26 April 2022

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXII No. 139

DIMAPUR, TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022 Pages 12 ` 5.00

Macron wins but far-right gains

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CNTC wants detailed probe into fuel adulteration racket DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) has demanded a detailed probe into the fuel adulteration racket exposed by Rising People’s Party (RPP) at Ghorapatti here on the night of April 21.

Also demanding that State government should immediately arrest all those involved in the racket and give them a befitting punishment, the council in a release declared that as a responsible civil society organisation it could not remain a mute spectator when such a blatant illegal activity was going on right under the nose of the State government agencies.

According to Central Nagaland Tribes Council, this was a crime perpetrated on the entire Naga people and that such a heinous act upon the Naga public could not be brushed under the carpet by the State government. No manipulation on the forensic report should be allowed, it insisted.

Mentioning that it was the moral obligation of the state government to check such illicit activities, the council declared that inability to check a scam of such gigantic proportion was complete let down of trust on the part of the government.

It also demanded that the detailed inquiry report should be made public at the earliest.

ANPDU demands arrest of culprits

DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Following the Rising People’s Party (RPP) exposing the fuel adulteration racket, the All Nagaland Petroleum Dealers Union (ANPDU) Monday expressed grave concern that the “defendants” were still running the same racket on the same premises when the matter was sub judice.

In a press release, ANPDU president Akokla Lucy has appealed to the responsible authority to leave no stone unturned to bring those erring individuals to book.

The union stated that as alleged by the RPP “this nefarious activity” has been going on right under the nose of Dimapur district administration and the Dimapur police commissionerate for many years.

Congratulating RPP for exposing the racket, the ANPDU, however, stated that the linchpin of the alleged organized crime syndicate did not own 46 retail outlets (Ros) in Nagaland as asserted. (Cont’d on p-8)

This is it!

“Election is next year.

It’s time to visit intending candidates to offer my support.”

K Y M C

Govt committed to develop NE region, tribal areas: Munda

Arjun Munda with Rio and others at the foundation stone laying ceremony, Monday. (NP)

 Inaugurates Kuda Sports Complex in Dmu  Foundation stone laid for Kohima Village Multipurpose Hall  Announces archery centre for State Staff Reporter/Correspondent

DIMAPUR/KOHIMA, APR 25 (NPN): Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda had a hectic day Monday when he inaugurated the Kuda Sports Complex at Dimapur and later laid the foundation stone for Kohima Village Multipurpose Hall (KVMH).

Speaking at the inauguration of the Kuda Sports Complex in Dimapur, the minister explained that the purpose of his visit to Nagaland was to hold talks with the Tribal Affairs department for initiating developmental activities in the State.

He said the sports complex was constructed with funds from the Tribal Affairs Ministry and hoped that it would benefit local youth, who had huge talent in different categories of sports.

Mentioning that there were many projects in the pipeline, Munda said the ministry would consider set-

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ting up a museum in the State which were already been initiated in states like Gujarat, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, etc.

He also said that under Tribal Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (TRIFED), an organic herbal sector would be promoted to generate employment and entrepreneurship. He also spoke on the unique identity and beauty of the Nagas.

The Union minister was accompanied by Tribal Affairs minister Imna Along, Soil & Water Conservation, Geology & Mining minister V Kashiho Sangtam and various senior State government officials.

At Kohima, Munda laid the foundation stone for Kohima Village Multipurpose Hall (KVMH) at Kohima village ground Ziekezou here on Monday evening. Speaking on the occasion, Munda said that the Modi government was committed toward develop the tribal areas in the north eastern region so that people these areas were brought at par with the other developed regions of the country.

He said it was the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to see that people of the North Eastern states did not feel that they were left behind. He

also expressed the hope that KVMH would play a key role in preserving the culture, language and tradition of Nagas. He said the Central government was working hard to ensure that infrastructure development reached the rural areas and called for timely completion of the project so that it could be inaugurated on time.

Munda also announced that an archery centre would be set up in Nagaland considering its huge pool of talent. He also urged upon the State government to prepare and submit a proposal for the archery centre so that the ministry could grant special grant.

Of more than 700 tribal communities in different parts of the country, Munda noted that Nagaland had 17 tribes, adding the tribal people had almost similar lifestyles and character. Munda said tribal communities in Nagaland and other parts of India would witness an era of progress and development when India celebrated 100 years of independence.

He also mentioned that there are 115 aspirational districts in the country and announced that he would visit Kiphire on April 26 to review the various parameters set for development

Active Covid cases in country rise to 16,522 NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): With 2,541 new ,Covid infections being reported in a day, India’s total tally of cases rose to 4,30,60,086, while the active cases rose to 16,522, according Health Ministry on Monday.

The death toll climbed to 5,22,223 with 30 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.04 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded as 98.75 per cent, the ministry said.

Tseminyu, Peren and Shamator enter quarterfinals SPORTS, PAGE 12

Nagas must choose which way Naga movement should go: Rio Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 25 (NPN): State chief minister Neiphiu Rio has categorically asserted that the Nagas wanted peace and development and their voice should be heard loud and clear, since any mandate once given, does not mean it was forever.

Rio said this while interacting with media persons on the sideline of an event here on Monday. He argued that if the Naga movement had to continue, then a fresh mandate should

be sought from the people on whether they wanted an armed or non-violent movement.

Rio made the remark in response to a query over his earlier statement made on the floor of the assembly in March about need for a fresh mandate.

During the March Assembly session, Rio had stated that if Naga political settlement could not be arrived at, then a “fresh mandate” ought to be taken from the people on how they wanted the Naga political

issue to be pursued. Rio also maintained that the cause for delay in talks, was because some issues have still not been completely resolved even as Centre’s representative for Naga talks AK Mishra met with all the negotiating parties and consulted some senior leaders as well.

Rio said that he along with some of his colleagues met Mishra recently and after learning of the stand of the Centre, also advised him to handle certain things tactfully considering the sensitivity of the situation.

Portfolio reshuffle with BJP’s consent, claims Rio

Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 25 (NPN): Schisms within the current UDA partners surfaced in the open following the move by the chief minister Neiphiu Rio in divesting deputy chief minister and BJP legislature party leader Y. Patton of the Roads & Bridges portfolio.

In the recent portfolio swap on April 23, deputy CM Y Patton, who was holding the portfolios of Home and Road & Bridges departments, was relieved of R&B which was reassigned to NDPP adviser H

Chuba Chang. A day later, another order was issued re-allocating the Land Resource Department (LRD) to Patton.

The portfolio was held

by P. Paiwang minister of Transport, Civil Aviation and Railways. After effecting the minor swap in the UDA ministry, Rio maintained that it was done with consent of the BJP central high command.

According to sources in the ruling coalition, the simmering differences between Patton and his BJP colleague and minister Temjen Imna Along precipitated the mat-

ter when the former sought the nod from Central leaders to effect the principle of ‘one man, one post’.

Drawing attention on Patton’s reaction on being divested of R&B, Rio told the media that he spoke to Patton and would hold further discussions. Rio also informed that the BJP and NDPP would continue with the existing alliance in the 2023 assembly elections.

The same assurance was also made by BJP president and minister, Temjen Imna Along at a programme in Kohima. Along reiterated that the BJP would continue

with the current alliance with NDPP for the 2023 Assembly elections and form the PDA government again.

Patton declines LRD

Meanwhile, Patton in a communiqué informed that he has declined to accept the LRD portfolio as he was content with portfolios he holds even without the additional assignment.

In a letter to chief minister, Patton said his BJP colleague and minister P. Paiwang Konyak, who held the portfolio of LRD, has been discharging his duties (Cont’d on p-8) and

CM, APO, Muivah others condole demise of TL Angami

DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio, Angami Public Organization, NSCN (I-M) general secretary Th. Muivah and other organisations have condoled the demise of former APO vice president, founder and former president of NGBF, T.L Angami who passed away in Guwahati on April 24.

CM: State chief minister Neiphiu Rio said he was saddened to learn about the demise of T.L. Angami, a senior citizen of Dimapur and head G.B and chairman of Industrial Village Razhuphe, founder and president of (Cont’d on p-8) GBs Federation of Nagaland and also

the former vice president of Angami Public Organisation.

In a condolence message to Mrs. Alebu Angami, Rio said TL Angami was an outspoken man, who was not afraid to express his opinions and was someone who selflessly worked for the welfare of people.

His demise is a great loss to the Naga society and the vacuum created would be difficult to fill, Rio said.

Though he is no longer with us, Rio said his selfless deeds would always be remembered and the legacy left behind will be honoured. Rio along with his wife extended heartfelt condolences

to the bereaved family members and prayed that Almighty God grant them strength and courage to bear the irreparable loss and for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

APO: Angami Public Organization (APO) has expressed deep shock and sadness over the sudden and untimely demise of T.L Angami.

In a condolence message, APO president Razouvotuo Chatsu described late T.L Angami as a tall leader of the Angami community, a pioneer and a public figure whose contributions shaped and moulded the Naga society distinctively.

(Cont’d on p-8)

DoPN declares May, October Gov leads in condoling demise of Sankaranarayanan Dist creation issue: JCCV to I M A P U R , A P R 2 5 as Governor, Mukhi said Lord, the grace to bear this ‘Vegetation Clearance Months’ D(NPN): lock SDC (C) Dhansiripar office Nagaland governor Sankaranarayanan was a loss and strength to remain DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): As a preventive measure and in an effort to reduce power interruptions, the Department of Power Nagaland (DoPN) has declared May and October months of each calendar year as “Vegetation Clearance Months”.

While informing that most of the unscheduled power outages were caused due to vegetation/trees coming in contact with power lines, DoPN engineer-inchief Nribemo Mozhui said these types of power interruptions, avoidable to a large extent, disrupted

power supply network, causing much inconveniences to consumers and general public and also adversely affected equipment at power sub-stations thereby reducing their useful life.

He said that there had been many instances where restoration of power took days and even weeks together depending on the extent of damage and accessibility to the location of faults.

D u r i n g t h e s e t wo months, the department said it would carry out extensive jungle cutting along the corridor of all extra high

Prof. Jagdish Mukhi, chief minister Neiphiu Rio, NLA speaker Sharingain Longkumer and deputy CM Y. Patton have expressed pain over the demise of former Nagaland governor and veteran Congress leader, Kateekal Sankaranarayanan.

Gov: Prof. Mukhi is his condolence said he was deeply pained to hear the sudden demise of the former K Sankaranarayanan.

Besides being the former Governor of Nagaland, Maharashtra and Jharkhand and also held additional c h a r ge s o f A r u n a c h a l (Cont’d on p-8) Pradesh, Assam and Goa

senior Congress leader and a four-time legislator who held Finance, Excise and Agriculture in various ministries in Kerala.

In his death, Mukhi said the people have lost a respected leader, a distinguished parliamentarian, an able administrator and a fine gentleman. As governor of the state, he had earned the love and admiration of the people and his passing away has caused an irreparable loss to the nation and the state, he added. Prof. Mukhi conveyed deepest condolence to the bereaved family members and prayed to the

steadfast.

CM: State chief minister Neiphiu Rio said he was deeply pained to hear the news of the demise of K. Sankaranarayanan. Rio said Sankaranarayanan, who had served as Nagaland governor from February 3, 2007 to July 27, 2009, came to Nagaland with long political experience and standing.

During his period as governor, Rio said he oversaw state elections, and a short term of President’s Rule, but through his deft and mature handling ensured that there was smooth

DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Joint Co-ordination Committee of Villages (JCCV) for Dimapur district Monday announced its decision to lock the office of the SDO(C), Dhansiripar with effect from May 2, 2022 for an indefinite period till such time the government partially modify the notification dated December 20, 2022 that notified the creation of create Chumoukedima district.

In a press release, JCCV convenor LK Swu and co-convenor Tsithrongshe Sangtam stated that the decision was taken at a (Cont’d on p-8) meeting held on April 25,

Government bans single-use plastics across Nagaland DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): State government has imposed a ban on singleuse plastics in Nagaland with a view to eradicate the menace of plastic and the serious environmental and ecological challenges posed by rampant use of plastics.

According to a notification, the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of carry bags made of virgin or recycled plastic shall not be less than 75 microns in thickness w.e.f.

September 30, 2021 and 120 microns in thickness w.e.f.

December 31, 2022. Further, a non-woven plastic carry bag shall not be less than 60 Gram Per Square Meter (GSM) from September 30.

The manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of following singleuse plastic, including polystyrene and expanded polystyrene, commodities shall be prohibited from July 1: a. Earbuds with plastic sticks, plastic sticks for balloons, plastic flags, candy sticks, ice-cream sticks, polystyrene (Thermocol) for decoration; b. Plates, cups,

glasses, cutlery such as forks, spoons, knives, straws, trays, wrapping or packaging films around sweet boxes, invitation cards, and cigarette packets, plastic or poly-vinyl chloride (PVC) banners less than 100 micron, stirrers.

It said that all other clauses mandated in the “Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016” and “Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021” should be strictly adhered to. All individual, institution, and commercial establishments (educational

institutions, offices, hotels, shops, restaurants, religious institutions/faith-based institutions, industrial establishments, banquet halts, etc.) and Central & State government departments, Agencies, Commissions, PSUs, Missions, etc. including militaries/paramilitaries in the State shall abide the aforesaid ban and any breach shall be liable for penalties.

The district administration & sub-divisional administration/urban local bodies would decide and levy penalties against the defaulters

in their jurisdiction.

A district task force already constituted in the respective district would strictly monitor and function as Squads for vigilance purposes and ensure the imposing of the ban on stocking, distribution, selling, and use of all single-use plastics below the permissible specification (microns and GSM) and stipulated timelines.

The ban on single-use plastics shall be made effective from the date of publication of this Notification in the Official Gazette.

2022 in the community hall, Dhansiripar village after consulting leaders of different villages. JCCV said it had put off agitations on the request of the home commissioner and verbal request from the chief secretary.

The committee said that it had at different level submitted representations to the government to retain over 50 odd villages with Dimapur district. However, even after almost four months of fervent pleas, JCCV said the government neither tried to listen to the JCCV nor cared to speed up the decision on the impasse.

State govt issues gag order on doctors DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): State government has issued order to doctors in government service citing the Nagaland Government Servant (Conduct) Rules, 1958, which prohibits government servants from broadcasting or publishing or any communication to the press or public utterance of any statement of fact or opinion not connected with the discharge of official duty, without prior government sanction.

In an order, the state health & family welfare department has requested the doctors in government service to take note and refrain from engaging in any activity or communication in violation of the Nagaland Govt. Servant (Conduct) Rules, 1968.

The gover nment warned that any violation of the same would attract disciplinary proceedings against the government servants under the conduct rules.

K Y M C

2

STATE

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

F&ES directorate building inaugurated NIPF discusses border issues with CSOs

The programme was chaired by Neilasa Sopfii and invocation was offered

by UBC associate pastor Visato Yhoshu. After the programme, demonstrations on fire safety measures in government buildings were also carried out by representatives. It may be mentioned that the directorate building was designed by the office of the superintending engineer, Police Engineering Project, Kohima. The directorate is Pohwang Konyak along with Neikiesalie Nicky Kire and others on Monday. (NP) a three–storeyed building Correspondent KO H I M A , A P R 2 5 (NPN): Advisor for Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES), Pohwang Konyak inaugurated the F&ES directorate building, New capital complex, Kohima (below NBCC convention hall), here, on Monday.

Speaking at the inaugural programme, the advisor expressed his hap-

piness since a dream had finally come to reality after 30 years.

He disclosed that as per national standard, the state should have 48 fire stations, however, till 2010, only eight stations were established. During 20112022, the department constructed 10 fire stations and at present, there are 18 in the state with three more to be inaugurated, the advisor

informed.

He also disclosed that the department was pursuing a training institute with regard to fire and safety and sought for the cooperation of the public.

Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Dr. Neikiesalie Nicky Kire also appealed to the public to take care of government-created assets in respective areas.

with a total project cost of Rs.1085.90 lakh and was funded under negotiated loan with Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) Limited.

The construction of the directorate building was allotted to M/S P. Suohu, a class-I registered contractor while the works began from June 16, 2016 and was completed under the supervision of SE (PEP) and his officers along with technical officers of F&ES department.

Nagaland Fire & Emergency Act likely to be introduced this year

Fire and Emergency services inspector general, Neilasa Sopfii disclosed that the department was pursuing Nagaland Fire and Emergency Act under the guidance of Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA).

He said that Act was expected to be realised this year. Sopfii also informed that a model fire station in Kohima would be established and works had already begun. He also pointed out that the department would be one of the revenue generating sectors since they take preventive measures and control fire damages.

Kma police seize suspected heroin OKC launches yearlong silver jubilee celebration

DIMAPUR: Kohima police personnel manning Khuzama inter-state check gate on Monday arrested one Daili (36), resident of Senapati, Manipur on charges of possessing 360 grams (approx.) of suspected heroin.

According to Kohima police PRO, the personnel while conducting routine checking of vehicles, intercepted one Mahindra Scorpio (NL07C-4634) proceeding towards Kohima from Manipur and detected the suspected heroin neatly packed in 30 soap cases.

In this connection, the driver of the vehicle—Daili was arrested and the contraband along with the vehicle were seized.

During preliminary

Correspondent

Arrested individual along with the seized contraband.

investigation, the total value of the illegal contraband was found to be worth approximately 30 lakh in the national market, PRO informed. Accordingly, a case under NDPS Act was registered at Khuzama police station for further investigation.

KOHIMA, APR 25 (NPN): Oriental College Kohima (OCK) launched a yearlong silver jubilee celebration at the college premises, here, on Monday.

Launching the yearlong celebration event, former executive secretary of Angami Christian Revival Church Council (ACRCC), Rev Dr Putsato Naleo said education was the most important aspect of life as power and civilisation came through proper knowledge.

Pointing out that the world was polluted with evil, Naleo said through

education, one should be able to differentiate between the right and the wrong.

He encouraged the students to be careful and be committed to attain quality education by keeping God ahead. Naleo also declared the Degree Sports Meet of the college open.

Delivering the welcome address, OCK principal Dr Ketshukietuo Dzüvichü highlighted the history saying that it was started in June 2017 by the Christian Revival Church of Kohima village on a mission mode.

The College has Higher Secondary and Degree courses in Arts and Com-

merce streams and currently, there are around 500 students.

Meanwhile, jubilee organising committee convenor, Mhalezolie Kire informed about various activities to be taken up during the yearlong celebration with the grand celebration scheduled in November. The programme was chaired by Akhrieno Yhor, prayer was offered by CRC Kohima village pastor Lhouvizhü Sachü while vote of thanks was proposed by OCK vice principal Dr Goapl Basnet.

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Indigenous People’s Forum (NIPF) organised a consultative meeting “for border issue with civil societies” in Dimapur on Friday.

The meeting which was attended by representatives from Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC), Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC), Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), Nagaland Zeliang Public Organisation (NZPO) and Nagaland GB Federation, delved into intricate inter-state boundary issues of the North Eastern states, particularly Nagaland and its neighbouring states.

The consultative meeting unanimously resolved and endorsed for creation of a conducive atmosphere among indigenous people of North Eastern states for

Members of NIPF along with representatives from various CSOs after the meeting on Friday.

free and frank discussion on resolving the border issues relating to the concerned people.

M e a n w h i l e, N I P F president, Dr Temsuwati Lkr informed that the North East Indigenous People’s Forum (NEIPF) was organising the 2nd General Conference on April 29 and 30 in Dimapur which would be attended by delegates from all the North Eastern states.

“As a preparation for the conference, the consultative meeting was held with the representatives of the civil organisations of Nagaland to discuss the pressing border issues of the state”, he stated.

Dr. Temsuwati also said the consensus among all the representatives was to establish people to people relationships in order to address any issue in the region.

NEWS IN BRIEF DC Kohima informs on parking: DC Kohima Gregory Thejawelie has informed the general public that parking of vehicles for long hours or days at a stretch along the road from Assam Rifles Gate, D. Block colony to Ao church, Kohima has been prohibited with immediate effect. DC in the order also informed that vehicles found violating the order would be towed away without further notice.

LEH invites Lotha Eloe to jubilee celebration: Lotha Eloe (Women) Hoho has extended its invitation to all the Lotha Eloe to its general conference-cum-silver jubilee celebration from April 28-29 at Wokha town, Tiyi hall. LEH informed the general conference-cum- jubilee would be observed on the theme “Indigenous women as knowledge keepers” with assistant professor, Union Biblical Seminary Pune Maharashtra, Dr. Zubeno Kithan as theme speaker.

“For those who follow godly paths will rest in peace when they die.”

Isaiah 57:2

DCO Peren invites application for governor’s award: District cultural officer Peren has invited interested candidates to apply for the Governor’s Award 2022 nomination under Peren district. Interested persons may submit bio-data, supporting documents along with soft copy (CD) in the field of Art, Music and Literature to the office of the DCO by May 5 during office hours. For more information, one could contact 7005284519 or 7005925173.

NAAC team to visit WGC Mon: Wangkhao Government College Mon has informed that almost four decades after its establishment, it would be under the first cycle of NAAC assessment for which, preparations were underway. The college media cell informed that the NAAC peer team would be on a two-day visit from April 25-26 where development of the college would be assessed for allotment of grade.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Age - 106 Years Late Saxuvi Yeptho Born in 1916 – Died on 11/04/2022 We, the bereaved family members of Late Saxuvi Yeptho of Xukiye Village would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all individuals, friends, neighbours, relatives, churches and well wishers who stood with us spiritually, physically, emotionally and financially during his brief illness. It is our earnest prayer that Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Loving children, grand children, great grand children and relatives.

dp-1829/22

Born on : 12/10/1989 – Died on : 20/04/2022 We, the bereaved family members would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who stood by us at the sudden demise of our Late KeKhrIesetuo LInyu (nAIK GD) 14th nAP (Ir) Bn. Words are inadequate to thank each one of you who extended your love and concern to us at the time of our loss and grief.

We offer our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to friends, relatives, neighbours and well wishers who supported us both physically & financially and also through your prayers. May God bless you all abundantly.

Loving wife, children and relatives dp-1833/22

CHÜLO-O K. KETSU (1942 - 26 April 2021) Thinking of you on the day you went away...

This day again has come when tears are in our eyes and we could not stop it.

One year ago, too many to go, you left us, but a year felt almost like eternity without you.

Our lives feel little less brighter and the world too is lesser for the loss of you but we live holding your spirit in our hearts and minds as we remember all the wonderful times we spent together.

You are so missed.

God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts.

Loving k-835/22 Children, grandchildren and great grandchildren

mkc-121/22

Acknowledgement

Born : 11.01.1920 – Died : 21.04.2022 It is with our deepest sorrow that we announce the loss of our beloved Father Late CHUBASANGYU LEMTUR (Longmisa) who was a veteran of 2nd World War, who lived for 102 years with great honour and dignity.

We would like to thank all the friends, neighbours and all the well wishers who visited our home, attended the wake service, burial and who provided emotional and practical support for us at this difficult time. As, it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude.

Loving Wife, Children, Grand Children and Relatives.

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

LT. K. YEHOKHU CHOPHI Hd. GB LOTISA NEW

dp-1830/22

2ND FEB 1938 – 26TH APRIL 2021

"And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to the God who gave it."

Ecclesiastes 12:7 Loving Wife, Sons, Daughters, In-laws & Grandchildren

K Y M C

dp-1842/22

K Y M C

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is India’s neutrality in the Ukraine war based on it’s own interests, ethical ?

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

A B C

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A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

58% 32% 10%

NEXT POLL

Q: Who holds the key to

solution to the Naga political issue?  Centre  Naga groups  People

WEATHER FORECAST APRIL 26

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Mostly sunny and hot

37 26

Mostly sunny and hot

33 19

Aizawl

Guwahati Sunshine and a few clouds

33 23

Mostly sunny and very warm

33 15

Itanagar Partly sunny, a stray t-storm

30 19

Imphal Shillong

Partly sunny with a t-storm

28 17

Kohima

Partly sunny with a t-storm

28 17

Dimapur Sunshine and hot

35 19

Partly sunny with a t-storm

30 16

Tuensang Mostly sunny and pleasant

23 13

Partly sunny and pleasant

27 19

Mkg Wokha

Zunheboto An afternoon thunderstorm

27 15

Nagaland observes World Malaria Day 2022

DIMAPUR: With an aim to highlight the need for continued investment and commitment for prevention and control of malaria, the state health department on Monday, conducted awareness programmes and screening drives on “World Malaria Day 2022”. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), this year, the day was observed on the theme “Harness innovation to reduce the malaria disease burden and save lives”, with an objective to call for investments and innovation that bring new vector control approaches, diagnostics and other tools to speed the pace of progress against malaria.

The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) Dimapur unit has been organising various malaria awareness and prevention activities in the month of April across the district.

In a press release, district media officer, Kimnei informed that the unit has been putting emphasis on the role of communities in malaria elimination besides disseminating awareness on malaria and its preventive measures.

The communities which include stakeholders, church leaders, women

DNSU concerned over illegal optical shops DIMAPUR: Extending its support to the issue raised by Nagaland Optometric Association (NOA) on illegal optical shops run by unprofessionals, Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has asked the concerned authorities to verify and authenticate proper documents before giving registration to any associations.

In a press release, DNSU media cell stated that “such shops be immediately close down and trade licence be cancelled in total.”

It expressed shock to learn that for past many years, the public have been availing eye care services from such unprofessionals.

On the complaint received against an optical clinic that was running without proper certificates of practice in Dimapur, DNSU upon inquiry claimed that a self-styled union called “Optical Association of Dimapur interfered as a care taker of the optical clinics and tried to defend the defaulters.”

Upon inquiry, the union claimed that no executive members of “Optical Association of Dimapur” had a profession in the field of optics.

In this regard, DNSU reminded that such unprofessionals and self-styled associations would “never be allowed to function in its jurisdiction.”

NVBDCP staff conducting fever screening at Sanis Town under Wokha district on World Malaria Day.

leaders, student leaders, ASHAs etc., were oriented on NVBDCP programme activities and their roles in eliminating malaria in the district.

The release informed that since April 18-25, 56 villages under Dimapur district has been covered where malaria awareness and prevention activities were carried by NVBDCP Dimapur team led by senior malaria inspector, Nokchingsomba Chang along with Peter Sangtam, consultant, MTS, SI and SWs. Wokha district in

elimination phase of malaria: DVBO Along with the rest of the world, World Malaria Day was observed in 56 selected villages under Wokha district.

In a press release, office of the chief medical officer (CMO) Wokha informed that the NVBDCP in Wokha district laid emphasis on behavioral change of citizens to prevent the disease burden by having a habit of daily usage of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN) and reduce the source of vectors in their vicinity.

Japanese delegation to take remains of WW-II soldiers for DNA testing

J Alam speaking during the meeting at his office, on April 22. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: A three-member Japanese delegation called on chief secretary (CS) of Nagaland, J Alam in his office on April 22, in connection to the “World War-II Remains Recovery Project”.

According to a DIPR report, the delegation expressed gratitude to the state government for the cooperation and support rendered to Japan in locating the remains of fallen Japanese soldiers during WW-II. The team also briefed the state chief secretary on the progress made during past years.

They informed that the team would be taking samples of the collected remains to Japan for DNA testing in order to identify the remains.

Meanwhile, Alam assured the delegation of support and cooperation from the state government.

The meeting was also attended

by Nagaland home commissioner and other senior state government officials.

It may be mentioned that the human remains were collected by members of the Japan Association for Recovery & Repatriation of War Casualties with the help of the state government in 2019 under World War-II Remains Recovery project of Japan government.

The remains were collected during excavations carried out by a Japanese team from Wokha, Kohima and Phek districts since 2019.

Kazheto inaugurates EAC office at Yachem

Kazheto Kinimi and other dignitaries after the inauguration of the new office building.

DIMAPUR: Advisor for CAWD & NSDMA, Kazheto Kinimi inaugurated EAC office building at Yachem, in the presence of minister for Health & Family Welfare (H&FW) S. Pangnyu Phom, deputy speaker Y. Yangseo Sangtam, advisor for IPR & Village Guards, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung and CL. John, MLA, on Monday.

According to a DIPR report, in his inaugural speech, Kazheto pointed out that the office building would not only benefit Longleng district but also the entire state by strengthening the administrative infrastructure.

He lauded Pangnyu for his effort in bringing the administrative headquarter to the people of his constituency and for pursueing the project that was kept pending for long.

In his speech, Pangnyu informed that furniture for EAC office Yachem was contributed by five villages of Yachem Circle.

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Clarifying that post creation was not done in any of the newly established EAC post in the state since 2005 and majority of them did not have new office building, the minister said Yachem was fortunate to have a new office building.

Meanwhile, advisor Keoshu emphasised on clean election.

He encouraged the people to elect experienced and qualified leaders for growth and progress of the state in various sectors.

The advisor pointed out that will of the people was supreme for growth and development of any nation and further advised them not to sell their rights during election and later blame the politicians for lack of development.

Also speaking at the programme, C.L. John claimed that United Democratic Alliance (UDA) was formed in the state “not for monetary benefits of the elected members but to pave way

to find permanent solution to the Naga Political issues and development.” While claiming that solution “couldn’t be achieved due to disunity among the Naga Political groups”, John appealed to the public, NGOs, civil societies and churches to “raise their voices” at their respective platform for unity of various political factions to come to a common negotiation table for acceptable solution for all.

DC M. Shayung Phom also acknowledged the state government for allocation of fund for the office building after 10 years of establishment.

He also suggested for posting of independent administrative officer and creation of post at Yachem.

Others who spoke at the programme also included T. Yangseo Sangtam, PPC president Shami Angh and contractor H. Meren.

Highlights of the programme included special number by Yachem Students’ Union and Yakanangba & Imlionen.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by EAC Yachem Pichano Kikon, invocation and welcome address by Rev. T.I. Lakpa pastor Noksosang village and Longnyu Dobashi Yachem circle respectively. Technical report was given

by EE, CAWD, Er. Sungtiba Amer and dedicatory prayer was offered

by Yachem Baptist Church pastor, Rev. M. Adao.

District vector borne officer (DVBO), Wokha, Dr. William Humtsoe informed that the district was in the elimination phase of malaria and was “working towards zero indigenous malaria positive cases.”

In consonance with the national and state targets of eliminating malarial disease, Dr. William said it had sharply declined over the years and expressed commitment of healthcare workers to achieve “complete malaria elimination in the district” in the coming years.

Awareness pro-

grammes such as public announcement in churches and poster campaign in village community were conducted in all the five blocks.

M e a n w h i l e, f e ve r screenings were also carried out in all the endemic areas.

Prior to World Malaria Day, ASHA orientation on programme activities in malaria elimination and hands on training in taking fever test was also carried out.

NVBDCP consultant, Wezolo Medo informed that the team was educating villagers on how to avail the service of ASHAs and surveillance workers in the village from whom they can get tested for free along with anti-malarial treatment during the period for complete treatment to prevent relapse in the future.

No malaria cases reported in Longleng since 2019: On World Malaria Day, NCVBDC Longleng conducted various programmes in all the three blocks—Longleng block, Yongnyah block and Tamlu block.

In a press release, district media officer K Mongsen Phom informed that the programmes were conducted in all the 48 villages of the three blocks.

ASHAs of the respective blocks conducted aware-

WSYF visits construction site of working women hostel DIMAPUR: Western Sumi Youth Front (WSYF) visited the ongoing construction site of Working Women Hostel under the Minority Affairs department at Niuland town.

In a press release, WSYF media cell informed that on inspection, the WSYF found no construction activities going on at the site and on enquiry, it was informed that works were halted for the past three weeks.

In this regard, WSYF appealed to the Niuland administration to investigate why the work was suspended and take necessary steps to resume construction work at the earliest. The front urged upon the contractor to work as per DPR, use quality materials and not to compromise with workmanship.

The work should be completed within the specified timeframe in the work order and handover the same to the responsible department for public consumption, WSYF stated. It also warned that it would “not remain a mere spectator if the same is not adhered to.”

Further, the youth body assured its full cooperation for smooth execution of the work and informed that it would continue to monitor the construction till completion.

NGBF selects new team of office bearers

DIMAPUR: Nagaland GB Federation (NGBF) during its general session which was held in Phek district on April 20-21 selected a new team of office bearers for the tenure 2022-2026.

In a press release, NGBF sessional chairman T. Nyupuli and sessional secretary Hetoho S. Zhimomi informed that the new team would be led by L. Sahlem Konyak as president, Shikuto Zalipu as general secretary, vice president- Kashito Yepthomi, Along Jamir, Phuzuhu Vero, Hangdi Zeliang, Hongsa Chang, Vineipra Pienyu (finance incharge), Taku Longkumar, P. Nzanbemo Tungoe along with six secretaries and three other members. During the session, the house also deliberated on IndoNaga political issue and resolved to appeal to the government of India for early Naga political solution before assembly election 2023.

It discussed that the Naga political talks were successfully concluded with all Naga negotiating groups on October 31, 2019.

In this regard, NGBF appealed to the centre to immediately set to work and give formal direction for signing Indo-Naga agreement without delay. In order to make clarity of some articles and clauses of NGBF’s constitution, the members felt the need to amend it. The house, therefore resolved to constitute a five-member committee and endorsed them to coordinate with commissioner of Nagaland for necessary implementation.

ness programmes on the importance of malaria and measures to be followed in order to prevent the disease.

A total number of 392 blood samples were collected in the district. Office of the CMO also informed that since 2019, there have been no malaria cases reported in the district.

NCVBDC team of the district stated that it “has left no stone unturned in ensuring that the district is free from the deadly disease.”

Leaflets, posters and LLINs were also distributed to the public.

Meanwhile, in order to appreciate the work done by ASHAs, three of the best ASHA workers from the

three blocks were presented with the best ASHA award.

The felicitation programmes were conducted at respective sub-centres where Nyeisho ASHA from Hongyu village under Pongo Health and Wellness Centre (HWC), K. Chaiying ASHA from Yangching village and Wanmei ASHA from Amosen village under Tangha (HWC) were felicitated by district vector borne consultant, A Nyumoi Phom.

The village health chairman, ANM, community health officer surveillance worker and malaria technical supervisor also attended the felicitation programme.

Nagaland felicitated for excellent performance towards malaria elimination DIMAPUR: Nagaland was among the 18 states and union territories that was felicitated by the union minister of Health & Family Welfare, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya for “excellent performance towards malaria elimination” on World Malaria Day. In a press release, National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) informed that “Malaria Elimination” was the flagship programme of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW). In 2016, the government of India launched National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME) 2016-30 where various states and union territories were divided in three categories based on the Annual Parasite Incidence (API).

During the last six years, India has made progress towards Malaria Elimination with 86.5% reduction in cases and 76% reduction in deaths.

Mokokchung district admin inspects fuel stations

Mokokchung district administration and others during the inspection on Monday. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Mokokchung district administration led by investigating team chairman Vitolu EAC (judicial) including inspector, Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection department, OC PS-1 & 2, chairmen of Sungkomen, Aongza, Mongsenbai, Yimyu ward and village council Ungma conducted an inspection drive in all the fuel stations within Mokokchung municipal area and Ungma village on Monday.

According to a DIPR report, the team checked and verified the fuel dispensing machine measurement standard as per relevant section of the Indian Petroleum Rule 1976 in all the fuel stations.

The team also collected quality samples which would be sent for further

laboratory testing.

The team inspected basic amenities in the station facilities including clean drinking water, clean toilet facilities with running water, fire extinquisher, fuel dispensing machine seals and free air.

Later, they sealed a dispensing machine at ESSAR fuel station at Artang ward “for not dispensing the standard measurement of fuel.” The team, however, found out that it was not done through human tampering but due to leakage loss in the machine dispensing system. In this regard, the EAC directed the manager of the station not to dispense any fuel to the costumer through defective pump machine till the machine was repaired and a nod was received from the responsible authority.

Yollow calls on union minister Bhupendra Yadav in New Delhi

DIMAPUR: Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate change, Y.M. Yollow Konyak on Friday paid a courtesy call on union minister for Environment, Forest & Climate change, Labour & Employment, Bhupendra Yadav, at his office in New Delhi.

In a press release, PRO Nagaland House, New Delhi, Kuolie Mere informed that during the meeting, Yollow highlighted various activities and central schemes in the state. He expressed concerns on the Y.M. Yollow Konyak presenting a souvenir to the union effects of climate change in minister on Friday. the state and appealed to the union minister to consider the proposal and project submitted in the ministry.

In this regard, the union minister assured to look into the matters shared by the minister.

He also congratulated the state for electing a female member of parliament (MP) to the Rajya Sabha.

The minister was accompanied by “additional PCCF Ved Prakash” and DRC, Nagaland House, N e w D e l h i , We n n y e i Konyak.

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KOKRAJHAR (ASSAM), APR 25 (PTI): After a court in Assam’s Kokrajhar district granted bail to Gujarat Independent MLA Jignesh Mevani in a case over a tweet by him against Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, he was rearrested on the charge of “assaulting and outraging” the modesty of a woman police officer four days ago.

Mevani, an MLA supported by the Congress, was booked under IPC Sections related to voluntarily causing hurt, assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty and others after the official concerned filed a complaint against him, police said.

The alleged incident occurred when she was escorting the Dalit leader from Guwahati airport to Kokrajhar along with Additional Superintendent of Police Surjeet Singh Panesar and another official in a government vehicle on April 21, according to the FIR registered on the same day in Barpeta Road police station.

M eva n i ’s l aw ye r Angshuman Bora told PTI that the allegations against Mevani were “atrocious”

Jignesh Mevani and there was no mention of the Barpeta case when he was in police custody for three days or at the time his bail plea was being argued in the Kokrajhar court earlier in the day.

Suddenly, after he was granted bail, he was shown as rearrested, Bora said.

Kokrajhar First Class Judicial Magistrate Bhavna Kakoty granted him bail on furnishing a bond of Rs 30,000 with two sureties in connection with the case related to his tweet against the prime minister.

The court also directed him not to directly or indirectly make any inducement, public threat or promise to any person acquainted with the case. He was also asked not to leave the station without prior permission from the court.

While being taken away in a van from Kokrajhar to Barpeta district, Mevani alleged that this is a “conspiracy on the part of the BJP and the RSS to tarnish my image and systematically destroy me”.

Both Assam and Gujarat, from where he hailed, are BJP-ruled states.

“They (BJP and RSS) did it with Rohit Vemula, Chandrasekhar Azad and now they are targeting me.

They have serious problems with Dalits. We believe in the Indian Constitution. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar was targeted by Savarkar and Modi is targeting Jignesh Mevani,” he told reporters.

In her FIR, the woman police official alleged that the Gujarat MLA used abusive words inside the vehicle at around 1:30 pm at Simlaguri in Barpeta district.

She claimed that when she asked him to behave, he became very “agitated and used more slang words, tried to frighten me and pushed me on my seat with force.

He thus assaulted me during the execution of my duty as a public servant and outraged my modesty by touching me inappropri-

Dalit Sikhs not against relocation in M’laya Correspondent SHILLONG, APR 25: The Dalit or Mazhabi Sikhs of the Harijan colony here in Meghalaya on Monday said that they are not against relocation but want all residents to be “resettled permanently with each household getting ownership rights over 200 square meters of land.”

“We are not against relocation, we want permanent resettlement,” secretary of the Harijan Panchayat Committee, Gurjit Singh told deputy chief minister Prestone Tynsong during a second round of meeting to discuss on the relocation of the Dalit Sikhs. The Meghalaya government wanted to relocate the Dalit Sikhs from the 2-acre Harijan colony, also known as Punjabi Lane or Sweepers’ Lane, adjoining Iewduh, the commercial hub of Meghalaya capital Shillong, but the settlers have been against it.

There are multiple court cases that have been filed over the years.

Singh further made it clear that the residents are against moving into a high rise building and all they want is the land and also the cost of building their houses.

“We will build our houses. The current quarters where we are staying has not even lasted 20 years as it was built by the government through different builders,” the Panchayat leader said.

The contention of the residents is that the land where they dwell currently was gifted to them by the Syiem (chief) of Mylliem to their forefathers in 1853.

However, the State government and the Shillong Municipal Board signed a tripartite agreement to take possession of the land from the Syiem of Mylliem.

The Conrad Sangmaled government has also constituted a high-level committee (HLC) led by Tynsong which is mandated to find ways to relocate these residents from that area.

The government says the area resembles a slum and the prime property can be used more productively. “ T h e g o ve r n m e n t doesn’t provide us with water or electricity. There is no proper drainage. So in a way the government has made the area into a slum, not us. We will correct it if given an opportunity,” Singh said. In fact, the HLC had earlier decided to resettle the residents at a European

Ward. Under the state land tenure system, non-locals can’t purchase land anywhere in the state except from a sliver of land in the European ward located in the state capital. Deputy chief minister Tynsong, who is also the chairman of the HLC, told reporters that the HPC has agreed to relocation but with certain conditions. “We (government) will prepare a blueprint and detailed proposal from the government side…

Once that is done, we will communicate officially to them (HPC),” Tynsong said.

In the meantime, the Urban Affairs department is also identifying land in 2-3 locations for the resettlement. We will communicate to them “(Harijan Panchayat Committee) once the details are ready,” Tynsong added.

Meanwhile, the next meeting between the two sides is expected to be held around May 10 or 15.

For more than two decades, several indigenous Khasi civil society groups have demanded from the Meghalaya to re-locate Sikh residents, living there since British times, from Sweepers Lane as most of them are “illegal settlers”.

ately while pushing”.

“We are absolutely surprised. There was not a whisper about the assault on officials when he was under police custody for three days.

“Suddenly after he was granted bail, he was shown as rearrested under IPC Sections 294 (uttering obscene words in public), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 353 (assaulting a public servant in the execution of duty) and 354 (using criminal force to a woman intending to outrage her modesty),” Mevani’s lawyer said.

Bora said that they will move for his bail in Barpeta Court on Tuesday.

Mevani was arrested on April 19 from Palanpur town in Gujarat after an FIR was registered against him in Kokrajhar for his tweet against the prime minister.

He was brought here two days later on transit remand.

The Kokrajhar court had remanded him to three days of police custody which ended on Sunday when he was sent to one day’s judicial remand with the directive that he would be produced before the court for hearing of the bail application.

Mizoram reports 107 fresh COVID cases, 1 death AIZAWL, APR 25 (PTI): Mizoram on Monday reported 107 fresh COVID-19 cases, 30 more than the previous day, taking the tally to 2,26,886, a health official said.

The COVID-19 death toll rose to 695 as a 88-yearold woman from Mamit district succumbed to the infection on Monday, the official said.

The single-day positivity rate increased to 35.79 per cent from 16.14 per cent on the previous day as the fresh cases were detected from 299 samples tested, the official said.

Mizoram now has 700 active COVID-19 cases, while 2,25,491 people have recovered from the infection so far, including 68 on Sunday.

The COVID-19 recovery rate now is 99.38 per cent and the death rate is 0.30 per cent.

The northeastern state has so far tested more than 19.16 lakh samples for COVID-19.

According to state immunisation officer Lalmuanawma Jongte, over 8.44 lakh people have been inoculated till Saturday.

B’desh, Mizoram agree to build infra for border trade AIZAWL, APR 25 (PTI): Governments of Bangladesh and Mizoram on Monday said they will take steps to build infrastructure, including integrated check posts and road connectivity, to realise the potential of border trade between the two neighbours.

Bangladesh Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi and Mizoram’s Industry Minister Dr R Lalthangliana held a meeting here on various issues of the proposed border trade.

“After careful examination of the possibility and viability for setting up of border ‘haat’ (market place) at Silsury (India) - Sajek (Bangladesh), the government of Bangladesh may convey formal approval through diplomatic channel,” a joint statement issued by the authorities said.

Munshi said the Sheikh Hasina government is keen on developing better relations with India, especially with the northeastern states, for economic development.

The proposed border trade will help strengthen the relationship between the

Dr R Lalthangliana and Tipu Munshi. two countries, he said at a joint press conference.

During the meeting of the two ministers, the Mizoram government proposed that the authorities in the neighbouring country may “explore possibility and viability of setting up of matching infrastructure in the form of integrated check post (ICP) at Thegamukh” on their side, adjacent to the ICP being developed at Kawrpuichhuah in south Mizoram’s Lunglei district, in order to synchronise efforts to formalise trade on both sides, the joint statement said.

The state government also urged the Bangladesh authorities to explore the

possibility of constructing a 17-km road from Chhota Horin to Thegamukh in the neighbouring country to improve connectivity between the two neighbours.

It also proposed to include Khawthlangtuipui (Karnaphuli) river in one of the routes on India - Bangladesh Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade.

During the meeting of the two ministers, both sides agreed to make an endeavour to capitalise on the potentiality of a thriving border trade regime through establishment of critical trade infrastructure at viable locations, the statement said.

Asserting that the Ban-

gladesh government is making efforts for border trade with Mizoram, Munshi said the initiative will economically benefit both the neighbours.

“Our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is very interested in maintaining a good relationship with the northeast region of India and has a soft corner for Mizoram,” Munshi told reporters here.

He stated that imports of vegetables and various local products such as tamarind, chilli, and bamboo items from Mizoram, could be possible, while Bangladesh can also export plastic products, steel, cement, and garments to the northeastern state. Although the trade items will be considered based on the needs of people, he said.

“Bangladesh is sincere to its bordering countries,” Munshi added.

The minister of the neighbouring country also said that plans are being conceived to carry out the bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Mizoram through road transport and waterways.

S H I L LO N G, A P R 2 5 (PTI): With malaria deaths in Meghalaya dropping from 40 in 2015 to just three last year, the state government is now moving from the intensified control phase to the elimination phase of the disease, officials said on Tuesday.

Only 27 malaria deaths were reported in the entire state in the past five years from 2017 onwards, they said. “We have managed to achieve this milestone with early detection of the diseases at village level and complete treatment of all cases besides distributing mosquito nets in areas identified as vulnerable to the outbreak,” a senior doctor in the team that handled the vector-borne control team told PTI. Testing is free of cost, medicines are given free of cost and even mosquito nets are provided free of cost to the patients under the National Vector Borne Programme of the Government of India, she said.

An analysis of the state epidemiological situation from 1997 to 2019 revealed that the highest number of deaths due to malaria was reported in 2007 with 237 deaths in one year and out of this 117 deaths were reported in West Garo Hills district alone.

56 gold bars weighing 10.70 kg seized at Imphal airport

Correspondent

IMPHAL, APR 25: Officials of the customs division, Imphal deputed at Imphal Airport have seized 65 bars of gold weighing 10.70 kg from a person who was about to travel to Delhi.

The customs officials estimated the value of the seized gold to be over Rs 5,76,72,550 and it was about to be smuggled to Delhi.

The arrested alleged gold smuggler was identified as Wangkhem Ibungobl Singha (33) son of late W Babaton Singha, a resident of Awang Khunou village of Imphal West district.

Addressing the media, assistant commissioner of customs division Imphal, HL Songate said that the gold suspected to be foreign origin was seized on Sunday during a check to the luggage of the arrested person who was about to travel in Delhi by Air Asia flight.

Customs officials conducted the check to the luggage of the person based on specific information, he said, further adding that superintendent (AIU) approached the said person while instructing him to wait near the X-ray counter.

Officials of customs division Imphal addressing media on seizure of gold bars in Imphal on Monday.

While introducing themselves as customs officers, they enquired whether he has anything contraband in his luggage, to which he said that the luggage was not his and it was given by another person to carry it till Delhi for some monetary consideration.

The customs officials opened the luggage in the presence of Air Asia staff and it was found to contain 65 pieces of yellow metal suspected to be gold of foreign origin concealed in black polythene plastic wrapped in a blanket inside the luggage, he said.

The gold bars were modified from the origi-

nal for the convenience of smuggling, the assistant commissioner alleged.

He alleged that the arrested person did not possess any legal documents for the transportation of the gold. As such, he was detained while seizing the bars of gold.

The assistant commissioner said that they suspected the gold being smuggled from Myanmar even though there were no marks to indicate the origin of the gold.

A case was registered in connection with the seizure and investigation is in progress to nab the other offender(s), he added.

TIPRA Motha trying to divide Tripura: Union minister AGARTALA, APR 25 (PTI): Union minister Pratima Bhoumik on Monday claimed that TIPRA Motha has been trying to divide Tripura in the name of attaining ‘Greater Tipraland’.

The Tripura Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance or TIPRA Motha, a regional political party led by royal scion Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, seeks a separate state for the indigenous people of Tripura.

Union minister of State for Social Empowerment and Justice Bhoumik said, “the so-called ‘Bubagra’ (ruler) has been misleading the indigenous people by injecting the ‘Greater Tipraland’ concept when the Biplab Kumar Deb government has been making all efforts to develop tribal areas. “ Addressing a party programme at Mandwai in West Tripura district, the Union minister claimed that there have been persistent efforts to stall development works in tribal areas to defame the BJP- led government. “You are acting as the leader of the people who believe in terror tactics. Nobody gives you the license to unleash terror and the people are ready to give a befitting reply”, she said

Pratima Bhoumik without naming whom she meant by ‘you’.

Alleging that TIPRA Motha has been working to help the CPI(M), Bhoumik said, “Why didn’t you raise Greater Tipraland demand before the BJP came to power? Your father (Kirit Bikram Mankiya Bahadur) and mother (Maharani Bibhu Kumari Devi) were MPs from the state when Congress ruled the country.

You were a big leader in the Congress before floating TIPRA Motha. Why are you raising the ‘Greater Tipraland’ demand now?

“It is because you want to help the CPI(M) that had ruled the state for long but did nothing for the tribals of the state”. The BJP-IPFT alliance came to power in the north-eastern state in 2018 by ending 25 years of CPI(M)-led Left Front rule.

Prez Kovind to visit Mizoram on May 5 AIZAWL, APR 25 (PTI): President Ram Nath Kovind will visit Mizoram on May 5 to attend a convocation programme of a university, an official said on Monday.

Kovind will be in the northeastern state for the convocation of Mizoram University (MZU) at Tanhril in Aizawl, she said. A detailed itinerary of the president’s visit is awaited. This will be Kovind’s second visit to Mizoram after he became president in July 2017.

IIT Guwahati and IRS to collaborate on underwater tech GUWAHATI, APR 25 (IANS): The Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT-G) and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) have signed a MoU to collaborate on training, design and manufacturing with a core emphasis on underwater technologies, the engineering institute officials said on Monday.

The IIT-G’s Technology Innovation and Development Foundation (TIDF) and the IRS would jointly run training and certification programmes and workshops.

The goal of these programmes would be to develop qualified human resources and research personnel with industry-

aligned competencies in technologies of underwater design and manufacturing, the IIT-G sources said.

Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Director of IIT Guwahati said that in addition to developing technology, the institute has been working on skill development.

Prof. G. Krishnamoorthy, Dean of IITG, said that IRS is synonymous with industry excellence when it comes to safety, security and environmental protection.

The collaboration between IIT-G and IRS on the training and certification programs would help develop technologies for underwater exploration, he added.

Highlighting the BJP’s initiatives for giving due respect to the erstwhile royal family of Tripura and the indigenous people, the Union minister said it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had renamed Agartala Airport as Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport after the saffron party came to power.

“The Biplab Kumar Deb government has decided to celebrate Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur’s birth anniversary in a befitting manner all over the state. Now, you want to

divide the state by raising the slogan of ‘thansa’ (unity) among the tribal people”, she said.

AFFIDAVIT

Regd. No. 10335/2021

Date : 22/11/2021

I, TsalIla sangTam, aged about 32 years, D/o I. Chotsase, resident of H.no. 19 (B), sangtamtilla Village, Rangapahar Crossing, Dimapur, nagaland, do hereby solemnly affirm and declare an oath as under :1. That, I am a bonafide and law abiding citizen of India.

2. That, my name is TsalIla sangTam however, in some of my documents my name is recorded as TsalIla sTm. 3. That, the name TsalIla sangTam and TsalIla sTm is one and mean the same person.

4. That, this declaration has been made as a piece of evidence to be used for all purposes.

That, the statements made in Para no. 1 to 4 herein above are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing has been concealed therein.

DEPONENT solemnly sworn and signed before me on this 22 nd november 2021.

Notary Public dp-1832/22

Declaration

I, Shri. T. Aoakhum Longchar, S/o. T. Yanger Longchar, R/o. H/No. 63, Landmark Colony, Dimapur, Nagaland do hereby solemnly declare and affirm as follows: 1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India and a resident of the above mentioned address.

2. That my actual and official name is T. Aoakhum Longchar as entered/ recorded as in my Aadhaar Card bearing No. 546519846091, PAN Card bearing No. AKRPL1559Q and Government of Nagaland I.D. Card bearing No. GONKAOA71824.

3. That my name has been inadvertently entered and recorded as Aoakum Longchar in my Appointment Order bearing No. DW/ESTT17/84(Vol. II) dated 22nd May, 97.

4. That the name Aoakum Longchar and T. Aoakhum Longchar refers to same and one person.

5. That this affidavit is made to declare that henceforth I shall use the name T. Aoakhum Longchar in all my official and future correspondences.

6. That this affidavit is made to declare the above made statements.

Verification I, hereby verify that the statements made in paras 1 to 6 are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing material is concealed herein.

Solemnly sworn before me.

Deponent Regd. No.: 200/22 | Date: 25/04/2022 notary public

dp-1831/22

Mevani re-arrested for ‘assaulting’ woman official after getting bail

Malaria deaths in Meghalaya drop to 3 in 2021

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

aPoloGY For coMMittinG ForGerY I, Shri DIEZETUO HUOZHA, son of Late Kuolievi of Meriema Village, Kohima District; Nagaland, do hereby declare that I have committed an offence by forging the signature of Shri Megobizo Kuotsu, Ex-President of Kohima District Truck Owners and Drivers Union in the authorization letter while changing bank account holder of Kohima District Truck Owners and Drivers Union, which is a criminal offence.

Therefore, I, Shri Diezetuo Huozha, son of Late Kuolievi, of Meriema Village, in robust health and sound mind and in my own volition, do hereby tender my public apology for committing crime against Shri Megobizo Kuotsu on this day, the 16th of January 2021. I assure him that I shall not commit anything which may endanger the life and property of Shri Megobizo Kuotsu and his family in future.

Had I done anything which may cause danger on Megobizo Kuotsu and his family in future, any action may be taken against me.

(DIEZETUO HUOZHA) Signature of Witnesses 1. (Keduolhoulie Huozha) 2. (Khrielie Huozha) k-832/22

5

NATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

India, EU to launch trade, technology council

Govt blocks 16 YouTube channels for spreading disinformation

thus deepen cooperation in these fields”.

It said both sides agreed that the rapid changes in the geopolitical environment highlight the need for joint in-depth strategic engagement.

“The Trade and Technology Council will provide the political steer and the necessary structure to operationalise political d e c i s i o n s, c o o r d i n a t e technical work and report to the political level to ensure implementation and follow-up in areas that are important for the sustainable progress of European and Indian economies,” the EU said in a statement.

It said the shared values and common interests of the EU and India offer a strong basis to intensify mutually beneficial and deeper strategic cooperation.

“The European Union and India are bound by decades of close partnership and are determined to increase joint efforts to tackle current challenges and address geopolitical circumstances,” it said.

“The decision to set up a Trade and Technology Council will be the first for India with any of its partners and second for the European Union following the first one it has set up with the US,” the EU added.

It said establishing the EU-India council is a key step toward a strengthened strategic partnership for the benefit of all peoples in the EU and India.

The European Commission president began a two-day visit to India on Sunday in the backdrop of the RussiaUkraine conflict.

“I am thinking of three main topics -- trade, technology and security.

That is why I am pleased that today, Prime Minister Modi and I have agreed to establish an EU-India Trade and Technology Council,” von der Leyen said during her meeting with Modi.

“The EU has only one TTC so far -- with the US, and I think it is telling that we now establish the second one with India. Also because India is technologically a powerhouse and in the trade sector, we need to unleash an enormous amount of

untapped potential,” she said.

The European Commission president said the EU will “diversify away” from fossil fuels and invest heavily in clean renewable e n e r g y. “ T h e r e f o r e , cooperation with India not only on solar but also on green hydrogen is critical,” she added.

At an event on Sunday, von der Leyen said Russia’s war in Ukraine was a stark reminder that the dependency on Russian fossil fuels is not sustainable and pitched for a deeper cooperation between India and the EU to expand the use of clean energy.

In her address at the International Solar Alliance (ISA), she also talked about the need for sustainable ways of doing business using clean energy and emphasised the need for switching to “home-grown clean energies” in the wake of the Russian aggression against Ukraine.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called on von der Leyen before her talks with Modi.

“Pleased to call on President of @EU_ Commission @vonderleyen.

Discussed taking forward the #IndiaEU partnership.

Also exchanged views on the economic and political implications of the Ukraine c o n f l i c t ,” Ja i s h a n k a r tweeted.

Cong to constitute ‘Empowered Action Group-2024’, to hold ‘Chintan Shivir’

Govt panel to review SII’s EUA plea for TB vaccine

Congress must focus on over 200 seats: Tejashwi

party leaders to chalk the Congress strategy for the next general and assembly elections, including the plan presented by Kishor.

The Congress has been struggling to evolve its strategy for upcoming elections in the wake of a series of defeats at the hustings. “The Congress president received a report from the eight-member group on April 21. Today, she discussed the report with the group and based on the discussions, the Congress president has decided to constitute an ‘Empowered Action Group-2024’ in order to address the political challenges ahead,” Surjewala said.

The meeting was convened at the 10, Janpath residence of Sonia Gandhi, where senior party leaders including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ambika Soni, K C Venugopal, Surjewala, Mukul Wasnik, Digvijaya Singh, Jairam Ramesh and P Chidambaram were among those present.

During the meeting that lasted for over three hours, Gandhi discussed the recommendations with the

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): A crucial meeting o f t h e s u b j e c t ex p e r t committee (SEC) of the CDSCO will be held on Tuesday to consider granting emergency-use authorisation (EUA) to Serum Institute of India’s (SII) recombinant BCG (rBCG) vaccine for the prevention of tuberculosis, according to official sources.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is the drug regulator of India.

The EUA application was submitted to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on March 22 by Prakash Kumar Singh, the director of government and regulatory affairs at the SII. I n d i a ’s T B immunisation programme c u r r e n t ly o f f e r s B C G vaccination at birth or as early as possible till one year of age. The SII already supplies life-saving vaccines to the government under the Universal Immunisation Prog ramme, including Pneumococcal, IPV and Rotavirus, Singh mentioned in his letter.

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed on Monday to launch the EU-India Trade and Technology Council, a strategic coordination mechanism to tackle challenges at the nexus of trade, trusted technology and security.

It will be the second trade and technology c o u n c i l i nvo l v i n g t h e 27-nation European Union (EU) after its first one with the United States.

The decision to launch the new platform was taken during talks between Modi and von der Leyen. The two leaders deliberated on a plethora of key issues, including the situation in war-hit Ukraine.

In a tweet, Modi said he was delighted to hold talks with the European leader and that both sides reviewed the “full range of India-EU ties including economic and cultural linkages”.

Besides holding talks with the prime minister, the visiting European leader also met President Ram Nath Kovind. “ To d ay, our relationship is more i m p o r t a n t t h a n e ve r.

We h ave s o mu c h i n common. We are vibrant d e m o c r a c i e s, we b o t h support wholeheartedly the

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): The Congress on Monday announced that an empowered group will be constituted to address the political challenges ahead, days after deliberating on the presentation by poll strategist Prashant Kishor over the party’s plan for the 2024 elections.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi also decided to convene a ‘Chintan Shivir’, a brainstorming session from May 13-15 in Udaipur, where party leaders from across the countr y would discuss internal issues confronting it and come up with solutions to help strengthen the organisation and make it fit to take on the BJP in the next round of polls, party chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters.

Asked if there was any decision on Kishor’s induction into the party, Surjewala did not give a direct reply, and merely said, “Whenever the group is constituted, you will know who is part of it.

The decisions were taken at a meeting of senior

Narendra Modi with Ursula Gertrud von der Leyen during the Raisina Dialogue 2022, in New Delhi, Monday. (PTI)

rules-based international order and we have both large economies, and we are both facing a challenging global landscape,” von der Leyen said in her opening remarks at the meeting with Modi.

“For the European Union, the partnership with India is one of our most important relationships for the coming decade and strengthening this partnership is a priority,” she added.

The European Commission president said she was glad that both sides are starting negotiations toward comprehensive trade and investment agreements.

The European Union said the EU-India Trade and Technology Council will allow both partners to tackle challenges “at the nexus of trade, trusted technology and security, and

members of the group.

These eight leaders were part of the group who had discussed and looked into the party’s strategy for upcoming assembly and general elections and submitted its report along with recommendations to the Congress president on April 21. “The Congress President has decided to convene the ‘Nav Sankalp Chintan Shivir’ of the Indian National Congress in Udaipur on May 13, 14 and 15, 2022, where about 400 Congressmen and women from every state will participate,” Surjewala said.

The focus of the deliberations will be on the current political and economic situation and the challenges they pose to our society and the nation, he said. “Issues relating to the welfare and wellbeing of farmers and farm labourers, and the trampling of the rights of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, OBCs, religious and linguistic minorities and women social justice and empowerment and youth will also be discussed in detail.

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): Amid speculation over political re-alignment in Bihar after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar attended an RJD-hosted Iftar, leader of opposition Tejashwi Yadav on Monday cautioned against imagining any “political twist” to it and asserted that his party would keep fighting forces that remain aligned with the the BJP and the RSS. In an interview with PTI, Yadav also called for firming up of an Opposition alliance to take on the BJP in the 2024 general elections, suggesting that the Congress must focus on over 200 seats on which it is in direct fight with the saffron party, while taking a “backseat” in states where regional parties are a formidable force.

Ya d a v s a i d t h e Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has never aligned with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and their allies directly or indirectly, and its opinions are not formed on the “ideology of convenience”.

On poll strategist Prashant Kishor’s parleys with the Congress for a plan to revive the grand old party, the 32-year-old

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): The Centre on Monday blocked 16 YouTube channels, including six operating from Pakistan, and a Facebook account for spreading disinformation related to India’s national security, foreign relations and public order, according to an official statement.

The blocked YouTube channels and the Facebook account had a cumulative viewership of over 68 crore and were spreading “false, unverified information to create panic, incite communal disharmony and disturb public order in India”, the statement issued by the Ministr y of Information and Broadcasting said.

“None of the digital news publishers had furnished information to the ministry as required under Rule 18 of the IT Rules, 2021,” it added.

The ministry said the content published by some of the blocked Indiabased YouTube channels referred to the members of a particular community as terrorists and incited hatred among various religious communities.

“Such content was found to have the potential to create communal disharmony and disturb public order,” it said.

The ministry said

Screenshot of one of the YouTube channels banned by government. (PIB)

multiple India-based YouTube channels were publishing unverified news and videos that had the potential to trigger panic among various sections of the society.

“Examples include false claims related to announcement of a panIndia lockdown due to COVID-19, thereby threatening the migrant workers, and fabricated claims alleging threats to certain religious communities etc. Such content was observed to be detrimental to public order in the country,” it said.

According to the m i n i s t r y, t h e b l o c k e d YouTube channels based in Pakistan were found to have been used in a coordinated manner to post fake news

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav leaves the party office in Patna, Monday. (PTI)

RJD leader remarked that if hiring professionals or marketing agencies could make one win elections then the richest could have formed political parties and ruled the country.

He, however, added that it was up to the wisdom of the Congress on whether and how it shapes Kishor’s role within its structure.

Asked about the buzz surrounding JD(U) chief Kumar’s presence at the RJD Iftar and if he was open to reuniting with him, Yadav said, “Our party has been organising Iftar and Makar Sankranti (DahiChura) parties for more than two decades and we have always been inviting

common people as well as senior politicians from across all parties.”

This was purely an event in sync with tradition and the only message one should draw out of this should be of peace, amity, brotherhood and harmony, he said.

“We made it very clear from the beginning that imagining any political twist undermines the sanctity of the occasion,” the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly said.

Asked about his remarks in the past that Kumar was not dependable and if a change of government was on the cards, Yadav said the RJD

about India on various subjects such as the Army, Jammu and Kashmir and foreign relations in the light of the situation in war-hit Ukraine. “The content of these channels was observed to be completely false and sensitive from the perspective of national security, sovereignty and integrity of India, and India’s friendly relations with foreign States,” the ministry said.

The ministry issued an advisory to private television news channels last week, cautioning them against making false claims and using scandalous headlines.

The blocked YouTube channels include MRF TV LIVE, Saini Education Research, Tahaffuz-e-Deen India and SBB News.

is the only regional party that has never compromised on its ideology, values and principles.

“We have never aligned with the RSS, the BJP and their allies directly or indirectly. Our opinions are not formed on the ideology of convenience and short t e r m g a i n s. We h ave fought and keep fighting authoritarian and anticonstitutional forces that remain aligned with the BJP, the RSS and the charade of the NDA,” he stressed.

“Therefore, there is absolutely no question of a shift in our ideology,” he said. Is there a need for a special tutorial to understand the silence of Nitish Kumar on the demand for special status to Bihar as well as pressing for a caste census, the former Bihar deputy chief minister asked rhetorically.

Kumar had on Friday attended a ‘Dawat-e-Iftar’ organised by former chief minister Rabri Devi at her 10, Circular Road residence in Patna. His presence there sent ripples in the political circles in Bihar as Tejashwi Yadav and his elder brother, Tej Pratap Yadav, were seen sitting beside him and having conversations.

2 dead, 3 rescued after building collapses in Delhi; FIR lodged SC agrees to list pleas against abrogation of Article 370

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): Two labourers died and three others were rescued after a three-storey house that was undergoing renovation collapsed in south Delhi’s Satya Niketan area on Monday, police said.

Another labourer, who was outside the dilapidated building at the time of the incident, had a narrow escape, they said, adding that an FIR has been registered in the matter.

The South Delhi Municipal Cor poration (SDMC) also announced a probe into the incident.

Around 1.25 pm, a PCR call was received at South Campus police station about the building collapse in Satya Niketan, the police said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Manoj C said, “One labourer who was outside the building had a narrow escape. He sustained injuries and was admitted to a hospital for treatment.” “Southwest district police with assistance

Rescue operation underway after under-construction building collapsed in New Delhi, Monday. (PTI)

from Delhi Fire Services and NDRF began the rescue operation at the spot and rescued all the five trapped labourers,” he said.

Two labourers died later and the remaining four are undergoing treatment, he said.

“An FIR has been registered in the matter,” the DCP said.

The deceased have been identified as Bilal and Naseem and the injured as Md Firdaus, Aslam,

Sarfaraz and Musahid, the police said.

The rescue operation lasted for over three hours.

Earlier, Director of Delhi Fire Services Atul Garg said, “We received a call around 1:24 pm about a house collapse in Satya Niketan building number 173 here. Six fire tenders have been rushed to the spot.” Since this building was in a congested area, the main challenge was to take the rescue vehicles inside. It

was a difficult task, he said.

All the five labourers who were trapped under the debris have been rescued and rushed to a hospital for treatment. The rescue operation has ended, Garg said.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) pressed its sniffer dogs into service to search for survivors, and used drilling equipment and cutters.

An NDRF personnel said the labourers got trapped in the kitchen area of the house.

A senior fire official said according to preliminary inquiry, it seems that the building was not in a good condition to undergo renovation. “ T h i s wa s a n o l d building and it was not in a good condition to undergo renovation. We found out through local inquiry that the said building was being renovated to convert it into a PG accommodation. So, they must have broken some structure for this purpose

which led to the collapse,” he said.

“Since renovation was underway, no one was living in the building. It has also been found that there was no proper building plan. It was not a planned construction and was also not approved by the concerned authorities,” he said.

SDMC Mayor Mukesh Suryan said the civic body will launch a probe into the building collapse.

A notice was served last month to the building owner for carrying out renovation work in the building. On April 11, the Delhi Police was requested to stop the renovation, he said.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal termed the incident “very sad”.

“This accident (building collapse) is very sad. The district administration is engaged in relief and rescue work.

I myself am taking every information related to the incident,” he tweeted in Hindi.

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to consider listing after summer vacation the pleas challenging the Centre’s decision to abrogate provisions of Article 370 which had given special s t a t u s t o Ja m mu a n d Kashmir.

A bench comprising Chief Justice N V Ramana and Justice Hima Kohli took note of the submissions of senior advocate Shekhar Naphade, appearing for one of the petitioners, that the plea needed an urgent hearing in view of the delimitation exercise being carried out in the state.

“This is the Article 370 matter. The delimitation is also going on,” the senior l aw ye r, a p p e a r i n g f o r interveners Radha Kumar (academic and author) and Kapil Kak (retired officer of the Indian Air Force), said.

“Let me see,” the CJI said, adding, “This is a five-

judge matter. I will have to reconstitute the bench.”

The apex court agreed to re-constitute a five-judge bench hear pleas after summer vacation.

Several petitions challenging the Centre’s decision to abrogate p r ov i s i o n s o f A r t i c l e 370 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which splits J-K into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh — were referred to a Constitution Bench headed by Justice N V Ramana in 2019 by the then CJI Ranjan Gogoi.

By abrogating Article 370, the Central government had revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Besides Justice Ramana, Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, R Subhash Reddy (since retired), B R Gavai, and Surya Kant were part of the bench which, on March 2, 2020, had

declined to refer to a larger seven-judge bench the batch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Centre’s decision to abrogate provisions of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.

NGO, People’s Union of Civil Liberties (PUCL), Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association, and an intervenor had sought referring of the matter to a larger bench on the ground that two judgements of the apex court -- Prem Nath Kaul versus Jammu and Kashmir in 1959 and Sampat Prakash versus Jammu and Kashmir in 1970 -- which dealt with the issue of Article 370 were conflicted each other and therefore, the current bench of five judges could not hear the issue.

Disagreeing with the petitioners, the bench had said it was of the opinion that “there is no conflict between the judgements”.

6

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

Poverty! Where?

VOL. XXXII NO. 139 DIMAPUR, TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

Revival plans on test

W

hile the BJP continues to be on a campaign-mode since 2014 , the Congress continues to be in ICU since 2014. Today the AAP is challenging the Congress by projecting itself as the alternative to head a likely opposition alliance against BJP. After winning Punjab from the Congress and now ruling in two states including Delhi, the AAP is now focussing on Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh which go to the polls by end of 2022. AAP leaders are already on the ground. On the other hand, the Congress, which also rules two states (Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan), is still in a comatose state. The party is unable to think and act even as Rahul remained clueless and Sonia desperate for solutions. The root cause of the Congress’ ailment is the role of the veteran Gandhi loyalists who reject any notion of giving up their privileged positions solely on the strength of having a hold over the Gandhi family. India goes to the polls in 2024 and there isn’t any more time left for the Congress to resurrect itself from the comatose state. Today, prominent leaders, especially the youth have left the Congress because they realise that they have no future in the family party. Despite reams having been written about the problems within and the need for a thorough revamp, the veteran family loyalists still see themselves as indispensible. Their hold over the party is ensured if Rahul continues to be the man to see over all party affairs; since Sonia is hardly in a condition to be proactive. After having failed to retain Punjab and regain power in Uttarakhand and Goa, the Congress became more desperate.

Rahul and Priyanka only managed to make it worse for the party. Rahul in particular, proved a total flop since 2014 and again repeated it after taking over as president in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. It is clear that the Gandhi family is completely incapable of helping the party win the elections. The Gandhi magic no longer works. They have been reduced to fading campaign stars. The people who attend their rallies do so for various reasons and least of which is to vote for the party. Rahul is a poor communicator while Priyanka’s claim as an option is merely on being an Indira-look alike. But that is as far as it goes. To make matters worse for Priyanka, her colourful and controversial husband Robert Vadra has been sounding out the possibility of him contesting elections. This family adventurism has to end. The challenge is to change the concept that though the Gandhi family are Congress but Congress is not the Gandhi family. The late realisation has Congress reach out to renowned political strategist Pashant Kishor or PK as he is popularly known, to revive the party. To their credit and after having led the party to disasters, the Gandhi family has accepted that they need PK. However the veterans within the party are not sold to the idea since they fear the induction of PK will end their hold over the Gandhis and the party. PK has made it clear that Rahul should not lead the party but someone who is capable elected by the party. Only time will tell whether PK’s effort will be like much needed transfusion or proving that it’s too little and too late?.

DailyDevotion “Ready in Season” Be ready in season and out of season.

—2 Timothy 4:2 Many of us suffer from the unbalanced tendency to “be ready” only “out of season.” The season does not refer to time; it refers to us. This verse says, “Preach the Word! Be ready in season and out of season.” In other words, we should “be ready” whether we feel like it or not. If we do only what we feel inclined to do, some of us would never do anything.

There are some people who are totally unemployable in the spiritual realm. They are spiritually feeble and weak, and they refuse to do anything unless they are supernaturally inspired. The proof that our relationship is right with God is that we do our best whether we feel inspired or not.

One of the worst traps a Christian worker can fall into is to become obsessed with his own exceptional moments of inspiration. When the Spirit of God gives you a time of inspiration and insight, you tend to say, “Now that I’ve experienced this moment, I will always be like this for God.” No, you will not, and God will make sure of that. Those times are entirely the gift of God. You cannot give them to yourself when you choose. If you say you will only be at your best for God, as during those exceptional times, you actually become an intolerable burden on Him. You will never do anything unless God keeps you consciously aware of His inspiration to you at all times. If you make a god out of your best moments, you will find that God will fade out of your life, never to return until you are obedient in the work He has placed closest to you, and until you have learned not to be obsessed with those exceptional moments He has given you.

Quotes

We must not allow other people’s limited perceptions to define us. ~ Virginia Satir

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

I

n the most recent NITI Aayog’s reports on India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), we see the glaringly poor performance of Nagaland in almost all the vital indicators, and in some cases, our state even outperformed all the other states and union territories in the country for all the wrong reasons. When we look at the numbers or figures published, Nagaland’s performance is below the par in 9 out of 12 indicators, that also in some of the most vital indicators such as hunger, health care, inequality, lack of quality education, lack of decent work and economic growth, lack of sustainable communities, lack of quality of life on land, gender inequality, lack of infrastructure and industry.

The report on NITI Aayog’s SDG indicates that 73% of the population in Nagaland lives below the national poverty line, which if we assume the population of our state to be somewhere around 19 to 20 lakh, the 73% equals to around 14 lakh. In other words, around 14 lakh are living below the poverty line in Nagaland.

This is an overwhelming number for a small state to have such a high proportion of its population living not just in poverty, but worse, to live below the national poverty line. This figure is further confirmed when we look at the Multidimen-

N

sional Poverty Index where it indicates 75 % (around 15 lakh) of our population to be deprived and poor in terms of the indicators such as deprived of adequate nutrition, health care, and schooling; and percentage of household deprived of drinking water, sanitation, electricity, housing, assets, cooking fuel, and bank account. What’s more, 25% of the population (5 lakh) do not receive adequate nutrition and are nutritionally deprived, 13% of the population (3 lakh) are educationally deprived, and only 10% of the teachers at the secondary level are trained. These are some serious numbers and the concerned government departments as well as the government of Nagaland need to be questioned and held accountable for such states of affairs. What is the government of Nagaland doing for its people, its citizens?

Are the people, most of who are poor, in Nagaland not allowed to have a decent life—that is access to proper drinking water, shelter, food/ nutrition, health care, electricity, sanitation, education, and affordable housing?

Just to give context to these figures, the MPI indicates that 69% of the total households in Nagaland lack access to cooking fuel, and 70% of the household do not have proper housing. “To put a cherry on top,” as a saying goes, Nagaland leads, among all other states and union ter-

talks and voices their opinions on many varieties of issues, especially Naga political issues, clean elections, development, human rights, hornbill festival, and so forth. These are all valid, yet rarely do we hear about the poor and poverty in our state. It gives the impression that there is no poverty. The reality, however, is that most people in Nagaland are apathetic to the poor or their plight. Most people in Nagaland have the mentality that “as long as I am fine and get what I want, Hell with the rest!” Thus, the poor rarely comes into the picture whenever the society and the state speak of development or taking care of the welfare of the people.

There is also one irony to all these states of affairs in Nagaland. As long as the poor (which accounts for 75 percent of the population in Nagaland—according to NITI Aayog’s SDG) are neglected and their plights are not alleviated, no matter what political leaders, government bureaucrats (including law enforcement, technical engineers, etc.), and numerous civil societies may deafeningly voice about ways to tackle unemployment, corruption, clean election, and development challenges will not work.

Indeed, it is quite hilarious to hear the upper helms of political leaders say “look beyond government jobs.” That’s also in students’ graduation ceremony. What a mockery. It is like a very bad and cruel joke

on the students and youths— most of whose parents will no doubt be struggling to make their ends meet. And given the weak and pitiable socioeconomic and developmental infrastructure in the state (and hence fewer employment opportunities with decent living wage), most of these students (especially those without any kind of family, tribal, political, governmental, or bureaucratic connections) will no doubt end up living below the national poverty line, that is, become poor. It is such political leaders and government servants that brought the state to a grinding halt with no other avenues for decent living other than the government jobs, and now they dare to say “look beyond government jobs,” “be a job creator, not job seekers,” “get skills,” and numerous other overused slogans to hide their handprint in the collapse and nonexistence of basic infrastructure necessary for economic development and thus shut the door on producing numerous alternate avenues for a decent employment. Other states in India are known for their manufacturing hub, IT hub, transport hub, commercial hub, production and service hub, while it seems perhaps that Nagaland is good at or will be known for poverty hub or producing the poor.

Very soon, in the next coming years, we might as well add to these another achievement: unemployment. The wealth disparities in Nagaland are

severe, thus the high rate of inequality and poverty in our state. And a high rate of poverty is an indication of a high rate of unemployment or employment that keeps people poor and below the national poverty line.

If the state and society are serious about what they proclaim publicly, then the NITI Aayog’s SDG indicators are the way forward in tackling many of the challenges in Nagaland. These 9 indicators where Nagaland is performing below the par (such as hunger, health care, inequality, lack of quality education, lack of decent work and economic growth, lack of sustainable communities, lack of quality of life on land, gender inequality, lack of infrastructure and industry) should give us a good idea about what needs to be done, what needs to be prioritized.

Rather than needlessly waste valuable resources on issues that will never be resolved.

As long as there is a high rate of poverty in Nagaland, there will be corruption in all its various forms (nepotism, patronage, bribe, embezzlement, favouritism, backdoor appointment, tribalism), lack of development (compromised workmanship: a good and relevant example of this is the small width of the 4-lane road in Dimapur, which is smaller than National standard), and unemployment.

Dr. Salikyu Sangtam, North East Christian University, Dimapur

India towards self-reliance in electronics sector

ew India is self-reliant in many ways and it is estimated that India will start producing electronics products also worth Rs 30,000 crore rupees by 2026. The demand for such products is increasing day by day in the country. To install chips in these products, the country will need semiconductors worth at least Rs 6 lakh crore. Preparations are underway to make the semiconductor indigenously. Currently India imports semiconductors from other countries. While addressing at SEMICON, the Semiconductor Conference held in Bengaluru recently, Rajiv Chandrashekhar, Union Minister of State for Information Technology and Electronics, said that the government has received

B

ritories in India, in the total percentage of households without any assets, with 34% of the household. Meaning, that a quarter of the households (which is an astounding number) in our “Land of Festival” have no assets.

Here we have outperformed and outdone all other states and union territories in the country. This certainly is a cause of celebration, or perhaps a big “FELICITATION” in all our local dailies is in order; after all, it is a kind of achievement that has taken a lot of effort on the part of our state leaders (to be precise: political, governmental, law and enforcement, technical, bureaucratic, and other public servants) in the past 30-40 years to bring our state into such a condition. A condition where the poor refuse to insist on their dignity and human self-respect, and where the calamity and day-to-day hardships of the poor are neglected by the indifferent public, news media, parasitic community leaders, civil organizations, academics, church, and their own elected leaders.

And when this 75% of the population (13 lakh people) do not voice their plights and hardships, in the eyes of the remaining 25% of the population, there is no poverty. This is to say that society does not care. “What poverty? Where is the poverty?” may well be the response one may get when inquiring about poverty in Nagaland.

Everyone in Nagaland

proposals from many companies for electronic chip production.

These include Vedanta Foxconn Joint Venture, IGSS Ventures and ISMC. Meanwhile, semiconductor production has decreased due to the revival of Covid pandemic and lockdown in China. Integrated circuit production in China declined by 4.2 percent in the first quarter of this year. Semiconductor chip production declined 5.1 percent in March. Chinese electronics makers are fearful of supply chain disruptions. This can also have an impact on India, as India imports a lot of components from China.

India imports 100 per cent of semiconductors, of which half material is imported from China alone.

Apart from the chip, many types of

electronic, auto and mobile phone parts are also imported from the Dragon. There is such a shortage of chips in the world at this time that chip makers are working by extracting semiconductors from old washing machines bought from junk dealers. The chip shortage doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. The Russo-Ukraine war has disrupted supply lines, causing intermittent or halting supply of goods.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, one of the largest chip makers in South East Asia, fears a reduction in chip production due to a shortage of manpower and parts.

More than 169 industries, including electronics, have been affected due to chip shortage. In the last two years, people started working from

home during the lockdown, due to which the demand for electronic products like computers, laptops, gaming consoles etc. increased.

Chip makers, on the other hand, had reduced production. A modern car uses 1,500 to 3,000 chips. During the pandemic, cinema halls were closed to contain the spread of the virus, forcing many people to turn to home entertainment during periods of self-isolation, fueling demand for video game consoles. The properties of semiconductors or chips are in between that of conductors and insulators. Chips typically made from silicon are used to supply power to a wide variety of devices such as cars, laptops, smartphones, home appliances and gaming consoles. The chip performs many functions, such

as power display and data transfer, etc. Hence, the supply crunch is bound to have an impact on the sales of cars, fridges, laptops, TVs and other electronic equipment. Taiwan is the world leader in semiconductor manufacturing. Last year there was a severe drought, which caused problems for the chip makers. A large amount of pure water is needed to manufacture semiconductors. Chip production cannot be increased on short notice, because it is a complex process that takes months. It usually takes more than three months to make a chip. In such a situation, the problem is expected to persist till 2023.

NarvijayYadav is a senior journalist & columnist.

He tweets @NarvijayYadav

Politics and play, the perils of one-party dominance

ack in 1957, when the Congress Party was as hegemonic in Indian politics as the Bharatiya Janata Party is today, Chakravarti Rajagopalachari wrote a remarkable essay on the dangers of excessive dominance by one party to democracy.

A veteran of the freedom struggle, once a close associate of Gandhi and Nehru, the holder of high political office at both Centre and state, ‘Rajaji’ was increasingly disenchanted with the direction the country was taking under the government led by his erstwhile comrades. He expressed this disenchantment in a magazine essay published in August 1957 to coincide with Independence Day. Rajaji’s article began: “The successful working of parliamentary democracy depends on two factors; first on a broad measure of agreement among all classes of citizens about the objectives of government; secondly, on the existence of a two-party system, in which each of the big political groups possesses effective and continuous leadership and is strong enough to take over the responsibilities of government when the majority of the country’s voters wish it.” For if “one party remains always in power,” wrote Rajaji, “and dissent is dissipated among unorganized individuals and relatively insignificant groups which do not and cannot coalesce, government will inevitably become totalitarian.”

At this stage, the Congress had been in power at the Centre for a decade and had been continuously in office in almost all the states too.

Observing the complacency

and arrogance with which the Congress conducted itself, Rajaji wrote: “A single-party democracy soon loses its sense of proportion. It sees, but cannot place things in perspective or apprehend all sides of a question. This is the position in India today.”

With one party so dominant, continued Rajaji, “it is inevitable that the party should become more important than Parliament... The leader will take decisions in accordance with majority opinion in the party. This may be deemed to be a partial alleviation of totalitarianism, but even this may not happen if the leader be an overwhelming force by himself, in which case the party may not be able to divide itself even within closed doors. The mechanics of unadulterated dictatorship would then operate unhindered.”

Rajaji’s remarks, aimed at the Congress-ruled India of the past, are strikingly relevant to the BJP-ruled India of the present. To be sure, while in absolute control at the Centre, the BJP is not in power in several important states, which may act as a partial check on its totalitarian ambitions. However, at the national level, the Opposition is weak and fragmented. And even more than Jawaharlal Nehru, Narendra Modi seeks to be ‘an overwhelming force by himself ’, his desire to build a personality cult around himself aided by the sort of propaganda machine not remotely conceivable in the 1950s. With the assistance of his home minister, Modi has also subverted and undermined democratic institu-

tions far more systematically than Nehru ever did. Several months later, Rajaji published a second article on the state of Indian democracy, which he titled: “Wanted: Independent Thinking”. He argued here that “no ’ism will work satisfactorily unless the citizens in the democracy are willing to undertake the responsibility of thinking and judging for themselves.” However, as things stood, “instead of independent thinking and free judgment, the manners of parrots have been growing among men... They repeat the words uttered by the established guardians without paying thought to the meaning and the implications.”

These strictures apply to a fair degree to India today, made worse, again, by the availability of means of communication and indoctrination unavailable to Nehru and the Congress in the 1950s.

Consider the sycophantic praise of the prime minister by his ministers and MPs offered daily in the op-ed pages of once reputable newspapers published in Delhi. Consider the English and, especially, Hindi television channels, whose slavish parroting of the government line, and whose whole-hearted participation in building Modi’s personality cult, cheapen and degrade Indian democracy. Consider also the regular barrage of carefully-choreog raphed videos showing the prime minister as a larger-than-life, almost god-like, figure, blessing athletes or inaugurating projects or playing with peacocks. Consider, finally, the cut-paste tweets of the bhakt brigade, likewise part of the

malign attempt by the State and the party machinery, to inhibit or discourage citizens from thinking and judging for themselves.

In May 1958, Rajaji had warned: “If subservience and slavish adulation take the place of independent thinking and criticism is never resorted to but with fear and trepidation, the atmosphere quickly breeds the political diseases peculiar to democracy.” Without “the free and critical atmosphere of a well-balanced democracy,” he wrote, India was witnessing “the growth of the weeds of careerism, intrigue and various types of degrees of dishonesty.”

Rajaji went on to argue that “an Opposition is the natural preventive for such poisonous weeds. An Opposition is therefore the urgent remedy indicated by the symptoms...”

In this second article, Rajaji briefly spelt out the requirements of an Opposition that might help restore Indian democracy to an even keel.

Thus, he wrote: “We need an Opposition that thinks differently and does not just want more of the same, a group of vigorously thinking citizens which aims at the general welfare, and not one that in order to get more votes from the so-called have-nots, offers more to them than the party in power has given, an Opposition that appeals to reason and acts on the firm faith that India can be governed well as a democratic Republic, and that the have-nots will not reject sound reason.”

The next year, at the ripe old age of eighty, Rajaji put his precepts into practice by starting a new party called

Swatantra whose charter was to free the economy from what its founder called the licensepermit-quota raj, to protect individual freedoms, and to forge closer alliances with the democracies of the West.

Notably, while opposed to the economic and foreign policies of the Congress government, Rajaji shared Nehru’s commitment to inter-faith harmony and the rights of minorities.

Swatantra mounted a vigorous intellectual and ideological challenge to the Congress. However, neither it nor other Opposition parties were able to make much of a dent in the political supremacy of the Congress. For, as, Rajaji ruefully remarked: “It is the expensiveness of the election campaigns and the monopoly of funds that it commands that chiefly contribute to the Congress Party’s success.”

This, again, resonates with the present, when the BJP’s control of the State machinery and the opacity of the electoral bonds scheme (which the Supreme Court has surprisingly not struck down) give the ruling party considerable advantages over its opponents, particularly at the time of general elections.

Some works of scholarship endure and are worth reading decades after they were published. But this is virtually never the case with newspaper or magazine articles, which are usually forgotten very soon after they are published. Rajaji’s essays of 1957 and 1958 are a remarkable exception. For the dangers to Indian democracy, and to India itself, posed by the dominance of a single party

are even greater now than they were six decades ago.

While recognizing their flaws and insecurities, Rajaji could yet acknowledge that Nehru and his colleagues were ‘good men’, which is not the sort of description one would use for the men in power today. The BJP of Modi and Shah is ruthless, amoral, and, above all, majoritarian.

It is far more hostile to democratic values and democratic practices than the Congress of the Nehru years ever was.

The arrogance of the ruling party and the obsession with building a personality cult around the prime minister are important reasons why, despite two successive majorities, the record of the BJP in office is so dismal on all fronts, leading to a decline in the economy, stresses on the social fabric, and our precipitous fall in the eyes of the neighbourhood and the world.

Two terms of BJP (mis)rule at the Centre have cost the country and its citizens dearly.

A third term for the BJP might be catastrophic for India.

Our country needed a vital, vigorous Opposition in the late 1950s; and it needs such an Opposition far more in the early 2020s. This, to invoke Rajaji one last time, must be ‘an Opposition that thinks differently and does not just want more of the same’, an Opposition ‘that appeals to reason and acts on the firm faith that India can be governed well as a democratic Republic, and that the have-nots will not reject sound reason.’

Ramachandra Guha (As published in The Telegraph Online)

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.

Maha govt puts ball in Centre’s court NO PROVISION FOR STATE GOVT TO INSTALL OR REMOVE LOUDSPEAKERS

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray during a programme in Mumbai, Monday. (PTI)

ment and the MNS and BJP over the issue of loudspeakers and the recital of Hanuman Chalisa is likely to intensify further with senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis saying that if the government wants to use the ways of Hitler, “we will prefer struggle over dialogue. This has become our mindset, so we have decided to boycott the meeting”.

He was referring to the arrest of Independent MP Navneet Rana and her MLA husband Ravi Rana following protests by Shiv-

sainiks against their call to recite Hanuman Chalisa outside CM Uddhav Thackeray’s residence in Mumbai on April 23.

Talking to reporters after the all-party meeting, Walse Patil said the issue of ‘azaan’ was also discussed. He said if a stand is taken against one community, then the consequences of the same on other communities should also be considered.

“When a stand is taken (against) a particular community then what are its consequences on other

No hope from PM’s Jammu visit: Mufti

S R I NAG A R , A P R 2 5 (PTI): PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said her party did not see any hope in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech in Jammu, alleging that the BJP-led Centre has pushed the youngsters of Jammu and Kashmir towards despondency.

“What hope can we have? The prime minister spoke about the youngsters and the future of Jammu and Kashmir. What future do they have? As if the PSA (Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act) was not enough, youngsters are now being booked under the UAPA,” the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief told reporters here.

She said Modi’s statement was ironic as opportunities of employment and business in Jammu and Kashmir are being given to outsiders.

“Jobs are going out, mining leases and liquor licences are also given to outsiders. The electricity produced in Jammu and Kashmir powers homes and factories across the country, but the situation in Kashmir is terrible on this front as well,” Mufti said.

She said the Centre has put up the land of Jammu and Kashmir for sale, adding, “It is offering a 50per cent stamp duty reduc-

Mehbooba Mufti

tion for people buying land here.”

The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister also hit out at Modi for maintaining silence over Muslims facing violence across the country.

“The livelihood of Muslims, their homes and their dignity are being bulldozed in (Delhi’s) Jahangirpuri, right near the prime minister’s residence, but he is doing nothing about it,” she alleged.

Mufti said as a Muslim majority state, Jammu and Kashmir had acceded to India based on the principles of secularism.

“We thought Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians will live together. But that is not happening now.

Muslims, the largest minority in the country, are a scared lot,” she added.

Mufti said the prime minister’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir comes in the backdrop of him being a “silent spectator” when 20

crore Muslims were “facing bulldozers”.

“He comes to visit Jammu and Kashmir, which he left no stone unturned to destroy. Our rights have been snatched.... We have been reduced from a state to a Union Territory. Outsiders are being given preference in jobs here, while people from Jammu and Kashmir are being dismissed,” she alleged.

The PDP president further alleged that the BJP-led Centre has “not only bulldozed democracy, but the Constitution as well”.

Asked about elections in Jammu and Kashmir, she said she has not heard anything about it.

“The way they (Centre) are controlling Jammu and Kashmir by a remote control, we do not foresee any news about elections,” Mufti said.

In his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution in August 2019, Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of several projects worth around Rs 20,000 crore for the Union Territory on Sunday.

In a message to the youngsters of Jammu and Kashmir, the prime minister said unlike their parents and grandparents, they would not have to live a life of trouble.

communities, religious events (should also be considered)..because there are bhajans, kirtans, aartis in villages,” he said.

Walse Patil said the all-party meeting decided that the government should take all steps to maintain law and order in the state and work accordingly.

The Supreme Court had given a decision on the use (regulations) of loudspeakers in 2005. Subsequently, other courts have also given rulings in this regard.

Walse Patil said the Maharashtra government between 2015 and 17 came out with some GRs (government resolutions) and circulars on the use of loudspeakers and the permission for their usage including the timings and decibel limits. Based on it, loudspeakers are used in the state.

“There is no provision that the government can decide on installing or removing loudspeakers.

Those who have installed loudspeakers, those who use it, will have to take care of the regulation,” he said.

Days of relief over, mercury back in 40s in Delhi NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): The maximum temperature at the Safdarjung Observatory -- Delhi’s base station -- breached the 40-degree mark on Monday and a heatwave will see it soaring to 44 degrees Celsius by Thursday. Several parts of the national capital recorded their maximum temperature above the 42-degree mark, with Sports Complex being the warmest place in the city at 43.1 degrees Celsius.

Winds gusting up to 50 kilometres per hour and a drizzle provided slight relief from the heat in some areas on Monday night.

Partly cloudy weather due to a western disturbance over Afghanistan had provided some relief from a prolonged heatwave spell in northwest India. However, another punishing heatwave is in the offing, a Meteorological Department official said.

The maximum temperature may even rise to 46 degrees Celsius in parts of Delhi, he said.A yellow alert warning has been issued for a heatwave spell in the national capital starting April 28.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) uses four colour codes for weather warnings -- green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared) and red.

NEET issue: Stalin launches scathing attack on Gov nor’s post.” He questioned how a “nominated governor” can return a Bill or “prevent it” and wondered if he was bigger than people.

“Do you think you are running a massive empire,”

he asked.

He wondered whether Governors “poked their nose” in BJP-ruled States and asked if the States would remain quiet if they did.

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CHENNAI, APR 25 (PTI): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M K Stalin on Monday launched a scathing attack on Governor RN Ravi over the anti-NEET Bill, saying the State was not asking for his approval for the Bill but to send it for Presidential assent like a “postman.”

The Governor does not have the authority to grant his approval to the Bill, adopted in the State Assembly twice during the DMK rule, seeking exemption from the ambit of the National Entrance-cum-Eligibility Test (NEET) for Tamil Nadu, he said.

Addressing a public

meeting here organised by the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK), Stalin recalled his government’s efforts to do away with NEET, including pressing the issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We are not asking the Governor for approval for the bill. The Governor does not have the authority to do so. What we ask is, send the Bill to the President,” he said.

Quoting DK chief K Veeramani, Stalin said the Governor “should do the job of a postman,” by referring the Bill to the President and that his refusal to “to do even the postal department’s job doesn’t befit the Gover-

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BJP identifies weak booths

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): With an eye on 2024 general elections, the BJP has identified 73,000 polling booths where it is weak and has constituted a committee to strengthen the party’s position on them, sources said on Monday.

Majority of these booths are in southern and eastern states, the sources said, adding that the party is also contemplating to draw a blue print for strengthening its position in 150 Lok Sabha constituencies where it has not done well in previous several polls.

Chaired by BJP’s vice president Baijayant Panda, the committee has party general secretaries CT Ravi and Dilip Ghosh, and party’s SC cell head Lal Singh Arya as its members, they said.

The committee has drafted a report suggesting the strategy for strengthening the BJP on these booths, the sources said.

The report is likely to be placed in the meeting of BJP’s general secretaries on Monday and then a strategy will be finalised which will be communicated to the respective state units, they said.

USCIRF recommends designating India, 14 others as ‘Country of Particular Concern’

WASHINGTON, APR 25 (PTI): A US Congressconstituted quasi-judicial body on Monday recommended to the Biden Administration to designate India, China, Pakistan, Afghanistan and 11 other nations as “Country of Particular Concern” in the context of status of religious freedom.

India has in the past said that the American body on international religious freedom has chosen to be guided only by its biases on a matter on which it has no locus standi.

The recommendations of the US Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) are not binding on the US Government.

Other countries recommended for this designation by the USCIRF in its annual report are Burma, Eritrea, Iran, Nigeria, North Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Vietnam. The USCRF had made a similar recommendation to the US government last year which was not accepted by the Biden Administration.

India has previously

rejected the reports by USCIRF. “Our principled position remains that we see no locus standi for a foreign entity to pronounce on the state of our citizens’ constitutionally protected rights,” the ministry of external affairs had said in the past.

“We have a robust public discourse in India and constitutionally mandated institutions that guarantee protection of religious freedom and rule of law,” the MEA had said.

Among its recommendations last year, five countries -- Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, Syria, and Vietnam – are not designated as Country of Particular Concern by the US

Government.

“In 2021, religious freedom conditions in India significantly worsened.

During the year, the Indian government escalated its promotion and enforcement of policies— including those promoting a Hindu-nationalist agenda—that negatively affect Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, and other religious minorities,” USCIRF said. “ T h e g ove r n m e n t continued to systemize its ideological vision of a Hindu state at both the national and state levels through the use of both existing and new laws and structural changes hostile to the country’s religious minorities,” it said.

MoD amends military acquisition procedure NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): The armed forces will have to source military hardware under modernisation drive from the domestic industry and their import should only be an exception, the ministry of defence said on Monday, announcing major changes in India’s defence acquisition procedure.

The ministry also decided to dispense with the requirement of the Integrity Pact Bank Guarantee (IPBG) to reduce the financial burden on the Indian defence industry, a move aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing.

It said Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) will be taken as bid security for all acquisition cases costing more than Rs 100 crore.

“Going forward all moder nisation requirements of the defence services and Indian Coast Guard are to be indigenously sourced irrespective of the nature of the procurement,” the ministry said in a statement.

It said import of defence equipment and sourcing them from the foreign industry under capital acquisitions should only be an exception and undertaken with specific approval of the defence acquisition council or the defence minister.

“As advised by the

Ministry of Finance and to reduce the financial burden on the Indian defence industry whilst maintaining financial safeguards, the requirement of Integrity Pact Bank Guarantee (IPBG) has been dispensed with,” the ministry said.

“Instead, Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) will be taken as a bid security for all acquisition cases with Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) cost more than Rs 100 crore,” it added.

The ministry said the EMD will be valid for the selected vendor up to the signing of contracts and returned to remaining vendors post declaration of selection.

“Post contract, integrity pact will be covered through the performance cum warranty bank guarantee (PWBG). Further, as per extant government of India policy, EMD is not required from Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs),” it said.

To encourage wider participation and a broad base of indigenous defence manufacturing sector in the country, the total order quantities in acquisition cases are to be split between shortlisted vendors, wherever viable, according to the ministry.

“Further, the other technically qualified bidders who have not been awarded contract will be issued a certificate by the services indicating that the product has been successfully trial evaluated, to facilitate vendors to explore other markets,” it said.

The defence ministry also decided to cut waiting time for projects under the iDEX framework.

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LOUDSPEAKER ISSUE

MUMBAI, APR 25 (PTI): There is no provision for the state government to either install or remove loudspeakers, Maharashtra Home Minister Dilip Walse Patil said on Monday after an all-party meeting on the issue and asked the Centre to formulate guidelines since the order on loudspeakers had been given by the Supreme Court.

The BJP boycotted the all-party meeting and sought to know whether the state home minister has any authority to decide on the issue if the chief minister is not present at the meeting. The BJP has demanded that the Supreme Court’s guidelines (on loudspeakers) be followed strictly.

MNS chief Raj Thackeray too didn’t attend the meeting.Walse Patil’s statement comes days ahead of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray’s ultimatum to the state government to remove loudspeakers atop mosques ends on May 3.

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The iDEX programme was launched in 2018 as an ecosystem to foster innovation and technology development in the defence and aerospace sectors by engaging innovators and entrepreneurs.

“To enable the budding startup talent pool of the country to contribute towards the twin mantras of self-sufficiency and indigenisation, the procurement process under the iDEX procedure of DAP (Defence Acquisition Procedure) 2020 has been simplified.

“With this simplification, time taken from grant of AoN to signing of the contract will be reduced to 22 weeks,” the ministry said.

It said the Make-II procedure of DAP-2020, involving indigenisation of defence equipment through industry-funded projects at the prototype development stage has been simplified by incorporating single-stage composite trials of prototypes and dispensing off with quantity vetting and scaling for initial procurements.

8

Natural farming need of the hour: Amitabh Kant

It stated that Ros, which had undergone modernization (fully digitalized), had no leeway to indulge in adulteration and manipulation since all modernized ROs were under 24X7 surveillance by the concern Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

ANPDU said that it was, therefore, not acceptable to “sweep all the other innocent and clean ROs under the same spectrum of illegal racket.”

The union explained that fuel tankers which supply Nagaland were constantly monitored through an app called Vehicle tracking system. “It is digitally locked as soon as they leave the loading depot enroute to the concerned RO and an OTP is received by the receiving RO to open the digital lock to decant the products.

The union said that the system was put in place to discourage the fuel tankers from opening the locks en route. It claimed that adulterated products will never Amitabh Kant match the density of the loaded products mentioned in farming method. It is con- promote chemical farm- the challan provided by the concerned OMCs for that sidered as an agroecology- ing but it will be difficult particular load. based diversified farming to promote natural farmsystem which integrates ing. He observed that India crops, trees and livestock is in a position to choose with functional biodiversity. an alternative of chemical (From p-1) Speaking at the event, farming as the country is a responsibilities diligently with no adverse record thus NITI Aayog member (Ag- food-surplus country now. far. riculture) Ramesh Chand N I T I A ayo g Vi c e “It is an honour and great privilege to serve our people said there are many methods Chairman Rajiv Kumar said as a member in the council of ministers headed by you of natural farming that can the time is ripe to encourage and look forward to work in close coordination till such be adopted, such as organic natural farming and share time I enjoy the confidence of your good self and the BJP farming, diversification and its benefits with the people party,” Patton wrote and added that he respected Rio’s agroecological farming. at large, especially farmers. recent exercise as his prerogative in effecting allocation or “Through our shared “The shared experiences re-allocation of portfolios. experiences, it’s crucial to of states will help build a Patton further assured Rio that he along with all understand the pros and robust roadmap to adopt BJP legislators, stand firm with the pre-poll alliance comcons of each of the meth- innovative agricultural prac- mitments made with NDPP and would continue to work ods,” he added. Chand tices in the country,” Kumar for the interest of the present coalition government and noted that it was easy to added. welfare of the people.

Patton declines LRD

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ment and no political turmoil. Rio said Sankaranarayanan also had excellent relations with political parties across the spectrum in the State and the people of Nagaland would remember him for his diligence, intelligence and humour.

Describing him as a good person, and a perfect gentleman in his dealings with everyone, Rio said he dedicated his life to the service of the nation and its people and in his death the nation has lost a good politician with a golden heart.

Rio, on behalf of his family and the people of Nagaland, expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved

peace.

Speaker: NLA speaker Sharingain Longkumer expressed pain to hear about the passing away of K. Sankaranarayanan.

Sharingain said late Sanakaranarayanan was a man who made himself lovable to all sections of the people of the State and admired by all for his courage, conviction, dynamism, wisdom and his bold administration. His contributions over his long political career have brightened the lives of millions of our people, he added. In his death, Sharingain said the State of Kerala in particular and the country as a whole has lost a leader

and the people of Nagaland a very good friend and a visionary leader.

The speaker, on behalf of the legislators and on his own behalf conveyed heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and prayed for the soul to rest in eternal peace.

DyCM: Deputy CM Y Patton, while condoling the demise of K. Sankaranarayanan, said that the nation has lost a tall visionary leader.

On behalf of the state BJP legislators, Patton conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed to rest in peace.

Gold declines by Rs 316; silver tanks Rs 1,010

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): Gold in the national capital on Monday declined

by Rs 316 to Rs 51,872 per 10 gram in line with fall in international precious metal prices, according to HDFC Securities.

In the previous trade, the precious metal finished at Rs 52,188 per 10 gram.

Silver also tanked Rs 1,010 to Rs 65,443 per kg from Rs 66,453 per kg in the previous trade. In the international market, gold was trading lower at USD 1,921 per ounce and

silver declined marginally pan Patel, Senior Analyst to USD 23.78 per ounce. (Commodities), HDFC “Gold prices traded weak Securities. with spot gold prices at COMEX trading at USD WANTED 1,921 per ounce on MonLooking for an experienced day.

Gold prices declined Chef immediately for Food Truck. on expectations of higher- Location : Supply Colony, Dimapur (Salary : Rs. 15000) than-expected rate hike Lodging and Fooding will be from US FED and rally in provided as well.

US bond yields,” said TaContact : 8132836727 dp-1838/22

(NPN): Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) has directed butchers selling meat/meat products (Beef/ Pork) in the open/road side to stop such odd practices immediately and relocate to proper places.

In a notification, Dimapur Municipal Council administrator Albert Ezung also directed butchers to obtain trade license by following strict guidelines of veterinary public health cell, Dimapur Municipal Council.

Meanwhile, Dimapur Municipal Council has also requested concerned colony authorities to check such practices in their respective colonies and take necessary course of action against the defaulters.

LAND FOR SALE at Singrijan, Dimapur Rate: Rs. 90/sq. ft.

Contact No.: 9862991691 8974221144 dp-1835/22

THE VIRTUAL ACADEMY DIMAPUR : NAGALAND

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LAND FOR SALE

At Old Showuba Lane 32, approach road touched, near four lane. plots of different sizes available, ideal for residential/commercial purpose @ Rs. 220/- per sq.ft. (Negotiable).

Contact Nos. 9436006729 db-332/22 9972697405

dp-1721/22

which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading 0.34% higher at 101.56. Global oil benchmark Brent crude futures fell 4.38% to USD 101.98 per barrel.

The 30-share BSE Sensex ended 617.26 points or 1.08% lower at 56,579.89, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 218 points or 1.27% to 16,953.95. “The Indian rupee declined on Monday amid risk-off sentiments in global markets. There are increased expectations that US Federal Reserve may hike interest rates by 50 bps in upcoming FOMC meet next week as indicated by Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s speech last week.

LAND FOR SALE

FOR SALE

2 BIGHAS LAND IN DOBAGAON ANY SIZE 160 PER SQ. FEET CONtACt : 6909697260 9856280219 dp-1814/22

1. Padumpukhuri Rs. 310/ sq. ft.

2. Kushiabill Rs. 125/ sq. ft.

Contact : 8787826923

LAND FOR SALE

FOR SALE

@Dimapur Main town Size: 50×50 Price: 21,25,000 Size: 40×40 Price: 13,60,000 & 2 Bighas Price: Negotiable Duncan Size: 3100 sq.ft (Approx) Price: 29,50,000 (Negotiable) For details call: +91 8798439412

LAND FOR SALE

Location: Unity Village near playground Area: 12000 sq ft Price: 350/- per sq ft (Negotiable) Contact no: 8257879275

1. NOtUN BOSti Land with building 2. NihOtO Near Naga United 3. AOyiM Contact: 9862954673

SALVATION MINISTRY DUNCAN BOSTI Dimapur, Nagaland

Lucky draw has been extended to 13th May 2022.

Kindly bear with the inconveniences.

URgENt OpENiNgS (JOBS) * UK Voice Process * Sales Advisor- Outbound * Candidates must have good communication skills * 10+2 & Graduates (Experienced/Freshers) Job Location : Dimapur Send your resume to hr@ogset.com Contact @ 9077455098

dp-1840/22

M U M BA I , A P R 2 5 (PTI): The rupee declined 26 paise to close at 76.68 (provisional) against the US dollar on Monday, tracking a strong greenback overseas and a lacklustre trend in the domestic equity markets.

At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened lower at 76.58 against the American currency, and finally settled for the day at 76.68, down 26 paise over its previous close.

During the trading session, the rupee witnessed an intra-day high of 76.55 and a low of 76.77. On Friday, the rupee had closed 25 paise lower at 76.42. Meanwhile, the dollar index,

LOST NOTICE

I, Meribeni Kikon am applying for duplicate copy of BA 3 rd year Admit Card, Nagaland University as I have lost it.

Name : Meribeni Kikon F/Name : Akhango Kikon Roll No. : B061192 Reg. No. : 31042384 of 2005-06 College : Pranabananda Women's College, Dimapur Contact No. : 7005291410

dp-1839/22

KAKURO

straightforward personality, they said.

In his demise, NGBF said they have lost a respected leader and a good advisor who had contributed immensely for GB’s welfare. The federation conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.

TSUD: Tenyimi Students’ Union Dimapur (TSUD) has expressed deep anguish and regret over the sudden demise of T.L. Angami, Head GB and chairman of Industrial Village Razhupe and founder and former president of NGBF TSUD vice president Sotilo Seb said that T.L Angami was a man of honour and integrity who always worked for the upliftment of the society.

His visionary works and contribution towards the upliftment of the people will be deeply cherished and remembered, TSUD said, adding that his demise has left a vacuum which will would be difficult to fill. The union conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.

Rupee dives 26 paise to DMC directs Gov leads in condoling demise of Sankaranarayanan (From p-1) family and prayed for the de- of rare acumen and politiclose at 76.68 against USD D I Mbutchers transition of govern- parted soul to rest in eternal cal and administrative skills APUR, APR 25

dp-18.3/22

Crossword

the integration of all the Naga areas. He said TL Angami was always there whenever Nagas needed him the most.

“His integrity and the spirit to serve the Naga people shall always be remembered. He left behind a legacy which will inspire the generations to come,” Muivah stated.

Muivah, on behalf of the Naga nation, offered prayers to the Almighty God to comfort the near and dear ones of late TL Angami and prayed for his soul to rest in eternal peace.

NGBF: Nagaland GB Federation (NGBF) has expressed pain and grieve to learn about the sudden demise of T.L. Angami.

NGBF president Shalem Konyak and general secretary Shikuto Zalipu said that TL Angmai was a prominent leader of the GBs and the founder of NGBF and also the former president from 1984 to 2000.

They said that the NGBF had celebrated 25th year of its inception in 2009 under TL Angami’s convenership. He was remembered for his manly character and known for his

dp-1702/22

DoPN declares May, October...

(From p-1) voltage, sub-transmission and distribution lines. To this effect, the department said it had issued a circular on April 8 to all working divisions for implementation.

Stressing that assistance of village councils, colony councils, NGOs and public in general would be required for successfully carrying out the exercise, the department appealed to the general public to extend support and cooperation during the vegetation/ jungle clearance exercise and also provide necessary information to the department wherever such activities were required.

(From p-1) He also said that T.L Angami was attributed with the formation of Nagaland GB’s Federation as its founder and have authored the book “Customary Law of the Angami Naga”.

He also served APO as the president from 20052008 and dedicated his life in the servitude of Naga tribe and his own community through various capacities, Chatsu said.

With his demise, APO said that the Angami community and Nagas in general have lost one of the most decorated and respected citizens and the contributions of T.L Angami will be forever etched in the annals of Naga history.

APO conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that God Almighty grant peace and solace and for the soul to rest in eternal peace.

Muivah: NSCN (IM) general secretary Th. Muivah has expressed deep sadness to hear the demise of TL Angami while undergoing treatment.

Muivah said that late TL Angami always stood firm on the Naga unity and

dp-1837/22

(From p-1) within a timeframe and fulfil the aspirations of the people in the sectors of education, health and employment.

Also speaking on the occasion, chief minister Neiphiu Rio thanked Munda for showing concern for the tribal communities in the country. Rio suggested building KVMH with Naga motifs so that it became an attraction for tourists since Kohima being is a historical village.

In his brief address Higher Education and Tribal Affairs minister Temjen Imna Along urged Kohima village to give NOC, adding that the first phase of Rs 5 crore was sanctioned to the Tribal Affairs Department.

He hoped that KVMH would not only cater to the needs of Kohima village but of other villages and organisations as well.

CM, APO, Muivah others condole demise

dp-1775/22

Govt committed to develop..

Su doku

(From p-1)

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

db-335/22

NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): Natural farming is the need of the hour, as the cost of foodgrain production has increased due to the use of chemicals and fertilisers, NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant said on Monday.

Addressing the ‘National Workshop on Innovative Agriculture’ organised

by NITI Aayog, Kant further said, India is now an exporter of wheat and rice.

“Natural farming is the need of the hour and it is important that we identify scientific ways through which we can ensure farmers can directly benefit from it, thereby increasing their income,” he said.

Kant added: “The cost of production of foodgrain and vegetables rose due to excess use of chemicals and fertilisers.” The NITI Aayog CEO pointed out that due to inefficient supply chain and imperfect market linkages, India’s agriculture sector productivity is less. Natural Farming is a chemical-free

BUSINESS/STATE ANPDU demands arrest of culprits

Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron celebrate with supporters in Paris, France, Sunday. (AP/PTI)

and the war in Ukraine reminds us that we are going through tragic times where France must make its voice heard,” Macron said.

During her campaign, Le Pen pledged to dilute French ties with the 27-nation EU, NATO and Germany, moves that would have shaken Europe’s security architecture as the continent deals with its worst conflict since World War II. Le Pen also spoke out against EU sanctions on Russian energy supplies and faced scrutiny during the campaign over her previous friendliness with the Kremlin.

A chorus of European leaders hailed Macron’s victory, since France has played a leading role in international efforts to punish Russia with sanctions and is supplying weapons to Ukraine.

“Democracy wins, Europe wins,” said Span-

ish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

“Together we will make France and Europe advance,” tweeted European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Italian Premier Mario Draghi hailed Macron’s victory as “splendid news for all of Europe” and a boost to the EU “being a protagonist in the greatest challenges of our times, starting with the war in Ukraine.”

Ukrainian President Volodymy Zelenskyy called Macron “a true friend of Ukraine” on Sunday and expressed appreciation for his support.

Tweeting in French, Zelenskyy said: “I’m convinced that we will advance together toward new joint victories. Toward a strong and united Europe!”

With more than fourfifths of votes counted, Macron was leading 56%

World’s oldest person dies in Japan at 119

Kane Tanaka was the second-oldest person ever recorded.

TOKYO, APR 25 (PTI): The world’s oldest person from the southwestern Japanese city of Fukuoka died at the age of 119 on April 19, the government said on Monday.

Kane Tanaka was born on January 2 in 1903, the year Wright Brothers -- Wilbur and Orville Wright -- made the world’s first successful flight of powered aircraft, Japan’s Kyodo news agency reported.

Famous people born in 1903 included British novelist George Orwell,

Israel responds to rocket fire from southern Lebanon JERUSALEM, APR 25 (AP): Israeli tanks fired into southern Lebanon early on Monday in response to a rocket fired from the country, the Israeli military said.

The incident along Israel’s northern border comes at a time of heightened tensions between Israelis and Palestinians.

Recent weeks have seen a string of deadly attacks inside Israel, lethal arrest raids by Israel in the occupied West Bank and rocket attacks into Israel launched from the Hamascontrolled Gaza Strip, as well as clashes in a key Jerusalem holy site.

It has been the worst violence to shake the region since an 11-day war between Israel and Gaza militants last year. In a statement, the Israeli military said the rocket landed in an open area in northern Israel early Monday, causing no damage or injuries.

Shortly after, the military said it struck “the sources of the projectile launched and an infrastructure target in southern Lebanon.”

film director Yasujiro Ozu and Japanese poet Misuzu Kaneko.

According to the report, Tanaka, whose life spanned several Japanese imperial eras -- Meiji, Taisho, Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa, was born just a year before the outbreak of the Russo-Japanese War in 1904.

She was recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest person in March 2019 at the age of 116.

Tanaka also became the oldest person ever on

record in Japan after turning 117 years and 261 days old in September 2020.

Apart from being the oldest verified Japanese person ever, Tanaka was also the second oldest verified person ever in the world.

The seventh of nine siblings, Tanaka married when she was 19 and later ran a noodle shop when her husband Hideo and their eldest son went to fight in the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937. The couple ran a rice cake store after the war.

Tanaka ascribed her longevity to “eating delicious food”, including soda and chocolate, as well as “learning” new things.

She was also fond of calligraphy and liked to solve arithmetic problems.

She spent her later years in a Fukuoka nursing home, where she enjoyed playing the board game Reversi, among other activities.

to 44% for Le Pen. Polling agencies projected that once all votes were counted, Macron’s margin of victory would be well above 10 points, although that would be much closer than when they first faced off in 2017.

Macron is the first French president in 20 years to win reelection, since incumbent Jacques Chirac trounced Le Pen’s father in 2002.

Le Pen called her results “a shining victory,” saying that “in this defeat, I can’t help but feel a form of hope.”

Breaking through the threshold of 40% of the vote is unprecedented for the French far-right. Le Pen was beaten 66% to 34% by Macron in 2017 and her father got less than 20% against Chirac.

She and hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon, one of 10 candidates eliminated in the first round on April 10, both quickly pitched forward Sunday night to France’s legislative election in June, urging voters to give them a parliamentary majority to hamstring Macron.

Le Pen’s score this time rewarded her years-long efforts to make her far-right politics more palatable to voters. Campaigning hard on cost-of-living issues, she made deep inroads among blue-collar voters in disaffected rural communities and in former industrial centers.

Russia expels 40 German diplomats MOSCOW, APR 25 (AP): Russia is expelling 40 German diplomats in response to Germany expelling the same number of Russian diplomats earlier this month.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said Monday that it had summoned German ambassador Géza Andreas von Geyr for a “strong protest at the clearly unfriendly decision” to expel the Russian diplomatic staff.

The ministr y said von Geyr was told that 40 members of staff at German diplomatic missions in Russia would be officially declared unwelcome in Russia.

Germany announced the expulsion of 40 Russian diplomats on Apr. 4 following mounting evidence of civilian killings and mass graves in Bucha, near the Ukrainian capital Kyiv.

Russia hits rail, fuel facilities in attacks deep in Ukraine KYIV, APR 25 (AP): Russia unleashed a string of attacks against Ukrainian rail and fuel facilities Monday, striking crucial infrastructure far from the front line of its eastern offensive, which Britain said has yet to achieve a significant breakthrough.

Meanwhile, two fires were reported at oil facilities in western Russia. It was not clear what caused the blazes.

As both sides in the 2-month-old war brace for what could be a grinding battle of attrition in the country’s eastern industrial heartland, top American officials pledged more help to ensure Ukraine prevails.

In meetings with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Sunday, the American secretaries of state and defense said Washington had approved a $165 million sale of ammunition for Ukraine’s war effort, along with more than $300 million in foreign military financing.

“The strategy that we’ve put in place — massive support for Ukraine, massive pressure against

Russia, solidarity with more than 30 countries engaged in these efforts — is having real results,” Blinken told reporters in Poland the day after the meeting.

“When it comes to Russia’s war aims, Russia is failing. Ukraine is succeeding,” he added.

Speaking Monday to top officials at the Prosecutor General’s office, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the U.S. and its allies have tried and failed to “split Russian society and to destroy Russia from within.”

When Russia invaded on Feb, 24, its apparent goal was a lightning offensive that would quickly take the capital and perhaps even topple the government in Kyiv.

But the Ukrainians, aided by Western weapons, bogged Putin’s troops down and thwarted their push to Kyiv.

Moscow now says its focus in the eastern region of the Donbas, but one senior military official says it also wants to control southern Ukraine. While both

sides said the campaign in the east has begun, it has yet to gather steam.

A small g roup of Ukrainian troops holed up in a steel plant in the strategic city of Mariupol are tying down Russian forces, and keeping them from being added to the offensive elsewhere in the Donbas, Britain’s Ministry of Defense said Monday.

Over the weekend, Russian forces launched fresh airstrikes on the steel plant in an attempt to dislodge the estimated 2,000 fighters inside. An estimated 1,000 civilians are also sheltering in the steelworks, and the Russian military pledged to open a humanitarian corridor Monday for them to leave.

Mariupol has endured fierce fighting since the start of the war because of its strategic location on the Sea of Azov. In addition to freeing up Russian troops, its capture would deprive Ukraine of a vital port and allow Moscow to establish a land corridor to the Crimean Peninsula, which it seized from Ukraine in 2014.

Fake Twitter accs spread Chinese propaganda

US promises more Ukraine aid, Biden announces veteran envoy

BEIJING, APR 25 (AP): A US-based intelligence company says it uncovered a network of more than 600 inauthentic Twitter accounts that spread a positive narrative of China’s far-western Xinjiang region, as Beijing was being accused of human rights abuses and locking up hundreds of thousands of Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities there.

According to a report released Monday by Nisos, 648 Twitter accounts posted several thousand tweets with hashtags such as #xinjiang, #forcedlabor and #humanrights, with seemingly innocuous content such as traditional dancing and scenic photos, as well as videos with individuals denying that forced labor exists in Xinjiang. The network and its tweets appear to be intended to promote “a positive narrative regarding Xinjiang and Uyghur treatment within the People’s Republic of China” and actively targeted a foreign audience, the report found. The report comes as China is being criticised internationally for its treatment of Uyghurs, a Turkic ethnic group native to the Xinjiang region. In recent years, China held hundreds of thousands of Uyghurs in what Beijing calls “vocational education and training centers” but are widely believed by experts and academics to be internment camps.

NEAR THE POLISHUKRAINIAN BORDER, APR 25 (AP): Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Monday after a secrecy-shrouded visit to Kyiv that Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskyy is committed to winning his country’s fight against Russia and that the United States will help him achieve that goal.

“He has the mindset that they want to win, and we have the mindset that we want to help them win,” Austin told reporters in Poland, the day after the three-hour face-to-face meeting with Zelenskyy in Ukraine.

Austin said that the nature of the fight in Ukraine had changed now that Russia has pulled away from the wooded northern regions to focus on the eastern industrial heartland of the Donbas. Because the nature of the fight has evolved, so have Ukraine’s military needs, and Zelenskyy is now focused on more tanks, artillery and other munitions.

“The first step in winning is believing that you can win,” Austin said.

“We believe that they can win if they have the right equipment, the right support, and we’re going to do everything we can ... to ensure that gets to them.”

No-trust vote against Lankan govt on the cards COLOMBO, APR 25 (PTI): A Sri Lankan dissident lawmaker, fired by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa from the Cabinet for his critical views, claimed on Monday that the Opposition has crossed the 113-mark required to win a no-trust motion against the government in the 225-member Parliament.

President Gotabaya, facing fierce public protests against his government’s mishandling of the country’s worst economic crisis, had said that he would hand over the government to any group that could muster 113 seats but would not step down from the presidency.

Udaya Gammanpila, who held the energy ministry portfolio before being sacked by Gotabaya Rajapaksa along with industry minister Wimal Weerawansa for openly criticising

then finance minister and the president’s younger brother Basil Rajapaksa, is advocating an all-party interim government with the resignation of prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Gammanpila said that with enough numbers of MPs breaking away from the government and with support from the main Opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Marxist Janatha Vikmuthi Peramuna (JVP) and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), they are assured of winning the no-trust vote.

“We told the SJB to wait till we could get 113, now we have 120,” he claimed.

The SJB, which started collecting signatures to move a no-confidence motion against the government in early April, appeared to have abandoned the effort due to uncertainty of numbers.

OFFICE OF THE

EAST DIMAPUR GB’S ASSOCIATION EAST : DIMAPUR

FELICITATION

The East Dimapur GB’s Association with great pride and joy congratulates Shri. H HONJE KONYAK a bonafide citizen of Model Colony, Purana Bazar East Dimapur on being appointed as the Chairman of Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC).

The Association has huge faith that under your leadership the Nagas will be able to carry forward the dignity of the NPSC Office and promote meritocracy, the Association with great delight congratulates and wishes him good health and success in his new assignment and all of his future endeavors.

(NIUTO AWOMI) President, EDGBSA DB-337/22 OFFICE OF THE

Chümoukedima Chamber of CommerCe & Trade assoCiaTion H.Q. Chümoukedima - 797103

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Chümoukedima Chamber of Commerce and Trade Association do hereby issue this Public notification to the effect that Mr. Vishu Mittro, the proprietor of M/s Dalhu Aluminium House, situated at Ward No. 3, Chümoukedima town has left his business and absconded from Chümoukedima town jurisdiction without assigning any reasons.

It is learned from some of his customers that he had borrowed certain amount of money from his customers.

Accordingly, the CCCTA do hereby notify to the concerned customers to approach the office within 3 days from the publication of this notification with proper documentary proof for claims, if any.

DC-xxxx/22

Abung Pamei Information & Publicity

(From L) Lloyd Austin, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Antony Blinken during their meeting in Kyiv, Monday (AP/PTI)

Asked about what the U.S. sees as success, Austin said that “we want to see Ukraine remain a sovereign country, a democratic country able to protect its sovereign territory. We want to see Russia weakened to the point where it can’t do things like invade Ukraine.” The trip by Blinken and Austin was the highest-level American visit to the capital since Russia invaded in late February.

They told Zelenskyy and his advisers that the U.S. would provide more than USD 300 million in foreign military financing and had approved a USD 165 million sale of ammunition.

“We had an opportunity to demonstrate directly our strong ongoing support for the Ukrainian government and the Ukrainian people,” Blinken said.

“This was, in our judgment, an important moment to be there, to have face-to-face conversations in detail.”

Blinken said their meeting with the Ukrainians lasted for three hours for wide ranging talks, including what help the country needs in the weeks ahead.

“The strategy that we’ve put in place, massive support for Ukraine, massive pressure against Russia, solidarity with more than 30 countries engaged in these efforts, is having real results,” Blinken said.

“When it comes to Russia’s war aims, Russia is failing. Ukraine is succeeding. Russia has sought as its principal aim to totally subjugate Ukraine, to take away its sovereignty, to take away its independence.

That has failed.”

OFFICE OF THE

CENTRAL NAGALAND STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION H.Q. : DIMAPUR, NAGALAND

THE CENTRAL NAGALAND STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXPRESS OUR SINCERE GRATITUDE TO THE GRACIOUS CONTRIBUTION AND PARTICIPATION DURING 4TH GENERAL CONFERENCE OF CNSA HELD AT AGRI EXPO, DIMAPUR ON 18th TO 19th OF APRIL 2022.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 1. SHRI. YANTHUNGO PATTON DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER (CHIEF GUEST) 2. SHRI. KAITO AYE, MINISTER (SPECIAL GUEST) 3. SHRI. TEMJEN IMNA ALONG MINISTER (SPECIAL GUEST) 4. SHRI. IMKONG L IMCHEN, MLA (SPECIAL GUEST) 5. DR. I. ANUNGLA AIER “THEME SPEAKER” 6. SHRI. METSUBO JAMIR, MINISTER 7. SHRI. TONGPANG OZUKUM, MINISTER 8. SHRI. PUKHAYI SUMI, ADVISOR 9. DR. LONGRINEKEN, ADVISOR 10. SHRI. KAZHETO KINIMI, ADVISOR 11. SHRI. MMHONLUMO KIKON, ADVISOR 12. SHRI. TOVIHOTO AYE, ADVISOR 13. SHRI. MOATOSHI LONGKUMER, MLA 14. SHRI. PICUTO SHOHE, MLA 15. SHRI. N. KITOVI ZHIMOMI, CONVENER NNPG 16. SHRI. KIKHETO SEMA IAS APC 17. SHRI. JACOB YANTHAN: ADD/DIRECTOR AGRI 18. ENO. NIKKI SUMI, CHAIRMAN NSCN(K) 19. ENO. ISAK SUMI, ATO KILONSER NSCN GPRN (K) 20. ENO. SHIKAHO ZHIMOMI, PRESIDENT (WSH) 21. DR. SUKHATO SEMA, FAITH HOSPITAL 22. DR. VICTO A. WOTSA, NIKOS HOSPITAL 23. DR. KITAKA SUKHATO WOTSA, M O DIMAPUR 24. ENO. REV. KAIFA EZUNG 25. ENO. CHENITHUNG HUMTSOE 26. ENO. LICHONTHUNG PATTON SDO PHED 27. ARONTO ZHIMO 28. SHRI C. HACHIO PATTON 29. HACHIBEMO PATTON 30. CENTRAL NAGALAND TRIBE COUNCIL (CNTC) 31. PRESIDENT, SUMI HOHO & COLLEAGUES 32. PRESIDENT, AO SENDEN & COLLEAGUES 33. CHAIRMAN LOTHA HOHO & COLLEAGUES 34. ALL SUMI STUDENTS UNION (SKK) 35. AO STUDENTS CONFERENCE (AKM) 36. LOTHA STUDENTS' UNION (LSU) 37. NAGA COUNCIL DIMAPUR 38. WESTERN SUMI YOUTH FRONT (WSYF) 39. WESTERN SUMI STUDENTS' UNION (WSSU) 40. WESTERN SUMI SPORTS ASSOCIATION (WSSA) 41. DIPHUPAR NAGA YOUTH ORGANISATION (DNYO) 42. DIMAPUR AO YOUTH ORGANISATION (DAYO) 43. DIMAPUR LOTHA YOUTH ORGANISATION (DLYO) 44. DIMAPUR NAGA STUDENTS' UNION (DNSU) 45. DIPHUPAR NAGA STUDENTS' UNION (DNSU) 46. DIPHUPAR VILLAGE COUNCIL (DVC) 47. DIPHUPAR SUMI KIPHIMI KUQHAKULU (DSKK) 48. AO STUDENTS' UNION DIPHUPAR (ASUD) 49. LOTHA STUDENTS’ UNION DIPHUPAR (LSUD) 50. MEDICAL TEAM FAITH HOSPITAL 51. DIMAPUR SENIOR CITIZENS INDIGENOUS FORUM (DSCIF) 52. NORTH EAST INDIGENOUS FORUM (NEIF) 53. KUKI STUDENTS ORGANISATION NAGALAND (KSON) 54. GSPORTS CHUMUKIDEMA 55. FORMER LEADERS OF CNSA 56. S. ZHEVIHE SUMI, CONVENER & COMMITTEE MEMBERS 57. ALL PROGRAMME OFFICIALS 58. STEWARDS 59. PRESS & MEDIA FRATERNITY The Association regrets its inability to thank everyone individually but it is our humble prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

DP-1841/22

Macron wins but far-right gains PARIS, APR 25 (AP): French President Emmanuel Macron comfortably won reelection to a second term Sunday, triggering relief among allies that the nuclear-armed power won’t abruptly shift course in the midst of the war in Ukraine from European Union and NATO efforts to punish and contain Russia’s military expansionism.

The second five-year term for the 44-year-old centrist spared France and Europe from the seismic upheaval of having firebrand populist Marine Le Pen at the helm, Macron’s presidential runoff challenger who quickly conceded defeat but was still on course for her best-ever electoral showing.

Acknowledging that “numerous” voters cast ballots for him simply to keep out the fiercely nationalist far-right Le Pen, Macron pledged to reunite the country that is “filled with so many doubts, so many divisions” and work to assuage the anger of French voters that fed Le Pen’s campaign.

“No one will be left by the side of the road,” Macron said in a victory speech against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower and a projection of the blue-white-andred tricolour French flag.

He was cheered by several hundred supporters who happily waved French and EU flags.

“We have a lot to do

9

INTERNATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

HIMATO YEPTHO PRESIDENT

LIPEMO M. TSOPOE GENERAL SECY.

Elon Musk and Twitter reach deal on sale

B

illionaire Elon Musk has reached an agreement to acquire Twitter for approximately $44 billion, the company said.

The outspoken Tesla CEO, the world’s wealthiest person, has said he wants to buy Twitter because he thinks it’s not living up to its potential as a platform for “free speech.” He says it needs to be transformed as a private company in order to build trust with users and do better at serving what he calls the “societal imperative” of free speech.

Twitter said it will become a privately held company after the sale is closed.

“Twitter has a purpose and relevance that impacts the entire world,” its CEO Parag Agrawal said in a tweet.

“Deeply proud of our teams

and inspired by the work that has never been more important.”

Musk describes himself as a “free-speech absolutist,” although he hasn’t been exactly clear what he means by that. In a recent TED interview, the billionaire said he’d like to see Twitter err on the side of allowing speech instead of moderating it. He said he’d be “very reluctant” to delete tweets and would generally be cautious about permanent bans.

He also acknowledged that Twitter would have to abide by national laws governing speech in markets around the world.

Musk himself, though, regularly blocks social media users who have criticized him or his company and has used the platform to bully

Akshay Kumar starts shooting for ‘Soorarai Pottru’ Hindi remake

K Y M C

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

‘The Kashmir Files’ to Being transgender is not a choice: debut on OTT on May 13 Mnp actor recalls journey to recognition

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ivek Agnihotri’s latest directorial, ‘The Kashmir Files’ which tells the story of Kashmiri Pandit exodus and genocide, is set to debut on OTT on May 13 in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.

The film, written and directed by Vivek Agnihotri, stars Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Bhasha Sumbli and Darshan Kumaar.

It presents the story of the void that still looms in the valleys of Kashmir after the Kashmiri Pandits’ exodus that plagued the valley in the early 1990s. It echoes their sense of deprivation, the pain of departure, the fear of existence and the struggle to survive.

Talking about the development, veteran actor Anupam Kher shared in a statement, “’The Kashmir Files’ is a depiction of an incident that happened with

our people, years ago and is still not known to so many.

The success of the film is a testimony to the honesty with which Vivek and the crew have worked on this project.” The film will premiere on ZEE5 on May 13.

Adding to his statement, Anupam continued, “The film received appreciation from all over the nation and now for those who couldn’t watch it on the big screen, ‘The Kashmir Files’ will be available on ZEE5 across the world”.

Darshan Kumaar added to his co-actor, as he said, “’The Kashmir Files’ is very close to my heart as it has been a career defining film for me. I am overjoyed that it has turned out to be one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of the year.

I am looking forward to its premiere on ZEE5 and am excited for it to reach many more people.”

(IANS)

ullied and sometimes beaten as a child for not conforming to gender stereotypes, the stairway to stardom has been steep and arduous for Bishesh Huirem, Manipur’s award-winning actor who says firmly that being a transgender is not a choice.

Huirem, who speaks eloquently of coming to terms with being trapped in a man’s body, was recently conferred the Best Actor trophy by the Manipur State Film Awards for her role in Bobby Wahengbam’s “Apaiba Leichil” (Floating Clouds), which portrays the struggles of third gender people in society.

The award for her debut film, in which she plays a trans person, brought with it national headlines and recognition outside her home state, and also the hope that her success will smoothen the way for others like her.

“Being a transgender is not a choice. Everything comes naturally to us. We develop our outlook just like a girl even though trapped in a man’s body,” Huirem told PTI. “People don’t understand this and think they can change this natural gift through threats and beatings. But it will not work. And not accepting

Are Indoor Plants Good for Mental Health?

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ike many people, you may have spent more Houseplants are an time indoors since easy way to bring the the start of the COVID-19 outdoors and greenpandemic. Decorating your ery into your home house with indoor plants and workplace. Studnot only beautifies your ies have shown that space; it may also have indoor plants are assosome benefits for your menciated with improved tal health. mental health.

Indoor plants and mental health The average person spends more than 85% of their time indoors. Houseplants are an easy way to bring the outdoors and greenery into your home and workplace. Studies have shown that indoor plants are associated with improved mental health. Here are some specific ways that greenery can help your mental wellbeing: Reduced stress Having plants at your home or workplace can help reduce stress. Researchers found that undergraduates who were in a windowless computer lab had lower blood pressure levels when there were plants in the room compared to when there were no plants.

Working on plants can soothe you and lower your stress levels. Researchers asked study participants to repot a houseplant and also to do a task on a computer.

Participants’ heart rate and blood pressure went up when working on the computer task, but their stress levels went down when they were repotting the plant.

Faster recovery and healing The presence of indoor plants may help patients heal faster and reduce medication. In a study of 80 patients who had the same type of surgery, researchers found that those in rooms with flowers and plants had shorter hospital stays and needed less painkillers than those who didn’t have greenery in their rooms.

The patients with plants in their room also had lower ratings of anxiety, fatigue, and pain. They had more positive feelings about their hospital rooms.

Improved productivity Having plants at your workplace is associated with higher productivity, less sick leave, and lower stress levels. Researchers found that having a plant directly in front of you may have a positive effect on your work performance when you are carrying out a creative task.

Less anxiety Exposure to greenery can improve anxiety symptoms. Researchers studied university students who spent

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an average of 20 hours a day at home since the Covid-19 pandemic. Those who had indoor plants or a view of outdoor greenery had less anxiety symptoms.

The students said that having indoor plants gave them the feeling that they were away instead of at home. The presence of plants helped them see their homes as places of restoration and rest, which led to better mental health. This was in spite of having to spend more time at home because all their classes were online during the pandemic.

Improved learning environment Having indoor plants may also help to improve a school’s learning environment. In a junior high school in Taiwan, researchers placed several plants at the back of one eighth grade classroom for one semester. Students in this classroom had significantly fewer hours of absence due to sickness and received less discipline for misbehavior. They also felt more comfortable and friendly compared to students in a classroom with no greenery.

Other benefits of indoor plants Besides beautifying your home and enhancing mental health, houseplants may improve the air quality in your home. Some plants are able to remove air pollutants in your home. These plants include: Purple heart English ivy Waffle plant Porcelain flower Plants can also help increase the humidity in your house. This can be useful in places with dry air and cold climates. Researchers say that green jade plants and variegated spider plants can increase the humidity in a room.

Which indoor plants should you choose?

When buying indoor plants, look for plants that are green, small, and have a slight scent. Researchers studying the effect of indoor plants on stress found that these are the types of plants that make people feel most soothed.

On the other hand, plants that have bright colors, like poinsettia, may cause eye fatigue.

You may want to try growing these easy indoor plants: Air plant Succulents

Aloe vera ZZ plant Snake plant If you have young children or pets, choose plants that are safe for them. There are many common indoor plants that are toxic. Before you bring a new plant home, check with a reliable source like your local poison control center.

These are some common houseplants that may be toxic to young children and pets: Sago palm Aloe Oleander Holly Lilies Azalea Peace lily Umbrella tree

Medical Reviewer: Poonam Sachdev, MD

it could lead to depression and the inability to develop confidence,” the 33-year-old Imphal-based artiste added.

The aim, she said, is to use her profile and and position as an actor to promote a healthy and normal life for people of her community.

Though the Manipur film industry has been employing third gender people as make-up artistes and choreographers, Huirem has emerged as a rare transgender mainstream performer.

“My recognition will hopefully pave the way for others from my community to take up lead and prominent roles as often seen in the traditional theatre form Shumang Leela where trans-

genders play the lead female role. I am optimistic my recognition will make others, even in different fields, judge us based on our talents and skills without any discrimination,” Huirem said.

The film role came after a series of beauty pageants and acting workshops. She said she realised her love for the performing arts as a young child when she started participating in dance competitions during Durga Puja.

The growing up years were difficult.

“My father and elder brother would sometimes beat me up in an effort to make me change my feminine ways. They gave up on their ideas to change me as I entered my teens and especially after I began to win local and state level beauty pageants for transgenders,” she said.

While the school days were not that hard, Huirem had a tough time during her college days at the Bengaluru’s Garden City University when she was made to stay in the boys’ hostel.

“The warden would tell me about my feminine way of dressing and advise me to dress more conservatively for my own safety as I looked more like a woman.”

(PTI)

Office of the

Zhadima Students' Union Kohima : Nagaland Regd. No. RS/2731, Dated 25/08/1994

Ketousienuo Kuotsu Keneilelie Sorünuo The Zhadima Students' Union (ZSU) take immense pride and pleasure in congratulating two of our members for excelling in their respective fields and bringing laurels to the union.

1. Ketousienuo Kuotsu, D/o Khriesavilie Kuotsu, for being conferred Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Anthropology from North Eastern Hill University, Shillong. The title of her thesis is, "Ethnomedical Beliefs and Practices among the Angami Naga", supervised by Prof. Henry Lamin.

2. Keneilelie Sorünuo (Kenny Soru), S/o Lt Dziesevituo Sorünuo, for securing two gold medals at the IBBFF Mr. India National Championship 2022 (Sr. Men's Classic Bodybuilding & Overall Title in Sr. Men's Classic Bodybuilding categories) held at Shree Shivchhatrapati Sports Complex, Pune, Maharashtra on April 18 & 19, 2022. Silver Medal (Men's Classic Bodybuilding Division) at IFBB Mr. Universe 2022, organised by Indian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (IBBFF) held from April 15-17, 2022.

The union, while congratulating the two members, also wishes them the best in their future endeavours and prays to God for their good health and sound mind.

President General Secretary Kevingulie Soliezuo Medolenuo Ambrocia Loucü

LOTHA ELOE HOHO SILVER JUBILEE MUNGYANCHI TONA NZONTSU SANRHYU Tsungon : Ephi 28th-29th 2022 Meta : Tiyi Hall, Wokha

LOTHA ELOE HOHO

Yitumka : Bukleza Eloe jiango ntsinran hoyapvui jiang (Indigenous women as knowledge keepers) -XELOHH 0XQJ\DQFKL /KLQVXQJ (SKL D P 1]RQWVX 6DQUK\X (SKL D P dc-344/22

uperstar Akshay Kumar on Monday announced that he has started filming for his next movie, a Hindi remake of Tamil film “Soorarai Pottru”.

The remake will be directed by Sudha Kongara, who also helmed the Suriya-starrer original, which premiered on Prime Video in November 2020.

Akshay took to Twitter to announce the commencement of the shoot and also asked his fans to drop suggestions for the title of the project.

“With the auspicious coconut-breaking and a small prayer in our heart, we begin the filming of our yet untitled film which is about dreams and the power of it. In case you’ll have any title suggestions, do share and of course your best wishes,” the actor wrote alongside a video from the set with co-actor Radhika Madan and Kongra. “ S o o r a r a i Po t t r u (Praise the brave)” revolved around Nedumaaran Rajangam or “Maara”, who sets out to make the common man fly and in the process takes on the world’s most capital intensive industry with the help of his family, friends and sheer will power. It was partly inspired by events from the life of Air Deccan founder Captain G R Gopinath.

Vikram Malhotra-led Abundantia Entertainment and 2D Entertainment led

by Suriya, Jyothika Sadanah and Rajsekar Pandian will be partnering on the Hindi film Akshay also tagged Capt Gopinath, Malhotra, Suriya and Jyothika in his post.

The Hindi remake was announced last year in July.

(PTI)

reporters who have written critical articles about him or his company.

Twitter’s board at first enacted an anti-takeover measure known as a poison pill that could have made a takeover attempt prohibitively expensive. But when Musk outlined the financial commitments he’d lined up to back his offer of $46.5 billion — and no other bidders emerged — the board opened negotiations with him. In recent weeks, he has voiced a number of proposed changes for the company, from relaxing its content restrictions — such as the rules that suspended former President Donald Trump’s account — to ridding the platform of its problems with fake and automated accounts.

Musk is the world’s wealthiest person, according to Forbes, with a nearly USD 279 billion fortune.

But much of his money is tied up in Tesla stock — he owns about 17 per cent of the company, according to FactSet, which is valued at more than USD 1 trillion — and SpaceX, his privately held space company. It’s unclear how much cash Musk has. (AP)

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Liverpool back on Man City’s tail

L O N D O N, A P R 2 5 (IANS): Liverpool kept pace with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League after a 2-0 win at home over local rivals Everton in the Merseyside derby. While the win late on Sunday means Liverpool are just a point behind City as they look to win four titles this season, Everton drop into the bottom three after Burnley’s win earlier in the day.

Liverpool had 82 per cent of the ball against their neighbours, but it was not until the 62nd minute that left-back Andrew Rober tson opened the scoring with a header.

Luis Diaz was the provider of Liverpool’s second goal with a spectacular overhead kick that sat up perfectly for Divock Origi to seal the win, Xinhua reports.

E a r l i e r, G a b r i e l Jesus scored four goals as Manchester City cruised past relegation-haunted Watford 5-1.

The Brazilian scored in the 4th, 23rd and 52nd minutes, and also netted a 49th-minute penalty as Pep Guardiola’s side enjoyed an easy ride ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League semifinal first leg against Real Madrid.

Hassani Kamara gave Watford brief hope with his goal in the 28th minute, but Rodri’s 34th minute goal for City quickly put the game out of reach.

Christian Pulisic scored a 90th minute goal to give Chelsea a 1-0 win at home over West Ham and spare Jorginho’s blushes. The Brazilian had

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold applaud fans after the Premier League match against Everton.

missed a penalty a minute earlier after Craig Dawson, who was sent off, pulled down Romelu Lukaku to deny him a goalscoring opportunity.

Arsenal moved fourth and virtually ended M a n c h e s t e r U n i t e d ’s slim hopes of a top-four finish with a 3-1 win at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to first half goals from Nuno Tavares and Bukayo Saka, who scored a penalty.

Although the 100th Premier League goal of Cristiano Ronaldo’s career gave United hope in the 34th minute, Bruno Fe r n a n d e s m i s s e d a penalty for the visitors, and Granit Xhaka assured a big win for Arsenal with 20 minutes left to play.

Tottenham were lucky to take a 0-0 draw away to Brentford, who had former Spurs player Christian Eriksen in their starting 11.

Brentford had the best chances with Harry Kane clearing one ball off the line, while Ivan Toney hit headers off the woodwork.

Matej Vydra’s goal from the edge of the sixyard box gave Burnley their second win in two games as they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 at Turf Moor. The win lifts Burnley out of the bottom three and means they have taken two wins and a draw since Sean Dyche’s 10-year tenure as coach came to an end.

Newcastle United continued their excellent second half to the season

Verstappen and ThompsonHerah win top Laureus awards

Max Verstappen and Elaine Thompson-Herah

SEVILLA, APR 25 (AGENCIES): Formula One champion Max Verstappen was named the 2022 Laureus Sportsman of the Year while Olympic sprint champion Elaine Thompson-Herah bagged the top women’s honour at the digital awards ceremony in Seville on Sunday.

Verstappen became the first Dutch driver to win the world championship when he clinched his maiden crown by beating seven-times winner Lewis Hamilton on the final lap of the last race of the 2021 season in Abu Dhabi in December. “Since I was a little kid, I dreamt of being on the top step and winning

the championship,” the 24-year-old Verstappen said.

“It was a lot of hard work and years of preparation. I’m incredibly proud... It means a lot to be recognised for this award, one of the highest ones in the world, so I’m incredibly happy.” Jamaica’s Thompson-Herah became the first woman to win back-to-back Olympic sprint doubles when she retained her 100m and 200m titles in Tokyo last year and capped a memorable Games with gold in the 4x100m relay.

“I know Usain (Bolt) has won Laureus Awards before, so to bring this trophy back home to the Caribbean, also in Jamaica,

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SPORTS

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

is very special,” ThompsonHerah said.

Italy’s soccer team were named Team of the Year for the second time after winning the 2020 European Championship, having previously received the honour after winning the World Cup in 2006.

British teenager Emma Raducanu took the Breakthrough of the Year prize after her fairytale New York triumph in September when she claimed the U.S. Open title as a qualifier.

NFL great Tom Brady, who made a U-turn on his retirement plans this year, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement award after winning a record seventh Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Polish striker Robert Lewandowski of Bayern Munich won the Exceptional Achievement awa r d a f t e r s c o r i n g a German Bundesliga record of 41 goals last season to break Gerd Muller’s 49-yearold mark.

TAN elects new office bearers

and have won 10 of their last 14 games thanks to a 3-0 win away to Norwich that came from two goals from Joelinton and one from Bruno Guimaraes.

Brighton and Southampton shared four goals in an entertaining south coast derby, with J a m e s Wa r d - P r o w s e scoring in first-half injury time and in the 54th minute to cancel out Danny Welbeck’s early opener and Mohammed Salisu’s 44th minute goal for the home side.

Leicester City and Aston Villa drew a forgettable game 0-0, although the result at least ended a run of four consecutive defeats for the visitors.

Whyte says Fury push during knockout illegal LO N D O N, A p r 2 5 (AGENCIES): Dillian Whyte believes WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury got away with an illegal push during their title fight on Saturday and has demanded a rematch after suffering a sixthround technical knockout at Wembley Stadium.

Fur y appeared to push fellow Briton Whyte after landing a devastating uppercut with one second to go in the round, eventually forcing referee Mark Lyson to stop the fight. read more “I was buzzed but obviously I was trying to regather my senses and he proper pushed me and I fell over and hit my head on the canvas which is illegal,” Whyte told Sky Sports on Monday.

“This isn’t wrestling, this is boxing. I should have been allowed extra time to recover and then carried on fighting. I got caught, no doubt about it ... (but) terrible job from the referee there.”

The undefeated Fury (32-0-1) said after the fight that he was likely to retire, keeping a promise he made to his wife Paris, but Whyte said he was eager for a rematch.

“He (Fury) said he would retire. I hope he doesn’t retire, because I want another go,” added the 34-year-old.

“He said you’re a good fighter, a true warrior, you’re going to be a world champion. I’m not a sore loser. You win some, you lose some, this is life.”

KIUG: Nataraj wins gold in 50m freestyle, Jain University soar to top of medal table

BENGALURU, APR 25 (PTI): Tokyo Olympian swimmer Srihari Nataraj clinched a gold medal in the 50m freestyle, clocking 23.23 seconds, on day two of the Khelo India University Games here on Monday.

The 21-year-old Nataraj broke Mihir A m b r e ’s m e e t r e c o r d timing of 23.78 seconds from the previous edition as he produced his fastest time in an individual race in the event.

Nataraj’s win added gloss to a dominant performance from hosts Jain University, which soared to the top of the medal table with the help of four golds in swimming.

The swimming events also saw five new KIUG records.

At the end of second day, 17 universities had already won a gold and as many as 41 had marked their presence on the medal table.

With 10 medals up for grabs in swimming, the first went to Savitribai Phule Pune University’s Shubham Dhaygude in the men’s 400m freestyle.

Soon, it was time for Jain University to shine as Siva Sridhar not only won gold but also in the process set a new KIUG record time of 2:05.43 in the 200m Individual Medley.

Sridhar repeated winrecord double in the 100m backstroke later in the day.

In the day’s final event in the pool, Shivaji

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the TAN under its new leadership.

The TAN is affiliated w i t h t h e Ta e k wo n d o Association of India (ITF) and the new office bearers will be led by Simon Yepthomi as president, Yimkongniken Aonok (IV Dan) as general secretary along with other six members.

Maharshi Dayanand University logged another gold in women’s weightlifting — Sneha winning the 59kg class.

Ju t u r i Ko t e s wa r a Rao registered Krishna University’s first ever gold at the Games in the women’s 73kg class. Rao had won silver in the women’s 67kg at the last edition.

Earlier in the day, Bharathiar University scored a massive upset in the women’s volleyball semifinals, toppling SRM University 3-0.

Bharathiar will face state rivals SRM University in the final on Tuesday.

There will be 22 medals up for grabs on day 3 with swimming, weightlifting and volleyball events lined up.

Many plans are in a man’s mind, but it is the Lord’s purpose for him that will stand.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

(PROVERBS 19:21)

Late P. thangPong

05.05.1980 – 11.04.2022 The family members of Lt. P. thangpong wish to acknowledge the kindness and sympathy shown to us during the time of his illness till he was taken to his heavenly abode.

Words are not adequate to express our gratitude to every single person who had extended their love and support spiritually, physically and financially during our time of grief.

We would like to convey our special thanks to: 1. 164 INF Bn (TA) (H&H) Naga, Rangapahar.

2. 164 INF Bn (TA) (H&H) Naga, ‘A’ Coy Guard Party, Tuensang.

3. 164 INF Bn (TA) (H&H) Naga, Zakhama Military Station.

4. 164 INF Bn (TA) (H&H) Naga, ‘G’ Coy , Mokokchung.

5. Sanglao Baptist Church.

6. Khiamniungan Baptist Church, Kohima.

7. Sanglao Paopong, Dimapur, Tuensang, Noklak.

8. Khiamniungan Melee Dimapur, Tuensang, Noklak, Kohima.

9. Friends who cared for him during his illness till he breathed his last.

10. Relatives, friends and well wishers.

Loving, Family and relatives k-837/22

25/03/1953 – 20/04/2022 We, the bereaved family members of Late VIZHIeL SOtHU express our heartfelt gratitude to all the individuals, organizations, churches, families, friends, neighbors and well-wishers who stood by us physically, emotionally, materially and financially during the illness and demise of our beloved. Words are inadequate to thank everyone individually, but we hope and pray that Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Lt. TEMJENSANGLA 26.04.2021

A year ago, on this saddest day, you have gone to the place from where no one ever comes back.

You are missed every day and every moment.

You'll always be with us in our hearts. dp-1811/22

Family and Relatives

k-833/22

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

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University’s Rujuta Khade broke yet another KIUG record in the women’s 50m freestyle, with a time of 27.38.

She broke Sadhvi D h u r i ’s m a r k f r o m Bhubaneshwar by nearly six-tenths of a second as Shivaji University sat in second place on the medal table with three gold, one silver and one bronze.

Punjabi University, the overall winners at the 2020 edition, won their first gold at this edition, via Ishneet Aulakh in the women’s 25m individual pistol.

Aulakh and her team were beaten to silver in the team event by their state rivals Panjab University.

Fo l l ow i n g Ko m a l Kohar’s win on Sunday,

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Members of Taekwondo Association of Nagaland after the meeting and election of office bearers.

DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): The Taekwondo Association of Nagaland (TAN) has elected its new board members on April 23 in Dimapur.

Following the elections and with the new board members, the association resolved to commit to revival and c o n t i nu e d g r ow t h o f

Srihari Nataraj

Loving Children, In-laws & Grandchildren

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We, the family members of Lt. Tialemla Jamir would like to express our profound gratitude to all the individuals, organisations, churches, family friends, neighbours and wellwishers who stood by us through physical, emotional, financial support and prayers, who breathed her last on 16th April, 2022. Your love and kindness will be always treasured and remembered. dp-1836/22

Loving husband, children & family members K Y M C

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NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2022

DR. T. AO INTER DISTRICT FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

Tseminyu, Peren and Shamator enter quarterfinals

MOKOKCHUNG, 25 APR (NPN): Tseminyu, Pe r e n a n d S h a m a t o r h ave p r o g r e s s e d t o the quarterfinals of the ongoing Dr. T. Ao inter district football trophy on Monday played at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung.

Debutant Football Association Tseminyu District (FATD) came from behind to snatched a d r aw 3 - 3 a g a i n s t Kohima District Football Association (KDFA). The draw put Tseminyu team on top of the Group D table with seven points and better goal difference of +9, followed by Kohima team with seven points (+6 goal difference). With both teams already qualifying for the last-8, their contest was to top the group.

The six goals thriller match earned both teams a point each. With the start of the match, Vilhoubetuo Yhome opened the scoring for Kohima, while Letkhokai Kuki headed the ball for the equalizer 9 minutes later. The first half went in favour of Kohima as Kevisanyu Peseyie added the second goal for Kohima in the 15th minute and Kekhrieletuo Tsira doubled the lead in the 25th

Peren (blue) and Longleng (yellow) in action during the Action between Shamator (sky blue) and Noklak (neon third match on Monday in Mokokchung. vest) in the last match on Monday.

minute to make 3-1 in the first half.

The second half saw Tseminyu making a comeback with Calvin Kent and Akenye Kent adding a goal each in 42nd and 55th minute to equalize making the score line 3-3. With both team falling to make any major impact, the match ended in a draw.

Peren District Fo o t b a l l A s s o c i a t i o n (PDFA) registered an easy win over Longleng District Fo o t b a l l A s s o c i a t i o n (LDFA) 3-0 and topped the table of Group C. Peren with the win will face Kohima District Football Association in the third quarter finals match on Tuesday.

In a one-sided match, Peren got themselves in the score sheet as early as in the 2nd minute with Winamthiu Ringdi finding the back of the net, Zumzum Penyü added the second goal in 16th minute to make it 2-0 in the first half. Longleng team failed to make use of the game failing to register any shot on target. The second half saw substitute Ilungrai of Peren adding the third goal in the 58th minute to finish the game in their favour. Peren finished the league matches on top of the Group C table with seven points winning two and one draw.

In the lats match of the day, substitute Nika H Achumi scored in the dying

minutes of the game giving Shamator District Football Association (SDFA) the edge as they cruised to the quarter finals by a solitary goal. Shamator have drawn two matches and a win tallying 5 points to become the last team to qualify for the next round. In a must needed win situation for both teams, the game was equally poised as they failed to break the deadlock. The first half saw both teams failing to capitalized their chances.

In the second half, Shamator fought hard for the win and it was their substitute Achumi paid the faith of the coach in the dying minutes when they needed the most.

Achumi on his solo ran

slotted the winning goal edged passing the keeper in the injury time. The goal brought much relieve to the Shamator team and their supporting fans to celebrate about. However, a herculean task lies ahead of Shamator who will be playing against Tseminyu.

Shamator team will need to improvise their play and the strikers’ finishing the job for them to progress through to the semis.

H o s t t e a m Mokokchung District Fo o t b a l l A s s o c i a t i o n ( M D FA ) e n d e d t h e i r campaign with a thumping w i n ove r Z u n h e b o t o District Football Association (ZDFA) by 4-2. Playing the first match of the day, Mokokchung

finally got something to cheer about as they came from behind to beat Zunheboto. They were yet to win any matches and both teams needed the win to go back home with a victory. It was Inito from Zunheboto who scored the first goal in the 15th minute of the game with the host team fighting back for an equalizer which finally happened in the 32nd minute and ended the first half with the score 1-1.

After the first half, Osen scored for the host team in the 45th minute but Pitoho of Zunheboto equalized the score in the 59th minute for a 2-2 draw. However, it was Temjenmeren and Sentisang that helped seal the game in the 63rd and 66th minute to finished in favor of Mokokchung.

In-spite of the win, it was unfortunate as both teams Zunheboto and Mokokchung from Group D were eliminated.

Tuesday’s Matches 1st QF: Dimapur Vs Niuland @7 am 2nd QF: Phek Vs Mon @9:30 am 3rd QF: Peren Vs Kohima @12:30 pm 4rd QF: Shamator Vs Tseminyu @2:30 pm

Nagaland’s Lenien Jamir receives ALL-MAAC honours for 2nd term

Lenien Jamir

GUWAHATI, APR 25 (AGENCIES): Lenien Jamir of the Monmouth University women’s tennis team, New Jersey, have been named to Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) 2022 Women’s Te n n i s A l l - A c a d e m i c Team player for the second consecutive year.

Jamir who hails from Mokokchung district of Nagaland became the first ever tennis player from the State to earn an athletic scholarship at the Monmouth University in New Jersey in 2021.

She has put up some highly consistent performances and recently

ear ned the All-MAAC honours.

As per reports, a total of 38 student-athletes were named to the 2022 MAAC Women’s Tennis A l l - A c a d e m i c Te a m , announced by the MAAC on April 22, 2022.

T h e 2 0 2 2 M A AC Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championships was held on April 23-24 at Mercer C o u n t y P a r k Te n n i s Center in West Windsor, NJ. This was the 10th consecutive championship held at Mercer County Park Tennis Center dating back to the 2012 MAAC Men’s & Women’s Tennis Championships.

Brazil Para Badminton Intl: Tarun, Kadam Punjab Kings overcome Chennai Super Kings by 11 runs win gold and silver, Bhagat bags 2 bronze NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): Tarun Dhillon and Sukant Kadam clinched a gold and silver respectively in SL4 class, while Tokyo Pa r a ly m p i c c h a m p i o n Pramod Bhagat bagged two bronze in SL3 as the Indian team secured 28 medals at the Brazil Para Badminton International in Sao Paulo.

In total, the Indian para badminton squad clinched 8 gold, 7 silver and 13 bronze to sign off a creditable campaign on Sunday.

In SL4 category, world No. 3 Kadam defeated Germany’s Marcel Adam 21-19 21-13 but he went down to fellow Indian Tarun in the final. Both Tarun and Kadam fought till the end but it was the former who emerged victories in the end, claiming a 21-17 20-22 21-18 win to capture the yellow metal. Kadam said: “I am disappointed by the result a little as I had given my everything in the game. I think Tarun played really well and held nerves at crucial points. Every tournament I am playing, my game is improving and I am happy with the progress.”

World No. 1 Bhagat also went down to compatriot Kumar Nitesh 7-21 21-19 19-21 in a closely

Team India at the Brazil Para Badminton International.

fought 50-minute match.

Nitesh went on to win the gold, defeating Japan’s Daisuke Fujihara with a score line of 21-15 18-21 21-18. In the mixed doubles, Pramod and Palak Kohli went down fighting to Japan’s Daisuke Fujihara and Akiko Sugino in three sets.

Apart from Nitesh and Tarun, Parul Parmar (SL3), Jyoti Verma (SL4), Manisha Ramdas (SU5), Hardik Makkar-Ruthik Raghupathi (SU5), Arwaz Ansari-Deep Ranjan Bisoyee (SL3-SL4) and Manisha RamdasMandeep Kaur (SL3-SU5) also won gold medals at the tournament.

P r e m Ku m a r A l e (WH1), Mandeep Kaur (SL3), Nithya Sre (SH6),

Palak Kohli-Parul Parmar (SL3-SU5), Chirag BarethaMandeep Kaur (SL3-SU5) and Tarun Dhillon-Nitesh Kumar (SL3-SL4) also returned with silver medals.

Among bronze winners, Manoj Sarkar (SL3), Nilesh Gaikwad (SL4), Dhingaram (SH6), Ammu Mohan (WH2), M a n o j S a r k a r - Vi k r a m Kumar (SL3-SL4), Chirag Baretha-Nilesh Gaikwad (SU5), Prem Kumar AleAbu Hubaida (WH1-WH2), Shashank Kumar-Ammu Mohan (WH1-WH2), A m mu M o h a n ( W H 1 WH2), Arati Patil (SL3SU5) and Nithya Sre-Latatai Umrekar (SH6) and Pramod Bhagat-Palak Kohli (SL3SU5) were the prominent names.

MUMBAI, APR 25 (IANS): A superb, fighting half-century by seasoned Ambati Rayudu went in vain as a clinical bowling performance saw Punjab Kings beat Chennai Super Kings by 11 runs in Match 38 of IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium here on Monday.

Chasing a target of 188 set by Punjab Kings largely boosted by a brilliant 88 not out by Shikhar Dhawan, Chennai were in trouble soon.

Rayudu came in to bat with Chennai struggling at 40/3 and took them to safety with a blazing 78 off 39 balls, hitting seven fours and 6 sixes to raise hopes for a CSK victory. He raised 64 runs off 32 deliveries for the fifth wicket partnership.

But in the end, Jadeja (21 off 16 balls) could not guide his team to victory as from needing 47 off 24 balls, they reached a stage where they needed 27 off the last six deliveries with Jadeja and M.S Dhoni at the crease.

Dhoni struck Rishi Dhawan for a six off the first ball but was out off the third legal delivery and Jadeja could manage only a six and a single off the final two deliveries as CSK slumped to their sixth defeat in eight matches -- ending with 176/6 in 20 overs.

Sandeep Sharma of Punjab Kings celebrates the wicket of Robin Uthappa of the Chennai Superkings during the IPL match at the Wankhede stadium, in Mumbai. (PTI)

Chennai got off to a poor start and lost opener Robin Uthappa with 10 runs on the board, topedging a length ball by Sandeep Sharma to Shikhar Dhawan. It soon became 40/3 as Mitchell Santner (9) and Shivam Dube (8) got out cheaply.

But just when it looked like they will suffer a collapse, Rayudu got together with the other opener, Ruturaj Gaikwad to pull them out of the woods.

Both Rayudu and Gaikwad

started cautiously but struck some fine boundaries on the right occasions to keep Chennai’s hope alive.

They added 49 runs for the fourth wicket and just when it was looking like they will raise the tempo, Gaikwad, who despatched Rabada to the boundaries off successive deliveries in the first over, was out, caught by Mayank Agarwal while trying to hit Rabada for a second successive four in the 13th over.

Rayudu however, kept

up the good work. He struck Sandeep Sharma for fours off successive deliveries as the bowler strayed on legs and blasted Rahul Charar for a four and a six in the 15th over before hammering Sandeep Sharma for 23 runs in the 16th over, blasting three sixes and a four.

He and skipper Ravindra Jadeja raised 64 runs for the fifth wicket in 32 balls, Rayudu doing the bulk of the scoring. He got out just when it looked he was good for a century,

cleaned up by Rabada with a superb yorker backing away from the leg side but missing the ball completely to see his leg stump rearranged. Rayudu’s brilliant 78 off 39 balls left CSK needing 47 off 24 balls.

With Arshdeep Singh and Rabada bowling two good overs, the equation came down to 27 off the last 6 deliveries and eventually to 19 off two balls and though Jadeja struck Rishi Dhawan for a six, CSK eventually fell short by 11 runs.

S h i k h a r D h awa n carried his bat through as he scored an unbeaten 88 off 59 deliveries, hitting 9 fours and 2 sixes as he helped Punjab Kings to 187/4 after they were asked to bat first

by Chennai Super Kings skipper Ravindra Jadeja.

Brief scores: Punjab Kings 187/4 in 20 overs (Shikhar Dhawan 88 not out, Bhanuka Rajapaksa 42, Liam Livingstone 19; Dwayne Bravo 2/42) beat Chennai Super Kings 176/6 in 20 overs (Ruturaj G a i k wa d 3 0 , A m b a t i Rayudu 78, Ravindra Jadeja 21 not out; Kagiso Rabada 2/23, Rishi Dhawan 2/39) by 11 runs.

Tuesday’s Match Gujarat Titans Vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Time: 7:30 pm

Oslo Cup chess: Praggnanandhaa beats Liem in third round Santosh Trophy: Services beat Odisha 2-0 OSLO, APR 25 (IANS): It was two months back that India’s young Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa caused a sensation in the chess world by beating world champion Magnus Carlsen in the Airthings Masters elite online chess tournament.

Pragg, as he is fondly called, gets another chance of doing it again, beating Magnus Carlsen in the four th round of Oslo Esports Cup, the first offline event that is part of the 2022 Meltwater Champions Chess Tour season.

He had defeated Jorden van Foreest and Shakryar Mamedairov in the earlier rounds.

And what gives Praggnanandhaa hopes of repeating his performance against Carlsen is his brilliant form in this event in which he leads the field by winning the third straight

Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa

match.

India’s 16-year-old superstar-in-the-making is the only player with 9/9 points and has won the maximum USD 22,500 prize so far after crushing

Liem Quang Le of Vietnam with a game to spare.

Pragg now faces world champion Carlsen in Round 4. Beat Carlsen, as he did two months ago, and the youngster will be

the hot favourite to win the first Major of the 2022 Meltwater Champions Chess Tour, conducted by the Play Magnus Group and has a prize fund of USD1.6 million over nine events with more than 40 world-renowned players taking part.

T h e t e e n a ge r wa s overjoyed with his win against the speed chess specialist Liem, who beat Carlsen on Friday.

Pragg has now played only 9 games to win three matches and has a 3-point cushion over Carlsen on the tournament leaderboard.

The boy from Chennai had earlier started with a win over Jorden van Foreest.

Pragg said, “Today it was difficult. In the first game, I was winning and then I played b3 quite quickly and he (Liem) got counter-play. In the second game it was very

complicated and in timetrouble I didn’t know what was happening.”

He added, “In the last game, definitely I didn’t play so well but in time trouble he definitely made some mistakes.

“When you win, of course you have a lot of fun! In general, I’m having a lot of fun playing these players... It’s always a very good experience.”

Carlsen, meanwhile, has complained of feeling under the weather during this event. He looked ill again going into his Round 3 match against his old rival Anish Giri.

But on the board, the world No.1 was in fine fettle as he got back in the groove after his loss to Liem with a smooth 2.5-0.5 win over Giri. There were no moments of concern for the champ who needs to beat Pragg on Tuesday.

MALAPPURAM (KERALA), APR 25 (IANS): Defending champions Services got the better of Odisha 2-0, thanks to two second half goals in a Group B game of the Hero 75th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy at the Kottappadi Football Stadium here on Monday.

The result means Odisha will have to wait for the outcome of the Karnataka-Gujarat game to find out who makes it through to the semifinals of the tournament.

Odisha, needing a point to secure qualification, started the brighter and dominated proceedings in the first half. The first chance of the game fell to left winger Chandra Muduli. After some fine build-up play

by Odisha, who kept the ball on the ground for the

Services player celebrates after scoring against Odisha.

most part of the game, Chandra Muduli got the ball with space to run into.

He whipped in a dangerous ball inside the box but Kartik Hantal could not get any sort of contact to divert the ball goalwards.

Another presentable chance fell to the young winger Chandra this time in the 40th minute.

A through ball from the O d i s h a m i d f i e l d wa s chased down by the pacey winger, who managed to outrun two defenders but his final touch let him

down and allowed Services goalkeeper Subhajit Basu to close him down in the nick of time.

The rebound fell to Kartik Hantal but he failed to hit the rebound on target as the ball trickled wide.

Kartik Hantal was put clear through on goal but the young forward took too much time to settle which allowed Services defender Zothanpuia to put in a brilliant last ditch tackle to take the ball off the attacker’s feet at the last moment.

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