasad said it will not carry any living being and was only for study purposes. He said the 630-tonne rocket will go up to 126km and then crew capsule will be detached and it will fall into the Bay of Bengal, 20 minutes after blast off. The descent speed of the crew module will be controlled by three parachutes, he said. The module will splash down 600km from Port Blair and 1,600km from the space centre. The capsule will be recovered by an Indian Coast Guard or Indian Navy ship. The crew module, looking like a giant-size cup cake — black in colour on top and brown at the bottom - weighs around four tonnes. According to an ISRO official, it will be in the size of a small bedroom and can accommodate 2-3 people.
waste removed and disposed of away from the area, and feel Indian authorities, who now own the site, have fumbled on taking action - either by clearing up the waste itself or in pursuing Union Carbide to take responsibility. “There is a very high prevalence of anemia, delayed menarches in girls and painful skin conditions. But what is most pronounced is the number of children with birth defects,” said activist Satinath Sarangi from the Bhopal Medical Appeal which runs a clinic for gas victims.
into a model where legislation and action can be scrutinised by the public at every stage, even if there is no right to recall of elected representatives,” he said. Mukherjee said that social scientists should critically evaluate country’s successes and failures. “There should be clarity on what is the meaning of development. Does it mean only GDP growth or also include elements such as gross national happiness adopted by Bhutan?” he said. The president, who spoke on ‘Development, Diversity and Democracy’, expressed confidence that India will soon achieve 8-9 percent annual growth and become a three trillion dollar economy. He asked social scientists to identify how growth can be achieved
TOXIC WATER Built in 1969, the Union Carbide plant in Madhya Pradesh was seen as a symbol of a new indus-
since we got to know about his medical problem when was just 4 months old,” said 26-year-old Sufia, sitting on a mat on the floor, cradling her two-year-old son Mustafa who has cerebral palsy. “We had to stop the therapy when he was 8-months-old as it was very expensive. My husband is an electrician and doesn’t earn much. With the centre it is good as it’s free. It’s also good to meet other mothers with their children and realise that I am not alone.” CALL FOR CLEAN-UP The government was forced to recognise the water was contaminated in 2012 when the Supreme Court ordered that clean drinking water be supplied to some 22 communities living around the factory site. “I don’t think there is any doubt now that the waste dumped by Union Carbide is a serious problem and that it needs to be dealt with urgently,” said Sunita Narain, director of the Delhi-based think-tank Centre for Science and Environment. Studies by Narain’s organisation in 2009 found samples taken from around the factory site contained chlorinated benzene compounds and organochlorine pesticides 561 times the national standard. The profile of the chemicals found in samples from within the site matched the
chemicals in drinking water in the outside colonies, said the report, leaving no doubt that there could be no other source of these toxins than Union Carbide. Studies since have confirmed water pollution, but thehazardouswasteremains in pits in some 21 locations within the 68-acre site and buried in a wasteland outside, largely due to wrangles between authorities and activists on its disposal. The United Nations this week welcomed a government decision to reconsider the official figure of people affected by the gas leak, and look into additional compensation, but pressed authorities to get rid of the toxic waste. “New victims of the Bhopal disaster are born every day, and suffer lifelong from adverse health impacts,” said Baskut Tuncak, U.N. Special Rapporteur on human rights and toxic waste. “Without cleaning the contamination, the number of victims of the toxic legacy left by Union Carbide will continue to grow, and, together, India’s financial liability to a rising number of victims,” he added in a statement. Activists want Union Carbide, which was taken over by Dow Chemical Company (DOW.N: Quote, Profile, Research) in 2001, to take the waste out of the country, saying there are no adequate fa-
cilities in India to deal with it. They have also criticised state authorities for not pursuing the corporation for the clean-up. State government officials were not immediately available for comment. Seventeen people living around the plant have filed a petition in the U.S. courts to get the multinational to bear the cost of the clean-up. Dow Chemical Co. has long denied responsibility, saying Union Carbide spent $2 million on remediating the site, adding that Indian authorities at the time approved, monitored and directed every step of the clean-up work. Union Carbide was sued by the Indian government after the disaster and agreed to pay an outof-court settlement of $470 million in damages in 1989. The company says the Indian government then took control of the site in 1998, assuming all accountability, including clean-up activities. “While Union Carbide continues to have the utmost respect and sympathy for the victims, we find that many of the issues being discussed today have already been resolved and responsibilities assigned for those that remain,” Tomm F. Sprick, Director of Union Carbide Information Center, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in an email.
(Empowering New Generations to Advance Girls’ Education), to bring Girl Rising to India. As Indian sensibilities are different, the campaign has been tweaked a little bit. The film highlights the stories of nine girls, striving against difficult circumstance to achieve their
dreams. “The campaign will be partner-led. Our partner will tell what will work in India and how to go about it,” Holly said. The official announcement was made at an event held in American Center, hosted by Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Kathleen Stephens later in the evening.
Girl Rising to engage kids through films
NEW DELHI, NOvEmBEr 29 (IANs): Story telling is one of the most important mediums to evoke a sense of responsibility towards the society. Keeping this thought in mind, Girl Rising, a global campaign for girls’ education, is set to engage kids through films. The initiative made its entry in India here Saturday. The campaign encompasses storytelling to spread awareness of things girls can achieve if educated. To grab eyeballs, the campaign has roped in actresses Freida Pinto and Priyanka Chopra, who enjoys wide global fan base.
“We choose them as they are great performers, are passionate about the issue and platform and lastly when you have an issue like girls education it is important to have visible icons to carry the message,” cofounder and CEO Holly Gordon told IANS before the official launch. The campaign in India would be focused on getting more girls past Class 10, increasing secondary school completion rates for girls and reducing gender-based discrimination in India. The program includes film narrated by Priyanka, Freida and seven other Bollywood
names, a mass media campaign and an aggressive grassroots campaign. “The best thing it is universal in nature. It is not like the problem is only in India-- yes there is-- but it is a problem in other nations as well. It just took one phone call from me to other actress associated with the project for them to come on board. It proves another point as well that female actress gets along” said Priyanka. Frieda play an oppressed girl in “Trishna”, which is set to release in India in January 2015. The actress says the role helped her reinforce her belief in
the cause. “I always felt that it was calling in this area but the project made it more clearer. A part of my job is to research, for the role I met a lot of people, I went to several villages in Rajasthan. The things I saw is beyond your imagination. “Girls getting married at the age of 13 and getting pregnant at 15... I mean you hardly get your period at that age. It opened doors for me,” said the “Slumdog Millionaire” actress. United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has provided start-up funding for Girl Rising: ENGAGE INDIA
‘Rapid industrialisation leads to pollution’
sHImLA, NOvEmBEr 29 (IANs): Himachal Pradesh High Court Chief Justice Mansoor Ahmad Mir Saturday expressed concern over rapid industrialisation and growing population leading to increase in air and water pollution. He said the judiciary has infused life in many environmental laws through its judgments, which earlier existed only on papers. Speaking at a seminar
President calls for clarity on the meaning of development
vArANAsI, NOvEmBEr 29 (IANs): President Pranab Mukherjee Saturday said there should be clarity on the meaning of development and asked social scientists to identify how growth can be achieved without destruction of environment. Inaugurating the 40th national conference of the Indian Sociological Society here, the president said that India’s biggest strength is diversity and attempts to bring uniformity had failed. Referring to the Anna Hazare movement, he said that citizens were galvanised into a force through public awareness and the government was compelled to have a dialogue with social activists. “This shows that our political system has evolved
“Children are born with conditions such as twisted limbs, brain damage, musculoskeletal disorders ... this is what we see in every fourth or fifth household in these communities.” Sarangi admits there has been no long-term epidemiological research which conclusively proves that birth defects are directly related to the drinking of the contaminated water.
trialised India, generating thousands of jobs for the poor and, at the same time, manufacturing cheap pesticides for millions of farmers. Fifteen years later, 40 tonnes of Methyl Isocyanate gas was released and carried by the wind to the surrounding densely populated disaster remains unclear and under debate. The government recorded 5,295 deaths, but activists claim 25,000 people died in the aftermath and following years. Another 100,000 people who were exposed to the gas continue to suffer today with sicknesses such as cancer, blindness, respiratory problems, immune and neurological disorders. Some children born to survivors have mental or physical disabilities. While those directly affected receive free medical health care, activists say authorities have failed to support those sick from drinking the contaminated water and a second generation of children born with birth defects. In a rehabilitation centre run by the charity Chingari Trust, located 500 metres from the factory site, disabled children aged between 6 months and 12 years gather for treatment which ranges from speech and hearing issues to physiotherapy. “Our life changed emotionally and physically
without destruction of environment and noted that climate change and erratic behaviour of the monsoons would have tremendous consequences for the country and people. Mukherjee also said that attempts to bring uniformity had failed and Indian civilization has survived because of diversity and the spirit of tolerance towards each other. He said the manner in which people of different backgrounds, language, culture and ethnicity come together and sit in one legislative chamber under one constitution reflects the strength of India’s diversity. The president asked the conference to discuss how “we can celebrate India’s diversity, strengthen democracy and move ahead with development”.
on “Pollution, a growing menace” organised by the state legal services authority here, Justice Mir cited an example of the Supreme Court to expand the right to life under article 21 of the constitution to hold that the right includes the right to live with human dignity. “It must include the right to basic necessities of life, including clean and hygienic environment,” he added. He cited the judg-
ments of the apex court holding that the right to live includes the right to enjoy pollution free water and air. The chief justice said he belonged to Jammu and Kashmir and promised that he would discharge his duties as the chief justice to protect the pristine beauty of Himachal Pradesh too. Justice Sanjay Karol said he has considered himself privileged to be
a member of the green bench, which was earlier set up in the high court to hear environmental cases. “Pollution is a grave problem and the high court has taken serious note of the problem. It has passed many landmark judgments and orders against violators of the environmental laws be it a person or a group, government authorities or statutory bodies,” he said.
Identifying proper social projects, a challenge for CSR activities’
NEW DELHI, NOvEmBEr 29 (IANs): Identifying appropriate social projects and their beneficiaries is a key challenge while implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, Kaushal Sampat, president and managing director - India, Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) said here Saturday. “As per a survey conducted by D&B on CSR initiatives practiced by PSUs (public sector undertaking), around 28 percent of companies feel that identifying appropriate social projects and their beneficiaries is a key challenge while implementing CSR programs. Hence, CSR should be made an integral part of core strategic thinking and corporate value creation rather than just a atick the box’ activity,” he said. He was speaking at the CSR and Sustainabil-
ity Conclave organised by D&B. The new Companies Act mandates that companies have to shell out 2 percent of its profit for CSR programmes. As N.K. Maini, deputy managing director, Small Industries Development Bank of India said the challenge lies in enhancing profitability, increasing shareholder value and creating wealth, while aggressively pursuing opportunities of growth. “Coming to the social dimension, the challenge is in achieving high rates of economic growth in order to enable all sectors of society to enhance their quality of life, and live with dignity. On the environmental front, the challenge lies in continual economic growth while preserving and enhancing our natural resources and eventually leaving a better planet for our future generations,”
he added. However, Rajiv Chugh, partner - tax and regulatory services, Ernst and Young LLP said, tax and CSR go hand-in-hand in the present scenario and both are necessary for sustainable development. “With corporates now being also mandated to contribute to society by undertaking CSR initiatives, it would be prudent for the government to create a meeting point between tax and CSR by relooking at given tax deduction for CSR expenditure, so that 2 percent of net profit is not seen as the upper ceiling for CSR by corporate India,” Chugh said. Deepak Jolly, vice president - public affairs and communications, CocaCola India and SWA said CSR cannot just be an addon in the journey of any corporate house, it should be embedded right from the top.
India wary of assertive China, intrusive Pakistan: IAF chief BENgALuru, NOvEmBEr 29 (IANs): With the strategic gravity shifting from west to east, especially to Asia and Asia Pacific, “India faces security challenges in the region due to an assertive China and an intrusive Pakistan”, the IAF chief, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, said Saturday. “The situation is not good for the environment, as peaceful rise of China remains a distant dream. An assertive China is investing heavily in developing military power, especially aerospace power, laying claims on international waters, island territories and air space over South China Sea and East China Sea,” Raha said during the eighth annual Air Chief Marshal L.M. Katre memorial lecture. Noting that the situation in South Asia spawning Afghanistan and Pakistan was going to be delicate, especially after the withdrawal of the US-led allied forces, the chief of air staff said Pakistan was the fountainhead of terrorism, encouraging terrorist activities despite being a part of the global war on terror. “Withdrawal of American and western forces from Afghanistan will create a very delicate situation for India in terms of some conventional threats to us. Similarly, the IS (Islamic State) gaining strength in West Asia poses another challenge for us to deal with proper planning and induction of forces, especially aerospace power,” he said. Raha said China was developing capabilities to fight major conflicts over the next 35 years, as mentioned by a security analyst in Hong Kong in an article recently. “By 2050, China wants to annex Taiwan, occupy the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, annex South Tibet and Arunachal from India, get hold of Senkaku Islands of Japan and recover lost territories in Russia and Mangolia,” Raha said. Claiming that India had no territorial ambition except to recover the land lost due to historical reasons, the Indian Air Force chief said with a hostile border left behind as a legacy of the British rule, the situation in the neighbourhood, specially on the western border, was vulnerable. “Our aim is not to occupy but deter our enemy from waging war against us with striking capability to penetrate into the enemy’s territory with air power and expose the vulnerability of the adversary,” he said. Khatre was the chief of air staff in 1984-85 and chairman of the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., which makes military aircraft for the IAF. The day-long event was organised by the Air Force Association of Karnataka branch in association with the Aeronautical Society of India and HAL. HAL chairman R.K Tyagi also spoke to the gathering of about 500 serving and retired officers, air warriors and other stakeholders.
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the Morung express
Sunday 30 November 2014
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Hong Kong protest movement’s unlikely leader
Prominent Hong Kong student protest leader Joshua Wong talks to reporters outside a court in Hong Kong on November 27. Wong and other democracy protesters were arrested during a police operation to remove barricades from a protest camp in the unruly Mong Kok district. Wong was given bail and his case adjourned until January 14. (AP Photo) Kelvin Chan Associated Press
At age 14, he stepped into the spotlight to take on — and ultimately help defeat — Hong Kong authorities’ plans to launch a “national education” curriculum, calling it a ploy to brainwash the city’s youth with unquestioned support for the Chinese Communist Party. Now, at 18, Joshua Wong is helping spearhead a mostly student-led protest movement that is pressing for greater demo-
cratic reforms in the semiautonomous Chinese territory. Slender and serious, with a shock of shaggy black hair, Wong does not cut an imposing figure. He usually wears black eyeglasses and is often seen hunched over his smartphone — a key tool used by the young protesters to get their message out via social media and group chats. Yet he carries himself with a maturity found in few teenagers and speaks concisely and with conviction while address-
15 dead in attack in China
beIjING, November 29 (AP): An attack in China’s troubled western Xinjiang region left 15 people dead and 14 injured, state media reported Saturday, the latest in a wave of ethnic violence there that has claimed dozens of lives over the past year. The official Xinhua News Agency reported that the attack took place at a “food street” Friday in Shache county, the same region where state media said a series of attacks in July left 96 people dead, including 59 assailants. The Tianshan news portal said the assailants in Friday’s attack wielded explosives, knives and at least one vehicle. Xinhua reported that 11 of the 15 people killed were assailants. Police in Shache county declined to provide information about the incident. Xinjiang has seen repeated violence over the past year as members of the Muslim Uighur (WEE-gur) minority group have bristled under what they say is repressive Chinese government rule. The central government regularly blocks attempts to independently confirm state media reports of ethnic violence in Xinjiang. Uighur groups say police have used indiscriminate deadly force against people protesting the government’s policies in the region. The U.S.-based Uyghur American Association disputed government accounts of the July attacks that described mobs rampaging through towns with knives and axes targeting majority Han Chinese. The association said police instead opened fire on people protesting against a security crackdown on Muslims during Ramadan, killing more than 20. Last month, a Xinjiang court sentenced 12 people to death for the July attacks and handed down death sentences with two-year reprieves to another 15 people. Chinese authorities say their security crackdown in Xinjiang has busted 115 terrorist gangs before they could unleash violence, but tallies of death tolls in the ethnically tense region suggest the violence has continued, and may even have intensified. Chinese state media outlets have reported at least 175 deaths in the past six months in eight violent incidents in Xinjiang.
Nigeria mosque attack kills 120
AbujA, November 29 (IANS): The triple bomb blasts at a mosque located within the Emir’s Palace in the northern Nigerian city of Kano have killed as many as 120 people, according to media reports Saturday. The blasts, which were the handiwork of the militant Boko Haram sect, happened midway into the weekly Friday prayers, The Nation online reported. About 128 other worshippers are also believed to have been injured in the blasts. The chief imam of Kano, Sani Zaharadeen, was in the process of delivering his sermon at about 2.15 p.m. when the bombs began to go off one after the other, according to the report. Two of the bombs were planted inside the mosque and the third outside. “Three bombs were planted in the courtyard of the mosque and they went off simultaneously,” a security source said on the condition of anonymity. A staff member at the palace who also witnessed the attack said: “After multiple explosions, they also opened fire. I cannot tell you the casualty figure because we all ran away.” The explosions sparked a stampede by terrified worshippers. Angry youths blocked the mosque’s gates and police had to disperse them with tear gas to gain entry. A similar bomb attack was averted at the Customs Market in Gamboru, Maiduguri, in Nigeria’s Borno state after vigilante youths alerted the police about two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted at the market. The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has deplored the attack which came after the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi, had called on the Muslim faithful to defend the city against the militant group Boko Haram. Boko Haram’s terror campaign across northern Nigeria is known to have claimed more than 3,000 lives this year. The Boko Haram insurgency has displaced over one million people during its campaign, the Red Cross said, an increase on a September UN refugee agency estimate of 700,000.
ing crowds, microphone in hand. He is admired among supporters for being willing to speak up — and doing so articulately — at such a young age. “He’s outstanding in leading the mass movement,” said Terry Ng, an insurance agent in his 30s who has joined some protests. Wong has a power to inspire and get people to think critically about government policy, said Angel Chow, an 18-year-old high school student. “He’s very young and he can lead a large amount
of people to have a protest to the government,” she said. “It is not an easy job, I think.” Wong has plenty of detractors. He has been attacked by pro-Beijing media in the city, including an article in the Wen Wei Po newspaper accusing him of working for the CIA. This week, he and his lawyer were pelted with eggs by two men after he was arrested for a second time since the street protests began two months ago. Wong, Lester Shum, another popular student leader, and about 150 others were detained Wednesday when police cleared out a protest site in the gritty Mong Kok neighborhood where demonstrators had often clashed with police, as well as angry residents. A Hong Kong court on Thursday banned him from going to that area. After paying HK$500 ($65) in bail, he was released and his obstruction case was adjourned until Jan. 14. On leaving court, Wong showed journalists small cuts and bruises on his neck that he said came from police hitting him. He also said “they injured me six or seven times in my private parts.” The arrests of Wong and Shum appear to reflect Hong Kong authorities’ at-
tempts to sideline leaders of the movement amid increasing impatience from Beijing to shut down the protests that started in late September. Students and others have taken to the streets to oppose the Chinese central government’s decision that a pro-Beijing committee must approve all candidates running in the territory’s first direct election for leader, scheduled for 2017. Wong played a key role in kick-starting those demonstrations when at a rally outside the government headquarters he spontaneously called on the crowd to storm a courtyard dubbed Civic Square. More than 100 people scaled a tall fence or pushed past a gate. Wong, Shum and other student leaders were arrested. Public anger at the pair being held nearly the 48hour legal limit without charge drove more people into the streets, where police responded by firing tear gas. That in turn boosted the protests that have come to be called the “Umbrella Movement,” a reference to the umbrellas demonstrators used as shields against pepper spray. As the weeks have dragged on, the numbers of protesters camped out in the streets has dwindled, though barricades and tents remain in place at two
GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND
OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL CHIEF CONSERVATOR OF FORESTS & HEAD OF FOREST FORCE NAGALAND: KOHIMA
No: FE-2/4/92/Pt./ 5548-550
other street encampments. The government held televised talks with student leaders — though Wong didn’t participate — but offered little in the way of concessions and has made little attempt to respond to demands. Wong was raised a Christian in a middle-class family that nurtured his concern for social issues, with his father reportedly taking him on visits to the city’s less fortunate starting at the age of 6 or 7. He graduated from a private Christian high school and this fall began going to the Open University of Hong Kong, having failed to get into the city’s more prestigious institutions because of mediocre college entrance exam results. Wong first gained notoriety when in 2011 he
started a group with some student friends called Scholarism to oppose the Hong Kong government’s plan to introduce Beijingstyle “moral and national education” curriculum into the territory’s schools. Many residents viewed the move as an attempt to indoctrinate young people and inculcate support for the Communist government. After weeks of protests, authorities scrapped the plan. Wong steadfastly believes it falls to the students to take the lead in pushing for change in Hong Kong, where the younger generation has become increasingly worried about its future because of widening inequality and the growing influence of mainland China on the former British colony. “In different countries,
in different generations it’s the same thing: students are always the ones who stand in the front line in democracy movements,” he told the AP in July. “Students have less pressure on their future, job or family. ... They can stand more at the front compared to others.” It remains to be seen what kind of impact Wong’s second arrest will have on the protesters, who find themselves cornered and exhausted and losing public support. In a recording made before police cleared the Mong Kok protest area, Wong called for perseverance. “The aim of the movement is to fight for results, not for an exit plan,” he said. “Even if I’m detained I hope everybody else will persist because we have no room to lose.”
STATE INVESTMENT PROGRAM MANAGEMENT & IMPLEMENTATION UNIT ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK (ADB) ASSISTED PROJECT KOHIMA : NAGALAND
NO.SIPMIU/ESTT/APPT/2010-11/
Dated Kohima, the 29th November, 2014
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Applications are invited from eligible candidates for filling up 1 (one) post of Junior Engineer on short term contract in the State Investment Program Management & Implementation Unit (SIPMIU). The details of post are as under: Qualification Name of Post Salary Age Essential Desirable Junior Engineer PB2: 9,300- 2 2 - 3 5 At least 50% Working knowl34,800 GP: years marks in Civil En- edge of com4,400 gineering from a puter application recognized Uni- in construction versity management Interested candidates may apply in the prescribed format to the Program Director, SIPMIU, Old Secretariat Complex, Kohima, Nagaland. The last date for receiving of application is December 15, 2014. The competent authority reserves the right to reject any application without assigning any reason. Sd/Program Director SIPMIU, Kohima Application Format
Dated Kohima, the 29th November 2014
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Applications are invited from eligible Naga candidates for the Post of Forester-I under the Forest Department vide Government Order NO. FOR/ESTT-17/2006/ dated 19.11.2014.as per Application Form attached. 1. Forester-I - 4 Nos to be filled up by Direct Recruitment. 2. ELIGIBILITY : Minimum Educational Qualification is P.U.Sc. from recognized University/ Board. 3. There will be written and oral examination/ Walking test. 4. AGE: Applicant should be between 18-25 years as on 31.12.2014 . relaxation of 5 (five) years in the upper age limit shall be applicable to SC/ ST candidates. 5. The candidates will have to undergo physical fitness test. He/ She should have the following minimum physical standards. a). HEIGHT: i). Male - 152.5 cms (5’1”) ii). Female - 154.0 cms (4’10”) b). CHEST: For both male and female. i). Normal - 80 cms(32”) ii). Expanded - 85 cms (34”) 6. WALKING TEST: i). Male - 24 Kms in 4 hours. ii). Female - 15 Kms in 4 hours 7. Last date for receipt of application is 15th December, 2014. 8. 33% of posts are reserved for the backward tribes. ** Those who have already submitted their application before Notification of the advertisement are directed to contact the concern Office for fresh application. (ALBERT SOLO) Addl. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (E&CC)
Serial No
For Forester-I
APPLICATION FORM 1. Name of the candidate (In block letter)
:__________________________
2. Date of Birth
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3. Sex
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4. Marital Status
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5. Father’s / Husband’s Name
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Male
(Please affix signed passport size)
Female
6. Category (Advanced/ Backward Tribe) :_________________________ 7. Religion
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8. Nationality
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9. Present address
:___________________________
10. Permanent Address
:___________________________
11. Contact No. (Email Id, if any) 12. Educational Qualification (Matriculate onwards)
:___________________________
Sl. Class/ Degree Educational No. 1.
:___________________________
Institute Board
Marks/ Divi- Year of sion obtained passing
2. 3. Declaration: 1. I do hereby Certify that all aforesaid information/details are correct to the best of my knowledge. I have not concealed any information. In case the disclosures are found to be incorrect, the candidature/ appointment shall be cancelled without assigned any reasons. (Signature of Candidate) Document to be attached:1) 3 (three) nos. Of signed photocopy (passport), 2) Attested copies of educational qualification. 3) Indigenous Certificate, 4) Attested copy about SC/ST status & 5) Date of Birth Certificate. Subjects for written test :Mathematics, English, Composition Science, General Knowledge of P.U.Sc. standard.
Application Format 1. Name (in Capital Letters): __________________________ 2. Father’s/ Husband name: __________________________ 3. Date of Birth (in figure) (in words): ____________________ 4.Address for correspondence: ________________________________________ PIN ______________ Contact No. _______________ Email _________________ 5.Permanent Address: _______________________________________________ 6.Nationality: _____________________ 7. Educational & Professional Qualification (Matriculation onwards):
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Degree
Board/ Institute/ University
Year of Division Subjects passing
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SN Name of post
Name of Employer/ From Institute
To
Declaration I, __________________ hereby declare that the information furnished in this application are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. In the event of any of the above information being found false at any stage, my candidature will be automatically cancelled and I will be wholly responsible for the action taken against me by the Office. Dated:_______ Place: _______
Signature of the applicant
10
Dimapur
public SpAcE
Sunday 30 November 2014
The Morung Express
DUBIOUS ACHIEVEMENTS OF DAN GOVERNMENT
T
he Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) led by the NPF first came to power in 2003. In its 12 (twelve) years of power, the State has witnessed a phenomenal change in every aspect imaginable, all for worse culminating into the present financial crisis with deficit figures of 1252.45 crores ending March 2014. The DAN conglomeration has repeatedly plundered the State Exchequer under various pretexts in the form of Machiavellian programmes and policies which were devised to benefit only the ruling class while the common man reels under severe hardships and difficulties. The DAN Government has introduced a duplicitous legacy, the scars of which will haunt our future generations to come. On the eve of 51st statehood day, the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee brings out some dubious achievements of the DAN government that has really made a mockery of governance over the past decade. Road Shows: While the roads of the state are at its worst conditions without any signs of improvement despite generous funding by the centre running into thousands of crores, the DAN Government introduced the “Road Shows” in 2009 to cover all 11 Districts in Nagaland by deviously coinciding the Road Shows with the major festival of the tribe inhabiting a particular district. Needless to say, road shows for the public were conducted during the day time while the main attraction was the entertainment of the VVIPs in the evening. These Road Shows were organized at the expense of the State Exchequer amounting to crores of rupees which only benefitted the VVIPs in the form of questionable ‘entertainment’ characterized by open flow of liquor, promotion of local brew and drinking in public by VVIPs which made a mockery of Nagaland being a ‘Dry State and brought about further decline in moral and ethical standards of society. Hornbill Festival: The Festival which has become an annual event beginning 1st December coinciding with Statehood Day now stretches into 10 days of pure merrymaking activities burdening the already depleted state exchequer. The irony of the festival is that the term ‘Dry State’ ceases to exist during this festival. Surprisingly, the Church which so vociferously defends the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, 1989 chooses to remain a mute spectator making one wonder as to whether VVIPs and revellers drinking banned liquor in a so-called dry State during festivals is justified while the common man drinking liquor at other times is a grave sin in the eyes of the Church. Over the years, the month of December in particular has seen numerous accidents resulting in loss of precious lives due to sheer over-indulgence in merry making. The streets in Kohima more or less resemble a race track with vehicles recklessly zooming around often driven by youngsters under the influence of alcohol and other intoxicants. Infamous Slogans: After the DAN Government came to power, it went into a slogan overdrive to supplement its Machiavellian programmes and policies. Though it was claimed that these programmes were in the interest of the people, more often than not, it was the politicians, VVIPs, bureaucrats and close associates of the ruling class who have enjoyed these benefits to the maximum while the poor were left high and dry. Some of these slogans are: a) Years of Youth Empowerment (2004-2005) b) Years of Farmers (2006-2007) c) Year of Capacity Building (2008-2009) d) Year of Entrepreneurs (2010-2011) e) Land of Festivals f) Back to the land
The hype surrounding these slogans failed to achieve anything except rehabilitating NPF youth workers and for other youths it was another round of lost hopes and dreams. The Year of Entrepreneurs (2010-11 and 201112) takes the cake. It was announced with much fanfare on April 30th, 2010 and accordingly Entrepreneur Awareness Programme (EAP) was held in all 11 Districts and 1000 entrepreneurs selected but the Government failed to implement the promised package leading to unrest and even picketing of the Industries Directorate at Kohima. Entertainment Government: The obsession with fun loving and merrymaking activities by the DAN government has reduced agencies like Music Task Force under Directorate of Youth Resources & Sports to deviate from its originally acclaimed purpose to facilitate, create, nurture, support and develop latent talent and resources towards professionalism and livelihood in any and every
SN
Name of Department
1.
Construction of PHQ Office Building at Kohima
2. 3. 4. 5. 6 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Construction of Vigilance Office at Kohima Construction of CM Residence in New Sect. Construction of Shopping Complex and Parking Plaza at Forest Colony, Dimapur. Construction of Urban Dev. Directorate Office Building at Kohima. Construction of RD Directorate Office Building Kohima. Construction of Works & Housing Office Complex at Kohima Const. of Forest & Environment Directorate Office Building at KMA. Construction of Staff Quarters at Forest Colony, Dimapur Construction of Treasures and Accounts Directorate Building at Kohima. Construction of Industries & Commerce Directorate Office Building at Kohima Construction of IPR Directorate at Kohima Construction of H& Family Welfare Dte Office Building at Kohima.
14. 15 16. 17 18 19 20
Construction of Banquette Hall, Raj Bhavan Construction of Cricket Ground at Sovima Construction of Home Guard Office, Kohima Construction of Economics & Statistics Office at Kohima. Construction of SIRD Office at Kohima. Construction of Land Resources Development Office at Kohima. Construction of Horticulture Office at Kohima.
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Construction of Sericulture Office at Kohima. Construction of Science & Technology Office at Kohima. Construction of Irrigation & Flood Control Central Office. Construction of Tourism Office at Kohima. Construction of Higher Education Office at Kohima. Construction of Jail Office at Kohima Construction of NPSC Office at Kohima. Construction of Fire & Emergency Services Office at Kohima. Construction of Administrative Training Institute Office Building at Kma Construction of SCERT office Building at Kohima Construction of Fishery Office Building at Kohima
facet of the music industry. MTF has now become synonymous with organising musical entertainment for VVIPs and its benefits are reaped only by a few musicians and artistes. Recently, the NPF led DAN Government spent a whopping 164.11 lakhs on Nagaland contingent comprising of 45 performers, 5 officials and a production team which left on July 24, 2014 to participate in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh, Scotland from August 1 – 23, 2014. The irony of the matter is that the Chief Minister of Nagaland had already tabled a deficit Budget of 1252.45 crores on July 22nd, 2014 during the 5th session (Budget) of 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly. Palatial Office Buildings: During 2003-2011, the State Government constructed numerous Government offices and complexes. In all these construction works, abnormally high cost of project and enormous escalation of revised rates was granted to select contractors which caused colossal loss to the State Exchequer. All these construction works have been approved at very high cost whilst most of the works were completed at unbelievably higher rate after revision of the approved cost. The accompanying table below will illustrate the governmentcontractor nexus to deplete the State coffers. State Exchequer as Private Account: The centrally sponsored schemes especially the Central Flagship Programme that does not fall within the purview of the State budget are blatantly misused. In the name of extending financial assistance, public money has been loaned out to various individuals though there are no provisions to advance personal loans from scheme funds. The CAG report ending March 2011 indicted the Horticulture Department which loaned Rs. 80,00,000 to the then Parliamentary Secretary, Horticulture Shri R. Khing, Rs. 40,00,000 (In two instalments of 20 lakhs each) to one Gwarno, and Rs. 1,40,000 to one Rongsentemjen from the Central fund of Rs. 64 crores released by the Small Farmers Agri-Consortium (SFAC) Delhi during 2008-2010 to the Horticulture Department for implementation of various components of Mini Mission II under Horticulture Technology Mission (HTM). The CAG Report observed that such acts indicated complete absence of internal control mechanism in the Department and held the procedure for sanction of personal loan was prima facie illegal and in blatant violation of financial rules. The Department subsequently issued an Office Memorandum in August 2011 stopping such advances and loans in future. Protector of criminals and corrupt people: The NPF led DAN Government has become a safe haven for criminals and corrupt people who find protection from being investigated and prosecuted for crimes they have committed. During 2013 assembly elections, the Home Minister was arrested for possession of illegal arms and ammunition, liquor and unaccounted cash in crores. Inspite
Work Order Amount (in lakh) 1426.30
Revised Amount 2280.30
% Increased 59%
206.40 1573.08 1849.10
466.43 3165.00 2580.82
125% 101% 39%
510.96 27.80 983.72 700.00 2143.38 445.58 822.30 412.25 No amount stated in w/order 161.27 829.46 203.02 317.99 20.66 59.40 No amount mentioned in the w/order 21.50 277.63 102.17 67.62 203.02 243.76 280.00 71.41 260.30 277.78 20.57
Nil 164.37 3866.00 826.00 4167.61 1307.16 1885.00 694.45 3500.00
491% 293% 18% 95% 293% 129% 68%
1070.00 7259.00 838.00 494.00 71.91 123.65 345.62
564% 775% 312% 55% 248% 108%
111.42 873.28 539.25 67.62 329.63 400.20 768.65 71.41 318.83 585.62 165.00
418% 214% 427% 62% 72% 174% 22% 110% 702%
of the grievous nature of offences committed by the then Home Minister, he rewarded with a cabinet berth of DAN III and continues to roam scot-free. In another dubious achievement, the then Minister for School Education & SCERT, Shri Nyeiwang Konyak admitted in the Floor of the Assembly on October 11, 2010 that he had taken Rs. 51 lakhs out of a total of Rs. 5,35,15,000/- released for grant-in-aid to Government recognized private schools for infrastructure development during 2010-2011. The Minister himself signed the break-up statement for this amount which is in violation of financial rules. He also admitted taking Rs. 11.18 lakhs and also admitted that Rs. 5,00,000/- each was given to Commissioner & Secretary SE and Director SE. The ridiculous reasons the Minister gave in all these cases was that the amounts were used for attending various school functions as Chief Guest. Besides, Rs. 20,00,000/- was also shown to have been used for interview of GT and PT teachers. Despite having asked the Chief Minister to take appropriate action against the then Minister, all appeals have fallen on deaf ears and the former Minister is roaming scot-free. Seizure of Unaccounted Cash: During 2013 assembly elections, apart from the then Home Minister caught will illegal arms and unaccounted cash, the NPF Candidate from 49 Tamlu assembly constituency, H. Nyemli Phom was caught with one crore of unaccounted cash as he alighted from a chartered helicopter at AR Helipad at Longleng. The NPF candidate had not given prior information about the helicopter trip to the district administration and SP Longleng. This was in total violation of the Model Code of Conduct and ECI rules that expenditure ceiling of a candidate was Rs 8 lakhs and anybody found carrying Rs 50,000 or above in cash during the election period would be liable for explanation irrespective of carrying it for political, business or personal purposes. Although the candidate was questioned by the Police and Assam Rifles about the source and intended purpose of the money, no action was taken against the NPF candidate who is also roaming scot-free till date. Rewarding Corrupt: The present Minister for Agriculture, Dr. N. Benjongliba embezzled crores of rupees from the Horticulture Department during his tenure as Director Horticulture and Mission Director Horticulture Technology Mission – North East (HTM-NE). He was relieved from the post of Mission Director (HTM-NE) on 15-122013 while he voluntarily retired from the post of Director, Horticulture on 10-01-2013 to contest the ensuing General Assembly elections. During his tenure in the aforementioned posts, particularly that of Mission Director (TMNE), irregularities involving massive amount of financial transactions bypassing the authority of the Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) of the concerned Department are apparent from the official records available. Despite
relinquishing the post of Director, he continued to operate an Axis Bank account in the name of Mission Director (HTM-NE) to transact crores of rupees till February 2014. While the Horticulture Department in a response to an RTI application categorically denied having any official knowledge of the said Bank Account, Dr. Benjongliba claimed it to be an official account and withdrew Rs 30,00,000/- cash by Self Cheque No. 76128 on 17/01/2013, Rs 15,00,000 cash by Self Cheque No. 76129 on 18/01/2013 and Rs 15,00,000 cash by Self Cheque No. 76130 on 19/01/2013 (Amounting to Rs. 60 lakhs in total) when he had already resigned from his post to contest assembly election and the Election Model Code of Conduct was in force. Although this issue has already been highlighted by the Hon’ble CLP Leader in the media, the tainted Minister continues to enjoy immunity and cabinet berth in the present NPF led DAN Government. Failure to implement Lokayukta: When Congress MLA Shri C. Apok Jamir introduced the Lokayukta Bill in 2012 as a Private Member’s Bill in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, the same was outrightly rejected by the NPF led DAN government exposing their intention of blocking anti-corruption mechanisms in the state. The Congress in its 2013 assembly election Manifesto had included the setting up of Lokayukta in the state to prevent corruption but the NPF has so far managed to shelve the idea for fear of getting ensnarled by the anti corruption mechanism. However, the long arms of law will one day or the other, catch up with those leaders who indulge in blatant corruption and misrule. Recent developments in other parts of the country where political leaders like former Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalitha and RJD Chief Laloo Prasad Yadav who were convicted by the Court and sentenced to prison after more than 17-20 years on charges of corruption serves a grim reminder to all corrupt leaders. Misuse of 712 Crores meant for 6th RoP: In 2010, the Congress led UPA Government at the Centre granted Rs. 712 crores tied to the grant for Nagaland to meet the expenditure for implementation of 6th RoP. However, the total amount was not spent as RoP arrears but was compounded to the Employees GPF Account leaving a huge financial burden for the future while the Government enjoyed the spill-over amount from the 712 crores. Out of Rs. 712 crores, the Finance Department distributed only Rs 472.55 crores to 72 Departments while the remaining amount of Rs. 239,44,26,000/- (Two Hundred Thirty Nine Crores, Forty Four Lakhs & Twenty Six Thousand) vanished without a trace. It may be mentioned that the 5th RoP was implemented in 2002 in the State of by the Congress Government without any assistance from the BJP led NDA Government at the Centre. Due to the unfriendly attitude of the Central Government at that time, the implementation of the 5th RoP led to a deficit of Rs. 365 crores. However, this deficit was waived off by former Prime Minister of India Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee during his visit to Nagaland in October 2003 as a peace bonus. For the first time in the history of Nagaland, the State Finance Minister presented a surplus budget of Rs. 18 crores in 2004 which was in the first tenure of the DAN Ministry. Conclusion: Inspite of receiving massive funds from the Congress led UPA Government, the NPF led DAN Government has plundered every conceivable arena having government funds and thus plunging the State in an abysmal deficit of 1252.45 crores. The desperate attempt of the NPF led DAN Government to blame the previous Congress led UPA Government or the Finance Commission is merely a cheap gimmick to pass the buck and coverup its misgovernance before the people. It is for the people to judge how the NPF led DAN Government has ravaged the State Exchequer with its nepotistic policies and connivance with a select group of contractors and suppliers to loot hundreds of crores of public money at the cost of infrastructure development including basic amenities like health care, electricity and even salaries of the Government employees. Inspite of the suppressive policies of the NPF led DAN Government, the NPCC is confident that the long arms of the law will eventually catch up with all these corrupt leaders and officials. The NPCC congratulates the NPF led DAN Government for relentlessly begging the Central Government to bail out the state from the current financial crisis in the form of special financial packages. Out of many, the most noteworthy achievement of the NPF led DAN Government in its near 12 year rule is to land the State with a deficit of 1252.45 crores even though it started with a clean slate and presented a surplus budget in 2004. Issued by: Media Cell, NPCC
NLTP Act: What must be seriously considered before lifting
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ust few days back, I was travelling in Kohima city bus from High school Junction to Razhu Point. Inside the bus were some High School boys in blue uniform in the last bench. I was taken quite aback when I found these boys drinking wine in a well paper covered bottle inside the passenger bus. It left me seriously thinking, if there is no prohibition will not such things just become worse and chronic & we’ll have nothing to say because it is not illegal to drink. Leave alone the question of minors; it is never going to work here. NLTP Act seems to be drawing quite a furore for years and more so lately. The mood seem to swing between three group; the Church, the Govt. and the Laymen. The church for obvious reason will always vouch against the lifting, the common men with their own reason divided between for and against, and the Govt. with ears on both sides seems to be placed at uneasy ease. However, what is fundamental is not the church ethics, govt. economical interest or individual scramble for good wine, but rather the whole notion of life itself; the inevitabilities that is most likely to befall if prohibition is lifted without taking due precautions. Firstly, let’s relook why prohibition came about in the first place? What was the nature and condition of our society before prohibition? For sure, for no nonsense reason would the church waste its time and energy campaigning for so long a year until prohibition was adopted in 1989. What is the guarantee that society would not relapse back to the bad old days if prohibition is lifted? How well does prohibition goes in other states and the states where prohibition does not exist? What is the nature and behavioural pattern of their society? Is it like our society where guns rule the roost or chaos always tends to flare up with little spark? Why are some states like Kerala, Tripura, etc. trying to adopt prohibition? These are pertinent questions for anybody’s perusal. It is a known fact that before prohibition dawns, gangsternism writ large on the street while UGs rule the jungle. Indeed it was an ‘age of lawlessness’ where crooks and cronies reigns in places like the capital, Dimapur and other district head-
quarters. Drunkards brag and brawl and street fights were daily occurrence. Than prohibition came and also with the changing nature of UGs coming to the streets, either the street bosses were eliminated or tamed, though of course insanity griped the UGs killing each other; the ‘age of extreme’ was introduced and that could be the effect of pilferage wine due to lax implementation of the Act. Analysing from my own intercourse & association with friends of this generation that I came across thus far, 75% of them casually touch wine when available or during occasions, 10% are habitual and 15% are teetotallers. This 75% won’t care for wine if it is not available but the other 10% will drink by any means. Revenue or no revenue, good wine or bad wine is not the most important factor of understanding prohibition. What is most important is, will wine do good to the already fragmented social health of our people especially at this juncture when insanity of guns & bullet always tend to rear its ugly heads? What will happen when guns got mixed up with open wine? Gujarat is a state where prohibition exists but economy is booming, Is it difficult for Nagaland economy to boom without wine? Kerala will loss 8000 crore revenue if prohibition comes, but this gain on one hand is countermined by severe loss in spending on health & social related issues because of alcohol which infact results in no gain at Gross deduction. Like most tribals, Nagas are indulgent and indolent by nature. Wine will surely be a booster to this indulgence where gluttony and lethargy will get the better of the alcoholics & in the process becomes a social bane to the society. Nagas could become like Todas tribals of Nilgiri hills where menfolk sit, drinks and merry & the womenfolk do all the works with daily wife beating at homes. We may also marvel how the Khasis inspite of being the centre where education first spread by virtue of being the colonial capital, it is hard to see how parochial & chauvinist their society has become and wine is sure a factor here. The best manifestation can be seen in university like NEHU. To lobby against prohibition for good
wine is a poor argument and more of gluttony in nature. It is pointless to argue death by bad wine because the so-called good wine is going to kill too as the label itself comes with death tag. There is no good wine and long life, its only good wine and ruined life. The question of immorality, prostitution, etc because of pilferage wine may exist but lifting prohibition is not going to change that, rather it is only going to get worse with more wine, more revelry & more prostitution. NLTP is unsuccessful doesn’t means it has to be lifted. Steps should be taken to strengthened it & fill the loopholes. It will be far more bearable to see secret sale and bootlegging under fear of the law than see open drunkenness and open debauchery. To break all present cease-fires and start outright war with India soberly will be more bearable than see our society drub in drunkenness and self destruction Even with prohibition, we kills each other so much and slowly sanity seems to be descending after decades of madness. Each day, chaos in the guise of guns threatens to get the better of our society. If gun and wine got mixed than hell will break loose. Lifting prohibition at this juncture will create a situation beyond control which could spiral into major catastrophe. To lift prohibition at this juncture, Nagaland would just become ‘wild, wild East’ with wine, women & weapons. Nagaland for Christ will become Nagaland for wine. Behavioural pattern of drinking differs from society to society & therefore before comparing ourselves with others it is imperative to know the nature & character of that society. The American society that most people love to compare differs with us by centuries if not by millennium. Perhaps we may think of lifting prohibition once our society becomes as advance as them, mentally, socially, economically and politically. In American society, their govt. takes care of the children if both the parents are unable to do so or are alcoholics or are harmful to the children. What mechanism does our govt. have in similar situation? Let it be remembered that there are still many counties and townships in USA where prohibition applies including Red Indians tribal reserves areas. Alcohol wreck havoc in the family & it is
the main reason for domestic violence and abuses where women folk and children always remain at the receiving end. In states like erstwhile Andhra Pradesh and west Bengal where wine is cheap & generously available, it has the highest number of crime against women mostly committed under the influence of alcohol. Then comes to places like Delhi, which has the dubious distinction as rape Capital and where chronic racial assault against North East people exist, wine is generously available and cheap. Wine is a sure abetment of all these crimes. Road accidents would become chronic due to drunken drive in the absence of wine detector of which our govt. has neither the means nor resource to implement it. Wine is a mocker and the source of all evil scheming and debauchery. All unholy things are vigorously talked whenever drinkers gather around the bottle. There is no such thing as drink a peg, take a good sleep and be happy. The way of the wine and more of Nagas’ way is that until and unless one get a kick over, its absolutely difficult to walk away. Wine abets corruption by the simple logic that alcoholic officers will always try to pocket govt. money to fund his bottle, so also the contractors and if it’s just common men, he will resort to diabolical means & even indulge in anti-socials activities to finance his bottle. If governance is hard at present, it is going to get harder, if politics is dirty, it will get dirtier, if election is messy, it will only get messier, if govt. is corrupt, it is only going to become more corrupt, if there is chaos, it is only going to become more chaotic without prohibition. In state like Kerala, prohibition is in the offing after seeing that alcohol has become a major social evil with lots of marital breakdown, domestic violence, flood of rehabilitation centres by alcoholics and excessive alcohol related ailments. Behind the facet of alcohol is endless woes attached. The filth of the malt house, the exorbitant price of wine and the fear of law impels many especially youngsters from drinking. With wine freely available made more attractive in style and fashion, bars, etc, temptation will become much stronger. Especially the youngsters in the most tumultuous and for-
mative period of life will be introduced early into drinking culture which will adversely affect our social competency as a people in the long run. When it comes to business, preventing minors from drinking won’t be possible if liquor becomes legal and liberally available. Domestic violence, suicides, homicides, accidents, marital breakdown will become rampant. Lifting of prohibition at this fragile juncture will surely pervert Naga cause, and the general alertness towards issues like illegal immigrants, corruption, illegal taxation, etc will be stunted. Naga society is still at transitional stage and has not yet stabilized; wine will pervert this cathartic transition. Absolute dry is untenable no matter how strong the law, but without certain control, society will just sink. Frankly speaking, it is not prudent to lift prohibition at this juncture least things reversed back to square one but one day it might have to be lifted in a controlled, disciplined and well measured environment but atleast not until Naga political problem is solved. Now, the talk of the day should rather be how to strengthen the Act, fill the lacunas, but not whether to lift it. Citing the example of the village I grew up, tradition was still pronounced and animism still a force to reckon with. Wine especially local brew (Zutho) was available at ease. The non-Christian brew and the Christian drinks. It was not quite a sight to behold. Gambling & Drinking and brawling each night were a daily affair. Family, clan bickering because of selling and gambling away lands was common. In 1990s with the strong effort of the student’s body, selling of intoxicants was totally banned and the drunkards strictly penalised even to the extent of ex-communicating and expulsion from the village. The result was phenomenal; the village started producing gazetted officers, respectable citizens, etc. Death by consumption is as good as unheard off now and old brawling rare though of course why the village is not progressing is because of today’s stupid politicking but not because of wine anymore. It’s imminent where the village will sink unto supposing prohibition is lifted. Zhokusheyi Rhakho Phek town
Entertainment
The Morung Express C M Y K
Huma Qureshi
distributes blankets every winter
Naga Orpheus Hunt 2014:
Finalists give insight
30 November 2014
Dimapur
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Yangertoshi placed 8th at Global Rockstar contest
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India
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ince she is born and brought up in Delhi, Huma is sensitive to the fact that many people die in winter due to the harsh weather and sheer lack of warm clothes. Therefore she is making arrangements to help the destitute who are suffering due to lack of amenities. Huma distributes 40-50 blankets to the underprivileged in Delhi every winter. Although she realizes it’s not much, but it’s an attempt from her side. She feels very strongly for the lesser privileged as she is born and brought up in the city and she knows the harsh weather condition, so she tries her best to do her bit. Huma consciously does her bit for the society, be it distributing food or blankets, she makes an attempt. The actress is currently shooting for Badlapur along with Varun Dhawan.
Sunday
Global Rockstar YangerToshi 8
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agaland’s Yangertoshi is making good progress at one of the world’s largest online music contest – Global Rockstar. Advancing to the top sixty of the contest, Yangertoshi is now placed at an impressive 8th spot. He is also the only contestant from India still remaining in the contest. Yangertoshi who hails from Dimapur and presently serving as Assistant Commandant ITBP at Dibrugarh will
now compete against all the other National winners from around the world. In the National Preliminary there were more than 100 artists from India and Yangertoshi has made India and Nagaland proud by reaching the Global Rockstar finals. That was a huge step closer to the grand prize of 25000 US Dollars. People of Nagaland can make Yangertoshi the ultimate Global Rockstar by voting for him and extending their prayer support.
You can vote for Yanger by visiting the site…..http://www.globalrockstar.com/artists/yangertoshi. Voting will go on till December 20, 2014.
LEFT:- Some of the Naga Orpheus Hunt 2014 finalists interacting with media persons today at Alaphra Conference Hall in Dimapur. RIGHT:- Some members of Soyachunks, the managing team of Naga Orpheus Hunt 2014. Morung Express News Dimapur | November 29
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fter three rounds of competitions, excluding audition and screening, eight remains to compete in the grand finale of Naga Orpheus Hunt (NOH) 2014. Evidently confident and sharing friendly rapport with their fellow contestants, seven of the eight finalists today shared the good times, challenges, and experiences throughout the competition to the media persons in Dimapur. For most of them, the question of winning or losing doesn’t matter much; the experiences and being in the finals count. It has been an “amazing” journey and they have discovered their own talents as well as learnt a lot from each other along the way, they said. While one stated that through the competition, he has gained more confidence, another pointed out the NOH has provided them more publicity. Nonetheless, there are challenges too. Albert N Hau (28), the oldest among all termed the voting system as the “weak point.” The voting system favours those who have the buying capacity, sidelining the talents. He suggested a change in the voting pattern – One Man One Vote – to maintain “transparency” and ensure that the competition is won through talent. Then, there is financial hurdle. With no sponsorship whatsoever, the participants bear all the expenses by themselves, with help from family and friends. For those who are stationed outside Dimapur, expenses for one round cost Rs. 10,000 to 15,000/-. To lighten the financial burdens, the contestants wished that the NOH become a semi government, so the participants as well as the organizers benefit; organizers too have no other means of generating revenue other than through votes, one person highlighted. Meanwhile, for those who are from the same district, selling of votes is an issue. One of the finalists also appealed to the public to vote not based on tribe or other affiliation, but talent. Limayanger (16), the youngest among the finalists, personally asserted that the people of Nagaland should
emphasize on performing arts as career, not just hobby. All the finalists have big plans and are optimistic that better things will come their way after the competition. But, for now, they are looking forward to performing at the grand finale scheduled to be held at the Hornbill Festival on December 2. “We are not afraid, we are not nervous,” stated one of them with great gusto. The other finalists are Wangyat Wangsu (17), Nukshijungla Jamir (19), Kevikhonuo Mor (18), Keneirheinuo Sorhie (19), Alemtemshi Imchen (21), and Marthel Jamir. NOH debut at HOrNbill Festival Since the inception of Naga Orpheus Hunt, then Naga Idol, in 2006, the competition will debut in the Hornbill Festival this year. Addressing a press conference today in Dimapur, Team Leader of the organizers of NOH, K Wapong Longkumer said that the NOH has given opportunities to many people. It is a big enterprise, which creates huge employment every season, he stated, adding it is also a platform to promote young talents. In this context, he expressed the government should not shy away from such events. Wapong also debunked the “misconception” that the NOH is a Mokokchung centric contest, while highlighting there were auditions held in various districts this season too. Meanwhile, the organizers also underlined the financial crunches involved in organizing events in Nagaland with no corporate sponsorships. They have been pushing the government to sponsor the prize money, which is 8 lakhs, but no positive response so far. The managing team, Soyachunks, also acknowledged that NOH has evolved over the years. Some kind of professionalism has crept in the enterprise, Wapong said. The organizers are optimistic that the debut at Hornbill Festival is generating interest. The best part, according to them, is, there are people from around the world at the festival. During the grand finale of NOH, six former winners of the contest will also perform. The ticket to the show is Rs 1000/- (admit two) for donors and Rs. 50/- for normal. Around 750 DVDs have been distributed free of cost to promote the show.
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Tom Cruise writes a five page apology letter to Nicole Kidman
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om Cruise and Nicole Kidman divorced 15 years ago, but it’s only recently that the Mission Impossible star’s `apology’ to Nicole came to light. As per a recent magazine report, Cruise decided to bury the hatchet and wrote a five-page letter to her. Reportedly, when Kidman’s father passed away, the 52-yearold star wrote a five page letter offering his condolences and stating his intentions to `put things right’. He also said he was thinking about his own life and the mistakes he made. Cruise and Kidman, who have two adopted children together from their marriage, had a rather sudden separation when Tom decided to call it quits after 10 years of marriage.
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Welbeck gives Arsenal Clarke's heartbreaking tribute 1-0 win over West Brom 'We love you and we always will': Clarke pays tribute to fallen teammate Hughes
Arsenal’s Danny Welbeck, top, scores his team's first goal, during the English Premier League soccer match between West Bromwich Albion and Arsenal at the Hawthorns, Birmingham, Saturday, November 29. (AP Photo)
WEST BROMWICH, NOvEMBER 29 (AP): Danny Welbeck's powerful header in the second half secured a 1-0 victory for Arsenal against West Bromwich Albion, sending the London club provisionally back into the top four in the Premier League on
Saturday. Welbeck scored in the 60th minute when Santi Cazorla ran toward the byline and chipped it back in front of goal. Welbeck soared above the West Brom defense and headed past Ben Foster despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to the ball.
While Arsenal dominated for most of the match, West Brom gave the Gunners a couple of scares toward the end. Saido Berahino's header crashed against the crossbar in the 81st and a shot by Craig Gardner flashed just wide of the near post in the 90th.
SYDNEY, NOvEMBER 29 (REUTERS): Captain Michael Clarke gave a graphic illustration of the raw emotions of the Australia team when he broke down repeatedly while paying tribute to former team mate Phillip Hughes on Saturday. Making no mention of next week's test match against India, Clarke battled to hold back tears as he read out a statement on behalf of the players at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where Hughes suffered his fatal injury on Tuesday. Hughes, 25, died on Thursday as the result of a catastrophic injury he sustained when struck on the head by a ball during a domestic match, triggering a wave of mourning in Australia and around the world. "Words cannot express the loss we feel as a team right now," Clarke said. "We are going to miss that cheeky grin and that twinkle in his eye. He epitomised what the baggy green was about and what it means to us all. "The world lost one of its great blokes this week and we are all poorer for it." Clarke, widely praised for the role he has played in comforting his friend and former team mate's family, said the players had requested that Cricket Australia retire Hughes's one-day international number, 64. "They agreed. That means so much," he added. "His legacy of trying to improve each and every day will drive us for the rest of our lives. "Our dressing room will never be the same. We loved him and always will. Rest in peace bruzzy." Tributes continued to flood in from around the world for Hughes and indication of how deeply Hughes's death has affected his fellow professionals came in the United Arab Emirates, where Pakistan are hosting New Zealand in a test series. The second test had been postponed for a day after Hughes died and there was no celebration of wickets or centuries when it resumed on Friday. "The game was irrelevant at that stage, that was just a natural reaction by a group of people whose mind was elsewhere," New Zealand coach Mike Hesson told reporters in Sharjah. "We didn't bowl any bouncers and that was to show respect."
Back in Australia, Hughes was not forgotten as Saturday morning cricket was played across the country in blazing sunshine as it has been for more than a century. Cricket Australia has encouraged teams at all levels to remember Hughes and both the score he had accumulated when the fatal blow struck him, 63 not out, and his test number, 408, were in evidence on pitches around the country. At a match between Sydney Boys and Shore schools in Centennial Park, just a stone's throw from the SCG, a row of bats topped with cricket caps were lined up beside the pitch in tribute. Cricket at the elite level has yet to resume with senior club matches cancelled in Sydney and Adelaide, where Hughes played his state cricket for South Australia for the last couple of years. Hughes is to be honoured with a state memorial service at the SCG sometime next week and his funeral service is expected to take place in Macksville, New South Wales, where he grew up the son of a banana and beef farmer. The fate of the first of four tests against India, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on Thursday, remains in the balance. Cricket Australia has suggested the players will ultimately make the decision and Clarke's demeanour on Saturday indicated that the match may come too early for many of them. Clarke's predecessor as captain, Ricky Ponting, also paid tribute to Hughes in a newspaper column on Saturday and wrote that the test should probably not go ahead.
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Michael Clarke AP Photo
Dr. T. Ao TropHy November 29 Match Result (2nd Semi-final): Mokokchung 1 – 0 Tuensang
Spirited pune hold Atletico de Kolkata to 1-1 draw
PUNE, NOvEMBER 29 (AGENCIES): A spirited FC Pune City rallied to hold Atlético de Kolkata to a 1-1 draw at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Stadium in Pune on Saturday night. The away side took the lead through Jakub Podaný’s excellent 11th minute header while the hosts hit back at the stroke of half-time through Kostas Katsouranis to level the score. Pune began to take control of the game as the half wore on backed by their home support. It was the visitors who took the lead however. Luis García collected the ball on the right, ran towards the touchline and put in a superb right foot cross. Czech winger Podaný rose the highest to glance his header into the far top corner. Pune pressed hard after going a goal down and they eventually got a reward for their persistence through Greek international Katsouranis who charged into the box and hit
a first time shot into the left bottom corner to spark wild celebrations. In the second session the home side pushed forward in pursuit of the match winner but Kolkata goalkeeper Edel Apoula Bete who had a terrific outing pulled off several saves to deny Pune City from running away with the match. Ethiopian strike Fikru Teferra picked up a yellow card for a cynical challenge on Jermaine Pennant and could very well have seen another yellow later on even as the Pune defence managed to keep him shackled for the entire match. The away side will be the happier of the two, having picked up a point on the road and remain in second place with 17 points. Antonio López Habas will be looking for victory in his next match against Delhi Dynamos FC away on December 2. Pune remain in seventh spot with 13 points.
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Guest are requested to be seated before 9:30 a.M. at the venue Published, Printed and Edited by Aküm Longchari on behalf of Morung for Indigenous Affairs and JustPeace from House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur at Themba Printers and Telecommunications, Padum Pukhuri Village, Dimapur, Nagaland. RNI No : NAGENG /2005/15430. House No.4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur 797112, Nagaland. Phone: Dimapur -(03862) 248854, Fax: (03862) 235194, Kohima - (0370) 2291952
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