1 June 2023

China warns of AI risks, calls for beefed-up national security measures

Committed to restore peace in Manipur: Shah

Correspondent/PTI

IMPHAL, MAY 31: On the third day of his ongoing visit to violence-hit Manipur, Union home minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday the government is committed to restoring peace in Manipur as early as possible and ensuring the return of all displaced people to their homes.

Continuing his efforts to bring back normalcy in the state, Shah visited violent-hit border town of Moreh in Tengnoupal district and Kangpokpi district headquarters on Wednesday. During the visits, the Union home minister met with the displaced people taking shelter at relief camps and interacted with them besides the closed-door meetings with the leaders of the CSOs based in the districts.

Shah also reviewed the security situation with top officials in Imphal and

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 31 (NPN):

State commissioner and secretary, health and family, Y Kikheto Sema, on Wednesday disclosed that the state government has planned to declare all government offices and institutions as “tobaccofree zone”.

Kikheto said this during the “World No Tobacco Day” event organised by State Tobacco Control Cell, National Tobacco Control programme on the theme “We Need Food, Not Tobacco” at Kevilhouu Rio Auditorium, G. Rio School here.

He said that the state

Govt enhances DR for pensioners

DIMAPUR, MAY 31 (NPN): State government has enhanced the Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners and family pensioners of the government of Nagaland from the existing rate of 38% to 42% with effect from January 1, 2023. According to the finance department, the payment of DR involving a fraction of a rupee would be rounded off to the next higher rupee.

Load shedding in parts of Chumou

DIMAPUR, MAY 31

(NPN): Power department, electrical division Chümoukedima, has informed that due to damage of 33/11KV, 2.5 MVA power transformer at Dhansiripar sub-station, the department has resorted to local load shedding in certain areas.

Moreh and directed them to take stern and prompt actions against armed miscreants to prevent violence and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest. At Kangpokpi district headquarters, Shah was greeted with tri-color flags hoisted across the district. Shah also met delega-

government had recently declared all educational institution both government & private in Nagaland as ‘tobacco-free zone’. Kikheto also informed that all the government hospitals, health care centres, health offices including directorate as TFZ on January 23, 2023 with effect from February 1, 2023.

On April 4, 2023, the state government declared all private hospitals, health institutions as ‘Tobacco-Free Zone’ with effect from April 11, 2023. Expressing concern over the rise in tobacco consumption, he informed that recently around 700 new cancer cases were registered

DIMAPUR, MAY 31 (NPN): Expressing disappointment at the lack of basic medical amenities, shortage of manpower and other facilities at Community Health Centre (CHC) Shamator, the Shamator Town Public Forum (STPF) has served an ultimatum on the health and family welfare (H&FW) department to necessary remedial measures within a period of one month.

In an open representation addressed to the principal director, H&FW, STPF president Kiumehean and secretary Yimso cautioned that failure to address the issues, the citizens would be compelled to seek justice through various platforms and the department would

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAY 31 (NPN): Chairman Development Authority of Nagaland (DAN) Dr Watizulu informed that the authority has plans for developing Naga Shopping Arcade (NSA), provided required funds were provided.

Speaking with Nagaland Post , Watizulu described NSA as the face of Nagaland but still lacking in many aspects. He disclosed that DAN plans to tackle the problem of lack of drainage and for which budget had already been worked out and presented to the State government.

vices for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi will be ensured.

He also met a delegation of the Kuki community and a team representing others communities in Moreh and they expressed strong support for the government’s initiatives to restore normalcy.

tions of civil society organisations such as the Committee on Tribal Unity, Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Student organisation, Thadou Inpi and prominent personalities and intellectuals

The home minister assured the people that the supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter ser-

in the state mostly tobaccorelated cases. Kikheto said that currently Nagaland was the second highest tobacco consumption state in the country and the highest consumption between the ages of 13-15 years of 43%.

Stating that only the department cannot tackle the issue, C&S suggested the Churches and NGOs to come forward in order to curb the situation. He expressed joy that the younger generations, who were the future, were coming up with a cause to say “no” to tobacco.

Kikheto also urged all the students, and children to initiate ‘No Tobacco Home’

be solely held responsible for any consequences. The forum stated that CHC Shamator was up-graded from PHC on May 7, 2014 primarily as a referral centre for patients from neighbouring health centres requiring specialized health care-services.

STPF reminded that CHC has been designed to be equipped in the areas of medicine, surgery, paediatrics and gynaecology etc, facilities for indoor patients, operation theatre, labour room, X-Ray machine, pathological laboratory and standby generator with the complementary medical and adequate para medical staff. However, it said that CHC Shamator was left neglected by successive governments. It said

“On the third day of his visit to Manipur, the union home visited Moreh and Kangpokpi and had wideranging discussions with civil society organisations. He met the delegation of the hill tribal council, Kuki Students Organisation, Kuki Chiefs Association, Tamil Sangam, Gorkha Samaj and Manipuri Muslim council in Moreh. The delegates expressed strong support for the government’s initiatives to restore normalcy in the state,” the home ministry said in a statement.

In Imphal, Shah visited a relief camp where

the members of the Meitei community are residing and conveyed the government’s resolve to bring Manipur back on the path of peace and harmony once again and ensure the return of people to their homes at the earliest. Concluding his visit, Amit Shah held a security review meeting with top officials in Imphal. He issued directives to take firm and swift action against acts of violence, including measures to combat armed miscreants and recover looted weapons, with the ultimate goal of restoring normalcy in the state at the earliest Union home minister was accompanied by Union minister of state for home Nityanand Rai, BJP national spokesperson Dr Sambit Patra, Union home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, DGARLt GenPCNair, director of IB Tapan Kumar Deka, Manipur DGP P Doungel among others.

as the parents would surely agree to their children.

Meanwhile, Kikheto also congratulated and gave away certificates to 15 students from G Rio School for pledging “no tobacco home” along with their parents.

A presentation on ‘Economic impact of Tobacco use’ was given by DTCC consultant, NTCP Linoka K Awomi. The programme was chaired by Radhika Chetri, invocation by Aphre Kerhuo, and a special song by G. Rio School, followed by certificate presentations and vote of thanks by SNO (NTCP) and deputy director H&FW, Dr. Arenla Walling.

various civil society groups had appealed to the authorities to address the issues on numerous occasions, but the plight of Shamator citizens remained unheard, adding that CHC Shamator continued to function with negligible manpower and equipment. STPF, therefore, appealed to the responsible authority to take necessary remedial measures within one month. The forum demanded that the department inaugurate the newly constructed CHC Shamator building and facilitate its occupation. It also demanded deployment of adequate manpower, adequate and essential surgical instruments/equipment as per Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) norms for CHC.

Therie restates legal interpretation of Art 371(A)

DIMAPUR, MAY 31

(NPN): Former president of Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC)

K.Therie has said it was wrong to assume that Framework Agreement(FA) has nullified Article 371(A) as claimed by NSCN(I-M) and also the contention by Adviser I&PR and Soil Conservation Imkong L.Imchen that Article 371(A) Clause IV has become redundant since there was no specific legislative power accorded to the state assembly to legislate with respect to Clause IV under Article 371(A). Therie reiterated that Article 371(A) has gone through scrutiny of Parliament and is part of the constitution of India and a summary of the 16 Point Agreement which led to creation of Nagaland as a state which has also brought immense benefits to people of the state.

DIMAPUR, MAY 31

(NPN): Several parts of the State, particularly Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland sweltered under heatwave on Wednesday with temperatures recorded

between 35-38°C With humidity level at an average of 70%. The heat index or ‘real feel’ temperature particularly in Dimapur was 41°C. As per Thursday’s weather report, the

On Imkong L. Imchen’s contention, Therie pointed out that it was short of reading the foregoing note that clearly defined that “(1)Notwithstanding anything in this constitution,(a) no Act of Parliament in respect of Clause i. ii. iii. & iv, shall apply to the state of Nagaland unless the Legislative Assembly of Nagaland by a resolution so decides.”

Therie reminded that elected members are expected to understand and uphold the constitutional provisions and therefore, Imchen’s comment was “misleading and is in violation of the Oath” and failing to uphold the constitution.

Therie also reminded that Dr. S.C. Jamir former chief minister and governor is the person to correctly interpret the special provisions since he is the living

temperature in Dimapur is set to remain the same between 35-38°C and the ‘real feel’ temperature at 41°C.

According to IMD, the maximum temperatures over Northeast region

signatory of Article 371(A) and who during his tenure, had sought opinions of constitutional experts such as former chief justice of India Mohammand Hidyatullah, senior counsellor and constitutional consultant, F.S.Nariman etc. Therie said all of them had interpreted Article 371(A) clause IV land and its resources belong to the people of Nagaland.

On the other hand, if the Centre today was misinterpreting the Act, it is the responsibility of the state government to protest, said Therie.

He also said even Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs of the state can raise the issue in parliament for correct interpretation. If need be, Therie said a private member’s bill can be tabled in parliament to clarify the provisions.

were likely to be above normal by 4-6°C during next two days. Residents also continued to face harrowing time due to frequent unscheduled power cuts and erratic power supply.

The exteriors of the Arcade would also be repainted if funds was made available. It may be recalled that NSA was constructed to enable educated unemployed

Naga youth to run their business. However, over the years, non-Nagas are running most of the shops allotted to Naga youths.

Heatwave grips Dimapur; temp likely to remain above normal All govt offices to be declared ‘tobacco-free zone’

Union HM Amit Shah visiting displaced people taking shelter at a relief camp at Kangpokpi district Hq. on Wednesday. (NP)

‘We Need Food, Not Tobacco’: Nagaland observes WNTD

Correspondent

KOHIMA/DIMAPUR, MAY 31 (NPN): Nagaland joined the world in observing “World No Tobacco Day” under 2023 theme, “We Need Food, Not Tobacco” by organising various programmes to raise awareness on the harmful and deadly effects of tobacco use on May 31. The day also highlighted the “Tobacco Free Home” campaign.

Citizens encouraged to make Wokha ‘Tobacco Free’

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Wokha, Ajit Kumar Ranjan has called upon the people of Wokha district to come together and create awareness on harmful effects of tobacco to make Wokha district free from tobacco. He also urged the people to take a pledge to take action against all forms of danger associated with tobacco.

According to a DIPR report, the DC was speaking as special guest at the “World No Tobacco Day” programme organised by the District Tobacco Control Cell, National Tobacco Control Programme Wokha at the Conference Hall of Lotha Hoho building.

On making educational institutions tobacco free zone, Ranjan sought cooperation and support from Wokha school education department to ensure that all schools in Wokha district were 100% free tobacco zone.

Highlighting the harmful effects of tobacco on health and environment, the DC said sensitising the people and spreading awareness about the harmful effects and use of tobacco products was very important as it was the only way to make them understand the ill effects of tobacco.

Speaking as the guest of honour, joint director H& FW, Nagaland, Dr. Merebeni Odyuo gave a brief highlight about the launching of the “Tobacco Free Home” campaign, he said the objective was to take anti-tobacco campaign from schools to homes creating awareness about the danger of tobacco use including smoking, smokeless tobacco products, and indiscriminate spiting.

Dr. Odyuo said the aim was to improve compliance with tobacco control laws and reduce tobacco use in Nagaland, to engage students in raising anti-tobacco awareness within their homes and ultimately bring about significant impact on the overall behaviour of the student.

Dr. Odyuo also urged all to come together and work towards creating tobacco-free homes by educating families and communities, extending support for tobacco users who wants to quit and thereby create a healthier and safer environment for everyone.

On the occasion the DC, felicitated Yikhum Village with the best performing tobacco free village, while Dr. Odyuo handed over Tobacco Free Home Campaign certificates to parents of Fernbrook School Wokha.

ZUNHEBOTO

Zunheboto district Bharat Scouts and Guides observed World No Tobacco Day on May 31. On the occasion, Scouts and Guides spread the awareness of bad uses of tobacco and their causes.

Six schools in Longleng declared tobacco-free

‘Creating tobacco-free society a collective responsibility’

Students encouraged to be ambassadors against tobacco

Acknowledging the importance of students’ role in disseminating information, creating awareness, sensitising, and implementing campaigns against tobacco usage, Superintendent of Police (SP) Zunheboto, Vishal Chauhan encouraged the students to be ambassador of change and be the “star” in creating a tobacco free society.

World No Tobacco Day in Longleng

Ajit Kumar Verma and others in Mon. Longleng district NTCP observed “World No Tobacco Day” at Bautung Government Higher Secondary School Auditorium Longleng.

According to a DIPR report, special guest Superintendent of Police (SP) Longleng, Dr. Pritpal Kaur Batra challenged all the participants to embody the spirit of Naga warriors, who were unconquered by the British. She urged everyone to fight against the menace of tobacco.

In a short speech, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Longleng, Dr. Tiasunep urged the parents to set good example for their children because children learn directly from parent’s actions. SDO (C), Trongdiba Sangtam encouraged the gathering to quit tobacco and suggested a strategy to gradually reduce and quit within a month. To inculcate a habit not to litter tobacco product waste.

EAC, Dr. Samuel Akho Konyak P sought cooperation from sections of the society, and requested their support and compassion towards tobacco control measures, emphasizing that apathy would hinders society’s progress.

District Nodal Officer (NTCP) Longleng, Dr.Bongau, Phom spoke on the theme, chronic diseases and cancer cause by tobacco use through a powerpoint. Six schools were declared tobacco free schools.

GMS BAYAVÜ

GMS Bayavü observed the day in the school premises.

The objective of the day was highlighted by head teacher GMS Bayavü, Kikruneinuo Liezietsu.

Resource person, Teisovilie from SCERT shared about the ill- effects of the tobacco usage and encouraged the students to build willpower to fight against substance abuse.

Students also took the pledge to not chew or smoke tobacco products and also motivated others to do the same, and to make the school campus free tobacco zone.

MOKOKCHUNG

Mokokchung observed “World No Tobacco Day” and launched “Tobacco Free Youth”, “Tobacco Free School” and “Tobacco Free Home” campaigns at Senayangba Government Higher Secondary School Mokokchung. According to a DIPR report, speaking at the programme organised by District Tobacco Control Cell, Mokokchung, junior dental surgeon, IMDH, Dr. Sentirenla Jamir educated the students and staff of the school on the effects of tobacco use and its consequences with the aid of an audio-visual presentation. She highlighted on the life-threatening diseases connected with tobacco use and encouraged the gathering to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

A presentation on the legal aspects of COPTA Act 2003 was presented by district consultant, NTCP, Nukshiwati Longchar; in connection to the observance an essay and video making competition was conducted and certificates with prizes awarded. The students and staff also took a pledge.

GREENWOOD HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL

The “World No Tobacco Day” cum launching programme of “Tobaccofree Schools to Tobacco-free Homes” initiative was held

at Greenwood Higher Secondary School Auditorium, Dimapur

According to a DIPR report, speaking on the theme, district nodal officer, NTCP Dimapur, Dr. Reyosalu Lase Vizo said that all educational institutions in Nagaland had been declared as “Tobacco Free” to strengthen tobacco control laws; to reduce easy accessibility of tobacco products to children; to protect the future generation from the full impact of tobacco epidemic.

To strengthen the enforcement, she said the state government has authorized police personnel and teachers of all educational institutions to act as Enforcement Officers to implement Sec 6 (b) of COTPA 2003 within their Jurisdiction COTPA 2003 Section 6(b) Ban on sale of tobacco and tobacco-related products within 100 yards of educational Institutions.

Dr. Vizo informed that “Tobacco-Free Schools to Tobacco-Free Homes” was an initiative of the State Tobacco

Control Cell Nagaland so that educational institution becomes tobacco-free.

She said the campaign would sensitise the students on the dangers of tobacco, the health and environmental hazards it causes and basic provisions of the COTPA 2003. Though the campaign, Dr. Vizo said students would have the required knowledge to create anti-tobacco awareness in their homes and reach out to the unreached with an anti-tobacco campaign.

Emphasizing the scenario of Nagaland, she mentioned that though the farmers do not cultivate tobacco, state face environmental, economic, and health issues.

Dr. Vizo also informed the participants about the 60-day “Tobacco Free Youth” campaign (May 31 to July 31), which aims to focus on youth by creating awareness, preventing initiation of tobacco use, and assisting users to quit. Altogether 20 students were awarded “Tobacco Free Home” certificates.

MGM HR SEC SCHOOL DIMAPUR

In commemoration of “World No Tobacco Day”, MGM Higher Secondary School Dimapur organised a variety of programmes in the school to highlight 2023 theme. During the morning assembly, the students under the guidance and leadership of Student School Council presented different items to highlight the adverse impact of the rampant use of tobacco products among school going children. Students presented poem recitation, speeches, special numbers and a play to disseminate the anti-tobacco message to the students and staff members of the school.

In his speech, principal Reji Abraham urged students to abstain from the use of tobacco. The “No Tobacco Day” pledge was pronounced by the principal and the entire students and staff of the school took the pledge. Later, students undertook a poster campaign in the school campus highlighting the dangerous effects of tobacco consumption.

Underscoring the importance of a “tobacco-free society”, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mon, Ajit Kumar Verma said it was the responsibility of all sections of the society to create a “tobacco-free society” and requested the cooperation of all responsible citizens towards this initiative.

According to a DIPR report, the DC was speaking as the special guest at “World No Tobacco Day” programme organised by the District Tobacco Control Cell Mon at Conference Hall, District Hospital Mon.

As part of the programme, the DC also launched “Tobacco Free Youth” campaign.

Theme speaker, MO (F.I.A.R.T.C) Mon, Dr. Imlienla briefed the participants on how the harmful effects of Tobacco. She said the 2023 global campaign aims to raise awareness about alternative crop production and marketing opportunities for tobacco farmers.

Dr. Imlienla said the state does not cultivate tobacco but directly or indirectly people are encouraging tobacco cultivation by buying tobacco products. Therefore, she urged all to cooperate to stop the use of tobacco products and discourage tobacco cultivation so that more food cultivation would be encouraged to have a healthy universe.

District consultant, DTCC Mon, E. Nyeamying Konyak informed that five more schools have been declared “Tobacco Free Schools” taking the total to 23 schools. The result of the poster competition on account of “World Tobacco Free Day” was declared on the day.

Phek District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC) NTCP has observed “World No Tobacco Day” Dr. Wethselo T. Mero Memorial Hall District Hospital with Deputy Commissioner (DC) Phek, Kumar Ramnikant as the special guest.

According to a DIPR report, the DC called upon the civil societies, teachers and community leaders to create awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco in a larger way by creating innovative ideas in their respective community.

Speaking on the theme, DNO, NTCP, Dr. Nichukholie Vupru highlighted the gathering on the 2023 global campaign which aims to raise awareness about alternative crop production and marketing opportunities for tobacco farmers, and to encourage the tobacco farmers to grow sustainable, nutritious crops.

During the programme, the gathering was also sensitized on the ill effects of tobacco; ten schools were awarded with certificate for declaring tobacco free school.

CHARITY RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL

Charity Residential School, 5th mile Unity Village, Chumoukedima observed “World No Tobacco Day” by organising poster making competition for the students of class 8-10, memes (two minutes act) competition for class 5,6,7 and drawing competition for class 1 to 4 based on 2023 theme. Anti-tobacco pledge was also taken by all teachers and students on the day.

A press release by medical department informed that the SP was speaking as guest of honour during “World No Tobacco Day” observation organised by the District Tobacco Control Cell, Zunheboto at Zunheboto Government College. Asserting that it was a collective responsibility to eradicate this “evil” from the society, Chauhan asked the students to coordinate with the medical department and administration in creating awareness and shedding light on the issue. He also appreciated the NTCP for their efforts in their fight against tobacco. He stated such important awareness programme could be implemented but it requires the efforts and contribution from the students as well to make it a success.

The SP also launched the 60-day tobacco free camp and requested the participants to come forward and support the campaign for a better cause.

Theme speaker, deputy CMO Zunheboto, Dr. K. Akaho Sema talked about the major concerns and diseases caused by tobacco. He lamented that students spend more money on tobacco products instead of consuming and buying good nutritious food.

A detailed presentation on COPTA 2003 was given by retainer lawyer, ZDLSA, Easter H. Yepthomi. It may be noted that so far 40 schools in Zunheboto have been declared “tobacco free”. Certificates and prizes were presented and handed out to the tobacco free schools and institutions.

TUENSANG

District Legal Services Authority in collaboration with District Tobacco Control Cell and Assam Rifles observed “World No Tobacco Day” at Town Hall Tuensang with deputy superintendent of police, K. Yapang Longchar. According to a DIPR report, sharing his personal experience, Yapang said one must have the willpower to quit tobacco, and encouraged the students to do away with chewing tobacco.

The programme was chaired by retainer lawyer TDLSA, Antimangyang Chang; welcome address was delivered by VP GHSS Thangjam, Antitola Chang; legal aspects of COTPA Act 2003 was delivered by panel lawyer TDLSA, B. Yemlong Chaba; effects of tobacco and its consequences by Jr. Dental Surgeon DH Tuensang, Dr. Aoyanger, and how to quit tobacco by Dr. Firdous Ahmed from 7 Dental Unit AR.

DC Wokha, Ajit Kumar Ranjan and others in Wokha.

DC Mon,

PHEK

23 women complete ‘solar sakhis’ training

DIMAPUR: A graduation ceremony of the 2nd batch of “Solar Sakhis”, a women prosper initiative of ANMA Integrated Development Association (AIDA) in collaboration with EPM Bindi International, Rajasthan, was held on May 31.

A press release by AIDA informed that 23 women completed the three-month course on “solar training”.

Speaking at the programme as special guest, Central Nagaland Women’s Association (CNWA) president, K. Atoli Sema encouraged the “solar sakhis” from various states of north east to become role models and torchbearers for the rest of the women living in different rural villages.

Highlighting the im -

portance of being skilled, she said today only the skilled and hardworking people will survive and not those who depend on the education with minimum skill.

The special guest also handed over the demo kit

to all the candidates who successfully completed the training.

In his speech, executive director, AIDA, Rev. Fr. Roy George SDB said the training was unique and a step ahead of others as the “solar sakhis” are equipped

ASU morung, library inaugurated

ASU officials with well-wisher at the new building on Wednesday. (NP) big plans for tomorrow. Let us look back at the things we have achieved so far and walk ahead confidently,” Chatsu said.

Correspondent KOHIMA, MAY 31 (NPN): The newly constructed Angami morungcum-conference hall and library of Angami Students’ Union (ASU) was inaugurated by president, Angami Public Organisation (APO), Razouvotuo Chatsu at the Old Minister’s Hill, here on Wednesday.

In his address, Chatsu lauded the union for constructing the new infrastructures, which would not only cater to the needs of the students community but would also provide a space for the general public to gain knowledge as well. He lauded the union and said

SDO (E) Dimapur helpline numbers: SDO (E), Dimapur has issued 24x7 helpline numbers for consumers. SDO (E) No. I

Electrical Sub-Division Dimapur, Er. Orenvungo S. Ovung requested consumers to dial the following helpline numbers – under Sub-Division, SDO (E) No. I, Town, Dobhinalla, City Tower, DDSC, Notun Bosti, Landmark, Supply, LRC etc., 03862- 230114, 8787570683, 9862689702 and 7085333311; SubDivision, SDO (E) No. II, Burma camp (7085011440/7085011391), Purana Bazar (7085011393), Padampukri (9233895654), Nagarjan/Supermarket (7085840654), Sovima (9089059281) and Referral Area (9856150910); Sub-Division, SDO (E) No. III, DC Court, Duncan & Signal – 7085011387.

TSUD meeting: Tenyimi

Students’ Union Dimapur has convened a meeting on June 3, 3 p.m. at Tenyimi Complex Dimapur. All bonafide college units and representatives of various colleges and universities have been asked to attend the meeting with a “traditional touch”.

Clarification: Apropos

news item “13 colonies

object to DMC notification for food vendors” published on May 31, it is clarified that among the 13 colony councils, the other six councils, which were not mentioned in the report, included United Colony Council, Imkonglenden Colony Council, Ura Villa Colony Council, Circuit House Colony Council, Vilhume Colony Council and SM Colony Council.

that it had displayed good leadership over the years by adding respectable members to the society who had occupied various positions and was making positive contributions to the society.

He added that the union was visionary for coming up with the library and morung which would aid in preserving the culture and traditional practices of the community.

He suggested on the need to remember the legacy and contributions passed on by the past leaders and through whose dedication and efforts the present leaders could carry out the good deeds. “It is better to do a small deed today than make

Earlier, the programme was chaired by ASU art & cultural secretary, Azha Mezhü while pastor, Jotsoma Baptist Church, Rev Zakiebeinyü Peseyie invoked God’s blessings.

ASU president, Bisevi Nakhro delivered the keynote address and vice president, Kevilelhou Zumu proposed the vote of thanks. Seyiekru Cultural Troupe from Rüsoma presented a special number.

with a skill that was going to be “very important for tomorrow”.

As the world was moving towards the use of the solar, renewable and green energy more and more, he said the training empowers the “sakhis” to be self-

Phek district level Yuva Utsav held

DIMAPUR: In view of the forthcoming district level Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) Yuva UtsavIndia@ 2047 programme, a meeting was held on May 29 at the Chamber of DC Phek. According to a DIPR report, at the meeting, district youth officer, NYKS, Rebecca said NYKS Phek under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports along with the district administration Phek and GHSS Phek would be organizing a one-day revamped Yuva Utsav-India@2047 under the theme, “Panch Pran” of Amrit Kaal on June 8 at GHSS Phek.

She informed that students from different schools of the district would participate in competitions under five heads namely young artist camp-painting, young writers camp-poem, photography workshop, declamation contest, and cultural festival-group events.

In this regard, DC Phek, Kumar Ramnikant called upon the heads of offices to participate in the event.

Office Of the KezieKe Youth organisation Kohima : Nagaland FELICITATION

future endeavours.

K-1246/23

Sd/Kezieke Youth Organisation

sufficient and a means to earn their livelihood using their advanced skills.

He also briefed the gathering on AIDA’s interventions with rural communities in various areas through different programmes; and expressed towards EMP Bindi International for their collaboration with AIDA.

Project coordinator, Rural Marketing, EMP Bindi International, Tarandeep Singh briefed the gathering on the objectives of Bindi International, which is totally a women centric organization, working in 19 States across the country and globally.

The programme concluded with vote of thanks from associate director, AIDA, Rev. Fr. N. Angel Kuldeep SDB.

Phangnon highlights achievement under Modi government’s 9 -year rule

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAY 31

(NPN): In the nine years of Modi government, the country has witnessed unprecedented development in every sector with focussed on uplifting the downtrodden, Rajya Sabha MP, Phangnon Konyak said on Wednesday.

Addressing press conference at BJP Dimapur district office, Koyak said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, many project and schemes have been initiated and millions of lives have been transformed. She claimed that the BJP government never backed down from its promises and cited various

Phangnon Konyak

schemes and project taken up by the party in Nagaland that has impacted the life of the people of the state. She said under “Ayushman Bharat” 32 thousand people have been benefitted and have availed free treatment worth Rs. 55 crore.

“BJP as a party believe in being with a party with a difference because it is not only credential party

but throughout the year the party works for the people” Koyak added. She said under “Jal Jeevan Yojna”, every household in Nagaland has been connected with portable piped water connection where 2.2 lakh household have been connected in last three years and under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) 16 thousand houses have been built in Nagaland. She also highlighted on the initiatives of PM during the Covid pandemic and his vision of connectivity, “Look East policy” etc. Konyak said the government was focused on developing “nation first” by putting the interest of nation as its foremost priority.

Mock drill and awareness on fire

Correspondent KOHIMA, MAY 31(NPN):

Personnel of Fire Station, Kohima (South) carried out mock drill and awareness on fire safety and rescue technique at Government Primary School, Lerie for Children with Special Needs (CWSN) on Wednesday.

At the mock drill, subinspector, Kohima (South), Keyirangsobe Zeliang gave a basic knowledge on fire and said accidents can be avoided when addressed on the right time and in the right way.

He told the students that it was important for everyone to keep in mind the basic techniques of handling such situation so that major

safety

accident could be averted. He also advised the students to not play with fire and in case of fire, he asked them to inculcate the habit of informing.

FELICITATION

The Alumni Association of All Saints Hr. Sec. School Peren, with much exuberance and immense pride, extends our heartiest congratulations to Ms. W. Aotula Ozukum, D/o Mr. Watimeren Ozukum & Mrs. Kiningle, for her outstanding achievement in the recently declared UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022 and who was also the 10th rank holder in the HSLC (NBSE) Examination in 2011 from All Saints Hr. Sec. School, Peren.

The Association also extends our warmest greetings and wishes to Mr. Pehiareubabe Ndang, S/o Dr. Zieleigai Ndang & Dr. Changneu Ndang, who secured 15th rank in the recently held HSLC (NBSE) Examination 2023 from All Saints Hr. Sec. School, Peren.

Furthermore, the association extends good luck and best wishes to both the achievers in all their future endeavours.

Sd/- Sd/Letgong

Gen Secy.)

OFFICE OF THE JOTSOMA STUDENTS’ UNION

JOTSOMA : KOHIMA FELICITATION

Aneidi Sano Nizeno Nakhro Kevideno Rino Sedevi-i Nagi

With immense pride and honor, we the Jotsoma Students’ Union would like to convey our heartiest congratulations to the following meritorious students for bringing laurels to the Union through their academic excellence.

1. Aneidi Sano, S/o Thinochülie Sano for securing Top-10 in HSLC Examination from Baptist Mission School, Jotsoma.

2. Nizeno Nakhro, D/o Vihezolie Nakhro for securing Top-13 in HSLC Examination from Fernwood School, Kohima.

3. Kevideno Rino, D/o Er. Kelhousesi Rino for securing Top-18 in HSLC Examination from Greenwood HSS, Dimapur.

4. Sedevi-i Nagi, D/o Sielie Nagi for securing Top-5 in HSSLC Examination from Greenwood HSS, Dimapur.

5. HSLC Subject Toppers in Social Science:- Rüünikho Nagi, Kezhazetuo Nagi, Kethose-e Nagi, Kevideno Rino, Nizeno Nakhro, Kevime Nakhro

6. HSLC Subject Topper in Environmental Education:- Vikhono Senotsu

7. HSSLC Subject Toppers in Political Science:- Sedevi-i Nagi Further, the union congratulates all the Successful candidates of HSLC and HSSLC Examination 2023 and wishes success for all their future endeavours.

D B-711/23

The team also carried out demonstration on how to safely put out fire with the different types of fire extinguishers. They also demonstrat-

ed on how to put out fire from domestic gas cylinders. Rescue technique for evacuating injured persons were also displayed to the children during the drill.

OFFICE OF THE YONGYAH HONGNYIU STUDENTS’ UNION H.Q LONGLENG NAGALAND FELICITATION

The Yongyah Hongnyiu Students’ Union, with immense pride and honour would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to,

1. Miss Lishen Menhahu D/o Mr. H Chingyan Phom Grade X Top-7 (97.67%) NBSE.

2. Mr. H. Jatloi Phom S/o Mr. Heang Phom Grade X for Securing Top-13 (86.00%) among the Students of Hope Academy, Dimapur in the 2023 AISSE Exam.

3. Mr. Aishong Michael Phom S/o Mr. S. Longmong Grade X Subject Topper NBSE.

The Union, further extends best wishes to the toppers and all the successful candidates in the recently declared CBSE/NBSE result 2023. May the Almighty’s guidance and favor be upon you all. V. Dauba L. Ongdok Phom President Education Secy. K-1236/23

Office Of the PANGti ViLLAGe StUDeNtS’ UNiON

P.O SUNGRO ,ViA- DOYANG B.P.O Pangti Dist. Wokha : Nagaland FELICITATION

The Office of the Pangti Village Students’ Union (PVSU) with immense pride and honour hereby extends our heartiest congratulations to the following Toppers for their meritorious achievement who have brought great laurels to the PVSU and Lothas in general.

Ms. Zeno Shitirie Mr. Yanthungo e . Jami

hSLc tOP 18(96.00%) hSSLc tOP 10 (92.40%)

D/o Shri. ekyimo Shitirie S/o Shri. ezanthung Jami

The Union would also like to congratulate to all the successful students of HSLC and HSSLC examination 2023 conducted by the NBSE.

Furthermore, the Union extends best wishes for all their future endeavours.

Sd/- Sd/- Sd/Mhajamo Kithan emiro Shitiri chumbeni humtsoe President (PVSU) Educational & Statistical Secy. (PVSU) General Secy. ( PVSU) DP-2500/23

Ms. W.Aotula Ozukum Mr. Pehiareubabe Ndang

Patrick Aron Ikie (President)

Ms. Vetolu Yomi Mr. Aseto James Kapu

The Office of The Kezieke Youth Organisation (KYO) heartily congratulates:

1. Ms. Vetolu Yomi D/o Sezota Yomi for securing Top 18 with 96.00% in the HSLC examination 2023.

2. Mr. Aseto James Kapu S/o Lt. Sevotso Kapu for securing Top 10, Science stream with 92.40% in the HSSLC examination 2023. The KYO is proud of their achievement and appreciates them for bringing laurels to the Colony. We wish them the best for their

Women participants and resource person at the end of the training programme.

Fire personnel and others at the mock drill on fire safety on Wednesday. (NP)

Health seminar for ex-PAN members

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAY

31 (NPN): The ExParliamentarians’ Association of Nagaland (Ex-PAN) organised a seminar on health at Niathu Resort here on Wednesday, sponsored by the Assembly Secretariat, Addressing the gathering as a special guest, Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Sharingain Longkumer expressed happiness at being a part of the seminar.

He also informed the ex-parliamentarians that it was his desire to review the Salary and Allowance Act of the State regarding the privileges, entitlements, salary and allowance of legislators and exparliamentarians.

He said the exercise got delayed due to financial constraints and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Longkumer mentioned that immediately after resuming as speaker of the 14th NLA and after a thorough discussion with the minister of Parliamentary Affairs, he had convened the House Committee and discussed the matter.

He said proposals had come to enhance the salary and allowance of the members and pension of Ex-PAN members. He assured that the Assembly was continuously working to work out modalities so that some requirements of Ex-PAN members could be met through various activities.

The speaker mentioned that the State government would be working out modalities to create platforms to enrich the Assembly Secretariat from the experiences of ex-parliamentarians and, at the same time, provide opportunities so that the

legislators could serve the people.

Addressing the gathering, Power and Parliamentary Affairs minister KG Kenye described Ex-PAN as a storehouse of intellectual resources and said the State government required their guidance, participation and opinions.

He said he considered Ex-PAN as the most respectable and dignified organisation and appealed to its members to come forward and show the current legislators the way towards progress. He urged the members to be more proactive.

Admitting that there were many problems being faced by the State government, he urged ExPAN members to partner with the government in resolving these since all of them had huge experience.

In the first session of the seminar, Health & Family Welfare joint director Dr Kika Longkumer spoke on “Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme” (CMHIS), while H&FW deputy director Dr J Hokugha Sumi spoke on the topic “Health Management and Care” in the second session.

Speaking with media persons after the programme,

Ex-PAN president Joshua Sumi said the seminar was organised by the association to create awareness among the ex-parliamentarians as well as parliamentarians on healthcare.

Ex-PAN general secretary S Supongmeren mentioned that the seminar was held to fully equip and crate awareness among the members of the association on the recently-launched CMHIS.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by Ex-PAN adviser Nilo Rengma and invocation offered by State chaplain Rev TW Yamya Konyak.

The welcome address was delivered by the ExPAN president, while a special number was delivered by Alobo Naga and vote of thanks by the Ex-PAN general secretary.

Health screening of Ex-PAN members was held on the occasion, which was conducted by H&FW joint secretary Dr Alemwabang Aier. Registration and card insurance drive for CMHIS was also undertaken for the members. Around 80 exparliamentarians attended the health seminar.

CVYS reiterates; declares ‘drug free zone’

DIMAPUR:

Chümoukedima Village Youth Society (CVYS) has once again informed the general public on its standing resolution.

In a press release CVYS president, Kedovikho Visezo and general secretary, Rokovikho Thepa informed that hunting, fishing, collecting of

fodder, firewood and other activities that endangers or deplete flora and fauna have been banned under its jurisdiction.

It cautioned that stringent action will be initiated against defaulter with a fine of Rs. One lakh or more depending on the severity of the act. The union also informed that all

Mon police seize drugs; arrest 4

DIMAPUR: Acting on input received from “reliable sources”, Mon police personnel seized 119.17 grams (approximate) of suspected heroin “sunflower” on May 21 and May 28 in three separate occasions and arrested four persons.

In a press release, additional SP and PRO Mon police, Ilam Lungalang on May 21, a team of Mon police seized a soap case and six tobacco containers containing suspected heroin weighing 18 grams from the possession of two persons namely Phongwang (43) son of Haomong of Kenchenshu Village

KBC holds 49th graduation ceremony; 66 awarded degrees

and presently residing at Wajiem Ward, Mon Town, and Khampei (33) son of Apon of Longwa Village.

On the same day, the team also arrested Monjeak (25) son of Tohpha of Mon Village and seized four boxes of suspected heroin weighing 54.17 grams from his possession.

PRO informed that on May 28, a team of Mon police personnel seized four boxes of suspected heroin weighing 47 grams from the possession of John Konyak (43) son of late Yayuk Konyak of Mon Village and present resident of Chingai Ward Mon Town.

NNC (PB) general meeting

DIMAPUR: Naga National Council (Parent Body) has appealed to concerned especially NNC executive council members, all the respective Regional Councils, Subregional councils, senior leaders, Naga Women Federation and the officials to attend the general meeting scheduled to be held on June 2.

equipment/weapons caught from the defaulters will be destroyed for which CVYS will not be liable for the loss.

CVYS also expressed concern on the rampant use and sale of illegal and harmful narcotic drugs in Chümoukedima village and in the interest and wellbeing of the society have declared its jurisdiction as

“drugs free zone”.

In this regard, CVYS warned that harsh action will be initiated against the defaulters and will be persecuted as per the customary law of the village.

Further, CYVS appealed to all the denizens to respect and follow the laid norms and regulations

under its jurisdiction for the convenience and safety of everyone. It has also set speedlimits and cautioned against driving of vehicles by underage inside the village jurisdiction. CYVS also cautioned against loitering inside the village jurisdiction without genuine reason after 8 pm.

HEALTH CAREGIVER COURSE

(certified by IIE Guwahati)

Applications are invited for the 3rd batch Health Caregiver training program at Christian Institute of Health Sciences & Research (CIHSR) Dimapur, Nagaland from interested candidates.

Minimum Eligibility criteria: Class 10 passed

Age Limit: 17-45 years

course duration: 5 months (3 months intensive theory and practical class and 2 months of internship in the hospital)

Job opportunities: Placement at patient’s home for care, jobs in Old-age homes, jobs in health agencies in Nagaland

*100 % Placement done for the last batch

Application forms and Brochures are available from 7th June (8:30 am - 4:00 pm from Monday to Friday and 8:30-12:30 PM on Saturdays) and can be collected from the cIHSR Accounts Office, Administrative block.

The last date for submitting the filled-in application form is 30th June 2023

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALANd

OFFICE OF THE MEDICAL SUPERINTENDENT dISTRIcT HOSPITAL KIPHIRE

NO.MS.3/29/ICU/2022-2023/ / Kiphire, dated, the May’2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Applications are invited for interested & eligible candidates for Walk-in-Interview for 3

(Three) posts of Staff Nurse in the ICU of the District Hospital Kiphire.

1. On contractual basis for a period on 1(one) year (w.e.f date 1st June 2023 to 31st May 2024). The contractual service is extendable on yearly based performance.

2. The remuneration shall be @ Rs.15,000/- (Fifteen Thousand) per month during the period of support.

3. The details of Recruitment Process, Eligibility Criteria & Application form can be downloaded from the Department Website-https://nagahealth.nagaland.gov.in

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 31(NPN):

The 49th graduation programme of Kohima Bible College (KBC) was held at Multipurpose Hall, IG Stadium Kohima on May 31, where it awarded degrees to 66 students.

The degrees were awarded to 30 in M.Div, one in M. Div (Diploma), four in Master of Divinity (extension), 24 in Bachelor of Theology and seven in Bachelor of Theology (Diploma).

On the occasion, Keneinguno Kezo(M.Div) and Viswedeno Sachü (B Th) were awarded with David Nann’ Award for the Academic proficiency Award. Sülü Pichhurü (M Div) and Viswedeno Sachü (B Th) received KBC President’s Award for Old Testament.

Keneinguno Kezo (M Div) and Viswedeno Sachü (B Th) received KBC Principal’s Award for New Testament. Ruopfuvituo & Kuotsusinuo (M Div) and E.Mopa & Thaam K (B.Th) were awarded with Rev Neihulie’s Award for Practical Ministry and Kehoukhrienuo Sopfünui and Idichube Hiekha (M Div) and Vithong Tikhir & D. Kaini Kayina (B Th) with Spiritual Maturity Award,Mulevoto Venuh, Kevilezo Sachü, Viletuonuo and Rokonguü were presented with Social Service Award.Student of the year Award 2023 was awarded to Beduvolü Soho.

Earlier, guest speaker Rev. Dr. Mati Joseph, former Registrar, KBC (1974-1984) and Missionary encouraged the newly graduates that God has a purpose for everyone and that has to be

the soul winner. In his valedictory message, Rev. Joseph encouraged the graduates that knowing the word of God, obeying and living in His way would be most impactful. He asked them to remain a student of the Bible throughout their lives. The programme was chaired by Thejavizo Sopfünuo, assistant professor, KBC. Speech on behalf of the graduating students was delivered by Keneingunuo Kezo (M. Div).

R. Bendang Kichu, Academic Dean, KBC led the presentation of awards and certificates which were conferred to the graduating students by Rev. Zotuo Kiewhuo, principal, KBC and senior pastor, Koinonia Baptist Church and Abei-ü Neihulie, president, Managing Board, KBC.

Nagaland Board of School Education

Nagaland Board of School Education

Kohima

NOTIFICATION NO. 60/2023

Advisor of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Kazheto Kinimi along with the deputy chief minister, Y.Patton called on Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala on May 31.

4. Last date of submission of application will be 3rd June 2023 to Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Kiphire.

5. Date of interview will be 5th of June 2023 at 2:00 PM at the Office of the Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Kiphire.

REcRUITMENT PROcESS ANd ELIGIBILITY cRITERIA:

1. Eligibility Criteria:

(a) Qualification – B.Sc Nursing/GNM – from recognized institute approved by the Indian Nursing Council.

(b) Age limits – 18 years to 35 years

2. Application form to be filled by the candidate will all relevant documents which are attested to be submitted to the office of the medical Superintendent kiphire on or before date.

3. The applicants will be called for interview on the appointed date after scrutiny of the documents.

4. If the candidate is employed elsewhere, the candidate should bring a ‘NO OBJECTION CERTIFICATE ‘from the employer.

5. The applicant should bring all the relevant documents in original at the interview on the appointment date.

6. The selection of the candidate based on Walk- in- Interview shall be carried out by the Hospital Recruitment Board after the verification and scrutiny of the documents.

7. Preference shall be given to those candidates hailing from the same district ,as placement and posting shall be in the respective district hospital ICU.

8. On being selected, the candidate will report to the office of the Medical Superintendent of the respective district hospital for orientation and duty assignment.

9. This advertisement is based on M.O.U signed between Directorate of Health & Family Welfare and the eGovernments Foundation for implementation of the 10 bed ICU project in Nagaland. (dR. R. cHUBALA AIER) CMO Cum Medical Superintendent District Hospital Kiphire

Graduating students with the guest speaker.

(Inset) Sharingain Longkumer and KG Kenye. Ex-PAN members at the health seminar.

Scorching months ahead

Hot summer has arrived and so have power cuts in Nagaland. Day time temperatures in Dimapur have soared to between 28˚ to 30˚ C, indicating a long and terribly hot summer ahead. What has made the heat and humidity especially in Dimapur, worse is the perennial power cut. Those in Dimapur, especially those who cannot afford to own back up generators will be hardest hit. Frequency of power cuts in Dimapur occur at almost regular intervals of around two hours. Even sensitive equipments are damaged due to power fluctuations and has caused huge losses to business, especially storage and small units that are wholly dependent on power supply. Generators are meant as standby but in the prevailing circumstances, they have become the mainstay as power from the department, has become the standby. The problem arises due to shortage of power available for supply. This is caused due to shortfall in power where, against the requirement of around 175 MW the state gets around 140 MW. It is worse during the heat and humidity at peak hours everyday.

Nagaland has been struggling to obtain required power for several decades but loss in transmission and revenues have only compounded the problem. With demand for power being ever high, the purchase rate on short term during the summer months is also sky high. According to reports, the purchase price at such a period is around Rs.15 per unit of electricity; while the selling rate is around Rs.7 to 8 per unit of electricity. That makes no economic sense for the government but that is not the main worry. It has been stated often by the power department that Nagaland buys electricity worth around `400 Crores but at the end the department is able to recover only Rs. 162 Crores (As per 2019-2020). During a five year period, Nagaland lost around Rs.1000 Crores due to inability to effectively recover electricity bills. When the power loss in Nagaland is almost 50% and double the national average, it calls for serious attention of the department as to why this abnormal figure continues to hinder efficiency in the system of transmission and supply. The department has been on the job in making all efforts to streamline the system but despite all these, the consumers are still plagued with regular power interruptions that last as long as one hour or more. In order to reduce such a huge loss in revenue, the power department has been trying to incorporate state-of-the-art technology to improve transmission, generation and distribution sector to enhance revenue collections. In the past several years, it has become almost a regular feature for the department to announce loss amounting to approximately over Rs.100 crore annually. On the other hand, there have been numerous complaints about consumers being handed inflated bills. This is highlighted when consumers believe they are being billed for non-supply of power and blamed it on improper metering or inefficiency. The option of providing pre-paid meters may serve the department with regard to revenue collection even if consumers cry foul over having to pay a high price. Power in theory and powerless in practise seems to be the prescription for the suffering power consumers of Nagaland and this needs to be addressed urgently.

daily devotion Put God First

Jesus did not commit Himself to them…for He knew what was in man. —John 2:24-25

Put Trust in God First. Our Lord never put His trust in any person. Yet He was never suspicious, never bitter, and never lost hope for anyone, because He put His trust in God first. He trusted absolutely in what God’s grace could do for others. If I put my trust in human beings first, the end result will be my despair and hopelessness toward everyone. I will become bitter because I have insisted that people be what no person can ever be— absolutely perfect and right. Never trust anything in yourself or in anyone else, except the grace of God.

Put God’s Will First. “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God” (Hebrews 10:9).

A person’s obedience is to what he sees to be a need— our Lord’s obedience was to the will of His Father. The rallying cry today is, “We must get to work! The heathen are dying without God. We must go and tell them about Him.” But we must first make sure that God’s “needs” and His will in us personally are being met. Jesus said, “…tarry…until you are endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). The purpose of our Christian training is to get us into the right relationship to the “needs” of God and His will. Once God’s “needs” in us have been met, He will open the way for us to accomplish His will, meeting His “needs” elsewhere.

Put God’s Son First. “Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me” (Matthew 18:5).

God came as a baby, giving and entrusting Himself to me. He expects my personal life to be a “Bethlehem.”

Am I allowing my natural life to be slowly transformed by the indwelling life of the Son of God? God’s ultimate purpose is that His Son might be exhibited in me.

By Oswald Chambers

Quotes

Symbolism: Sceptre & substance, staff & responsibilities

Symbols are necessary because they convey a number of meanings in nuanced and candid ways. Symbolism is nothing but imageries portraying something deeper in its content and essence. For the last few days we have been shrouded with controversies and polemics over sengol or scepter that the current dispensation has decided to keep adjacent to the Lok Sabha Speaker in the newly constructed India’s parliament. The ruling party offers a number of justifications for keeping the sengol in the Indian Parliament which is the Soul of India’s constitutional democracy. The ruling government and some say that the sengol, or scepter, from Tamil Nadu that was presented to Jawaharlal Nehru in 1947 has become a symbol of how India has overtaken the erstwhile colonial ruler UK not just in economic size, but other areas as well. Even in the coronation ceremony of King of UK, sceptre seemed have played a major role because it is symbolic that represents responsibilities, tradition, power, royalty, and authority. In our case, more than the inauguration

of new parliament, keeping the scepter has perhaps received enormous praise as well as controversies. Above all, sengol represents an underlying promise which ought to be translated without which it is just an over-decorated staff.

India’s Parliament is the heart and soul of democracy that carries the promise of democratic governance and practices. The functioning and deliberations of the parliament are dependent on the quality and depth of debates and discourses being carried out on issues leading to passing on the laws in democratic manner. In recent times, what we have been witnessing show just the opposite. We have come to a point that democracy is all about brute numbers that could bulldoze the entire opposition thereby failing to recognize the fact that others also have points that should also be considered. Carrying others along enjoined by reason and logicality should be the prerogative of the majority or the ruling dispensation.

The discussions and debates taking place on diverse issues and problems in the parliament will have

At the crack of dawn on December 4th, 2022, Dr. Aniruddha Babar, a Professor, Lawyer and veteran Adventurer, along with his devoted disciple Haiguing Kuame, a diligent student of Political Science, embarked on an extraordinary motorcycle expedition to the unknown territories of Frontier Nagaland. Their purpose was to actively engage with the tribal leaders, esteemed elders, and community members of each tribe residing in Frontier Nagaland. Their aim was to deeply comprehend the fundamental issues, perspectives, and challenges faced by the Frontier Naga people, while also meticulously documenting the grassroots reality of the region. They sought to raise awareness about the Constitutional and Legal Rights of the indigenous population of the Frontier Nagaland and expressed their unwavering, proactive support for the “Frontier Nagaland Movement” which they understand as - A movement to claim the ‘lost’ Constitutional Rights of oppressed people.

Setting off from Burma Camp in Dimapur, the duo embarked on their intrepid journey, venturing through diverse destinations. Their initial destination was the land of Mon, where

elevate those who represent the electorates in the parliament. The smoothness of parliament functioning and the quality of debates and discussions will undoubtedly become the hallmark and in the process influence the present and the future.

It is not just the Parliament sessions; it is also the way with which the parliamentarians conduct themselves in the parliament as well as outside. People of India especially those belonging to older generations still remember the levels of debates and views were expressed and the maturity with which problems had been approached and sorted out. India’s parliamentary performance has fallen short of its decency.

India’s parliamentarians should take lessons of the recently held coronation of UK’s monarchy. Having spent millions of pounds of tax-payers money, many have started to raise questions about the functionalities and contributions of the British monarchy in return. Likewise, the money spent in constructing the new parliament that too during corona-virus’ times when millions of people were run-

ning helter-skelter for basic survival needs shows the callousness of the government. The pomp and regalia that go behind these megaevents irks the ordinary citizens and tax-payers. If we start peeling the symbol layer by layer we may find the underlying substance, leading to caricature. Hence, symbolism should sustain its substance for which it stands for.

In the parliament and in other conversations we have increasingly been witnessing self-goals displaying one’s ignorance and bankruptcy of ideas India is at a critical moment, wherein people within and across the world watching what’s happening in India. Sceptre in sum means governance which should be couched with righteousness – uprightness, fairness, straightness, and justice. If we say parliament is the temple of democracy, then it is our bounden duty to respect those voices that represents people. Our parliamentarians have stooped too low in their words and actions. Symbols that promote equality, dignity, fraternity, justice, and rightness are all very good, but those

symbols that are divisive, spewing venom and hatred should be shunned. More than symbols, a parliament that stands for love, peace and humanity is much better.

Similarly, the crosier of the bishop especially Anglicans and CSI tends to symbolize or denotes as a symbol of his/her responsibilities. A traditional shepherd’s crosier typically has a large hook at one end. Crosier is also called as pastoral staff with a curved top – a symbol denoting as ‘God’s shepherds’ and is carried by bishops. The crosier or “stick” symbolizes his/her office as recognition of their pastoral responsibilities. Scepre - an ornamental staff carried by ruler on ceremonial occasions as a symbol of sovereignty. Likewise, CSI and Anglican bishops carry the staff along with them reiterating that their duty is ‘shepherding’ – nurturing and guiding their flocks spiritually and ethically.

Staff also signifies their uprightness, integrity, and accountability and thus be prepared to sacrifice their lives as shepherds while trying to save their sheep

‘Roaring through the Frontier’

they had the privilege of meeting the brave and courageous Konyak tribe, known for their rich heritage. Continuing their expedition, they proceeded to Longleng, where they engaged with the friendly and curious Phom tribe, known for their distinct cultural practices. From Longleng, their path led them to Tuensang, where they interacted with the resilient and persistent Chang tribe, renowned for their vibrant traditions. Moving forward, they arrived in Noklak, where they embraced the warm hospitality of the inquisitive and happy Khiamniungan tribe, known for their unique customs and language. Further on their route, they reached Shamator, where they exchanged ideas and experiences with the spirited Yimkhuings, a tribe known for their close-knit community and tiger spirit.

Their journey continued to Anatongre, a place where they encountered the ‘awakened’ Tikhirs, a tribe distinguished by their rich history. Finally, they arrived in Kiphire, where they were greeted by the ever enthusiastic and determined Sangtam tribe, known for their unwavering spirit. With the completion of their epic exploration, they embarked on the ‘eventful’ journey back to Dimapur, thereby

concluding their remarkable adventure, which etched an immortal mark in the annals of Frontier Nagaland’s history.

“.....FINALLY, WE realized, Frontier Nagaland is already born-in the mountains, in the jungles, in the fields, in the rivers, in the air, in the sky, in the rain, in the storm, in the light, in the darkness, in the fragrance of Eastern Nagaland. We realized, Frontier Nagaland is already born in the spirit and conscience of every Eastern Naga. They are eager to build new world- they are eager to write their own chapter in the glorious history of this grand nation. They want to build new India. WE ARE THE WITNESS”.... (Expedition Log entry, by Dr. Aniruddha Babar, Dated 11th December, 2022, Kiphire, Nagaland, INDIA) In the land of Frontier Nagaland, wild and untamed, Dr. Aniruddha and Haiguing rode, their spirits unchained, On their motorcycles, roaring with power and might, They embarked on adventures, fearless day and night. Through rugged terrains and treacherous trails they sped, With hearts full of courage, no challenge left unled, Across the valleys and mountains, they fearlessly roamed,

Commission of inquiry on Wokha church dispute

(From previous issue)

The Hon’ble Supreme Court further held that the Commission of Inquiry had nothing to obstruct or interfere with the lawful powers of the courts by acting bona fide and by discharging statutory functions under the Commission of Inquiry Act. As per the provisions of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952, a Commission of Inquiry can only be appointed by the House of the People (Lok Sabha) and State Legislative Assembly; and, the State legislature can appoint such Commission to inquire on any matter relatable to only List II or List III of Schedule VII of the Constitution of India. The Act prescribes that only matters of public importance must be inquired into by such commission, and the present issue such as the LBCA crisis falls within the category of ‘Public Order’ enumerated in entry 1 of List III of Schedule VII. In a broader sense, the LBCA crisis is a matter of public importance because the crisis involves tensions within a religious organization that affects the whole population of the Wokha district; there is a continuous challenge to peace and safety within the community which prejudicially affects or threaten to affect the public well-

being; the need for continuous supervision of executive magistrate and involvement of armed personnel for peace and security to contain tensions that arise time to time within the LBCA headquarters; the continuous wastage of precious government time and State resources, etc.

The importance and findings of a commission inquiry have been explained by the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of Shri. Ram Krishna Dalmia vs. Justice S.R. Tendulkar & ors, where it observed, “the whole purpose of setting up a Commission of Inquiry consisting of experts will be frustrated and the elaborate process of inquiry will be deprived of its utility if the opinion and advice of the expert body as to the measures the situation disclosed calls for cannot be placed before the government for consideration notwithstanding that doing so cannot be to the prejudice of anybody because it has no force of its own. In our view, the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry are of great importance to the Government in order to enable it to make up its mind as to what legislative and administrative measures should be adopted to eradicate the evil found or to implement

the beneficial objects it has in view.”

To conclude on the very fact that religious issues are a matter of divine and sentimental affair that if left unresolved could escalate into a volatile situation with time, and in the interest of justice and the need to restore public order within the Lotha community as a whole and the church in particular, and having exhausted all possible means to resolve the issue in question, therefore, as a measure of last resort it is absolutely felt necessary for the State Government to appoint a Commission of Inquiry to work within a specific timeframe, and upon submission of the inquiry report, the government thereby adopt and enforce the recommendations in letter and spirit, so that public order, peace and tranquillity in the Lotha community is once again restored and that the Church bells from Vankosung, the headquarters of the LBCA, may once again ring freely throughout Wokha reassuring a new ray of faith, hope, and love among the people.

(Concluded)

N. Zubemo Lotha, LLM. Advocate, Gauhati High Court, Guwahati, Assam.

prepared to give away their lives as well.

Sengol symbolizes the straight stick -- which is supposed to be straight and not to be bent. If it is bent the sovereign ruler or king or queen or bishop has slipped from being straight. Therefore, sengol denotes righteousness and so a righteous king or queen or ruler or bishop shall never indulge in unrighteous deeds. Whether we keep the sengol next to the Lok Sabha speaker or not, or bishops carry their staff or not, they are supposed to be just and fair before God and people.

Symbols do transmit symbolic messages that undergird long-cherished and ever-living ethical values and moral principles. Those who represent these symbols should exhibit exemplary character as they demand. If they fail, they remain as mere symbols and in course of time people would certainly make them as redundant. We, especially those who carry all these paraphernalia should ponder over Napoleon Bonaparte’s maxim: “More glorious to merit a scepter than to possess one.”

Dr. John Mohan Razu

Their souls alight, in this land they called their ‘own’.

Dr. Aniruddha, the leader, with wisdom and grace, Guided Haiguing, his disciple, to embrace the chase, Together they faced dangers, tested their limits true, In the depths of Frontier Nagaland, where few dare to pursue.

Through thick jungles and winding roads they traversed, Facing nature’s obstacles, undeterred and unrehearsed, They braved the elements, the rain and the storm, Their spirits undimmed, as they conquered each norm.

The landscapes unfolded, like paintings come alive, As they explored the ‘darker’ mysteries, seeking thrills to revive,

The dangerous motorcycle adventures they sought,

A testament to their passion, their spirits never caught.

In Frontier Nagaland’s plight as the riders saw with a clear sight, Seeking justice with all their might.

Voices rise, hopes ignite, Hand in Hand with Frontier Naga people’s Constitutional and peaceful fight.

In the realm of Frontier Nagaland’s quest,

The adventurer duo’s plea for justice resonates, manifest. For the people of the land, so long oppressed, Their voices rise, demanding what is best.

With unwavering spirit, Frontier Nagas stand united, Seeking equality, their rights ignited.

In the pursuit of justice, they persist, Frontier Naga people, their cause that Dr Aniruddha and Haiguing hold dear, insists.

In the darkest depths and days of Frontier Nagaland, a bond was formed, Between Dr. Aniruddha and Haiguing- in the land of oppressed, their spirits transformed, Their stories echoing through the valleys and the hills, As legends of bravery, their motorcycle adventures instill. So raise a toast to their journeys, their fearless rides, In the Frontier Nagaland, where adventure resides, Dr. Aniruddha and Haiguing, forever they’ll be, The fearless riders of danger, in the land of the wise and free.

Dr. Aniruddha Babar, Dept of Political Science, Tetso College, Nagaland

70% parents believe image editing apps, filters affecting kid’s body image

Nearly 7 in 10 parents believe that the wave of new image editing apps and filters along with trends related to appearance are affecting their children’s body image, according to a report.

The report showed that 69 per cent of parents of children younger than 18 think social media image editing apps and filters have a negative influence on their child(ren)’s body image.

In addition, 65 per cent of parents agree that social media trends related to appearance -- like diet or exercise -- have a negative influence on their child(ren)’s body image.

“It’s important to talk to kids about food and their bodies,” said Dr. Erin McTiernan, paediatric psychologist at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in the US.

She advised parents to pay attention to the content children are consuming on social media and how it’s impacting them.

“A child’s feelings about their body can affect their mental health,” said McTiernan. “We know that social media can affect everything from purchasing choices to perception of beauty, and unfortunately children are the most vulnerable to unrealistic body image expectations set by these platforms. Children

on social media can be exposed to thousands of messages every day about how to look, what to do, and who to be.”

Conversations about body image can be challenging, even for confident parents. The expert suggested instead of labelling foods as “good” or “bad”, take a more neutral stance and encourage adding foods from a variety of food groups to create balanced, nourishing meals.

Parents must focus on overall health, not weight; model positive body image and recognise your child’s positive traits or qualities that don’t have to do with their appearance.

The balance between allowing children to explore social media while avoiding potentially dangerous aspects, such as harmful “trends” or messages, can be difficult.

The report is based on a national survey conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of The On Our Sleeves Movement For Children’s Mental Health, created by Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The survey included 2,035 US adults ages above 18, among whom 711 are parents of kids younger than 18.

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”

~ Suzy Kassem

Three cops hurt in bomb blast in Manipur

Correspondent IMPHAL, May 31: At least three Manipur police commando personnel were injured in the battle between the security forces and suspected militants amid Union home minister Amit Shah’s efforts to bring back normalcy in violence-hit Manipur. According to police, the three commando personnel sustained injuries after a pipe bomb planted by suspected militants exploded at a place between Tangjeng Ahallup of Kakching district and Leisan Tampak of Bishnupur district.

The injured police commando personnel were rushed to a private hospital at Kakching district hospital from where one of them who sustained critical splinter injuries was shifted to a hospital in Imphal. Reports said that the pipe bomb went off during an operation launched by a combined team of state police commandos, Manipur Rifles, IRB and BSF to flush out militants.

Police sources said that with the security forces advancing, the militants have started retreating from the

area. The security forces have destroyed many bunkers erected by the militants, sources added.

On the other hand, the operation to flush out militants at Litanpokpi area of Imphal East district bordering Kangpokpi is going on, reports said. A combined team of state and the Central security forces have been engaging in gunfights from early Tuesday morning.

Many people have been injured in the violence that erupted in the state on May 3.

Muslim body in M’laya seeks 4% job quota

SHILLONG, MAY 31

(IANS): A local organisation in Meghalaya has demanded 4 per cent reservations in government jobs for the members of the Muslim community. The Anti-Corruption League (ACL), representing the ‘Desi’ Muslims inhabiting the plains of Garo Hills region, has written to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma demanding 4 per cent reservations in government jobs for Muslims in the state, which is dominated by Christians.

The ACL letter was sent to the Chief Minister on Tuesday, the day when the Meghalaya government reconstituted a committee to chalk out a plan to implement the reservation roster system and the state reservation policy.

A spokesman of ACL

said on Wednesday that in the letter, it was mentioned that the state’s non-tribal population was 20 per cent when Meghalaya was carved out of Assam in 1972. “Despite being a part of Assam and the Assamese culture for centuries, the Desi Muslims extended their support for a separate hill state with high hopes that their rights and socio-economic aspirations will be protected and accommodated in the new state,” the ACL said.

“In the historic tripartite meeting among the Central government representatives, non-tribal leadership led by then member of District Council Akramuz Zaman and the tribal leadership led by Captain Williamson A. Sangma (Meghalaya’s first Chief Minister), the non-tribals were assured

Meghalaya CM launches cancer care project

of equal opportunities and fair play by the tribal leaders,” the ACL said.

The letter added: “It was also promised that our rights and aspirations, our growth and development will be given equal priority and importance as that of the tribal people of Meghalaya. But the assurances were never fulfilled.”

The ACL pointed out that the present reservation system in Meghalaya not only deprives the meritorious, but has also created a group of people who are subjected to injustice and widespread inequalities. According to the 2011 Census, Christians constitute 74.59 per cent of Meghalaya’s 29.67 lakh populations, while Muslims and Hindus constitute 4.40 per cent and 11.53 per cent, respectively.

Mandaviya deploys 6 teams of doctors for Manipur

New Delhi, May 31 (IANS): In view of the violence in Manipur, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday deployed six teams of doctors in the northeastern state.

In a statement, the Ministry said, “Ministry of Health, under the direction of Minister Mandaviya has deployed several teams of doctors to Manipur with immediate effect.”

The Ministry said that six teams of doctors, with four doctors each specialising in surgery, psychiatry, medicine, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatric, urology and emergency care will support the state to provide health facilities that have been adversely impacted due to the ongoing strife in the State.

The Ministry said that the teams consist of doctors from AIIMS Kalyani, AIIMS Guwahati, and NEIGRIMS Shillong.

Assam govt to procure mustard seeds from farmers

GUWAHATI, MAY 31

(PTI): The Assam government will procure mustard seeds directly from the farmers at a higher rate under the Price Support Scheme (PSS), Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said here on Wednesday. The government has enhanced the minimum support price for mustard seeds to Rs 5,450 per quintal as against the existing market rate of Rs 4500-Rs 4800 per quintal which will bring an additional income of Rs 250 crore to the farmers of the state, Sarma told reporters here.

There are currently two procurement centres -- Raha in Nagaon district and Amingaon in Kamrup -- but the state government has decided to also use the 92 existing paddy procurement centres

along with the nine centres of agricultural marketing for the purpose, Sarma said.

The procurement will be done through the Assam State Agricultural Board and Assam Food and Civil Supplies Corporation as the state-level agencies and NAFED as the central agency, he said. The procurement period will be from May 29 to August 26 and the bank details of the farmers will be shared with NAFED, and within three days of procurement the amounts will be credited to their accounts, he said. “After procurement of paddy at support price, we have decided to extend it to the mustard farmers as this will boost the agriculture sector and also inspire them to go for a second cropping,” he said.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

DEPARTMENT OF POWER: OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ENGINEER DISTRIBUTION & REVENUE NAGALAND : KOHIMA

Dated Kohima 25th May 2023.

No. CEL/RMC/G-3/2592

NOTICE INVITING TENDER

The NIT for Outsourcing of Meter Reading and Bill Delivery in Dimapur, Kohima and Chumukedima Towns (in 3 separate packages) has been uploaded in the e-Tendering portal www.nagalandtenders.gov.in on 25.05.2023. Interested bidders /firms can log in the portal for downloading the Bid Document and participate in the tendering. Chief Engineer (D&R) Department of Power Nagaland : Kohima. DC-664/23

SHILLONG, MAY 31 (PTI): The Meghalaya government declared several villages in Ri-Bhoi and South West Khasi Hills district as infected after lumpy skin disease was detected among cows, officials said on Wednesday.

In state capital Shillong, 20 cows died in the Pynthorumkhrah area and samples were sent for tests to confirm if the deaths were caused by lumpy skin disease, they said.

Sumer, Mawlyngkhung, Umpyrdong-Umden, Umkon-Umden, SaidenNongpoh and Jyntru-Nongpoh in Umsning block in Ri-Bhoi district and Rangthong in Mawkyrwat block in South West Khasi Hills district were declared infected after samples sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal turned out to be positive for lumpy skin disease, they said. The villages were declared infected for disease prevention and control, they added. Similar symptoms were also found among cows in different villages of East Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills districts but locals are yet to inform the veterinary authorities, a local community leader told PTI.

AGARTALA, MAY 31

(PTI): International flight services will start at the Agartala airport as soon as the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) gives clearance on immigration facilitation, a senior official said on Wednesday.

Low-cost carrier SpiceJet is ready to kickstart services between Agartala and Chittagong in Bangladesh but the MHA is yet to notify the setting up of an immigration centre at the airport that will allow foreign travellers to make it the first port of entry, he said.

“We are hoping to get all the relevant protocols cleared from the Centre by mid-June. Once the process is complete, international flight service will start at the earliest,” director of Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport KC Meena told PTI.

At present, four airlines operate 34-36 domestic flights daily from the MBB Airport, which handles around 4,500 passengers per day.

Meanwhile, Vistara will introduce a flight service between Agartala and Bengaluru from August 1. At present, Indigo and Akasa operate three flights on the route, Meena said. “Vistara is scheduled to operate a flight on the Agartala-Bengaluru route from August 1. The flight will arrive here directly from Bengaluru, and on its return journey from Agartala, it will go via Guwahati. It will benefit flyers immensely,” he said.

Chief Minister Manik Saha had urged Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia for the introduction of more flights on the route.

NAGALAND UNIVERSITY

(A central University established by An Act of Parliament 1989) ScHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TEcHNOLOGY CORRIGENDUM

AdMISSION NOTIFIcATION – AcAdEMIc SESSION 2023 - 2024

Last Date for Online Application receipt for Ph.d. Programme is 30th June, 2023. Admission Helpline: 9531211665, 8731826326, 7906748596, 9402992640, 9774066061

Correspondent

SHILLONG, MAY 31:

Chief Minister Conrad

K Sangma launched the Meghalaya Cancer Care or ‘Meg Can Care’ project for screening and early detection of Cancer at U Soso Tham Auditorium here Wednesday.

The programme is an initiative of the Meghalaya Government in collaboration with Apollo Telemedicine Foundation and World Economic Forum.

Pointing out that Meghalaya, especially East Khasi Hills district is ranked at number two in the country in the incidence of cancer cases, Sangma said, “When it comes to esophagus cancer, we are at the number one and this is how serious the problem is and that is why the government, the society and all of us have a very important responsibility on our shoulders to see that the number of cancer cases in the state come down and ensure that lives are saved and lifespan of the citizens increased”.

The Chief Minister further said that health starts right from the time of conception and largely depends on lifestyle and informed

that the annual budget allocated for health sector in Meghalaya has doubled over the last few years.

Noting that Meg Can Care programme is a ‘great initiative’ by the health department, which would make a difference, Sangma said, “We have to realize that a large part of health comes from lifestyle and early detection not only in cancer but all other diseases.

I urge the citizens, especially from East Khasi Hills that we need to take this seriously, and if detected early, 80 percent of cancer cases are curable. Hence, it is absolutely necessary that screening and detection must take place”. Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Sampath Kumar informed that only 16 percent of cancer patients were aware that there is a screening process for cancer.

“A lot of people are not aware that cancer can be screened early and if detected early 80 percent of the cases can be cured,” he said, adding that over 10 percent deaths in the state due to non-communicable diseases can be attributed to cancer.

The CM also launched the cancer helpline number 14410.

FAITH THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE

(Govt. Recognised & Accredited by NATA IATA & GATA)

Associated with Martin Luther Christian University Ura Villa Colony, Dimapur, Nagaland Mobile : 7005091090 / 9856319201 / 8837099195 ADMISSION NOTICE (RESIDENTIAL & CORRESPONDENCE)

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE, NAGALAND :: KOHIMA

NO.PHQ (D-I)TENDER/CPR/23-24 Dated Kohima the 30th May 2023. CORRIGENDUM

In reference to this Office letter even Number Dated 12th May 2023, regarding Notice Inviting Tender for Centrally Purchased Ration (C.P.R) for Nagaland Armed Police and Indian Reserve Battalions for the year 2023 - 2024. The C.P.R. Item at Sl. No. 3 which previously read as “Milk Powder as per FSSAI/BSI Standards (Skim Milk Powder with Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3)” is now changed as below. Sl. No Items Approximate Requirement

1 Tea Leaf: As per FSSAI prescribed standards & Tea Board of India. 50,589 Kgs.

2 Dry Chilly (Red) : Standard Quality 84,315 Kgs.

3 Milk Powder / Dairy Whitener 2,02,356 Kgs. Sd/(RUPIN SHARMA)IPS, Director General of Police, Nagaland: Kohima. DB-663/23

KOHIMA BIBLE COLLEGE

Associate Member of ATA, Affiliated to NATA & Approved by the Govt. of Nagaland P.O. Box – 482, Kohima : Nagaland

Born Again, certain of your call to the ministry, and have the commitment to serve the Lord; you are welcome to Kohima Bible college -The first established Bible college in Nagaland and God’s own ordained place in training men and women for Church Ministry and the Global Mission.

The College: – is Bible-centered, Christ-centered and gives special emphasis on walking in the Anointing power of the Holy Spirit and on the Deliverance ministry. – is committed for Spiritual quality with Academic excellence.

ADMISSION OPEN FOR THE FOLLOWING COURSES: courses offered Eligibility duration

Master of Divinity (Regular & Extension) B.Th / B.A. / B. Sc 2 years

Bachelor of Theology HS (+2) / PUC 3 years HSLC 4 years

Pre-Theology Course Under Matriculate 1 year

• New Admission for the Autumn Semester 2023-2024 for the above mentioned Courses is going on.

• Application forms can be collected from:

1. The College office from Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

2. www.kohimabiblecollege.in to download application form or online admission

For further queries, contact: (M)-9436011961/7005741688

Calls shall be entertained between 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM

Other information remains same. Sd/(V.K VIdYARTHI) Dean DC-669/23

NAGALAND PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

KOHIMA

NO.NPSC/EXAM-2/2023

Kohima Dated, the 31st May, 2023

NOTIFICATION

With reference to the Commission’s Advertisement No.NPSC-2/CTSE (Medical & Allied) 2023 dated 31st March 2023 and Addendum No.NPSC/EXAM3/2023 (Agri., Allied & others) 2023 dated 10th May,2023, this is to notify to all the candidates that:

1. The written examination for Combined Technical Services Examination (Medical & Allied) 2023 will be held from 5th July onwards.

2. Eligible candidates can download the Admission Certificate (containing details of routine, instructions, etc) at https://npsc.nagaland.gov.in from 20th June, 2023 12:00 Noon onwards.

3. Candidates requiring assistance can call up NPSC helpdesk number +91 9402988506 on working days from 20th June, 2023 onwards (10:00 a.m to 03:00 p.m.)

(NUNGSANGMENLA IMcHEN) Secretary, Nagaland Public Service Commission Kohima DC-668/23

held on 6th June 2023 in the Directorate of Information & Public Relations, Nagaland:Kohima.

Lumpy skin disease found in cows in Meghalaya

flight service at Agartala airport to start soon

Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport.

Conrad K Sangma

Sebi proposes more disclosure for high-risk FPIs

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(PTI): To bring greater transparency in the Indian capital markets, Sebi on Wednesday came out with a proposal mandating enhanced disclosures from high-risk Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) that have concentrated holding in a single company or a group firm. These proposals are aimed at preventing possible circumvention of minimum public shareholding (MPS) requirements and potential misuse of the FPI route to guard against the inherent risks of opportunistic takeover of Indian companies, Sebi said in its consultation paper. The proposal has its genesis in the Adani stocks issue where Sebi could not identify the beneficial owners of some foreign portfolio investments in Adani stocks since the existing regulations are lax in identifying the true owners of many investments.

V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, said, under the proposal, the regulator said that highrisk FPIs with concentrated single group equity exposures or significant equity holdings will be mandated to provide additional granular disclosure. They would be required to identify all entities with any ownership, economic interest and control rights.

“Such FPIs shall be required to provide granular data of all entities with any ownership, economic interest, or control rights on a full look–through basis, up to the level of all natural persons and/or public retail funds or large public listed entities,” it said.

Sebi noted that some FPIs have been observed to concentrate a substantial portion of their equity portfolio in a single investee company/company group.

“Such concentrated investments raise the con-

Rupee falls 7 paise to close at 82.74 against US dollar

MUMBAI, MAY 31

GDP forecast of 6.5% for current fiscal looks possible: Govt

cern and possibility that promoters of such corporate groups, or other investors acting in concert, could be using the FPI route for circumventing regulatory requirements such as that of maintaining Minimum Public Shareholding. If this were the case, the apparent free float in a listed company may not be its true free float, increasing the risk of price manipulation in such scrips,” Sebi said.

Also, the regulator has suggested categorising FPIs based on risk. While government and related entities like central banks and sovereign wealth funds have been placed under the low-risk category, pension funds and public retail funds have been clubbed in the category of moderate risk. Further, all other FPIs have been put in the high-risk category.

It has been proposed that high-risk FPIs, holding more than 50 per cent of their equity Asset Under Management (AUM) in

Dev plans for NSA in pipeline: DAN chairman

(From p-1)

Asked about this, Watizulu admitted that the trend was prevalent across Dimapur. He assured that DAN would discuss the matter seriously and that within two to three months, punitive action would be taken after thorough deliberation and investigation.“We have to work out what are the main problems behind these and take actions accordingly,” he added. Watizulu made it clear that NSA was meant to be a commercial centre, but regretted that some of the tenants were using it

for residential purposes. He said DAN would look into the matter and do away with the practice. “Tenants should understand that this is a commercial centre and not a residential complex,” he emphasised.

He said DAN would also conduct checks on sale of liquor and other illegal businesses. He also disclosed that DAN would hold meetings with Tenants’ Association of Naga Shopping Arcade, Dimapur district administration and Business Association of Nagaland to improve ,beautify and

effect a make over of NSA. Even as the DAN chairman shared his plans of a make over for NSA, the area was thronged with hundreds of stalls set up by for sale of local products at the weekly Wednesday market. The DAN had re-allocated and shifted sellers of local products from the roadside above to des-ignated stalls behind the complex. The same area had earlier been declared out of bounds for sellers of local products as the stalls caused problems not only to traffic but also for those visit-ing the shops at the NSA.

Committed to restore peace in Manipur: Shah

(From p-1)

Meanwhile, Manipur chief minister

N Biren Singh appealed to people to surrender weapons looted from security forces and warned of legal action against anyone found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition.

In a signed statement, the chief

minister also appealed to all concerned in Manipur not to block roads or hinder the free movement of security personnel and relief material.

Such roadblocks were making it extremely difficult for security and police personnel to respond to attacks by armed groups on time, Singh said.

(PTI): Falling for the third straight session, the rupee declined by 7 paise to 82.74 (provisional) against the US dollar on Wednesday, as intense selling pressure in domestic equities and a strong greenback overseas dented the sentiment.

Forex traders said the continued inflow of foreign capital and a steep decline in crude price, however, restricted the fall in the domestic unit. The dollar was trading at an elevated level of 104 as a positive development on the US debt ceiling bill boosted investors’ sentiment.

On the domestic front, traders were keeping an eye on the annual GDP data to be released later in the day. At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened weak at 82.71 against the dollar.

The currency touched an intraday low of 82.75 and a high of 82.64.

The unit finally set -

tled at 82.74 (provisional) against the dollar, registering a fall of 7 paise over its previous close.

On Tuesday, the rupee closed at 82.67 against the US currency.

The currency has been registering a fall for the past three sessions.

Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, rose 0.34 per cent to 104.54.

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 1.69 per cent to USD 72.30 per barrel.

In the domestic equity market, the 30-share BSE Sensex declined 346.89 points or 0.55 per cent to 62,622.24. The broader NSE Nifty fell 99.45 points or 0.53 per cent to 18,534.40.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net buyers in the capital market on Tuesday as they purchased shares worth Rs 2,085.62 crore, according to exchange data.

Therie restates legal interpretation of Art 371(A)

(From p-1) He said Imchen’s comment that the July 26, 2010 resolution of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly was “unconstitutional and invalid” was “an insult to the state assembly.”

Therie said Imchen’s condemnation of the assembly resolution implied that he has accepted the misinterpretation of the Centre as “final law” adding that Nagaland cannot lose such provisions without contest.

He maintained that the state assembly “should move a privilege motion against him (Imchen) if the assembly stands by its resolution”.

Therie opined that freedom of expression cannot be used to mislead or distort facts as freedom comes with responsibility and accountability.

If it was asked why Congress could not deliver,

Therie said that there was a lot of opposition to Article 371(A) at that time, alleging that the Act had compromised sovereignty.

Even with regard to temporary exploration of oil, Therie the license had to be cancelled so as to promote understanding for the peace talks. He said Congress had restrained from extensive implementation of Article 371(A) so as not to provoke as its priority was to secure solution to the political problem through peaceful means.

Therie said it was unfortunate that Nagaland lacks an opposition and for which, whether “right of wrong, or good or bad” members would remain dumb, deaf and blind. Therefore, it is for this that the governor of the state has extra responsibilities.

(From p-1)

In a press release, executive engineer, electrical division, Chümoukedima, informed that power transformer damage affected consumers feeding from Dhansiripar station and for which an alternative arrangement was made temporarily from the nearest sub-station. However, the equipment at other stations also loaded to its maximum and unfortunately uninterrupted power supply could not be maintained, but resort to local load shedding.

The department informed that it was trying every means to restore the damaged transformer at the earliest. The affected areas include Selouphe, Singrijan, Sangtamtilla area, Sovima village, Unity village, Sodzulho village, 5th Mile Model Village, 7th Mile village, Deizephe village, Tsithrongse village, Murise village. The department has requested the consumers in the affected area to extend cooperation and bear the inconveniences till power supply was restored back to normal.

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(IANS): With the growth rate for 2022-23 estimated to be 7.2 per cent, the government on Wednesday said that the risks to the GDP forecast of 6.5 per cent for the current fiscal (2023-24) are now evenly balanced than a few months ago.

“We are now prepared to say that risks to our GDP growth forecast of 6.5 per cent for 2023-24 are now more evenly balanced than a few months ago when downside risks to the forecast were greater,” Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) V. Anantha Nageswaran told reporters after GDP data for the fourth quarter of 202223 and for the entire fiscal was released.

According to official data, India posted a GDP growth of 6.1 per cent in the January-March period

of 2022-23 as against 4.4 per cent in the preceding quarter. For the entire 202223, the growth rate was estimated at 7.2 per cent, which is higher than the advanced estimates of 7 per cent, but lower compared to 9.1 per cent recorded in 2021-22.

“I think I can stick my neck out and say that when the revised numbers for FY23 are released next year, there might be an upward revision to the 7.2 per cent GDP growth figure,” Nageswaran added.

“India is on track to achieve the fiscal deficit target of 5.9 per cent of GDP in 2023-24,” he said, adding that there are chances that retail inflation will return to RBI’s medium term target of 4 per cent in 2023-24.

Retail inflation was at an 18-month low of 4.7 per cent in April 2023.

WANTED

Regd. No. : NL07EB2530 Chassis No. : ME4JE914BMG390240

LOST NOTICE

I, Shri. L Yisanbemo Kikon, Hav/GD. 40 Assam Rifles, C/o. 99 APO, S/o. Shri. R. Libomo Kikon, permanent resident of Longla Village district Wokha, Nagaland, change my Children’s date of birth (in my Service Book), (1). Subemo Y Kikon date of birth from 19/09/2008 to 19/09/2009 and (2). Renathung Y Kikon date of birth from 24/06/2014 to 24/08/2014 (i.e. as per their educational records), Vide Affidavit Regd. No. 140/2023 Dated. 31/05/2023. WC-128/23

aFFIDaVIT (change of Name)

I, Shri. L Yisanbemo Kikon, Hav/GD. 40 Assam Rifles, C/o. 99 APO, S/o. Shri. R. Libomo Kikon, permanent resident of Longla Village district Wokha, Nagaland, change my Children’s name (in my Service Book), (1) Subemo Y Kikon, (2) Zaremo Y Kikon and (3) Renathung Y Kikon (i.e. as per educational records), Vide Affidavit Regd. No. 141/2023

‘Beti BJP ke netaon se bachao’: Congress

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(PTI): The Congress on Thursday claimed the BJP’s slogan of ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ now means ‘Beti BJP ke netaon se bachao (save daughters from BJP leaders)’ and also hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not making an appeal to the protesting wrestlers to not immerse their medals in the Ganga.

The Congress’ attack came a day the protesting wrestlers went to Haridwar on the banks of the Ganga, threatening to immerse their medals in the river. However, they were stopped by farmer leaders, who sought five days to address their grievances.

Olympic medallists

Sakshi Malik and Bajrang

Punia and Asian Games gold medallist Vinesh Phogat had gone to Har ki Pauri to protest the inaction against Wrestling Federation of India chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan

Singh who is accused of sexually harassing women female grapplers.

Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters, Congress MP Deepender Hooda said, “These medals are their life, they represent their struggle, their families’ sacrifices and the nation’s pride. What kind of a cruel government is this? We want to ask the prime minister and government as to why they did not even urge the wrestlers not to throw their medals.”

“The prime minister

and ministers, who used to queue up to get photographs with these sportspersons when they won medals, did not even issue an appeal. It sent a message that they are not only anti-sportspersons but also anti-medals,” the Congress leader from Haryana said.

“You talk of Uniform Civil Code, will that not be applicable to BJP leaders. Is there a separate law for them,” Hooda asked. He also accused the BJP of bringing in caste, religion and regionalism in

NSUI protests against inclusion of course on Savarkar in DU syllabus

the course on Savarkar following pressure from the Centre.

There is also a proposal to drop a Philosophy course focusing on the works of Dr BR Ambedkar.

The protesters submitted a memorandum to the university administration opposing the changes to the syllabus.

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(PTI): NSUI activists on Wednesday staged a protest outside Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh’s office over the recent changes in the BA (Political Science) syllabus, including the inclusion of a course on Hindutva ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Teachers on

Saturday claimed that the university has replaced a paper on Mahatma Gandhi in the fifth semester Political Science syllabus with one on Savarkar. On Wednesday, students affiliated with the Congress-backed National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) alleged that the university has included

“The Delhi University administration recently decided that an elective course on the philosophy of Dr BR Ambedkar will be removed from the Philosophy (Honours) undergraduate programme. It is also proposed to teach Savarkar in the Political Science course,” the NSUI said in a statement.

an issue that is about justice for daughters.

“If a girl seeks justice, then getting her justice is raj dharma... When Parliament was being inaugurated, the manner in which women were dragged around, everyone saw,” the Congress leader said.

“Why so much hate for sportspersons? The country is pained that the prime minister did not even ask the wrestlers to not throw their medals in the Ganga,” he said.

The Congress appeals to the protesting wrestlers not to throw their medals in the Ganga as they are hardearned and that they rethink their decision to go on a hunger strike, Hooda said.

He said the Congress is firmly behind the wrestlers in their quest for justice.

Asked whether he would be interested in contesting the WFI polls, the Rajya Sabha MP said he has no interest in the politics of

Mamata takes to streets to protest

the wrestling body and is focused on bringing about change in Haryana.

Speaking at the presser, Olympic medallist boxer and Congress leader Vijender Singh said the entire episode was reminiscent of the 1960 incident when legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, then Cassius Clay, threw his Olympic gold medal into the Ohio river to protest racial segregation in the US.

The way people rallied behind Ali, he said, they must do so now in support of the daughters of the country who are fighting for justice.

The wrestlers, who had been protesting at Jantar Mantar since April 23 seeking the arrest of Singh, were removed from the site by the police on Sunday after they tried to march to the new Parliament building during its inauguration. They were detained before being released later.

MLAs from Shinde’s group in touch with UBT: Sanjay Raut

MUMBAI, MAY 31 (PTI): Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday claimed some lawmakers from the Shiv Sena headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were in touch with the Uddhav Thackeray-led party. His remarks came a day after an editorial in the Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece ‘Saamana’ claimed 22 MLAs and nine MPs from rival Shiv Sena were feeling suffocated due to “step-motherly treatment” by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and could quit the group led by CM Shinde. Asked whether lawmakers from the rival Sena camp are in touch with the Shiv Sena (UBT), Raut, who is the party’s spokesperson, told reporters here,

‘manhandling’ of wrestlers in Delhi

D’Cunha, Rahim Nabi, and Dipendu Biswas and several other sports personalities and common people. State minister Arup Biswas and cricketer-turned-minister Manoj Tiwary spearheaded the rally organised by the sports department to show solidarity towards the protesting wrestlers.

KOLKATA, MAY 31

(PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday took to the streets here to protest against the alleged manhandling of wrestlers at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar after they tried to march towards the new Parliament building following its inauguration three days ago.

Holding a placard with the message, “We Want Justice”, written on it, Ba-

nerjee participated in a rally which started at Hazra Road crossing in the southern part of the city and culminated at Rabindra Sadan, the cultural hub of the eastern metropolis.

Banerjee joined the 2.8-km rally at Bhabanipur, her own constituency.

She was flanked by former women footballers Kuntala Ghosh Dastidar and Shanti Mallick, ex-soccer players Alvito

The wrestlers are demanding the arrest of the Wrestling Federation of India’s former chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh who is accused of sexually harassing several women grapplers. The rally was organised a day after the country’s top wrestlers, including Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, along with hundreds of their supporters, reached Har ki Pauri to immerse their medals in the river Ganga but were persuaded by Khap and farmer leaders not to do so.

Congress chief Kharge, Venugopal to attend Oppn meeting in Patna

“Communication is always there. They (those from the Shinde camp) ventilate their grievance, but it is not right to tell this publicly. They have made a mistake (to leave Uddhav Thackeray) and they have to handle it.”

“Those in the Shinde group will have to contest on the BJP symbol. This is the stand of the BJP. We have this information,” the Rajya Sabha member further said.

Latching on to Shiv Sena MP Gajanan Kirtikar’s remark that his party was getting step-motherly treatment, the editorial in ‘Saamana’ on Tuesday dubbed the Shinde group MLAs and MPs as “hens and cocks” imprisoned in the BJP’s coop and added that it cannot be said when they could be slaughtered.

NEW DELHI, MAY 31 (IANS): As the proposed meeting of non-NDA opposition politicians is slated in Patna on June 12, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and several other top leaders of the party will be attending the meeting.

The first meeting of the Opposition parties will take place in Patna on June 12 to discuss a joint strategy for the 2024 general elections. According to sources, more than 18 like-minded Opposition parties will attend the conclave.

Ahead of the crucial meeting, a Congress source said that Kharge, party general secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal, besides some more leaders will be attending

the meeting. The source said that former party chief Rahul Gandhi is also likely to attend the meeting if he returns from the US trip by June 11.

Rahul Gandhi left for US on May 30 and he will be attending several programmes in US with the Indian diaspora, venture capitalists, tech executives, students, senior technology executives from Silicon Valley on artificial intelligence, to deliver a lecture at Stanford University, and on the same evening meet with the Indian diaspora besides many others.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has been spearheading the campaign to unite all like-minded

parties to forge an alliance against the BJP-led NDA for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Nitish Kumar, along with his deputy and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav had already met Kharge, Rahul Gandhi last month as well as this month.

The Janata Dal-United leader has also met NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, CPIM leader Sitaram Yechury, CPI leader D Raja, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, BJD leader Naveen Patnaik, Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackaeray and others in a bid to bring all the like-minded together.

CHENNAI, MAY 31

(IANS): Tamil Nadu Health

Minister Ma Subramanian will soon visit New Delhi to meet the concerned authorities following the cancellation of recognition of three medical colleges in the state.

The Minister, while speaking to reporters on Wednesday, said: “It is not appropriate to say that we will cancel recognition of medical colleges for minor grievances and if there are deficiencies, government will certainly rectify.”

The three medical colleges in Tamil Nadu that have lost recognition from the National Medical Commission are Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai, KAP

Viswanathan Government Medical College in Tiruchi and Government Dharmpauri Medical College and Hospital, Dharmapuri.

Several medical colleges across the country have lost their recognition in the past few months. This is primarily because these colleges did not follow the standards set by the National Medical Commission. Several colleges in many states were found to be not complying with the National Medical Commission standards and hence, lost recognition or are about to lose it. The Under Graduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) have penalised the three government medical colleges in Tamil Nadu for deficiencies in Aadhaarbased biometric attendance and footage of cameras installed in these colleges.

Mamata Banerjee participates in a rally in support of protesting wrestlers, in Kolkata, Wednesday. (PTI)

Congress leaders Vijender Singh and Deepender Hooda at AICC headquarters, in New Delhi, Wednesday. (PTI)

NSUI protest outside the Delhi University.

Ma Subramanian

Cong, BJP spar over Rahul’s remarks against Modi

NEW DELHI, MAY

31 (PTI): The Congress and the BJP sparred over Rahul Gandhi’s “one such specimen” remark made in the US against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the ruling party slamming him as a “fake Gandhi” who “insults” India on foreign soil.

Addressing an event in Santa Clara in the US, Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Modi, describing him as a “specimen”, who could start explaining to God how the universe worked.

Leading the attack on Gandhi, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur claimed that the Congress goes abroad on “sponsored programmes” for “anti-India propaganda” to insult the country on foreign soil.

The Congress hit back, saying these are “made-up distractions” by Modi and his “drum beaters”. It also said the former party chief’s comments and beliefs have always been in the best

interests of the country.

“Rather than being a mere event, the Bharat Jodo Yatra has become a transformational movement. It continues to resonate with millions of Indians here and around the world because it gave them a platform to raise their issues,” Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said on Twitter, tagging Gandhi’s tweet on his remarks in the US.

“The real issues hurting our people are unemployment, soaring price rise and the spread

of anger and hatredcompletely made-up distractions by the PM and his drum beaters will not change that,” he said. Asked about the BJP’s criticism of Gandhi during a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Congress MP Deepender Hooda said, the former party chief’s statements and beliefs have always been in the best interest of the country. “No person should think of being synonymous with the country,” he said. Thakur further said

Extortion racket linked to Lawrence Bishnoi gang busted; three held

CHANDIGARH, MAY 31 (PTI): Punjab Police on Wednesday said it has busted an extortion racket backed by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi with the arrest of its three operatives who used to run an online gambling platform to lure the victims.

Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab

Gaurav Yadav said the state special operation cell in Mohali initiated a coordinated action into the case, leading to the arrest of Rohit Bharadwaj of Zirakpur, and Mohit Bharadwaj and Arjun Thakur, both residents of Chandigarh.

The accused used to convince the victims into joining the online gambling platform ‘Diamond Exchange’ by promising them high profits in exchange of a nominal betting fee, the state police chief said.

“Initially, the victims would win some rewards, but would then start losing money. The accused would then offer them lakhs of rupees on credit so that they

can continue betting on the platform,” he said.

Once the victims availed the credit, the accused used to charge hefty interest which could sometimes run into crores. When the victims showed unwillingness to return the amount, the accused would make threatening calls to them through their gangster associates sitting in jail and abroad, the DGP said in a

Unemployment allowance transfered in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR, MAY 31

(PTI): Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday disbursed Rs 32.35 crore as the second instalment of the unemployment allowance into the bank accounts of 1.05 lakh beneficiaries, and said he would be happier if these youths actually get jobs. Under the scheme, the state government pays Rs 2,500 monthly allowance to each beneficiary. The first instalment of Rs 16.54 crore was transferred into the bank accounts of 66,256 beneficiaries on April 30, officials said.

The chief minister transferred the second instalment amount during a function held at his official residence here.

“The unemployed youths are being provided assistance through this scheme, but I would be happier when you get employed,” he said while addressing the gathering of youths present there.

Advertisements for recruitment into various departments are continuously being released. At the same time, the government has also been imparting skill development training so that youths could start their own business. Unemployment allowance is just a small assistance through which you could achieve your goals, he added.

Bhupesh Baghel

This allowance will help in buying books for competitive exams and other things. The state government has waived the examination fees for the youth of Chhattisgarh in exams conducted by the Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board and the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC), he added.

Meanwhile, opposition Bharatiya Janata Party’s Chhattisgarh unit chief Arun Sao accused the ruling Congress of misleading the youths in the state.

The Congress government has broken the dreams of youths in the state and they are filled with anger, he alleged.

During his Republic Day address this year, CM Baghel had announced that unemployed youths will be given a monthly allowance of Rs 2,500 in the state from April. It was one of the key promises made by the Congress ahead of the 2018 Assembly election, in which the grand old party returned to power in the state after a gap of 15 years.

Gandhi likened the alleged targeting of Muslims in India to what used to happen to Dalits in Uttar Pradesh in the 1980s but forgot to tell people that it was the Congress that was in power in the country and the state then. In his address, the Congress leader also alleged that other minorities like Sikhs and Christians, besides Dalits and tribals, were also being targeted. Slamming him for criticising the state of affairs in India under the Modi government, Thakur said it has become a habit of the Congress leader to insult the country as he does not consider India a nation.

The BJP leader alleged that Gandhi had himself said so earlier. “Who are the people behind such programmes and whose platforms are used for such anti-India campaigns? These questions had risen even during Gandhi’s last foreign visit and this time too, his visit has started by defaming India,” Thakur said.

Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi claimed that the Congress leader’s knowledge of history did not go beyond his family. “It is funny how someone who knows nothing is suddenly an expert on everything. A man whose knowledge of history does not go beyond his family is talking about history,” the senior BJP leader said.

“No Mr Fake Gandhi! The core of India is its culture. Unlike you, who use foreign soil to tarnish the country, Indians are very proud of their history and can very well defend their geography,” he said.

Gandhi, 52, told Indian-Americans in the US that the idea of India was under attack and being challenged. BJP chief spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member Anil Baluni said it is in the Congress’ character to defame the country and conspire against it.

Unemployment, price rise real issues, made-up distractions by PM: Cong

NEW DELHI, MAY 31 (PTI): Asserting that the real issues hurting the people of the country are unemployment, a soaring price rise and the spread of hatred, the Congress on Wednesday said completely “made-up distractions” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his “drum beaters” will not change that.

The opposition party’s assertion came after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks in the United States targeting Modi.

Slamming the BJP for its criticism of Gandhi, the Congress said the former party chief’s statements and beliefs have always been in the best interest of the country.

“Rather than being a mere event, the Bharat Jodo Yatra has become a transformational

movement. It continues to resonate with millions of Indians, here and around the world because it gave them a platform to raise their issues,” Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh wrote on Twitter, tagging Gandhi’s tweet on his remarks made in the US.

“The real issues hurting our people are unemployment, soaring price rise and the spread of anger and hatred -- completely made-up distractions by the PM and his drum beaters will not change that,” Ramesh said.

Asked about the BJP’s criticism of Gandhi at a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Congress MP Deepender Hooda said the former party chief’s statements and beliefs have always been in the best interest of the country.

“No party should be under the delusion of imagining itself as the

country. No person should think of being synonymous with the country,” he said. Gandhi, in a tweet in Hindi on his remarks made at the “Mohabbat ki Dukaan” event organised by the Indian Overseas Congress, USA in Santa Clara in the US state of California, said, “Message of Bharat Jodo Yatra -- walk together and keep opening ‘shops of love in the market of hate’.”

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi hit back at Gandhi for his remarks made in the US targeting the prime minister. Joshi described the former Congress president as a “fake Gandhi” and as a person “who knows nothing” but has become an expert in everything.

Speaking in the US, Gandhi said there are people in India who think they know more than the god and Modi is “one such specimen”.

Energy, trade cooperation set to be focus of Modi-Prachanda talks

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(PTI): Boosting IndiaNepal cooperation in areas of energy, connectivity and trade is set to be the focus of talks on Thursday between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’. ‘Prachanda’ arrived in Delhi on Wednesday afternoon on a four-day visit to India, his first bilateral trip abroad after assuming the top office in December 2022.

Nepal is important for India in the context of its overall strategic interests in the region, and the leaders of the two countries have often noted the age-old “Roti Beti” relationship.

statement.

During the investigation, police verified various payment gateways and the bank accounts to which the money was transferred, he said, adding that proceedings to freeze the bank accounts have been initiated.

Investigations are on to identify the owner of the fraudulent website, DGP Yadav said.

Transforming the civilisational ties between India and Nepal with deeper cooperation in areas of connectivity, economy, energy and infrastructure is expected to be a focus area of talks between Modi and Prachanda on Thursday, people familiar with the matter said.

One of the key priority areas would be to further deepen the power sector cooperation through new initiatives across the entire

OFFICE OF THE KHUKIYE LUKHAI GHAMI KUPOSHUKULU Dimapur (KLGKD) Dimapur – 797112: Nagaland.

FELICITATION

The Khukiye Lukhai Ghami Kuposhukulu Dimapur (KLGKD) would like to congratulate all the successful candidates of HSLC and HSSLC from NBSE/CBSE Examination 2023.

KLGKD further wishes and prays that Almighty God continue to bless and guide all the students for more excellent achievement in the future.

GHUSHETO ZHIMOMI KATOVI JIMO President, KLGKD Gen. Secretary, KLGKD DP-2505/23

spectrum of cooperation, they said. The India-Nepal joint vision statement on power sector cooperation of April last year is considered a milestone and Nepal has been exporting over 450 MW of electricity to India.

The two prime ministers are also likely to review the India-Nepal development partnership which forms the key pillar of the bilateral relations. Strengthening the financial connectivity

between two countries would be a discussion point, said one of the people cited above. In April last year, RuPay card was launched in Nepal during the visit of the then Nepalese prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba to India.

Prachanda was received at the airport in Delhi by Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi.

Previously, he visited India in 2016 and in 2008 in

O FFIcE OF THE olD cHanGSU StUDentS’ Union

Wokha : Nagaland Felicitation

With immense pride, the OCSU would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to the following persons for their outstanding achievements and bringing laurels to the Old Changsu community.

1. Mr. Renathung c Ngullie , S/o. Mr. P Chonchio Ngullie for being conferred the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) under the Dept. of Chemistry on the thesis titled – “Fabrication and Characterization of Biomass derived Multifunctional Carbon Nanocomposites for Photocatalysis and Antimicrobial Activity” from St. Joseph University, Chumoukedima, Nagaland.

2. Mr. Zuchanbemo Humtsoe , S/o Mr. Jenithung Humtsoe for securing Top 8th Position (Science Stream) in the recently declared HSSLC Examination conducted by NBSE.

The Union further congratulates all the OCSU students who have cleared the HSLC & HSSLC examination 2023 and wishes them the best for their future endeavours. Sd/- Sd/Eyingbemo Shitiri Epithung Patton President General Secretary WC -XXX/23

O FFIcE OF THE Govt. HiGH ScHool ManGMetonG Mokokchung : Nagaland ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Head Teacher, faculty and students of GHS Mangmetong wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to the following well-wishers for their generous donation of ICT essentials to the school:

1. Mr & Mrs. Longdiba Sangtem, SDO(C) (2Desktop)

2. Dr & Mrs. B.M. Sunep Imchen (1Desktop and Laptop each)

3. Mr Alemjungshi Imchen (2 Desktop)

4. Mr & Mrs. Taochir Imchen (1Desktop)

At a time when the school was really in need of these ICT materials to garner to the needs of the students, our prayers have been answered by these esteemed individuals. These donated items will go a long way in fulfilling the school's curriculum and be an impetus for the holistic development of our students. May God continue to bless all the donors in all their endeavors.

Sd/Longrimendang Head Teacher In charge GHS Mangmetong MKC-XXX/23

his capacity as the Nepalese prime minister. “PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport.The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted. A high-level delegation is accompanying Prachanda.

He and Prime Minister Modi will hold talks on Thursday following which both sides are expected to ink a number of agreements. The Nepalese prime minister is also scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.

Nepal is considered an important country for New Delhi as it shares a border of over 1850 km with five Indian states – Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Land-locked Nepal relies heavily on India for the transportation of goods and services.

Nepal’s access to the sea is through India, and it imports a predominant proportion of its requirements from and through India. The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 forms the bedrock of the special relations between the two countries. On Friday morning, the Nepalese prime minister will travel to Indore and will leave for Kathmandu the next day.

OFFICE OF THE KANDI PUBLIC UNION

H.Q. K. STATION P.O TSEMINYU FELICITATION

The Kandi Public Union (KPU) extends its heartiest congratulations to all the successful candidates of HSLC & HSSLC 2023 from Kandi Range. Our special congratulations to :-

1. Ms. Thronglila Rengma, D/o Mr Phayamo Apon Top 10 rank 5, 94.20% HSSLC Sc. stream.

2. Mr. Achen Apon Top 10 rank 10, 92.40% HSSLC Sc. stream.

3. Dr.Adiya Apon, D/o Mr.Inashi Apon on being appointed as Asstt. Professor at NMSR.

4. Dr. Handilo Kath, S/o Mr. Joel Kath successfully completed superspeciality (Oncology) presently working at Referal Hospital CIHSR Dimapur.

5. Dr. Meshensi Apon, D/o Mr.Sachu Apon on being awarded the Doctorate of Philosophy (Agronomy) Nagaland University, Medziphema campus.

6. Shri Khikeya Kath, S/o Lt.Shenthile Kath promoted to Additional Director Geology & Mining Department Govt. of Nagaland.

7. Graduate Teacher promoted to AHM/JEO School Education

1) Kathu Kath, S/o Lt.Pukhashe Kath

2) Thangsenlo Kath, S/o Lt.Lukeya Kath

3) Ahichu Kath, S/o Lt.Pikhalo Kath

4) Khikeya Kez, S/o Lt.Mehaipfü Kez

5) Phayamo Apon, S/o Saghathang Apon

6) Ponchülo Wanth, S/o Thankepa Wanth

7) Mehilo Apon, S/o Sachu Apon Research Assistant. The Union wishing you all a bright future.

Hethinon Mesen John Kath

General Secretary President K -1254/23

OFFIcE OF THE

KHENSA

VILLAGE COUNCIL

Mokokchung - 798601, Nagaland ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Khensa Village Council would like to acknowledge few bodies and individuals that had contributed in putting off the ghastly fire during the calamitous accident that occurred at midnight on 30/05/2023 in Khensa Village. Three (3) houses were burned down and caused minor damages to one (1) house.

1. Fire Department Mokokchung (3 Brigades)

2. Mokokchung EAC Ongpangkong Dobashi’s

The fire brigades came in the right time and put off the fire not leading to further damages. We council would like to thank every individuals and bodies that had help in putting off the fire.

Sd/- Sd/ (I.ALEMMEREN LONGcHAR) (ZULUTOSHI) Chairman Secretary Khensa Village Council Khensa Village Council MKC

Rahul Gandhi during an interaction with activists, academics at the University of California, Santa Cruz, USA. (PTI)

Those arrested have been identified as Rohit Bharadwaj alias Rimmi of Zirakpur, Mohit Bharadwaj and Arjun Thakur of Chandigarh.

Artists perform to welcome Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, in New Delhi, Wednesday. (PTI)

After Karnataka defeat, Modi’s ‘85% commission’ jibe in Rajasthan

AJMMER, MAY 31 (AGENCIES):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at Congress over corruption, accusing it of taking 85 per cent commission in each development project, reports Hindustan Times.

“Our country never had a shortage of money for development work.… Congress is a party that takes a cut of 85% commission in every project. We were able to do development because we plugged the leakages created by the Congress party”, Modi said at a rally in Ajmer in poll-bound Rajasthan.

The prime minister’s attack comes weeks after the saffron party’s defeat in Karnataka, wherein its previous government was dubbed as ‘40% commission Sarkara’ by Congress during poll campaigns.

Continuing his attack, Modi said, “When it comes to loot, Congress does not discriminate between anyone. It loots every citizen including poor, oppressed, tribals, minorities, women

and Divyangs”. The PM also took a veiled swipe at the ongoing tussle within the Congress.

“After several years, you made a stable government at the Centre in 2014. The BJP has respected your mandate. But you gave a mandate in Rajasthan five years ago. What did Rajasthan get in return? Instability and anarchy. For the past five years, ministers, MLAs and the CM are busy fighting with each other”, Modi said, referring to the hostilities between CM Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot.

The rally was organised to mark the completion

Siddaramaiah asserts committment to guarantees

This is Congress party’s biggest treachery with the poor. Congress’ strategy has been to trick the poor. People of Rajasthan have suffered due to this”, Modi said, in an apparent jibe at the Congress’ guarantee promise to the voters in Karnataka.

BENGALURU, MAY 31 (PTI): Asserting that his government will implement the five poll ‘guarantees’ promised ahead of the assembly polls, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said officials have shared their inputs on financial implications, and the cabinet will meet on June 2 to decide on the implementation.

of nine years of the Modi government across its two terms. “What was the situation prior to 2014?

People were on the streets against corruption, there used to be terrorist attacks in big cities, Congress Govt was scared of building roads at borders, crime against women was high, there was a superpower above the PM, Congress Govt was functioning through a remote control...”, he added. “This ‘guarantee habit’ of Congress is not new, it is old. 50 years back, Congress gave the ‘garibi hatao’ guarantee to the country.

Union ministers thank PM, people of India on nine years of Modi govt

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(PTI): Union ministers on Wednesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for completing nine years in office and thanked him for implementing initiatives on a scale never thought of before.

At a meeting of the Union Cabinet, chaired by the prime minister, the ministers also thanked the people of the country for giving Modi an opportunity to serve for a second term in 2019. “I take pride in saying that the Modi government has completed nine years of ‘seva, susashan, garib kalyan (service, good governance and welfare of the poor)’.

All ministers thanked the prime minister and the people of the country who

Anurag Thakur (PTI)

gave Modi an opportunity to serve again,” Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said while briefing reporters here after the meeting.

Modi won a second term in office after the BJP swept the Lok Sabha elections in 2019, bagging 303 seats in the 543-member House. The prime minister took the oath of office on May 30, 2019.

Thakur said in the

past nine years, 3.5 crore pucca homes were built and handed over to the poor while 9.6 crore households got free LPG connections.

The minister said the government built 12 crore toilets and also provided tap water connection to 12 crore households in the past three-and-a-half years. The Modi government is also implementing the world’s biggest healthcare initiative where 60 crore people are eligible for Rs 5 lakh as medical insurance, he said.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government ensured 220 crore vaccine doses were administered and 160 countries received vaccines from India under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, the minister added.

Referring to the opposition’s criticism of him inaugurating the new parliament, Modi said,”... Achievements of India, success of the people of India is not digestible to a few people. India got a new Parliament building. Are you not proud of the new Parliament?... But Congress & some other parties like it threw mud of politics at it... They are angry that how is the son of a poor standing before their ego? They are angry that the why is son of the poor not allowing their arbitrariness? They are angry that why is son of the poor questioning their corruption & dynasty?...”

Before his rally, the prime minister had offered prayers at the famous Brahma temple in Pushkar.

The cabinet meeting was earlier scheduled for June 1. In view of the implementation of guarantees, the Chief Minister today held a meeting with all the Ministers and senior officials of the concerned departments at Vidhana Soudha, the seat of state secretariat and legislature, here.

“We had given five guarantees to the people, regarding these five guarantees concerned officials and finance department officials have made a presentation together. All the Ministers have seen the presentation, it has all the details -- proposals and financial implications of the implementation,” Siddaramaiah said.

Punjab Police conducts crackdown on drug smuggling

CHANDIGARH, MAY 31 (PTI): As many as 650 police teams, involving over 5,500 police personnel, carried out raids at 2,247 locations and conducted searches at 2,125 houses as Punjab Police Wednesday launched a statewide crackdown on those allegedly involved in the smuggling of commercial quantities of drugs, officials said.

The operation was conducted on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav between 7 am and 12 noon today, an official statement said.

Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla said places and houses linked with alleged drug smugglers and peddlers

were raided simultaneously during the operation. In order to carry out raids in a synchronised manner, senior police officials were asked to personally monitor the operation, and form sufficient numbers of police teams under the supervision of gazetted rank officers, he added. Shukla said police teams recovered 1.8 kg heroin, 82 kg poppy husk, 1 kg opium, Rs 5.35 lakh cash and four weapons, besides recovering illicit liquor, lahan (raw material used to make liquor) and some vehicles. Forty-eight First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered across the state. Police also seized 78 mobile phones, which will be sent for forensic examination.

Speaking to reporters here after the meeting, the CM said, “we have not discussed in today’s meeting, discussion and decision will be on the day after. On Friday at 11 AM, I have convened the cabinet meeting, where we will discuss, and after that our decision will be made known to you.”

“But, the government has taken a call to implement all the five guarantees. It is a guarantee that we will implement the guarantees,” he added.

The Congress had promised to implement the ‘guarantees’ - 200 units of free power to all households (Gruha Jyoti), Rs 2,000 monthly assistance to the woman head of every family (Gruha Lakshmi), 10 kg of

rice free to every member of a BPL household (Anna Bhagya), Rs 3,000 every month for unemployed graduate youth and Rs 1,500 for unemployed diploma holders (both in the age group of 18-25) (YuvaNidhi), and free travel for women in public transport buses (Shakti), on the very first day of assuming power in the state.

There is mounting pressure on the new government from opposition parties and various sections of people from across the state, to fulfill its five guarantees as promised ahead of polls.

Asked whether the five guarantees will be implemented at once or one after the other, the CM said, “All those things have not

been decided yet, it will be discussed and decided in the cabinet.”

To a query about BJP’s criticism, he said, “let BJP (central govt) fulfill whatever they had promised, before questioning us. We will implement what we had promised, we had implemented earlier too, we will do it even now.”

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar told media that officials shared inputs in today’s meeting and also gave four to five options regarding the implementation of the guarantees, and what would be the financial impact.

“Following officials sharing their opinion and inputs, some of us (Ministers) have also shared our view, and we have asked officials to rework and present it before the cabinet. As they sought time, there is no cabinet tomorrow, it has been postponed by a day -- to Friday. We will discuss and let you know.”

Appealing to people to avoid any kind of “gossip” on this matter, Shivakumar said the state government is aware of the promises made by the Congress ahead of elections and also the financial implications.

Shahbad Dairy murder accused taken to crime scene to recreates events

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(PTI): The Delhi Police on Wednesday recreated the scene of crime at the same bylane in northwest Delhi’s Shahbad Dairy where 20-year-old Sahil killed a minor girl, officials said.

Sixteen-year-old Sakshi was stabbed over 20 times and then bludgeoned with a cement slab, killing her on the spot. She was found to have 34 injury marks on her body and her skull was smashed in.

Sahil was arrested from Bulandshahar in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. He was taken to the spot in the early hours of Wednesday, the police said.

“Due to security concerns, Sahil was taken to the spot in the early hours

Science, Arts most popular streams over last 10 yrs, commerce has stagnated: MoE

NEW DELHI, MAY

31 (PTI): Science and

Arts have been the most popular streams among students over the last 10 years while commerce has stagnated with only 14 per cent students opting for it, according to a study conducted by the Ministry of Education. The study, which is an assessment of Class 10 and 12 board exam results, noted that there are huge variations in choice of streams across states.

“Only 2 per cent students in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Telangana opt for Arts stream but

in states like Tripura and Gujarat over 82 per cent students choose the stream while in states like Punjab and Rajasthan the percentage of such students is above 70,” it said.

Similarly, the popularity of science stream is extremely low in Punjab, Haryana and Assam where just about 17 per cent students opt for it, whereas in states such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu, more than 60 per cent students choose science to study after class 12.

“In Goa and Karnataka, distribution of

students is almost similar in major streams,” the report said. A large difference in performance of students from various boards, significant variation in pass percentages and no level playing field for students in terms of standard are among the challenges identified by the ministry in the assessment.

According to School Education Secretary, Sanjay Kumar, this difference between pass percentages of various states has led the education ministry to now look at standardising the assessment pattern for all 60 school boards across states

in the country. Currently, there are three central boards in India – Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) and the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). Apart from these, various states have their own state boards, taking the total number of school boards to 60.

The study analysed the Class 10 and 12 results for state boards of – Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, Kerala, Manipur, Odisha, West Bengal and Telangana

to understand the variation in results for different state boards. Based on the report, all states have been asked to work on the standardisation process of assessment. “A meeting in this

regard was held earlier this month wherein the presentation was shared with the states and concerns about developing a common assessment system was discussed,” Kumar added.

The accused Sahil

of Wednesday morning. We recreated the scene of the crime to understand and establish the sequence of events and how he executed the crime and what he did thereafter,” a senior police officer.

Sahil allegedly threw away the knife used to kill Sakshi into the bushes in Rithala. It is yet to be recovered, he said.

The police had earlier said Sahil got drunk on Sunday afternoon and in the evening confronted Sakshi, who was on her way to the birthday party of her friend’s child after changing clothes in a public convenience. After killing her, Sahil went to a nearby park and sat there for a while.

Later, he went to the metro station at Rithala where he claimed to have thrown the knife in the nearby bushes. He then took a bus to Bulandshahr from the Anand Vihar ISBT, the police said. A call to his home led to his arrest.

On Tuesday, Sahil was produced at a Delhi court here which sent him in police remand for two days.

DP-2497/23

Regd. No. 1158

AFFIDAVIT (Declaration)

DP-2494/23

Date 31/5/2023

I, Smti. Krusaneinu Winniefred, resident of Khuzama Village, Kohima district, Nagaland, do hereby solemnly affirm on oath and declare as follows:-

1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India

2. That my correct and official name is Krusaneinu Winniefred.

3. That however in some of my Official documents my name has entered and recorded as Krusaninu Wanniefred(National Pension System bearing Account No. 110013244501) and Krusaneino (Appointment Order).

4. That the names Krusaneinu Winniefred, Krusaninu Wanniefred and Krusaneino refers to one and the same person i.e., myself.

5. That this affidavit is made to declare that my correct and official name is Krusaneinu Winniefred and the same shall be used for all official purpose, future references and correspondence.

6. That this affidavit shall also be used as a piece of evidence of the fact and proof as mentioned above and also to be used for any rectification if arises in future.

That the statements from Para 1-6 are true to the best of my knowledge and nothing false has been stated. And sign this affidavit before the competent authority Kohima, Nagaland, on this the 31 day of May, 2023. Deponent Notary Public/ Magistrate K-1257/23

Regd. No. : 256/2021

AFFIDAVIT

Date : 20/04/2021

I, smti. aKuMla JaMir, D/o. Late Talikangba @ Tali, resident of PWD Rental Housing Complex, PWD Colony, Dimapur, Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under:-

1. That, I am a bonafide citizen of India and a resident of the above mentioned address.

2. That, my official name is "AKUMLA JAMIR" as entered/recorded in my Aadhaar Card and other documents, however, in some of my official documents my name has been inadvertently entered/recorded as "RONGSENKUMLA", "RONGSENKUMLA JAMIR" and "AKUMLA AO".

3. That, the names "RONGSENKUMLA", "RONGSENKUMLA JAMIR" and "AKUMLA AO" belongs to the same and single person only i.e. me.

4. That, wherever such names "RONGSENKUMLA", "RONGSENKUMLA JAMIR" and "AKUMLA AO" appears it should be construed as the same and single person by all concern for all my official purposes.

5. That, this Affidavit is made to declare before the competent office/ authority that the above mentioned names belong to same and one person only i.e. me.

That, the statement made by me from Para 1 to 5 are all true and correct to the best of my knowledge, belief and information and nothing material is concealed therein.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a public meeting in Ajmer, Wednesday. (PTI)

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during a meeting with State Ministers and senior officers of the state. (PTI)

SNIPPETS

Pak slams IMF’s ‘intervention’ in internal matters

ISLAMABAD, MAY 31

(IANS): Pakistan State Minister for Finance and Revenue Aisha Ghaus

Pasha on Wednesday slammed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for “intervening” in Pakistan’s internal matters, local media reported. “Pakistan’s conduct is in line with the law,” the state minister said, terming IMF Mission Chief for Pakistan Nathan Porter’s statement - regarding the political situation in Pakistan - “extraordinary”. While the IMF does not comment on domestic politics, Porter had said that the Fund hopes “a peaceful way forward is found in line with the Constitution and the rule of law”.

New Zealand-Britain FTA takes effect

WELLINGTON, MAY

31 (IANS): New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on Wednesday announced that Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between his country and the UK has come into force. In a statement, Hipkins said that the benefits which will begin flowing from the FTA will provide a further big boost to New Zealand’s economy and will bring an up to NZ$1 billion ($600 million) increase to the country’s annual GDP, Xinhua news agency reported.“The economy is through the worst, with inflation having peaked and returning to the target range next year, good growth, and more workers coming in to help with skill shortages,” Hipkins said.

106 criminal cases linked to US forces in Japan last year

TOKYO, MAY 31

(IANS): The number of criminal cases which involved Japanese police investigating US military personnel, civilian employees and their families as suspects in 2022 came to 106, local media reported. The cases included 54 in the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa, 17 in Kanagawa, 14 in Tokyo and 13 in Yamaguchi prefecture, which all host US military bases, Xinhua news agency quoted the local media citing government sources as saying. Of the 106 cases, violations of laws other than the criminal code, such as the road traffic law and the stimulant control law, accounted for 44.

Nepal

PM embarks on 4-day visit to India

KATHMANDU, MAY

31 (IANS): Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Wednesday embarked on a four-day official visit to India at the invitation of his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi. In a statement, the Foreign Ministry in Kathmandu said Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, is being accompanied by his daughter Ganga Dahal and an official delegation comprising Foreign Minister Prakash Sharan Mahat, Finance Minister Shakti Basnet, Energy, Minister Prakash Jwala, Physical Infrastructure & Transport Minister Ramesh Rijal, Chief Secretary, Secretaries, and senior government officials. The Prime Minister was sent off at the VVIP lounge of the Tribhuvan International Airport by the Speaker of the House of Representatives Dev Raj Ghimire, Chairman of the National Assembly Ganesh Timilsina, deputy prime ministers, ministers, and top officials.

Rahul says PM Modi thinks he knows more than God, calls him ‘specimen’

SANTA CLARA (US), MAY 31 (PTI): There are people in India who think they know more than God and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is “one such specimen”, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said.

Reacting sharply to Gandhi’s targeting of Prime Minister Modi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday described the former Congress president as a “fake Gandhi” and as a person “who knows nothing” but has become an expert on everything.

Speaking at the ‘Mohabbat Ki Dukaan’ event organised by Indian Overseas Congress USA in Santa Clara in the US state of California on Tuesday, Gandhi said these people are “absolutely convinced” that they know everything and can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army.

“The world is too big and complicated for any person to know everything. That is the disease…There is a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced they know everything. They think they know even more than God.

Rahul Gandhi during an interaction with activists, academics and others at the University of California. (PTI )

“They can sit with God and explain to him what’s going on. And of course, our prime minister is one such specimen. If you sat Modiji with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what have I created,” he said, evoking peals of laughter from hundreds of his Indian American supporters. “They think they can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. But at the core of it is mediocrity. They’re not ready to listen!” he said.

Responding to Gandhi’s speech, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Joshi claimed that the Congress

Blast in east Lebanon kills 5 in base controlled by Palestinian faction

DAMASCUS, MAY 31

leader’s knowledge of history did not go beyond his family. “It is funny how someone who knows nothing is suddenly an expert on everything. A man whose history knowledge does not go beyond his family is talking about history,” the senior BJP leader said in New Delhi.

“A man who claimed to produce gold out of potatoes is giving lectures about science and a man who never ventured beyond family affairs now wants to lead India’s warfare,” Joshi said.

“No Mr. Fake Gandhi! The core of India is its culture. Unlike you, who use foreign soil to tarnish the country, Indians are very

China facing more complex security challenges: President Xi warns

BEIJING, MAY 31 (PTI): China is facing more complex and difficult security concerns, President Xi Jinping has said, as he warned citizens to prepare for “worst-case and extreme scenarios,” amid deepening tensions with the United States and the European Union.

Xi, who presided over a meeting of the National Security Commission on Tuesday, said the complexity and severity of national security problems faced by the country increased dramatically, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

“The national security front must build up strategic self-confidence, have enough confidence to secure victory, and be keenly aware of its own strengths and advantages,” he said.

The report said that it was stressed at the meeting that “we must be prepared for worst-case and extreme scenarios, and be ready to

Xi Jinping

withstand the major test of high winds, choppy waters, and even dangerous storms”.

“More efforts must be made to modernise our national security system and capacity, and be prepared for actual combat and in dealing with practical problems,” it said.

Documents including “guidelines on speeding up the building of risk monitoring and early warning system for national security” and “guidelines on strengthening extensive public education about national security” were deliberated and adopted at the meeting.

Xi, 69, has been plac-

ing more emphasis on ramping up security and increasing the combat levels of the troops ever since he was reelected as head of the ruling Communist Party of China for an unprecedented third time last year. He is the only leader after the party found Mao Zedong to continue in power for more than two five-year terms. This is not the first time that Xi highlighted the security situation faced by China.

In March, he accused Washington of leading Western suppression against China. In recent times, Xi has ramped up the security rhetoric as China is increasingly pitted against the US on numerous fronts, including in Taiwan and the South China Sea.

Washington has also sanctioned numerous Chinese tech firms on security concerns, which Beijing said was aimed at stifling its growth.

Trump vows to end birthright citizenship if he wins in 2024

WASHINGTON, MAY 31 (IANS): Former US

President Donald Trump has vowed to end birthright citizenship for children of unauthorised immigrants if he wins the 2024 election. The 14th Amendment of the Constitution, adopted following the Civil War, declares that all “persons born or naturalized in the United States” are “citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside”, reports CBS News.

In a video message on Tuesday, Trump said that he would issue an executive order during his first day back at the White House in January 2025 instructing the federal government to deny citizenship to children with parents who are not American citizens or legal permanent residents.

“My policy will choke off a major incentive for continued illegal immigration, deter more migrants from coming and encourage many of the aliens Joe Biden has unlawfully let

proud of their history and can very well defend their geography,” the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said.

Gandhi’s event was attended by community members not only from Silicon Valley but also from Los Angeles and Canada, said President of Indian Overseas Congress Mohinder Singh Gilzian.

Gandhi, 52, told the Indian Americans that the idea of India was under attack and is being challenged.

Talking about Sengol row, Gandhi said that Modi and his government cannot address issues like unemployment, price rise, the spread of anger and hatred.

“The new Parliament building is a distraction. The BJP can’t really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. Lying down and doing all that. Aren’t you happy that I’m not lying down?,” Gandhi said, referring to the Sengol that was installed in the new Parliament building by Modi on Sunday. He applauded the Indian Americans for holding up the Indian flag in America, showing the American people what it means to be an Indian by respecting their culture.

(AP): A blast early Wednesday at a military base controlled by a Syria-backed Palestinian faction in eastern Lebanon killed five Palestinian militants and wounded 10 others, according to two Palestinian officials with the group. The faction said an Israeli airstrike caused the blast, but that account was disputed by an Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, who denied the country had any role in the incident. Israel does not typically respond to foreign reports. In Beirut, a Lebanese military official said the explosion was the result of a blast within the base, adding that there was no airstrike. An official with a regional group allied with the Syrian government, said the explosion was the result of a “human error” that occurred when militants were handling ammunition. Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity.

Anwar Raja of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command, told The Associated Press in Damascus that the Israeli strike hit positions in the eastern Lebanese town of Qusaya near the border with Syria.

He said two of the wounded were in critical condition. Another PFLP-GC official, Lebanon-based Abu Wael Issam, told the AP that his group will retaliate “at the suitable time.”

He added that the strike will not deter his group from “escalating the fight against the Israeli enemy.” The Lebanese army and Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah group also had no immediate official comment on the airstrike.

Raja attributed Israel’s denial to “the sensitivity of the situation in Lebanon,” a suggestion that any acknowledgement of a strike by Israel would push Hezbollah to retaliate. It has been rare for Israel to carry out airstrikes on Lebanon in recent years.

Israel launched strikes in southern Lebanon in April, a day after militants fired nearly three dozen rockets at Israel, wounding two Syrian workers and causing some property damage. The Israeli military said at the time that it

had targeted installations of Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, in southern Lebanon. The PFLP-GC has positions along the Lebanon-Syria border as well as military presence in both countries. The group had carried out attacks against Israel in the past.

The militant group became known for major attacks against Israel, including the hijacking of an El Al jetliner in 1968 and the machine gunning of another airliner at Zurich airport in 1969. In 1970, it planted a bomb on a Swissair jet that blew up on a flight from Zurich to Tel Aviv, killing all 47 passengers on aboard.

Pak accountability court gives Imran bail until Jun 19

to go to the anti-corruption court for bail. The court had earlier on May 17 given him bail till May 31.

Khawaja Haris counsel for Khan was present in the court while the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) was represented by prosecutor Muazaffar Abbassi in

ISLAMABAD/ LA -

HORE, MAY 31 (PTI): A Pakistan anti-corruption court on Wednesday granted bail to former premier Imran Khan until June 19 in the Al-Qadir Trust case involving an alleged corruption of over Rs 50 billion.

Khan appeared before the Islamabad-based accountability court after the high court here earlier in the day extended the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief’s protective bail for three days and directed him

to seek bail from the anticorruption court within this period. Accountability court Judge Muhammad Bashir, presiding over the hearing, granted Khan bail till June 19 against surety bonds worth Rs 500,000.

Earlier, Khan travelled from Lahore to the capital and first appeared before the Islamabad High Court (IHC) where Justice Miangul Hasan Aurangzeb and Justice Saman Rifat Imtiaz granted him three-day protective bail with direction

O FFICE OF THE ANINGCHEN YOUTH CLUB

H.Q.Pongen Lenden Longjang Motto:Truth is Honoured

P.O.Impur,Mokokchung,Nagaland

Pin:798601

into our country to go back to their home countries. They must go back,” the former President said. Besides the US, Canada and Mexico also offer birthright citizenship. Trump had also brought up the issue while he was in office. In a 2018 interview with Axios magazine, he had said that he would end birthright citizenship through an executive order, although he did not provide a timeline for doing so, reports CNN.

OFFICE OF THE SUNGRATSü SENSO MUNGDANG & SUNGRATSü VILLAGE COUNCIL SUNGRATSü VILLAGE : MOKOKCHUNG FELICITATION

The Sungratsü Senso Mungdang & Sungratsü Village Council take this opportunity to convey our heartiest congratulations to Mr. Yimkum I. Ozukum, S/o Mr. Imtilepzuk Ozukum & Mrs. Meraienla Aier for clearing the UPSC Examination 2022-23 and achieving an All India Ranking of 203. Your hard work, determination & success has made us proud. We pray that our Heavenly Father will always guide and bless you.

Sd/- Sd/-

FELICITATION

With thanks giving to God, the Aningchen Youth Club, Pongenlenden, Longjang heartily congratulate Miss. Imkongnukla Ao for clearing the UPSC, Civil Services examination 2022.

The club also congratulates all the club members who have successfully passed the HSLC and HSSLC Exam 2023.

The club prays and wishes them all success in their future endeavors.

(Bendang Jamir) (Jongshi Jamir) President AYC Gen. Secretary AYC DB-223/23

O FFICE OF THE S ATAKHA O LD W ELFARE D IMA P UR F ELICITATION

Nine more members of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party were arrested and handed over to the Pakistan Army on Wednesday to be tried under the stringent Pakistan Army Act over their alleged role in the May 9 attacks on sensitive military installations and government buildings. With these arrests, the number of PTI activists to be tried under the Army Act and the Official Secrets Act has exceeded 50. “On the orders of the anti-terrorism courts, nine suspects belong-

O

the alleged corruption case that led to Khan’s arrest on May 9 in the Islamabad High Court premises. The cricketer-turned-politician’s arrest led to massive protests across Pakistan that left more than 10 persons dead and thousands of PTI supporters behind bars.

ing to PTI and involved in the attack on the ISI buildings (in Faisalabad) and military installations in Multan Cantonment were handed to the Pakistan Army on Wednesday for their trial under the Army Act and Official Secrets Act,” a court official said. On May 9, violent protests erupted after paramilitary Rangers arrested 70-year-old Khan, the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party from the Islamabad High Court premises in connection with a corruption case.

FFICE OF THE

S UNGRO TOWN S TUDENTS’ U NION District Wokha : Nagaland F ELICITATION

The Sungro Town Students’ Union (STSU) with immense pride and honour extend our heartiest congratulations to all the HSLC and HSSLC students who have successfully cleared their examination conducted by the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE).

We wish you all great success in all your future endeavours and urge everyone to work harder even in the near future.

(Zarenthung Ngullie) (Loreni E Ngullie) President General Secretary

TSARÜ STUDENTS’ UNION TSARÜ VILLAGE FELICITATION

With immense pride and honour, The Tsarü Students’ Union would like to heartily congratulate the following students for their achievements in the recently declared HSLC and HSSLC examination, 2023 conducted by NBSE.

1. Ms. Sangpila Sangtam, D/o Mr. I. Mendang Sangtam for securing Top 7th position (95.40%), HSSLC Arts stream.

We the Satakha Old Welfare Dimapur with enormous pride and joy would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to Miss Vini Achumi, D/o Shri Ghukuto Achumi for bringing laurels to our welfare by securing top 20(95%) in H.S.L.C. Exam.

The welfare would also like to congratulate all the students from our Welfare Dimapur who qualified in the recently declared H.S.L.C and H.S.S.L.C. result. All the best wishes for your future study.

2. Ms. Lumzila I Sangtam, D/o Mr. I. Mendang Sangtam for securing Top 8th position (97.50%) and Social Science Topper, HSLC.

3. Mr. Likhuli Sangtam, S/o Mr. Takolemba Sangtam for securing State Mathematics Topper, HSLC.

The Union also congratulates all the successful students and wishes bright prospects in their future endeavours.

Mr. M Taka Longchar

Mr. Lemasashi Ozukum Chairman President Sungratsü Village Council Sungratsü Senso Mungdang

Military personnel at the site of the blast.

Security personnel with bulletproof shields escort Imran Khan, as he leaves after appearing in court. (AP/PTI)

9 more members from Imran’s party to be tried under stringent Army Act

China warns of AI risks, calls for beefed-up national security measures

BEIJING, MAY 31 (AP): China’s ruling Communist Party has warned of the risks posed by advances in artificial intelligence while calling for heightened national security measures.

The statement issued after a meeting Tuesday chaired by party leader and President Xi Jinping underscores the tension between the government’s determination to seize global leadership in cutting-edge technology and concerns about the possible social and political harms of such technologies.

It also followed a warning by scientists and tech industry leaders in the US, including high-level executives at Microsoft and Google, about the perils that artificial intelligence poses to humankind.

The meeting in Beijing discussed the need for “dedicated efforts to safe-

Latvian Parl elects foreign minister as new president

HELSINKI, MAY 31 (AP):

Latvian lawmakers on Wednesday picked the country’s long-serving and popular foreign minister, a strong backer of Ukraine, as its new head of state in a tight vote. The 100-seat Saeima legislature elected Edgars Rinkevics, the country’s top diplomat since 2011, as president to serve for a fouryear term. He received 52 votes, one vote more than required to win the race. Incumbent Egils Levits, Latvia’s head of state since 2019, didn’t seek reelection.

Rinkevics, who announced in 2014 that he is “proudly” homosexual. He will be the first openly gay president in the Baltic nations — all former Soviet republics where attitudes to sexual minorities have been less tolerant than in western Europe. His closest rival, businessman Uldis Pilens, got 25 votes in the third round of voting between the two remaining contenders after the third candidate, Elina Pinto, had dropped out of the contest. After the vote, Rinkevics tweeted that he was “honored and humbled” by the Parliament’s decision and pledged “to serve the people of Latvia well.” Rinkevics, 49, served — among other posts — as a state secretary with the defense ministry and worked as a journalist with Latvian Radio in the 1990s.

Nepal wants to attract Indian investments: FM Saud

of the military and chair of the party’s National Security Commission, called at the meeting for “staying keenly aware of the complicated and challenging circumstances facing national security.”

China needs a “new pattern of development with a new security architecture,” Xinhua reported Xi as saying.

KATHMANDU, MAY 31 (PTI): Nepal wants to attract more Indian investments in its energy sector specifically for the development of hydro-power, Nepal’s Foreign Minister NP Saud said on Wednesday, underlining that the Himalayan nation wants a power deal with India so that it can export electricity to Bangladesh as well by utilising the Indian grid.

Foreign Minister Saud, who is accompanying Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on a four-day official visit, also told PTI that a wide range of issues, including trade, transit, connectivity and bor-

der issues will be covered during bilateral talks.

‘Prachanda’ will hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and other leaders in New Delhi to further strengthen the age-old, multifaceted and cordial ties.

Saud also said, “We would also like to have India’s line of credit for the construction of transmission lines.”

Nepal wants to attract more Indian investment in the energy sector.

“We want India’s investment for the development of hydro-power,” he said. We would also like to have India’s line of credit for the construction of transmission lines,” Saud told PTI at his residence at Bhaisepati.

Foreign Minister Saud said Nepal wants to reach a long-term power deal with India, adding it would like to export its electricity to Bangladesh through the Indian grid.

guard political security and improve the security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence,” the official Xinhua News Agency said.

“It was stressed at the meeting that the complexity and severity of national security problems faced by our country have increased dramatically.

The national security front must build up strate-

gic self-confidence, have enough confidence to secure victory, and be keenly aware of its own strengths and advantages,” Xinhua said. “We must be prepared for worst-case and extreme scenarios, and be ready to withstand the major test of high winds, choppy waters and even dangerous storms,” it said.

Xi, who is China’s head of state, commander

China already dedicates vast resources to suppressing any perceived political threats to the party’s dominance, with spending on the police and security personnel exceeding that devoted to the military.

While it relentlessly censors in-person protests and online criticism, citizens have continued to express dissatisfaction with policies, most recently the draconian lockdown measures enacted to combat the spread of COVID-19.

LeT terrorist Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, who trained 26/11 attackers, dies in Pak jail

LAHORE, MAY 31 (PTI):

Hafiz Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, an UN-designated terrorist who trained the Lashkare-Taiba (LeT) attackers for the 2008 Mumbai terror attack and acted as the outfit’s chief on at least two occasions, died in a prison in Pakistan’s Punjab province while serving a sentence for terror financing, his aide said on Wednesday.

Bhuttavi, who founded LeT headquarters in Muridke in Punjab, was deputy to the outlawed Jamaat-udDawa (JuD) chief and Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. The JuD is the front organisation for the LeT.

“Bhuttavi, 77, was incarcerated at District Jail

Sheikhupura, some 60 kms from Lahore, since October 2019 in a terror financing case. On May 29, he felt severe pain in his chest and was shifted to hospital where he was pronounced dead (due to cardiac arrest) on arrival,” a JuD official told PTI. His funeral was held at the LeT/JuD headquarters in Muridke in which a large number of the supporters of the banned organisation participated amid high security. A source in the Punjab government told PTI that JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, who is lodged at the Kot Lakhpat jail since 2019 serving multiple sentences in terror financing cases, had requested the government to allow

him to attend Bhuttavi’s funeral but permission was not granted.

An Anti-Terrorism Court in Lahore had given Bhuttavi a jail term of 16 years in a terror financing case in 2020.

A close aide to Saeed, Bhuttavi faced sanctions from the US treasury department in 2011.

The UN Security Council’s ISIL (Daesh) and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee added Bhuttavi to its list of designated terrorists in March 2012.

FELICITATION

The Longpa Kaketshir Telongjem Mungdang (LKT) with immense pride and honour would like to convey our heartiest congratulations to Miss W. Aotula Ozukum D/o Mr. T. Watimeren Ozüküm, AIR 874 in UPSC 2022 Civil Service Examination. The Longpa Kaketshir Telongjem further wishes success and prays that our Almighty God continue to bless her in all her future endeavours .

OFFI c E O F THE KANGc HING STUdE NTS’ UNION

LONGLENG - 798618 : NAGALANd

Motto : “ Unity & Progress”

F E L I c ITATI ON

The, Kangching Students’ Union (KSU) with immense pride and honour, extends our heartiest congratulations to Mr. Lungshen c Ailly , S/o Mr. & Mrs. Chizuk Phom for securing Topper 18 position in HSLC Examination 2023 conducted by NBSE.

The Union further congratulates its member students who have qualified in the recently declared HSLC, HSSLC & CBSE result 2023 and wishes them success in all their future endeavours.

Y Bomlong Phom Konglang Phom President General Secy. KSU KSU

FELICITATION

We, the Western Sumi Sports Association (WSSA) would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Newly elected Office Bearers of Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) Mr. Shikaho Zhimomi, President, Mr. Vikato Achumi, Vice President and Vikato Shikhu, Gen. Secy.

We further extend our prayer and wish that our Almighty God continue to guide and lead you all in days to come.

(Khetovi Aye) (Aghato Awomi) (Vikuto Zhimo) Gen. Secy. Media Cell Secy. President

Sd/- Sd/Temsuonen Toshirenla President General Secretary (LKT) (LKT)

OFFIc E OF THE Longpa K a KETSHIR TELong JEM Hq: Kubolong - 798615 MK C-221/23

Edgars Rinkevics

Facebook users put on alert over new ‘look who just died’ scam

Billions of Facebook users in Australia have been warned about a new scam called “look who just died”, which is designed to steal personal information and money by claiming the death of someone they know.

The ‘look who just died’ scam is the newest scheme used by hackers on the social media platform.

According to Daily Mail, the scam begins with a direct message from a hacker posing as a friend that says “look who just died” and includes a link to what appears to be a news article.

The message might also include terms such as “so sad” or “I know you know him” to trap users into thinking they know the person.

To read the article about the alleged death, victims are asked to enter their Facebook username

If you’ve ever thought

twice about posting an Instagram photo for fear of how many likes it’ll get or second-guessed the contexts of a message just in case you seem ‘too keen’, you’ll know how frustrating it can be to care about what other people think.

While caring about what other people think isn’t always a bad thing – it’s only natural to take the thoughts and feelings of those closest to us into account, after all –having the views of complete strangers direct your day-today decisions can quickly become problematic.

“Why am I so quick to assume what other people think of me?”

However, while most of us would like to adopt

and password.

The link to the fake news contains malware that allows scammers to steal login information and personal details from Facebook users.

The victim is then locked out of their account and taken over by the hacker who sends the same message to their friends’ list.

Moreover, the report said that the scammers can then steal any personal data associated with the

Megan Thee Stallion spotted cosying up with footballer Romelu Lukaku

Bruce Springsteen falls on stage in Amsterdam during world tour

Experts recommend users not click on any links in suspicious messages, and when in doubt, speak with a friend to determine if the message is legitimate.

Australians have reported losing more than 11.5 million dollars in 2023 alone from phishing scams, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Scamwatch.

American rapper Megan Thee Stallion was spotted looking cosy with Romelu Lukaku at the wedding of an Argentinian footballer.

The rapper, 28, was seen cuddling up to the Belgian footballer star, leaving many to speculate a romance between them, reports Mirror.co.uk.

Fans were left wondering how the two had crossed paths as they both attended the wedding of Lukaku’s Inter Milan teammate Lautaro Martinez to model Agustina Gandolfo in Lake Como, Italy.

Bruce Springsteen fans had their hearts in their mouths as the Boss had a scary looking fall during his gig in Amsterdam.

Facebook account, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and birth dates, which they can then use to break into non-Facebook accounts.

Notably, if the account contains bank details or financial information, hackers can steal the user’s money.

While the phishing scam is most commonly seen on Facebook, experts warn that it can also appear in an email or text message, the report mentioned.

Meanwhile, a report showed that every seven minutes, a customer in the UK falls victim to an online shopping scam originating in one of the two Metaowned platforms, costing consumers more than 5,00,000 pounds per week. Research from the UK-based Lloyds Banking Group estimated that over two-thirds of all online shopping scams affecting consumers start on Facebook and Instagram.

(IANS)

It is unclear where the ‘Sweetest Pie’ hitmaker and footballer met but Megan was spotted at an Inter Milan match back in April.

As per Mirror.co.uk, the pair are also reportedly both signed to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation management. Megan and Romelu’s romance seems to be heating up as they were snapped holding hands at the wedding.

The American rapper stunned in a floor length gold gown, which showed off her impressive curves.

Whilst Romelu kept it sharp in a dark grey suit and black T-shirt. The pair were seen in an embrace at the celebrations and they shared a loving look with each other. Footballer Romelu has previously been linked to Belgian model Sarah Mens, who he is said to have dated for five years. (IANS)

The iconic singer, 73, took a tumble as he tried to walk up the steps at his performance at the Johan Cruyff Arena. With his guitar around his neck, Bruce missed a step and landed awkwardly with the crowd gasping in shock, reports Mirror.co.uk.

The ‘Dancing in the Dark’ singer was seen lying on his back for a short time before bandmates rushed to his aide. Taking the guitar strap from around his neck he struggled to get back to his feet, but was able to do so thanks to the assistance of those nearby.

However, he rose with a smile on his face and was met with a round of applause from those in the crowd. Bruce isn’t said to have been injured in the fall.

How to care less about what other people think, according to an expert

a more care-free attitude, getting to a point where you care less about what other people think isn’t always easy.

So, to help you get started, we asked Luke Kennedy, a motivational speaker, mental health advocate and author of the new book Sex, Drugs And A Buddhist Monk: A Stepping Stone Towards A Silent Mind to share his top tips. Here’s what he had to say.

1. Do some ‘innerwork’

Getting to know yourself better will help you to feel more confident in your decisions and ignore the opinions of others. One of the most valuable things you can do to help yourself care less

Office Of the LONGKHUM STUDENTS' UNION Mokokchung:Nagaland

FELICITATION

The Longkhum Students' Union (LSU) with immense pride and honour convey our heartiest congratulations to Ms. Rongchensenla Yar , D/o Mr. Merangchang Yar and Mrs. Tiawapangla Lkr for bagging the 12th rank in the recently declared HSLC Examination,2023 and bringing laurels to the union and the Students community as a whole.

The union also congratulates its member students for their success in the HSLC and HSSLC Examination 2023.

It is the union's prayer that God's blessings and favour be upon you in all your future endeavours.

Sd/ Info. & Public Relation Secy-Merentuba Asst-Secy-Longrichila MKC-219/23

about what other people think is get to know yourself a bit better.

This doesn’t need to be some massive journey of self-discovery – simply

OFFICE OF THE WESTERN SUMI STUdENTS’ UNION

H.Q. – Thahekhu, Dimapur – 797112 : Nagaland Regd. No. H/rs – 3504

FELICITATION

The Western Sümi Students’ Union is delighted to extend it’s heartiest congratulations to all the candidates who have successfully cleared the recently concluded HSLC and HSSLC Exam from the Central Board of School Education (CBSE) and Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) 2023. At this moment of celebrations, we pray that our Almighty God continues to guide and bless you, as you prepare for your new venture of responsibility. Furthermore, the Union urge those students who were unable to make it this year to be more dedicated and work harder to excel in the days to come.

spending some time developing self-awareness will help you to feel more confident in what you think and your decisions.

“By building your selfawareness and doing work to understand your behaviours, labels, limitations and beliefs, you’ll feel stronger in who you are and reduce your need to try and impress others,” Kennedy explains.

“The only time you doubt your worth is when you’re trying to be someone you’re not because the mind’s idea of who you are is so fragile that a single word could make it crumble, leaving you feeling like you’re under attack.”

2. Flex your discomfort muscle Forcing yourself to get out of your comfort zone will help you become more resilient in the long-run. If you tend to care a lot about what other people think, chances are you try to avoid being in uncomfortable or challenging situations, for fear of making a mistake. However, while this may make you feel more comfortable in the shortterm, in the long-term it’ll only make you more fearful about what other people think.

“If you haven’t made a mistake recently, embarrassed yourself or felt

FELICITATION

The Yakshu Students’ Union is extremely delighted and extends our heartiest congratulations to Miss. eshau Yongteshu D/o Etham Konyak Yakshu village for securing subject topper (Social science) in recently declared HSLC examination under NBSE.

We are sincerely proud of your outstanding performance; this achievement is an inspiration for all of us. Wish you success in your endeavours.

He jokingly said, quoted by Mirror.co.uk: “Goodnight everybody,” before being reunited with his instrument and continuing the show.

The incident happened as he and the E Street Band treated fans to a rendition of hit tune ‘Ghosts’ last week.

It is one of a number of huge gigs the star has lined up on his world tour. He has already treated fans in Ireland, Italy, France and Spain and has gigs in Scotland to come as the month of May draws to a close.

In June, the Boss will play to more crowds in the Netherlands as well as audiences in Switzerland, England, Belgium, Germany, Sweden and Norway. (IANS)

awkward, you’re playing life too safe,” Kennedy says. The new hobby dilemma: why are so many of us afraid to be beginners?

“Playing things too safe drops your resilience and results in the anxiety of trying to not ‘slip up’ in front of other people,” he continues.

“Build this resilience by making it a weekly practice to do one of the above – make a mistake that other people see, embarrass yourself, and lean into situations which make you a little nervous.”

3. Reflect on your people

Spending time with

people who lift you up will stop you from feeling judged. Being around judgemental people will exacerbate any feelings of insecurity and self-doubt you might be feeling, so try to avoid spending time with those who make you feel this way.

“When you reflect on who you’re spending most of your time with, are they bringing you up or bringing you down?” Kennedy says. “Do they leave you happy and inspired or drained and angry? Who we spend time with can dictate our behaviours and thoughts.

(

By Lauren Geall)

OFFICE OF THE DIMAPUR CHANGKI KAKETSÜRI LONGJEM Dimapur : Nagaland “Tesoyim Pongi Atemkü”

FELICITATION

The Dimapur Changki Student's Union on their brilliant achievement extends our heartiest congratulations to:

Ms. MULUNGSULA CHANGKIRI, D/o Mr & Mrs Limatemsu Changkiri and Mrs Imlinula Longkumer HSLC 10th Rank; Subject Topper in English, Mathematics & Social Sciences from Holy Cross Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur.

Ms. MOLUNGBEN LONGKUMER, D/o Mr & Mrs Temsulong Longkumer and Mrs. Sandyla HSLC 17th Rank from Cornerstone Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur.

The DCKL also extends warmest congratulations to all the successful students for their academic feat in the recently declared NBSE Board Examination 2023 and also wishing their best in the days to come. God bless!

SAKUTEMJEN LONGCHAR ZULUSANGLA AMRI President General Secretary DP-2489/23

Sd/(KABO G. ZHIMOMI) (T. KAVIKA) President Education Secretary

P. Angnyei Konyak W. Khongang Konyak President General Secretary

Maguire has a decision to make: Ten Hag

LONDON, MAY 30

(IANS): Manchester United’s coach, Erik ten Hag, says Harry Maguire faces a significant decision about his future with the club.

Though Maguire has a contract with Manchester United that runs until 2025 and continues to be a key part of the England squad, national team coach Gareth Southgate recently suggested that his international place could be at risk due to only playing 16 times in the Premier League, reports Xinhua.

Despite also featuring seven times in the Europa

League, Maguire’s lack of sharpness led to errors in his team’s quarterfinal de-

feat to Sevilla, underlining the need for the towering defender to see more action.

However, with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane ranking higher in the Old Trafford pecking order, Ten Hag concedes that it won’t be straightforward for the imposing defender.

“No one would be content with this situation,” the coach mentioned in an interview with The Times.

The former Ajax boss

acknowledged that Maguire was also dissatisfied with not playing every week but maintained that “he consistently trains at peak levels, putting in 100% effort. He manages that situation well and his captaincy makes him important to the squad.”

“He’s up against stiff competition from Raphael Varane, who’s fantastic.

Let’s say I’m pleased he’s here and when we needed him, he performed. But it’s also a decision he has to make,” the coach commented.

Ten Hag was also queried about the future of David de Gea after the goalkeeper made some errors this campaign. He assured that the 32-year-old would be at Manchester United for the 2023-24 season but refrained from making any further guarantees.

“I won’t say he will always be my number one because in a club like United, there should be competition for all positions,” he explained.

Top surfers confirm participation for Indian Open

DP

MANGALORE, MAY 31 (IANS): Sasihithlu beach in the port city of Mangalore is all set to host 70 surfers from across India for the fourth edition of the Indian Open of Surfing.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all relatives, friends and well wishers from far and near who stood by us during the illness and demise of Lt. Zhovikhriele (Bao) Yhoshü on 7 th May 2023.Your act of kindness through prayer, physical presence and financial support have been a great source of strength during the darkest times.

We regret our inability to mention each and every individual but your act of kindness will always be remembered with gratitude

It is our prayer that the Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

K-1243/23

Loving wife, children & family members

Memory of

(Died

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Dear Ipu

Twenty

The premier surfing competition is held under the aegis of Surfing Federation of India and is being hosted by the Mantra Surf Club.

The competition this year will be tough as the top seven out of the 10 best surfers in India will be seen in action in the three-day surfing championship.

Some of the top names to be in action include the likes of Sathish Sarvanan, Ruban V, Srikanth D, Surya P, Sanjaikumar S, Manikandan Desappan and Nithishvarun T.

The Indian open of Surfing marks the beginning of the Indian surfing season and Karnataka Tourism have confirmed their support for the fourth season in a row.

This edition will also see some large corporate houses like Cycle Pure Agarbathies and Jai Hind Group come on board as principal partners for the first time.

Shrishti Selvam, Sinchana D Gowda (Mangalore Surf Club) and Sugar Shanti Banarse are some top women surfers who

beloved father

will be seen battling it out for the top honours and are expected to give a tough fight to their opponents. This edition will also include Kishore Kumar (Male Groms category) who has already made waves with his extraordinary capabilities in the ocean. The three-day surfing extravaganza will see over top 70 surfers from the country participating in the four categories viz; Male Open, Male Groms (U-16), Female Open and Female Groms (U-16).

The Indian Open of Surfing is also recognized by the International Surfing Federation - the global governing body for the sport.

ER. VETOKHU YEPTHOMI

Rtd. Engineer-in-chief, NPWd 1948-2023 75 years old

The family of deceased would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to all the extended family members, friends, and community for your endless love and support during this time of grief. We would also like to mention a few names in particular to whom we remain indebted for their generosity and kindness.

• Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Purana Bazar

• Sumi Baptist Church Kohima

• Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Shihaphumi

• Surumi Community, Dimapur

• Surumi Community, Kohima

• Surumi Village Council

• Shihaphumi Village Council

• East Dimapur Sumi Council

• Mount View Colony Council, Purana Bazar

• Yepthomi Asu kughuko

• Officers & Staff of Nagaland, PWD (R&B)

• Dr.Kitaka S.Wotsa, Faith Hospital

• Dr.Akumnaro, Faith Hospital

• Faith Hospital MOs and Staff

• NHHDC Officers and Staff

• Ayushman MOs

• Hekani Jakhalu, Honourable Advisor, Industries and Commerce

• K.T Sukhalu, Honourable Advisor, Food & Civil Supplies

• Imna Along, Honourable Minister, Higher Education & Tourism

• Toiho Yeptho , Honourable MLA

• Dr.Sukhato Wotsa, Honourable MLA

• Shetoyi Yeptho, Honourable Ex-MLA

• Nikki Sumi, Rtd.Gen& President NSCN/GPRN

• All the kind blood donors

• Fun Tree Crew (FTC)

Since it would not be possible for us to thank everyone individually, kindly accept this acknowledgement as our sincere appreciation and deepest gratitude to all. Your support have made our loss more bearable. It is our only prayer that you receive manifolds of the love you have given.

PROVERBS 11:25 – Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. Loving wife, children, daughters-in-law & sons-in-law

one years have gone by but everyday we learn from your examples and words of wisdom. Your teachings keep you closer to us and everything we have in our life, we owe it to you. We know that you are happy in the presence of our Lord. Until we meet again, We will always miss you.

Harry Maguire and Erik ten Hag.

Don’t take step that could undermine sports, let probe be completed: Anurag

NEW DELHI/BARABANKI, MAY 31 (PTI/ IANS):

Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday asked protesting wrestlers not to take any step that could undermine sports or hurt players and said appropriate action will be taken once the probe into their allegations is completed, a day after the grapplers threatened to immerse their medals in river Ganga.

He also said that Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) will hold elections and a new body will be elected soon.

The WFI president has stepped aside and the WFI is not taking any decision. The committee of administrators set up by the Indian Olympic Association is taking everyday decisions, Thakur said. The minister urged the wrestlers to be patient and have faith in the Supreme Court, the Sports Ministry and Delhi police, which is investigating allegations against the WFI’s former chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

“I urge the wrestlers to be patient till the outcome of the investigation. I also urge them not to take any step that could undermine

sports or hurt any sportsperson,” the minister said while replying to queries from reporters.

He stressed that his ministry had acted promptly on the wrestlers’ complaint and appropriate action would be taken once the probe is completed.

Thakur also listed steps taken by the government to “fulfil the hopes of players and help strengthen sports in the country”.

The minister’s remarks come a day after the country’s top wrestlers, including Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, along with hundreds of their supporters, reached Har ki Pauri to immerse their medals in the river Ganga but were persuaded by Khap and farmer leaders

not to do so. The wrestlers are demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh who is accused of sexually harassing several women grapplers.

Thakur said that after some wrestlers complained, a committee was immediately formed in consultation with them to look into the issue. Members were added following the wrestlers’ request for an impartial probe. The committee gave its report and an FIR was registered after they went to the Supreme Court, which asked them to go to the magistrate, he said.

“Whatever they said, we did not leave any stone unturned, but the goalpost was changed and new goalposts were made. We heard them with an open mind,”

BWF to consider allowing Russians and Belarusians to compete as neutrals

sports movement,” it said.

“Therefore, a regulative and operational framework to allow athletes with Russian and Belarusian passports to compete as individual neutral athletes has been commissioned to be presented to Council at its next meeting in August.

“BWF Council will then deliberate on the merits of the principles, framework and timeline to potentially lift the suspension of Russian and Belarusian athletes.”

the minister said. He noted that the investigation is continuing in the matter. He said whenever any such allegation had been made in the past, an investigation was carried out and adequate action was taken after that.

“Let the investigation be complete. If they feel, they can protest after that. But they should have faith in the Supreme Court, the police, sports ministry.

“We also want that there should be an impartial investigation on the issues raised by the players and appropriate action should taken after that. The police are conducting the probe and they should wait for the investigation and have patience,” he said.

Thakur noted that the players should not take any step which could undermine players and sports, as a number of emerging players are preparing for the Asian Games and thousands of sportspersons are participating in trials.

“After all, the probe will be held as per rules and the law and adequate action would be taken after the investigation is completed,” he noted.

Jr Hockey Asia Cup: India defeat Korea 9-1

NEW DELHI, MAY 31

(IANS): The Indian Junior men’s hockey team stormed into the final of the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 when they defeated Korea 9-1 in the first semifinal in Salalah, Oman on Wednesday.

Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh said on Wednesday that he would “hang” himself if allegations of sexual assault levelled against him by wrestlers are proven.

“If a single allegation against me is proven, I will hang myself,” Singh said while addressing a public rally in this UP district.

Singh took a jibe at wrestlers for announcing to immerse their medals in

Ganga as a mark of their protest against him.

“It has been four months and they want me

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has condemned the manner in which the protesting Indian wrestlers were being treated by Delhi Police over the weekend, terming it “very disturbing” in a strongly-worded statement.

The IOC’s reaction follows the United World Wrestling’s (UWW) criticism of the detention of the grapplers during their protest at Jantar Mantar, in which the sport’s world body threatened to suspend the national federation if it fails to hold its election within the stipulated time.

“The treatment of the Indian wrestling athletes over the weekend

to be hanged. The government is not hanging me that is why they gathered at Haridwar on Tuesday and threatened to immerse their medals in the Ganga. This will not bring the sentence that they want for me, it is all emotional drama,” he said.

“If you (wrestlers) have any evidence, present it in the Court and I am ready to accept any punishment. Delhi Police is investigating the matter. I would have been arrested if there was

was very disturbing. The IOC insists that the allegations by the wrestlers are followed up on by an unbiased, criminal investigation in line with local law,” the IOC said in the statement.

“We understand that a first step towards such a criminal investigation has been made, but more steps have to follow before concrete actions become visible. We urge that the safety and wellbeing of these athletes is duly considered throughout this process and that this investigation will be speedily concluded.”

The IOC further said in its statement, “From the very beginning of the allegations, the IOC has

any truth to the charges levelled by the wrestlers,” he added.

Meanwhile, Bhartiya Kisan Union President Naresh Tikait has called for a Maha Panchayat on Thursday in Muzaffarnagar to discuss the issue of wrestlers. Tikait, on Tuesday, had gone to Haridwar to persuade the wrestlers against immersing their medals in the Ganga River. He announced his support to their protest against the BJP MP.

been in close contact with United World Wrestling (UWW), which has already taken measures.

“The IOC will continue to support UWW in all their efforts and in the framework of the IOC Guidelines for International Federations and NOCs for safeguarding athletes from harassment and abuse in sport.”

The IOC asked the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to take the necessary actions “to protect the athletes and to make sure that the elections of WFI are happening as planned and in line with the regulations of UWW as an International Federation”.

Thailand Open: Kiran stuns World No. 9 Shi Yuqi

BANGKOK, MAY 31 (PTI): India’s Kiran George scripted a stunning straight-game win over world number 9 Shi Yuqi of China but double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu made an opening round exit from the Thailand Open Super 500 tournament here on Wednesday.

LONDON, MAY 31 (AGENCIES): The Badminton World Federation (BWF) will consider allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutrals in international competitions, the sport’s governing body said on Wednesday, a month after they had extended the ban.

The BWF first banned Russian and Belarusian athletes in March last year after Russia invaded Ukraine. Belarus is being used as a key staging ground for Russia’s war in Ukraine, which Moscow terms a “special operation”. Last month the BWF said there was no “sat-

isfactory justification” to lift the suspension on players and officials from the two countries when it extended the ban.

However, it has now changed its stance and could potentially align itself with the International Olympic Committee’s recommendations to allow athletes from both countries to return to competition as neutrals.

“The guiding principle for BWF is that athletes should always be allowed to participate in sport competitions without judgement of their passport and separate of any geo-political conflict outside the control of the

The Council is set to convene in Copenhagen on the sidelines of the World Championships which will be held from Aug. 21-27.

Qualification for next year’s Olympics in Paris will be based on results achieved in badminton tournaments between May 1, 2023 and April 28, 2024.

While several Olympic sports federations have allowed athletes from Russia and Belarus to return to international competition, major bodies like World Athletics have excluded their athletes for the foreseeable future due to the war.

For the Indian team the scorers were Sunit Lakra (13’), Araijeet Singh Hundal (19’), Boby Singh Dhami (31’, 39’, 55’), Angad Bir Singh (34’), Captain Uttam Singh (38’), Vishnukant Singh (51’), Sharda Nand Tiw ari (57’). Meanwhile for Korea it was Keonyeol Hwang (46’) who scored the only goal. In the early exchanges, it was the Koreans who looked more dangerous; however, they came up against a well-organised Indian defensive unit, that absorbed the pressure well. Just after the half-way mark in the quarter, India started to go through the gears, pushing Korea back into their half, with a couple of attacks originating from the right. Keonyeol Hwang (46’) got Korea on to the scoresheet, when he converted a Penalty Corner in the first minute of the final quarter.

KosovoOlympicCommitteeseeksIOC disciplinaryactionagainstDjokovic

PARIS, MAY 31 (AGENCIES):

Kosovo Olympic authorities have asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to open disciplinary proceedings against Novak Djokovic, accusing the Serbian of stirring up political tension by saying “Kosovo is the heart of Serbia” at the French Open.

Djokovic wrote the message on a camera lens following his first-round win on Monday, the same day that 30 NATO peacekeeping troops were hurt in clashes with Serb protesters in the Kosovo town of Zvecan - where Djokovic’s father grew up.

Serbian authorities said 52 protesters were wounded in the clashes. The violence erupted after ethnic Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo’s Serb-majority area following elections that were boycotted by the Serbs.

World number three Djokovic later said he was against any kind of conflict but defended his statement.

“Novak Djokovic has yet again promoted the Serbian nationalists’ propaganda and used the sport platform to do so,” Ismet Krasniqi, president of Kosovo’s Olympic Committee (KOK), said in a statement.

“The further postmatch statements made by such a public figure without any feeling of remorse, directly result in raising the level of tension and violence between the two countries,” he added, urging the IOC to investigate by opening disciplinary proceedings against Djokovic.

The IOC did not immediately respond to a

request for comment on the call by the KOK, which came a day after Kosovo’s tennis federation accused Djokovic, 36,of using his status as a well-known personality to stir tensions.

French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, whose country will host the summer Olympics in Paris next year, said Djokovic’s message was “not appropriate, clearly”.

“There is a principle of neutrality for the field of play. When you carry messages about defending human rights, messages that bring people together around universal values, a sports person is free to

express them,” she told French television.

“But in this case, it was a message that is very activist, that is very political. You shouldn’t get involved, especially in the current circumstances, and it shouldn’t happen again,” she added.

‘SPEAK FREELY’

As Djokovic, who has courted controversy in the past including with his antivaccination stance during the COVID-19 pandemic, prepared to play his second-round match later on Wednesday against Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) - the governing body of world tennis - said Djokovic’s message did not violate Grand Slam rules.

“Rules for player conduct at a Grand Slam event are governed by the Grand Slam rulebook, administered by the relevant organiser and regulator. There is no provision in this that prohibits political statements,” an ITF spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

Ashmita Chaliha and Saina Nehwal also made winning starts to their campaign in women’s singles, while Lakshya Sen and world number 4 pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty also progressed to the pre-quarterfinals.

On a day when Kidambi Srikanth and B Sai Praneeth also failed to cross the opening hurdle, 2022 Odisha Open winner Kiran, a product of the Prakash Padukone academy, notched up a 21-18 22-20 win over third seed Shi Yu Qi, who is a 2018 world championships silver medallist.

Kiran will take on China’s Weng Hong Yang next. His academy mate Lakshya also dug deep to eke out a hard-fought 2123 21-15 21-15 win over

Chukwueze hints possible Villarreal departure

MADRID, MAY 31

(IANS): Nigerian international forward and Villarreal’s own, Samuel Chukwueze, has hinted significantly at a potential departure from the club this summer.

Chukwueze’s performance this season has been his best yet for the club, tallying 13 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions. Although his contract contains a release clause of 60 million euros, it is set to expire in June 2024.

Consequently, the club may have to sell him at a much lower price this summer to avoid the risk of his free exit next year, a Xinhua report said.

In a discussion with El Pais newspaper about his future, the forward expressed his enduring gratitude towards Villarreal president Fernando Roig.

When questioned about proposals from other clubs, Chukwueze described them as “only background noise.” He articulated his dream of playing in Europe with Villarreal once more.

Chinese Taipei’s Wang Tzu Wei. He is likely to square off against All England champion Li Shi Feng of China. Commonwealth Games champion and top seeds Satwik and Chirag too had to work hard to outwit the Danish combination of Rasmus Kjaer and Frederik Sogaard 2113 18-21 21-17 in a thrilling match. A former world champion, Sindhu, however, faltered in the opening round, going down fighting 8-21 21-18 18-21 to Canada’s Michelle Li in 62-minute

match.

In other matches, Ashmita, who came through the qualifiers, beat compatriot Malvika Bansod 17-21 14-21, while London Olympics bronze medallist Saina defeated Canada’s Wen Yu Zhang 21-13 21-7.

Ashmita will next face Rio Olympic gold medallist Carolina Marin, seeded fourth, while Saina is likely to meet He Bing Jiao of China.

Srikanth, the 2021 world championships silver medallist, lost 8-21 21-16 14-21 against China’s Weng Hong Yang,

who had reached the final of Malaysia Masters last week.

Praneeth, who competed at the Tokyo Olympics, also found France’s Christo Popov too hot to handle, going down 14-21 16-21 in another match.

Orleans Masters winner Priyanshu Rajawat too couldn’t cross the opening hurdle, going down 19-21 10-21 to Malaysia’s Ng Tze Yong.

Former world number 11 Sameer Verma, who had won the Slovenia Open recently, went down 15-21 15-21 to Denmark’s Magnus Johannesen.

Ashwini Bhat K and Shikha Gautam lost to Korea’s third seed Baek Ha Na and Lee So Hee 11-21 6-21 in women’s doubles.

The BWF World Tour is divided into six levels, namely World Tour Finals, four Super 1000, six Super 750, seven Super 500, and 11 Super 300 in order. One other category of tournament, the BWF Tour Super 100 level, also offers ranking points.

The Super 500 is a Grade 2 (level 4) event in the BWF tournament ranking system.

French Open: Medvedev’s first round loss impacts battle for world No. 1

PARIS,

MAY 31 (IANS):

Daniil Medvedev’s firstround loss at the French Open here on Tuesday has taken him out of the battle for No. 1 in the ATP Rankings for the time being. However, the top spot is still up for grabs this fortnight. World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz is still in pole position to retain his place after the clay-court major. Even if he loses in the second round to Taro Daniel, a lot would need to happen for him to let slip No. 1. If Alcaraz loses his next match, he will depart Paris with 6,500 points. World No. 3 Novak Djokovic would need to reach the final at Roland Garros to surpass that mark. On the other hand, world No. 5 Stefanos Tsitsipas would need to win the title to have a chance. If the 20-year old Alcaraz advances to the fourth round, Tsitsipas will be eliminated from contention for World No. 1. It is possible there will be a blockbuster showdown between Alcaraz and Djokovic in the semi-finals. Should that clash come to

pass, there would be implications in the battle for World No. 1. An Alcaraz win over Djokovic would guarantee his spot atop the ATP Rankings after Roland Garros. If Djokovic wins, he would give himself an opportunity to win the title and with it, World No. 1. Medvedev’s early loss also impacts the calendaryear ATP Race To Turin. The 27-year-old arrived in Paris with a healthy lead in the Live Race and with it, the battle for year-end No. 1. But now Alcaraz,

Djokovic and Tsitsipas have an opportunity to pass Medvedev, or at least make up ground. Alcaraz would need to reach the final in Paris to bump Medvedev from first, while Djokovic and Tsitsipas would both need to win the title.

Andreescuovercomes

Azarenkainfirstround Canada’s Bianca Andreescu rallied from a set and a break down to defeat 18th seed Victoria Azarenka, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the first round of the French Open, here.

Anurag Thakur

Kiran George

Novak Djokovic writes at camera lens after the match.

Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh