23 MAY 2022

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXII No. 166

DIMAPUR, MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022 Pages 12 ` 5.00

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Slash on fuel prices optical delusion and political gimmick: Opposition NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (AGENCIES): As the Centre and opposition parties call each other out on the recent cut in central excise duty on fuel, with the latter accusing the government of “duping” people by “jugglery of figures”, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday hit back with a clarification.

The Congress on Sunday accused BJP of resorting to “trickery” to create an “optical delusion’’ and said the people deserve genuine relief from the “record inflation”. In a tweet, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi compared petrol prices between May 1, 2020 and now, and said the “government must stop fooling citizens”. “Petrol Prices - May 1, 2020: Rs 69.5, Mar 1, 2022: Rs 95.4, May 1, 2022: Rs 105.4, May 22, 2022: Rs 96.7m Now, expect Petrol to see ‘Vikas’ in daily doses of Rs 0.8 and Rs 0.3 again,” Gandhi said.

“Govt must stop fooling citizens. People deserve genuine relief from record inflation,” he said on Twitter.

At a press conference at the AICC headquarter here, Congress spokesperson Gourav Vallabh accused the Modi government of being “high on political gimmick” and low on relief.

“The BJP gover n ment’s cluelessness about the economy and financial management has been out in the open for long now.

Instead of accepting it and seeking guidance from experts, the BJP only resorts to trickery to create an optical delusion,” Vallabh alleged.

Vallabh also cited that the excise per liter on diesel

NFHRCC appeals for early completion of ongoing works D I M A P U R , M AY 2 2 (NPN): Nagaland Foot Hill Road Construction Committee (NFHRCC) has welcomed the State government and R&B department’s desire to inaugurate the Doyang bridge at Governor’s Camp, Liphanyan, in Wokha district at the earliest, hopefully by early part of June 2022, and thereby provide connectivity to the people as aspired since the last nine years.

NFHRCC convener Supu Jamir, co-convener Hokiye Yepthomi, secretary W Lemba Chang and assistant general secretary Chenithung Humtsoe therefore appealed to the (Cont’d on p-8)

This is it!

“Earlier, we greased our way past the gates. Those guys look mean and no mood for business.”

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in April 2014 was Rs.3.56 and in May 2022 is Rs 15.8.

“The prices are back to the March 2022 numbers.

Were the common people pleased with the fuel prices in March 2022? The answer is No. Is the government still charging a hefty excise on fuel? The answer is Yes. True relief will only come when excise will be reduced to 2014 levels,” he stressed.

Petrol prices have increased by Rs. 10 per litre in the last 60 days and then comes a reduction of Rs.9.5 per litre, Vallabh said and asked, “Isn’t this trickery”.

Diesel prices have increased

by Rs.10 per litre in the last 60 days and then comes a reduction of Rs.7 per litre, he said, asking how is this welfare. Vallabh pointed out that LPG prices have increased by 142 per cent between May-2014 and May-2022.

“LPG prices have increased by more than Rs.400 in the last 18 months. Providing Rs 200 reduction doesn’t mean the welfare of the people but just sucking the blood in lower volumes,” he alleged. He also questioned the Finance Minister claim that the inflation has remained lower in the BJP’s tenure “Madam FM mentioned that her government is devoted to the welfare of the poor. The true face of your devotion to the welfare of the poor lies in the Oxfam report that claimed that, in 2021, the income of 84 per cent of households fell while the number of billionaires grew. Which welfare is she talking about?” he said.

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Full burden of fuel excise duty cut is borne by Centre, says FM

Nirmala Sitharaman

Union Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in a series of tweets, explained that the excise duty component that has been slashed not shareable by the state and the Centre bears the full cost. She also pointed to comparative data on developmental expenditure and subsidies to claim that the PM Modi-led government has spent much more in the last 8 years than what the Congress-led UPA did in the 10-years it was in power.

“Basic Excise Duty (BED), Special Additional Excise duty (SAED), Road & Infrastructure Cess (RIC) and Agriculture & Infrastructure Development Cess (AIDC) together constitute Excise Duty on petrol and diesel...Basic ED is sharable with states...SAED,RIC & AIDC are non-sharable.

The excise duty reduction of Rs.8/litre on petrol and Rs. 6/litre on diesel (effective from today) has entirely been made in Road & Infrastructure Cess (RIC),” she said in one of the tweets.

She said that even the last excise duty cut in November 2021, of Rs. 5/litre in petrol and Rs. 10/litre in (Cont’d on p-8) diesel, was entirely made in

RIC. “Basic ED which is sharable with states has not been touched. Therefore, the entire burden of these two duty cuts (made in Nov, 21 and yesterday) is borne by the Centre,” she added.

Referring to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, the Minister said the total developmental expenditure incurred by the Modi-led government during 2014-22 was Rs. 90.9 lakh crore.

“In contrast, only Rs. 49.2 lakh crore was spent on developmental expenditure during 2004-2014,” she said.

Another “useful fact” as she called it, was that total expenditure incurred by the Modi-led government includes Rs.24.85 lakh crore spent so far on food, fuel and fertiliser subsidies and Rs.26.3 lakh crore on capital creation. “Over the 10 years of UPA, only Rs.13.9 lakh crore was spent on subsidies,” she said.

She added that the duty reduction made on Saturday has an implication of Rs. 1,00,000 crore a year for Centre. The duty reduction made in November 2021 has an implication of Rs. 1,20,000 crore a year. “Total revenue implication to Centre, on these two duty cuts is thus Rs. 2,20,000 cr a year,” Sitharaman said. “I wish to exhort all state governments, especially the states where the reduction wasn’t done during the last round (November 2021), to also implement a similar cut and give relief to the common man,” she added.

PBKS beat Sunrisers by 5 wkts to finish 6th SPORTS, PAGE 12

BJP ended ‘culture of corruption’ in NE: Shah

OUTLINES THREE PRONGED PLAN TO TURN NE INTO ‘MOST-DEVELOPED’ AREA NAMSAI, MAY 22 (PTI/ AGENCIES): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday claimed that the BJP has ended the “culture of corruption” in the Northeast and funds meant for development work now get percolated to the last man, while middlemen siphoned off most of the amount during Congress rule.

He alleged that the region remained neglected during 50 years of Congress rule and asserted that it came on the fast track of development only after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in 2014.

Addressing a public rally in Namsai district, Shah lashed out at the Congress for questioning Modi on what he did for the region, saying that the grand old party won’t be able to see development if it keeps its eyes closed.

Amit Shah at the rally. (PTI)

“Rahul Gandhi, open your eyes and discard Italian glasses and wear Indian ones. Then only, you could see what development Modi has brought to the region, which your party failed to do in 50 years,” he said.

“Development funds for the region were siphoned off by middlemen during the Congress rule.

But with the NDA under the leadership of PM Modi

coming to power in 2014, the culture of corruption has ended and every single penny is being utilised with utter transparency. The prime minister has ensured that development funds get percolated down to the last man,” Shah said.

He claimed that the Nor theast was earlier known for militancy due to faulty policies of the previous government but now peace prevails as the Centre has signed peace deals with most of the insurgent outfits.

“As many as 9,600 militants in the region have surrendered and joined the mainstream in the last eight years. Youths of the Northeast are no longer interested in gun culture and are now launching start-ups. The Centre is committed to bringing peace and development to the region,” Shah said.

Centre to spend additional Rs. 2 lakh cr to check inflation: report NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (AGENCIES): Government is considering spending an additional Rs. 2 lakh crores ($26 billion) in the current fiscal to cushion consumers from rising prices and fight multi-year high inflation, two government officials told Reuters.

The new measures will be double the Rs. 1 lakh crore hit government revenues could take from tax cuts on petrol and diesel the finance minister announced on Saturday, both the officials said. India’s retail inflation rose to an eight-

year high in April, while wholesale inflation rose to at least a 17-year high, posing a major headache for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government ahead of elections to several state assemblies this year.

“We are fully focussed on bringing down inflation.

The impact of Ukraine crisis was worse than anyone’s imagination,” one official, who did not want to be named, said.

The government estimates another Rs. 50,000 crore additional funds will be needed to subsidise fer-

tilisers, from the current estimate of Rs. 2.15 lakh crore, the two officials said.

The government could also deliver another round of tax cuts on petrol and diesel if crude oil continues to rise that could mean an added hit of Rs. 1 lakh crore - Rs1.5 lakh crore in 2022-23 started on April 1, the second official said.

Both the officials did not want to be named as they are not authorised to disclose the details. The Government did not immediately comment outside office hours. (Cont’d on p-8)

Three-pronged plan

Shah said the MHA has prepared a three-pronged plan for creating a disputefree, insurgency and weapon-free developed North East India.

“Our first aim is to not only save the dialects, languages, traditional dance, music and food of the Northeast, but also enrich them and make them the pride of the nation,” he said.

The second aim is to end all disputes, providing a platform to the youth of the region through which they can compete with the youth of the world and it is our responsibility to create such a dispute-free, peaceful, extremist-free, weapon-free Northeast.“The third goal is to take all the eight states of the region to the top position in the list of the most developed states of the country,” he said.

RPP lauds Gov on removal of multiple check gates D I M A P U R , M AY 2 2 (NPN): Rising People’s Party (RPP) has expressed appreciation of the “wise decision” by Nagaland governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi for removal of what it described as “unnecessary and multiple check gates in the State”.

In a press note RPP, said the move has brought inexpressible relief to the people of Nagaland, especially the business community which has been facing untold miseries arising out of illegal collections/taxation.

(Cont’d on p-8)

Assam flood: Death toll climbs to 25; 7.2 lakh hit Ao Senden disapproves ‘war of words’ between SC Jamir and NSCN(I-M)

ter Management Authority (ASDMA), four persons drowned in Kampur revenue circle of Nagaon district.

One person at Doboka in Hojai district and a child at Silchar in Cachar district, too, died due to the flood, it said. The death toll due to the flood and landslides this year has now gone up to 25 across Assam.

ASDMA said more than 7,19,540 people have been impacted in several districts -- Barpeta, Biswanath, Cachar, Darrang, Goalpara, Golaghat, Hailakandi, Indian Air Force personnel evacuate people from the flood-affected areas after heavy rain in Assam. (PTI) Jorhat, Kamrup, Karbi Anglong West, Karimganj, GUWAHATI, MAY 22 six more persons, including impact of the deluge across Lakhimpur, Majuli, Morigaon, Nagaon, Sonitpur and (PTI/IANS): The flood two children, losing their 22 districts. situation in Assam dete- lives and nearly 7.2 lakh According to the report Udalguri. riorated on Sunday with people coming under the of the Assam State Disas(Cont’d on p-8)

D I M A P U R , M AY 2 2 (NPN): Ao Senden has drawn its attention to what it described as “re-emergence of the war of words” between NSCN(I-M) and veteran Naga politician and former governor Dr. S.C. Jamir which was widely circulated in the media in recent days as it was not healthy but would only do more harm than good to the Nagas.

Ao Senden president Chubawati Longchar and general secretary Imtipokyim, reiterated that it would be “more prudent on the part of all concerned to think wisely, before going to the media with allegations and

counter-allegations” as this would only weaken the Naga case before the world and at the same time, “create more division and discord among the Nagas.”

Says ‘competencies’ under FA negotiated with GoI be made public The Senden maintained it was well aware of the current Naga political predicament over which there has been “too much animosity, distrust and cynicism weighing down the Naga society today.” Therefore, Senden made it clear that “blame

game is not going to win us anything but instead weaken the Naga cause.”

Further, the Senden reiterated its earlier stand that “competencies that are being negotiated with the government of India on the basis of the Framework Agreement, be made public without further delay”.

It said “Naga people are fatigued by the conflict and are growing more and more impatient with each passing day” and so keeping the “competencies shrouded in secrecy is perhaps the reason why Naga people are losing faith on the ongoing negotiations.”

NVCO appeals to ensure implementation on removal of check gates New rates after fuel excise duty cut D I M A P U R , M AY 2 2 (NPN): While expressing appreciation to the Nagaland Governor Jagdish Mukhi for his initiative in asking the state government to close down multiple check gates set up by government departments including municipal and town councils and for removal of temporary standing structure, Nagaland Voluntary Consumer Organisation (NVCO) has urged upon public and civil societies to support the government order issued recently in this regard to district administrations.

NVCO however reminded that an earlier government order issued on June 22, 2009 prohibiting collection of taxes by any organisation/persons including departments such as police, excise, forest and taxes at check post and highways failed. Though some check gates were dismantled, it said the collection business restarted by police and organisations.

In particular NVCO alleged that several policemen especially the lower ranks lobbied for posting at check gates as it was lucrative.

NVCO also said Ma-

nipur-bound truck drivers regularly pay through cash-counters along the national highway besides several such counters across the heart of Dimapur City including train station to associations, unions etc.

It also said that the H i g h C o u r t ( Ko h i m a Bench), through an order dated June 3, 2014 disallowed associations, unions etc from collecting money on highway but the order was never complied with.

According to NVCO, such illegal collections continue despite such orders and which have been the main

factor for price shooting up in the market. It said since the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act subsumes all other taxes, there cannot be any other tax imposed on any item. In this regard, NVCO demanded to know from the Dimapur district administration as to why inter-state check gates at New Field, Dellai and Khatkhati were being allowed including counters of DMC and Police when other states have already removed such check gates in lieu of GST regime coming into effect?

It went on to point out that illegal taxation has

been going on under different nomenclature imposed on the business community, government employees, development projects by various groups including abnormal commissions in the name of party fund etc.

NVCO therefore appealed to the public including government and CSOs “not to compromise” with the recent state government order for dismantling all unauthorised check gates for collection of money in any form so as to “being an end to the menace of illegal taxation/cash collection in the state of Nagaland.”

DIMAPUR, MAY 22 (NPN): Petrol Diesel District price per price per Petrol and diesel price was on litre in ` litre in ` Sunday slashed by Rs. 8.69 Kiphire 101.87 89.96 a litre and Rs. 7.05 per litre 101.85 89.80 respectively. (See table for ap- Tuensang Shamator 101.85 89.80 proximate fuel price) Noklak 101.54 89.66 Rio welcomes decision: 101.07 89.08 While Nagaland government Phek Zunheboto 101.07 89.04 was yet to announce any cut 88.89 in fuel prices, chief minister Mokokchung 100.84 100.76 88.94 Neiphiu Rio on Sunday wel- Longleng Mon 100.45 88.63 comed Centre’s decision to 99.39 87.54 reduce Central excise duty on Kohima Tseminyü 98.94 87.26 petrol and diesel.

98.65 86.99 In a tweet, Rio thanked Peren Dimapur 98.28 86.65 Prime Minister Narendra Modi Chümoukedima 98.28 86.65 and Finance Minister Nirmala Nuiland 98.28 86.65 Sitharaman for the “significant step which will provide relief a record Rs. 8 per litre cut in to our citizens.” The govern- excise duty on petrol and Rs. ment on Saturday announced 6 per litre reduction on diesel.

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2

STATE

GBs, TVC appeal for better road

GBs and members of TVC inspect road.

In a press release, TVC chairman, Vitoho Y Zhimo and secretary, KahutoAchumi said the GBs and village council have taken a “serious concern” over the deplorable condition of the 2.5 km (approximate) road, which is the main economic lifeline link road to Doyapur and Dhansiripar Sub-division citizens.

TVC said the Thilixu village GBs and council undertook a survey on May 21 and found the road in a deplorable and unmotorable condition. Therefore, the GBs and the council have asked the state government and concerned department to repair the road in priority basis at the earliest.

Civic action programmes by Assam Rifles

DIMAPUR: Assam Rifles (AR) battalions under the aegis of Headquarters of Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North) carried out civic action programmes across Nagaland.

Kohima Bn: Kohima Battalion of Assam Rifles conducted drawing and painting competition for the students of Little Flower Higher Secondary School on

CEAN elects new team DIMAPUR: Civil Engineer’s Association of Nagaland (CEAN) held its 32nd general meeting on May 21 at Conference Hall, DUDA Guest House wherein CTAN convenor, Er. Meshenlo Kath exhorted the gathering. CEAN also elected new team with Er. Choice Peilie as president and Er. DoviliSwu as general secretary. CEAN has also asked all the civil engineering graduates of Nagaland to register with the association within two months. For registration, one has been asked to contact finance secretary, Er. Vekrolu(8794256963 or registration incharge Er. Sipongchila Chang (6033862706)/ E r. N e i c h u t u o n u o Yhome(8731971767)/ E r. A L u m t s a l a S a n g tam(8118926801)/Er. Kaisha Konyak (9862402338).

KBC ‘revival crusade’

DIMAPUR: The fourth phase of the “revival crusade” (inter-denominational) held under the initiative of Koinonia Baptist Church (KBC) in commemoration of the KBC 25 years of jubilee was held on May 19-20 at AG Colony, Model HSS and New Ministers Hill near Panchayat Hall respectively.

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RPP to undertake districts tour: Rising People’s Party (RPP) has informed that the party would be undertaking districts tour starting with Dimapur/ Chumoukedima/Niuland districts. Through the tour, RPP said it aims to disseminate the party’s vision, core party principles and ideologies to the citizens of Nagaland.

UA to conduct seminar: Ura Academy (UA) will be organising its 52nd seminar and panel discussion on May 26-27 at Ura Academy Hall, Kohima. The organiser has extended invitation including church leaders, Sunday school teachers, Church editorial boards, secretaries, school teachers, students and community leaders, elders and well-wishers to attend the programme.

MITE releases journal: Modern Institute of Teacher Education (MITE) Kohima’s 3rd volume journal of education was released on May 21 at its Conference Hall by MITE managing director, Pelee Hekha.

Sangtam Naga folktale book released: Sangtam Naga folktale book titled, “Sangtam Jümü Yukheh” authored by Tsalong Sangtam, (retd) language officer was released on May 21 at Sangtamtilla by Sangtam Literature Board (SLB).

Handwritten Bible released: A handwritten Bible by Anim Newme was released on May 20 by founder and academic dean of Mission International Graduate School of Missions, Rev. Dr. Paulah Kapfo. In a release, Newme stated that he started the “journey” on February 6, 2020 and wrote the last verse of the Bible on May 15, 2022.

Seized IMFL destroyed in Wokha DIMAPUR: A huge quantity of assorted Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) seized on different occasions was destroyed on May 21 by destruction committee Wokha.

According to DIPR report, a total of 238 cases and 1751 bottles of assorted IMFL was destroyed in the presence of representatives from Wokha district administration, APP, prosecuting inspector and staff, Lotha Eloe Hoho, DBs and Wokha police.

Destruction committee destroying the seized IMFL.

1st Death annIversary

of our BeloveD lt. yangulIe sanchu

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF OUR BELOVED

LT. TSAMINGO JEMU

May 18. In continuation of Yoga Day celebrations, AR also educated the students on positive effects of yoga.

Jalukie Bn: Jalukie Battalion conducted tree plantation drive on May 19 at Tening Village, Peren district. In a separate event, Jalukie battalion also organised online financial safety awareness lecture on May 18 at Punglwa Village, Peren district.

(23/05/2021) He never looked for praises He was never one to boast He just went on quietly working For the ones he loved the most

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF

K. HOKUGHA ACHUMI AKUKAU

His dreams were seldom spoken His wants were very few And most of the time his worries Went unspoken too

SHENA OLD VILLAGE

Jesus said, “I assure you that today you will be in paradise.”

LUKE 23:43

He was there…. A firm foundation Through all our storms of life A sturdy hand to hold on to In times of stress and strife

23RD MAY 2021 A year has passed since you left us, but we hold you close within our hearts forever and always.

We miss you and love you endlessly dp-2309/22

Loving Wife, Son and Daughter.

A true friend we could turn to When times were good or bad One of our greatest blessings The man that we called Dad.

1st Death anniversary Late P.K along, ex-MLa (tizit) k-1020/22

Loving Wife, Children, Grand Children, and In-laws

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

14.01.1968 - 23.05.2021 It’s been a year since you left us on this day. In life, we loved you dearly, in death we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place, no one else will ever fill. dp-2302/22

Loving wife, children and family.

21.08.1951 – 23.05.2021

1st Death anniversary

It’s been a year since you left us, but your memories and goodness are still fresh in our hearts. Missing you fondly.

The memory of the righteous is a blessing (Proverbs 10:7)

k-1014/22

Loving Wife, Children, Grand Children, Relatives & In-Laws

LATE MRS. ZHEKHELI ACHUMI

Awareness on prevention of child marriages

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

A. K. LUNGALANG

Died on: 23rd MAY, 2021

Lt. Shri. Hocto Aye

We can't tough you anymore, can't hear you, can't see you but we can feel you all the time because you are alive in our hearts always. We miss you so dearly Daddy.

Loving Wife, Children, Sons-in-law and Grand Children

dp-2358/22

DIMAPUR: An awareness programme on prevention of child marriages was organised by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Mangkolemba office in collaboration with Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) Mangkolemba on May 18 at Customary Court Mangkolemba.

According to DIPR report, at the programme, short speeches were delivered by ADC Mangkolemba Dharam Raj, SDPO Mangkolemba R. Philip Yanthan, CDPO Mangkolemba Aonukshi and ASHA coordinator Talirenla.

Representatives from different schools and wards and ASHA workers attended the brief function. The programme was chaired by LDA-cum-C/A, Imtiwapang and the vote of thanks was delivered by EAC Alongkima, Bodi Kapfo.

NEWS IN BRIEF

An efficient mother, a thoughtful in-law and the most loving grandmother. We might not be able to completely emulate your presence in our lifetime.

But as surely as our good Lord’s grace is upon us, we will strive every day to carry on the legacy you’ve left behind.

Forever in our thoughts, your memory is eternal.

And, we miss you even more today.

Your loving, Children, In-laws, Grandchildren and Great-grandchildren.

dp-2313/22

DIMAPUR: Expressing anguish over deplorable road, Thilixu Village GBs and Thilixu Village Council (TVC) have asked the state government and concerned department to repair the road from Assam Rifle Army Camp junction Thilixu block-2 and block-3 leading to Nagaland Zoological Park at the earliest.

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

5th June 1930 – 13th May 2022 The Family of Late A. K. Lungalang (Member of Collective Leadership, NSCN / GPRN) is deeply indebted to all Well Wishers and Family Friends for the support rendered in different ways during his treatment especially Dr. Khrutsozo Kikhi & Team (CIHSR), Dr. Mecietuonuo Rutsa, Dr. Nepuni Athikho, Nurses and Staff of Eden Medical Centre, Dimapur, till he breathed his last on 13th May 2022.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to the undermentioned who extended prayer, financial and material support during his medical treatment till his funeral on 15th May 2022 at Heningkunglwa:1. His Excellency, the Yaruiwo, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. Q. Tuccu 2. Honourable Ato Kilonser, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. Th. Muivah 3. Honourable Chief Minister, Nagaland, Mr. Neiphiu Rio 4. Honourable Chairman, UDA, Mr. T. R. Zeliang 5. Advisor, Water Resources, Mr. Namri Nchang 6. Members, Collective Leadership, NSCN/GPRN 7. Convenor, Steering Committee, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. K. K. Angami 8. Chairman, NCSRB, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. Samson Jajo 9. Kilonser, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. Nganmi 10. Kilonser, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. O. Mozamo Ngullie 11. Kilonser, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. Theputhie 12. Member, Steering Committee. NSCN/GPRN, Mr. Imtiramok 13. Secretary, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. George Gonmei 14. CAO, Asalu ZLR Region, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. Hiabe Hau 15. CAO, Zeilad, ZLR Region, NSCN/GPRN, Mr. D. G. Robert 16. Zeme Baptist Church, Dimapur 17. Heningkunglwa Village Council 18. Kashiram Village Council 19. Naga Hoho, Naga Students‘ Federation, Tenyimi National Workers’ Forum (NSCN/GPRN), Zeliangrong Baudi (Assam, Manipur, Nagaland), Zeliangrong Baudi (N), Zeme Baptist Church Council, Nagaland Zeliang People’s Organisation, Kuki Inpi (N), Zeme Council (N), Nagaland Wrestling Association, Zeliang Officers’ Association (N), Zeliangrong Students’ Union (Assam, Manipur, Nagaland), Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation (N) and Benreului Baudi (N).

We seek your forgiveness for not mentioning every individual / organisation, who had generously comforted us in times of need through various gestures, but we pray that our Loving Heavenly Father bless you all abundantly for the noble deeds extended to our Family.

Loving Wife, Children, In-Laws & Grand Children dp-2356/22

K Y M C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Can the govt order on ban on all check gates be implemented in letter and in spirit?

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

A B C

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Surveillance carried out Liangmai Theological Fellowship holds annual session to contain blast disease

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A

B

C

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

40% 46% 14%

NEXT POLL

Q: Will prices of items

come down after dismantling of check gates in Dimapur?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST MAY 23

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala A strong morning thunderstorm 33 26 Aizawl

Partly sunny

Guwahati A t-storm around in the a.m.

29 19 32 24

Partly sunny

29 19

Itanagar Partly sunny

29 21

Imphal Shillong

Some sun with a thunderstorm 24 16

Kohima

Clouds and sun with a t-storm

25 17

Dimapur A morning t-storm in the area

30 21

An a.m t-storm; partly sunny

27 17

Mkg

Tuensang Partly sunny

20 14

A t-storm around in the a.m

25 19

Zunheboto A morning t-storm in spots

23 15

Wokha

The team with farmers at Naginimora.

DIMAPUR: In view of the occurrence of blast disease in jhum areas in 2021, where about 60% of the total area under jhum was devastated by blast disease, office of Sub Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) Naginimora, Mon conducted surveillance and monitoring of pest and diseases on May 16-20 at the sub-division focussing on early detection and timely management of pest and disease.

A press release by SDAO Naginimora stated that the surveillance and

monitoring was conducted with special emphasis on blast disease of rice in jhum paddy and Fall Army Worm (FAW) in maize.

During the survey, the department said it found that there was marked improvement in jhum paddy crop in 2022 as compared to 2021. However, blast disease was detected in about four hectares at Chingdang, Tanhai and Shiyong village and management measures were initiated.

It further informed that FAW was also detected in about 13 hectares in

Youth urged to work hard and maintain consistency

Hekani Jakhalu being welcomed at the programme.

DIMAPUR: Founder of YouthNet, Hekani Jakhalu has reminded the youth that the only way ahead for them was hard work and being determined to reach their dreams and vision.

A press release by YouthNet media cell informed that Jakhalu said this while speaking as special guest at the special talent show for the youth commemorating the 32nd

anniversary of Padumpukhuri Village Council (PVC) on May 21 at Toluvi Village, Dimapur.

Stating that youth of the state are inherently talented but lack consistency, Jakhalu asked them to overcome it as meritocracy was the only way ahead in the future and added that youth needed to be prepared to face the tough competitive world ahead.

Jakhalu also lauded PVC and village elders for their vision in sending out a strong message of “unity” which she said was the need of the hour.

Committing to work towards the youth of PadamPukhuri and East Dimapur in general, she announced Rs 10 lakh towards construction of “Youth Resource Centre” in PVC office area.

maize with mild to moderate degree of infestation and management was initiated for the same.

Meanwhile, SDAO Naginimora, Lawrence informed that the department will continue to monitor the situation closely and urged the farmers to report any incidence of agricultural pest and diseases promptly for timely intervention.

The release informed that the SDAO office also held interactive sessions with villagers for community mobilization in managing the disease.

Youths take part in cultural activity at the mela.

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appreciated ANMA Integrated Development Association (AIDA) for initiating and undertaking many noble services in the communities and requested to continue to extend its services.

He also stressed on the opportunities and avenues that Nagas were losing due to lack of skills and therefore encouraged the people to avail facilities that were

provide by the organizations. Chief Manager Financial Inclusion SBI RBO Dimapur, Kshetrimayum Rameshwar Singh, who was guest of honor, shared about the milestone of SBI Foundation since its inception in August 2017.

Having seen the impact of the initiatives of AIDA - SBI Gram Seva programmes towards socio cultural development, he

DIMAPUR: Two-day, 30th annual session of Liangmai Theological Fellowship (LTF) under Liangmai Baptist Association Nagaland was conducted under the banner “Stand firm on the words” at Liangmai Baptist Association Mission Centre, Tening on May 21-22.

According to LTF media cell, the session was organised under the presidentship of LBCA youth secretary, Wichampou.

The members divided into different group and visited few local churches and took fellowship together on Sunday devotional service as part of their ministry. At the session, LTF resolved to emphasize the need to carry on theological reflection, capacitate lay leaders

LTF delegates at the LBA Mission Center. through leadership training wards LTF fund. for the period of 2022 to in collaboration with LBA LTF has also elected a 2024, with Khiupomme as and to organise works to- new team of office bearers the president.

NPF Dimapur -II A/C alleges misuse of party office

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAY 22 (NPN): Alleging misused of NPF office nomenclature by sitting NDPP MLA, Maotoshi Longkumer at the meeting on May 21, the NPF Dimapur-II A/C unit has demanded clarification from the MLA. Addressing media person at NPF party office, Dimapur on Sunday, NPF Dimapur-II A/C, president, Bendang Aier said using NPF office nomenclature after merging to NDPP was “illegal”.

He claimed that the party had

sent a letter to the MLA not to use the NPF office nomenclature at the NDPP meeting, however their request was rejected.

NPF Dimapur division, president T Lotha said that they were not concern about Moatoshi Longkumer for merging to NDPP party but questioned the misused of NPF office nomenclature.

Central NPF party, vice president P Awomi said that NPF party has history and the party does not enroll any individual randomly but only after proper scrutiny. He mentioned that

such act on the misuse of the banner was “answerable” and therefore demanded clarification.

NPF youth Dimapur division, president, Temsuyanger Jamir termed the event as a “cheap politics”. The party therefore demanded clarification and suggested legal actions against them.

Meanwhile, NDPP party clarified that the meeting was attended by around 202 members- that included public, Self Help Groups and few officials, who were no longer affiliated to NPF party.

Stakeholders trained to implement TOFEI in Phek DIMAPUR: A training of stakeholders for implementation of Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (TOFEI) was organised by District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC), National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) Phek on May 18 at District Hospital Phek (DHP).

A press release by National Health Mission (NHM) Phek stated that the main objectives of the training was to create awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and tobacco control laws and facilitate effective implementation of TOFEI by all the schools within the district.

The release stated that resource persons quoted the global youth tobacco survey which stated that 43% of students in Nagaland between 13-15 years of age use tobacco products, which is one of the highest in the country.

In a presentation on implementation of TOFEI, resource person, additional director state nodal officer NTCP, Directorate of Health and Fam-

AIDA-SBI Gram Seva organizes ‘cultural mela’

DIMAPUR: Coinciding with the “World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development”, the AIDA-SBI Gram Seva organized “cultural mela” by bringing together the five adopted villages at Bade Village on Saturday.

The mela was inaugurated by SDO Chumoukedima, Temsuchuba Jamir as chief guest. Speaking on the occasion,Temsuchuba

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proposed to make the cultural mela an annual event to make it more fruitful.

He also stressed on Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Literacy programmes.

Earlier, the programme began with an invocation

by Rev. Fr.Nebu Mathew SDB, Rector, Don Bosco, Dimapur while Rev. Fr. Roy George, SDB, Executive Director of AIDA welcomed the chief guest, guest of honour and other dignitaries to the cultural celebration.

Some special features of the Cultural Mela were: Quiz competition, talent show, tug of war, cultural folk song & dance, cock fight, arm wrestling, pork eating and banana eating competition. The programme was attended by villagers from five adopted villages-Urra, Bade, Diezephe, Tsithrongse and Kriezephe.

Phira M, Inspector of Excise,YanbemoYanthan, Pa s t o r, L o t h a B a p t i s t Church, LimhaOdyuo, chairman MERIBA Society and Dr. Anna LunbilaBibiana HRD Manager, AIDA were the jury of the event.

Officials and participants of the training in Phek. ily Welfare (DoH&FW), Dr.Chiekroshuyi Tetseo briefed the school authorities on displaying mandatory signage which was to be put up by the schools.

Emphasising on the burden of tobacco epidemic which is the biggest cause of preventable deaths and diseases, Dr.Tetseo said tobacco kills nearly 13 lakh people in India every year.

He said tobacco was also a major cause of economic hardship especially among

the low-income groups.

Speaking on the present tobacco scenario, Dr. Tetseo said Nagaland was one of the highest users of pan masala, tobacco and the highest average monthly user of cigarettes.

Pointing out that educational institutions were the best platform to create awareness about the danger of tobacco use, he called upon the teachers to make all the schools’ tobacco free adding that protecting the

children from tobacco use was the only way to bring down the tobacco prevalence in the society.

Re s o u r c e p e r s o n , DTCC consultant NTCP, Linoka KAwomi gave a presentation on the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (COTPA) Act 2003, its objectives, enforcement mechanism etc., She also highlighted the mandate of Section 6 (b) and its penalties, section 77 of Juvenile Justice Act

and its penalties.

Earlier, chairperson of the training, DNO, NTCP Phek, Dr.Nichukholie Vupru highlighted the different awareness programs and activities under NTCP which were carried out in the district.

He also shared about the counselling facility at Tobacco Control Cell Phek and the availability of nicotine replacement therapy for those desiring to quit tobacco.

ANSTA Peren demands reversal of teachers’ rationalisation DIMAPUR: All Nagaland School Teachers’ Association (ANSTA) Peren unit while expressing dissatisfaction over the recent government order of rationalisation and retention of teachers in Peren district has asked the concerned authority to revoke the same.

In a press release, ANSTA Peren unit president, Kaibakam Pamai and general secretary, Haidun Zeliang alleged that

the district SDEOs are posted for “few months and gets retirement and comes hardly to the office”.

Stating that there was no ground inspection for rationalisation and retention, the unit asked why additional teacher was posted in some villages where school was closed or never ran after establishment.

ANSTA Peren unit also questioned the posting

of “unqualified” primary teachers in Government High School (GHS) and Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) especially when these schools should be staffed with qualified and adequate number of teachers.

The unit also said some graduate teachers from Government Middle School (GMS) were transferred to GHS, four primary teachers were transferred from GHSS

with no replacement and in some villages which were downgraded to GPS, additional post was posted in rationalisation.

In view of the “misplacement in rationalisation or in retention”, ANSTA Peren unit has asked the concerned higher authority to revoke the order and after “having done the ground reality” to take up, rationalisation and retention by summer break.

Medical officer CHC Pungro, Dr.Weri Mero screening students at an oral health camp conducted at LFS School, Mt. Horeb School, GHS and GPS Pungro under Pungro, Kiphire district, from May 13-19. Altogether, 2147 students were screened at the camp.

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Arunachal jewel in India’s crown: Shah

NAMSAI (ARUNACHAL P R A D E S H ) , M AY 2 2 (PTI): Terming Arunachal Pradesh as a “jewel in India’s crown”, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday asserted that people of the northeastern state bordering China are filled with patriotism and greet each other with ‘Jai Hind’ instead of the usual ‘Namaste’.

Shah, while addressing a rally after signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Arunachal Pradesh government and the National Defence University (NDU) for the establishment of a campus at Pasighat in East Siang district, said the institution will give the youths of the state the opportunity to serve the country.

“Whenever we come to Arunachal Pradesh, we return with energy and patriotism. There is probably no other place in the country other than Arunachal Pradesh where people greet each other with ‘Jai Hind’ instead of the usual ‘Namaste’,” Shah said.

He said that after Gujarat, the second campus of the NDU will be in Arunachal Pradesh.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has established two famous universities in the country – the National Defence University and the

Amit Shah with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu during his visit to Golden Pagoda in Namsai. (PTI) National Forensic Science University.

“The defence university will create trained manpower for the army and paramilitary forces.

The youths of Arunachal Pradesh are not only patriotic but also physically fit.

The institution will provide them the opportunity to serve the nation,” the Union home minister said.

He said projects worth Rs 1,180 crore are either completed or will be inaugurated soon.

“A total of 33,466 families and 800 self-help groups in the state were benefited through various start-ups worth Rs 394 crore, while 22 projects worth Rs 436 crore have been completed and inaugurated during the day and another 25 projects

worth Rs 350 crore would be launched soon,” he said.

Shah inaugurated and laid the foundation for 40 projects worth around Rs 1,000 crore during the day.

He said the 2,000 MW Lower Subansiri hydroelectric power project will be operational by 2023, and it will benefit the state immensely. Work on the 2,880 MW Dibang multipurpose project, the biggest in the world, will start soon while the 600 MW Kameng project is already functioning.

Shah said that when Chief Minister Pema Khandu assumed charge, the state’s annual budget was only Rs 12,500 crore, but it has now increased to Rs 26,000 crore. Similarly, the state’s GDP has also tripled to Rs 30,000 crore from Rs

10,000 crore.

“Around 3,000 villages have 4G connectivity while plans are afoot to expand it to 1,680 more villages,” he said.

Under the border village illumination programme, work to provide street lighting to 700 villages is underway while construction of foot tracks in border areas is also on, he said.

“When the country celebrates 100 years of Independence, the states in Northeast will be at par in terms of development with those in other parts of the country,” he said.

“For PM Modi, development should begin with Arunachal Pradesh. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he had instructed that the

vaccines should first be provided to Arunachal Pradesh and now the state is free from the infection,” the Union home minister said.

Shah, who laid the foundation of a 51-feetbronze statue of sage Parshuram at Parshuram Kund in Lohit district on Saturday evening, said that the site has an immense potential to attract tourists.

“Within five years, Parshuram Kund will become a major tourist hub of the country with a railway line connecting it. A survey is underway for the project,” he said.

Shah said that the NDA gover nment had started development initiatives in the state and now it has good road, railway, air and digital connectivity and soon, Itanagar will get a greenfield airport.

He said that projects worth Rs 950 crore under the Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR), Rs 835-crore worth projects under North East Council (NEC) and Rs 825-worth initiatives under DoNER Ministry are operational in the state.

After the programme, he chaired a closed-door security review meeting with army and paramilitary forces and attended a banquet with the officers before leaving for Delhi.

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

Under-construction M’laya assembly dome collapses

Correspondent

SHILLONG, MAY 22: A sizeable portion of the under-construction new assembly building of Meghalaya at Mawdiangdiang in the New Shillong Township collapsed in the wee hours of Sunday apparently due to faulty design even as no human casualty was reported as there was no worker at the site during the incident, police said.

According to officials, the 70 tonne dome of the assembly building being constructed at a cost of Rs 127 crore by the Uttar Pradesh Rajkiya Nirman Nigam Limited, a public sector undertaking of the Uttar Pradesh government, collapsed at around 12.30 pm today. Executive Engineer of PWD (Buildings), Ransom Sutnga, who has been overseeing the construction, said, “The weight of the steel dome was perhaps too much for the columns and the beams to bear. This resulted in the entire structure coming down”.

He said the debris will be cleared within two weeks adding that a new design for a lighter structure for the dome would now be prepared within eight or nine months from now.

The design had been

The incident took place at around 12-30 AM when nobody was working at the construction site. vetted by the prestigious IIT Roorkee, the engineer informed. Work on the new building on 80 acres of land was started in June 2019 and was to be completed

by August 2022 and was scheduled to be inaugurated in September this year.

Meanwhile, the opposition All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has castigated the National People’s Party (NPP)-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government saying that the collapse of the under-construction assembly dome was a pointer to the “heights of corruption” in the state.

“An administration that is hollow at its core cannot be trusted with the good governance of Meghalaya. The collapse of the new Assembly Building

is a metaphoric reminder of the corruption and ineptitude in the state. The @ SangmaConrad-led MDA Government must take accountability,” the party said.

In January 2001, the 125 years old heritage and iconic Gothic structure of the Meghalaya assembly in the heart of the city at Police Bazar was gutted in a devastating fire, ever since which the legislators have been sitting for assembly session in temporary venues including the U Soso Tham Auditorium, State Central Library and currently in the sprawling Art and Culture Auditorium at Rilbong locality in the city, which is also famous for the Brooke-side Bungalow, where Rabindranath Tagore had stayed and is a popular tourist destination

Kidnaped truck drivers rescued in Mnp 5 arrested; separate inquiry into ‘custodial death’: Assam DGP

Residents of Khurai area blocking road demanding safe release of two drivers kidnapped by militants.

Correspondent IMPHAL, MAY 22: Suspected militants released two truck drivers they had kidnapped allegedly for ransom following a intensive rescue operation by Manipur police on Sunday.

The kidnapping of the drivers triggered a protest in the Imphal East district where the drivers hailed from. Protesters blocked main roads at Khurai Lamlong Bazar in protest against the kidnapping.

Suspected cadres of Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) kidnapped the drivers of a Jiri-bound truck leaving Imphal along Old Cachar Road on May 18 last. Old Cachar Road is currently used as an alternative route of the NH-37 after a bridge on the highway collapsed on May 12 last.

The two truck drivers - Thangjam Pal (42) of Khurai Puthiba Leikai and Maibam Mani (45) of Khurai Chingangbam Leikai, were reportedly whisked away after the truck they were driving was stopped at Khoupum Bazar in Noney district. They were allegedly kidnapped for ransom.

After kidnapping the drivers, the suspects demanded money for their safe release from the fertilizer agent who engaged the truck for shipping of the fertilizer, the family of the drivers alleged.

A police source said they have rescued the two drivers unharmed around 3 pm on Sunday and will be handed over to their respective families after completing formalities.

They said that a strong police force today launched

an operation to rescue the drivers at some place where they (drivers) were held hostage.

The operation launched early Sunday morning concluded when they intercepted the drivers while the operation was in progress.

The abductors might have left behind the drivers on seeing the police force approaching, the police said.

Meanwhile, denouncing the kidnapping of truck drivers for ransom, locals of Khurai area of Imphal East district today imposed a road blockade, affecting normal vehicular movement on all roads passing through Khurai Lamlong Bazar area.

The locals were pressing the authorities of the state government to take up necessary steps for the safe release of the drivers.

The blockade also hit normal vehicular movement along Imphal-Ukhrul Road, Tinsid Road and Imphal-Saikul road that pass through Lamlong Bazar area.

Khurai Social Youth Club (KSYC) imposed the blockade demanding safe and unconditional release of the drivers and to take up necessary action to rescue the drivers

NAG AO N ( A S S A M ) , MAY 22 (PTI): Five miscreants were on Sunday arrested for the arson at Batadrava Police Station in Assam’s Nagaon district, and a special Investigation Team (SIT) will soon be constituted to inquire into the incident, a top police officer said on Sunday.

A separate probe has also been ordered into the alleged custodial death of a local resident, which triggered the attack on the police station, he said.

District administration on Sunday launched an eviction drive against encroachers in Salnabori village, residents of which purportedly attacked and set on fire the police station the day before, following the alleged custodial death of a local, Safikul Islam, who was picked up the night earlier.

Director General of Police (DGP) Bhaskarjyoti Mahanta, who visited Batardava on Sunday, said, “A SIT, headed by an additional superintendent of police, will be formed to look into the arson incident.

Five miscreants have already been apprehended and investigation was underway to identify and nab the others.”

To a question on possible involvement of jihadis behind the attack, Mahanta said, “I will not call them jihadis. But perhaps the mob was organised by people who were trained by outfits engaged in anti-India activities.”

The DGP said police have information that fundamentalist outfit Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT) was trying to set base in Nagaon and adjoining areas.

He said, “ABT modules were busted recently in Assam, Tripura and Bhopal.

We are aware that some of them are functioning in these areas. They have entered mosques and madrassas, but they don’t have the support of common people.

“They are trying to create sleeper cells so that foreign mujahideens can be brought here,” he added.

Mahanta said that the incident seemed “systematic and planned”.

“In this particular incident, we have seen an element of preparedness.

People were provoked,” he claimed.

The DGP also said that a drug peddler and a dacoit have been identified in the mob that had set ablaze the police station, with the

The police station that was set on fire after custodial death of a local. police also trying to find out if the attack was aimed at burning down evidence and case diaries.

He stated that an additional SP of neighbouring district of Karbi Anglong, Prakash Sonowal, has been entrusted with the task of conducting an independent inquiry into the allegation of custodial death.

“I have seen a photo which clearly indicates that Islam was drunk or high on drugs when he was brought in to the police station on Friday night. Technically, he died in custody. There is allegation of fault on part of the police and the independent inquiry will determine it,” he added.

Earlier in the day, Ma-

hanta had said that the incharge of Batadrava police station has been suspended and rest of the staff closed, following the attack.

In a Facebook post previously, the DGP had said that Islam was released by the police on Saturday and handed over to his wife, who took him to two hospitals when he complained of uneasiness before being declared dead by doctors.

The family members of the deceased fish trader, however, had claimed that the police demanded Rs 10,000 and a duck as a bribe for his release, and his wife visited the police station with a duck on Saturday morning.

When she returned with the money later, she learnt that her husband had been taken to Nagaon Civil Hospital. After reaching there, she found him dead, they claimed.

Alleging that the man died of torture, villagers gheraoed the police station, allegedly assaulted on-duty personnel and then torched the building.

Videos of the incident showed a woman sprinkling some inflammable liquid on two-wheelers parked in front of the police station and setting them on fire. The blaze engulfed the police station soon after and fire tenders had to be called to douse it.

Special DGP (Law and Order) GP Singh, who also visited Batadrava, said forensic experts have been requested to collect residue from the arson site as there are allegations that kerosene or petrol-type inflammable liquids were used.

On the loss of case diaries and other evidence stored in the police station, Singh said all FIRs in the last three years were filed online and copies of case diaries have been kept in two offices other than the one attacked.

Sikkim pays tribute to former Assam associate prof held for ‘Cong avoided road devp in Arunachal’s Chogyal on 99th birth anniv criticizing govt policies gets bail border villages fearing peace disruption’

GANGTOK, 22 MAY: Many denizens of this picturesque town nestled in the eastern Himalayas gathered along with the state’s governor Ganga Prasad and former Prince Palden Namgyal to pay tribute to the Last Chogyal of Sikkim, Palden Thondup Namgyal on his 99th birth anniversary at the Memorial Park at Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Deorali this morning.

Soldep, a tradational monastic ritual was performed by monks from Pemayangtse monastery in West Sikkim while the Governor released a Centennial Badge.

The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is observing the centennial year of the Chogyal’s birthday with a wide variety of programmes to be held during the different seasons for a whole year, till the 22nd of May 2023. The late Palden Thondup Namgyal who ascended to the throne of Sikkim in 1965 after the death of his father Sir Tashi Namgyal, had ruled over the tiny Himalayan principality, till a referendum abolished hereditary rule and made Sikkim a part of India in 1975.

An alumni of St Joseph’s, Kalimpong and Bishop Cotton School, Simla, Thondup Namgyal had helped his father negotiate a treaty with India in 1949 which made the Buddhist principality a protectorate of the South Asian giant, just ahead of the Chinese invasion of neighbouring Tibet.

Last Chogyal of Sikkim Palden Thondup Namgyal.

He was crown prince when India and China clashed over a disputed border in 1962 and Chogyal or ruler when the two giants faced off at Nathu La pass in Sikkim.

Indian troops based in his principality with support from Sikkim repulsed the Chinese attack and gained what military observers describe as “decisive tactital advantage” by gaining the high ground. Thondup Namgyal had married Hope Cook, an America socialite in 1963, soon after the Indo-China clash after a whirlwind romance. Hi first wife, a Tibetan noblewoman Samyo Kushoe Sangideki had died six year before his second marriage. Cooke divorced Namgyal in 1980, five years after his deposition as ruler. The former Chogyal died two years later in 1982 at a New York hospital battling cancer.

HAILAKANDI (ASSAM), MAY 22 (PTI): An associate professor of a college in Assam’s Hailakandi district, who was arrested for allegedly sending emails to officials criticising government policies and using unparliamentarily words against the chief minister, has been granted bail by a local court, a senior police officer said on Sunday.

A suo moto case was registered by the police against the accused based on his emails and he was placed under arrest on Saturday after nearly 18 hours of questioning, he said. “The accused moved for bail, which was granted to him late on Saturday evening,” the officer said.

He had sent out emails to several government officials, including the superintendent of police of Hailakandi, “which was extremely hateful and communal in nature”, the officer stated. The associate professor is facing allegation of attempting to insult other religious faiths with a purpose of creating a divisive atmosphere, he said.

He is also being accused of impersonating his minor son to criticise government policies, he added.

“The email had used slang language and highly objectionable words against authorities of the Assam government, including Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Education Minister Ranoj Pegu. “In the email, he criticised the educational system and tried to promote a book written by him, which is based primarily of Islamic faith and virtue,” he said. The senior officer claimed that it was a “deliberate and malicious intend to outrage the religious feelings and an attempt to insult other religious faith with a purpose of creating divisive atmosphere”.

He also allegedly impersonated his child, who studies in Class IV, and submitted an objectionable petition against the government Program ‘Gunotsav’, an exercise to evaluate government schools, the officer added.

NAMSAI (ARUNACHAL P R A D E S H ) , M AY 2 2 (PTI): Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Sunday claimed that the successive Congress governments at the Centre did not want to build proper roads in the Arunachal Pradesh villages along the India-China border as they feared that the initiative could facilitate the passage of army personnel from the neighbouring country into the frontier state.

Addressing a public rally here, Rijiju, who represents Arunachal West parliamentary constituency in Lok Sabha, stated that the scenario changed after the NDA came to power at the Centre, with the Narendra Modi government ensuring that motorable roads get built along the border.

“Former defence minister A K Anthony had openly disclosed in Parliament that the governments, since Independence, stuck to the policy of avoiding

Kiren Rijiju road construction along China border out of fear that Chinese army and people would move in to the Indian territory and disturb peace.

“It is with this mindset, the successive governments at the Centre ruled the country for decades without thinking about the development of people in the border areas,” the law minister said.

Rijiju noted that the prime minister entrusted him with the responsibility to “ensure that every development scheme reaches to

the last mile and the last person.

“We did not want to distort the relations with our neighbouring country, while also ensuring that steps were taken to protect every inch of our territory.

With this thought process, the prime minster started making plans, and today we are witnessing the light of development,” he said.

The minister called upon the elected representatives of the state to join hands with the prime minister in his mission to develop the northeast.

“It may be a cabinet meeting or an important government function, the PM first asks for suggestions to develop the northeastern states through implementation of various schemes.

All villages in Arunachal Pradesh are now connected by roads, electricity and water supply, something that was a distant dream a decade ago,” he added.

‘Make in India’ turning out to be ray of hope for global growth: PM Modi

NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (PTI): The Indian industry and the “Make in India” initiative are turning out to be a “ray of hope” for global growth, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday and asserted that the country is preserving and promoting its antiquity, while also strengthening its innovation and modernity.

Modi made the remarks in his message on the 80th birthday celebrations of Sri Ganapaty Sachchidananda Swami via videoconferencing.

Sachchidananda Swami founded the Avadhoota Datta Peetham, an international spiritual, cultural and social welfare organisation.

In his remarks, Modi, in the context of the auspicious occasion falling during the period of “Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav”, recalled the teaching of seers to stress on putting others before self.

“With the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,

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Narendra Modi

Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas’, the country is calling for collective pledges.

Today, the country is preserving and promoting its antiquity and, at the same time, giving strength to its innovation and modernity,” the prime minister said.

“Today, the identity of India is yoga as well as youth. Today, the world is looking at our startups as its future. Our industry and our Make in India are turning out to be a ray of hope for global growth,” he asserted, adding that people have to work towards achieving

these resolutions.

Modi said he would like spiritual centres to be centres of inspiration in this direction as well.

He greeted Sachchidananda Swamy and his followers on the occasion and noted the dedication of the “Hanumat Dwar” entrance arch by seers and the special guests.

Quoting scriptures, Modi said the life of Sachchidananda Swamy is a living example of the fact that seers emerge for the welfare of humanity and their lives are intertwined with social progress and human welfare. The prime minister expressed satisfaction that at the Avadhoota Datta Peetham, modernity is also nurtured along with spirituality.

He cited the grand Hanuman temple in Mysuru with 3D mapping, a lightand-sound show and a bird park with a modern management. Modi noted that

apart from being a great centre for the study of the Vedas, the Avadhoota Datta Peetham is undertaking impactful innovation in using music for health purposes.

“This use of science for nature, this amalgamation of technology with spirituality is the soul of a dynamic India. I am happy that with the efforts of seers like Swamiji, today the youngsters of the country are getting acquainted with the strength of their traditions and taking them forward,” he said.

Noting its work in the preservation of nature and the service of birds, the prime minister urged the Avadhoota Datta Peetham to work for water and river conservation as well.

Lauding the organisation’s contribution in the Swachh Bharat Mission, he also asked for its contribution in the campaign for 75 “Amrit Sarovar” in every district.

Quad Summit opportunity to review initiatives’ progress: PM Modi NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (PTI): The second in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit in Japan will provide an opportunity for leaders of four countries to review the progress of the grouping’s initiatives and exchange views on developments in the IndoPacific as well as on global issues of mutual interest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday.

In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Japan from May 23-24, Modi said during his visit he will also hold a bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden, where they will discuss further consolidation of the multi-faceted bilateral relations.

“We will also continue our dialogue on regional developments and contemporary global issues,” he said.

Modi said he will be visiting Tokyo at the invitation of his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida, and noted that in March 2022, he had hosted Kishida for the 14th India-Japan Annual Summit.

“During my visit to Tokyo, I look forward to continuing our conversation further, with an aim to strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership,” he said.

In Japan, Modi said, he will also participate in the second in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit, which will provide an opportunity for the leaders of the four Quad countries to review the progress of initiatives taken by the grouping.

“We will also exchange views about developments in the Indo-Pacific region and global issues of mutual interest,” Modi said.

The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue comprises India, the US, Japan and Australia. Modi also noted that the newly-elected Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will be joining the Quad Leaders’ Summit for the first time.

“I look forward to a bilateral meeting with him during which the multifaceted cooperation between India and Australia under

the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and regional and global issues of mutual interest will be discussed,” Modi said. In his statement, the prime minister also said economic cooperation between India and Japan is an important aspect of their Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

“During the March Summit, PM Kishida and I had announced our intention to realize JPY 5 trillion in public and private investment and financing over the next five years from Japan to India,” Modi said.

“During the forthcoming visit, I will meet with Japanese business leaders with the goal of further strengthening economic linkages between our countries, in pursuit of this objective,” he said.

Noting that Japan is home to nearly 40,000 members of the Indian diaspora, who are an important anchor in our relations wih Japan, Modi said he looks forward to interacting with them.

BJP MP Arjun Singh rejoins TMC

Arjun Singh

KO L K ATA , M AY 2 2 (PTI): In a jolt to the saffron camp in West Bengal, BJP MP Arjun Singh on Sunday rejoined the Trinamool Congress, ending weeks of speculation over his possible switchover to the ruling party.

Singh was welcomed into the party by TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee at his office in south Kolkata.

“Warmly welcoming former Vice President of @ BJP4Bengal and MP from Barrackpore, Shri @ArjunsinghWB into the All India Trinamool Congress family. He joins us today in the presence of our National General Secretary Shri @ abhishekaitc,” the TMC said on its official Twitter handle.

Rs 1,500 cr drug seizure: DRI Loudspeakers removed from mosques Kejriwal hosts lunch for KCR; discusses political situation in country searches Kerala, Tamil Nadu donated to schools, hospitals: Yogi

Sudhakar Goud and general secretar y Gampa Venugopal, expressed their gratitude to the party president for the formation of the state in 2014 and Sonia Gandhi called on them to “work hard to win the Telangana state elections”.

While Telangana is scheduled for Assembly polls next year, the next general election in India will take place in 2024.

During his meeting with overseas workers, Rahul Gandhi is said to have reiterated his stance that the party is geared up for an ideological fight in India.

IOC UK vice-president Gurminder Randhawa updated the Congress leader of the women’s wing’s activities in UK as well as a stock take of recently held state elections in Punjab as part of what was described as a “positive and interactive session” with the IOC UK team.

During his UK visit, Rahul Gandhi addressed the Ideas for India conference on Friday, attended by other Opposition members including CPI(M)’s Sitaram Yechury, RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav and TMC’s Mahua Moitra.

Yogi Adityanath

these loudspeakers are being donated to schools and hospitals for their use,” Adityanath said.

Talking about the issue of stray cattle in the state, he listed several steps taken by the government to deal with it. “...when our government came to power in the state, it shut down all illegal slaughterhouses. And then stray cattle were roaming on roads and in the fields.

Earlier they were smuggled into illegal slaughterhouses.

To meet this challenge, we set up over 5,600 stray cattle shelters,” he said.

He said a new system is being set up for producing CNG from cow dung, which will be bought from people at Re 1 per kg, Adityanath said, adding that all necessary steps will be taken to protect cows.

He also talked about the grand Ram temple being built in Ayodhya and the renovated Kashi Vishwanath temple complex.

In every assembly constituency in the state, the government is developing a pilgrimage site, he said.

He also spoke about the economic progress of Uttar Pradesh under the “double engine” government -- same party rule at the Centre and in the state.

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Bhagwant Mann at a bicycle rally.

S A N G RU R , M AY 2 2 (PTI): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday led a bicycle rally on drug awareness here and said that his government was working on multiple plans to eradicate drugs from the society.

More than 15,000 cyclists took part in the rally, according to the government.

Addressing the gathering after flagging it off, the chief minister said, “Sangrur is the land of revolutionaries and today the people of Sangrur have once

again gathered for a noble cause.”

He said the aim of this rally is to create a mass awareness against the drug menace and wean the youths, who became its victim, away from it, according to an official press release.

Using the adage ‘an idle brain is a devil’s workshop’, Mann said that with more employment opportunities, there will be no space for drugs in the society.

“Our social bond is so strong that any seed could germinate on the land of Punjab but never the seed

of hatred. And when our health and mind are fit, we will together put the state on a high growth trajectory,” the CM said.

He said that in the coming days, more such awareness initiatives will be taken to promote physical and mental health of the people.

Mann said his government is working on many plans to eradicate drugs from the society, besides opening of more rehabilitation centres and clinics for better treatment of the drugaddicts.

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L O N D O N, M AY 2 2 (PTI): Congress president Sonia Gandhi has called on overseas party workers in the UK to work hard to help the Opposition win the upcoming elections, after Rahul Gandhi connected members of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) UK with his mother in a “surprise” phone call during his ongoing London visit.

Rahul Gandhi met IOC UK team members on Saturday to discuss partyrelated matters and listen to their views and concerns.

IOC UK President Kamal Dhaliwal and other team members present at the meeting urged him to take over the party’s presidency so the Congress can “come into power under his leadership”.

“In a surprise move, Rahul Gandhi ji connected IOC team members to Sonia Gandhi ji over the phone, during which Mrs Gandhi motivated all the team members to work hard for the party and win the upcoming elections,” IOC UK said in a statement.

IOC Telangana team members, spokesperson

Punjab CM leads bicycle rally on drug awareness in Sangrur

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Rahul Gandhi connects Cong workers in UK to Sonia Gandhi

the anti-farm law stir last year, in Chandigarh later in the day.

On Saturday, the Telangana chief minister, accompanied by Kejriwal, had visited schools and Mohalla clinics of the Delhi government. Rao is in Delhi as part of his week-long tour to attend national-level political and social programmes.

On Saturday, he had also met Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav.

06

ister Shri @ArvindKejriwal hosted Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri K. Chandrashekar Rao at his residence for lunch, today,” the Delhi Chief Minister’s Office tweeted.

Kejriwal and Rao, along with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, are scheduled to pay tributes to the martyrs of the Galwan Valley clash against the Chinese troops and the farmers who died during

20

NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (PTI): Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met his Telangana counterpart K Chandrashekar Rao at the AAP leader’s residence here on Sunday.

The two chief ministers had lunch together and discussed various issues, including the current political situation in the country.

Later, they left for Chandigarh, officials said.

“Hon’ble Chief Min-

carriers or have a deeper involvement in the smuggling.

The DRI sources also told IANS that the team was also in the process of cross checking the source of the heroin and there are reports that the drug had come from Pakistan.

The Central Intelligence agencies have also commenced investigation into the role of former LTTE operatives in the drug haul.

A former operative of the LTTE was arrested from Chennai a few months ago while she was boarding a flight to Mumbai. There were also reports of LTTE trying to regroup in Sri Lanka and to fund the movement with money secured through drug smuggling.

With the huge haul of drugs confiscated off the Lakshadweep coast and six persons apprehended, the Central intelligence agencies have given tip-offs to Kerala and Tamil Nadu Police on certain people and their movements.

NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (PTI): Loudspeakers at mosques in Uttar Pradesh have either turned down their volume or been removed, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Sunday and added the uninstalled public address systems are being donated to schools and hospitals.

The chief minister further said there were no riots in the BJP-ruled state during and after the recent assembly polls.

Virtually addressing a media conclave organised by RSS-linked weeklies ‘Panchjanya’ and ‘Organiser’, Adityanath said, “In many states there were riots after the elections were over.

There were no riots in UP during or after the elections.

After the formation of the government, Ram Navami was celebrated with fervour.

Hanuman Jayanti celebrations passed off peacefully.

This is the same UP where small issues led to riots earlier,” he said.

“Now, you must have seen for the first time that Eid Namaz was not performed on roads. Now, you must have heard that either the volume of the mosque loudspeaker has gone down or the loudspeaker has been removed completely. Now

N

Telangana CM K. Chandrashekar Rao with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal during a meeting, in Delhi. (PTI)

C H E N NA I , M AY 2 2 (IANS): The Department of Revenue intelligence (DRI) was conducting raids in several places in Kerala and Tamil Nadu in search of a few people who are believed to be behind the smuggling of drugs worth Rs 1,500 crore in international markets.

A joint operation by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Department of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) off the Lakshadweep coast has seized the drugs.

Sleuths of the two premier agencies had intercepted two Indian boats, “Prince” and “Little Jesus” that were moving towards the Lakshadweep coast on May 18. The boats were towed to Kochi on May 20 night. A total of 218 kg heroin packed in one kg packets were recovered from the two boats.

Two Keralites and four persons from Tamil Nadu were found in the two fishing boats.

Sources in the agency told IANS that searches were being carried out in many places in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. However, the officials did not reveal further details on the probe and whether the arraigned people in the boat were just

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6

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post VOL. XXXII NO. 166 DIMAPUR, MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

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Words and figures

nion finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman was left with little option but to slash down prices of fuel and domestic LPG after Wholesale Price Index (WPI) touched a record high of 15.08 per cent in April on price rise across all items and Retail inflation too rising to a near eight-year high of 7.79 per cent in that month, remaining above the RBI’s inflation target for the fourth straight months. The finance minister announced on May 21, that the price of petrol will come down by Rs. 9.5, while the diesel will be cheaper by Rs. 7.The finance minister’s sharp cut in central excise duty on fuel prices amid surging inflation. Also, the finance minister announced that the government will give Rs. 200 per cylinder subsidy to Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries for 12 cylinders in a year to help ease some of the burden arising from cooking gas rates rising to record levels. According to the government, it will stand to lose Rs. 1 lakh crore by taking the cut on central excise duties. The opposition Congress was quick to point out that the reduction made no real impact as the consumers still paid high prices. The opposition pointed out that petrol prices have increased by Rs. 10 per litre in the last 60 days and has been reduced by Rs.9.5 per litre. Again, diesel prices have increased by Rs.10 per litre in the last 60 days and has been reduced

by Rs.7 per litre. Further Congress said LPG has been hiked to Rs.400 per cylinder during the past 18 months and therefore, offering subsidy of Rs.200 per cylinder for 12 months could not be for welfare of the people, who are still made to pay high cost.

As finance minister Sitharaman has been presiding over a series of rollbacks either on budgets or on matters like small savings or interest rates and giving the opposition ample fuel to nail her for inability to read the writing on the wall. However the political compulsions for the rollbacks are not confined to fuel but also on the three controversial farm laws which triggered a massive nationwide protests and resulting in deaths of scores. The BJP government stuck its neck out for the laws but had to climb down after realising that a political peace deal was the better option than a costly conflict with agitating farmers.

In the past after regular hikes, the Modi government blamed the Congress-led UPA for the crisis. In May 2014 when UPA left office and Modi took power, the cost of the Indian basket of crude oil stood at $113 per barrel. However, within six months by January 2015, the crude oil price fell to $50 per barrel. It also further crashed to $29 in January 2016. But the Modi government did not slash prices to help customers.

Excise duty has risen sharply in eight years - from Rs 9.48 a litre in April 2014 to Rs 27.9 on petrol. Duty on diesel has risen from Rs 3.18 a litre to Rs 21.8.

The central excise collection from petrol and diesel increased from Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY20 to Rs 3.72 lakh crore in FY21. However, the government can no longer hide behind this blame-game anymore since the middle class have been feeling the impact on their economic conditions due to rising prices of commodities due to the government’s policy decisions.

DailyDevotion The Explanation For Our Difficulties

…that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us… — John 17:21 If you are going through a time of isolation, seemingly all alone, read John 17. It will explain exactly why you are where you are— because Jesus has prayed that you “may be one” with the Father as He is. Are you helping God to answer that prayer, or do you have some other goal for your life? Since you became a disciple, you cannot be as independent as you used to be.

God reveals in John 17 that His purpose is not just to answer our prayers, but that through prayer we might come to discern His mind. Yet there is one prayer which God must answer, and that is the prayer of Jesus— “…that they may be one just as We are one…” (John 17:22). Are we as close to Jesus Christ as that?

God is not concerned about our plans; He doesn’t ask, “Do you want to go through this loss of a loved one, this difficulty, or this defeat?” No, He allows these things for His own purpose. The things we are going through are either making us sweeter, better, and nobler men and women, or they are making us more critical and fault-finding, and more insistent on our own way. The things that happen either make us evil, or they make us more saintly, depending entirely on our relationship with God and its level of intimacy. If we will pray, regarding our own lives, “Your will be done” (Matthew 26:42), then we will be encouraged and comforted by John 17, knowing that our Father is working according to His own wisdom, accomplishing what is best. When we understand God’s purpose, we will not become small-minded and cynical. Jesus prayed nothing less for us than absolute oneness with Himself, just as He was one with the Father. Some of us are far from this oneness; yet God will not leave us alone until we are one with Him— because Jesus prayed, “…that they all may be one….”

Quotes

“Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.” ~ William Shakespeare

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

New economy is religious: $ 40 bn at stake, it’s glitzy, dynamic

T

he temple economy is as large as the Indian budget is sustaining the country. Its contours across the religious denominations – Hindu, Muslim and Christians – are much wider than it is perceived.

It is changing the society and its financial parameters.

The NSSO sur vey estimates that temple economy is worth Rs 3.02 lakh crore or about $ 40 billion and 2.32 percent of the GDP. In reality it may be larger. It includes everything flowers, oil, lamps, perfumes, bangles, sindur, images and puja dresses. The vast majority of informal unprotected labour is its driver.

The 2022-23 Central government revenue is Rs 19,34,706 and mere six temples collected Rs 24000 crore in cash alone.

There are 5 lakh temples, 7 lakh mosques and 35,000 churches in this country.

Top officials as devotees give a kick.

Donations for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya collected in 2021 is Rs 5450 crore, almost equal to Rs 5000 crore country’s defence budget. It surpassed the collection in the first phase. Others are Tirumala Tirupati Rs 3023 crore; Vaishno Devi Rs 2000 crore, Ambaji Rs 4134 crore (Rs 5163 crore

in 2019-20), Dwarkadhish Rs 1172 crore, Somnath Rs 1205, Golden Temple Rs 690 crore Donations to Kamakhya temple in Guwahati; Krishna Janmabhoomi, Mathura; Banke Bihar Mandir in Vrindavan, Padmanabha mandir, Siddhivinayak mandir and Kashi Vishvanath mandir have similar large earnings.

Gold donations at different temples vary from 130 kg at Tirupati to 380 kg at Shirdi.

The Pew Global Attitude survey shows that more than 25 percent of Indians reported having become more religious over the past four-five years.

Between 2007 and 2015, the share of respondents in India who perceived religion to be very important increased by 11 percent to 80 percent now.

Ram Mandir movement and the court verdict has been a game changer.

It has poured in huge funding into a region that was one of the most backward. It boosted funding for mosques and Islamic shrines too. During pandemic the silent real estate boom took place in Ayodhya, Varanasi, Vindhyachal, Mirzapur and Mathura. Land prices soared in the most backward places. The premium on land is unprecedented.

Whether religious activities can sustain such

places would be interesting cuit tourism. The Ramato observe. The enthusiasm yana circuit is over the is high but would it surpass life philosophy of Lord the next industrial revival? Ram. Along with this, the The domestic reli- Char Dham road project gious tourism is surpass- has also been prepared. ing the number of for- The government has also eign visitors. Over 100 strengthened the Buddha crore domestic visits to circuit. Apart from this, new destinations suggest Prime Minister Narendra there is churning beyond Modi relaunched Varanasi Delhi-Agra-Jaipur golden corridor, Kedardham and triangle. Even 20 percent Badridham. Not only this, of nine crore foreign tour- the government is renovatists are visiting Madurai ing about 50 thousand and Mahabalipuram in temples in Jammu and Tamilnadu and Tirupati, Kashmir. No other prime in Andhra. minister made the visit to The NSSO figures religious shrines an event. suggest that 55 percent of Indira Gandhi used to visit Hindus undertake religious places and saints but often pilgrimages keeping low Shivaji Sarkar patronizing profile or at mid and small sized hotels dead of night away from after two years of pan- public glare. demic slump. Expenses The dargahs of Chisti, on religious travel Rs 2,717 Aulia, Charar-e-Sharif, per day/person Jama masjid of Bhopal, Expenses on social Delhi and other shrines travel Rs 1,068 per day/ have large income in cash person and kinds. Similarly variExpenditure on edu- ous churches also have cational travel Rs 2,286 per decent incomes. The moveday/person. Expenditure ment for Ram temple in on religious travel Rs 1316 Ayodhya stated to have crore/day increased the incomes for Annual expenditure most Hindu and Muslim on religious travel Rs 4.74 shrines. The earnings of lakh crore the Hindu temples are This NSSO data says known to some extent but that Indians do more pil- whether it is the Ajmer grimage than business trip dargah or other Muslim and spend more on pil- shrines they are shy of grimage than traveling for telling the approximate education purpose. figures.

The government has The income of Ajmer chalked out religious cir- dargah stated to be around

Rs 200 crore is an underestimate. The dargah is visited by foreign tourists, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis and Hindus in large numbers. So are many other Muslim shrines. Donations are in cash and kinds as also food grains and other objects pour in everyday.

But it is not known to contribute much in charity unlike the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam that has hospitals, universities and other specialized institutions. Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevashram Sangh like organisations are always in the forefront of relief operations anywhere.

The churches in North-East, tribal areas and at some others engage in charity. But Caritas India says that their funds are limited and activities are also like that.

The issue here is not that who indulges in charity. The religious funds have emerged as parallel source of funding for various kinds of activities.

The real estate is a major activity. Others include political, elections and other transactions.

These enormous “donations” reaching various small and big organisations are used for many activities in places like Hardwar, Vrindavan, Ayodhya and Ujjain and even nondescript places like Deoband.

One particular function is to launder the funds by issuing donation cheques at cuts of 20 to 60 percent depending as per the exigencies. It ensures that those with illicit or non-tax paid money is channeled back to the system. Many institutions have “secular” approach in dealing with the money. Nobody has compunction. It was a favourite route during demonetisation. Not a single note possibly was left out at the bank coffers for this “generous” religiosity.

The holy fund is changing the politics, hospital administration and even university portals and more. Dishing out degrees is not difficult and that becomes a money spinner.

During demonetisation some heads of mutts were in the news for their wide connections and effective delivery. Their services were not limited to India. They could deliver new currency notes with ease even in dollars to Dubai, Canada, England or other destinations at premium price. The hawala linkages help.

They are good at balance sheet manipulations for whatever the amount may be for turning black into white. Even scrapped notes were equally exchange with élan. Yes, these are done to adjust the murky money.

Post-mortem

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Hate Crimes: parallels between India and America

orroded mind-sets such as racially motivated in the USA and religiously triggered fanatics in India would never accept and hardly understand or come to terms that there’s place for everyone to live in respective countries and not just for some.

For them, vis-à-vis racially motivated think that America is theirs and Hindu fanatics want India should be only for Hindus. There are a number of parallels these two categories carry out their intent, purpose and mission are the same, the eventual targets are different such as the American society is increasing becoming racist and the Indian society is polarized between those who believe in Hindu rashtra and others who believe in plural identity and secularism.

In recent years America and India have been witnessing a gory of hate crimes surfacing at alarming levels. On the 14th of May, 2022, a teenage white supremacist who raged that people of color are replacing whites in America in a 180-page “manifesto”, zeroed in a minority fragmented store in Buffalo, New York, shot and killed 10 people and injured more than three – almost all of them ‘Blacks’. Payton Gendron, 18, surrendered after the carnage, which he lived-streamed on a social media platform; and was charged with first degree murder in what law enforcement officials described as a racially motivated hate crime, remanded without bail.

India has also been witnessing waves of communal hate violence across the country. Communal violence is toxic and deadly

V

– because for them, they consider “the Other” as “different”. On the 17th of April, 2022, violent clashes broke out between two groups in the Jahangirpuri area in Delhi where several people as well as police personnel were injured. Delhi police apprehended 23 people including two juveniles and of those two prime suspects namely Ansar and Aslam. Sources point out that the probe not only aimed at a possible link of accused with the 2020 northeast Delhi riots and anti-CAA NRC protests.

Moving from India (Delhi) and to draw parallel to another case that happened recently in the state of Karnataka, a BJP-ruled is increasingly becoming a toxichub for hate crimes. Recently it sparked yet another communal clash between two communities based on a message posted in the WhatsApp. Suspected miscreants were arrested. Prohibitory orders were clamped till the 20th of April, 22, in Hubballi, 400 km from Bengaluru after a mob went on the rampage. Nowadays it is becoming a common sight wherein in the religious processions and conventions extremists brandishing guns and wielding swords. Indian society is moving from non-violence to violence as violent incidents are increasingly becoming new-normal and a norm.

There appears to be motivation stemming out from red flags about Payton’s extremist views to carry out mass shooting in Buffalo, New York grocery store. Besides the racist opinion, he seemed to have threatened violence and

shooting with fellow students.

Accordingly, he had been referred for mental health evaluation and counselling. On his way prior to carrying out the dastardly shooting he chose to refer the zip code with a heavy black population, and then he began a live stream that showed him wearing military-style tactical gear with helmet. On the barrel of his rile, the “N-word” is spelled out in white paint, with the number 14.

Number 14 refers to 14-word statement which is popular amongst the white supremacists that reads: “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white people” …

The statement attributes to the late David Lane, an activist with a white supremacist terror group known as The Order. In a 180-page manifesto that he posted online before going on his killing spree, the big-built teenager espoused paranoid white supremacist views, referring to the “great replacement theory,” which claims Democrats are deliberately importing illegal migrants into the US to achieve electoral dominance while driving whites to extinction.

It is aired often in the so-called “Ultra MAGA” constituency, including by some prominent commentators in the right-wing media.

Gendron agrees to the fact that he has been radicalized by 4Chan, the online chat group that launched Quron, and he refers to other mass shootings by white supremacists like Brenton Tarrant, who massacred 51 people in a mosque in New Zealand, and Dylan Roof, who killed nine people in a black church in South Carolina.

There have been multiple racist attacks on Asians – including Indians – in recent years in the United States. Parallel to the happening in America, India is enmeshed with hate crime based on “Hindu majoritarianism and aggressive nationalism” entrenched in the manifesto far-right BJP ‘s manifesto’s, a cultural wing of BJP premised on cultural nationalism has evolved a number of strategies and intervention to purge and root out the Dalits, Tribals and the minorities including the Muslims and Christians from the country.

In this the Reds of America and Lotus of India gel well with each other as they resonate the far-right white supremacy in America and Aryan/Brahminic dominance in India. In India festive seasons end hate crimes against the Christians and Muslims. Far-right fundamentalists and cultural nationalists display harmful weapons and hate narratives.

As the chief political executive PM Modi is yet to speak and his silence means many things.

More the denials and longer the silence, greater the right-wing outfits gets emboldened. The poison that the Hindutva is injecting is indeed insidious and toxic.

President Biden is different than PM Modi stating that racially motivated hate crime was “abhorrent to the very fabric of this nation” and thus called “Any act of domestic terrorism, including an act perpetrated in the name of a repugnant white nationalist ideology … antithetical to everything we stand for in America”. He did insist that “Hate must have no safe

Banned in India, exported abroad

ideos are surfacing now and then in the net showing right wing vigilantes following trucks laden with cows or barging into slaughter houses, either lynching the beef trader, assaulting the butcher of beef stall or getting the occupants of the vehicles arrested, seizing vehicles on the pretext of carrying beef illegally and so on. The bone of contention of the right wing vigilantes is that Gaumata or mother cow is not given reverence and that the Hindu sentiment hurt by the acts of these minorities who are trading in beef.

Many BJP ruled states have imposed a ban on cow slaughter and trade and trading in beef has become a crime. Anyone found doing so, is sentenced to rigorous imprisonment and also a heavy fine is imposed. No trade or consumption of beef is allowed, but it is ironical to find that India is second largest exporter of beef to Muslim

and Christian countries and even to some Asian countries. The reality is that the export companies are owned

by Hindus and their companies have Muslim names.

Some might say that beef refers to buffaloes’ meat, but when a reality check is done, it is found, while traveling In a train or in a bus , on either side in the fields, cows and oxen are seen, very few buffaloes.

If beef trading is hurting the Hindu sentiment and their belief -cow is sacred and called Gaumata, why are cows not given reverence by the Hindus themselves? Firstly, Why is artificial insemination process used to impregnate a cow? It’s a painful procedure. Secondly, why is a calf prevented from sucking full belly milk from its mother? These are not the ways, a Gaumata ( mother cow ) should be treated ; nothing abnormal or artificial should be done to the cow.

Thirdly, why should beef or cow meat be exported since the cow is sacred,?

Raid all beef export houses and get the big shots arrested and sentenced to rigorous imprisonment and their licenses cancelled and after that, impose a strict ban on the sale and trade of beef within India. Surely, when that happens, minorities will co-operate and adhere to the government’s dictate.

Let not the right wing vigilantes take law into their own hands as long as these criteria are fulfilled by the government.

Let not the right wing vigilantes lynch innocent minorities who trade in beef just to earn an honest livelihood to feed their families ,meet their medical expenses and to meet their educational expenses of their children.

Eugene Bachmann, MGM Hr. Sec. School, Midland Dimapur

harbor. We must do everything … to end hate-fueled domestic terrorism.” America and India, the world’s greatest democracies are built on plurality of identities and respect to mutual co-existence.

In recent times white supremacists and neo-Nazis have injected the white-race supremacy in the American society. In India hate politics with divisive intent is currently the order of the day.

In the last eight years we have been experiencing Hindu fundamentalists and those who tow Hindu majoritarian have been polarizing the Indian society layer by layer. White supremacism as an ideology coupled with neoNazism in America and majoritarian politics enjoined with muscular nationalism in India parallelly co-exists and posits a number of similarities.

America and India thus juxtapose in such ways where they are racially and religiously motivated killing and flagrant abuse of blacks, Asians, Dalits, Tribals and minorities taking at alarming levels. America has a long-troubled history of racism, while India is entangled with casteist overtones for centuries.

Brahminism and Hindu fanatism are two sides of the same coin. Spate of killings and massacres of those who are different in race, caste, country and religion underpins hatred because they think the “other” is different. In such a volatile context, peace, unity, reconciliation fails to offer any merit and thus becomes obsolete.

Dr. John Mohan Razu

Reader’s Post

Appeal RD to check village development report with proof after fund released Sir,

As a concern citizen, I felt very discouraged to know VDB fund is to develop for the concern villages that’s why people elect VC and VDB secy for the betterment to look not for their own benefits. Recently, we all have heard misused of VDB fund in some village’s, as we all know our state is full of corruption. Honesty and loyalty are Vanishing. We often complain about road and infrastructure ...why don’t utilize to develop those work from VDB fund? I would like to request to all the villages leader whatever fund receive for village development use it wisely if not we all are equal to corruption even in village level. These days very difficult to have God fearing leader so why don’t You and I be an example to end corruption by doing little step.

M Bonglang Ngonyen, Walford Dimapur

Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

7

NATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

killings: Role of police Owaisi warns of Babri Masjid-type situation Encounter under scanner in several cases

HYDERABAD, MAY 22 ( IANS): Ever since a court in Varanasi ordered a videography survey of the Gyanvapi mosque, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has been expressing the apprehension that another Babri Masjid will happen.

The MP from Hyderabad faulted the order of the lower court saying it violates The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991 and was passed without hearing the Muslim side.

With the issue of Shahi Idgah Masjid at Mathura and disputes at other places being raised during the last few days, he believes that only strict adherence to the 1991 Act will prevent fresh controversies.

The Act prohibits the change in the religious character of a place of worship.

According to the Act, the religious character of a place of worship existing on August 15, 1947 shall continue to be the same as it existed on that day.

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief is concerned over the violation

Asaduddin Owaisi

of the 1991 Act, which was described by the Supreme Court as part of the basic character of the Constitution of India, and hopes that the courts will walk the talk on the Act. He told IANS that the lower court’s order amounts to an attempt to change the nature and character of a place of worship which goes against the 1991 Act. “There can’t be more unfair and biased judgment than this. It goes against the principles of natural justice,” said Owaisi, the most vocal Muslim leader on various issues.

He was expecting that the Supreme Court would order a complete stay on the order of the lower court.

However, the apex court on May 20 transferred the case pending before the civil judge, senior division, to the court of the Varanasi

Dalai Lama congratulates Australian PM-elect

Dalai Lama and Anthony Albanese.

DHARAMSALA, MAY 22 (IANS): Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has written to Australian Prime Minister-elect Anthony Albanese to congratulate him on his party’s victory.

“Beginning with my first visit to Australia in 1982,” His Holiness wrote, “I have had the privilege to visit your beautiful country quite regularly, mostly at the invitation of educational institutions and organisations committed to peace.”

“I have been deeply touched by the openness and warmth of people from all walks of life. I have been

encouraged by the enthusiastic interest many have shown in my efforts to promote basic human values such as kindness, tolerance and forgiveness, as well as inter-religious harmony.

“We Tibetans have been honoured to enjoy the support of the Australian people and their respective leaders in our effort to preserve our Buddhist cultural heritage.

Its principles of nonviolence and compassion have the potential to help individuals find peace of mind and contribute to peace in the world.”

district judge. “I was expecting the Supreme Court to categorically state that the 1991 Act is made so that future controversies don’t arise. I was disappointed on this point. I was expecting that the Supreme Court will nip this in the bud because every day new issues are being raised. We hope that the Varanasi district magistrate will hear the case on priority and do justice,” said the MP. While transferring the case, the Supreme Court stated that its interim order of May 17 for the protection of the area where a ‘Shivling’ was purportedly found and free access to Muslims to offer namaz will continue.

Owaisi argues that the lower court had passed the order to seal a part of the mosque without hearing the other party and without the survey commissioner’s report being submitted in the court.

“It was blatantly unfair. Where in the world will you have this kind of judgment? It was against the 1991 Act and the Supreme Court judgment which had upheld the Act. The Al-

lahabad High Court had also given a stay when a similar petition was moved in 1998.”

The MP wondered how a fountain which has been there in ‘wazu khana’ in the mosque for 400 years can be termed the religious structure of another faith.

“If every fountain is seen like this, no fountain will be spared. Where will this take us to? We may even have to shut down the Taj Mahal,” he said.

“We are ver y apprehensive that another Babri Masjid will happen.

Look at the chronology of the Babri Masjid issue. It started with chabutra, the idols were surreptitiously placed inside the mosque, then there was unlocking of gates, demolition of Babri Masjid, a makeshift temple was erected, permission was given to pray in the makeshift temple and ultimately the Muslim side lost the title suit in the Supreme Court. Not a single person was convicted in the criminal case (relating to demolition of Babri Masjid).

“I had opposed the Supreme Court judgment

in the Babri Masjid case. I had called it the victory of faith over facts and voiced apprehension that it will open a can of worms as this will lead to new problems in Gyanvapi, Mathura Idgah, Tele Wali Masjid Lucknow and Haji Ali dargah in Mumbai. Unfortunately, I have been proved right,” Owaisi said.

Owaisi added that during the hearing of the Babri Masjid case, many had advised Muslims to show magnanimity by giving up their claim as there will be a closure with this.

“See what is happening now. They are saying the same thing again. There will never be a closure as the Sangh Parivar has on its agenda 50,000 mosques which they say were not mosques,” he said.

Owaisi pointed out that even as the Gyanvapi issue was being discussed, the district court in Mathura allowed a plea on ownership of the land in which the Shahi Idgah Mosque is built. He wondered how the other party could go back on the agreement reached more than 50 years ago.

NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (PTI): The alleged encounter killing of four suspects in the gang-rape and murder case of a veterinarian in Hyderabad in 2019 is not the only incident where fingers have been pointed out at the police, with there being several other such instances including the 2009 Dehradun encounter case that left an MBA student dead and the 1997 Connaught Place shootout in which two people were killed.

Recently, a threemember inquiry commission headed by a retired Supreme Court judge on the Hyderabad encounter submitted that the firing by the police personnel was allegedly deliberate and that three of the deceased were minor at the time of death.

Some of the other encounters where police officials have been found on the wrong side of the law either by a commission or a court, include that of Sadiq Jamal, who was shot dead by Gujarat Police. In 2003, the Gujarat Police shot dead Jamal, claiming

Mevani pitches for 4 young working Prezs for Cong AHMEDABAD, MAY 22 (IANS): Dalit Leader and Independent MLA from Vadgam, Jignesh Mevani, has challenged the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to dare paint the Congress as a party of the Dalits, OBCs and the minorities, or of the KHAM, a political acronym that once stood for Koli Kshatriya, Harijan (Dalit), Adivasi, and Muslim.

If the BJP thinks that by doing so it can tarnish the image of the Congress and garner upper caste votes, it will be a big strategic mistake of the ruling party that can backfire.

Speaking to IANS, Mevani, who had earlier pledged outside support to the Congress, said: “Earlier, the BJP had tried to tarnish the Congress party’s image by running gospel propaganda of pro-minority party. But it has failed, as running such campaign for more than two decades, the Congress’ vote share has not dwindled.”

The Dalit leader further explained that if the

BJP at all attempts to varnish Congress as the party of backward class, instead of damaging the Congress in electoral politics, it will boomerang for the ruling party, and on the contrary, Congress’ votes will consolidate and benefit the party.

He ruled out all allegations that Congress is not promoting or giving space to youths. Citing examples of him, Kanahiya Kumar, Alpesh Thakor and Hardik Patel, he said this is the best example that a party does care for the youth, not only gives space, but mentors and trains them and projects them as star campaigners.

Furthering the youths’ interest and to kill the myth of youths being sidelined in the party, he suggested that the party should appoint four youths as working presidents of the state unit -- his suggestion is that these youths should be from four zones of the state, and does not recommend on caste and creed line. They can be assigned specific tasks, responsibilities and also be

Jignesh Mevani

made accountable.

Mevani opined that just agitating or protesting on issues does not make an image of a political option.

Agitation or protest is to create awareness among the people about the issues they are facing and when the party comes up with a plan to resolve the problem, it makes it a political option. The Congress party is working on such a blueprint which it will put before the voters in the coming days, he added.

Citing an example, he said the Congress wants do away with the contract work system whether it is anganwadis, asha workers, lokrakshaks and such other services. For this the

Congress is working on the economics and financial requirements for regularising such a large workforce and how budget allocations can be made. The Congress will discontinue the outsourcing business and this will create huge employment opportunities in the state.

For job creation, the Congress party is working on reviving small and medium scale units, some 35,000 to 40,000 units closed down in the last ten to fifteen years. For that a state financing scheme can be launched and once the SMEs are revived, it will create further employment avenues. Such plans will be explained to the people, which will attract them back to the Congress.

Even manpower will be increased in each district by a minimum of 200 to 300 employees. MNREGA which is now only being implemented in the rural area can be introduced in the urban areas also. Now it gives 100 days guaranteed work, which can be doubled or tripled, Mevani said.

to have information that he was planning an attack on the then Chief Minister Narendra Modi and other top BJP leaders. According to an investigation by the CBI, not only was Jamal shot dead by the police in an alleged fake encounter, but also that the Intelligence Bureau played a role in it.

Many police inspectors and top IB officials were questioned and later accused in the case of his ‘encounter’.

In 2006, Tulsiram Prajapati, known to be an associate of Sohrabuddin Sheikh, was killed in an alleged fake encounter. According to the CBI, Prajapati was with Sheikh and Kausar Bi when the Gujarat Police caught them.

Prajapati was shown to be arrested in Rajasthan and later killed.

Similarly, Sohrabuddin Sheikh, who the Gujarat Police claimed was also a terrorist, was killed in an alleged fake encounter by the Gujarat and Rajasthan police in 2005. His wife Kausar Bi disappeared, and was alleged to have been

IIT-JEE to be open to students from 25 nations

NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (IANS): IIT-JEE (IITJoint Entrance Exam) is set to go global with the Indian government planning to hold the exam in 25 countries, right from the US to Vietnam, simultaneously.

In Kuala Lumpur and Lagos, these examinations were held last year. Earlier, with the cooperation of the Indian government, the IIT-JEE exams were held in 12 countries.

The countries where the examinations will be conducted are: the US, Australia, South Africa, Singapore, China, Nepal, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, among others.

Around 3,900 Under Graduate and 1,300 Postgraduate seats will be made available for the NRIs, Indians and foreign nationals studying abroad.

These seats will be reserved in top class en-

k-954/22

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RAM JANAKI HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL INFORMATION

Shiv Sena slams Raj Thackeray from one BJP MP, defy that opposition and go ahead.

Who will trap you? All such comments are made out of frustration. There is a need for counseling and treatment,” the Rajya Sabha member said. Notably, Raj Thackeray has been facing stiff opposition from Uttar Pradesh BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who has warned that the MNS chief will not be allowed to enter Ayodhya till he tendered a public apology for “humiliating” north Indians in the past. At a rally in Pune on Sunday, Thackeray claimed that political developments around his proposed Ayodhya visit

on June 5 were a ploy to “trap” his party workers into legal tangles and hence, he decided to defer his trip to the Uttar Pradesh city.

Thackeray also said he has to undergo a surgery on June 1 and after recovering from it, he would again address a public meeting.

The MNS president said when he had posted the message about deferring his Ayodhya visit, many people were happy, while some did not like it. “I was watching things which were being discussed after I had announced the Ayodhya visit. Later, I got to know that it is a trap. It started in Maharashtra,” he claimed.

Arts & Commerce : Both Boys & Girls RJHSS, Dimapur re-introduces Co-Education (Boys and Girls) in Class – 11 (Arts) Stream W.e.f. academic session 2022. Forms & Prospectus are available at the School Office, in between 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m Sd/Principal dp-2319/22

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MUMBAI, MAY 22 (PTI): Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday slammed MNS chief Raj Thackeray’s claim that he had deferred his visit to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh as there was ploy to “trap” his party workers into legal issues, and said such comments were made out of frustration.

“Who can stop you from going to Ayodhya?

What conspiracy can be there?” Raut sought to know while talking to reporters here. It was a “BJP-sponsored” visit, the Shiv Sena’s chief spokesperson claimed, while noting that UP is governed by the saffron party.

“If there is opposition

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gineering institutes of the country.

According to the Union Education Ministry, under Direct Admission of Student Abroad (DASA) scheme, these students will be provided admission in top class institutes of the country.

Foreign students will be able to get admission in National Institute of Technology, National Institute of Information Technology, School of Planning and Architect and other technical institutions funded by the Central government.

These include Triple IT and NIT, which are considered to be the best educational institutions of engineering. However, this system will not be applicable in IITs. Despite the fact that IITs are excluded from DASA, still a large number of engineering institutions are offering these seats.

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Boy, pulled out from borewell in Punjab, dies in Dasuya subdivision.

The parents of the boy are migrant labourers.

Teams of the district administration, including De puty Commissioner Sandeep Hans, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were at the site. Medical teams were also deployed.

A camera was put inNational Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel form a cordon during a rescue side the borewell to monitor the boy’s condition, said operation of a young girl, who fell into a deep borewell, in Hoshiarpur, Sunday. (PTI) officials, adding that high CHANDIGARH, MAY 22 hours rescue operation died, officials said. oxygen flow was also pro(IANS): The six-year-old authorities said.

The boy climbed a vided through pipes. boy who was pulled out on The child, Hritik, was borewell shaft when stray Sunday from a 100-foot- immediately rushed to the dogs were chasing him. The deep abandoned borewell in hospital soon after he was shaft, covered with a jute a village in Punjab’s Hoshi- retrieved from the well bag, collapsed and the boy arpur district after eight- where he was declared dead, fell into the well in a village THAKURBARI, G.S. ROAD, DIMAPUR

eliminated by police. In December 2018, a special court in Mumbai had acquitted all the 22 accused, including 21 policemen in the case.

In the case of Ishrat Jahan, who was killed along with Javed Shaikh, Amjadali Akbarali Rana and Zeeshan Johar by Gujarat Police in an encounter near Ahmedabad in June 15, 2004, the police had claimed that the four were terrorists who were planning to assassinate then Gujarat Chief Minister Modi.

A high court-appointed Special Investigation Team concluded that the encounter of Ishrat Jahan was “fake”.However, a special court in Ahmedabad discharged three police officials in the case in March 2021. Ram Narayan Gupta alias ‘Lakhan Bhaiya’, who was allegedly an aide to gangster Chhota Rajan, was shot dead in 2006 by the Mumbai Police when he was picked up from Vashi and killed in a purportedly staged encounter in Versova.

8

Su doku

KAKURO

Rs 8.69 a litre and diesel by Rs 7.05 per litre following the government cutting excise duty on auto fuels to give relief to consumers battered by high fuel prices that have also pushed inflation to a record high.

On a similar note, Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, reacted to this decision by tweeting in Marathi which reads in English, “It is not right to pretend to increase prices first and then reduce rates nominally.”

Even the Biju Janta Dal (BJD), seen as friendly to the BJP, has dismissed the Centre’s call to states to reduce state taxes (VAT).

Odisha BJD MP Amar Patnaik said there was “limited scope” for the col-

RPP lauds Gov on removal of multiple check gates While appreciating the move, RPP also appealed to the governor to continue looking into the wellbeing of the people, as history had proven that successive State governments had on multiple occasions, failed to address the burning issues of Nagaland.

MICROBIOLOGY

No. 10279 Yesterday’s solution No. 10278

No. 4901 Yesterday’s solution No. 4900

No. 3925 Yesterday’s solution No. 3924

ACROSS 3 Whole range (5) 8 Artificial waterway (5) 10 Amphibians (5) 11 Small portion (3) 12 Cloth made of flax (5) 13 Civilian fighting force (7) 15 Elections (5) 18 Arrest (3) 19 Angelic being (6) 21 Ground (7) 22 Rabbit-like mammal (4) 23 Eight furlongs (4) 24 Judas (7) 26 Soldier on guard (6) 29 Permit (3) 31 TV, newspapers, etc.

(5) 32 Fundamental (7) 34 Viper (5) 35 Vehicle (3) 36 Liquid measure (5) 37 Flower part (5) 38 Gaseous element (5) DOWN 1 Nun’s costume (5) 2 Afternoon show (7) 4 Continent (4) 5 Irregular (6) 6 Male voice (5) 7 Soak in liquid (5) 9 Nothing (3) 12 Book collection (7) 14 Pitch (3) 16 Long-snouted mammal (5) 17 Woolly animal (5) 19 Alike (7) 20 Abyss (5) 21 Fashion (5) 23 Reasons (7) 24 Dealer, merchant (6) 25 Boy’s name (3) 27 Weird (5) 28 Jewelled headdress (5) 30 Trite (5) 32 Perform again (4) 33 Popular pet (3)

the Rs 100 per litre mark, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 27 criticised Opposition-ruled Maharashtra, West Bengal, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Jharkhand not reducing tax on petrol and appealed them to cut the duties to benefit the consumers. These state, however, haven’t cut taxes and argued that since it was the Centre which hiked the taxes in the first place, it was incumbent on it to lower the imposts.

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government stopped giving subsidies in May last year.

Taking cue from the Centre, which reduced taxes on petrol and diesel

by Rs 5 per litre and Rs 10 per litre, respectively, effective on November 5, 2021, as many as 22 states and Union Territories had cut their sales tax/VAT rates on the two fuels.

Though the state taxes are levied on an ad valorem basis as opposed to the Centre’s specific imposts, the tax cuts by the states/ UTs were up to Rs 8.7 per litre for petrol and Rs 9.52 per litre for diesel.

As the retail fuel prices came under pressure due to costlier crude and prices of went past

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In a series of tweets, Sitharaman said the the government was “committed to ensure that prices of essential items are kept under control”.

“Today, the world is passing through difficult times. Even as the world is recovering from Covid-19 pandemic, the Ukraine conf lict has brought in supply chain problems and shortages of various goods. This is resulting in inflation & economic distress in a lot of countries,” she said.

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tively impact various sectors, provide relief to our citizens and further ‘Ease of Living’.”

These fiscal steps will complement the monetary tightening initiated by the RBI in April meet and via a surprise rate hike on May 5. Retail inflation beat analysts’ expectations and surged to a 95-month high of 7.79% in April on a broadbased rise in price pressure across food, fuel and core segments, bolstering the chances of another round of aggressive rate hike by the central bank in June to break the back of inflation. Wholesale price inflation hit 15.08% in April, the highest since September 1991.

The party acknowledged that even though the people were presently living under a “failed system of governance”, the governor had given them a ray of hope when it was needed the most.

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(From p-1) RPP said that by removing the multiple check gates, the burden of unwarranted inflation upon the consumers of the State would also be reduced by a huge margin and in turn, improve the overall human development index.

Govt steps in to fight inflation: Excise duty on auto fuels cut sharply NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (AGENCIES): The minister said the excise cut will reduce the price of petrol by Rs 9.5 per litre and of diesel by Rs 7 per litre (inclusive of the state VAT relief). Prior to the excise cut (which came into immediate effect), of Saturday’s retail petrol price of Rs 105.41 per litre in Delhi, central excise accounted for Rs 27.9 per litre and state VAT, Rs 17.13 per litre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted after the FM’s announcements: “It is always people first for us! Today’s decisions, especially the one relating to a significant drop in petrol and diesel prices will posi-

lection of revenue for the states and that the states “already have a narrow revenue-raising space” in the form of Value Added Taxes.

“The Centre collects excise duty, additional excise duty and cess & surcharge on petrol and disease while the States collect only VAT. Therefore, the Centre has much more scope and space for reducing the tax, duty & cess component on these products and they have done that ostensibly to address the issue of rising inflation in the country affecting the common man and the poor who were reeling under its impact for several months now,” Patnaik told news agency ANI.

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Crossword

(From p-1) contractor from Dimapur to Atu Ghoki (Zubza River bridge), Niuland sector M/s VIPE Enterprise & Construction Ltd, the motorable foothill road contractors from Niuland to Ralan and Ralan Old to Doyang bridge and beyond, including Doyang bridge contractors M/s RK Constructions, M/s T Tachu & Co and M/s L Phukato Shohe & Sons, to expedite and improve the ongoing works soon so that the State governments’ entourage could ply on the road to Doyang bridge and beyond on the inauguration day.

(From p-1) Demanding answers from the government, Vallabh asked what is preventing the BJP government from announcing relief measures for the common people. “Why to resort to just optical delusion instead of concrete measures?” he said.

Will the BJP government guarantee that the excise duties on petrol and diesel will not increase for the next two years of their tenure, he asked.

Vallabh also questioned the government as to what measures are being taken to bring down the inflation to the lower end of the 2 to 6 per cent band set by the RBI. Petrol price on Sunday was slashed by

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(From p-1) One of the officials said the government may need to borrow additional sums from the market to fund these measures and that could mean a slippage from the its deficit target of 6.4 per cent of GDP for 2022-23.

The official did not quantify the amount of borrowing or fiscal slippage saying it depended on how much funds they eventually divert from the budget in the fiscal year.

The Government plans to borrow a record Rs. 14.31 lakh crore in the current fiscal year, according to budget announcements made in February. The other official said the additional borrowing will not impact the planned April-September borrowing of Rs. 8.45 lakh crore and may be undertaken in JanuaryMarch 2023.

NFHRCC appeals for early completion of ongoing works

and political gimmick: Opposition

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Centre to spend additional Rs. 2 lakh cr to check inflation: report

the cabinet secretary. EGOS consists of secretaries of 18 ministries as members and Head of Logistics Division, under the DPIIT, as member convenor.

NPG will clear the projects as all infrastructure projects would have to come here. The Technical Support Unit is also in place.

All the departments will approach the NPG first for approval before making a DPR (detailed project reports) at the planning stage, the official said, adding after the NPG’s clearance, the project would follow the normal procedure of approval by the finance ministry and the Cabinet, depending upon the projects.

For example, if railway is planning a project on a specified route, so by putting the relevant information on the the PM GatiShakti national master plan portal before finalising the DPR, it can see whether the proposed track is crossing through public land or private property or forest or canal or highways.

Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur and the southern part of Assam with the rest of the country. Tripura Food and Civil Supplies Department Director Tapan Kumar Das said that the state government has already approached the External Affairs Ministry to take up the matter with Bangladesh government to bring essentials and transport fuels including petrol to meet the requirement of the state.

In Aizawl, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs minister K. Lalrinliana said that the state government is considering the possibility of bringing in essential commodities via Bangladesh. “We have sought the approval of the External Affairs Ministry for transportation of essential goods through Bangladesh,” the minister said.

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constituted which has representations from various connectivity infrastructure ministries/departments involving their heads of network planning division for unified planning and integration of the proposals.

“We have created the national master plan digital platform. We have provided training to people concerned and now we have this mandatory provision from the finance ministry. So, now all logistics and connectivity projects will be approved on the principles of PM GatiShakti. All those projects, costing over Rs 500 crore will be considered by NPG,” the official said.

The DPIIT has conducted several training sessions with various government departments and held regional conferences across the states.

NPG consists of heads of the network planning wing of respective infrastructure ministries and it will assist the empowered group of secretaries (EGOS), which is headed by

(From p-1) Nagaon is the worst hit with almost 3.46 lakh people in distress, followed

by Cachar (over 2.29 lakh people) and Hojai (over 58,300 people). Tripura, Mizoram approach MEA to ferry essentials via Bangladesh: Tripura and Mizoram have approached the External Affairs Ministry to bring essential supplies and transport fuels via Bangladesh as the rail links have been cut off for the past nine days.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has cancelled all goods and passenger trains till June following unprecedented landslides triggered by uninterrupted rains in Assam’s Dima Hasao district. NFR’s LumdingBadarpur single line railway route via Dima Hasao mountainous district connects

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NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (PTI): All logistics and connectivity infrastructure projects, entailing investment of over Rs 500 crore, would now route through the network planning group (NPG) constituted under the PM GatiShakti initiative with the finance ministry issuing the necessary instructions, an official said.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has also created a national master plan digital platform.

The PM GatiShakti plan was announced last year with an aim to break departmental silos and bring in more holistic and integrated planning and execution of projects with a view to addressing the issues of multi-modal and last-mile connectivities.

This will help bring down the logistics cost and promote effective and efficient planning of infrastructure projects.

An integrated infrastructure network planning group (NPG) has been

Assam flood: Death toll climbs... Slash on fuel prices optical delusion

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NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

BUSINESS/STATE

Monkeypox in 12 countries, may spread globally: WHO NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (IANS): At least 92 monkeypox virus cases have been confirmed in 12 countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said, warning that the infection is likely to spread to more nations even as it expands surveillance.

The 12 countries -- the US, Canada, Australia, UK, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Italy and Sweden -- are not endemic for monkeypox virus, meaning the virus is not typically found unlike some countries in Central and West Africa.

While so far no deaths have been reported, about 28 cases in these countries are potential cases. Investigations are going on to confirm them, the global health agency said.

“As of May 21, 92 laboratory confirmed cases, and 28 suspected cases of monkeypox with investigations ongoing, have been reported to WHO from 12 Member States that are not endemic for monkeypox virus, across three WHO regions,” the WHO said in a statement.

“No associated deaths have been reported to date.

The situation is evolving and WHO expects there will be more cases of monkeypox identified as surveillance expands in nonendemic countries,” the agency said.

The WHO said that the identification of confirmed and suspected cases of monkeypox with no direct travel links to an endemic area “represents a highly unusual event”.

Surveillance to date in non-endemic areas has been limited, but is now expanding, and the WHO expects that acemore cases in non-endemic areas will be reported”.

Available information suggests that human-tohuman transmission is oc-

9

INTERNATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

curring among people in close physical contact with cases who are symptomatic.

But the “cases have mainly but not exclusively been identified amongst men who have sex with men (MSM)”.

To curb the spread, it stressed on the need for “immediate actions focuses on informing those who may be most at risk for monkeypox infection with accurate information”.

The UN health body stated that current available evidence suggests that those who are most at risk are those who have had close physical contact with someone with monkeypox, while they are symptomatic.

This is in regards with UK and Spain, which has seen cases associated with

gay and bisexual men, prompting health authorities to urged gay and bisexual men to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact a sexual health service without delay.

The WHO said it is also working to provide guidance to protect frontline health care providers and other health workers who may be at risk such as cleaners.

Further, so far all cases whose samples were confirmed by PCR have been identified as being infected with the West African strain.

Genome sequence from a swab sample from a confirmed case in Portugal, indicated a close match of the monkeypox virus causing the current outbreak, to exported cases from Nigeria to the United Kingdom, Israel and Singapore in 2018 and 2019.

Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals) with symptoms very similar to those seen in the past in smallpox patients, although it is clinically less severe.

Belgium first country to introduce compulsory monkeypox quarantine

ANTWERP, MAY 22 (IANS): Belgium has become the first country to introduce a compulsory 21day monkeypox quarantine -- as 14 countries now confirm outbreaks of the viral disease and doctors warn of a ‘significant rise’ in UK cases, the media reported.

Those who contract the virus will now have to self-isolate for three weeks, Belgian health authorities have said, after three cases were recorded in the country.

The infections, the first of which was recorded on Friday, are all linked to a festival in the port city of Antwerp, the Daily Mail reported.

It comes as doctors have warned that the UK faces a ‘significant’ rise in infections and the government’s response is ‘critical’ in containing its spread.

Dr. Claire Dewsnap, president of the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV, has also said the outbreak could have a

‘massive impact’ on access to sexual health services in Britain.

Another 11 Britons had tested positive for the virus, taking the total to 20.

The cases include a British child currently in a critical condition at a London hospital, while a further 100 infections have been recorded in Europe.

The rare viral infection, which people usually pick up in the tropical areas of west and central Africa, can be transmitted by very close contact with an infected person. It is usually mild, with most patients recovering within a few weeks without treatment.

However, the disease can prove fatal with the strain causing the current outbreak killing one in 100 infected. The disease, which was first found in monkeys, can be transmitted from person to person through close physical contact -- as well as sexual intercourse, Daily Mail reported.

Imran Khan again praises India for reducing fuel prices ISLAMABAD, MAY 22 (PTI): Pakistan’s ousted prime minister Imran Khan has once again praised India for reducing fuel prices with the help of “discounted oil” from Russia, saying this is what his government was working to achieve with the help of an “independent foreign policy.”

The Indian government on Saturday cut excise duty on petrol by a record Rs 8 per litre and that on diesel by Rs 6 per litre to give relief to consumers battered by high fuel prices that have also pushed inflation to a record high.

It also decided to give Rs 200 per cylinder subsidy to Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries for 12 cylinders in a year.

Khan tagged a South Asia Index report in his tweet which said that “after buying discounted oil from Russia, the Indian government reduced petrol price by 9.5 rupees per litre, Diesel price has also been reduced by 7 rupees per litre.”

Taking to Twitter, the 69-year-old cricketer-turned-politician said:

Imran Khan

“Despite being part of the Quad, India sustained pressure from the US and bought discounted Russian oil to provide relief to the masses.

“This is what our government was working to achieve with the help of an independent foreign policy”.

India, the world’s third-biggest oil-consuming and importing nation, has in recent weeks snapped few cargoes available from Russia at deep discounts as part of its plans to diversify its import basket.

In another tweet, Khan said: “Pakistan’s interest was supreme but unfortunately the local Mir Jafars & Mir Sadiqs bowed to external pressure, forcing a regime change and are now running around like a headless chicken with the economy in a tailspin”.

cases Bangkok votes for Gov in 1st election since 2014 coup Fuel delivery will be suspended if Monkeypox to ‘be concerned transporters are threatened: SL min about’, says Biden COLOMBO, MAY 22 (PTI): The Sri Lankan government has warned that it will suspend the delivery of fuel if transporters are threatened, after an angry mob torched a petrol pump owner’s house in the country’s North Central Province. Spontaneous protests have been reported at the filling stations across the country where consumers have been waiting in long serpentine queues for fuel for hours on end.

Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera said if the public continues to threaten the truckers delivering the fuel, then the government will have to suspend fuel deliveries for the safety of the transport workforce.

“It has been reported that organised groups are preventing fuel trucks to pass certain areas demand-

Kanchana Wijesekera

ing they be unloaded at different fuel stations and threatening to set fire to them. If this continues, we will have to suspend deliveries for the safety of the transport workforce,” he tweeted on Friday.

On Saturday, the residence of a fuel station owner and dealer in Anuradhapura, situated in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, was torched by an irate mob after the station ran out of fuel.

Citing obstructions

and threat calls, the Ceylon Petroleum Private Tanker Owners’ Association on Sunday requested police protection while transporting fuel, online portal the Daily Mirror reported.

Wijesekara conducted an inspection of the Kolonnawa Oil Storage Terminal here on Saturday to monitor the fuel distribution plans, Newsfirst Channel reported.

The minister also held discussions with military officers who were supervising the activities and the arrangements were made to inform the petrol station owners about the movement of the bowsers and to beef up their security, the report said. Wijesekera said that a ship carrying petrol had begun unloading in Colombo port on Saturday night, and another ship carrying petrol is scheduled to arrive on May 25.

PYEONGTAEK (SOUTH KOREA), MAY 22 (AP): President Joe Biden said Sunday that recent cases of monkeypox that have been identified in Europe and the United States were something “to be concerned about”. In his first public comments on the disease, Biden added: “It is a concern in that if it were to spread it would be consequential.” The president was asked about the disease as he spoke to reporters at Osan Air Base in South Korea, where he visited troops before taking off for Japan to continue his first trip to Asia as president.

“They haven’t told me the level of exposure yet but it is something that everybody should be concerned about,” Biden said. He added that work was underway to determine what vaccine might be effective.

BA N G KO K , M AY 2 2 (AP): Voters in the Thai capital headed to the polls Sunday to elect a new governor in a contest delayed by a military coup that still reflects a divided country with main candidates either supported by the conservative establishment or the liberal opposition.

A record 31 candidates entered the race, but the battle being watched most closely is between two who registered as independents.

One is former Transport Minister Chadchart Sittipunt, a front-runner, and the other Asawin Kwanmuang, who served as the military-appointed governor since 2016. He stepped down in March to contest the election.

The candidates campaigned on issues including congestion, pollution and persistent flooding. There are 4.4 million registered voters in the city, the coun-

Thai people cast their ballots in Bangkok’s gubernatorial election at a polling station in Bangkok, May 22. (AP)

try’s biggest. Apart from governor, they’re also electing city council members.

Bangkok’s last gubernatorial election was in 2013, a year before the military toppled a democratically elected government.

Neither the main opposition party in Parliament, Pheu Thai, nor the ruling Palang Pracharath party, associated with the military and the ruling conserva-

Rahul Gandhi connects Congress workers in UK to Sonia Gandhi to their views and concerns.

IOC UK President Kamal Dhaliwal and other team members present at the meeting urged him to take over the party’s presidency so the Congress can “come into power under his leadership”.

“In a surprise move, Rahul Gandhi ji connected IOC team members to Sonia Gandhi ji over the phone, during which Mrs Gandhi motivated all the team members to work hard for the party and win the upcoming

Rahul Gandhi

elections,” IOC UK said in a statement.

IOC Telangana team members, spokesperson Sudhakar Goud and general secretary Gampa Venugopal, expressed their grati-

tude to the party president for the formation of the state in 2014 and Sonia Gandhi called on them to “work hard to win the Telangana state elections”.

While Telangana is scheduled for Assembly polls next year, the next general election in India will take place in 2024.

During his meeting with overseas workers, Rahul Gandhi is said to have reiterated his stance that the party is geared up for an ideological fight in India.

Critical to resolve all outstanding disputes: China-Pak FMs BEIJING, MAY 22 (PTI): Pakistan’s newly-appointed Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Sunday in Guangzhou city and emphasised that “it is critical to resolve all outstanding disputes” in South Asia in view of the challenges faced by the people due to the pandemic, soaring commodity prices, climate change and poverty.

This is Bilawal’s maiden visit to China after he took over as foreign minister following the fall of the Imran Khan-led government last month.

While reaffirming their strong support for each other’s “core interests”, both sides reiterated that a peaceful and prosperous South Asia was in the common interest of all parties, said a joint statement issued at

Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Sunday in Guangzhou city.

the end of their meeting held in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou as Beijing is currently under semi-lockdown to contain the fast-spreading Omicron variant of the COVID-19.

“Given the challenges faced by the peoples of the region, due to global pan-

demic, soaring commodity prices, climate change and poverty, it is critical to resolve all outstanding disputes to promote regional cooperation and advance the goals of lasting peace, stability and shared prosperity,” Pakistan state-run APP news agency quoted

the joint statement as saying.

While it said Bilawal has “briefed the Chinese side about the latest developments in Jammu and Kashmir”, the reference to all “outstanding disputes” raised speculation whether it also alluded to the border dispute between India and China, especially the current over two year long military standoff at Eastern Ladakh.

“The two sides underlined the importance of the peaceful resolution of the dispute based on the UN Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements,” it said, apparently referring to the Kashmir issue.

The two sides discussed the latest developments in Afghanistan and agreed that peace and stability in Afghanistan was vital for regional development and prosperity, it said.

“He said we are not fighting against any one political organisation but against a harmful ideology and to protect the institutions of the country,” an IOC UK spokesperson said.

IOC UK vice-president Gurminder Randhawa updated the Congress leader of the women’s wing’s activities in UK as well as a stock take of recently held state elections in Punjab as part of what was described as a “positive and interactive session” with the IOC

UK team.

During his UK visit, Rahul Gandhi addressed the Ideas for India conference on Friday, attended by other Opposition members including CPI(M)’s Sitaram Yechury, RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav and TMC’s Mahua Moitra.

“Democracy in India is a global public good. We’re the only people who have managed democracy at our unparalleled scale,” he said at the event organised by think tank Bridge India.

LOGWESUNYU VILLAGE COUNCIL CLARIFIES The attention of the Lowesunyu Village Council is drawn to the Yankeli Village Council (Y.V.C) resolution which appeared at page no. 9 in Nagaland Post on 17th May 2022 wherein, the YVC extended its appreciation and congratulations to Tseminyu on being upgraded to a full-fledged District. We extend our gratefulness to the Yankeli Village Council for extending its appreciation and congratulations. We are however, baffled by its statement to stand and live by the boundary demarcation as was originally demarcated by the then D.C to Naga Hills, J.H. Hutton (possibly referring to J.H. Hutton) which is not correct.

It may be noted that the representatives to D.C of Wokha and Kohima, Shri. E.T. Sunup SDO (C) and D. S Thapa SDO (C) Sadar respectively had settled the long standing dispute that existed between Yankeli and Tsosinyu / Logwesunyu Village on 22nd December 1978, which had superseded all earlier claim and counter-claim between us. We still honour that agreement though a large area of our ancestral land was sacrificed in the course of our quest for peaceful co-existence with our neighbor.

It is our fervent hope that all stakeholders will honour the settlement which was made as referred above with the Village Leaders of both parties and designated authorities of Kohima and Wokha districts. Let us refrain from digging the past and dilute the settled issue in the interest of all.

-sd(GWARUNO KATH) G.B Logwesunyu Village Council

dp-2355/22

LONDON, MAY 22 (PTI): Congress president Sonia Gandhi has called on overseas party workers in the UK to work hard to help the Opposition win the upcoming elections, after Rahul Gandhi connected members of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) UK with his mother in a “surprise” phone call during his ongoing London visit.

Rahul Gandhi met IOC UK team members on Saturday to discuss partyrelated matters and listen

-sd(JOSHUA SEB) CHAIRMAN Logwesunyu Village Council

tive establishment, officially have candidates on the ballot. However, 55-year-old Chadchart is seen by both supporters and opponents as a proxy for Pheu Thai, for which he stood as a prime ministerial candidate in the 2019 general election. He served as transport minister in a Pheu Thai government in 2012-2014.

H i s m a i n r iva l i s 71-year-old Asawin, who

was appointed governor in 2016 by Prayuth Chanocha. As army commander, Prayuth seized power in the 2014 coup to lead a military regime, and he dismissed the previous governor over corruption allegations. Prayuth was returned to office following the 2019 election as prime minister in a coalition government.

Prayuth, in power for eight years, is expected soon to face a no-confidence motion in Parliament, and rivals on his own side have long been rumored to be seeking to remove him.

Even if he survives, there must be a general election by early next year.

Prayuth was able to rule by decree as head of a military government but has struggled within the limits of parliamentary democracy, taking fire especially for fumbling Thailand’s coronavirus vaccination program and recovery plan.

APPRECIATION

I, Merenzungba Longkumer, warmly give my heartful thanks and appreciation to all the individuals, organisations and unions who have been so supportive towards me spiritually, morally, physically and financially throughout my pageant show that was held at Mumbai on 13th May 2022. Also, I thank everyone for your constant prayers for making me come this far to achieve the title of "Mr India International 2022" I regret my inability to thank everyone individually but here are few of the organisations and well-wishers to whom I would like to convey my gratitude:1. Chümoukedima police Baptist Church.

2. Seiurü-zha Colony Council.

3. Seiurü-zha Colony Youth Society.

4. Chümoukedima Yaongyimsen Union.

5. Chümoukedima Yaongyimsen Tetsur Telongjem.

6. C h ü m o u k e d i m a Ya o n g y i m s e n K a k e t s h i r Telongjem.

7. Chümoukedima Ao Student Union.

8. Chümoukedima Ao Senso Telongjem.

9. Chümoukedima Ao Lanur Telongjem 10. Chümoukedima Langpangkong Senso Telongjem.

11. Chümoukedima Watsu Telongjem.

12. Chümoukedima Town Youth Organisation.

13. Chümoukedima Town Women Organisation 14. Chümoukedima Town Student Union 15. Chümoukedima Chamber of Commerce 16. Chümoukedima Kelingmen Fellowship 17. dimapur Yaongyimsen Senso Telonjem 18. dimapur Yaongyimsen Kaketshir Telongjem 19. dimapur Yaongyimsen Tetsur Telongjem 20. dimapur Yaongyimsen Longküm Sayir Elangtsur Telongjem.

21. dimapur Ao Lanur Telongjem 22. Yaongyimsen Reongsanger Tatar Meden.

23. Mr dimapur Organiser (Meraki Entertainment).

24. Shri. M.Chuba Ao (National Vice-president BJp) 25. Shri. Imnatiba (Horn’ble Advisor, Industries & Commerce Labour & Employment, Skill development & Entrepreneurship) 26. Easter Gyan doley & Friends 27. Sir. Vibu doze & Family 28. Sir. Alobo Naga 29. Brother Soyim Longkumer 30. Sister Amen Walling & Family 31. Toshizen Longkumer & Lanu Jamir Lastly, keep showering me with love and continue to support me on my next upcoming pageant show “Mr World Heritage 2022" which is going to be held in the month of June-2022. dp-2357/22

INFOTAINMENT

10

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

Top 5 lifestyle changes to improve your cholesterol Lil Nas X to be honoured at 2022 Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony H L igh cholesterol increases your risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Medications can help improve your cholesterol. But if you’d rather first make lifestyle changes to improve your cholesterol, try these five healthy changes.

If you already take medications, these changes can improve their cholesterol-lowering effect.

1. Eat heart-healthy foods A few changes in your diet can reduce cholesterol and improve your heart health: Reduce saturated fats.

Saturated fats, found primarily in red meat and fullfat dairy products, raise your total cholesterol. Decreasing your consumption of saturated fats can reduce your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol — the “bad” cholesterol.

Eliminate trans fats.

Trans fats, sometimes listed on food labels as “partially hydrogenated vegetable oil,”

are often used in margarines and store-bought cookies, crackers and cakes. Trans fats raise overall cholesterol levels. The Food and Drug Administration has banned the use of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils by Jan. 1, 2021.

Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids don’t affect LDL cholesterol. But they have other heart-healthy benefits, including reducing blood pressure. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, herring, walnuts and flaxseeds.

Increase soluble fiber.

Soluble fiber can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream.

Soluble fiber is found in such foods as oatmeal, kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples and pears.

Add whey protein.

Whey protein, which is found in dairy products, may account for many of the health benefits attributed

to dairy. Studies have shown that whey protein given as a supplement lowers both LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol as well as blood pressure.

2. Exercise on most days of the week and increase your physical activity Exercise can improve cholesterol. Moderate physical activity can help raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol. With your doctor’s OK, work up to at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week or vigorous aerobic activity for 20 minutes three times a week.

Adding physical activity, even in short intervals several times a day, can help you begin to lose weight.

Consider:  Taking a brisk daily walk during your lunch hour  Riding your bike to work  Playing a favorite sport  To stay motivated, consider finding an exercise

buddy or joining an exercise group.

3. Quit smoking Quitting smoking improves your HDL cholesterol level. The benefits occur quickly: Within 20 minutes of quitting, your blood pressure and heart rate recover from the cigarette-induced spike Within three months of quitting, your blood circulation and lung function begin to improve Within a year of quitting, your risk of heart disease is half that of a smoker 4. Lose weight Carrying even a few extra pounds contributes to high cholesterol. Small changes add up. If you drink sugary beverages, switch to tap water. Snack on airpopped popcorn or pretzels — but keep track of the calories. If you crave something sweet, try sherbet or candies with little or no fat, such as jelly beans.

Look for ways to in-

NASA suspends routine spacewalks due to leaky spacesuit helmet

A

fter finding water in an astronaut’s helmet, NASA has suspended all, except the most urgent spacewalks, the agency officials have announced.

Wa t e r wa s f o u n d in the helmet worn by European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Matthias Maurer following a March 23 spacewalk, Space.com reported.

Maurer reported about 20 to 25 centimetres of water in a very thin layer, covering the helmet’s inner surface.

Although the suit sometimes does generate a bit of water, but “this was a bit beyond what our normal experience faces. It was specifically the quantity of water that got our attention,” Dana Weigel, deputy station programme manager at NASA’s Johnson Space Centre in Houston, said during a press conference this week.

The agency officials said they will perform an assessment of its extravehicular mobility unit (EMU) spacesuits, which will return to Earth in July.

It means the astronauts will not be able to go outside and perform extravehicular activities

Tom Cruise says landing ‘Top Gun’ role was lifechanging for him

(EVAs) for several months unless there is a pressing need for repairs on the International Space Station, the report said.

“Until we understand better what the causal factors might have been during the last EVA with our EMU, we are no-go for nominal EVA,” Weigel said.

Meanwhile, the recent SpaceX’s Crew-4 mission and Boeing’s uncrewed Orbital Flight Test-2 have carried More helmet absorption pads to the orbiting lab. These may help in case the astronauts need to repair something in space before the investigation

concludes, Weigel said.

“We have supplemental ... very thin kind of absorptive pads that we can put on the inside of the helmet,” Weigel said. “One of them is towards the back of the crew headset, and the other one is kind of a band that goes up over the head. [It’s] kind of like in the shape of a headband, but it’s attached to the inner layer of the helmet bubble.

And so that would offer some mitigation.”

This is, however, not the first incident where spacewalks have been suspended due to unexpected water leakage.

It occurred for the

first time in July 2013, when ESA astronaut Luca Parmitano experienced a severe water leak that ended up covering most of his face. His spacewalk with NASA’s Chris Cassidy was cut short due to the water volume Parmitano was reporting, roughly an hour after starting the work, the report said.

NASA ultimately determined that the materials intruded “because a water filtering facility at Johnson [Space Centre] had not been managed to control for silica,” NASA’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) wrote in April 2017.

“As a result,” the OIG continued, “silica-laden water was used in the processing of flight hardware filters that later was used in four on-orbit spacesuits.”

The agency addressed the silica situation and also created backups for astronauts in case of leaks.

Starting in 2014, astronauts used a “helmet absorption pad” at the back of the helmet to absorb excess water. In addition, a breathing tube was inserted in the helmet in case of water clinging to the face, as it tends to do in microgravity.

(IANS)

corporate more activity into your daily routine, such as using the stairs instead of taking the elevator or parking farther from your office.

Take walks during breaks at work. Try to increase standing activities, such as cooking or doing yardwork.

5. Drink alcohol only in moderation Moderate use of alcohol has been linked with higher levels of HDL cholesterol — but the benefits aren’t strong enough to recommend alcohol for anyone who doesn’t already drink.

If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means up to one drink a day for women of all ages and men older than age 65, and up to two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger.

Too much alcohol can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart failure and strokes.

(By Mayo Clinic Staff)

il Nas X is set to be honoured at 2022 Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony next month.

On June 16 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City, the rapper and pop star will become the latest recipient of the Hal David Starlight Award, which is awarded to “gifted young songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry via their original songs.”

Others to have previously won the award in the past include Drake, Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Halsey, John Legend and more.

Nile Rodgers, chair of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, said: “Lil Nas X is someone we are very proud to award the Hal David Starlight Award to.

He has perhaps better than anyone demonstrated how powerful great songs are,

with ‘Old Town Road’ and ‘Montero’ dominating the charts for almost every day of the last three years.

“If you’re lucky enough to be alive at this time, you know exactly who Lil Nas X is and he’s an incredible and inspirational person for every one of his communities as well.”

Last month, Lil Nas

X announced that he’ll be heading out on the road, with some European tour dates scheduled for the end of the year.

His ‘Long Live Montero’ tour is set to kick off in North America at The Fillmore in Detroit on September 6, and will make stops in Chicago, Nashville, Los Angeles and more before wrapping up in San Francisco at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium on October 23.

The ‘Industry Baby’ hitmaker will then head out to Europe for a run of dates, starting in Amsterdam on November 8, taking in shows in Berlin, Hamburg, Paris, Brussels and ending in Barcelona, Spain on November 17.

Among the European dates, Lil Nas X will head to London for a one-off UK show at Eventim Apollo on November 12. (NME)

Ukrainian director denounces Russian presence at Cannes

U

krainian director D my t r o S u k h o lytkyy-Sobchuk criticised the Cannes Film Festival for including a Russian director in its line-up, as the debut filmmaker’s “Pamfir” was shown at Cannes’ Directors Fortnight on Saturday.

The festival has banned official Russian delegations from attending, but Russian dissident Kirill Serebrennikov, who has spoken out against the invasion of Ukraine, premiered his

in-competition film “Tchaikovsky’s Wife” at the festival on Wednesday.

“When he’s here, he is part of the Russian propaganda, and they can use him,” Sukholytkyy-Sobchuk told Reuters on Saturday.

The Russian director had said earlier this week that Russian culture should not be boycotted, saying that Russian culture “has always promoted human values.”

The Ukrainian director described the sensation of being in Cannes while

his country fights against a Russian invasion as “alien”.

“Everything what’s happened here, it’s something that would not belong in Ukraine - the peaceful life... We have (an) opposite reality,” he said.

Set in the forests of

western Ukraine’s Chernivtsi region, “Pamfir” begins with the return of a father, Leonid, to his family after months of working in Poland. A church fire attributed to Leonid’s son Nazar forces the father to take up a quick smuggling job, angering the local contraband boss. With references to Greek tragedy and the bible story of Abraham and Isaac, the story of fighting for redemption has resonance with the ongoing conflict.

(Reuters)

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H

ollywood star Tom Cruise says landing the role of Navy pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in ‘Top Gun’ was “lifechanging.”

The Hollywood star had always dreamt of being either a pilot or an actor growing up, and when he could combine both careers in one film, it was a big thrill for him, reports aceshowbiz. com. The 59-year-old actor told HELLO! magazine: “All I ever wanted to be was a pilot or an actor, so ‘Top Gun’ was a huge moment in so many respects, including my passion for aviation.”

He further gushed, “It was life-changing for me.”

“I got to actually fly in an F-14 jet which was a dream come true, and play a character I loved in Maverick,” Cruise shared.

For the latest movie in the blockbuster series, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’, he got to do more plane stunts than ever before. (IANS)

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Leipzig beat Freiburg to lift German Cup

Leipzig players celebrate with the German Soccer Cup trophy at the end of the final match RB Leipzig won against SC Freiburg, and at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin. (AP/PTI)

B E R L I N, M AY 2 2 (IANS): Leipzig came from behind despite a numerical disadvantage, shocking passive Freiburg 4-2 (1-1) on penalties to clinch their first-ever title in the club history following the 79th German Cup final at Berlin Olympia stadium.

Both teams started highly motivated in the encounter on Saturday night, yet the spectators had to wait until the 14th minute to see the first clear-cut chance as Emil Forsberg tested Freiburg goalkeeper Mark Flekken from a tight angle.

The opener was scored at the other end of the pitch five minutes later when Maximilian Eggestein hammered a loose ball from the edge of the box past Leipzig custodian Peter Gulacsi, Xinhua reports. Leipzig should have levelled the scores in the

24th minute but Christopher Nkunku couldn’t take advantage of Nicolas Hofler’s misplaced pass.

After the restart, the ‘Red Bulls’ started where they left off as Nkunku’s turn shot forced Flekken into action once again in the 50th minute.

Leipzig’s game suffered a heavy setback in the 57th minute when Marcel Halstenberg committed a professional foul to receive his marching orders.

Freiburg gained momentum and pushed forward but Vincenzo Grifo, as well as Roland Sallai, rattled only the side netting in quick succession at the hour mark.

However, as the match progressed, Freiburg reduced their offensive actions and got flabbergasted by resilient Leipzig, who restored parity through Nkunku out of thin air.

Te n - m a n L e i p z i g sparked to life and pressed

uninspired Freiburg on the back foot.

The ‘Breisgauers’ defended deep in their territory and had a lot of work to reach the overtime.

I n t h e o v e r t i m e, Freiburg assumed control again and squared two promising opportunities by substituting Yannick Haberer against smart defending Leipzig.

However, after 120 minutes and a 1-1 stalemate the penalty shoot-out had to bring the decision.

Ten-man Leipzig kept their nerves from the spot and snatched the title as Freiburg’s Christian Gunter and Ermedin Demirovic couldn’t convert their penalties. “This is nuts. We played over 60 minutes with 10 men and staged a terrible performance in the first half. It is unbelievable.

This is the first title in our club history,” said Leipzig’s sporting director Oliver Mintzlaff.

French Open: Linette ousts Jabeur in 1st-round upset

PARIS, MAY 22 (IANS): Poland’s Magda Linette knocked out No 6 seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-5 in the opening match of the French Open, here on Sunday.

World No 56 Linette was only 2-16 against Top 10 opponents coming into

the match, and she had lost to Jabeur in the Roland Garros third round last year. But this time, Linette pulled off a comeback against Jabeur, who won the WTA 1000 Madrid title earlier this month.

Both of Linette’s previous Top 10 wins also

came at Grand Slam events (including over the thenWorld No 1 Ashleigh Barty at last year’s Roland Garros via retirement), and she grabbed another upset at a major after 2 hours and 28 minutes of play.

Jabeur had won 17 matches on clay this sea-

J A K A RTA , M AY 2 2 (IANS): Defending champions India will open their campaign in Asia Cup hockey in a high-octane clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Monday at the GBK Arena, the same venue as the Asian Games Jakarta in 2018.

The opening day will also witness Malaysia take on Oman, who are riding on the success of their Asian Games Qualifier in Thailand a fortnight ago, while Asian Champions Trophy title holders South Korea will play Bangladesh in Pool B matches. Japan, who are also the reigning Asian Games champions, will take on hosts Indonesia.

In the previous edition, which is also the World Cup qualifier, India had defeated Malaysia 2-1 in the final held in Dhaka. India and Pakistan have won the tournament 3 times each, while South Korea is the most successful team, having clinched the title four times in 10 previous editions.

Nagaland State team at Bhubaneswar Odisha to participate at 13th KIIT International Chess festival 2022 from May 22 to 29. Four persons namely Mughaho Awomi, Rajashekara N, Sukhavi Achumi and Toikhu Awomi are participating in the event.

In Loving Memory 1st Death Anniversary of Lt. Nyimchamo Ngullie 14.03.1951 - 23.05.2021

son, far ahead of everyone else on tour (Amanda Anisimova and Ekaterina Alexandrova are tied for second place with 10 claycourt match-wins apiece in 2022). Along with her Madrid title, Jabeur reached finals in Charleston and Rome.

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Dominic Thiem

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India take on Pakistan in Asia Cup hockey opener

FIRST DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Thiem crashes out at first hurdle at French Open

PARIS, MAY 22 (AGENCIES): Twice French Open finalist Dominic Thiem crashed out of the tournament in the first round on Sunday, losing in straight sets to Bolivian world number 87 Hugo Dellien.

Austrian Thiem, who has failed to win a match at any of the tournaments he has played since his wrist injury comeback in March, made 42 unforced errors as his once dominant claycourt game deserted him. “It was not a good match at all but it is what it is,” Thiem, ranked third in the world in 2021 compared to his current 194th, told reporters. “I knew it would take time and the level is extremely high. It is going to take a few more months until I say now I am ready to beat those guys again.”

The 28-year-old struggled with his forehand throughout the match and said it was now time to compete in lower-tier tournaments to get match wins under his belt.

“The problem is in practice it is really decent but a match situation is something different, Grand Slam especially. I am definitely thinking to go back to Challenger level for one or two tournaments,” he said.

“I am more tight, more nervous and the whole body gets more tight. This is toxic to my forehand because I am still missing the fine feeling there,” he said.

Dellien, comfortable on the surface after battling through the qualifiers to reach the main draw in all five claycourt tournaments preceding Paris, did not have to wait long for his chance.

He ear ned his first break point in Thiem’s opening service game and broke him on his second to race through the first set.

Two quick breaks in the second wrapped it up for Dellien, with Thiem, who injured his wrist in Mallorca in 2021 and required surgery, struggling throughout.

He capitulated 6-3 6-2 6-4 in just over two hours.

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SPORTS

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

08/05/1982 – 23/05/2021 Late Mrs. Yanbeni Kikon Across the bridge there’s no more sorrow Across the bridge there’s no more pain The sun will shine across the river And you’ll never be unhappy again.

We miss you so much MOM. - Loving Husband and Children

Deeply missed but never forgotten.

You’re forever in our hearts.

Until we meet again!

“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live” John 11: 25 -Loving Wife, Children & Grandchildren db-457/22

2ND Death Anniversary Of Our Beloved

Late TOKHEHO ACHUMI

dp-2321/22

20.02.1950 to 23.05.2020 Not a day passes by without something or someone reminding us of you.

Your death has left us bereft and this void can never be filled.

We miss you greatly. dp-2312/22

dp-2345/22

Loving Wife, children, in-laws and grandchildren.

K Y M C

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SPORTS

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR MONDAY, MAY 23, 2022

City fight back to win Premier PBKS beat Sunrisers by 5 wkts to finish 6th Man League title; Spurs take fourth

Earlier, Punjab Kings bowlers showed a lot of discipline, restricting SRH to 157 for 8 in 20 overs.

Arshdeep Singh (0/25 in 4 overs) celebrated his maiden India call-up with another parsimonious spell but it was his state team colleague Harpreet Brar (3/26 in 4 overs), who was the pick of the bowlers with wickets of Priyam Garg, Rahul Tripathi and Aiden Markram. With four qualifiers already decided on Saturday, there was little more than academic interest left

in the game and the ‘Orange Army’ in fact looked jaded and more like going through the motions while batting before sprucing up their scores in the final few overs.

SRH’s best batter of the season, Abhishek Sharma (43 off 32 balls) once again got a start but should have converted it into a big one which didn’t happen.

A solemn looking Tripathi (20) did cross a personal milestone of 400 runs for the season but disappointment of not making it to the national team was

writ large in his body language as he failed to connect the big hits.

Brar didn’t do anything extraordinary and kept it mostly on the stumps, stifling the opposition batters for runs.

It was left to Romario Shepherd (26 not out off 15 balls) and Washington Sundar (25 off 19 balls) to take the Sunrisers past the 150-run mark, as both of them used the long handle to good effect in their 58-run sixth-wicket partnership off only 4.5 overs.

In fact, 50-plus runs came in the last four overs as Nathan Ellis (3/40 in 4 overs) erred in length despite a couple of back-toback wickets that he got in the bargain. Ellis did bowl a good hat-trick delivery which Bhuvneshwar Kumar averted only to get run-out of the very next delivery.

Brief scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 157/8 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 43, Romario Shepherd 26 not out; Nathan Ellis 3/41, Harpreet Brar 3/26) lost to Punjab Kings 160/5 in 15.1 overs (Liam Livingstone 49 not out, Shikhar Dhawan 39; Fazalhaq Farooqui 2/32, Washington Sundar 1/19) by five wickets

Fast start helps Lyon down Barca to win Women’s Champions League

Verstappen leads F1 with win in Spain, agony for Leclerc

Thomas Cup win will fill India’s youth with new enthusiasm and energy, says PM Modi

MUMBAI, MAY 22 (PTI): Punjab Kings ended their campaign on a winning note, crushing an already demoralised Sunrisers Hyderabad by five wickets in an inconsequential final IPL league match here on Sunday. Batting first, Sunrisers Hyderabad managed only 157 for 8 on a good batting track.

But it was never going to be enough as Liam Livingstone made mincemeat of a hapless SRH attack, scoring 49 not out off 22 balls, and also hitting the coveted 1000th six of the tournament.

Shikhar Dhawan (39 off 32 balls) and Jitesh Sharma (19 off 7 balls) also contributed handsomely to the team’s cause as the chase was completed in just 15.1 overs. Punjab Kings, who haven’t made the play-offs since their final appearance in 2014, finished sixth while the Sunrisers ended their high-spending IPL on eighth in the 10-team competition.

For Livingstone, it was all about smashing big sixes once again as he hit five in all, while Dhawan helped himself to two fours and two sixes. It was Jonny Bairstow (23 off 15 balls), who straightaway attacked Bhu-

Liam Livingstone of Punjab Kings plays a shot during the IPL match between the Sunrisers Hyderabad and the Punjab Kings, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. (PTI)

vneshwar Kumar and Washington Sundar, with a flurry of boundaries to set the tempo. It helped Dhawan to play his accumulating game as Punjab maintained their philosophy of all out attack even as Sunrisers dropped some sitters on the field.

Worst was Washington Sundar’s blooper when Livingstine tried to hit Jagadeesha Suchit against the turn and offered a dolly at point.

There were too many on-field bungles with Roamrio Shepherd’s 15th over going for 23 runs.

Olympique Lyonnais celebrate after winning Women’s CL.

TURIN (ITALY), MAY 22 (AGENCIES): Olympique Lyonnais beat Barcelona 3-1 in the Women’s Champions League final on Saturday with all the goals coming in the first half as midfielder Amandine Henry netted a brilliant solo goal and striker Ada Hegerberg scored one and made another.

Favourites Barca, who thumped Chelsea in the 2021 final after suffering defeat by Lyon in the 2019 decider, struggled to deal with the French side’s pressure in the opening 45 minutes, and by the time they found their feet it was too late.

On a sweltering night at the Juventus Stadium in Turin, Henry gave Lyon the lead with a stunning strike in the sixth minute, winning the ball and cutting inside on her right foot before firing a rocket from distance into the top corner.

Hegerberg added a second with a header in the 23rd and the Norway striker then teed up Catarina Macario to score Lyon’s third with a tap-in 10 minutes later as the Spaniards, who have only lost once all season, looked a shadow of themselves.

Alexia Putellas pulled one back for Barca before

the break and in the second half they came out all guns blazing, forcing Lyon back but struggling to make the most of their chances.

Patricia Guijarra stunning lob from inside the centre circle came back off the bar and substitute AnaMaria Crnogorcevic blazed a volley just wide with the goal at her mercy.

Boasting plenty of experience in their squad, Lyon succeeded in doing everything they could to take the pace out of the game and a tired Hegerberg almost added a second in stoppage time, volleying the ball against the near post.

The final whistle heralded Lyon’s eighth triumph in the competition after their last success in 2020, with France international Wendy Renard raising the trophy as fireworks exploded behind her.

With the club’s official Twitter account quickly welcoming the Champions League trophy home, Lyon coach Sonia Bompastor made history as the first to win the competition as both a player and a coach.

BARCELONA, MAY 22 (AGENCIES): Max Verstappen fought back from an early spin to win the Spanish Grand Prix after title rival Charles Leclerc retired from a dominant lead. It was Verstappen’s fourth victory in six races this year, helped by Red Bull imposing team orders on Sergio Perez.

It gives him the championship lead for the first time in 2022 and he heads to Monaco next weekend with a six-point advantage over Leclerc.

Mercedes’ George Russell took a strong third after a long and valiant attempt to hold Verstappen at bay early in the race.

And his team-mate Lewis Hamilton fought back to fifth place following a first-lap collision with Kevin Magnussen’s Haas, which gave the seven-time champion a puncture and dropped him to the back of the field.

Hamilton moved into fourth behind Russell with a move on Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz around the outside of Turn One with six laps to go.

NEW DELHI, MAY 22 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated the Indian men’s badminton team for winning the Thomas Cup, saying it was an epochal moment in the history of the sport in the country, and added that he could well understand the pressure the team would have withstood on way to winning gold.

India defeated 14-time champions and favourites Indonesia 3-0 in the final to lift their maiden Thomas Cup in Bangkok recently after previously reaching the semifinals in 1952, 1955, and 1979.

The Prime Minister had invited the Thomas Cup-winning team and the Uber Cup side following their heartening performances in badminton’s premier global team events, and the players enthusiastically shared their winning moments with Modi.

The PM said it was the fulfilment of the dream of 1.25 billion Indians, who have waited for seven decades for this moment, adding that it’s not a small achievement.

Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan celebrates scoring their third goal with Gabriel Jesus. (Reuters)

MANCHESTER, MAY 22 (AGENCIES): Manchester City won the Premier League title by a point from rivals Liverpool on the final day of the campaign after Pep Guardiola’s side survived a huge scare on Sunday.

City had to fight back from 2-0 down in the second half, but three goals in the space of five minutes -- including two from German substitute Ilkay

Gundogan set off the party, with fans pouring onto the field at the Etihad Stadium at the final whistle.

Liverpool had also found it hard to get their business done at Anfield against Wolverhampton Wanderers but late goals from Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson earned them a 3-1 win.

Tottenham Hotspur comfortably secured the fourth Champions League

Narendra Modi interacts with Indian badminton contingent for Thomas and Uber cup, during their felicitation ceremony. (PTI)

“The win will fill the youth of our country with new enthusiasm and energy. For a country of 1.25 billion people, it (winning the Thomas Cup) is the fulfilment of their dreams, a dream they have seen for seven decades... It’s not a small achievement,” said the PM. “You don’t know what you have achieved. When you meet with success on such a big stage, then the ecosystem of the sport in the country changes, the sports culture gets a massive boost, it fills the country with confidence,” added Modi.

Modi also said that the Indian women’s team

might have missed a medal in the Uber Cup this time around but he was confident they would definitely win it the next time around. The women’s team, which also included two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, lost to Thailand in the quarterfinals.

“We will wait but will also find ways to ensure that you (women’s team) win a medal (in Uber Cup). I am confident that we will not have to wait long, because I see that commitment and fire in you,” added Modi.

“Our women’s team has, time and again, shown how good they are as players. And I can see it very clearly that it’s only a matter

spot with a 5-0 win at relegated Norwich City while North London rivals Arsenal had to settle for fifth spot despite crushing Everton 5-1 at the Emirates Stadium. Burnley were relegated after they lost 2-1 at home to Newcastle United while Leeds United secured survival with a 2-1 victory at Brentford.

Norwich and Watford had already been relegated before the final day.

of time... if not this time, then certainly next time, you are the ones who will return home winners,” said Modi.

The Prime Minister also said that the new motto in India was, ‘Yes, we can do it’. “It has become the new strength of India and you (sportspersons) are the flagbearers of the movement.

Our competitors might be very strong, look invincible, but for us it is important that we know where we want to reach. This is the motto of our youth today.”

The Prime Minister said that the expectations of the country had gone up after the exploits of the shuttlers.

“You have to remember that the expectations have gone up after the triumph, and the pressure to perform will only increase, which is not a bad thing.

One should not succumb to pressure, we have to turn pressure into positive energy, our strength. And I am confident you will do it,” he added, as players like Kidambi Srikanth, Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy, among others, listened with rapt attention.

NBA: Adebayo stars for Bahrain 2022 para-badminton: Heat in win over Celtics Bhagat, Dhillon win two gold each

Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo (13) dunks against Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown.

B O S T O N, M AY 2 2 (AGENCIES): Bam Adebayo scored 31 points to help the Miami Heat beat the Boston Celtics 109-103 as his side took a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference play-off final in Boston.

Adebayo also managed 10 rebounds, six assists and four steals for his side.

The Celtics, who were 26 points behind at one stage, got to within a point at 93-92 behind late on but the Heat held on for a win on the road. Adebayo top scored for his side and his star per-

formance was needed by the Heat, who were without the influential Jimmy Butler for the second half because of a knee inflammation.

The Celtics committed 23 turnovers which led to 33 points for the Heat, who had eight turnovers.

Star player Jayson Tatum could only manage 10 points for the home side, with Jaylen Brown top scoring for them with 40 points.

Game four of the bestof-seven series is on Monday (01:30 BST Tuesday) in Boston.

M A NA M A , M AY 2 2 (IANS): Top para shuttlers Pramod Bhagat and Tarun Dhillon clinched two gold medals each as the Indian team ended with a rich haul of 23 medals including seven gold medals at the 1st Bahrain Para-Badminton International Championships 2022. Promising doubles shuttler Manisha Ramdass also shot into the limelight with her twin gold medal show, while Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan (WS SH6) and Dhinagaran Pandurangan and Sivarajan Solaimalai (Doubles SH6) claimed the other top honours for India.

Pairing up with a new partner, Bhagat turned the colour of his mixed doubles SL3-SU5 silver medal from Brazil into gold this time.

He and promising Manisha Ramdass got the better of Thailand’s Siripong Teamarrom and Nipada Saensupa 21-14, 21-11 to take the gold.

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic champion Bhagat then went on to take the men’s singles SL3 gold after England’s Daniel Bethell gave a walkover. In the

Tarun Dhillon, Pramod Bhagat and Manisha Ramdass.

men’s SL4 events, Dhillon, who missed out on a medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, first paired with Nitesh Kumar to pull off a convincing 21-13, 21-7 win over Thailand’s Mongkhon Bunsun and Siripong Teamarrom in men’s doubles SL3-Sl4 summit clash.

High in confidence, Dhillon took just 20 minutes to thump South Korea’s Shin Kyung Hwan 21-9, 21-9 for the men’s singles SL4 gold.

In women’s events, Asian Youth Para Games champion Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan continued her good run of form to defeat England’s Rachel Choong

21-15, 21-15. Meanwhile, Mandeep Kaur, who pulled off an upset win in her semifinals, had to settle for the second place after going down to Turkey’s Halime Yildiz 21-5, 21-17 in the women’s SL3 finals, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) informed in a release on Sunday.

She later came out with a strong show combining with Manisha Ramdass for the gold in the women’s doubles SL3-SU5 finals.

They took just 23 minutes to defeat the Paralympian pair of Palak Kohli and Parul Dalsukhbhai Parmar 21-11, 21-11.

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