20 April 2023

Joint Task Force to begin ILP check

DIMAPUR, APR 19

(NPN): A Joint Task Force comprising of civil and police will be set up for implementation of the Inner Line Permit(ILP) meant to check non-indigenous settlers and those entering Diampur after November 21,1979.

All non-indigenous people settled in Dimapur after November 21,1979 or those entering Dimapur after November 21,1979 are to possess ILP and if not, are given 30 days to compulsorily procure ILP from the DC’s Office Dimapur.

Meeting on ILP: DC

Dimapur Sachin Jaiswal convened a meeting at his office chamber on Tuesday to discuss matters related to ILP. The meeting comes against the backdrop of a report in Nagaland Post on April 10 regarding presence of a large number of suspected illegal immigrants in Dimapur.

The report was based

on video clips that had gone viral, showing scores of suspected illegal immigrants obstructing and then forcibly pulling at the hose pipes

of the fire tenders which had arrived on the scene to contain the blazing inferno in Burma Camp on April 9. At the meeting, DC

India logs 10,542 fresh Covid cases

highlighted the government notification dated December 9, 2019 and stressed the need to make efforts to implement it effectively.

Commissioner of Police (CP) Dimapur expressed concern over non-compliance of the notification by many non-indigenous and stated that regular checking of ILP was required. The meeting decided that joint task force of district administration and police would be constituted for effective implementation of ILP. However, it was decided that a period of 30 days would be given to nonindigenous Nagas settled or entering area of Dimapur District after November 21, 1979 to compulsorily procure ILP from the office of DC Dimapur.

A proposal for checking of ILP at Chumoukedima gate was also decided to be taken up with appropriate authority.

NEW DELHI, APR 19 (PTI): India has logged 10,542 new coronavirus infections, while the active cases have increased to 63,562, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday. The death toll has increased to 5,31,190 with 38 deaths, which includes 11 reconciled by Kerala, the data updated at 8 am stated. The Covid case tally was recorded at 4.47 crore (4,48,45,401). The daily positivity rate was recorded at 4.39 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was pegged at 5.1 per cent. The active cases now comprise 0.14 per cent of the total infections and the national COVID-19 recovery rate has been recorded at 98.67 per cent, the ministry said. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,42,50,649, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.18 per cent.

Be ‘ruthless’ against drug traffickers: Amit Shah to ANTF

NEW DELHI, APR 19

(PTI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said anti-narcotics agencies should be “ruthless” in dealing with drug traffickers and cartels, stressing that they are the main culprits and those consuming drugs their “victims”.

Citing the ill-effects of drugs on the youth as well as the country’s economy and security, he asked all states to work in close coordination and join the battle against the menace with “a whole-of-government” and “Team India” approach, keeping aside their political differences. Addressing the first conference of the

State govt, UNICEF agree to collaborate

DIMAPUR, APR 19 (NPN): State government and UNICEF have agreed to collaborate in the area of RMNCH+A (Reproductive Maternal Newborn Child and Adolescent Health) through capacity building, technical support, supportive mentoring visits and other areas of support as feasible.

This was agreed during the visit of chief field office, UNICEF for Assam and North East, India, Dr. Madhulika Jonathan to the state on Wednesday.

India surpasses China to become world’s most populous nation: UN data

NEW DELHI, APR 19 (PTI): India has surpassed China to become the world’s most populous nation with 142.86 crore people, shows the latest UN data, even as UN projections estimate that the country’s population is expected to grow for the next three decades after which it will begin declining. China now has a population of 142.57 crore, thus being the second most populous country, the UN world population dashboard showed. Nearly 50 per cent of India’s population is below the age of 25 years, according to UNFPA India representative Andrea Wojnar. According to the UNFPA’s State of World Population (SWP) Report 2023, about 25 per cent of India’s population is in the age group of 0-14 years, 18 per cent in the 10 to 19 age group, 26 per cent in the age bracket of 10 to 24 years, 68 per cent in 15 to 64 years age group, and 7 per cent above 65 years.

People wait at a platform during peak hours at CSMT in Mumbai, Wednesday. (PTI) was 114.4 crore in 1950.

The report further states that by 2050, India’s population is expected to rise to 166.8 crore while China’s population would dip to 131.7 crore.

UN projections estimate that the country’s population is expected to grow for the next three decades after which it will begin declining.

heads of Anti-Narcotics Task Forces of states and Union territories, Shah said the Ministry of Home Affairs, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has set a target to create a drug-free India by 2047 when the country attains 100th year of independence.

“Drug traders are the

main culprits as the drug consumers are the victims. We have to take a ruthless approach against the drug traders and the strongest possible action should be taken against them,” he said.

The home minister said the Narendra Modi government is committed to eradicating the menace of drugs and a “whole of government” approach should be taken against it as it can destroy the future generations, he said.

“Narcotics not only make the young generation hollow, but along with this, there are many bad effects on the country’s economy as well. Simul -

taneously, through narcoterror, through smuggling of narcotics, the security of the country’s border can be breached.... If the 130 crore Indians fight it together, we will win this battle,” he said.

Shah appealed to everyone to rise above politics and asked the state governments to keep aside their political differences and join the fight against narcotics together. “If we think about the fight against narcotics, it seems very difficult, but if we fight it after planning, then the way to victory opens up quickly. And the recent results in this fight against drugs are encouraging,” he said. He said

a drug network chart of states and districts must be prepared and that until the chart is ready, it would be not known how widespread the problem is and where focus has to be given. The home minister said this fight against narcotics will have to be fought not only by the government but by making it a people’s fight. He said a “top of the bottom and bottom to top” approach has to be taken and when the smallest amount of drug is found, its source has to be found, the drug network has to be probed and then only the fight against narcotics will be successful.

Incidentally, the UNFPA’s SWP report earlier said that India will surpass China by mid-2023. The population demographics of India vary from state to state. Kerala and Punjab have an ageing population while Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have a young population, UN analysis has revealed. This is the first time that India has topped the UN list of most populous countries since it started collecting population data in 1950.

According to the United Nations’ World Population Prospects-2022, India’s population was 86.1 crore while China’s population

Nagaland Medical College likely to start by June

Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 19 (NPN):

State’s Medical College, Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (NIMSR) at Phriebagie, Kohima, could soon become operational as it has received ‘Letter of Intent’ (LOI) from the National Medical Council (NMC)’s Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) even as it readies to start the academic year 2023-24 by June. State health and family welfare (H&FW) minister, P Paiwang Konyak, announced this during a press conference at NIMSR conference hall, here on

Wednesday, a day after the LoI for 100 MBBS seats during academic year 202324 was sent to the Dean/ Principal of NIMSR.

Konyak said Nagaland would be reciprocating with an acceptance letter within a week’s time to pave way for the Letter of Permission,

without which admissions could not be initiated.

forts, Konyak was said this was a step towards fulfilling the burning desire of “our leaders” both in the past and present.

According to experts, India has achieved the replacement level of fertility but the population will grow due to momentum phenomenon. According to the UNFPA, the size of elderly population will nearly double to touch 192 million by 2030, largely in southern and western states.

“By 2050, every fifth Indian will be an elderly person, hence planning for this segment also deserves equal attention. The health and economic security of the elderly will need to gain primacy,” the UNFPA said.

Wojnar, the UNFPA India representative and the country director for Bhutan, said, “India’s 1.4 billion people must be seen as 1.4 billion opportunities.”

Wojnar said population anxieties have seeped into large portions of the

general public in India but population numbers should not trigger anxiety or create alarm. “Instead, they should be seen as a symbol of progress, development, and aspirations if individual rights and choices are being upheld,” she said Wojnar said that ensuring gender equality, empowerment and advancing greater bodily autonomy for women and girls are the key determinants for a sustainable future. Individual rights and choices should be respected, and all should be able to decide when to have children, if any, and how many, she said.

Wojnar said global experience has shown that family planning targets can lead to gender-based discrimination and other harmful practices. With close to 50 per cent of its population below the age of 25, India has a ti me-bound opportunity to benefit from the demographic dividend, she added. India’s demographic dividend can be further secured by incorporating the impact of mega trends such as climate change, urbanization, migration and ageing into policy initiatives, she said.

Prohibitory order under Sec 144 CrPC clamped at Tseminyu town

DIMAPUR, APR 19

This is it!

“So you were charging market fee from us and now you cannot help us anymore?”

ruary 7, 2023, assuring that all required infrastructures, manpower, equipment, teaching hospital etc. would be ready by May 31, 2023 to start 100 MBBS seats for the academic session 2023-24, Konyak said.

He informed that the second compliance agreement, affidavit was sent to NMC on March 6, 2023.

(NPN): Prohibitory order under Section 144 CrPC, 1973 has been promulgated in all the wards under Tseminyu town council area with effect from 6am of April 19, 2023 till further orders.

Minister described it as a historic day for the people of Nagaland as the state would able to start a medical college after 60 years of Statehood. While thanking state chief minister Neiphiu Rio for his concern and ef-

He disclosed that MARB had on January 10, 2023, paid a surprise visit to NIMSR, Kohima during which the team expressed their dissatisfaction with the infrastructure, manpower and subsequently had issued a show-cause notice to the government on February 1, 2023. Accordingly, on behalf of the state government, commissioner & secretary, H&FW, Y Kikheto Sema, submitted Agreement, Affidavit and Compliance Report on Feb-

Nagas in Assam incensed with lyrics in Bihu song

DIMAPUR, APR 19 (NPN): Naga communities and personalities in Assam have expressed outrage at lyrics in the Bihu song by Bihu exponent Ranjit Gogoi sung for around 11,300 female dancers and male drummers for the “largest Bihu performance at a single venue” to create two world records acknowledged by Guinness at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati on April 13.

Videos of Assam

Speaking at a consultative meeting with health department’s officials at the IDSP Conference Hall of DoHFW, Kohima, Dr. Madhulika Jonathan congratulated the effort of the media in Nagaland, attracting condemnation. In attendance was prime minister Narendra Modi who also joined in the

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and other dignitaries joining in when the “objectionable” song was sung have gone viral on conventional and social

Bihu celebration during his recent visit to Guwahati. Many in Assam have also criticised the “poor choice of song” for a world record-

breaking performance and called for a review of songs that denigrate tribal people or hill dwellers.

Konyak said the second surprise assessment visit by a team of NMC on March 27, 2023 was fruitful as the team seemed satisfied with the improvement of infrastructure, hospital, manpower etc. within a record period of time.

In an order, the subdivisional magistrate Tseminyu, Kemciyile, stated that a situation has arisen in Tseminyu town wherein there was likelihood of serious breach of peace, disturbance to public tranquillity and danger to human lives and properties as evident by some groups of individuals

taking law into their own hands. The sub-divisional magistrate, therefore, prohibited the assembly/ movement of five or more persons within the whole of Tseminyu town council area. Carrying of sticks, stones, firearms and /or weapons of any description or objects, which could be used offensive weapons, have also been prohibited. All administrative officers and DBs have been directed to perform magistrate duties to ensure compliance of the order in their respective jurisdiction without fail.

MCCI asks members not to entertain tax collection by ‘unwanted elements’

DIMAPUR, APR 19

(NPN): Alleging that some cadres and functionaries of “various Naga nationalist groups” were demanding money from members of the business community at Mokokchung town, the Mokokchung Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) has directed its members not to entertain “such unwanted elements”.

In a press release, MCCI president Tsukti Longkumer stated that multiple groups/factions have made the demands during the last few days.

MCCI reiterated that collection of donations, taxation or any form of transaction was not permissible by law. It stated that coercing or victimizing its members would not be tolerated. The chamber said that members of the business community under its ambits would not entertain them whatsoever.

“Mokokchung town is the most peaceful major urban centre in Nagaland as of today and this hard-earned peace is too dear to us to be trampled on by some devious elements,” MCCI

president said.

Further, MCCI has asked those groups trying to extort from the business community of Mokokchung town “to immediately cease and desist.”

The chamber also directed its members to immediately report to MCCI office of movements of any suspected extortionists in the market.

MCCI cautioned that any member of the business community entertaining such unwanted elements by ignoring its call would be doing so at their own risk.

Paiwang Konyak along with H&FW and NIMSR officials at the medical college complex on Wednesday. (NP)

Amit Shah

(L) Ranjit Gogoi. (R) Bihu dancers perform attempting to set a Guinness World Record.

Video clip showing suspected immigrants pulling hose (Cont’d on p-8)

SCPD vows to safeguard and protect rights of PWDs

Act. Resource person, State Project. Manager (SPM), National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM), Khriezovonuo Lhoungu highlighted the various opportunities and provisions for PWDs under the NSRLM in the state. She encouraged the disabled community to take active participation in all the available opportunities.

NEWS IN BRIEF

DC Mkg informs: In regard to nomination for Governor’s Award 2023, for distinction in arts, music and literature, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mokokchung, Shashank Pratap Singh has invited deserving candidates for examination and consideration by the District Level Committee. DC said the recommendation, if any, should be submitted to this office or the office of the district cultural officer, Mokokchung on or before April 14, for further necessary consideration.

DC Kma informs pensioners: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kohima Shanavas C has informed all the pensioners under Kohima District that registration and issuance of PUC Cards are done at the CMHIS Cell (Ground Floor) at the office of the DC, Kohima.

DIMAPUR: State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Nagaland, Diethono Nakhro has informed that State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) will ensured that all possible steps will be taken to safeguard and protect the rights of PWDs in the state.

Diethono made this statement while speaking at the state level disability leadership workshop on April 13 at Tourist Lodge Dimapur, organised by SCPD, government of Nagaland in collaboration with Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF).

She encouraged the PWDs to be aware of their rights to safeguard them -

selves from any type of possible discrimination and harassment in the society.

Highlighting the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwDs) Act 2016 and its provisions, Diethono stressed on the importance of leaders in the disabled community and disabled people in general to be well versed and aware of their rights to get access to all kinds of services, schemes and provisions that were made available to them by the government. She also underlined the importance of education for PWDs as well as the need for advocacy to ensure the proper implementation of the various provisions of the RPwDs

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

NSDF president, Vikengunu Fatima highlighted the formation and functions of Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs), and senior executive NSDF, Kezhaleto Zecho spoke on the need and importance of accessible sports facilities in Nagaland for sports persons with disabilities.

NSDF joint secretary, Ngaugongbe Hega highlighted briefly about NSDF and aims and objectives of the forum, while program coordinator SCPD, Ashe H. Kiba spoke on the ground reality of PWDs in Nagaland. The programme ended with an interactive session with participants. The workshop was attended by 63 persons with disabilities from all the districts and 14 others, including caregivers and resource persons.

DNCYE general meeting: Dimapur Nkonjan Chansu Yanhen Ekhung (DNCYE) has convened general meeting on April 22, 9 a.m. at Lotha Hoho Ki, Dimapur. All members have been requested to attend the meeting.

DTTRE general meeting: Dimapur Tonphyak Tsu Rui Ekhung (DTTRE) has convened general meeting cum induction of new office bearers on April 22, 2 p.m. at Lotha hoho Ki. All concerned from seven brother clan have been requested to attend the meeting.

NNC/FGN to observe: Naga National Council (NNC) and the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) has informed that it would be observing the 33rd death anniversary of A.Z. Phizo, father of the “Naga Nation” on April 30, 7 a.m. at Phizo Hill, Kohima, Nagaland. All fellow Nagas have been requested to participate in the function.

KNCA informs: Kuzhami Baptist Churches Association (KBCA) would be organising ordination cum licensing service on April 30, 11 a.m. at Kuzhami Baptist Church Chümoukedima.

A&C informs: Directorate of Art and Culture has informed all members of State Library, Kohima, those who have not renewed their membership, to do so on or before July 5, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (office hours), failing which their membership would stand cancelled.

IN CONDOLENCE

02.02.1972 – 18.03.2023

We, the bereaved family members of Late Pongpa Konyak (Brigadier) would like to express our sincere appreciation to each and every individual, relatives, friends, neighbours, Churches, organizations and well wishers for comforting and upholding us in your prayers and for all the physical, materials, financial and loving support we received at the sudden demise of our beloved on 18 th March 2023 at Tekun designated Camp NSCN/GPRN (Reformation).

Our profound acknowledgement to the various organizations/ associations and individual.

1. Y. Wangtin Naga His Excellency the President NSCN/GPRN (Reformation)

2. Shri. EE.Pangteang Konyak Ex-MLA

3. GHQ NSCN/GPRN (Reformation)

4. Ceasefire Office NSCN/GPRN (Reformation) HQ Mon

5. Angjang Rang NSCN/GPRN (Reformation)

6. Phom Region NSCN/GPRN (Reformation)

7. Sema Region NSCN/GPRN (Reformation)

8. Chang Region NSCN/GPRN (Reformation)

9. District Election Office, Kohima

10. Kah ham Union Tekun

11. Changlang Union, Tizit

12. Moka Union, Tizit

13. Changlang Union, Mon

14. Longchang Area Union, Mon

15. Jakphang Changlang Union, Aboi

16. Changlang Village Council

17. Changlang Students’ Union

18. Changlang Baptist Church

19. Angjangyang Village Council

20. Angjangyang Students’ Union

21. Angjangyang Baptist Church

22. NCRC Angjangyang

23. St. Peter Church Angjangyang

24. Longchang Area Students’Union

Though we are unable to individually mention and thank each and every one personally, it is our fervent prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly. we are overwhelmed by your magnanimity and shall remain ever grateful.

K-844/23

Loving Wife, Sons, Family Members and In-laws

dp-1674/23

Words are inadequate to express our sincere gratitude to all those who stood by us spiritually, physically, financially and materially at the sad demise of our beloved daughter Late Karen Wotsa, who passed away for heavenly abode on 09/04/2023.

We deeply regret our inability to mention and thank each and every one of you individually, but pray that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

We convey our special thanks to :

1. Doctors, Nurses and Staff of Faith Hospital

2. Her Friends, Nurses and Staff of City Hospital

3. Zhexuche Baptist Church.

4. Khehuto Baptist Church.

5. UBF Zhuikhu Village

6. Western Sumi Kukami Hoho

7. Lions Club Dimapur

8. Ahole Chishi and Siblings

9. Isak Sumi Ato Kilonser, NSCN (K)

10. Vihuto, Hd. G.B. Vihuto Village

11. Lhovishe Achumi, GB, V/P (WSKH)

12. Itepu Zhimomi, GB. V/P (WSKH)

13. Kakishe Chishi, Hd. GB Zhexuche Village

14. Mughavi Awomi, Hd. GB Mughavi Village

15. Kawoto X. Aye, Hd. GB Xekiye Village

16. Vitoyi Zhimo, GB Henivi Village

17. Shitovi Swu, Hd. GB Nitozu Village

18. Toshiho, GB Yetoho Village

19. Khevito Yeptho, Hd. GB Nizheto Village

20. Kiyehe Yeptho, Hd. GB Kupuhe Village

21. Kuhoto Yeptho, GB Homeland Village

22. Hetoi Katty, GB Luhezhe Village

23. Ghukhuyi Achumi, GB Ahoto Village

24. Rakhemo Humtsoe, Naga United Village

25. Bovi Awomi, Padumpukhuri Village

26. Akiho Shohe, Zhexuche Village

27. Jekhuvi Zhimomi, Zhuikhu

Loving Parents, Brother,

and

The family of Mount Tiyi College deeply mourns the demise of its Principal, Dr. Kezhangulie Metha who passed away on 14th April 2023. He was a gentle and kind person who worked with utmost sincerity and dedication. His goodness and generosity radiated to all the people around him. With his untimely demise, the college in particular and the Department of Higher Education in general, has lost an intelligent, wise and visionary man. May our Almighty God give strength and solace to the bereaved family and may the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

K-834/23

Vice Principal & Staff Mount Tiyi College, Wokha

Village

28. Phuka Kiba, Zhexuche Village

Sisters

Relatives

Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along; Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso, MLA; along with officers from Tourism, students from Kohima College, Japfü Christian College, Assam Rifles and others at the drive cleanliness drive at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama on April 19. (NP)

On the occasion of the Fire Service week, advisor, fire & emergency services, home guard & civil defence, S. Kiusumew Yimkhiung on April 18 visited Fire Station Kiphire and interacted with staff. He encouraged them to work hard and be diligent in their duties for the upliftment of the department as well as for the welfare of the public. (DIPR)

Diethono Nakhro and others at the workshop.

Church leaders sensitised on malaria elimination

ATMA, KVK organise trainings, demo for farmers

DIMAPUR: With an aim to improve and increase agriculture production in Nagaland, Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) blocks and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) organised trainings, demonstrations, field day and various other activities for farmers.

NEXT POLL

DIMAPUR: One day awareness seminar on malaria elimination for church members under Longleng district was conducted by National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Longleng office on April 19 at the Conference Hall, CMO Longleng office.

A press release by CMO Longleng office informed that spokesperson, district vector borne consultant, A Nyumoi Phom gave a PowerPoint presentation on malaria elimination, ancient history of malaria, causes and its risk factors, preventive measures from malaria infections, testing of malaria, Dos and Don’ts.

NBSE issues directives to schools on health of children

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) has notified all schools registered with the board to ensure health of children suffering from Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (TIDM), and adhere to the directives issued by the board.

According to a DIPR report, NBSE has informed that National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), has taken cognizance on the petitions received from parents of the children diagnosed with juvenile diabetes or Type 1 diabetes in the country. Since children spend one third of the day in school, NCPCR maintained that it was the duty the schools to ensure that children with TIDM are provided with proper care and required facilities.

In this regard, NBSE notified all schools to adhere the following directives -

A. A child with Type-1 diabetes, who requires a midmorning or mid- afternoon snack should be permitted by the class teacher to consume it.

B. The child can participate in sports as advised by medical person.

C. Children with Type -1

diabetes giving their school exams and other competitive exams may be considered for the following-

1. Permitted to carry sugar tablets with them.

2. Medicines/fruits, snacks, drinking water, some biscuits/ peanuts/ dry fruit should be allowed into the exam hall and kept with teacher, if required these items shall be given to children during the examinations.

3. The staff should permit the child to carry a glucometer and glucose testing strips along with him/her into the exam hall which may be kept with Invigilator/ Teacher.

4. The child should be permitted to test blood sugar and consume the above-mentioned items as per requirements.

5. Children using CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitoring), FGM (Flash Glucose Monitoring) and/ or insulin pumps have to be given permission to retain these devices during exams as they are attached to the body of the said child. In case a smart phone is used as a reader, it may be handed over to the Teacher/ Invigilator to monitor the blood sugar levels.

Assam Rifles carry out various welfare activities across state

DIMAPUR: Assam Rifles

Battalion under the aegis of Headquarters Inspector General of Assam Rifles- North (IGAR-N) dedicated rostrum and football ground, conducted awareness programmes, plantation and cleanliness drives, meetings and provided assistance to villagers across the state.

Oting village: Assam Rifles dedicated rostrum and football ground to village authorities and people of Oting village, Mon district on April17.

Youths present during the event were made aware about free recruitment training provided by Assam Rifles and were further motivated to join the same.

Ngwalwa village: Assam Rifles battalion conducted awareness campaign on “Waste management and disposal” on April 15 at Ngwalwa Village, Peren. Villagers and youth were briefed on how government is accelerating the efforts to achieve universal sanitation coverage and to put the focus on sanitation.

They were also briefed on solid and liquid waste management in the area and

She said malaria was a serious life-threatening disease that led to millions of deaths yearly but was a preventable and could be totally eradicated at the primary level with the help from churches, societies, students, etc.

A brief introduction on malaria and its causes was given by malaria inspector NCVBDC, Rongsentemsu.

The seminar was attended by pastors, associate women pastors, Christian educators, youth pastors, youth secretaries, church members from churches under Longleng district.

Mokokchung: With an objective to exchange views and experiences directly with the farmers on different problems in agriculture and allied sectors and to provide technical guidance, one day farmer-scientist interaction programme was conducted on April 17 at Mopungchuket Village, Kobulong Block by ATMA Mokokchung. The resource persons were ACTO (agronomy) KVK, Yisemyong, Imtisenla; SDHO Tuli, department of horticulture Mokokchung, Dr.Imchalemla; VAS, AH & Vety. Services, Mokokchung, Dr.Sentirenla Longchar; AFI, department of fisheries and aquatic resources, Mokokchung, Neken andAFA, district agriculture office, Mokokchung, Lanuchuba. The resource persons sensitised

the farmers on millets and its dietary importance, insect pest and disease management in horticultural crops, fishery pond management and composite fish culture, awareness on deterioration on soil structure by usage of salt, proper care and management and procurement of swine. Further, discussions based on queries raised by the farmers were carried out in several topics like reduction in paddy yield, management of fall army worm in maize, training and pruning of citrus trees, postpartum paralysis of sow and retarded growth of fish in fishery ponds. Altogether

25 farmers and 12 officials from agri and allied, and ATMA attended the programme. Peren: ATMA Peren block on April 17 organised a field day at a ginger

and yam field in Kejanglwa village. Resource person, Block Technology Manager (BTM), Lipokjungla Ozukum briefed the farmers on the field preparation for the ginger, seed selection, treatment and cultural practices like weeding, mulching and sun solarisation to enhance soil fertility and minimize erosion. During the interaction session with the farmers, queries related to pest and post harvest management were answered by the Assistant Technology Managers (ATMs), Kibale and Shanchothung. The field visit concluded with the farmers weeding and preparing the ginger field with proper spacing between beds.

how clean

surroundings

can add up to lessening diseases.

The importance of planting trees at individual level were also imparted. Around 18 villagers participated in the programme.

Peren district: Assam Rifles battalion conducted an awareness campaign for women across multiple locations in Peren district on April 15. Lectures were conducted to spread awareness among women and villagers on how women’s empowerment equips and allows women to make life-determining decisions through the different societal problems.

The villagers were also briefed about economic development and sustainable employment opportunities through various schemes and programmes of the government and the opportunities for girls in education centres and further in career growth.

The lectures also covered the career opportunities in Armed Forces and various entry schemes into Sainik Schools and further into National Defence Academy. A total of 44 villagers attended the lecture.

Medical team and church leaders at the awareness seminar on malaria elimination.

Farmers and ATMA members at the Kejanglwa village.

SNIPPETS

Seizures cross Rs 200 cr in K’taka

BENGALURU, APR 19

(PTI): The Enforcement agencies made seizures totalling over Rs 200 crore, including more than 10 lakh litres of liquor, in poll-bound Karnataka since the model code of conduct (MCC) came into force on March 29, the Election Commission said on Wednesday. The total seizures (Rs 204 crore) include cash (Rs 77 crore), liquor (Rs 43 crore), gold and silver (Rs 50 crore), freebies (Rs 20 crore) and drugs/narcotics (Rs 15 crore), the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka, said. As many as 1,629 FIRs have been booked with regard to the seizures. It may be noted that the seizures before the announcement of the May 10 Assembly polls totalled about Rs 58 crore (March 9 to March 27 period).

Six killed road accidents in MP

UJJAIN/SEHORE, APR

19 (PTI): Six persons, including three women, were killed and 14 injured in two road accidents in Madhya Pradesh’s Sehore and Ujjain districts in the past 24 hours, police said.

Around 2 pm on Wednesday, a van carrying 17 persons overturned and fell into a gorge at Pali Ghat near Budhni in Sehore district, Sub Divisional Officer of Police Shashank Gurjar said. The van was carrying a few residents of Adampur village and was going towards Salkanpur, he said. Three women were killed and 14 injured in the accident, he said. The injured were admitted to the hospital in Obedullaganj, he said. In Ujjain district, two minor boys and another person were killed when their car hit a tree on Ujjain-Dewas Road late Tuesday night, Madhav Nagar police station in-charge Manish Lodha said. The car lost balance and hit a tree near a college, killing the three vehicle occupants.

UP youth booked for post against Yogi BALLIA (UP), APR 19 (PTI): A youth was booked for allegedly posting objectionable comments against Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath on FB, a police official here said on Wednesday. The youth was identified as Mohammad Azim alias Ajju, a resident of the Revati area. According to police sources, Azim posted objectionable remarks against the chief minister on Facebook. He also tried to disturb communal harmony by hurting religious sentiments.

Time-bound hearing: SC on same sex marriage

NEW DELHI, APR 19 (PTI): The Supreme Court, which is hearing arguments on a batch of pleas seeking legal validation for same-sex marriages, on Wednesday emphasised on the need to finish the matter in a timebound manner, saying there are other cases waiting to be heard.

A five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, which is hearing the matter for the second consecutive day, observed this when senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for one of the petitioners, said he would take time, probably till lunch on Thursday, to finish his submissions.

Singhvi, whose turn to advance his submissions come at around 12.45 PM, told the bench he is starting his arguments a bit late in the day and will finish sometime before lunch or just at lunch time on Thursday.

“Your ability is to put it in point wise form. I think you should finish it much before,” said Justice Kaul, who is part of the bench which also comprises Justices S R Bhat, Hima Kohli and P S Narasimha.

“This is a matter of some moment. I am not repeating. I am giving your lordships the facets which are important,” Singhvi said, adding, “Today it might not be possible. I wish I had started earlier.”

Justice Kaul observed nowhere in the world arguments proceed in a manner where there is some kind of an “indefinite time”.

“I think courts are liberal. Whatever may be... maybe the most crucial issue, maybe the issue important for the country, but I don’t think time frames can spill over,” he said. Singhvi said some matters are evolving and they evolve as one argues and, more importantly, as the court asks questions that are very important to help the matter evolve.

Justice Kaul said he is

confident Singhvi will be able to finish his submissions today.

“I am sure there is something which can go from the bench to the bar which is that sometimes you feel merely because we have longer time to decide a matter, it does not mean you will decide it better,” the CJI observed.

Justice Kaul said, “I am only saying that all of us, it includes us also as part of it, have to get used to finishing with whatever matter in a time-bound manner because there are other matters waiting to be heard.”

Singhvi then commenced his arguments which will continue on Thursday.

During the day’s hearing, the petitioners seeking legal validation for same-sex marriage urged the apex

strongman Siddaramaiah

MYSURU (K’TAKA), APR 19 (PTI): Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday filed nomination from Varuna constituency in this district, for the May 10 Karnataka Assembly polls, as he reiterated that this would be his last election and virtually laid out a “succession plan” of sorts.

The 75-year-old Leader of Opposition indicated his son and grandson to be his political successors. “This is my last election, after that there is Yathindra (son), Dhawan Rakesh (grand son)...”, he said.

Siddaramaiah’s younger son Dr Yathindra Siddaramaiah is the sitting Congress MLA from Varuna.

An eight time MLA, Siddaramaiah had earlier won twice from Varuna, and went on to become the Leader of Opposition after winning from here in 2008, and then became Chief Minister after 2013 Assembly polls.

The Congress legislature party leader offered prayers to his family deity Siddarameshwara at the temple in his native village of Siddaramanahundi, and also visited Sri Rama temple there, and held a massive roadshow before filing the nomination.

Pointing out that he

Aaditya targets Maha CM over slow pace of projects

MUMBAI, APR 19 (PTI):

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday claimed infrastructure projects across Mumbai and its satellite cities are shut due to the lack of gravel supply for more than two weeks.

He also alleged all stone-crushing companies have been served notices by the Environment Department controlled by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

There is buzz that someone from Shinde’s close circles has pressured all (gravel) suppliers to supply the material through a company, which led to an escalation of costs by more than 50 per cent, the former environment minister claimed while speaking to reporters. “This is happening to benefit specific contractor friends of the chief minister,” he said.

Thackeray also said due to the lack of gravel supply, crucial works like the Delisle Road bridge and other road works taken up by the Brihanmumbai Mu-

Aaditya Thackeray (PTI)

nicipal Corporation (BMC) will not be completed by the May 31 deadline before monsoon.

“What is the progress of the work (of the infrastructure projects in Mumbai) and what is the efficiency of the work?” he asked. Thackeray said all the concerned departments --- Urban Development and Environment -- are controlled by CM Shinde.

“As the corrupt civic body administration and the government enjoy its share, we Mumbaikars are facing the brunt of their greed,” Thackeray alleged.

is the son of the soil, as his village Siddaramanahundi comes under Varuna segment, Siddaramaiah while addressing the public meeting said this will be his last election. After contesting this polls, he will retire from electoral politics, but not from politics.

Dhawan Rakesh is son of Siddaramaiah’s late elder son Rakesh Siddaramaiah. As Siddaramaiah took Dhwan’s name the crowd started cheering.

As Dhawan was waving at the crowd, Siddaramaiah said, “He should be 25 years to come to politics, still eight years to go, his education is still not complete. Only after completing education, politics. Your love and affection towards him was what you had on Rakesh, who was very popular here.”

court to use its “plenary power, prestige and moral authority” to push the society to acknowledge such a union as would ensure LGBTQIA persons lead a “dignified” life like heterosexuals.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for one of the petitioners, said the State should come forward and provide recognition to same-sex marriage.

Earlier in the day, the Centre urged the apex court that all states and Union Territories be made parties to the proceedings, saying any decision on the issue without obtaining their view will render the present “adversarial exercise” incomplete and truncated.

In a fresh affidavit filed in the apex court, the Centre said it had issued a letter on April 18 to all states inviting comments and views on the “seminal issue” raised in the petitions.

The hearing and the outcome of the matter will have significant ramifications for the country where common people and political parties hold strong and divergent views on the subject.

Allow students to write exams in local languages even if course is in English: UGC

NEW DELHI, APR 19 (PTI): The University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked universities to allow students to write exams in local languages even if the course is offered in English medium, while arranging evaluators and encouraging the translation of textbooks, according to Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar.

The Commission has also asked the universities to promote the use of local language in teaching and learning processes as well.

“Promotion and regular use of Indian languages in education is a crucial area of focus in the new National Education Policy (NEP). It emphasises the importance of teaching and instruction in the mother tongue and local languages.

“It also lays thrust on the need to optimise communication in all Indian languages for better cognitive attainment and the development of a holistic personality of the learners,” Kumar said.

Noting that the academic ecosystem continues to be English medium-cen-

tric, the UGC chief said once the teaching, learning and assessment are done in local languages, student engagement will gradually increase, leading to an increase in the success rate.

“The Commission has requested the universities that students be allowed to write the answers in local languages in examinations even if the programme is offered in English medium, and promote translation of original writing in local languages and use local language in the teachinglearning process at universities,” he said.

Asked about how students writing in local languages will be evaluated, he said, “This will be possible if the evaluators also know the local language and the Uni-

versity can make the effort to find the evaluators who know the local language.”

“The idea is to let the students write the answers in a language that will provide them the opportunity to express easily,” Kumar said He said that higher education institutions play an important role in preparing textbooks and supporting the teaching-learning process in the mother tongue and local languages. The Commission has stressed that it is necessary to strengthen these efforts and “promote such initiatives as writing textbooks in the mother tongue/local languages and encouraging their use in teaching, including translating standard books from other languages”.

Sunstroke deaths: Patole demands special session

MUMBAI, APR 19 (PTI): Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole on Wednesday demanded a two-day special session of the state Legislature to discuss the deaths tied to the Maharashtra Bhushan Award function, blaming the Eknath Shinde government for “mismanagement”.

Further, urging people to ensure that he wins with a margin of over one lakh votes, he said, “I will not be able to come for campaigning here for more than two days, think you are the candidate and ensure victory.”

The ruling BJP has fielded Minister V Somanna from Varuna to take on Siddaramaiah.

Stating that BJP has fielded Somanna who is a resident of Bengaluru, instead of someone born here, Siddaramaiah alleged, “BJP and JD(S) have come to an internal pact. That’s the reason why JD(S) has fielded Bharathi Shankar, former MLA from T Narasipur, as its candidate, aimed at dividing Dalit votes, but I’m confident that people of Varuna will understand the conspiracy and will make me win with a big margin.”

Fourteen people have died so far due to sunstroke after the programme was held on Sunday in an open ground in Kharghar area near Mumbai where social worker Appasaheb Dharmadhikari was conferred with the state’s top civilian award by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Patole said “mismanagement” on the part of the “irresponsible” state government led to the deaths. He questioned the cause of the deaths saying whether it was due to sunstroke or a stampede. This is an instance of culpable homicide and the Shinde government is hiding the truth, Patole said.

Authorities had earlier said that the deaths were not the result of a stampede.

The Congress leader said he has written to Governor Ramesh Bais demanding that a two-day special session of the Legislature be convened to discuss the deaths and take steps to prevent such incidents in the future. Calling the tragedy “heart-wrenching”, Patole in his letter to the governor

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND DIRECTORATE OF WOMEN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT NAGALAND, KOHIMA.

NO.DWRD/DEV/MTC-4/2021/185

Dated Kohima, the 19th April 2023

CORRIGENDUM

In Supersession to this department Advertisement of Even NO.DWRD/DEV/MTC4/2021/159, dated 7th April 2023 it is hereby notified that the interview scheduled to be held on 21st April 2023 at Multi Training Centre (MTC) Directorate Compound Meriema, Kohima and Training Centre (MTC) Purana Bazaar, Dimapur is postponed to 28th April 2023. The Last date for submission of Application is also subsequently extended till 26 th April 2023. The centre for interview and timing shall remain the same.

Sd /(VILONE SAKHRIE) Director

said that nearly 20 lakh people who love social worker Dharmadhikari came from all over the state for the event. This function was organised by the state and about Rs 13 crore was spent on it from the government exchequer, he said.

Despite spending so much money, Patole said, not even a tent was erected for the audience. They were made to sit for hours in the hot sun and these people could not even get drinking water. Many had to be admitted to the hospital due to sunstroke, Patole said.

What is even more shocking is that along with the heat stroke, news of a stampede is also coming through various media, which is very serious, he said.

Due to poor planning, 14 deaths have occurred and more than 500 people are undergoing treatment, said Patole in his letter, stressing that the “possibility of this number being higher cannot be ruled out”.

Referring to claims that Appasaheb Dharmadhikari had given the time for the programme, Patole said the

VISITING CONSULTANT

government is now blaming the social worker. The programme concluded at 1.30 pm on Sunday when the nearest weather station to the spot had recorded a maximum temperature of 38 degrees Celsius.

Being the organiser of the Maharashtra Bhushan Award function, the state government cannot deny the responsibility, said Patole. His party has already demanded that a case of culpable homicide be registered against the government in connection with this incident, he said.

“If this government had any sense of moral responsibility, they would have resigned by now but they continue to occupy the chair. The Shinde government is hiding the truth of the Kharghar incident, but the Congress will hold a press conference in every district of the state on April 24 to bring the truth before the people,” Patole said.

Dr. Puneet Girdhar, Senior Director & HOD Ortho Spine Surgery BLK- MAX Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi will be available for consultation on 21st April 2023 from 2 PM to 5 PM

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‘My last election’, says Karnataka Cong

Siddaramaiah files his nomination papers ahead of the Karnataka Assembly elections, in Mysuru district. (PTI)

The open air function in which 14 people died.

Reality of climate change

Scientists have warned that 2023 is set to be a scorcher with temperatures set to rise ‘off the charts’ causing unprecedented heat waves. Human interference on the environment through emissions of chemicals and pollutants, had brought changes being witnessed through changing climatic winds, oceanic currents and rising heat and humidity. According to meteorologists 2023 could end up as the hottest year ever. Environment scientists world over are concerned over the prediction that 2023 will be an El Nino year. That may push temperatures by over 1.5°C compared to the average temperature a century ago. The hottest year on record was 2016, when average temperature rose by 1.3°C compared to the average of 1850-1900. Global temperatures and the frequency and intensity of heat waves will rise in the 21st century as a result of climate change. High air temperatures can affect human health and lead to additional deaths. Extended periods of high day and night time temperatures create cumulative physiological stress on the human body which exacerbates the top causes of death globally, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and renal disease. Experts also said that this year’s weather is unfolding in a kind of unusual manner that has become worryingly common - the changes are drasticlike it did in 2022 when much of the country skipped spring to go virtually straight from winter to summer.

Extra greenhouse gases in our atmosphere are the main reason that Earth is getting warmer. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane, trap the Sun’s heat in Earth’s atmosphere.

There is a difference between “weather “and “climate” as the former relates to conditions in the atmosphere over a short time. In the latter, it relates to how the atmosphere behaves over a longer period of time. Climate change generally means changes in long-term averages of daily levels of temperature and rainfall.

Lack of preparedness a concern. Studies from the aftermath of a severe 2003 heatwave in Europe found that early heatwaves were deadlier because of a lack of state preparedness, and resulted in “marked shortterm increases in mortality. At particular risk during severe heat are vulnerable people, including infants, those of old age, and people with chronic diseases. IMd has recommended various preventive measures such as drinking sufficient water (even if not thirsty), drinking ORS (oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte replenishments) or similar homemade drinks to keep hydrated. According to director general IMd, M.Mohapatra, people in the eastern states need to take heat prevention measures adequately.According to environmentalists, there can be no compensation for the loss of natural forests because open forests are often classified as degraded. A combination of factors are causing the climate change effect and may be understood from the Nagaland experience. One of the most destructive symbols on the environment is the gradual shrinkage and extinction of the once lush Rangapahar reserved forest which had been declared as a sanctuary. At its prime, Rangapahar Sanctuary was spread over 21,768 acres and notified as a reserved forest in 1925 by the forest department of Assam. Today, what is left of the sanctuary is about hardly 300 acres that is supposed to be the Nagaland Zoological park. This is an example of how accumulated destruction of environment has pushed global warming faster.

DailyDevotion

Beware of the Least Likely Temptation

Joab had defected to Adonijah, though he had not defected to Absalom. —1 Kings 2:28

Joab withstood the greatest test of his life, remaining absolutely loyal to David by not turning to follow after the fascinating and ambitious Absalom. Yet toward the end of his life he turned to follow after the weak and cowardly Adonijah. Always remain alert to the fact that where one person has turned back is exactly where anyone may be tempted to turn back (see 1 Corinthians 10:11-13). You may have just victoriously gone through a great crisis, but now be alert about the things that may appear to be the least likely to tempt you. Beware of thinking that the areas of your life where you have experienced victory in the past are now the least likely to cause you to stumble and fall.

We are apt to say, “It is not at all likely that having been through the greatest crisis of my life I would now turn back to the things of the world.” Do not try to predict where the temptation will come; it is the least likely thing that is the real danger. It is in the aftermath of a great spiritual event that the least likely things begin to have an effect. They may not be forceful and dominant, but they are there. And if you are not careful to be forewarned, they will trip you. You have remained true to God under great and intense trials— now beware of the undercurrent. Do not be abnormally examining your inner self, looking forward with dread, but stay alert; keep your memory sharp before God. Unguarded strength is actually a double weakness, because that is where the least likely temptations will be effective in sapping strength. The Bible characters stumbled over their strong points, never their weak ones.

“…kept by the power of God…”— that is the only safety. (1 Peter 1:5).

By Oswald Chambers

Quotes

Restricted education, endangered future

The Plight of Kuhuboto Town High School and the call for immediate action.

For many centuries now, education has been the ultimate tool for liberating the mind, thus invigorating and empowering one to exploit, imagine and utilise their ability to the fullest. Education has and will always be the ultimatum for progress of any kind in society or personal growth. What and where we are, the world and the universe we know today are all the results of the continuous efforts of curious minds shaped by education and right knowledge. With the passage of time and tide, our world has advanced in all spheres from being technologically futuristic to exponentially improved living conditions of many people through various inventions and discoveries.

Unfortunately, there seem to have been a great leap as we look at where our 40 years old beloved Government High School of Kuhuboto stands. For more than two decades the people and citizens of Kuhuboto have dreamt in vain for improvement and advancement in education hoping for secured, con -

tend and sustained future. Little did we know, some things happen in reverse, at least that’s what became of one of the oldest school in Dimapur (now in Niuland). Like an abandoned and orphaned child, for the past four to five years, this school has been functioning without proper teachers with no follow up appointment in place of retired teachers especially Maths and Science since 2018, thus adding more inversely to the HSLC result that has consecutively been a heartache for many years. Furthermore, there has been decline in the number of GT and PT since December 2018(ref table 1) resulting in declining enrolment of students each year. And now finally the school is without Headmaster and Assistant Headmaster with no intention of appointing new. While the inattentiveness of some staffs have always been a hurdle which is also a case for another discussion, there is no doubt that the teachers and the school in-charge have been doing their best to hold up the mess by adding extr a

classes to their routine while continuously appealing the higher authority for assistance and support.

For all these years, the Kuhuboto Town Students’ Union (KTSU), Kuhuboto Ghakhu Students’ Union (KGSU) and Kuhuboto Ghakhu Public Organisation (KGPO) have individually and collectively held meetings and discussions further appealing the education department for necessary action but have received nothing except indifference towards our desperation and demands.

Below is the progressive yearly tabulation of the Number of GT, PT and students enrolment since 2018

The school that once gloriously had 300-400 students enrolled has now hardly hundred students in the past 6 years.

There are overflowing number of teachers in other schools in and around Dimapur and Niuland, take the example of our neighbour school GHS Nihoto that is 3km away from GHS Kuhuboto with total of 28 teaching staffs. 24 GT and 22 PT plus 2 language teachers. How is this not discrimination? And why such discrimination and indifference?

These statistics keeps us wondering if the concerned authorities have been receiving our appeals for degradation of school rather than upgradation.

Dear Education Department, how can you say children are the leaders of tomorrow when their today is in so much turmoil? How can students learn in classroom with no teachers? Where the anticipation for their teachers to actually come

in and take classes has become a luxury only for the neighbouring schools. Unless the students automatically develop technologically advanced brains along with the advanced Artificial Intelligence(AI) technology there is no other way our children can grow or progress from the little knowledge they possess. And you know, little knowledge is more dangerous than no knowledge at all. It is sad but right to assume that these students and their mentality are still that of medieval times or worse while their peers graciously tag along with the norms of modern society. So close to better life yet so far because of your ignorance. How are you going to take responsibility for so many dropouts and shattered dreams? Private schools are expensive and the nearest GHS is 3km away, 7 to 10km km for some students who come from far. How and what better alternative solution can you offer other than simply doing the needful arrangements that’s meant

and rightly deserved. Therefore, this is yet another appeal to the concerned Authority, to the Department of Education and to the Caretakers of future generations from the Kuhuboto Ghakhu Students’ Union (KGSU) and Kuhuboto Town Students’ Union (KTSU) on behalf of all the students and citizen of Kuhuboto Area, to comprehend to our demands and recruit adequate number of teachers at the earliest without any further delay and negligence.

The students, the citizens of Kuhuboto Area and the surrounding villages who depend on this school will continue to anticipate for your attention and service for the sake of our tomorrow. Hundreds of dreams have been shattered yet hundreds more to be realised. Each life is precious and so is their desire for proper education. Lastly, No students deserve empty promises, that is such a threat to the future.

Demands for caste census: Opposition’s ‘Brahmastra’ against BJP in 2024?

The opposition parties are yet to firm up an alliance for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, but their unanimous demands for a caste census and the removal of reservation cap could be a binding factor and hand them what a section of leaders feels the “Brahmastra” to counter the BJP and its Hindutva plank.

The issues of caste census and reservation not only put all opposition parties on the same page but leaders feel it could also help them win back many backward classes who have veered towards the BJP in the recent past.

At a DMK-convened conference, RJD leader and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav summed it up for opposition parties when he had said that the best way to beat the BJP’s politics of “polarisation” was through social justice-based politics.

This formula has been adopted by the Congress with much enthusiasm with Rahul Gandhi making an aggressive pitch for a caste-based census and the removal of 50 per cent cap on reservation in his recent speech in Karnataka’s Kolar, in a bid to turn the tables on the BJP that had been gunning for him over his 2019 “Modi surname” remarks alleging that he insulted OBCs.

The BJP has hit back at Gandhi for his remarks, alleging that he is being “disingenuous” with his claim on the issue of social justice when the erstwhile Siddaramaiah-led Congress government

in Karnataka did nothing to address long-pending demands of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

The Opposition has spoken with unanimity on general issues such as inflation and rising employment but lacked cohesiveness on specific issues like the Adani matter. However, with the issues of caste-based census and removal of reservation cap, opposition parties have found an arrow with which they can hit multiple targets at one go -- it forges instant unity in the opposition ranks, puts the BJP on the back foot as it is yet to spell out its stance on them categorically, and prepares a counter for the Hindutva push expected closer to the polls.

With the Congress aggressively taking up the issue, it is likely to endear the party to regional outfits which have till now been circumspect of the grand old party fearing that it may play the “big brother” by superseding their agenda with issues of its own.

Asked about the Congress’ strong pitch, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh told PTI, “The demand for a caste-based census was articulated forcefully by many civil society groups to Rahul Gandhi during Bharat Jodo Yatra. The Congress is following through on that demand.” A socio-economic caste census was conducted by the end of 2012 covering some 25 crore households but the data could not

be published for various reasons, he pointed out.

An example of how the issue of caste-based census could be the glue for the Opposition unity is how even the Aam Aadmi Party which does not see eye-to-eye with the Congress on most issues has joined the caste-based census chorus.

The JD(U) and the RJD, which are part of the ruling ‘Mahagathbandhan’ alliance in Bihar, the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) have also been vociferously demanding caste-based census for a long time.

The caste census and the removal of the cap on reservation are also likely to put the BJP in a quandary and test its own outreach to the backward classes.

The BJP unit in Bihar had supported a resolution at an allparty meeting convened by Nitish Kumar and later a unanimous resolution was passed in the Bihar Assembly on caste census. However, the BJP’s central leadership is yet to respond to the demand for a socio-economic and caste census.

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal said the “doublespeak” of the BJP is clear from its “ambivalent position” on the Opposition demand for publishing the figures of the caste-based census of 2011.

“It (BJP) seeks the votes of the forward classes while it engages in doublespeak on backward classes,” he alleged.

Sibal added that just being on the same page on this issue

was not enough and that the Opposition unity requires much more than this.

RJD MP Manoj Jha, another prominent voice in the Opposition ranks, also underlined the importance of the caste-based census issue. “We have been demanding caste-based census, it started in 2010-11 when Lalu ji, Sharad ji and Mulayam ji raised this question and the then UPA government agreed to it. Subsequently, 2014 heralded (Narendra) Modi ji’s victory and myself and other MPs raised the question as to what happened to the data and we were told that the data got corrupted. Don’t know whether the corruption was of the data or somewhere else,” Jha told PTI.

“The Kolar speech of Rahul ji provided a further impetus to the demand made by several state governments and leaders from diverse political parties. It is important to see that it is not a political issue, it involves deepening of democracy, who would not want deepening of democracy, it involves psychological, social and political empowerment of communities, it involves ensuring of representation in accordance with their population,” the RJD leader said.

Having said that, it is important to collectively raise this issue and tell the prime minister and his party that politics cannot be rhetorical, one has to come down to the ground and look at what are the critical issues, he said.

“The critical issue is that

in the governance structure and bureaucracy, the representation of SCs, STs and OBCs is negligible. Can a democracy live with such anomalies that is our question and that is how we will take it up forward,” he asserted. Political commentator Sanjay Jha, who was once a spokesperson for the Congress party, alleged that India has been devastated by a double whammy -- unemployment crisis and extreme inequality -- under the current government.

“The biggest sufferers are those from underprivileged communities and the backward classes. No amount or number of social welfare programmes being propagated by the BJP can neutralize the deprivation and the economic destitution of millions of Indians. Therefore the Opposition is completely justified in focusing on social justice as its key political message,” he told PTI.

“That’s why a nervous BJP is prevaricating on the caste census, as at core, it remains an upper caste party. Further, it is a party of the rich, by the rich, for the rich,” he claimed.

A leader on condition of anonymity said that with the BJP likely to use its Hindutva plank to consolidate its vote bank, the demands for a caste-based census and the removal of reservation cap could be the Opposition’s “Brahmastra” ahead of the 2024 elections.

Asim Kamal PTI

Does agitation or moodiness classify as a severe mental disorder?

Everybody experiences occasional restlessness, agitation, or moodiness. Nonetheless, some people take advantage of anxiousness, a more intense form of unease that results in less concentration.

Agitation can be exceedingly painful and upsetting. It also interferes with social connections and professional performance, and in some cases, it raises the likelihood that someone would damage himself or others.

“People who suffer from mood problems may be more likely to become agitated. Bipolar illness and depression are examples of mood disorders that can be treated medically and cause changes in cognition, energy, and behaviour. Anyone can be affected by them, regardless of age, ethnicity, or social standing,” says Kanchan Rai, an emotional and mental well-being coach.

“A period of agitation is characterised by insig -

nificant motions, such as trembling hands. Additional signs include hostility, a lack of self-control, stress, and aggressive or disruptive behaviour. Even though it frequently coexists with stress, clinicians typically designate the term ‘moodiness’ to identify serious mental activity that stems from emotional discomfort. These outward habits act as an expression of the person’s emotions. Agitation is a sign of a medical ailment, such as a mood disorder or feeling nervous. When a person’s treatment for depression or bipolar disorder isn’t functioning as effectively as it should, they frequently become agitated. It can also be brought on by traumatic or extremely stressful circumstances. A person may at first come across as caustic. If the stress intensifies, they may begin to pace, lash out vocally, clench their fists, or even act in a threatening or confrontational manner.”

IANSlife caught up

with Kanchan, the founder of Let Us Talk to get more information.

Excerpt:

What are the signs of agitation or moodiness?

Kanchan: Some of the symptoms of agitation or moodiness are Irrational or impulsive behaviour, disruptive outbursts, excessive talking or moving other than usual days. Along with this, difficulty concentrating or continuing with the conversation, pacing or shuffling feet, stress, anxiety, impatience, wringing hands, or clenching fists.

What effect does agitation have?

Kanchan: People with mood disorders may struggle to perform successfully at jobs, school, or at home due to the uncomfortable emotions of moodiness. This frequently causes severe disruptions to their everyday life and hinders their capacity to accomplish their objectives. Relationships might suffer from stress. People who experience this may

become intolerable with repetitive actions. Even close friends and family members could start to lose patience with someone who finds it difficult to hold a meaningful discussion. Being upset makes it challenging to focus on everything. Tasks relating to your career can frequently become almost unattainable. Conversations with colleagues or employers may result in rigidity.

Agitated people frequently struggle to fall asleep at night. Hence, lack of sleep could exacerbate the disease and cause other health issues. Furthermore, it may be challenging for them to appropriately describe patients’ symptoms and medical background to their doctors, which makes treating their mood problems more challenging. Several studies indicate that agitation increases the probability of suicidal behaviour.

What treatment and preventative options are available?

Kanchan: Accurately

identifying and treating a person’s health problems or other underlying diseases is the first step in preventing agitation. It usually goes away when depression, bipolar disorder, or other diseases are properly controlled.

In case you start to feel anxious at a serious level, get assistance. The best outcomes frequently come from early intervention, and being alert. The intensely unpleasant feelings can be reduced with appropriate treatment. An agitation crisis can be avoided by recognizing and dealing with its early warning signals before they intensify.

Mood swings are a common occurrence in life. They can, however, become a symptom of a mental health condition which should be guided by the specialist or as required.

Well, a medical expert can suggest techniques for curing such mental syndrome.

How to treat your close

ones that are facing mental disorders?

Kanchan: Remain close to the one who is going through an agitation phase. Avoid walking or running away from that individual if it is all feasible. Make sure you and others are safe. Remove harmful things from the surrounding. Reduce other kinds of stimulation, such as loud noises, vivid colours, and extreme temperatures, and remove all unwanted furniture from space if it is possible.

Listen, If the person is at ease enough to speak, pay close attention. Reiterating statements can aid in establishing a verbal connection while preventing agitation from rising.

Some lifestyle practices, such as a better sleep quality and giving yourself space from work, may be useful if agitation is mild to moderate and does not entail hostility.

N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe (IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

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H. Ikato Zhimomi, President, Kuhuboto Ghakhu Students’ Union

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MNS’s Nashik city chief quits

NASHIK (MAHA), APR

19 (PTI): Maharashtra

Navnirman Sena’s (MNS)

Nashik city unit chief Dilip Datir resigned from his post on Wednesday. While he cited personal reasons in his resignation letter to party chief Raj Thackeray, internal politics might have prompted him to quit, sources said. Nashik in north Maharashtra was once a stronghold of the party. In the letter, Datir thanked Thackeray for reposing faith in him and said though he was resigning from his post, he will remain a member of the party forever. He was appointed as the MNS’s city president last year.

Ambulance kills street vendor

NAGPUR, APR 19 (PTI):

A 59-year-old street vendor was killed and a pedestrian was injured after a speeding ambulance hit them in Nagpur city of Maharashtra, police said on Wednesday. Police have arrested the 21-year-old driver of the ambulance for rash and negligent driving. The incident occurred in Sakardara area on Tuesday evening when the ambulance was shifting a body. The injured duo was rushed to the government hospital where doctors declared the 59-year-old vendor dead.

Two youths die while performing bike stunts

CHENNAI, APRIL 19 (IANS): Two youths sustained grievous head injuries while performing bike stunts at Hosur in Tamil Nadu’s Krishnagiri district on Wednesday and died on the spot, while another youth suffered serious head injuries and is admitted in a hospital, police said. The deceased youths were identified as Sabari, 24, and Harsha, 24, of Hosur. Police said that the two youths, along with their friend Nebik, went to Hosur on Wednesday to perform bike stunts. During performance the bikes rammed against each other inflicting serious head injuries to all three. While Sabari and Harsha died on the spot, the condition of Nebek is extremely critical and he is admitted at the government general hospital, Hosur.

Two freight trains collide in MP

BHOPAL, APRIL 19 (IANS): A loco pilot died while at least three more railways employees were injured as two freight trains collided in Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday morning. Impact of the collision was so strong that several bogies of the trains overturned and one of the engines caught fire. The injured have been rushed to a nearby hospital, and the fire was doused. Railways officials swung into action to clear the track.

As per reports, the incident occurred due to signal overshoot. While one of the trains was stopped on the track, the other one coming from the opposite direction rammed into it. The incident occurred near Singhpur railway station in Shahdol district, which falls under South-East Central Railway division. Due to the incident, the movement of several other trains got disrupted.

Verdict in Rahul’s plea likely today

AHMEDABAD, APR 19 (PT): A sessions court in Gujarat’s Surat is likely to pronounce its order on Thursday on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s plea for a stay on his conviction in a criminal defamation case over his “Modi surname” remark. A stay order could pave the way for Gandhi’s reinstatement as a Member of Parliament.

The court of Additional Sessions Judge RP Mogera had last Thursday reserved its verdict for April 20 on Gandhi’s application for a stay on conviction pending his appeal against a lower court’s order sentencing him to two years in jail in the case. Gandhi had earlier submitted that the trial court treated him harshly after being overwhelmingly influenced by his status as an MP.

The 52-year-old politician was elected to the Lok Sabha from Wayanad in Kerala in 2019 but was disqualified a day after a metropolitan magistrate

court in Surat on March 23 sentenced him to two years in jail in a case filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Purnesh Modi under sections 499 and 500 (defamation) of the Indian Penal Code.

Gandhi had on April 3 moved the sessions court against the lower court’s order. His lawyers also filed two applications, one for a stay on the sentence (or bail till the disposal of his appeal) and another for a stay on conviction till the disposal of the appeal.

While granting Gandhi bail, the court issued notices to complainant Purnesh Modi and the state

government on his plea for a stay on conviction. It heard both parties on Thursday last week and reserved the order for April 20.

MLA Modi had filed a criminal defamation case against Gandhi over his remarks, “How come all thieves have Modi as the common surname?” made during an election rally at Kolar in Karnataka on April 13, 2019.

Arguing for Gandhi’s plea for a stay on conviction, his lawyer told the court that the trial in the case was “not fair” and there was no need for maximum punishment in the case. In his submission, Gandhi said that if the March 23 judgment of the trial court is not suspended and stayed, it will cause irreparable damage to his reputation.

He said the excessive sentence is contrary to the law on the subject and unwarranted in the present case which has overriding political overtones.

Gandhi termed his

Will resign if proven I dialled Shah over TMC’s national status: Mamata

KOLKATA, APR 19 (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said she will resign if it is proven that she dialled Union Home Minister Amit Shah after the Trinamool Congress lost the national party status.

Banerjee, who was speaking to reporters at West Bengal’s state secretariat, said that her party’s name will remain the All India Trinamool Congress.

“I will resign if it is proven that I called up Amit Shah over TMC’s national party status,” she said, rejecting Bengal’s leader of opposition Suvendu Ad -

hikari’s claim that she had made the call.

Adhikari on Tuesday claimed that Banerjee had dialled Shah after the Election Commission revoked TMC’s national party status to request him to repeal the decision.

Banerjee, also the

Udhyanidhi Stalin slaps legal notice on TN BJP chief

CHENNAI, APR 19

(PTI): DMK Youth Wing chief and Tamil Nadu Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin on Wednesday sent a legal notice to state BJP president K Annamalai over certain allegations made by the latter titled the “DMK Files.”

Udhayanidhi, son of Chief Minister and DMK president M K Stalin, demanded Rs 50 crore as damages from Annamalai, besides an unconditional apology.

Annamalai had released the “DMK Files,” last week, making allegations of graft against party leaders including Stalin.

The party has already sent Annamalai a Rs 500 crore legal notice for his “baseless” allegations made against the Chief Minister.

The notice issued by P Wilson Associates Law Firm “under instructions” from Udhayanidhi also took exception to Annamalai naming his children, “including minor daughter” and said this was a violation of the wards’ privacy.

“.... and our client states that he will initiate appropriate prosecution in accordance with law including but not limited to proceedings before Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005,” it said.

Categorically denying Annamalai’s claim over his

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assets, the Youth Welfare and Sports Development Minister dismissed them as “per se false, concocted” and made with the intention to tarnish his reputation.

Udhayanidhi demanded an unconditional, public apology from Annamalai, besides asking him to “remove the offending video” containing the allegations from his social media pages and a website.

TMC supremo, said, “It was the norm to review the national party status of all parties after 10 years. That would mean the next review should have been in 2026 … But they did it in 2019.”

“My party’s name will remain the ‘All India Trinamool Congress’. If the BJP has any problem, they can approach the Election Commission and we will approach the common people,” she thundered.

The ECI withdrew the national party status of the TMC, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) last week.

conviction as “erroneous” and “patently perverse” and said the trial court treated him harshly after being overwhelmingly influenced by his status as an MP.

“The appellant has been treated harshly at the stage of determination of sentence taking into account his position as a Member of Parliament, hence the far-reaching implications would have been in the knowledge of the trial court,” he said.

The Congress leader said that he was sentenced in a manner so as to attract the order of disqualification because the trial court was well aware of his status as a Parliamentarian.

The bye-election once held in Gandhi’s Lok Sabha constituency due to his disqualification cannot be undone if his conviction is not stayed even if the court subsequently acquits him, he said. Such an election will also cause irreparable loss to the state exchequer, he said.

Confident that Army can deal with any contingency along LAC: Rajnath Singh

NEW DELHI, APR 19 (PTI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday asked the top commanders of the Indian Army to maintain a strong vigil along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China as the situation in the northern sector remained “tense” due to the deployment of Chinese PLA troops.

In his address at the Army Commanders’ Conference, Singh, referring to the eastern Ladakh border standoff, expressed full confidence in the Army to deal with any contingency while noting that ongoing talks for a peaceful resolution of the row will continue and that disengagement and de-escalation were the best way forward. Singh said a “whole of the government” approach is being followed to ensure the availability of best weapons, equipment and clothing to the troops braving e xtreme weather and hostile forces to defend

the country’s territorial integrity, according to the defence ministry.

The Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a three-year confrontation in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks.

The defence minister reaffirmed the faith of the billion-plus citizens in the Indian Army as one of the

most trusted and inspiring organisations in the country.

“The situation is tense due to the deployment of PLA troops in the northern sector. Our armed forces, especially the Indian Army, will have to continuously keep their vigilance in order to maintain the security of the LAC,” he said, according to sources.

The defence minister said the security of the country is the “topmost priority” for the government.

PM Modi to visit Kerala for two days

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, APR 19 (PTI):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive in Kerala on April 24 for a two-day visit and attend a host of programmes including the flagging off of the muchawaited Vande Bharat Express train here.

The BJP state unit, which is making all arrangements to accord a grand reception to the PM, shared a poster on Facebook announcing his visit, saying the “world leader” was coming to Kerala and tens of thousands of people would take part in a huge road show in Kochi on April 24.

However, they did not specify whether the PM

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himself would take part in the road show or not, but said Modi would be given a grand reception at the international airport here when he arrives to flag off the semi-high speed Vande Bharat Express on April 25.

“It is a historic moment that Kerala is waiting for,” the BJP said, describing the Vande Bharat being allotted to Kerala as the PM’s “Vishu kaineettam” (Vishu gift).

Modi is also likely to travel along with a group of school children in the new train and interact with them, sources added.

As the general elections are around the corner, with just about a year to

go, the party’s propaganda machinery is pulling out all the stops to give maximum publicity to the allotment of the train to the state.

The BJP leaders drew parallels between Vande Bharat and the state government’s shelved Silverline project and claimed that while the Pinarayi Vijayan

NOTICE

government tried to bring development by evicting thousands of people, the Modi government was doing it without causing difficulty to anyone. Modi is also visiting the southern state amidst the saffon party’s massive minority outreach programme that apparently has evoked a positive response from a section of priests of various Christian denominations. The party leaders’ recent visit to Christian families and their breakfast meetings with some priests in the community are being viewed as part of their efforts to reach out to minorities ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

GOVERNOR'S AWARD FOR DISTINCTION IN ARTS, MUSIC, LITERATURE 2023

Udhayanidhi Stalin

Rahul Gandhi

Rajnath Singh visits an exhibition at the Army Commanders’ Conference, at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. (PTI)

Narendra Modi

Mamata Banerjee

Startups bring down unemployment rate

NEW DELHI, APR 19

(AGENCIES): Startups in India are contributing towards bringing down the unemployment rate in the country to a great extent, Software Technology Park of India Director General Arvind Kumar said here. Kumar was in the city recently to unveil STPI incubation facility. Any NGO registered as a private limited company with a novel idea that meets the set criteria can be taken up as a startup.

Interacting exclusively with IANS, he said, “Currently, around 10,000 startups are being supported by us, and these entities have been instrumental in creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. In the long run, they are going to create a very large volume of jobs, he added. In Rajasthan, there are around 80-85 startups being supported by his technology park, he said.

To a question on fear of slowdown and startup failure, he said, “Startup failure is gradually reducing in India. Startup itself means a new idea which needs to find acceptance in the market and hence there are

chances of failure and hence comes its name as start-up which means you don’t have hundred per cent chances of success. However, these days, we are working on an idea to bring in the problem statement from industry, so that there are less chances of failure and more chances of acceptability and adaptability, he added.

“We have started doing industry collaborations so startup failure has reduced. Now, there are Industry and academy partners as well and we are also providing administrative support to them,” said Kumar.

He further said that failure is a part of the startup ecosystem not just in India but also in the developed part of the world. “Our

Nagas in Assam incensed...

(From p-1) Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly Debabrata Saikia on Tuesday urged Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for action against the Bihu exponent Ranjit Gogoi. In a letter to the chief minister, Saikia said: “I am expressing my concern regarding the recent Bihu song performed by Ranjit Gogoi during the Guinness World Record attempt on April 13, which has hurt the sentiments of the Naga people.

Nagaland Medical College head towards June opening

Ranjit Gogoi at the event,” the Tangsa students’ body said. The All Assam Sema Naga Council has objected to the lyrics of the Bihu song used for the Guinness World Record attempt on April 14, stating that the lyrics used in the song are insulting the Naga community residing in Assam.

country has just embarked on the journey of startups, so naturally failures will be little more compared to those countries which started it some three decades back,” he said.

In developed countries, the success rate may be more because India has the first generation of start-ups compared to the US and other such countries which have third generation of startups. “We are at an evolving stage of startups”, he added.

On the challenges, he said, “Earlier, getting funds was one of the challenges. However, now since NRIs want to come back to India and become angel investors, funds are not as much of an issue as it was 20 years back.”

State govt, UNICEF agree to collaborate

(From p-1)

state during the COVID-19 pandemic and for the sustained low infant mortality rate.

She stressed on the need for improving antenatal care coverage, institutional delivery, and full Immunisation coverage for every child to survive and thrive.

Dr. Madhulika also stressed on the need to streamline the existing blood bank services in the State.

Welcoming the team, commissioner & secretary, H&FW, Y Kikheto Sema appreciated UNICEF for their constant support in the area of RMNCH+ A in the

state, support to aspirational district along with technical support and timely supply of essential medical logistics especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Admitti ng that awareness needed to be created in the minds of people to donate blood for the needy people, Kikheto Sema conveyed his appreciation to all the blood donors particularly Armed Forces towards voluntary blood donation in Nagaland.

He also stressed on the need of revamping the communitisation of health facilities, awareness generation through involvement of churches and faith leaders for which UNICEF would

also be extending support.

After the All Assam Naga Welfare Society (AANWS), the All Assam Tangsa Students’ Union slammed the use of the “racist song” that called the Nagas okora, meaning stupid or dumb. They also deplored the use of the word Nagini in the song, which apparently means ‘Naga woman’ but is construed as being likened to a snake.

“We have noticed that Naga communities have been insulted in the lyrics of the song using the words like okora Noga, Nagini, etc.,” AANWS president Shompha Wangsu and general secretary Manto Konyak said in a statement.

“The sentiments of Naga people living in Assam since time immemorial are hurt by a Bihu song performed by Bihu exponent

Sema called for continued collaboration between UNICEF and development partners especially in the area of maternal, newborn and child health to ensure that no one is left behind.

He said that UNICEF and state partnership would further be strengthened through the meeting. UNICEF team also visited health facilities and interacted with health care workers.

Dr. Madhulika was accompanied by Health Specialist, North East State (Except Assam), Ashish Dadwal. Principal director, DoHFW, Dr. Vibeituonuo M Sachu was also attended the meeting.

The Council has condemned the song for using words like “Okora Naga”, and “Nagini”, which has hurt the sentiments of the Naga people residing in the state since time immemorial. About 2.5 lakh people belonging to 10 Naga communities are spread across 11 districts of Assam.

Bihu exponent Ranjit Gogoi, who was the chief choreographer of the grand Bihu dance has issued a clarification but not an apology, after a section of Naga people raised objections to some parts of the lyrics of a song during the performance.

Addressing media Gogoi said he was making it clear that song which was decided to be part of the Bihu for the “Guinnies World Record has no relation with Nagaland.”

Further, the choreographer claimed that while singing the song there was no ill intention and delivered a song sung by the forefathers in Assam.

Joint Task Force to begin ILP check

(From p-1)

Notification: In the notification, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dimapur, Sachin Jaiswal, directed that every non-indigenous person entering Dimapur district should possess ILP and a person passing through Dimapur to other states as transit passenger must have valid ticket and Inner Line Permit (ILP).

Further, DC notified that every non-indigenous person settled in Dimapur or who entered the area of Dimapur district after November 21, 1979 and who have not yet obtained Inner Line Permit (ILP) must compulsorily procure Inner Line Permit from the office of DC Dimapur within 30 days, failing which penal action would be be initiated as per the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation 1873 (BEFR Act).

DC informed that a joint task force of district administration and police would be responsible to conduct regular ILP checking and maintain vigil for the strict implementation of ILP.

(From p-1) The minister appreciated the efforts and initiatives taken by the commissioner & secretary, principal director, NIMSR director and her team, NHAK MD and his team, Er Naro and her team and all the contractors. Konyak further requested the contractors to finish all the works by May 31 and the remainders by June 30 as per the agreements to facilitate admissions for the new academic session.

Also, addressing the press, commissioner & secretary, Kikheto Sema, said after the state government had submitted an agreement, affidavit and compliance report on February 7, the government held interviews to recruit faculty members on February 14-15. He said 19 were selected out of 48 applicants and out of those selected, 17 selected applicants had forwarded their letters of consent, Sema informed.

On March 29 and 30, he said medical department held another test where 44 applicants took the test while 13 were selected. Sema informed that around 87% of the applicants were from Nagaland. The test conducted on April 14-15 also witnessed about 84% applicants from Nagaland where 39 have been selected out of the 64 applicants and

results for the same would be announced within a day or two. Sema also said that a committee has been set up to look into the recruitment for the grade-III posts. Director and Dean, NIMSR, Prof Dr Soumya Chakraborty, said that setting up of the medical institute was an achievement for the State and the country, adding it was an asset to the country and not just for Nagaland.

She informed that necessary arrangements were being put into place to ensure smooth and timely functioning of the institute.

Dr. Chakraborty disclosed that as per NMC guidelines, out of 100 MBBS seats, 15 were all India seats while the rest 85 was set aside for Nagaland. However, if all India seats remained

unfilled, they would be added the Nagaland’s share. Asked about the recruitment of faculty members, NIMSR director assured that it was conducted by experts from across the country and in a very free and fair manner. She said that after receiving LOI, the NIMSR would come up with its prospectus and hand it over to NMC to let them distribute it across the country. Meanwhile, Sema and Chakraborty have urged the State government to consider allotment of the Urban housing complex at Keyake to be used as staff quarters for the meantime. As for the Medical college at Mon, Konyak informed that civil and construction works would start soon.

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2 TTP militants killed in Pakistan’s Punjab province

LAHORE, APR 19 (PTI):

Pakistani security forces gunned down two members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in an intelligencebased operation in the country’s Punjab province, police said on Wednesday.

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab police said it received information about the presence of five TTP terrorists in the Rajanpur district of Punjab, some 475 km from Lahore, with plans to target security personnel. “A CTD team, along with Elite Force commandos, surrounded the hideout of the terrorists and asked them to surrender. Instead, the terrorists opened fire on the raiding team which returned the fire and in the shootout, two terrorists were killed while the other three managed to flee, taking advantage of darkness,” the CTD said in a statement. Weapons and hand grenades were recovered from the crime scene. The two terrorists killed were residents of the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Indonesia’s Mt.

Semeru erupts, spews hot ash

JAKARTA, APR 19

(IANS): Mount Semeru in Indonesia’s East Java province erupted 16 times on Wednesday, spewing hot ash as far as 2 km from the crater to the southeast, authorities said. “The first eruption started at 7.10 a.m. and the second at 8.40 a.m., with a duration of 82 to 110 seconds,” said Semeru Volcano Monitoring Post Officer Sigit Rian Alfian. The mountain, as high as 3,676 metres above sea level, is in the third danger level, reports Xinhua news agency. The authorities have asked people to remain vigilant, and in particular avoid its southeastern sector of 13 km and a 5 km radius around the summit to avoid eruption.

Biden, Harris release 2022 tax returns

WASHINGTON, APR 19 (IANS): US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have released their 2022 federal income tax returns. Biden and his wife filed their income tax return jointly and reported federal adjusted gross income of $579,514, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the White House. The first couple paid $169,820 in combined federal, Delaware, and Virginia income taxes. And their 2022 effective federal income tax rate is 23.8 per cent. Harris and her husband reported federal adjusted gross income of $456,918 and paid $93,570 in federal income tax.

US: 4 dead, 3 wounded

in Maine shootings

WASHINGTON, APR 19 (IANS): Four people died and three others were wounded in two shootings in the northeasternmost US’ Maine state. Police were called to a home in Bowdoin on Tuesday morning, where they said four people were found dead. Shortly after that, gunfire reportedly erupted on Interstate 295 in Yarmouth, injuring three people who were inside their vehicles, Xinhua news agency reported. One person has been taken into custody but the person’s identity has not been released. Maine State Police confirmed that the two shootings were related, but have not provided a motive. Maine Governor Janet Mills tweeted on Tuesday afternoon that she is “shocked and deeply saddened.”

US-China mutual suspicion not to end anytime soon: Singapore PM Lee

Says‘bigtrouble’ forrestoftheworld

SINGAPORE, APR 19 (PTI): The deep mutual suspicion and fundamental distrust between the United States and China will not improve anytime soon and it will mean “big trouble” for the rest of the world, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Wednesday.

Lee, who made an official visit to Beijing earlier this month, said that the Chinese public perception of the US has deteriorated.

China’s leaders are convinced that the US is seeking to “contain, encircle and suppress” China, Lee said, quoting Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“Even if the two powers avoid a direct conflict... enduring enmity and bad relations between them will be very costly for both and will mean big trouble for the rest of the world,” Lee said in Parliament, outlining three major geopolitical tensions that make the current global situation graver than what Singapore has faced in a long time.

Singaporeans need to realise the gravity of the situation, he said. “We are facing not just one storm, but several,” Lee said, updating Singaporeans on the global situation.

While Democrats and Republicans in the US disagree on almost everything, they are united on China. The prevailing view is that efforts to work out a cooperative relationship with Beijing have failed and its growing strength and assertiveness are becoming a grave threat to US interests and values.

Therefore, their view is that the US must go for “extreme competition” with China over technology, including semiconductor chips, quantum technology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and green tech-

nologies, Lee was quoted as saying by The Straits Times newspaper. Negative perceptions of China are prevalent among the US population too, Lee said, citing the latest survey by the Pew Research Centre, which found that over 80 per cent of adults in the US have an unfavourable view of China, while nearly 40 per cent would describe China as an enemy of the US rather than as a competitor or partner.

“(The Chinese) say the East is rising, and the West is declining, and they think the time has come for China to take its rightful place in the world,” he said.

Lee added that they consider issues like Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet to be China’s domestic matters that affect its security and integrity and see no room for discussion or compromise on these issues.

“But the most dangerous flashpoint of all is Taiwan,” noted Lee, adding that Singapore rigorously upholds its “One China” policy and continues to support the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

“China considers Tai-

Urgent action needed for deteriorating air quality in South-Asian countries: ICIMOD

KATHMANDU, APR 19

wan as the most important issue, and the ‘One China’ principle to be the reddest of its red lines. But the Western alternative narrative is gaining currency,” Lee said. He said that the problem in cross-strait relations is a broader ideological issue of democracy versus autocracy, noting it is so even though most countries, including Western countries, have adopted the “One China” policies.

Tensions over Taiwan are high, Lee said, noting how China recently launched three days of extensive military exercises around Taiwan after President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy during her stopover in the US.

A media report described the exercises as “comprehensive and precise simulated attacks on the key targets in the island and surrounding waters”.

Lee expressed hope that relations between the US and China do not get worse and that both sides continue to keep lines of communication open, gradually repairing their relationship based on mutual respect and trust.

(PTI): Deteriorating air quality and hazardous levels of particulate matter (PM) in several South Asian countries, including India and Nepal, poses a severe risk to human health and must be addressed urgently, a Kathmandu-based intergovernmental knowledge centre warned on Wednesday.

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is a knowledge and learning centre working on behalf of the people of the Hindu Kush Himalaya region and its eight regional member countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the organisation pointed to recent data and expressed concern about the rising PM levels. It added that an increase in PM level poses a severe risk to human health, The Kathmandu Post newspaper re Doctors blame the worsening air quality as the main culprit for the rising number of patients suffering from respiratory illness, the report said. Air pollution, known to cause various respiratory illnesses, combined with coronavirus, which primar-

ily affects the lungs, could lead to an increase in hospitalisations and even deaths among the people infected with COVID-19, the statement said, quoting experts.

ICIMOD Senior Air Quality Specialist, Dr Bhupesh Adhikary, said that worldwide, air pollution is responsible for more deaths annually than COVID-19 to date. “Despite this catastrophic death toll, we aren’t tackling this invisible killer with anything like the same energy,” Dr Adhikary was quoted as saying in the report. He asserted that it is time to put efforts into improving air quality on a war footing.

“The good news is that we know what is causing air pollution in our region and how to make rapid progress in reducing our exposure to pollutants,” Dr Adhikary said. He urged governments, donors and NGOs to work with ICIMOD to build a

coalition to drive action on clean air. “In Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, PM2.5 levels exceeded 205 µg/m3 on April 11, 2023, with PM10 levels reaching a staggering 430 µg/m3 on April 13, 2023. These alarming data points highlight the urgent need for action to address this critical issue,” the statement said. Very unhealthy air quality points to health warnings of emergency conditions, while the entire population is more likely to be affected, the statement said, adding that hazardous levels, on the other hand, call for a health alert and everyone may experience serious health effects. Pointing that rising temperatures are causing glaciers in the region to melt at an alarming rate, the organisation warned that if global warming exceeds 2°C, it will result in the loss of 50 per cent of the glaciers in the region.

No respite in Sudan as truce falls apart, rivals battle 12 held for Beijing hospital

fire as death toll rises to 29

BEIJING, APR 19 (PTI): The death toll from a major fire at a hospital building in the Chinese capital rose to 29, including 26 patients, officials said here on Wednesday, as 12 people have been detained including the medical facility’s head and her deputy.

The fire which broke out at the Beijing Changfeng Hospital on Tuesday was extinguished within an hour, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

On Tuesday, the official media reported that 21 people were killed in the incident. The death toll later rose to 29, Deputy Director of the Beijing Municipal Health Commission Li Ang told the media here.

The victims included 26 patients, one family member of a patient, one hospital caregiver and one nurse, Li said.

Thirty-nine people who were injured in the fire were being treated in other

An investigator inspects the damage at the Changfeng Hospital in Beijing on April 19, after a fire broke out a day earlier. (AFP) hospitals, Li said. The chief of the hospital was among those detained, Li said.

More than 70 patients were affected and shifted from the fire-hit hospital admissions building in Beijing’s Fengtai district.

According to the preliminary investigation, the fire was caused by sparks from a construction project that ignited volatiles produced by combustible paint, Xinhua said.

Further investigation into the cause of the fire is

underway.

Videos circulating online show some people jumping out of the window and waiting for rescue on the outdoor air conditioning units. Others jumped to lower rooftops, state-run Global Times reported.

The city has set up a special working team to identify the cause of the accident, and those responsible for the accident will be held accountable in accordance with the law, the report said.

UK PM Rishi Sunak declares wife Akshata’s shares after probe

LONDON, APR 19 (PTI): British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s register of ministerial interests was published by the UK Cabinet Office on Wednesday, revealing his wife Akshata Murty’s shares in a childcare agency which could benefit from a policy in last month’s Budget.

The publication of the list came in the wake of a parliamentary watchdog probe opened by the UK’s Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards last week to determine if the British Indian leader had been “open and frank” in his obligation under the parliamentary “Code of Conduct”. Now, a full ‘List of Ministers’ Interests’ published online reveals Sunak’s reference to his wife’s interests as well under a section entitled “Relevant interests of spouse partner or close family member”.

“The Prime Minister’s wife is a venture capital investor. She owns a venture capital investment company, Catamaran Ventures UK Limited, and a number of direct shareholdings,” reads the register.

As a footnote, it adds: “As the Prime Minister set out in his letter to the Chair

of the Liaison Committee on April 4, 2023, this includes the minority shareholding that his wife has in relation to the company, Koru Kids.”

Downing Street had maintained that Sunak, 42, followed the rules of ministerial conduct at all times and had declared his wife’s interests as a ministerial interest.

The publication of the register comes after a gap of 11 months when the last one was released and follows the Opposition’s demands that the government come clean after the watchdog inquiry came to light.

Downing Street sources said the inquiry relates to

KHARTOUM (SUDAN), APR 19 (AP): Explosions and heavy gunfire rattled the Sudanese capital in a fifth day of fighting Wednesday after an internationally brokered truce quickly fell apart. The cease-fire failure suggested the two rival generals fighting for control of the country were determined to crush each other in a potentially prolonged conflict. With no sign of respite, desperate and terrified Sudanese who have been trapped for days in their homes by the violence began to flee, witnesses said. Residents of multiple neighbourhoods of Khartoum told The Associated Press they could see hundreds, including women and children, carrying luggage, some leaving by foot, others crowding into vehicles. “Khartoum has become a ghost city,” said Atiya Abdalla Atiya, secretary of the Doctors’ Syndicate, who is still in the capital. The generals’ fight for power has caught millions of Sudanese in the crossfire,

Nepal Prez airlifted to AIIMS, Delhi for medical treatment

KATHMANDU, APR 19 (PTI): Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel on Wednesday was airlifted to India for treatment after he was admitted to a hospital here for the second time within a month after he complained of shortness of breath, his press aide said.

Paudel, 78, was admitted to TU Teaching Hospital here on Tuesday. A preliminary investigation has revealed that he had a chest infection.

Murty’s interest in Koru Kids Ltd, which is likely to benefit from a new pilot scheme announced in the Spring Budget last month to incentivise people to become childminders.

Murty, the daughter of Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy, is listed on the UK’s Companies House register as a shareholder in Koru Kids – one of six childminder agencies in England listed on the government’s website with contact details.

The Opposition had flagged this fact last month and called for further explanations at a hearing of the Liaison Committee – made up of all House of Commons committee chairs.

President Paudel will undergo treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, (AIIMS), New Delhi, the aide said.

Kiran Pokharel, the press adviser to the President, said that the President was medevacked to India in an air ambulance around 10.30 am on Wednesday.

He was accompanied by his son Chintan Paudel and others. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Purna Bahadur Khadka, among other leaders, visited him to inquire about his health condition.

This satellite image shows a destroyed fighter aircraft and damaged hangar at Merowe airbase. (AP/PTI) as their forces have battled it out since Saturday with heavy machine guns, artillery and airstrikes in residential neighbourhoods of Khartoum, its neighbouring city Omdurman and other major towns of the country.

At least 270 people have been killed in the past five days, the UN said, but the toll is likely higher, since many bodies have been left in the streets, unreachable because of clashes. A 24hour cease-fire was to have been in effect from sundown

Tuesday to sundown

Wednesday. It was the most concrete attempt yet to bring a pause that it was hoped could be expanded into a longer truce. It came after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke separately by phone with the two rivals — the leader of the armed forces, Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.

Egypt, which backs the Sudanese military, and Sau-

d i Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have close ties to the RSF, have also been calling on all sides to stand down. But fighting continued after the intended start of the truce and through the night. Each side blamed the other for the failure. Fierce clashes between the army and RSF were reported Wednesday morning around the military’s headquarters in central Khartoum and the nearby airport, as well as around the state television building across the river in Omdurman. Bombs and artillery could be heard around the city.

A high-rise in the city centre was on fire with burning debris falling from its top floors, according to footage by the Al Arabiya news network. The battles, with heavy machine guns, artillery and airstrikes, have wreaked extensive damage, playing out in the streets of Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River, as well as in other key towns around Sudan.

TIBETAN BHUTIA BUDDHIST WELFARE ASSOCIATION IN SOLIDARITY WITH HIS HOLINESS THE 14TH DALAI LAMA

The Tibetan bhutia and buddhist Welfare Association strongly condemn the baseless and false allegations made against The Noble peace prize Laureate His Holiness the 14th dalai Lama in the social and main stream media. Just like millions of his followers, we are also emotionally heartbroken, devastated and deeply saddened over the recent unregulated and tailored video clip of a young boy and the Spiritual Leader's fun interaction been blown out of proportion just to defame and dismantle the reputation and legacy of His Holiness. It is indeed disheartening to see how more than a month old video of a playful interaction has been misinterpreted and manipulated without any beginning or an end just to negatively change the whole context.

Today with utmost compassion, we the people of TbbWA stand in solidarity with His Holiness. We once again condemn these ignorant accusations made out of misinformation and exaggeration. Kindly remember this interaction took place in front of a large audience in front of the boy's family and also in front of many cameras.

Our Spiritual Leader His Holiness the 14th dalai Lama is an epitome of Love, Compassion and integrity. His exemplary message of love, peace, compassion, kindness, non-violence and oneness remains more relevant than all of this for the betterment of mankind and humanity.

Lee Hsien Loong

Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty

President Tibetan bhutia buddhist Welfare Association dimapur : Nagaland dp -1680/23

Cabinet nod to Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023 that has provisions to curb transmission of pirated film content on the internet, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said.

Briefing reporters on the decisions taken by the Union Cabinet, Thakur said the Bill will be introduced in the upcoming session of Parliament.

He said the Bill also has provisions to classify films on the basis of age group, instead of the current practice of ‘U’, ‘A’, and ‘UA’.

“U” is for unrestricted public exhibition and “A” is restricted to adult audiences, while “UA” is for unrestricted public exhibition subject to parental guidance for children below the age of 12.

Thakur said wide-

Your background doesn’t matter, it is who you become: Nandini

Anurag Thakur

ranging consultations were held with stakeholders on the Bill.

“This Bill will live up to the expectations of the industry.... This Bill is going to satisfy each and every one without any controversy,” the minister said.

He said there were demands from various stakeholders to take action to curb piracy, on age-based film classification and certain redundant provisions in the existing Act.

A Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill was

introduced in the Rajya Sabha in 2019 and the new draft was based on consultations with the film industry and also incorporates the best practices from across the world, he said. Thakur refrained from sharing more details of the Bill and said its provisions would become clear once the draft legislation is introduced in Parliament.

Last week, Information and Broadcasting Secretary Apurva Chandra, at an event in Mumbai, had said that provisions regarding transmission of film content on the internet were being added in the Bill.

“If that happens, it will go a long way in protecting copyright and we will be able to block those websites where pirated content is transmitted. But let’s see how it goes in Parliament and how it proceeds,” Chandra had said. (PTI)

As the daughter of a farmer and a homemaker, Miss India World 2023 Nandini Gupta says she never let her background come in the way of her childhood dream of participating in a beauty pageant.

Gupta, 19, was announced the winner on Saturday night in Imphal, Manipur, where she beat out competition from 29 other contestants.

The newly-crowned Miss India World said she lived a simple life in Kota, Rajasthan, before moving to Mumbai to study business management at Lala Lajpatrai College. In Mumbai, the former Miss Rajasthan started preparing for the Miss India World pageant alongside her studies.

“My father is a farmer, my mother is a homemaker and she helps him too. Your background doesn’t matter, it is who you become. No matter where you come from, life is a journey... That’s why I pol-

Harry Styles, Kate Bush among nominees for Ivor songwriting awards

Singers Harry Styles and Kate Bush are among the nominees at next month’s Ivors, the annual awards honouring songwriters and screen composers.

Kate Bush is being recognised for her 1985 song “Running Up That Hill” which enjoyed a resurgence in popularity last year thanks to Netflix show “Stranger Things”, the UK-based Ivors Academy said on Tuesday evening.

The track will compete against Styles’ mega hit “As It Was” in the most performed work category, which also includes Glass Animals’ “Heat Waves” and two songs by hitmaker Ed Sheeran, “Shivers” and “Bad Habits”.

Sheeran won the category last year with “Bad Habits” and it is the first time the same song has been nominated for the award two years running.

Styles has three nominations overall, including best song musically and lyrically for “As It

Was” and songwriter of the year alongside his collaborator Kid Harpoon.

That category also includes singer Florence Welch, Wet Leg duo Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers, George Daniel and Matty Healy of pop rock group

The 1975 and rapper Central Cee with collaborator Young Chencs.

Album of the year contenders include rock group Arctic Monkeys’ “The Car”, Irish postpunk band Fontaines D.C.’s “Skinty Fia” and Nigerian-born artist Obongjayar’s “Some Nights I Dream of Doors”.

Rapper Little Simz’s album “No Thank You” and music collective Sault’s “11” are also nomi-

nated, both with credits for singer-songwriter Cleo Sol and producer Dean “Inflo” Josiah Cover. The duo have three nominations overall. Tom Odell’s “Best Day of My Life”, Katie Gregson-Macleod’s “complex”, Sault’s “Stronger” and Florence + the Machine’s “King” complete the Best Song Musically and Lyrically category.

“The music nominated for an Ivor Novello this year is testament to the power and range of British and Irish songwriting and screen composing,” Tom Gray, chair of The Ivors Academy, said in a statement. “It’s a superlative list.” Box office hit “Avatar: The Way of Water” and psychological drama “Don’t Worry Darling” are among the nominees for best original film score.

Named after the early 20th century Welsh composer, actor and entertainer Ivor Novello, the Ivor Awards were first handed out in 1956. This year’s awards take place on May 18 in London. (Reuters)

ished myself in such a way that it made me determined and ambitious,” she told PTI in an interview post her win.

Gupta remembers being mesmerised by former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Bachchan while watching “Devdas” at a young age.

That was the beginning of the dream to win a beauty pageant, she said, crediting her mother for inspiring her at the age of 10.

“The crown attracted me. When I saw it in a newspaper, I was like, ‘How do we get this?’ My mother was watching ‘Devdas’ on DVD, I was mesmerised looking at

FIR against actor Sahil Khan for threatening woman at Mumbai gym

The Mumbai Police have registered an FIR against Bollywood actor Sahil Khan and a woman for allegedly threatening a 43-year-old gym-goer and uploading her defamatory posts on social media, an official said on Wednesday.

According to the complainant, a resident of suburban Oshiwara, she had a quarrel with a woman at a gym over money in February 2023. The accused woman and the actor abused the complainant and threatened her, the official said. The accused duo also uploaded defamatory posts on social media against the complainant and her family members, he said quoting the First Information Report (FIR) registered on Tuesday.

A case was registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for defamation, threat, and a bid to insult the modesty of a woman at Oshiwara police station.

The official said the accused woman had an affair with the husband of the complainant and had lodged a case against him at a police station. Khan has acted in movies including Style, Xcuse Me, Aladin and Ramaa: The Saviour. (PTI)

Bad Habits That Can Hurt Your Brain

nis, bridge -that involves other people.

You Eat

Too Much Junk Food

You Miss Out on Sleep

You Miss Out on Sleep

You Miss Out on Sleep

You Miss Out on Sleep

You do a few things you know you shouldn’t -- we all do. But some of those bad habits can take a toll on your brain. For example, lack of sleep may be a cause of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. It’s best to have regular sleeping hours. If you have trouble with sleep, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and electronics in the evening, and start a soothing bedtime ritual.

You Have Too Much

Alone Time

Humans are wired for social contact. It’s not about how many Facebook friends you have -- what matters is a real sense of connection. People who have that with even just a few close friends are happier and more productive. They’re also less likely to suffer from brain decline and Alzheimer’s. If you feel alone, call some friends or start something new -- salsa dancing, ten -

Parts of the brain linked to learning, memory, and mental health are smaller in people who have lots of hamburgers, fries, potato chips, and soft drinks in their diet. Berries, whole grains, nuts, and green leafy vegetables, on the other hand, preserve brain function and slow mental decline. So next time you start to reach for a bag of chips, grab a handful of nuts instead.

You Blast Your Headphones

With your earbuds at full volume, you can permanently damage your hearing in only 30 minutes. But it’s not just your ears: Hearing loss in older adults is linked to brain problems, such as Alzheimer’s and loss of brain tissue. This may be because your brain has to work so hard to understand what’s being said around you that it can’t store what you’ve heard into memory.

So turn it down -- no louder than 60% of your device’s maximum volume -- and try not to listen for more than a couple of hours at a time.

You Don’t Move

The longer you go without regular exercise, the more likely you are to have dementia. You’re also more likely to get diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure -- all of which may be linked to Alzheimer’s. You don’t have to start running marathons -- a half-hour in the garden or a brisk walk around the neighborhood will work. The important thing is to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.

You Still Smoke

It can shrink your brain -- and that’s not a good thing. It makes your memory worse and makes you twice as likely to get dementia, including Alzheimer’s. It also causes heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and high blood pressure.

You Overeat

If you eat too much food -- even the right kind of food -- your brain may not be able to build the strong network of connections that help you think and remember. Overeat for too long and you may get dangerously overweight, which can cause heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure -- all linked to brain problems and Alzheimer’s.

You Stay in the Dark Too Much

If you don’t get enough natural light, you may get depressed, and that can slow your brain. Research also shows that sunlight helps keep your brain working well.

You Miss Out on Sleep

F EL ICITATI ON

Lotha Youth Organization Dimapur (LYOD) would like to congratulate Shri Myinthungo Ababe Ezung who has been recently appointed as OSD (Transport) in status of additional secretary to oversee matters pertaining to civil aviation, inland waterways and railways.

Aishwarya’s beauty, and I asked my mother, ‘Who is she?’ She said, ‘She is Miss World’. I was like ‘How do you become that?’ and when she told me about it, I wanted to become one,”

Gupta said.

Over the years, Gupta said she saw the contribution of beauty queens towards society and how they excelled in their lives. She hopes to use her popularity to create more employment opportunities for women.

“Coming from a small town, I had big dreams and today people have opened up their heart to me... Miss India is not only a platform that brings you closer to

your dreams, it also gives you a voice, because people start to follow you,” she said.

The idea behind studying business management was to groom herself as an entrepreneur, Gupta added. She credits her father for instilling the importance of education in her. She also shared that he was initially apprehensive about her interest in the glamour field.

“He was keen towards studies. As soon as he started seeing the passion in me, how I lived alone in Mumbai, how I managed things, how I was studying and not going anywhere, he changed his mind.

“After my selection as Miss Rajasthan, his mindset totally changed. I get his insecurity about taking a career (in the glamour industry). So, I made sure I am not disheartening him by not continuing with studies.”

Which is why Gupta felt emotional to see her

father’s reaction after her Miss India win.

“After my win, my mother didn’t cry, but my father cried and hugged me for the first time in my life. It was a proud (feeling) and

(I saw) happy tears on his face for the first time.

“I remember how the crowd was cheering up, but the only glimpse I have is of my father standing up and tears rushing from his eyes,” she added.

Gupta will represent India next year at the 71st edition of the Miss World pageant, to be held in the UAE.

She hopes to stay grounded despite her newfound fame.

“My parents have always taught me to be grounded. No matter how high you reach, you have to come back to your roots. I relate to Ratan Tata, he is a philanthropist, he owns a million-dollar empire and he is still so grounded. I can be a business woman and be grounded like him,” she said. (PTI)

Foo Fighters releases first album since Taylor Hawkins’ death

Foo Fighters has announced its first album since the sudden death of its drummer Taylor Hawkins in March 2022, reports ‘Variety’. ‘But Here We Are’ is set to arrive on June 2, with its lead single, ‘Rescued’, available now.

“A brutally honest and emotionally raw response to everything Foo Fighters endured over the last year, ‘But Here We Are’ is a testament to the healing powers of music, friendship and family,” a media release from the Seattle-based rock group said, according to ‘Variety’.

“Courageous, damaged and unflinchingly authentic, ‘But Here We Are’ opens with newly released lead single ‘Rescued’, the first of 10 songs that run the emotional gamut from rage and sorrow to serenity and acceptance, and myriad points in between,” the release added.

The drummer on the new song is not identi -

Reviewed by

fied and does not sound like Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl, who has concentrated on singing and rhythm guitar since he formed the band in 1995, but occasionally gets behind the kit, continues ‘Variety’. In fact, it sounds like Josh Freese, who has been widely tipped as the band’s next drummer, although no announcement has been made and reps for the group did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Wednesday morning.

The band has scheduled months of tour dates, beginning in New Hampshire (USA) on May 24,

and looks likely to spend most of the rest of the year on the road. Hawkins died on March 25, 2022, at the age of 50 before the band was set to perform at a festival in Bogota, Colombia, adds ‘Variety’. Hawkins had been the drummer for Foo Fighters since 1997, joining the band after touring with Alanis Morissette. He and Grohl were especially close, with the frontman describing Hawkins in his memoir ‘The Storyteller’ as “my brother from another mother, my best friend, a man for whom I would take a bullet.” (IANS)

We also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Neiphiu Rio for his goodwill gesture.

Further, we wish that Almighty God's blessings upon Shri Myinthungo Ababe Ezung for wisdom and wish him the best for his future endeavours.

db-493/23

With immense joy and pride, the Dimapur Lotha Students' Union (DLSU) would like to congratulate Shri. Myingthungo Ababe Ezung for being appointed as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) for the Department of Transport, GoN. We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Shri. Neiphiu Rio, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Nagaland for putting immense faith on him.

Further, the union wishes the best for his future endeavours.

LYOD President Nzanbemo Humtsoe

Medically

Dan Brennan, MD and Jennifer Robinson, MD

Sudirman Cup: Prannoy, Sindhu to lead Indian team

Bhubaneswar to host Intercontinental Cup from June

CCI Classic Billiards: Rob Hall sizzles with 600 break to charge into final

NEW DELHI, APR 19

(IANS): World No. 9 HS

Prannoy and two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu will lead the team while Lakshya Sen has been included as a reserve as India on Wednesday announced their squad for the Sudirman Cup 2023, scheduled to take place from May 14 to 21 in Suzhou, China.

The return of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, who missed the Asian Mixed Team event due to injury, will bolster the men’s doubles squad, which also have the likes of Dhruv Kapila & MR Arjun.

On the other hand, the experienced Ashwini Ponnappa and new partner Tanisha Castro will provide back up to the All England

semi-finalists Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly in the women’s doubles.

After Prannoy and Sindhu, experienced Kidambi Srikanth and reigning senior national women’s singles champion Anupama Upadhyaya will be the other singles players in the squad while Aakarshi Kashyap is the second reserve after Lakshya. The likes of Sai Pratheek and Tanisha Crasto have been named as the mixed doubles pair in the squad. India have been grouped in Group C along with Malaysia, Chinese Taipei and Australia and their first task will be to make it to the knock-out stage from a potentially tricky group.

“Sudirman Cup is a prestigious tournament and

the selectors have picked the best squad after studying the domestic and international results. We are confident that this team will challenge for a medal this year,” said Badminton Association of India (BAI) secretary Sanjay Mishra, in a media release.

Indian squad:

Men’s singles: HS Prannoy, Kidambi Srikanth (Reserve: Lakshya Sen)

Women’s singles: PV Sindhu, Anupama Upadhyaya (Reserve: Aakarshi Kashyap)

Men’s doubles: Satwiksairaj

Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty, MR Arjun/Dhruv Kapila

Women’s doubles: Gayatri

Gopichand/Treesa Jolly, Ashwini Ponnappa/Tanisha

Crasto Mixed doubles: Tanisha

Crasto/Sai Pratheek

Lajovic ousts Krajinovic in Banja Luka

NEW DELHI, APR 19

(IANS): Dusan Lajovic

won a battle of Serbians in Banja Luka, where he defeated Filip Krajinovic 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 to reach the second round of the Srpska Open.

The match, which began on Monday, resumed with Lajovic leading 2-0 in the third set on Tuesday, reports ATP.

“I think this is one of those matches where neither of us want to play and we just want to get on with it and finish the day,” Lajovic said. “Luckily I was able to win in the third.”

Lajovic has now won all three of the pair’s claycourt ATP Head2Head meetings and leads their series 3-2. The World No. 70 converted five of his nine break points to triumph after two hours and 14 minutes.

Another Serbian advanced when Laslo Djere eliminated Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-2. The 27-yearold has enjoyed success on clay before, having lifted an

FIBA opens road to Paris Olympic Games 2024

MIES, SWITZERLAND,

APR 19 (IANS): The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) will organise Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournaments this year to open the road for 40 teams to earn tickets to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, the world basketball governing body announced here.

The 12 highest-ranked teams that did not qualify for the Second Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Qualifiers, and 28 teams that participated in the Second Round but did not qualify for the 32team World Cup in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia this summer, will compete in the event, reports Xinhua.

Five winners of the 40 teams will qualify for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in 2024.

The pre-qualifying event will be held on August 12-20, 2023 and the FIBA Central Board will decide the host of the event at the meeting on April 28-29. The draw of the tournament will be on May 1, 2023.

ATP 500 trophy in Rio de Janeiro in 2019.

Former World No. 7

Richard Gasquet earned his place in the second round with a 6-3, 6-1 victory against 17-year-old Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic. The 36-year-old claimed his 14th ATP Tour

crown earlier this year in Auckland.

In an all-qualifier clash, 19-year-old Jordanian Abdullah Shelbayh defeated Swede Elias Ymer 6-1, 7-5 for his first ATP Tour win. The teen will next try to upset fourth seed Miomir Kecmanovic.

NEW

DELHI,

APR 19 (IANS): Bhubaneswar will host the senior men’s national team during the Intercontinental Cup 2023 in June, the AIFF announced on Wednesday.

The four-team Intercontinental Cup will be played in the FIFA International Window from June 9 to 18, with hosts India being joined by Lebanon, Mongolia and Vanuatu in the tournament.

This will be the third edition of the Intercontinental Cup, with the previous two being held in Mumbai (2018) and Ahmedabad (2019).

Earlier last month, Manipur hosted the TriNation international football tournament.

“Imphal had experienced the joy of International football in March, and now it’s Bhubaneswar’s turn to join the country’s growing map of international venues for men’s football,” said AIFF Secretary General Dr. Shaji Prabhakaran.

“Bhubaneswar was one of the venues of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and with that, we have seen some excellent infrastructure being developed by the Government of Odisha. It is a legacy that the U-17 Women’s World Cup has left behind and has paved the path for the Se-

nior Men’s National Team to now play in the city for the first time in its history.

If you look at what happened in Manipur, it was held for the first time, and that way we are confident that fans in Odisha will display equal enthusiasm for the event. We are also hopeful that Odisha football will benefit greatly from hosting the Hero Intercontinental Cup,” he added. The Indian men’s national team had previously never played against Mongolia and Vanuatu. Against Lebanon, the hosts hold a record of playing six matches.

The Blue Tigers are currently on a five-match unbeaten streak on home turf, a run that began on June 8, 2022, with a 2-0 win over Cambodia in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers Round 3 in Kolkata. Since then, Igor Stimac’s boys have defeated Afghanistan (2-1), Hong Kong (4-0), and then on to the Tri-Nation, where they beat Myanmar (1-0) and the Kyrgyz Republic (2-0) in Imphal.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We, the bereaved family members of Lt. Moajanger Aier convey our heartfelt gratitude to all relatives, neighbours, friends and wellwishers, who stood by us and comforted us physically, emotionally, financially with love and prayer during his brief illness and at the time of his demise on 11-04-2023.

We regret our inability to thank each and everyone personally but it is our prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

dp-1964/23

Loving Mom, Dad & Brother

MUMBAI, APR 19

(IANS): Englishman Rob Hall displayed impeccable touch and constructed a gigantic 600 point break during his resounding 1264-551 victory against Gujarat’s Dhvaj Haria in the first semi-final of the Cricket Club of India organised Rs 10 lakh prizemoney CCI Classic Invitation Billiards (time format) Championship 2023, here on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old Hall exhibited remarkable touch and excellent control as he played some fine in-offs and precision cannons and pots and started with a bang making a 105 break and a few visits he uncorked a stupendous effort of 600 points to take a firm grip of the match and went into the break with a mammoth 730-191 points lead at the end of first one-andhalf hour session. Haria had one run of 144 in the opening period.

Hall has become the only player to post two breaks over 500 points in the tournament. He had earlier constructed a high 525 break in the group stage of the competition.

The 29-year-old Gujarat cueist Haria had his share of chances but seemed a bit jaded and was unable to produce the big breaks which would certainly have helped to take the fight to the English player who later played cleverly to maintain the lead and sail through to the final. “I played well. I knew I had to play well because Dhvaj (Haria) has been playing very well in this event. We have also played each other in the past, I have won some, lost some against him, so I was aware that I had to be on top of my game. I started with a 100 break and a couple of visits later I made a 600 which put a lot of distance between us and I managed

to keep the lead through the second session and went on to clinch the win,” said Hall after the match. Hall confidently stated that it doesn’t matter who he plays in tomorrow’s final.

“Pankaj (Advani) has got to be the favourite, but Rupesh (Shah) has been playing very, very well so there might be a potential upset on the cards. I don’t really care who I will be playing in the final as long as I know I’m playing really well, it could be anybody, but right now I’m going to get some rest and prepare for the final,” he said.

Results:

Semi-finals: Rob Hall beat Dhvaj Haria 1264[105, 600, 81, 153, 55, 161UF]551[144, 61, 161, 93].

1st Death anniversary

Late Pandit C. N. Patton 20-04-2022

"I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in me will live, even though he dies" A noble soul who exhibited Love, Duty, Devotion and Vision. You have touched countless lives in your lifetime "an embodiment of selflessness and humility", Your Life remains a challenge to us. It's been a year since you left us on this day but your memories and legacy lives on. Gone from our sight but never from our hearts. Rest in Heaven's Glory until we meet again.

Loving Children, In-laws, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren dp -1679/23

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

2 Timothy 4:7

20/03/2010 – 17/04/2023

"I have fought a good fight I have finished the race I have kept the faith"

We the bereaved family members of Late Pikeka Assumi would like to express our deepest gratitude to each and every individuals that stood by us emotionally, physically, financially and spiritually during the prolonged illness of our beloved son who left for his heavenly abode on 17th April 2023 at Zion Hospital & Research Centre.

1. Doctors & Nurses, Zion Hospital & Research Centre

2. Doctors & Nurses, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi

3. Doctors & Nurses, Olive Christian Hospital & Research Centre

4. Inazhe Lagha Kuposhukulu

5. Khutovi Baptist Church

6. Akuluto Town Union Dimapur

7. NCRC Sumi Padumpukhuri

8. Ayinato Prayer & Healing Centre, Vihokhu.

9. St. Mary Higher Secondary School, Padumpukhuri

10. Living Word Ministry, 7th Mile Dimapur.

11. Living Tree Prayer Centre, Shozuvi Village.

12. Friends, Neighbours, and Well Wishers.

Despite our inability to mention each and every individual we pray that our Almighty God bless everyone who stood by us during our hard times.

d b-497/23

Father, Mother, Sister, Asu, Apuza & Family

PV Sindhu

HS Prannoy

Rob Hall

Dusan Lajovic

IPL 2023: LSG gun down RR by 10 runs

JAIPUR, APR 19 (PTI):

The pitch was far from conducive for batting, but the bowlers still had a job to do, and the ones at Lucknow Super Giants did that with aplomb for a 10-run win over Rajasthan Royals in the IPL here on Wednesday.

Chasing 155, RR were stopped at 144 for six as their return to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium after four years ended in disappointment, despite a creditable outing with the ball earlier in the evening.

RR openers Jos Buttler and Yashavi Jaiswal knew that playing strokes wouldn’t be easy on this track, but they managed to keep pace with the required run rate.

However, LSG staged a remarkable comeback to emerge winners in the end.

Young Jaiswal made 44 off 35 balls with the help of four boundaries and two sixes, while his senior opening partner Butter got 40 in 41.

LSG waited quite a bit before bringing their impact player Amit Mishra into action. And for their first breakthrough, they had to wait till the 12th over, when Jaiswal cut Marcus Stoinis to the short third man fielder Avesh

Khan, who seemed to have injured his hand while completing a low catch. Despite losing a wicket, RR were still in the driver’s seat but that changed after Sanju Samson was run out following a horrible mix up with Buttler. The game turned on its head when Buttler holed out to deep midwicket to RR at 97 for three in the 14th over. Shimron Hetmyer joined Devdutt Padikkal in

a crucial passage of play, but the former was out caught in the deep off the bowling of Avesh Khan. RR couldn’t do much after that.

Earlier, Kyle Mayers top-scored with 51 before Marcus Stoinis (21 off 16 balls) and Nicholas Pooran (28 off 20) helped the team reach 154 for seven.

Trent Boult bowled exceptionally to finish with figures 1-16 in four overs,

Para-Badminton Rankings: Pramod, Sukant become world No 1 in doubles

also the Thailand Para Badminton Tournament 2022.

“I am really happy to be World No 1 again with Sukant Kadam. Both me and Sukant have put in a lot of effort and have been working hard to reach where we have reached. This is just the start, and we are looking to build upon what we have achieved and reach for more glory and medals for India,” said Padma Shri Awardee Pramod, in a media release.

while Ravichandran Ashwin was also excellent with the ball, ending with 2/23 from his four.

Seasoned New Zealander Boult sent down two brilliant overs to justify RR skipper Samson’s decision to field first after winning the toss.

As Boult, one of the world’s leading seamers for more than a decade, went about his task in his usual manner, KL Rahul looked clueless and the pressure created by the crafty bowler got to the struggling LSK captain.

Unable to free his arms, Rahul ended up playing a Sandeep Sharma delivery in the air but the young Jaiswal fluffed the chance. He was on six at the time. After he added another six runs to his total, Rahul got another chance when Jason Holder, who normally has a safe pair of hands, dropped a skyer after running backwards from mid-off.

This was seven balls after Jaiswal had a shy at the bowler’s end and missed a run out chance with Rahul well out of crease.

Those two missed chances miffed Samson no end but RR did not have to pay a heavy price as Rahul

Northeast’s largest multipurpose indoor stadium being built in Shillong: Conrad

got out for an unconvincing 32-ball 39.

Having consumed that many deliveries, Rahul would have liked to carry his bat though the RR innings, but Holder had him with a nicely executed slower ball.

After conceding only two runs in the first two overs and 13 in his third, Boult, deservedly, got on the wicket column when he knocked over Ayush Badoni’s leg stump.

The missed chances notwithstanding, the RR bowlers were parsimonious and kept LSG to 37 for no loss in the six powerplay overs on a pitch that wasn’t the best for batting.

On and off, Mayers managed to find the boundaries, including going down the ground to hit Yuzvendra Chahal over long off for a maximum in the ninth over. Four balls later, Rahul got into the act by smoking the leg-spinner for a huge six over the deep mid wicket fence.

Brief scores:

Lucknow Super Giants: 154/7 in 20 overs (Kyle Mayers 51, K L Rahul 39; R Ashwin 2/23). Rajasthan Royals 144/6 in 20 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 44, Jos Buttler 40; Avesh Khan 3/25).

SHILLONG, APR 19 (IANS):

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday said that a multipurpose indoor stadium is being constructed in Shillong and it would be the largest multipurpose indoor stadium in the northeastern region.

He said that the indoor stadium would have facilities for different disciplines such as basketball, squash, badminton, table tennis, volleyball among others.

Sangma on Wednesday inspected the ongoing renovation, upgradation and expansion of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at Polo ground here. The renovated stadium would include a football ground with natural grass turf and also a state of the art facility for hosting track and field events.

Laying emphasis on the quality of the construction, he said that highest quality standards are being maintained and once ready it would be fit to host international sporting events.

According to the Chief Minister the renovated stadium would have a seating capacity of close to 30,000 and would be completed by December

this year. Expressing his happiness at the progress of the work, the Chief Minister was optimistic that once the state of the art facilities are completed it will provide an opportunity for the youth of the state to excel in the respective field and sporting disciplines.

During his visit, he also inspected the football field located at first ground Polo. Necessary upgradation and expansion is being carried out to improve the ground with laying of an artificial turf and construction of new stands.

Noting that the youth of the state are passionate about football, the Chief Minister said that the government is in the process

to identify local practice grounds across the state and take steps to upgrade and improve the selected grounds for the benefit of football lovers.

“We are already surveying Shillong city and we have identified five locations where we can potentially lay astro turf. With this intervention we are expecting that a large number of astro turf football grounds will come up, where our youth can practise, have matches.... That will be one of the steps towards ensuring that we are able to bring out the talent and give the opportunity for the youth who are passionate about football,” he said.

Alcaraz cruises to opening victory at Barcelona Open

BARCELONA, APR 19 (AP): Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz opened his title defense at the Barcelona Open with a comfortable 6-3, 6-1 win over Nuno Borges.

The top-seeded Spaniard, No. 2 in the world, converted five of his seven break opportunities to secure the win at the Rafa Nadal center court on Tuesday.

A two-time winner this year, Alcaraz is making his 2023 debut on the European clay-court tour. He had not competed since Miami in March, skipping Monte Carlo because of inflam -

NEW

DELHI, APR 19

(IANS): Ace India parashuttlers Pramod Bhagat and Sukant Kadam, who won the gold medal at the recently concluded Brazil Para-Badminton International 2023, became the world No 1 in the men’s doubles category in the latest Badminton World Federation (BWF) ranking released on Wednesday.

The duo of Pramod and Sukant, who has been playing together for the past eight months in the men’s doubles SL 3- SL 4 category, has won the gold medal in the last three tournaments.

They secured gold medals in Brazil Para-Badminton International 2023, Spanish Para-Badminton International 2023 and

“The hard work has paid off and this is just the beginning. We plan to continue our great form into the upcoming tournaments. Becoming World, No 1 will motivate us to work harder and double our efforts in practice. There are a few more areas where we need to work, and the focus will be on those,” said Sukant.

The duo will be now preparing for upcoming tournaments like Thailand Para-Badminton International 2023 and Bahrain Para-Badminton International 2023 to name a few.

mation in his left hand and back pain.

Alcaraz’s next opponent will be fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut, the 13th-seed who defeated Bernabe Zapata Miralles 6-2, 6-2. Fifth-seeded American Frances Tiafoe lost 6-4, 6-7 (3), 6-4 to Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland. The 40th-ranked Ruusuvuori rallied from 3-0 down in the final set.

Earlier, Casper Ruud reached the quarterfinals for a second straight year by beating Ben Shelton 6-2, 7-6 (1). The third-seeded

Norwegian lost to Shelton last year in Cincinnati, where the American was a relatively unknown college player ranked 229th in the world.

The 20-year-old Shelton, who had his breakout tournament in Cincinnati, made his first appearances in clay-court tournaments this season and has reached No. 37 in the world. He was eliminated in the first round in Monte Carlo and in the second round in Estoril.

Ruud won his first title of the year in Estoril

this month. He will next face 15th-seeded Francisco Cerúndolo or Francesco Passaro, who defeated Fernando Verdasco 6-1, 6-1 on Tuesday. Also, Diego Schwartzman defeated Wu Yibing 6-2, 6-2 to set up second-round matchup against fourth-seeded Jannik Sinner. David Goffin beat Feliciano Lopez 7-6 (3), 6-7 (4), 6-0, while Alejandro Davidovich Fokina defeated Tomas Martin Etcheverry 6-3, 6-3. Qualifier Matteo Arnaldi defeated Jaume Munar 6-3, 6-4.

Stuttgart Open: Ostapenko overpowers Raducanu in opener

STUTTGART (GERMANY), APR 19 (IANS): Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia, who won the French Open back in 2017, secured a dominant 6-2 6-1 victory over former US Open champion Emma Raducanu in the opening round of the Stuttgart Open, which kicked off the European clay-court swing this week.

Ostapenko needed only 58 minutes to overpower Raducanu, who made the quarterfinals in Stuttgart last year. Behind 19 forehand winners, Ostapenko dominated play from the baseline to give Raducanu no inroads in the match.

“I knew against her the main thing was to step in the court. Of course, I missed some balls but I

tried to be aggressive all the time when it was possible. Just try to take the ball early, don’t give her many chances. And finally, I’m back on clay, my favorite surface,” Ostapenko said after the win.

Ostapenko will next face World No.4 and Charleston champion Ons Jabeur on Wednesday.

As the Latvian eyes her first tour-level match on clay against Jabeur, Ostapenko should like her chances. The two have split their two recent meetings, with Jabeur winning on the indoor hard courts of Ostrava and Ostapenko winning their last match on grass in Eastbourne. In 2017, Ostapenko came to Paris as a 19-year-old big-hitting

talent and went on to celebrate her 20th birthday by defeating Simona Halep in the final to win Roland

Garros. At the time, Ostapenko was the youngest French Open champion in 20 years and the lowest-ranked Slam champion since the introduction of computer rankings. Probably (need) to bring back this fearlessness, but of course it’s tougher when you get older. You start to think more and of course you want to play better and more consistently,’ she said. In other action, Paula Badosa scored her first Top 10 win in 12 months after defeating Daria Kasatkina 6-1, 6-1 in just 70 minutes in the first round. She will next face qualifier Cristina Bucsa in an all-Spanish encounter as she bids to return to the quarterfinals for a second straight year.

ACMilanenterUCLsemisforfirsttimein16years;Realintosemis Suryakumar continues to lead ICC T20 rankings

Rodrygodoubleeases

Real into semi-finals

Holders Real Madrid breezed past Chelsea into the semi-finals of the Champions League with Rodrygo’s double securing a 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday to set up a likely mouth-watering clash with Manchester City.

Zealand and Sri Lanka earlier this year. Former skipper Virat Kohli is the next best Indian batter on the list as he remained static on 15.

NAPLES, APR 19 (IANS): Seven-time winners AC Milan are back in the last four of the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 2007 after a 1-1 draw with Napoli secured their progress. In another match, Holders Real Madrid breezed past Chelsea into the semi-finals of the Champions League with Rodrygo’s double securing a 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday to set up a likely mouth-

watering clash with Manchester City.

After a narrow win in the first leg, a battling 1-1 draw in Naples saw Milan making the final four of Europe’s elite competition for the first time in 16 years. They joined Juventus as the Italian team with most number of appearances at this stage of the competition (seven).

A deserved lead for the Lian did eventually come, though, after

43 minutes when Leao accelerated away and got past three defenders before squaring to Olivier who slotted home into an open net to make it 1-0. The second half started off with an early opportunity for Kvaratskhelia, who fired over from a good position. The tempo of the game showed no signs of letting up, with AC Milan organised and compact up against the home side’s forward attacks.

Napoli gave AC Milan backline a slight scare in the 58th and 60th minute, first through Kvaratskhelia, whose attempt was off target, and Lozano, who shot over the bar with his left.

Changes from both sides didn’t alter the pattern, with AC Milan only conceding long-range efforts to the hosts. After 81 minutes, Napoli earned a penalty from Tomori’s handball, but Mike Maig-

nan got the better of Kvaratskhelia and made a super diving save to maintain the AC Milan’s one-goal advantage.

Napoli did find an equaliser deep into stoppage-time through Osimhen’s header, after Raspadori’s cross in, but AC Milan held on to go through to the semifinals. The focus will now turn to the semifinals, where AC Milan will face either Inter or Benfica.

Chelsea’s hopes of maintaining interest in a woeful season always looked slender after losing last week in the Bernabeu and Rodrygo put them out of their misery with two second-half goals to confirm Real’s superiority with a 4-0 aggregate win. The hosts had 19 goal attempts but once again they lacked any cutting edge as they lost a fourth match in succession in all competitions since the club’s record scorer Frank Lampard returned as interim manager.

Real, bidding for a record-extending 15th European crown, bided their time and Rodrygo opened the scoring in the 58th minute, before tapping in again in the 80th to spark a mass exodus of Chelsea fans who had seen enough.

DUBAI, APR 19 (PTI):

Swashbuckling Indian batter

Suryakumar Yadav continued his stay at the the top of the latest ICC Men’s T20I Batters Rankings released on Wednesday.

Suryakumar, who has endured a lean run of late, remained static on the ICC list with 906 rating points, and is over a 100 points ahead of the second placed Mohammad Rizwan (798) of Pakistan. Surykaumar, who is the lone Indian batter in the top 10, enjoyed a stellar year in the format in 2022. He continued his good run in the series against New

Among bowlers, left arm pacer Arshdeep Singh is the top-ranked Indian on 14th, while veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has dropped down a spot to 19. Hardik Pandya is second in the all-rounders’ list, behind leader Shakib Al Hasan. Ten wickets in three T20Is has helped Haris Rauf catapult Shadab Khan to become the top-ranked Pakistan bowler. Rauf picked up back-to-back four-wicket hauls against New Zealand in the ongoing T20I series, winning the Player of the Match in the first game. The Pakistan quick was just ahead of Shaheen Afridi last week and behind Shadab Khan, who was 12th in the T20I bowling rankings. Ten wickets spread across the first three T20Is has seen Rauf move up five places in the rankings to occupy the 11th spot.

Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma inspecting the ongoing renovation of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Pramod Bhagat and Sukant Kadam

AC Milan teammates celebrate after qualifying for semis. Real Madrid celebrate after scoring against Chelsea.

Carlos Alcaraz

Jelena Ostapenko

Suryakumar Yadav

Lucknow Super Giants batter Kyle Mayers in action during the IPL match against Rajasthan Royals. (PTI)