8 May 2023

Nagaland Post

SRH beat RR by 4 wickets in last-ball thriller

676 stranded Nagas arrive from Manipur

Over600moreto bebroughtbackby Monday:Patton

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 7 (NPN):

A total of 676 civilians including women and children were safely evacuated from violence-hit Manipur after 22 buses ferrying them reached the State capital, Kohima on Sunday afternoon at around 1 p.m.

The joint evacuation exercise named-- “Operation Kohima Calling” was spearheaded by Assam Rifles in close coordination with Nagaland Police, NST, district administration and assisted by Angami Public Organisation, youth and student bodies.

The evacuees were accorded a warm welcome at a reception organized at the

MANIPUR VIOLENCE: Centre ready for discussions: Reddy

HYDERABAD, MAY 7

(PTI): Requesting warring groups in Manipur to maintain peace, Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region G Kishan Reddy Sunday said the Central government was ready for talks and settle the issue.

“Please come forward to solve the issues in a peaceful manner. The Indian Government is ready. You have seen the farmers’ issue. When it was peaceful, we tried to convince them. As the issue was not resolved, we agreed to their demand, and those Bills (three farm laws) were withdrawn. So the Indian Government is not adamant,” Reddy told PTI.

He stressed that people’s welfare was the government’s main agenda and requested Manipur residents to understand this and come forward for talks. He assured them that the government (state or centre) will take care of those who suffered losses due to violence and lost lives in the clashes.

Reddy said after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, during the last eight years discussions were held with several insurgent groups (in the Northeast), and peace prevailed in the region.

He said Modi would order a comprehensive inquiry into the issue.

Asserting that the people of Manipur were also Indians, he said it was the responsibility of the state and centre to solve it if there was a problem.

This is it!

“If fish and chicken are banned for whatever reasons, we’ll end up eating rice and salt.”

Evacuees recall harrowing experiences

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAY 7

Manipur violence: Death toll rise to 59; curfew relaxed in several districts

Inspector General of Police, (North), headquarters. State deputy chief minister Y. Patton along with host of senior officials and others were present to receive the Addressing the gathering, Patton thanked God for the safe passage of the people, the Assam Rifles under the command of Brigadier, Ved Beniwal, who led the rescue team, Nagaland Police, state government, Angami Public Organization, Southern Angami Public Organization and other organizations involved in the

exercise. He also informed that another batch of 650 people will be evacuated by Monday as 14 more buses have been despatched to Imphal. Expressing regret for the delay, Patton said that due to logistic issues, as unlike other states, the state government could not arrange chartered flights since there were huge number of Nagas stranded in Manipur. Patton, however, assured that the process to bring back the rest of the people would begin by Monday.

He said the whole incident was “surreal” as the police helpline received more than 800 calls from students and other citizens.

The deputy CM also announced Rs. 5000 per household as financial aid to the evacuees.

In his brief speech, DGP Nagaland Rupin Sharma said the emphasis was on the safety of Nagas, as necessary arrangements were made to ensure maximum protection with the help of the Assam Rifles in Manipur.

(Cont’d

(NPN): S everal evacuees from Manipur’s Churachandpur district, who had arrived Dimapur Saturday from Tinsukia by train, recalled their harrowing experiences while being stranded in hostels in Manipur before being rescued and taken to shelter camps.

When Nagaland Post spoke to some of them, the evacuees recalled that they were caught right in between the mobs and narrowly escaped with their lives till they were rescued and sheltered by security forces.

One of the evacuees, a student pursuing electrical engineering from NIT, told Nagaland Post that, when mob violence broke out on May 3, the students attempted to flee from the university fearing the worst but were

unable to do so on that day.

While being stranded in the hostel, Manipur Rifles (MR) arrived and took them a shelter camp which already housed more than 5000 other people. He said the area around the campus was supposed to have been sanitised as assured by the Manipur Rifles but it was not evident when mob violence continued. He expressed resentment that the MR force appeared more concerned with providing security to VIPs and protection to the locals. He said mob surrounded the camp, burnt tyres and chanted slurs directed at tribals sheltered inside. The camp lacked water and hygiene was very poor and food also was scarce. The student expressed deep anguish at the fate of those still remaining in such camps in Manipur.

Manipur: BJP MLA moves SC against HC order; MTF demands SIT probe

Correspondent/Agencies

IMPHAL, MAY 7: The death toll after ethnic clashes in Manipur rose to at least 59, with five more dead bodies retrieved in the last 24 hours, official sources said on Sunday. Source said that the police recovered five more dead bodies from different parts of the state and transferred them to Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal morgue, where now a total of 28 dead bodies are at the morgue.

According to reports, there were 15 dead bodies kept at JNIMS morgue, Imphal and 16 Churachandpur district hospital morgue. The deaths included six women, sources said. Unofficially, sources said that the death toll could be more.

recovered so far from the looted arms. “...Till now, 134 arms have been recovered from the looted arms,” he told ANI. Curfew was relaxed in several parts of the state including Churachandpur with specific timings.

The Army in a statement said that the last 24 hours saw the army significantly enhancing surveillance efforts through aerial surveillance, movement of UAVs, and redeployment of army helicopters within Imphal Valley. The statement further said that 23,000 civilians had been rescued so far.

Meanwhile, Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey chaired a meeting with the newly appointed security advisor to Manipur government Kuldiep Singh and additional DGP Ashutosh Sinha, the overall operational commander of the present turmoil arising in the state.

NEW

DELHI,

MAY 7 (PTI/AGENCIES): A batch of pleas has been filed in the Supreme Court on the Manipur situation including one by a ruling BJP MLA challenging the High Court order on the issue of Scheduled Tribe status to the Meitei community and a PIL by Manipur Tribal Forum for a probe by an SIT into the violence that rocked the State.

The forum alleged that the attacks on tribal communities in Manipur has the full support of BJP which is in power in the State as well as at the Centre. Appeals have also been filed by Dinganglung Gangmei, BJP MLA

and chairman of the Hills Area Committee (HAC) of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, challenging various orders passed by the Manipur High Court on the ST status to Meiteis, including the contempt notices on the criticism of the HC order.

Gangmei in his appeal said the HAC “was a necessary and proper party and the proceedings before the High Court were vitiated on account of not making the HAC a party”.

He said, “Even if directions were to be given they could not have been given without notice to the HAC (Hills Area Committee) and hearing the HAC.”

He said that due to the impugned order tension between both the community have taken place and violent clashes have erupted across the state. The appeal filed by Gangmei against the March 27 order of the Manipur High Court said that three basic errors were made in the judgement which includes directing the State to make a recommendation to the Central government to include the Meitei community as a scheduled tribe in the Presidential list.

“The second mistake is the conclusion that the issue of inclusion of the Meiteis was pending for nearly 10 years and the third mistake

PR only choice to bring normalcy in Manipur: Therie

DIMAPUR, MAY 7

(NPN): Former NPCC pres-

ident K. Therie has said that imposition of President’s Rule was the only choice to bring back normalcy in Manipur. In a statement, Therie said that there was nothing more serious than losing 54 precious lives, injuring over 150 with many missing and property worth thousands of crores destroyed.

He also said that 26 villages were burnt down, shops and properties destroyed and looted, people displaced etc. The centuries old relation of living as one loving family has been destroyed, he stated. Therie further pointed out that destroying Churches

was most unbecoming, particularly in the context of the North East. “We have lived happily for centuries by appreciating each other’s religions, cultures and customs. The wound is too deep and healing will take decades if not a century,” he said. While appreciating Centre’s intervention, Therie said the return to normalcy cannot be expected with the culprit remaining at the helm of affairs.

He, therefore, said that Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh, as leader of the House, has to own moral responsibility for the breakdown. “He is answerable. He cannot blame expar -

te-judgement for it cannot be without his consent or knowledge. The people have lost confidence that they are safe under his leadership,” Therie asserted.

He reiterated that the only option of the Central government was to urgently arrest the unrest and restore normalcy with President’s Rule and win back the confidence of the people.

“We are small communities living in the Northeast with a common truth that we cannot separate. We are no longer individual communities in isolation because of intermarriage. We are neighbours and will be neighbours forever more,” Therie said.

is in concluding that the Meiteis are tribes’ ‘, the appeal said. The appeal said that the Meitei community is not a tribe and has never been recognised as a tribe and in fact they’re very much an advanced community though some of them may come within SC/OBC.

The appeal said that the high court passed the order on a writ petition filed by some members of Meitei communities seeking a direction to the state government to recommend to the Centre to include their community of Manipur in the scheduled tribe list of the Indian constitution as a tribe of Manipur.

The plea by the BJP MLA said there is no recommendation of the state government for inclusion of the Meetei/Meitei community in the scheduled tribe list and there is no recommendation for such inclusion pending before the central government.

“Merely because the state of Manipur may have received some representation by the Meeteis/Meiteis does not oblige the state to do anything unless the state is convinced first, that the Meeteis/Meiteis are tribes and second, that they deserve to be in scheduled tribes list.

Though there has been an uneasy calm in Manipur with thousands either taking refuge in neighbouring States or being evacuated from conflict zones by their respective governments, life started limping back to normalcy on Sunday with people seen coming out in large numbers to buy food, medicines and other essential commodities.

Security advisor on Manipur violence Kuldiep Singh said on Sunday that the situation in the state was under control. He further said that some areas of Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Moreh are still tenseand peace meetings were held in these areas.

According to ANI report, Kuldiep also informed that 134 arms have been

Uikey also said she had already made fervent appeal to all the sections of the society to amicably solve the problem through peaceful dialogue. The governor was confident that through the efforts of all stakeholders, the issue would be resolved and peace and tranquillity restored in the state.

CS appointed: Manipur government on Sunday appointed Vineet Joshi, a 1992 Manipur cadre IAS officer, as the new chief secretary of the State. Joshi, who recently returned from Central deputation, will replace Dr Rajesh Kumar, whose was given a six-month extension in December 2022.

NJCF, LBCA, FNR & RNPO appeal for peace in Manipur

DIMAPUR, MAY 7 (NPN): More organisations have expressed concern over the violence in Manipur and have appealed for peace and calm.

NJCF: Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) comprising of all denominations in Nagaland and Christian community expressed deep concern about the ongoing unrest and recent escalation of violence in Manipur. The forum said that reports of attacks and visual images of burning of churches, destroying properties, and taking of lives were deeply troubling.

The forum, therefore, condemned all forms of violence and appealed to

DUCCF lauds removal of street food vendors

DIMAPUR, MAY 7 (NPN): Dimapur Urban Council Chairman’s Forum (DUCCF) has lauded the Dimapur district authorities for removing the food cart vendors around the Clock Tower and nearby areas in Dimapur town besides making an appeal for streamlining entry of heavy vehicles and repair road from Dillai gate to Old flyover near hotel Tragopan.

In a statement, DUCCF noted that the vendors who had earlier set up food stalls in and around Clock Tower to Popular Bakery area, had caused inconveniences by blocking vehicle parking area, set up dining

chairs and table on footpaths and affected nearby shops. DUCC lso pointed out that the pavements and edifice of the buildings were defaced by smoke and littering by food stall vendors.

While supporting businesses carried out by local entrepreneurs, DUCCF, however, said that rules laid down by colony council were flouted such as-- timing, serving of alcohol, creating noise pollution, littering, obstruction of public passage, causing more traffic congestion and parking problems etc.

In this regard, DUCCF requested the district authorities to relocate the

food cart vendors to Super Market area. DUCCF also welcomed concerns raised by some organizations who demanded reopening of the food stalls but urged upon these organisations, to hold prior consultations with colony councils and not to rush to the media after hearing only one side of the story.

It appealed to the organizations, with genuine concern, to point out to the forum if any kind of harassment at nearby colony residents are being caused by food vendors.

DUCCF also urged the district authorities to allow entry of heavy vehicles-goods trucks and dumpers in

town area, only after 9 p.m. and before 5 a.m. in order to avoid traffic congestion and allow students to reach their schools and colleges on time.

It pointed out that such an order had already been issued barring entry of heavy vehicles, but has not been followed.

Meanwhile, the forum also urged upon the concerned department to take up the road repair work from Dillai gate to Old flyover, near hotel Tragopan junction at the earliest.

The forum said that the road condition has deteriorated and commuters were facing a lot of hardship both during wet and dry season.

the communities to remain calm and create a sense of confidence among the people who have suffered destruction of property and loss of lives and living in fear and in insecurity.

In a press note, NJCF president Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho said that violence in any form was never a solution, but would only distance one group from the other. Manipur is a developing state in the region and such an unfortunate turn of event should not smear the outlook, Keyho stated.

The forum urged upon all parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue and find a non-violent resolution

to their differences. It also called upon all parties to respect the sanctity of sacred places and properties.

NJCF said it believes in the system and people in authority to take stalk of the situation and diffuse the tension among different communities and give hope to those who are suffering and are bearing the brunt of violence. Therefore, the forum appealed to the authorities to take swift action to ensure the safety and security of all individuals and all communities affected by this violence.

While acknowledging the long-standing co-existence of different communi-

ties in Manipur, the forum prayed that the long-term grievances were suitably addressed in consultation with the people rationally.

NJCF further called upon all citizens and groups of the society to engage in a reflective, constructive dialogue to find a peaceful resolution. “Let us work together towards reconciliation and peace building,” NJCF appealed.

LBCA: Lotha Baptist Churches Association, Vankhosüng expressed pain and concern to learn about the recent events of arson, violence and loss of innocent lives in Manipur.

Patton, senior government and Assam Rifles officials with 676 people evacuated from Manipur. (NP)

Mega medical camp at Old Tesen village

A patient examined at the media camp at Old Tesen

DIMAPUR: A mega medical camp was organised by Assam Rifles and District Hospital Peren on May 5 at the Christian School, Old Tesen, Peren, with an aim to provide medical aid and consultation to the villagers who have limited access to healthcare facilities.

A press release by Chief Medical Officer

(CMO) Peren office informed that a team of doctors from District Hospital, Peren along with doctors, nurses and paramedical staff from Assam Rifles provided consultation and treatment for various ailments and health problems.

The release informed that approximately 482

NEWS IN BRIEF

Wokha DPDB meeting: Deputy commissioner and vice chairman of District Planning and Development Board (DPDB), Wokha has informed that the DPDB meeting for the month of May will be held on May 9 at 11 am at DC conference hall, Wokha. In this connection, all members have been asked to attend the meeting positively.

Nuiland DPDB meeting: Deputy Commissioner and vice chairman, District Planning Development Board (DPDB), Niuland, Sara S Jamir, has informed that the DPDB meeting of Niuland district for the month of May 2023 is scheduled to be held on May 11 at 11 am, at DC Conference Hall, Niuland. All members have been requested to attend the meeting positively.

NASU to conduct tour: Niuland Area Students’ Union (NASU) has informed that it would be conducting educational tour within its jurisdiction from May 22 onwards. NASU has sought cooperation from the concerned department, GBs, NASU federating units, SMC, church leaders and citizens of the respective village.

‘1st inter-school art competition’

villagers and 105 children were benefited by the medical camp. In addition to medical consultations and treatments, the camp also had a team of healthcare professionals who educated the people about various health issues and provided them with tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

DIMAPUR: Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan, Dimapur unit organized the “1st Inter-School Art Competition” at Pranab Vidyapith Higher Secondary School, Dimapur on May 7.

A press release by president of Nikhil Bharat Banga Sahitya Sammelan, Monoj Bhattacharjee informed that 326 students from various schools of Dimapur took part in the competition held in different group category. Meanwhile, Bhattacharjee and all the members and well-wishers of the Sammelan, Dimapur extended gratitude to all the parents and guardians for sending their wards in making the competition a success.

ATMA Peren organises activities for farmers

It

DIMAPUR: Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Peren conducted various activities for the farmers within the district.

Ahthibung: With an objective to bridge the gap between technical experts and farmers and to imbibe the latter with appropriate relevant information, a “farmer-Scientist interaction” was conducted by ATMA Peren, Ahthibung block on April 28 at Ahthibung Town Hall, Ahthibung, Peren.

During the first technical session, a discussion

DCPU organises awareness on ‘child marriage act’

DIMAPUR: District Child Protection Unit (DCPU)

Dimapur organised a twoday awareness programme at Chungaizeang Council Hall and Nagagaon Council Hall Dimapur on May 5 and 6. The resource person of the programme, was legal-cum-probation officer DCPU Dimapur, Moajungla.

She spoke on “The prohibition of Child marriage Act 2006”. A poster campaign on “Prevention of child marriage” was also carried out. The programme was chaired by PO(IC), Esther Sumi and vote of thanks by DCPO, Avika Zhimomi and PO (NIC) DCPU Dimapur, Arenla Phom. A poster campaign was also carried out.

UCTE field trip to Khonoma

DIMAPUR: Unity College of Teacher Education, Dimapur, 4th semester B.Ed students on May 3 undertook a field Trip to Khonoma village under Kohima district. The college informed that the trip was organised with the purpose of giving the students the experience of learning outside the classroom.

on the topic, “important diseases of livestock management” was delivered by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Peren CTO (Animal Science), Dr. L Babita Devi while ACTO (PBG) KVK Peren, ICAR Nagaland Centre, Dr. Patu K Zeliang spoke on “seasonal vegetable cultivation for income generation”. At the second session, participating farmers and the resource persons interacted on various topics, and the resource persons also sensitised the farmers on Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and

its importance in solving marketing related issue.

Altogether, 40 farmers attended the programme and participated in the interaction session.

Songlhuh: A team of ATMA Peren, Ahthibung block along with farmers visited jhum field at Songlhuh Village, Ahthibung on April 29 as part of the “field day on summer crops”.

The team led by Block Technology Manager (BTM), Lhaihoichong Singson discussed various crops commonly grown in jhum fields, while topics

such as pest and disease management, nutrient requirements, plant water relations etc. of summer crops were discussed by Assistant Technology Manager (ATM), Lireni Lotha. Farmer were also advised on impact of jhum practices and remedy suggestions made on the negative impacts of jhum farming Based on interest of farmers present, ATM, Keneingunuo, taught farmers on scientific method, packages and practices of banana cultivation. Altogether 15 farmers attended the field day.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

K-982/23

August 1935 – 3rd May 2023

"Faith, Hope and love, the greatest is love.

1 Corinthians 13: 13

We, the bereaved family members of Lt. Shilukokla Imchen (Nokpu) would like to sincerely express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to each and every individual and groups who stood by us spiritually, physically and financially throughout the time of her illness till her last breath on 3rd May 2023.

It is our sincere prayer that Lord Almighty bless you all abundantly for your kind gestures.

DP-1971/23

Loving Children, In-Laws and Grandchildren.

AR personnel and others at the security meeting at Wangti village, Mon. DIMAPUR: Assam Rifles under the aegis of Headquarters Inspector General of Assam Rifles (IGARNorth) conducted various activities across Nagaland.

The battalion organised an awareness lectures on drugs at Baptist Higher Secondary School, Peren & Tening town, Peren district on May 6.

At the programme, the students and villagers were educated about the ill effects of drugs followed by an interactive session with the attendees. Around 320 students of Baptist Higher

Secondary School, Peren & 29 villagers of Tening attended the event.

The battalion also organised a security meeting at Wangti village, Mon district, on May 6. The meeting was attended by GBs, Village Council and Nagaland Village Guard. At the meeting, the locals assured their full support and cooperation in maintaining peace in the region.

Meanwhile, under Azadi ka Amrit MahotsavUnity campaign, Assam Rifles organised a visit to Company Operating Base

at Indo Myanmar Border for school students at Akhen, Phek, on May 4. A total of 30 students and two teachers from Phek spent their day at the Company Operating Base near India - Myanmar Border and engaged in various creative activities which were designed to elicit their talents.

A Company tour was organised for students followed by various fun games where all students participated. A movie on “Assam Rifles-Through the ages” was screened for the students and teachers.

11th DeAtH ANNIverSAry

rAtNA eZoNg

13.11.1946 to 08.05.2012

Those we love don't go away, they walk besides us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear. Loving Husband, Sons Daughters-in-Law & grandchildren

DP-1955/23

Died on 24th April, 2023

We the family members of Lt. Neilezoü Kire express our profound and heartfelt gratitude to all our relatives, neighbours, church members, health services, organisations and love ones, who stood by us and shared our grief spiritually, physically, financially and prayers during the time of her sickness and our bereavement. Words are inadequate to express our gratitude to each and every individual, but it is our humble prayer that Almighty God bless upon you all abundantly.

AcKNowLeDgemeNt

IN eterNAL PeAce

Through this column, we would like to extend our profound gratitude to all those individuals, organizations and churches who stood by us and supported us physically, financially and materially during the brief illness and at the sad demise of our beloved Dad Lt. K.I thsüpenthe Hd/GB Sanphure on 28th April 2023.

We convey our special thanks to:-

1. Sanphure VILLAGE COUNCIL

2. SANPHURE BAPTIST LITHRO

3. SANPHURE SUROKHÜM

4. SANPHURE VILLAGE GUARDS

06.04.1978 – 04.05.2023

As we grieve the sad demise of our beloved Late Heidi Zeliang, Hd. DB ADC Office Peren Town, the bereaved family would like to express our profound gratitude to all who stood by us at his sudden demise. We are deeply touched by all who rendered their help with their presence, material, financial, emotional support and prayers during the difficult times. We deeply regret our inability to thank every individual personally. No words will suffice enough to thank you. We pray that our Almighty God bless you abundantly.

We would like to express our special thanks and gratitude to:-

Neiba Ndang, Former Minister

4. ADC Peren & Staff

5. Peren Town Baptist Church

6. Peren District Football Referee Association

7. Mbaupunggwa Lui Sporting Association

8. Peren District Dobashi’s Association

9. Mbaupunggwa Baptist Fellowship Peren Town

5. SANPHURE VILLAGE S.H.G UNITY GROUP

6. SANPHURE VILLAGE UNION KIPHIRE TOWN

7. KIPHIRE DISTRICT GB's ASSOCIATION

8. SANGTSOZE VILLAGE COUNCIL

9. TSOMULONG VILLAGE COUNCIL

10. TETHUYO VILLAGE COUNCIL

11. TSONGPHONG VILLAGE COUNCIL

12. LONGMUTRA VILLAGE COUNCIL

13. ASOZE VILLAGE

BAPTIST YOUTH ENDEAVOUR DIMAPUR 23. DESIGNATED CAMP PUNZE SANPHURE

Loving Husband Visakholie Kire, Children & Grand Children.

AcKNowLeDgemeNt

1. Shri. T.R. Zeliang, Dy. CM Nagaland

2. D.C. Peren

3. Mrs. & Mr.

village.

ATMA Ahthibung

ATMA Songlhuh

Q.: Are NE states having alliances with BJP unwilling to denounce violence against tribal Christians ?

Revive traditional weaving for large scale production: Kruse

KBBB organises ‘Father School’ for inmates

DIMAPUR: A three-day “Father School” was organised for the inmates of Mon District Jail by Konyak Baptist Bumeinok Bangjüm (KBBB) Ministry of Father School and sponsored by KBBB women department on May 2-4.

NEXT POLL

Q: Should there be Supreme Court monitored inquiry on recent violence in Manipur?

KOHIMA, MAY 7(NPN):

Minister of Women Resource Development and Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo

Kruse emphasised on the importance of reviving traditional weaving for large scale production through adoption of modern machineries.

She said this at the thanksgiving programme held on May 6 at Peducha village council hall.

Highlighting the scope of floriculture in the state, Kruse informed that several plans were on the pipeline to construct marketing sheds along the highway of Zubza to enable women farmers and flower growers of the Western Angami areas to do

business. She also informed that flower seeds and vegetables were available for those interested. She also highlighted the goals of Women Resource Development and Horticulture and said that the purpose of the department was mainly to help women towards selfsustenance by improving the source of livelihood.

On the occasion, Kruse thanked the people of Kiruphema for their support help and support extended towards her victory.

Maintaining that her victory was the initial step of the journey ahead of them, Kruse assured that she would do whatever was possible from her end to uplift the people which could be done only through unity.

MBC prays for peace in Manipur

Chairperson, Kiruphema Women Organisation, Pfülhouzhüno Visienyü, congratulated Kruse for creating history by being the first woman cabinet minister in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly. Congratulating Kruse, chairman of the three villages, Kiruphema Bawe Council, Kiruphema Basa Council and Peducha Village Council expressed confidence that she will fulfil the much needed change not only in Western Angami but the Nagas as a whole. They also highlighted some urgent basic requirements in the area like good roads, health centres, farmers’ educational tour, etc and hoped that in due course of time these would be fulfilled.

A press release by KBBB stated that main resource persons, church and evangelism secretary, Rev. L. Metjen and the education and literature secretary, Rev. A. Peihwang Wangsa facilitated the course of the “Father School” for 26 fathers under the theme, “A loving father makes a loving family”. The threeday programme concluded with “touch of feet-washing ceremony” by the resource persons with the help of volunteers namely vice principal of Mon Theological College, Bangwang Wangsa, KBBB evangelist, Thaochi, KBBB computer assistant, Tonnei and the District Jail Chaplain, Yeangvei.

KBBB said the programme was first of its kind held in Mon District Jail, and that the inmates expressed gratitude for the service. KBBB said it realised the essential need of jail ministry where the church needed to extend its “Caring ministry” in the days to come.

DIMAPUR: Meitei Bap-

tist Church (MBC) Chumoukedima organised a special prayer programme on Sunday for peace and harmony in Manipur.

In a press release, MBC said the church was deeply pained to see the loss of innocent life and homeless people.

It has appealed all the communities and churches in the region to extend co-operation in prayer to bring back to normalcy in Manipur.

Further, MBC has appeal people not to spread any news, fake news or any information or comments through social media that

could create hatred out of emotion.

Dr. Sukhato appeals:

MLA of 13 Pughoboto A/C, Dr. Sukhato A. Sema has appreciated state chief minister and deputy chief minister for arranging transportation and security to the students from Nagaland stranded in violence hit Manipur.

However, Dr. Sukhato appealed to the concerned authority to ensure that not a single citizen of Nagaland was left behind. Maintaining that many of the Naga people were engaged in business activities, teaching and missionary works even

in the remotest and farthest part of Manipur, Dr. Sukhato suggested that the evacuation process should not be limited to Imphal alone but should be carried out in other parts of Manipur state.

Further, the MLA appealed to the warring parties to maintain maximum restraint.

Meanwhile, any person from 13 Pughoboto A/C stranded in Manipur and in need of assistance have been informed to contact the following persons- Ngukato K Tsuipu (7005444691), Kuhoji Kiba (9436005254) and Hotoka Swu (9598806240).

Various programmes organised for students, faculty

DIMAPUR: As part of the academic curriculum and extracurricular activities, educational institutions and other organisations organised various programmes for the students and faculty.

DGC: The valedictory programme of an entrepreneurship and skill development training organised by the Skill Development Committee, Dimapur Government College (DGC) in collaboration with Nagaland Tool Room and Training Centre (NTTC), Dimapur was held on May 6 at Seminar Hall, DGC. At the programme, the course coordinator, assistant Professor, DGC, Dr. G. Phukato Sema gave a brief report of the training while assistant general manager, NTTC, Epibeni Ezung expressed her appreciation to the college and also hoped for future collaboration with the Skill Hub of the college under National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), New Delhi. She also highlighted about the different courses offered by NTTC and how learning the different skills can be a career option for the youth.

MGM College: MGM College, Dimapur, 6th and 2nd Semester Education Honours students along with assistant professor, Nimmi Varghese on May 6 visited the St. Jo-

seph Palliative Care Trust, Chumoukedima, a project of the Catholic Diocese of Kohima in conjunction with the Medical Sisters of St. Joseph. During the visit, in-charge, Sr. Divya highlighted the students on the fundamentals of palliative care, including its operation and stages. She also asked the students to spread awareness about palliative care, volunteer in such institutes and be a beam of light in the struggling world to people of diverse emotional and spiritual needs.

In a separate event, the training and placement Cell of MGM College, Dimapur conducted a placement drive on May 6, to provide job opportunities for the outgoing students and alumni in the college campus.

SJC (A): Department of sociology St. Joseph’s College (A) Jakhama con-

ducted the annual “sociology gives back” charity drive with the final year students of the department from both postgraduate and undergraduate studies. Under the initiative five teachers and 150 students from the department visited Jo Foundation Inclusive School Agri Colony Kohima on May 6. During the short programme at the school the administrator of the school, Kheyokhole Ltu gave a brief sharing on the school and why it was important to have an inclusive school while assistant professor SJC(A) Alibo Achumi spoke on the vision and purpose of the sociology.

SCC Tuensang: Research Committee of Sao Chang College Tuensang organised its 2nd interdepartmental seminar on the theme, “Listen, Learn & Grow Together” on May

5 at the College Conference Hall. During the programme, papers on the topics, “Domovoy: Folkloristic Belief of Yimkhiung Naga Tribe” and “Sustainable Production of Activated Carbon” were presented by assistant professor, Dr. Soyimla Akam (English) and Dr. Aola Supong (Chemistry) respectively.

Earlier, in a separate event, Alumni Committee, SCC organised a workshop programme on bamboo basketry for 6th semester students on May 3 at College Multipurpose Hall. The programme was sponsored by Alumni Association SCC in collaboration with Tribal Welfare Society, Saksi Colony, Tuensang with I Pallang Khiamniungan and K.K Peshiu Khiamnuigan as resource persons. The program was organized with the objective of passing on

Delhi AocommunitycelebratesMoatsu

the traditional knowledge of basketry to younger generation and educating the students about bamboo basketry as a sustainable craft, which has value in the environment protection endeavour, informed the college.

PGC: A career guidance seminar was organised by the Career Guidance Cell, Pfutsero Government College in collaboration with NIIT Ltd Northeast Circle and Mavericks Academy, Kohima on May 6 at PGC. Resource speakers, program advisor career counsellor and Territory Head of Northeast India for NIIT, Wele Mero and Mavericks Academy team spoke on “New Age Career in Digital Era” and Competitive Exam Preparation” respectively.

SCC Dimapur: Department of Economics, Salt Christian College, Dimapur organised debate

competition on the topic, “Globalization and its impact on the Indian economy” on May 5, wherein best debater of the event was awarded to Karyongdang Jamir (for the motion) and Niuka Wotsa (against the motion).

MGMCSC: MGM College Students’ Council (MGMCSC) elected its new members with Kehangyibe as general secretary, Meithailung as sports secretary, Keyitwale as cultural secretary, Safikul as finance secretary and Suman as ANSU representative.

MHSSK: Modern Higher Secondary School Kohima organised first round of debate competition on the topic, ““Is G-20 sincere towards its objectives” on May 5, wherein Vilezo Dino and Kümtsümong Lims were declared the winners.

UC: A two-day national seminar on “Dynamics of Politics and Civil Society in North East India” was organised by the department of Political Science, Unity College, Dimapur, sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi on May 3-4 at the College Seminar Hall. The keynote address for the inaugural session was delivered by department of political science, NEHU and former regional direc-

tor, ICSSR-NERC, Shillong, Professor (Retd.)

R.K. Satapathy. The technical sessions were taken up by resource persons department of political science, Nagaland University (NU), Lumami, Professor H. John Sema; centre for political studies, School of Social Sciences, JNU, New Delhi, Professor V. Bijukumar; Tezpur University, Assam, Department of Sociology, Dr. Amiya Kumar Das and head, department of sociology, NEHU, Shillong, Professor B. Panda.

CSK: With the aim to support and give opportunity to young girls, Nagaland Adolescent Girls’ Club on May 5 held an inauguration program at Charity School Kohima under the motto “Live the promise”. Special guest of the programme, secretary of Nagaland State Social Welfare Board (NSSWB), Bodeno S Colo said the aims and objectives of NAGC was to empower the girls by giving them access to information about their rights. In a brief message, nodal officer, NAGC, Juliana Medon said students respond better to friends than to authority. She also added that the students must perceive their teachers as a friend who understands and can depend on.

Assistant teacher and teacher in-charge of NAGC at Charity School,

Thejasenuo Metha stressed on the needs, importance and purpose of joining the club.

NEISSR: The closing ceremony of the fiveday North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) fest under the theme, “Engage, energize, evolve” was held on May 5 at Centre Hall, Chümoukedima. The programme was organised by Students’ Council for Social Change (SCSC) NEISSR in collaboration with the Peace Forum, Youth Forum, Community Forum and IQAC cell.

Special guest, ADPM, NSLRM, DMMU, DRDA, Dimapur, M. Yimok Phom spoke on the similarity about the mission and vision of neissr and their organization. She stated that the mission of social work students was not confined to table and chair, but to socialize and meet people in the field and to understand the problems in the society.

Phom appealed the students to be a visionary student and a leader as it will give an additional knowledge, qualification and encouragement to oneself. She also encouraged the students to believe in themselves and leave a good footprint so that their legacy will live forever even if they graduate from the institute.

DIMAPUR: Ao community of Delhi celebrated Moatsu festival on May 6 at Vasundra Vatika Lawns, Delhi Cantonment. The festival was organized by the Delhi Ao Senso Telongjem (DAST) with an objective to conserve traditions and customs of the Ao Naga culture. A press release by DAST president, Imsen -

chuba Pongen informed that the celebration was entirely based on the ancestral village practice of celebration with an aim to impart the younger generation the authentic practices of tradition.

The celebration started with the demonstration of traditional method of fire-making followed by traditional folk songs and

dances. The event also witnessed special cultural dance by the Ao youth of Kishangarh, folk song by the Ao Nagaland Armed Police, Delhi, folk song and dance by Delhi Ao women and special song by Ao Choir.

Hands-on sessions to transmit cultural and heritage values to young

children was also conducted where all Ao children including in-laws children were benefited. Besides the traditional sessions, volleyball league matches were played between various elder groups. At the celebration, DAST president narrated the rationale of the festival and the celebration ended with a traditional feast.

Salhoutuonuo Kruse honoured at the thanksgiving programme.

Members of Meitei Baptist Church Chumoukedima pray for peace in Manipur.

Members of Ao community take part in the Moatsu festival celebration in Delhi on May 6.

Dimapur Government College

St. Joseph’s College

Congress slams Manipur Chief Minister for violence

SAYSHECANNOTABSOLVEHIMSELF,‘HISPATRONSINNEWDELHIANDNAGPUR’

Sonia fighting a lone battle to establish Rahul: Assam CM 208 Tripura students return from violence-hit Manipur

BENGALURU, MAY 7

(IANS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday said that Sonia Gandhi has been trying to establish her son, Rahul Gandhi for the last two decades, but her efforts are yet to yield any results.

Himanta said this during a press conference in Bengaluru, where he is campaigning for the BJP.

guarantee to the people of Karnataka. But, who will take his guarantee? One day he appears with a long beard, the next he is clean shaved. Sometimes he talks about potato making machines and the other day he mentions other things.”

Sarma also criticised Rahul Gandhi for fighting the last Lok Sabha election from Kerala’s Wayanad seat.

AGARTALA, MAY 7

(PTI): Altogether 208 students of Tripura, who have been studying in violence-hit Manipur, have returned to their home state safely, a senior official said on Sunday.

Twenty-one more students are still waiting at Imphal airport there to catch an Agartala-bound flight, he said.

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (PTI): The Congress on Sunday hit out at Chief Minister N Biren Singh over the situation in Manipur, saying he cannot absolve himself and “his patrons in New Delhi and Nagpur” of the responsibility for the horrific violence and killings in the state.

The Congress’ attack came a day after Singh, who heads a BJP-led government in Manipur, chaired an all-party meeting over the prevailing situation in the violence-hit state.

In a tweet, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, “The CM of Manipur finally condescended to meet with all political parties and some civil society groups. But he cannot absolve himself and his patrons in New Delhi and Nagpur of the responsibility for the horrific violence and killings in the state.”

The Congress has been warning of the consequences of what the RSS/BJP has been doing in the northeast, he said.

NPP pushes others for more mergers

SHILLONG, MAY 6 ( AGENCIES): After PDF merger with the NPP, the ruling party is now reaching out to other political parties including the BJP offering them to merge with the NPP, reports Shillong Times.

Informing this, NPP national vice president and Deputy Chief Minister, Prestone Tynsong, said, “I am expecting more and we are reaching out to every party if they can merge (with the NPP)”.

He said that “the doors of NPP are always open so we reach out to every party why not follow suit as PDF and please merge with us.”

Asked about the UDP and BJP, he said, “It (the proposition) includes everybody even BJP also”.

Replying to a query if such a merger would be possible, he said, “Whether possible or not, it is our duty to reach out to all the political parties.”

The NPP with the

merger of the PDF has 28 seats in the House of 60.

It may be recalled that the People’s Democratic Front (PDF) general conference had on Friday unanimously resolved to merge with the NPP.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by party president and Sohra MLA, Gavin Miguel Mylliem in the presence of party working president and Mawkynrew MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh, senior leaders and members of the general conference, central executive committee, zonal committee, district committee and the primary committee.

“But now is the time for a collective resolve to bring Manipur to peace and harmony,” Ramesh added.

Violent clashes broke out between tribals and people belonging to the majority Meitei community in Manipur on Wednesday, displacing thousands of people and killing at least 54.

The clashes broke out after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organised in the 10 hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status.

Sikkim rescues

128 students from Manipur

GANGTOK, MAY 7 (PTI):

A total of 128 students of Sikkim were rescued from violence-hit Manipur, and were being brought back to the state on Sunday, officials said.

The stranded students were first brought to Kolkata on flights arranged by the state government from Imphal. From Kolkata, they boarded buses for Siliguri in northern West Bengal. From Siliguri, they will be brought to state capital Gangtok by SNT buses.

A doctor from Sikkim, who was posted in a far-off area in Manipur, was also safely brought back, officials said.

Chief Secretary VB Pathak led the ‘Operation Gurans’ to bring back the students.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang was constantly monitoring the situation, and took stock of the safety and security of the students, officials said.

AR helps woman give birth in relief camp

Esther Hontah.

The press release stated th at during the ongoing disturbances in the area, Esther was rescued by Assam Rifles to the Mantripukhri based IGAR (South). Team of doctors present at the relief camp conducted the successful c-section delivery of the baby and further declared both mother and child healthy.

Presently, there are nearly 3000 refugees present in the Mantripukhri camp and all are elated and motivated to hear the successful delivery of the baby.

He said, “Even his mother is concerned about Rahul Gandhi how to establish him. Mrs Sonia Gandhi has been fighting a lone battle for the last 20 years to establish her son so that he can earn a decent livelihood.”

Rahul Gandhi has been campaigning in Karnataka and promised to provide 10 lakh jobs to the unemployed youths in the state if Congress comes to power. He has also promised that the upcoming Congress government will spend Rs 1.5 lakh crore for the welfare of farmers.

Attacking the Congress top leader, Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “Today Rahul Gandhi is giving

“After just one defeat, Rahul Gandhi left Amethi and Uttar Pradesh and migrated to Kerala. In the last five years, he never visited Amethi. People there are still confused why they had voted for the Gandhi family for such a long time,” Sarma said.

The Assam Chief Minister also took a swipe at Congress party for their poll promise to ban the right wing outfit Bajrang Dal. He said, “Hindus are never terrorists. The reason they (Congress) wanted to equate Popular Front of India (PFI) and Bajrang Dal was to tell western media that Hindus are also terrorists.”

Funds to SHGs helped BJP secure more women votes: Saha

points more female voters casting their votes for the BJP in comparison to male voters,” he said. Saha also praised the BJYM’s role in the last assembly elections.

Chief Minister Manik Saha expressed happiness over the safe return of the students.

“Happy to see the 1st group of people arrived from Manipur safely. Gradually, all the persons stranded there will be brought back.

I thank our PM Narendra Modi ji , Home Minister Amit Shah ji, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya

M Scindia ji & CM-Manipur

N Biren Singh ji for the constant support,” Saha said in a Facebook post.

State Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, who welcomed the students at Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya airport here on Sunday, said they have returned safely because

of “the chief minister’s bold decision”. “It is good that the students have come back home safely after three-day’s of tension and uncertainty in Manipur. This has been possible because of the chief minister’s bold decision…

It demonstrates the state government’s commitment towards ‘sabka saath sabka vikash and sabka viswas,” Chowdhury told reporters at the airport.

As many as 171 students - all studying at Regional Institute of Medical Sciences in Manipur’s Imphal- have returned directly from there by a special flight early on Sunday and another batch of 37 students

have also been brought back, an official of the Chief Minister’s Office said.

“Twenty-one stranded students, who have contacted the state authorities late, are still waiting at Imphal airport and two officials are there to assist them,” he said. The government will reimburse air tickets of all the students, he said.

Life, however, started limping back to normalcy under the watchful eyes of army drones and helicopters deployed for aerial reconnaissance as curfew was relaxed on Sunday in parts of Manipur which witnessed bloody ethnic rioting over the last few days.

AAI takes steps to help passengers at Imphal airport amid unrest in Manipur

AGARTALA, MAY 7 (PTI): The Tripura government provided huge funds to self-help groups, which helped the BJP get more votes from women in the last assembly election, Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Sunday.

Addressing a programme of the BJYM in Rabindra Bhaban, Saha said the party’s Mohila Morcha did “wonders” in the last elections in mobilising female voters.

“The BJP-IPFT government provided huge funds to women through self-help groups (SHGs). It resulted in 3 percentage

Assam doctor couple held for abuse of minor girl

GUWAHATI, MAY 7

(IANS): A doctor couple has been arrested by police in Guwahati on the charges of abusing a 4-year-old girl child who was allegedly adopted by them, officials said on Sunday.

“The Yuva Morcha has always been a fighting force for the party -- be it elections or the pandemic. We feel secure as Yuva Morcha is always behind the government and the party,” he said.

Maintaining that Tripura has a bright future, the chief minister said new industries were coming up in the state. “A new unit of rubber thread manufacturing has been set up at Bodhjungnagar Industrial Estate in West Tripura and the products will be exported to Bangladesh. The bamboo tiles produced in Tripura were used in the beautification of the Raj Bhavan in Bihar,” he said. Hitting out at the opposition CPI(M), Saha said, “They did not join the swearing-in ceremony of the BJP-led government.

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (PTI): Amid unrest in parts of Manipur, Airports Authority of India (AAI) has taken various measures to help air passengers while airlines have waived rescheduling and cancellation charges for flights to and from the capital city of Imphal.

Curfew was relaxed on Sunday in parts of Manipur which saw ethnic rioting over the last few days. According to a civil aviation ministry official, the AAI is coordinating with the state government for transportation of stranded passengers from the airport to the city under escort and a help desk has also been set up with effect from May 4. The help desk counter is provided with AAI LAN internet facility to print tickets as internet services are unavailable in the state, as per the official. A total of 10,531 pas-

sengers at Imphal airport and the total flight movements handled was 108 till May 6, including 50 defence movements and 6 additional flights, the official added.

Air India and IndiGo have waived fee for rescheduling/cancellation

for all their flights to and from Imphal from May 4 to 7. In a release on Sunday, Air India said it operated special flights to and from Imphal May 6 and 7. IndiGo, on Saturday, said it operated two special flights from Imphal to Kolkata.

Tibetans weave dreams in Arunachal refugee camp

MIAO (ARUNACHAL

PRADESH), MAY 7 (PTI):

Sonam Tsomo, a 50-yearold Tibetan weaver, has made a comeback in her life at the Tibetan settlement in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, after she joined the carpet centre three decades ago.

DIMAPUR, MAY 7 (

NPN): The Assam Rifles who rescued 38 year old woman Esther Hontah wife of Sanlen Hontah, Asst Prof of DM College, Imphal, helped her deliver a healthy baby via c-section at the Mantripukhri relief

camp.

A press release by PRO (Defence),Kohima & Imphal, HQ IGAR (South), Manipur and all the refugees present at Mantripukhri relief camp were jubilant to hear the cries of the newly born delivered by

The mother wholeheartedly expressed her gratitude to the team of doctors and Assam Rifles for the intricate aid and selfless support extended during the hard time for the family, the release added.

Amid turmoil, Mnp gets new chief secy

Correspondent

IMPHAL, MAY 7: Amid the unrest, Manipur government on Sunday appointed its new chief secretary.

Vineet Joshi, a 1992 Manipur cadre IAS officer who recently returned from Central deputation was appointed as the new chief secretary.

He will replace Dr Rajesh Kumar, whose term was previously extended for a year.

“On return from Central deputation, the Governor of Manipur is pleased to appoint Dr Vineet Joshi, IAS (RR 1992) as chief secretary (finance, IT, cabinet and planning), government of Manipur and chief vigilance commissioner, Mani-

pur and principal resident commissioner, Manipur Bhavan, New Delhi in addition, with immediate effect and until further orders,” the order appointing Joshi as chief secretary stated.

Before going on central deputation, Vineet Joshi served as the principal secretary to chief minister N Biren Singh.

Joshi’s has superseded three other IAS officers of Manipur cadres - MH Khan (1988 cadre), Moses Challai (1990 cadre) and P Vaiphei (1991 cadre), a source said.

Joshi’s appointment as chief secretary came after the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet of the government of India approved repatriation of Vineet Joshi to his parent cadre on the request of the Manipur government.

Sangeeta Baruah, a psychiatrist, was arrested by the police on Saturday night from a house in Meghalaya’s Ri Bhoi district where she was supposedly hiding to avert an arrest. Her husband, Walliul Islam, a gastrointestinal and advanced general surgeon, was caught by the police earlier from their residence located at the Manipuri Basti area in the city. Police have also arrested their domestic help Lakshmi for allegedly being involved in the minor abuse case.

The incident came to light when a neighbour of the doctor couple approached the police on Friday with a photo of the minor girl tied to a pole on the terrace amid the scorching heat. A child right activist Miguel Das Queah said that there were earlier complaints too about the doctor couple abusing their adopted daughter, however, there was no proof until the neighbour got the pictures of the minor tied to the pole on the terrace. A police officer said as per initial interrogation, Baruah had beaten the minor with a hot iron rod and even poured hot water on her body.

Today, Tsomo and many of her peers have made the settlement their home, where they weave dreams in their looms.

The carpet centre at Choephelling Tibetan refugee camp is the backbone of the 500-odd Tibetan refugee families whose ancestors had fled Tibet along with the 14th Dalai Lama after the Chinese invasion in 1959.

For a first-time visitor to the carpet centre, the ambience of the unit with music wafting in the air, often in sync with the movement of the weavers’ hands and fingers, is a scene to witness.

Floor and wall carpets have been the unique selling point for the Choephelling Cooperative Society since it was established in 1975 by Tibetan refugees on the outskirts of Miao, the subdivisional headquarters of Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

The settlers here are known for producing excellent quality woollen carpets that are also exported. The centre boasts of having 30 skilled women weavers along with three embossers.

“I have been working

in this craft centre since 1990 and it has been a wonderful experience for me.

The centre has provided employment to more than a hundred Tibetans,” said Tsomo.

Another weaver, 47-year-old Sherab Sangmo, who joined the centre in 1999, felt that the establishment changed her life as she was able to support her family financially now.

“The skill of the craft has changed my life. Before joining the centre, I was an unemployed woman looking for a job to assist my parents economically. But today I am able to support them,” Sangmo added.

Carpet-weaving is one of the 14 activities of the Choephelling Cooperative Society run by around 2,000 shareholders from the settlement straddling 2,000 acres. The society is selfsustaining, handling almost everything from banking to farming, including running

a small tea garden in the settlement.

The bulk of revenue the society generates is from the carpet unit. It also runs a hotel in Assam’s Tinsukia town, said Tenzin Rabjor, the secretary of the cooperative society.

“In the cooperative society, we have a total of 14 units out of which three are welfare units including a library, a fitness centre and an agro mill for processing paddy. We also have a mini bank where we mobilise funds from the members,” Rabjor said.

The secretary added that the society also provides long-term and short-term loans with interests ranging from 8.5 to 9 per cent per annum, to the members for house construction, purchasing taxis, tractors and in other ventures.

The cooperative society also runs a departmental store, an electronic shop, a hardware store besides a

dealership of Amul. It also has a brick manufacturing unit and a mechanical workshop for vehicle repair besides a construction company to execute small construction activities within Miao town.

Productivity slumped after more than four decades and the society was finding it hard to sustain it as the carpet unit and its wooden looms were falling apart and a poor lighting system was affecting the eyesight of the weavers.

The scenario, however, changed after the Changlang district administration undertook a project to overhaul the carpet-weaving centre last year.

“The old looms were non-adjustable for different sizes of carpets. The weavers also had to sit on a low wooden block, bend and stand for different stages of work on a carpet.

“We replaced the old looms with 30 adjustable third-generation metal looms and provided ergonomic seats that are adjustable to four heights, thus eliminating bending and standing. The interiors were refurbished with soothing ceiling lights for better illumination,” Changlang Deputy Commissioner Sunny K Singh said.

The district administration also installed a music system at the centre which plays a range of Tibetan and popular songs for the entertainment of the weavers.

Choephelling Tibetan refugee camp, Miao Carpets.

File photo of vehicles set on fire in Churachandpur.

Students from Tripura, residing in Manipur, upon their arrival in Agartala, early Sunday.

Doctor with the newly born baby at Mantripukhri relief camp.

File photo of Imphal airport.

Manik Saha

SNIPPETS

Several injured in blast near Golden

Temple

CHANDIGARH, MAY

7 (IANS): Several people were injured in a blast at a restaurant in the Heritage Street near the Golden Temple in Punjab’s holy city of Amritsar. The police, however, said it was not a terror attack, but an accident. Panic gripped as the blast took place at busy Heritage Street near Darbar Sahib on Saturday night. Many devotees and locals present at the spot presumed the blast a terror act.

Eight killed, as truck hits pickup van

MORADABAD (UP), MAY 7 (PTI): Eight people, including two teenagers, were killed and more than a dozen injured when a speeding truck hit the pickup van they were travelling in, police here said on Sunday. The accident took place near the Khairkhata village on the Dalpatpur Road in the district’s Bhagatpur area, they said. A group of people were on their way to a wedding function in the pickup van when the accident occurred. Eight people were killed and around 15 injured, Senior Superintendent of Police Hemraj Meena said.

BSF vehicle plunges into gorge in J-K

POONCH/JAMMU, MAY 7 (PTI): A BSF personnel was killed and six injured when their vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, a police official said on Sunday.

The accident occurred in the Balnoi area of Mendhar when the driver of the Border Security Force (BSF) vehicle lost control while negotiating a blind curve on a hilly road, the official said. A rescue operation was immediately launched and the injured were evacuated to a nearby hospital where one of the critically injured BSF personnel succumbed to his injuries, he said.

Cong leader held for ‘embezzlement’

NAGPUR, MAY 7 (PTI):

The Economic Offences Wing (EoW) of Nagpur police on Sunday arrested a Congress leader in connection with alleged embezzlement of nearly Rs 1.5 crore in a shrine trust, an official said. Sheikh Hussain Abdul Jabbar, who was the chairman of Taj Bagh Trust that manages the affairs of Hazrat Tajuddin Baba Dargah, has been accused of transferring Rs 1.5 crore to an account linked to his wife without the permission of the Charity Commissioner and not getting the books audited during his tenure, he said.

One killed, 3 injured due to electric shock

SRINAGAR, MAY 7

(IANS): One person was killed and three others injured after suffering an electric shock in J&K’s Pahalgam hill station on Sunday, officials said. According to officials, four persons were injured due to electric shock in Lidroo village of Pahalgam, and taken to hospital where one among them succumbed to injuries.

2 killed in road accident in UP

BALLIA (UP), MAY

7 (PTI): Two men were killed and three others injured when a pickup van they were travelling in crashed into a truck parked on the roadside here, police said on Sunday. The incident happened on Saturday night when the vehicle carrying a DJ from Ghazipur’s Qasimabad met with an accident near NibuKabirpur village, Circle Officer (CO) Mohammad Faheem said.

Corruption ‘terrorism’ in K’taka: Priyanka

MANGALURU, MAY 7 (PTI): Corruption, looting, price rise and unemployment are the real “terrorism” in Karnataka today and the ruling BJP had failed to address the actual issues of people while the party was in power, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said on Sunday.

Addressing a huge public meeting at Moodbidri in Dakshina Kannada district here, she said BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi are always talking about extremism and national security when elections are round the corner.

“They are not talking about your (people’s) real issues. I want to tell the BJP leaders that price rise, unemployment and the 40 per cent corruption of the BJP government are the real extremism,” she said.

She said the BJP is making promises at the time of elections, but the people should cast their votes on the basis of what they have delivered in the last three years in Karnataka.

“While talking about dharma, national security and terrorism, the BJP leaders do not see that thousands of farmers had committed

suicide in Karnataka under their rule. More than 1,000 unemployed youth have taken their own lives,” she charged.

The BJP government had looted Rs 6 lakh crore during their rule, she alleged. Medium and small industries in the state have suffered big losses after demonetisation and wrong implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and thousands of youth were rendered jobless.

The Union government had destroyed the idea of bank nationalisation by merging four public sector banks — Syndicate Bank, Vijaya Bank, Corporation Bank and Canara Bank — which where the pride of Mangaluru, she said.

Vadra said all the airports and sea ports in the country including the New

Sonia fighting a lone battle to establish Rahul: Himanta

Mangalore Port are being sold to crorepatis who are the friends of the BJP regime at the Centre, thereby denying employment to thousands of local people.

The BJP is now trying to destroy dairy cooperative Karnataka Milk Federation’s Nandini milk brand which has been serving the people of Karnataka by merging it with Amul that is based out of Gujarat, she charged.

“It is the terrorism of corruption ruling the country,” the Congress leader said.

Vadra alleged that as BJP is busy indulging in looting the nation’s wealth, they have no time to address the issues of women’s development, farmers problems, price rise and the unemployment among the youth.

“They don’t work for the people when they are in power and visit them during the elections by preaching on dharma, terrorism and security,” she said.

Vadra said all the people-friendly schemes of the previous Congress government in the state including low-cost food outlets Indira canteens will be restored.

Every promise in the guarantee card given to the peo-

Cong talking about ‘separating’

K’taka

ple will be fulfilled, she said.

For the Karnataka Assembly election, Congress has announced five ‘guarantees’ — 200 units of free power to all households (Gruha Jyoti), Rs 2,000 monthly assistance to the woman head of every family (Gruha Lakshmi), 10 kg of rice free to every member of a BPL household (Anna Bhagya), and Rs 3,000 every month for graduate youth and Rs 1,500 for diploma holders (both in the age group of 18-25) for two years (Yuva Nidhi), along with promise of free travel for women in public transport buses — upon coming to power in the state.

Vadra said Congress governments in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan had implemented their promises made to farmers and pensioners in their respective poll manifestos.

The Congress will also introduce Rs 10 lakh insurance scheme for fishermen and Rs 1 lakh interest-free loan for fisherwomen as part of ‘Stand with Mogaveera’ scheme, she said, adding that the diesel subsidy for fisherfolk will be increased. Mogaveera is a major fishing community living predominantly in coastal Karnataka.

from India: PM in his last campaign rally

NANJANGUD (K’TAKA), MAY 7 (PTI):

In a blistering attack on the Congress during his last campaign rally ahead of the May 10 Assembly polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the party of openly advocating for “separating” Karnataka from India.

He alleged that the “disease” of the “tukdetukde gang” had reached the Congress’s top level.

“When it comes to working against India’s interests, Congress’s ‘royal family’ will be at the forefront. I want to speak about a serious issue here, I want to say it as there is a lot of pain in my heart. This country can never forgive such a game. This family, to influence the politics in the country, is encouraging foreign forces to interfere,” Modi claimed.

Addressing the public meeting here in Mysuru district, he accused Congress leaders of secretly meeting foreign diplomats who hate India, repeatedly indulging in activities that insult India’s sovereignty and said they were not ashamed of it.

Stating that in this Kar-

nataka election, Congress’s ‘shahi parivar’ had gone a step ahead “breaking all the limits and crushing the feelings of the country”, Modi said, “not only Karnataka, I want to tell this to the entire country with lot of pain that in this election Congress’s ‘shahi parivar’ yesterday came to Karnataka and said that they want to protect the “sovereignty” of Karnataka. “Karnataka’s sovereignty, you know what is the meaning of it? They have sat in Parliament for so many years, they have taken oath on India’s Constitution, and they say this... When a country becomes independent that country is called a sovereign country. The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India,” he

said, without taking any names.

Asking people whether they approved of it and whether they would punish the Congress for such a statement, the Prime Minister said, it meant that the Congress was openly advocating for separating Karnataka from India.

“I had never thought that the disease of the tukdetukde gang would reach the Congress’s top level,” he said, accusing the party of insulting Kannada fighters who fought for India’s independence and insulting the patriotism of crores of Kannadigas.

Noting that this was the land where ‘Rashtra Kavi’ Kuvempu had said Karnataka was an integral part of India with the lines in the state anthem, “Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate Jaya he Karnataka Maate”, Modi said, “For every Kannadiga, Karnataka is a mother and she has been described as the daughter of ‘Bharat ma’. I can feel the feelings of Kannadigas.”

Insulting the feelings of Karnataka was like insulting the “culture and pride” of the state, he added.

High voltage campaigning for Karnataka polls to end Today

BENGALURU, MAY 7

BENGALURU, MAY

7 (IANS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday said that Sonia Gandhi has been trying to establish her son, Rahul Gandhi for the last two decades, but her efforts are yet to yield any results.

Himanta said this during a press conference in Bengaluru, where he is campaigning for the BJP.

He said, “Even his mother is concerned about Rahul Gandhi how to establish him. Mrs Sonia Gandhi has been fighting a lone battle for the last 20 years to establish her son so that he can earn a decent livelihood.”

Rahul Gandhi has been campaigning in Karnataka and promised to provide 10 lakh jobs to the unemployed youths in the state if Congress comes to power. He has also promised that the upcoming Congress government will spend Rs 1.5 lakh crore for the welfare of farmers.

Attacking the Congress top leader, Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “Today Rahul

Gandhi is giving guarantee to the people of Karnataka. But, who will take his guarantee? One day he appears with a long beard, the next he is clean shaved. Sometimes he talks about potato making machines and the other day he mentions other things.”

Sarma also criticised Rahul Gandhi for fighting the last Lok Sabha election from Kerala’s Wayanad seat. “After just one defeat, Rahul Gandhi left Amethi and Uttar Pradesh and migrated to Kerala. In the last five years, he never visited Amethi. People there are still confused why they had voted for the Gandhi family for such a long time,” Sarma said.

IAS officer ‘kingpin’ of illegal liquor syndicate in C’garh: ED

rently posted as the joint secretary in state’s industry and commerce department.

(PTI): The high voltage campaign for the May 10 Assembly elections in Karnataka will come to an end on Monday as all three major political parties in the state -- BJP, Congress and JD(S) -- are busy making their last pitch to woo the voters.

The top guns of all the major political parties were on a campaign blitz across the state in the past few days, even as the ruling BJP has been striving to break the 38-year-old pattern of alternating governments and retain its southern citadel.

The Congress on its part is working hard to wrest power from the BJP to give itself much-needed elbow room and momentum to position itself as the main opposition player in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The JD(S) led by former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda was seen putting all its might into campaigning, wanting to emerge as “king” and not “kingmaker”, hoping to get the required numbers to form a government on its own.

“Government with full

majority” seemed to be the favourite slogan of the leaders of all the political parties during the campaigning for the elections to the 224-member Assembly, as they stressed on getting a clear mandate to form a strong and stable government in the state. While BJP’s campaign largely centralised with the focus being on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ‘double-engine’ government, national issues and programmes or achievements of the union government coupled with a few from the state, the Congress’s by and large focused

on local issues and was also run by its local leaders initially. However, its central leaders like AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra joined in subsequently.

JD(S) too ran a highly localised campaign, anchored solely by its leader H D Kumaraswamy, with party patriarch Deve Gowda too joining in, despite advanced age and related ailments.

Modi’s campaign juggernaut in the past one week since April 29 moved steadily ahead with as many as 18 mega public meetings and

Tharoor calls for Prez’s rule in Manipur

six road shows so far. The PM canvassed votes for BJP candidates across the state with the poll slogan ‘Ee Baariya Nirdhara, Bahumatada BJP Sarkara’ (This Time’s Decision: Majority BJP Government). Ahead of the March 29 announcement of polls, Modi had visited the state seven times since January, to unveil several government schemes and projects, and addressed numerous meetings of beneficiaries of the government’s various schemes. According to BJP leaders, Modi’s campaigning across the state has boosted the party’s morale

and confidence among the electorate, which they hope will convert into votes and help the party script history in the polls. A number of BJP leaders including party national president J P Nadda, Chief Ministers of BJP ruled states like Uttar Pradesh’s Yogi Adiyanath, Assam’s Himanta Biswa Sarma, Madya Pradesh’s Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Goa’s Pramod Sawant as well as Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, S Jaishankar, Smriti Irani, Nitin Gadkari, among others too have travelled to various parts of the state for campaigning.

Anil Tuteja

RAIPUR, MAY 7 (PTI):

The Enforcement Directorate has alleged that Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Anil Tuteja was the “kingpin” of an illegal liquor syndicate in Chhattisgarh along with liquor businessman Anwar Dhebar and the corruption money was also used for electioneering.

In its application filed in a special court in Raipur on Saturday seeking remand of liquor businessman Anwar Dhebar, the ED said there was a massive liquor trade scam in Chhattisgarh by a syndicate comprising high-level state government officials, private persons and political executives that generated corruption money of more than Rs 2,000 crore.

Anwar is the elder brother of Congress leader and Raipur Mayor Aijaz Dhebar. Tuteja, a 2003 batch IAS officer, is cur-

The ED arrested Anwar Dhebar on Saturday. The special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court subsequently sent him in four-day custody of the ED.

The agency filed a case last year against Tuteja and others to investigate the matter under the PMLA on the basis of prosecution complaint (charge sheet) filed by the Income Tax Department in a Delhi court against Tuteja and others, it said.

A criminal syndicate was operating in Chhattisgarh which was making illegal bribe collections by controlling the high-level management of key state departments, particularly the excise department (that deals in liquor), and state public sector undertakings (PSUs), the ED claimed.

“The syndicate comprised of high-level state government officials, private persons and political executives of the state government. Tuteja was managing the affairs and was the kingpin of this illegal syndicate along with Anwar,” it alleged.

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (AGENCIES): The clashes that broke out between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community have so far displaced thousands of people and killed at least 55.

Hitting out at the ruling BJP in Manipur over the clashes between tribals and members of the dominant Meitei community, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday called for President’s rule in the state. Tharoor said the voters of Manipur are feeling “gross betrayed” just a year after voting the Bharatiya Janata Party back into power, reports Hindustan Times news.

“As the Manipur vio-

lence persists, all rightthinking Indians must ask themselves what happened to the much-vaunted good governance we had been promised,” Tharoor wrote on Twitter.

“The voters of Manipur are feeling grossly betrayed just a year after putting the BJP in power in their state. It’s time for President’s Rule; the state

Govt is just not up to the job they were elected to do,” he added.

The northeastern state saw ethnic clashes between Meiteis, the dominant community in Imphal Valley with over 53% of the total state population, and the tribal communities, especially Kukis, residing in the hill districts. The immediate trigger for the violence was a proposal to include Meiteis in the scheduled tribe (ST) category.

The death toll rose to at least 55 on Saturday but there was little clarity on the true scale of the damage and fatalities after the state convulsed through two days of violence.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND OFFICE OF EMPOWERED OFFICER NAGALAND RURAL ROAD DEVELOPMENT AGENCY NAGALAND : KOHIMA

PRESS RELEASE

Brainette Education Foundation Montessori & Nursery Teachers Training Registered under

JOB VACANCY

Kohima, the 05th of May, 2023

WORKSHOP ON FULL DEPTH RECLAMATION (FDR) Nagaland Rural Road Development Agency (NGRRDA) under the Aegis of Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) will conduct a Workshop cum Training Program on Full Depth Reclamation at Kisama Heritage Village (Bamboo Hall) with resource persons from CRRI & IITs on 11th & 12th of May 2023. All the Contractors & Site Engineers are cordially invited to attend the Workshop. Kindly contact PMGSY Cell in the Office of the Chief Engineer PWD(R&B) for details of the program and confirmation of your presence latest by 10/05/2023 during Office hour. Sd/Chief Engineer, PWD(R&B) & Empowered Officer, NGRRDA Nagaland: Kohima DC-539/23

P

for a reputed Residential School in Dimapur. Applicant must be a committed Christian and have a Graduate Degree either Theological or secular background (Starting salary Rs. 9000/- P.M.).

The jobs require you to live within the campus where food and lodging is provided.

Narendra Modi

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra

PM during a roadshow ahead of Karnataka Assembly elections, in Bengaluru, Sunday. (PTI)

Rahul Gandhi with senior leader Shettar and others during a public meeting, in Hubballi, Saturday. (PTI)

Himanta Biswa Sarma

Shashi Tharoor

Thorny crown

Nearly seven months after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III was officially crowned King on May 6 at a glittering ceremony at Westminster Abbey in London which was a mix of an ancient ceremony dating back 1,000 years and incorporated with some modern touches. The 74-year old monarch was formally proclaimed the new monarch on September 8,2022 two days after the death of the reigning Queen. He officially became King when the Archbishop of Canterbury, the spiritual leader of the Anglican Church, placed the 360-year-old St Edward’s Crown on Charles’ head as he sat upon a 14th-century throne in Westminster Abbey. At 73, King Charles is the oldest monarch to take the British throne. His wife Queen Consort Camilla was also crowned during the coronation and both became King and Queen of the UK and other Commonwealth realms. Even in the run up to the coronation there were hoards of protestors who chanted and held placards that read “Not Our King.” King Charless III has not been wholly accepted by his subjects as only 49% of the public believed he was doing a good job versus 9% thinking otherwise. Views of Queen Camilla are more split, with 34% rating her favourably, 32% unfavourably, and 31% saying their view is neither positive or negative. These are not very healthy rating for a reigning King but there are several reasons. Britons can’t seem to trust Charles because he had betrayed the love he had for Camilla to marry Diana. He then betrayed Diana to carry on an affair with Camilla. Charles publicly admitted that he started having an affair with Camilla Parker Bowles in 1986 while he was still married to Princess Diana. He also treated Princess Diana poorly on a number of occasions. Research revealed that nearly half of the British public wanted Charles to step aside and give the throne to his oldest son when Queen Elizabeth II passed away. Among factors that have made King Charles III less popular is because a majority of Britons prefer his son Prince William as King instead. Unlike Charles who hasn’t always seemed eager to relate to ordinary British citizens, Prince William, on the other hand, has reached out to people much as his mother did, and he has a compassionate way about him. That is why many people wanted to see William as King and not Charles. The late Queen Elizabeth II reigned for 70 years and 214 days and was the longest reigning monarch of the UK and Commonwealth. Despite severe criticisms against the Royal family, from Princess Diana’s death to Prince Andrew’s scandal and Prince Harry’s controversies, Queen Elizabeth II managed to weather the storms. After Elizabeth’s demise and under King Charles III, the cracks within the Royal family has deepened. Prince Andrew has been literally thrown out of Buckingham Palace by King Charles for sex scandal, while Prince Harry and Meghan have been asked to vacate Frogmore Cottage after their explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey when Queen Elizabeth was alive and Harry’s autobiography, Spare after the Queen’s demise. Unfortunately for King Charles III his estrangement with his brother Andrew and cutting off his son Harry, due to compelling reasons, could not have come at the worst time.

DailyDevotion Building For Eternity

Which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it… —Luke 14:28

Our Lord was not referring here to a cost which we have to count, but to a cost which He has already counted. The cost was those thirty years in Nazareth, those three years of popularity, scandal, and hatred, the unfathomable agony He experienced in Gethsemane, and the assault upon Him at Calvary— the central point upon which all of time and eternity turn. Jesus Christ has counted the cost. In the final analysis, people are not going to laugh at Him and say, “This man began to build and was not able to finish” (Luke 14:30).

The conditions of discipleship given to us by our Lord in verses 26, 27, and 33 mean that the men and women He is going to use in His mighty building enterprises are those in whom He has done everything. “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple ” (Luke 14:26). This verse teaches us that the only men and women our Lord will use in His building enterprises are those who love Him personally, passionately, and with great devotion— those who have a love for Him that goes far beyond any of the closest relationships on earth. The conditions are strict, but they are glorious.

All that we build is going to be inspected by God. When God inspects us with His searching and refining fire, will He detect that we have built enterprises of our own on the foundation of Jesus? (see 1 Corinthians 3:10-15). We are living in a time of tremendous enterprises, a time when we are trying to work for God, and that is where the trap is. Profoundly speaking, we can never work for God. Jesus, as the Master Builder, takes us over so that He may direct and control us completely for His enterprises and His building plans; and no one has any right to demand where he will be put to work.

By Oswald Chambers

Quotes

“We need much less t han we think we need.”

The deadly scourge covid 19 is officially over killing about 7 million people across the world and at least 5 lakh in India alone devastating the world economy.

That is official from World Health Organisation (WHO). But the grim fact comes from WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The devastation is far worse than official figures. He says, “Almost 7 million deaths are reported to WHO, but we know that the toll is several times higher – at least 20 million”. A staggering figure.

If that is the official stand of WHO, it may be that India too had many more casualties than officially reported at 531,369 between January 3, 2020 to May 3, 2023. On May 5, 2022, WHO said covid19 claimed 4.7 million, Indian lives. This is almost ten times the official figure.

It ruined so many families across the world and also establishes that during such grim tragedies the world has yet evolve a method for having actual counts of the affected or dead. The estimates of the economy hit may also be far from the actual. World

What Covid cost India

economy is stated to have declined by 5.2 percent and overall may have dropped by 13-32 percent due to lockdown.

According to the Reserve Bank of India’s Report on Currency and Finance for financial year 2022, released on April 29, India’s lost output in 2021 totaled Rs 19.1 lakh crore. This declined to Rs 17.1 lakh crore in 2022. In the current financial year, output loss due to the pandemic is seen further declining to Rs 16.4 lakh crore.A loss of Rs 52.6 lakh crore or 12 percent of GDP.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank estimated slower Indiangrowth during covid19. Migrant and daily wage workers were the worst hit during lockdown. The sudden lockdown threw almost 18 crore migrant workers into disarray. They walked down thousands of kilometers across the country to reach back home suffering extreme humiliation by police and different state agencies. The loss of jobs was gradually sustained by the freed foodgrain dole started by the central government.

Together, the United States, the European Union,

Britain and Brazil — all upper-middle- or high-income countries — account for one-eighth of the world’s population but nearly half of all reported deaths. The U.S. alone has recorded over 745,000 lives lost, more than any other nation. The US could face a fiscal crisis in the next few months after the government hit its $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. At the same time, the Bank of Japancompared to the median U.S. mortgage, the current level of federal debt is 230 million times larger. The third largest economy, Japan, is having precarious finances, says Japan’s finance minister Shunichi Suziki.

Shivaji Sarkar

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) projects growth in India’s gross domestic product (GDP) to moderate to 6.4 percent in fiscal year 2023 ending on 31 March 2024 and rise to 6.7 percent in FY2024, driven by private consumption and private investment on the back of government policies to improve government’s total liabilities rise 2.6 percent to Rs.152.61 lakh core. By end March 2024 liabilities to touch Rs 169.46 lakh

crore. This is on the back of boosting infra projects and fast tracking the economy. It would mean that various burdens on the citizens are likely to increase. The IMF suggested to bring down tax liabilities but it may not be possible. Despite this India is projected to be a $ 10 trillion economy by 2035 at a moderate to high inflation level, says the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR). With more than half the population under 25 and a national median age of 28., India’s swelling labour force is an asset as workforces in Japan, China and South Korea get greyer and greyer, says CEBR. Global FDI dropped 24 percent. But UNCTAD’s Global Investment Report places India as the seventh largest recipient of FDI of $ 84 billion, including $ 7.1 billion, in the services sector. However, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade data say that FDI inflow fell by 15 percent to $36.75 billion during the April-December of 2022-2023(FY23). Foreign portfolio investors also sold a net of $18

billion during 2022-23.

Covid has also come as a surprise booster for India’s pharmaceutical, private hospitals and medical device manufacturers. India also emerged as a major vaccine producer.

India is the world’s 3rd largest drug producer in terms of volume. It manufactures 60 percent of vaccines globally, which accounts for 40to 70 percent of the WHO’s demand for Pertussis, Bacillus Calmette Guerin, Tetanus, and Diphtheria vaccines. India also contributes 90 percent of the global demand for the vaccine to treat measles. However, India has been facing high competition from China on supplies of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) at a much lower cost. A threat to national health security due to high dependency on China led the government to set up a task force to review India’s API sector. NITI Aayog and other representatives from the pharma industry suggested reduction of dependency on China and promote the domestic industry.

Along with this the insurance sector has also made major gains. They

have increased medical and all other insurance rates by over 20 to 40 percent. The market share of private sector companies in the general and health insurance market increased from 48.03 percent in 2020 and 49.31 percent 2021. But their profit also increased phenomenally percent as they also increased the premium rates sharply. The commissions to agents of this is over 60 percent. This is an improper business model and government must intervene.

Elliott Harris, UN Chief Economist and Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development stated that “The pace and strength of the recovery from the crisis not only hinges on the efficacy of public health measures in slowing the spread of the virus, but also on the ability of countries to protect jobs and incomes, particularly of the most vulnerable members of our societies.” The crisis will likely accelerate shift toward digitalisation, automation. It would further aggravate income equality. Covid has been a mixed bag for India. But it hopes to come out of it faster than the global majors.

ULBs and Gender Politics in Naga Society – Part 2

(The Issue of the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections in Nagaland, along with women reservation and gender issue, had earlier attracted vehement, even violent, reactions from the Naga public and further divided the Naga society. Even lives were lost. Another attempt was made to impose these elections, but thankfully, this time the State Government withdrew the legislation before things got out of hand and the matter has died down for now. But this is sure to rise up again in some form in the near future. Sadly, after so many years, a lot of the issues under discussion still seem to be in a state of confusion. This is an attempt to bring some clarity as the writer sees them).

Gender equality is an emotive issue, with everyone having an opinion, very often strong ones. And they are usually very different, depending on the cultures people come from because that is the prism through which we all look at the issue. Therefore, this is one issue where it is best for everyone to respect each other’s views, tolerate our differences and learn to co-exist and co-operate.

For Nagas, “Gender-Equality” is basically a foreign concept and not according to Naga culture. The little I have seen of what gender-equality is as promoted by feminists seem mostly promoted by Western women and has more to prove that women are not inferior to men or even to prove, in certain cases, that women are superior to men! Women empowerment is fine and we must all strive to do this but numerical equality for its own sake is neither possible nor makes much sense!

Naga Society not Patriarchal

But first of all, let us try to clarify whether Naga society is “patriarchal” or not? In the wake of the election of Mrs Salhoutonuo Kruse in the Western Angami Assembly constituency, someone from Khonoma, in a social media post, boasted that well-known patriachal Khonoma has set-up and voted a woman to power! This is factually wrong on all counts. Although Salhoutonuo comes from Khonoma, she was not a candidate of Khonoma village alone; she represents all the villages in the entire Western Angami assembly constituency and originally came from Peducha in the same constituency.

But more importantly for our discussion, Khonoma village and its people cannot be termed “patriarchal” in any sense of the term. The trouble is, feminists and women activists, including Naga women, have given themselves such a diluted and broad definition of the word in order to suit their own vested propaganda and points of view that the meaning of the word itself has become confusing to most people. But

no Naga tribe that I know of, in the past or now, is ruled by an all arching Patriarch, not even among the Semas with their chiefships or the Konyaks with the absolute rulers, the Anghs – the systems are different. Certainly, there is no such thing among the Angamis and the Tenyimia group of tribes. Indeed, the “pure democracy” of the Angamis is the very opposite of Patriarchy. In the case of the Angamis Hutton said that “it is difficult to comprehend how, in view of their peculiar independence of character, their villages held together at all before the coming of the British Government”. The Angami also exercised a kind of veto power where the individual himself was concerned. Patriarchy denotes the presence of an all-powerful patriarch to whom everyone pays allegiance and blind obedience. Democracy and patriarchy are anathema to each other; one cannot exist/survive in the presence of the other.

Naga society is not patriarchal but patrilineal. The family name and the family tree are passed down through the male children. So here hinges the very important issue of identity. This is where issues of ancestral property distribution etc comes up. But let us come back to that a little later and first discuss Naga culture and how we look at the entire gender issue.

In Naga (Angami) society, we look at the man-woman relationship as a “partnership” and there is no competition about being “equal”! They complement each other and one without the other is incomplete – together they complete one another and form a whole unit. Each has a different role to play which the other is not naturally gifted to do so. For example, child-bearing and early rearing cannot be done by a man, or as capably as a woman, however much he may try. Likewise, there are other areas in which both a man and a woman have natural abilities to play their own roles. In this sense and context, “equality” is neither wanted nor useful. On the other hand, the search for equality for equality’s sake, can and usually end in unhealthy competition between the two. Even the celebrated Naga Feasts of Merit cannot be performed without the woman at the man’s side. If the wife had pre-deceased the husband, it cannot be performed! Or even if performed, these cannot be used for live occasions by present/future generations. This is the reason why the Hiekha Khwehu (Dahou) in Khonoma village is the only one that can be used by the Age-groups for their annual song fest and group competitions! But “ability” is a different issue. And each one, man or

woman, must be enabled/empowered to contribute to the best of their ability and such abilities should not be stifled. In many societies, for whatever reasons, women have largely been relegated to the “home and kitchen”. There is nothing wrong with “home and kitchen” for this is from where every child, including statesmen and rulers, come from. But most societies have given it a slanted look as if these were somehow “inferior”! Will we have hate-filled and violent societies if we have warm, cooperative and harmonious/loving families?! I don’t think so. The unity, cohesiveness and caring that the mother can inspire and engender in the members of the family cannot be replaced by anyone. Even in Angami society, there are stories about how only because of their women, the clan had stayed together and united. On the other hand, many of today’s women tend to think that a public role, such as in visible public meetings, speaking and leading or earning from outside of home and hearth are somehow more important/superior than “home and kitchen”. They are not. They are important only because we conceive them as important. Covid-19 has recently sent many office workers packing to work from home, as opposed to working from office, and giving a different perspective.

Another example, there have been a big hungama recently about not allowing hijab in India and the forcible imposition of hijab in Iran. The issue is not about robing or disrobing a woman. The main issue is about the power to control and police free-will! Such fetters are not healthy. There should be free choice of the person in such matters.

Many champions of gender equality talk about various issues of suppression of women’s rights especially in Naga society. Due to head-hunting and constant warfare in Naga history, a preference for the male child had grown up around Naga families and society traditionally. At the same time, as the man was usually doing the warrior/guard duty even in the fields almost the entire workload slowly and unjustly fell on the woman! Such practices had also given a slant in perception beyond what is true.

On the other hand, if we examine different societies today, Naga society is one of the safest places for women. In Naga society, culturally, if a woman is not safe the man’s honour is at stake – how many societies are there in the world where this can be said?! But, true, physical safety alone is not sufficient. Security has different connotations and they need to be satisfied to the extent possible.

Women should be allowed, and be free, to pursue any field of endeavour they choose to follow.

Many also point to Naga women not being in politics. This is not just Naga society but elsewhere too and it is a question of personal/family choice. The point is Naga women are not disallowed to enter the field. Traditionally, the women did not take part in community decision-making in public meetings. Hence, the slant in perception. If we exclude the women from decision-making in society, we are excluding about half the population and that will surely result in loss. Very often womenfolk are also more practical and bring new ideas that work. They ought to be included at all decision-making bodies/levels. However, it is also wrong to impose the women on the society –here we will again be forcing them! Why should we or anyone reduce women to mere statistics to fill up a certain quota or percentage? Having the backing of the State and legislation do not make a wrong thing right. For instance, one has seen in many Village Councils in Nagaland, women representatives are nominated but their task usually are to cook and serve the other members and guests. I don’t think this in any way promotes women welfare. Although this may satisfy Government need for statistics one thinks such practices only suppress and demean women instead of empowering them. Meanwhile, if there are women who are able and willing to enter elections, and join public life, let everyone become blind to anatomy and vote ability. That way, all will gain.

Many also talk about the issue of inheritance. Here many misunderstand without even making the effort to objectively look at the issues involved. In most Naga tribal societies, there is a difference between acquired property and inherited ancestral landed property. In the tribe communities I know of, acquired properties can be disposed off by the couple (husband-wife) as they wished. This means they can gift any acquired property, landed or moveable, to any child, boy or girl without discrimination. If there is any discrimination regarding acquired properties, it is an aberration and a fault of the individual family and not that of the tribe community or society.

Another example from Khonoma.

An ancestral woman of Chasie clan, a refugee who took shelter in Tunjoy village along with other family members, following the 1879-80 Battle of Khonoma and British persecution, returned and married a man from another khel. She was good at making hair bands for women. She used her talent and earned enough to purchase a

jhum field on the outskirts of the village. This she gifted to a son of her own choosing without any interference from her husband. One of her grandsons, who became a Naga wrestling champion, was still living in this plot till his death last year – this same person was kind to take me to meet with the family in Tunjoy who had given shelter to our ancestors in 1879-80. In the case of ancestral landed property, it is inherited by the male children. They are usually only landed property exclusively in the village. This involves the patriliny system involving the ‘family tree’ and the name of the clans. Here one’s identity is deeply embedded. Therefore ancestral landed property in the village, obviously, cannot be distributed to both male and female children as the female child will marry outside the clan (intra-clan marriage is prohibited) and take a different name. If ancestral landed property were distributed to both male and female children, absolute chaos will result for the community and village society, when the woman’s children from outside the village or tribe, come to claim landed property of the family/clan in the village. Identity issues will also become blurred. This cannot be allowed. What also needs to be remembered is that these inherited landed properties in the village by the male children are not to be sold or disposed off as they (inheritors) are mere temporary custodians. The properties are meant to be kept, used during the life span of the person, improved upon and handed down to his progeny so as to sustain the clan and its traditions/history etc. (It is also incumbent upon the male child/children, inheritors of the landed properties, to look after the parents and other dependents in the family, including the female children.)

The same may be true in a matrilineal system such as those followed by the Khasis and Garos etc in Meghalaya where the female children inherit the properties and perpetuate the clan name. But I have not heard of anyone fighting for the gender-equality of the males in Meghalaya?! Why did the Khasis adopt matriliny and the Nagas patriliny? Or why some are born tribal and others are not? Questions can be endless and even unhelpful. The rational common sense, therefore, is for everyone to learn to respect our differences so that we can all co-exist peacefully and even meaningfully through cooperation. This is possible if we all believe that our cultures, however different to one another, are given to us all by God for a purpose.

Charles Chasie D’ Block, Kohima

Post-mortem

~ Maya Angelou

5

SNIPPETS

killed as bus falls into ditch in UP

JALAUN (UP), MAY 7

(PTI): A bus carrying a marriage party fell into a roadside ditch in the district, leaving five people dead and 17 others injured early Sunday, police said. The bus was hit by another vehicle near Gopalpura village following which it fell into a ditch, Superintendent of Police Iraj Raja said.

Stray dog tied, dragged to death

DURG, MAY 7 (PTI): A security guard of a residential building was arrested for allegedly tying a stray dog with wires and dragging it to death in Chhattisgarh’s Durg city, police said on Sunday. The incident took place on May 2 and an FIR was registered on Friday, he said.

Left women’s groups call for protests

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (PTI): Four national Left wing women’s organisations have given a joint call to hold nationwide protests for the immediate arrest of BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Haryana minister Sandeep Singh over allegations of sexual harassment made by wrestlers. In a statement, the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA), National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW), Coordination

POW-PMS-IJM All India Mahila Sanskritik Sanghatan (AIMSS) and the All India Agragami Mahila Sanghatan (AIAMS), expressed solidarity with the protesting wrestlers.

ATS raids 30 locations of PFI in UP

LUCKNOW, MAY 7 (IANS): The UP Police’s Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Sunday carried raids at 30 locations across the state on members of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). Raids are going on in Meerut, Moradabad, Varanasi, Azamgarh, Bahraich, Barabanki, Lucknow and some other cities. According to a ATS release, 21 members of PFI have been detained so far and 70 persons are being questioned.

40% commission govt will be reduced to 40 seats: Rahul

BENGALURU, MAY 7 (PTI): Questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence on corruption in Karnataka, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday sought to know how much each engine of the “doubleengine government” got from the “40 per cent commission” in the state.

He also accused the Prime Minister of disqualifying him as MP for raising the Adani issue in Parliament.

“For the last three years, there is a BJP government in Karnataka and the Prime Minister is aware of corruption here. You only call it a ‘double engine government’. This time, the double engine is stolen,” Gandhi said at a public meeting in Anekal near here in poll-bound Karnataka.

“Modiji, please tell the people of Karnataka, which engine got how much out of 40 per cent commission,” he asked the Prime Minister.

Dwelling further, he said the contractors’ association in Karnataka wrote

to the Prime Minister that 40 per cent commission was charged from them but Modi did not reply.

Stating that there were scams upon scams, he said large-scale irregularities took place in the recruitment of police sub-inspectors, assistant professors, assistant engineers and in the Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited which manufactures the renowned Mysore Sandal Soap.

In the Mysore Sandal scam, an MLA’s son was caught with Rs 8 crore cash and a BJP MLA said the Chief Minister’s post can be bought by paying Rs 2,500 crore, the Congress leader said.

P Chidambaram mocks

PM’s Bajrang Dal defence

“Even a six-year-old child is aware of the corruption that has taken place here in Karnataka,” Gandhi said.

The former Congress president said the Prime Minister comes and says that the Congress abused him 91 times but he should first tell Karnataka what he did to check corruption, what inquiry was conducted and how many people were jailed.

“Everyone knows that there is a double-engine government here. If theft has taken place in Karnataka, then Delhi must have been benefitted. Otherwise, the Prime Minister would have done something for Karnataka government,” he added.

Gandhi complained that he had asked Modi about his relation with businessman Gautam Adani, chairman of Adani Group, in Parliament, after which his membership was disqualified from the Lok Sabha.

“I raised the question

There should be no politics over terrorism: Ghulam Nabi Azad

JAMMU, MAY 7 (PTI):

DPAP chairman Ghulam

Nabi Azad on Sunday said there should be no politics over terrorism and that terror in any part of the world is not in the interest of public.

The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister also credited the BJP-led Centre for bringing peace to the region, but said several things like the abrogation of Article 370 and reconstituting Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories should not have been done.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a party event here, Azad said, “Terrorism in any part of the world, including Jammu and Kashmir, is not in the interest of the public. It is the public which suffers huge losses and are forced into poverty and illiteracy.

Before terrorism, J&K was

Amid Manipur unrest, States reach out to stranded citizens

Ghulam Nabi Azad

a prime destination of tourists from around the globe.”

He said tourism has revived over the past two years as peace is beneficial to everyone. “There should be no politics over terrorism,” he underlined.

T he Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) leader also credited the Centre for “ending the culture of strikes and stone-pelting” in the Union territory (UT).

On the growing terror incidents in Rajouri and Poonch district of Jammu

region where 26 security personnel and nine civilians were killed in eight terror attacks since October 2021, he said it is a cause of concern for the entire country, people and the border state.

“Three major incidents took place this year in the Rajouri-Poonch belt, consuming innocent lives. Such incidents should not have happened,” he said, adding that people should join hands with security agencies to root out terrorism from the region.

Azad also reiterated his demand for holding of early assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir and said an elected government is much better than the Lt Governor administration as members of the legislative assembly in 90 constituencies can help address the problems of the people in a better way.

of corruption and I was removed from Parliament. The Prime Minister does not act against those who indulge in corruption,” he alleged.

A local court in Gujarat’s Surat sentenced Gandhi in March to two years in jail after convicting him for criminal defamation in a case regarding the ‘Modi surname’ remark made by the Congress leader back in 2019. A day later, he was disqualified from Parliament. The Gujarat High Court has reserved its verdict on the case after Gandhi moved the court for an appeal.

The former MP said three years ago, the government that came to power in Karnataka was a “stolen one”. “Your government was stolen three years ago. You chose someone and you got someone else as the MLAs were bought. The government that came by theft, will do theft. It does not know anything other than theft,” the Congress leader said.

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (PTI): Amid the raging “Bajrang Dal” row, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Sunday said his party’s Karnataka polls manifesto did not state that the outfit will be banned but promised “decisive action” under law as a warning to all organisations that indulge in hatemongering.

Hitting out at the BJP over its criticism, he also questioned the equating of Bajrang Dal with ‘Bajrangbali’, asking how can this “magical transformation” be explained.

In an interview with PTI ahead of the May 10 Karnataka assembly polls, Chidamabram expressed confidence that the people of the state will choose wisely, asserting that the choice is stark as Karnataka could either become a model of a liberal, democratic, plural, tolerant and progressive state or an inward-looking, majoritarian, intolerant and regressive state.

“For the sake of democracy and the future of Karnataka, we must stop the BJP from winning in Karna-

P Chidambaram

taka and using the victory to launch forays into the neighbouring states,” he said.

Asked about the BJP promising implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the introduction of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state, the former home minister said both are issues that have the potential to divide society and trigger social conflict.

“We have the experience of what happened in some northern and northeastern states. I think the people of Karnataka have absorbed the lessons and will reject these election proposals or promises of the BJP,” Chidambaram told PTI.

Asked about the BJP making the talk of possible

action against organisations such as the Bajrang Dal in the Congress manifesto a poll issue and whether it would impact the elections, Chidambaram said the Congress’ manifesto did not say that “we will ban the Bajrang Dal”.

“Please read the two sentences again. There is a reference to two organisations that use extreme language and indulge in extreme actions. The Congress warned all organisations that indulge in hate-mongering,” Chidambaram said.

“The Congress promised ‘decisive action’ under law. Besides, under the law, banning an organisation is a judicial process. I have wondered how Bajrang Dal became Bajrangbali! Can you please explain the magical transformation?” the former home minister said.

The Congress, in its election manifesto for the Karnataka polls, said it is committed to take firm and decisive action against individuals and organisations spreading hatred amongst communities on grounds of caste or religion.

AAP bashes Court order in Delhi excise policy

NEW DELHI, MAY 7

(AGENCIES): The AAP on Sunday demanded that the BJP tender an apology to it for levelling “false” allegations against the party in connection with the excise policy case following a court granting bail to two accused in the matter.

Addressing a press conference, AAP senior leader and Cabinet minister Atishi said the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has levelled two allegations that Rs 100 crore kickbacks were received from liquor businessesmen and the money was used in Goa elections.

“Yesterday, the Rouse Avenue court granted bail to Rajesh Joshi and Gautam Malhotra. The court order said no evidence had been kept forth by the ED showing any cash payment for bribe or kickbacks. The order said the ED attached some vague statements by witnesses,” she added.

BJP attacks AAP

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal asserted that the entire case is “bogus” and only meant to malign his party.

“Now even Court has said that there is no material evidence of any kickback or money laundering. We have been saying right from beginning that entire liquor scam is bogus and meant only to malign AAP,” he said in a tweet.

The ED has claimed that Joshi, a vendor, ensured that Rs 30 crore reached Goa for elections, but the order noted there was “no independent evidence to corroborate this fact”.

Soon after the Aam Aadmi Party’s “big revelation” from a court order on the alleged liquor policy scam in Delhi, claiming there was no scam, the Bharatiya Janata Party taunted the ruling party with what a judge had earlier said about the former Delhi minister Manish Sisodia while denying him bail in the case. “If you are so fond of reading the court’s refer-

ences, and have the habit of giving yourself certificates of honesty, then read what the court said about @msisodia and tell it to the public,” BJP Delhi Spokesperson Harish Khurana tweeted in Hindi, along with a video of him reading Delhi’s Rouse Avenue court’s observation about Sisodia, who is a prime accused in the corruption case registered by the CBI in relation to the nowscrapped Delhi excise policy.

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NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (AGENCIES): Amid the ongoing unrest in Manipur, several states have arranged special flights and established helplines to evacuate those stranded in the violence-hit state. Maharashtra

CM Eknath Shinde today announced that his government is keeping a close watch on the latest developments in Manipur and will do everything in its capacity to bring back students who are stuck in the northeastern state, reports NDTV news.

“There are 22 students (in Manipur) from Maharashtra. I have spoken to two of them - Vikash Sharma and Tushar Awhad - and assured them of arranging a special flight to return home. I told them not to be afraid of anything, the state is making all the necessary arrangements to bring them back safely,” Shinde said in a statement. The Andhra Pradesh government yesterday opened a helpline and a control room in the national capital to help bring back students from the state who are studying in Manipur.

“We are in constant touch with Manipur government and local administration to ensure all help,” the Andhra Pradesh government said in a statement.

Meanwhile, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee yesterday said that efforts were underway to reach out to Bengal students in Manipur and provided helpline numbers for those seeking assistance. “Deeply anguished by the kind of messages and SOS we are receiving from Manipur. I am concerned about the safety of the people of Manipur and others hailing from different parts of the country, now stranded there,” Banerjee tweeted. “Government of Bengal is committed to stand by the people and has decided to make every effort to evacuate people stranded there in coordination with the government of Manipur. The chief secretary has been directed to monitor the entire process, to help people in distress and despair. We are with the people at all times. Urge everyone to maintain peace,” she added.

Rahul Gandhi

Atishi Marlena

People being rescued by Army from a violence-hit area of Manipur, Saturday. (PTI)

Sitharaman to review state of economy

(From p-1)

Finance minister

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (PTI):

Nirmala Sitharaman will review the state of the economy amid global and domestic challenges at a meeting of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) on Monday.

The 27th meeting of the high-level panel to be held here will be attended by all financial sector regulators, including RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, sources said.

This would be the first meeting of the FSDC after the passage of Rs 45 lakh crore Budget for 2023-24 with greater emphasis on capital expenditure with an outlay of Rs 10,00,961 crore.

The FSDC is the apex body of sectoral regulators, headed by the Union finance minister.

The meeting will review the current global and

(From p-1)

domestic economic situation and financial stability issues, including those concerning banking and NBFCs in view of failure of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank and liquidity pressure faced by Credit Suisse, according to the sources.

The council would review the progress of measures approved earlier for further development of the financial sector and to achieve inclusive economic growth with macroeco -

In a solidarity message, to Manipur Baptist Convention president Rev. SR Onesima Anal and regional secretary Rev. K. Losii Mao, the LBCA president Rev. Dr. E. NrioEzung, general secretary EchungbemoShitiri, vice president Sukumbemo Murry, executive secretary Rev. Khonbemo P. Kikon and jt secretary P. RenbenOvung conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved families of those who have sacrificed their lives and also prayed that Almighty God rest their souls in eternal solace.

LBCA said the most disheartening news was the continued arson and violence that had taken its toll on the Christian community of Manipur, the Churches and its institutions. Quoting the Bible-“the Church is the body of Christ”, LBCA said that although the Church exists on earth, it was nevertheless, a heavenly treasure that belonged to the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. However, the duty as Christians was to pray to our Father to forgive them “for they do not know what they do”. Conveying its solidarity and prayer support, LBCA said that the association also fervently pray that the loving God will heal the land and the people of Manipur. “Do not be dismayed, for our living God is with you always. In every situation, He will send His Holy Spirit to guide and

nomic stability, they said.

RBI in its latest bimonthly policy marginally revised upward the economic growth projection for the current fiscal to 6.5 per cent, from its earlier estimate of 6.4 per cent.

Unveiling the first bimonthly monetary policy of 2023-24 fiscal in April, RBI Governor had said the GDP growth in the first quarter of 2023-24 is expected at 7.8 per cent.

The growth for second, third and fourth quarter of the current fiscal has been projected at 6.2 per cent, 6.1 per cent and 5.9 per cent, respectively.

The last meeting of the high level panel had taken place in Septmber, 2022.

The Council during the last meeting deliberated on the early warning indicators for the economy and preparedness to deal with them, improving the

efficiency of the existing Financial/Credit Information Systems and issues of governance and management in Systemically Important Financial Institutions including Financial Market Infrastructures, and strengthening cyber security framework in financial sector.

Besides, common KYC for all financial services and related matters, update on account aggregator and next steps, issues relating to financing of power sector, strategic role of GIFT IFSC in New Aatmanirbhar Bharat, inter-regulatory issues of GIFT-IFSC, and need for utilisation of the services of registered valuers by all government departments were also discussed.

The FSDC meeting will also review activities undertaken by the FSDC sub-committee chaired by the RBI governor and the

appeal for peace in Manipur

protect you,” LBCA said. The association also prayed that MBC and all the associations under it will take refuge and strength in the word of God, and steadfastly seek His guidance to lead us through.

FNR: Taking note of the recent incident in Manipur, Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) said its imagination defied reality of tears, pain and suffering and prayed and empathise with fellow brothers and sisters. In a statement, FNR said conflict are tragic and undesired and was moved and persuaded by a sense of urgency and solidarity over the situation in Manipur. FNR appealed to all those affected to rise to the occasion and instead act with love. Further FNR also called upon all leaders of communities to overcome communal pride and hatred in order to allow peace for dialogue and restoration of broken relationships. It said the way towards human healing is to preserve hope between rage and hate and between “us”and “they”. FNR said this was its hope for the ‘torn people’ in the coming together of communities to give peace a chance and practising empathy among all. FNR also quoted Romans 13:12 (The nights is past, the day is coming near, let us finally do what we should) to be transformed and

thank our Creator. FNR also offered solidarity, good will and prayers to all in Manipur state.

RNPO: Rongmei Naga People’s Organisation (RNPO) has also expressed concerned by the recent wave of violence, arson, killings, and destruction of public properties in parts of Manipur. RNPO president Chingkhiulung Gonmei said they were pained to learn of the tragic events that have caused so much harm and destruction to innocent people, adding that it was a matter of serious concern.It said that such acts of violence and arson were not only illegal, but also morally reprehensible that was against the principles of tolerance, harmony, and peaceful coexistence. RNPO, therefore, called upon the authorities to take immediate action to ensure safety and security of all citizens, particularly the affected communities who have been targeted in these violent attacks. The organization also appealed to all stakeholders to work together to address the root cause of the issue and promote understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. It is only through dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect that can build a society that is truly inclusive and just, it said. Meanwhile, RNPO conveyed heartfelt condolences to bereaved families who have lost their dear ones.

action taken by members on the past decisions of FSDC.

Besides RBI governor, Securities and Exchange Board of India chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) chairman Debasish Panda, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) chairman Ravi Mital and Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority’s newly appointed chairman Deepak Mohanty will attend the meeting.

The sources said the FSDC meeting will also be attended by Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad, Finance Secretary T V Somanathan, Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth, Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra, Financial Services Secretary Vivek Joshi and other top officials of the finance ministry.

Financial bids for selling 26% in PSU BEML soon

NEW DELHI, MAY 7

(PTI): The government may soon invite financial bids for strategic sale of defence PSU BEML after its non-core business got listed on the bourses last month.

In January 2021, the government invited preliminary bids for selling 26 per cent stake in BEML along with the management control. It received multiple expressions of interest (EoIs) for the sale.

Following that, in October last year, BEML demerged its non-core businesses into BEML Land Assets and listed the new company on the bourses on April 19, 2023.

The listing of land and other non-core assets is complete. Now we will soon invite financial bids for the core assets, which is construction and defence related, an official told PTI.

“No one can force the state to send such a recommendation in the absence of the state concluding that the Meeteis/Meiteis are a tribe and they deserve to be in the scheduled tribes list”, it said.

One more appeal has been filed by the chairman of the Hill Area Committee challenging the order dated May 3 of the High Court in which notices were issued to them in a contempt petition filed by members of Meitei community.

MTF PIL: Meanwhile, the PIL filed by an NGO ‘Manipur Tribal Forum’, through advocate Satya Mitra, said it has moved the top court under Article 32 of the Constitution on account of the extreme situation arising out of the attacks on the

(From p-1)

tribal community in Manipur by a “dominant group”. It alleged that “these attacks have the full support of the party in power ... which supports the dominant group” and sought directions to the Centre and Manipur to evacuate Manipuri tribals who have fled their villages.

The PIL by the tribal outfit alleged that the attacks began on May 3 and several churches and hospitals were also damaged when the mobs went on a rampage, burning houses and vehicles and business establishments belonging to tribals.

It claimed that 30 tribals were killed and 132 people were injured but “neither FIR was registered nor is there any investigation taking place”. The PIL sought directions to the Centre and

He thanked the Assam Rifles (AR) for extending help by providing a third of their ration for the tribals in the camp. He also said the AR had escorted some of them to the airport from where they fellow to Tezu airport, Arunachal. From there, the evacuees took a train from Tinsukia and arrived Dimapur on Saturday.

Citing distorted reports that went viral on social media, as well as some media houses, he reiterated that the violence was not between Hindus and Christians or tribals against Meities or the Manipuris. He

the state government to deploy central forces to protect all churches and places of worship of the tribal/Christians in Manipur with immediate effect. It urged that a team of professionals be put together to conduct an inquiry into the villages destroyed and make an assessment of the damage. It also sought payment of compensation to the victims and reconstruction of buildings including churches. “A prayer clause has been made for the appointment of former DGP Assam (Harekrishna Deka) as the head of an SIT to investigate and prosecute and with a mandate to put together a team of his choice of police personnel and other support secretarial staff so that final reports are made expeditiously,” it said.

said violence broke out because the Biren Singh government chose to ignore the imminent inflammable situation even as late as on May 1. He said by its inaction, complicity and biasness the Biren Singh government in Manipur was responsible for whatever happened in Manipur. The student urged upon the central government to directly intervene through President’s Rule so as to deploy security personnel to sensitive area and provide protection to people in mob-hit areas. He said additional security forces was needed to evacuate thousands of helpless people still isolated in highly sensitive areas.

676 stranded Nagas arrive from Manipur

(From p-1)

He said with most of the connectivity and internet services down in Manipur, getting reliable input became a huge problem and therefore the State government had to make very calculated moves for the safety of the people. Rupin said that when all option had run out, the Assam Rifles readily came forward to help in the rescue mission by escorting the people to safety.

IGAR (N) Vikas Lakhera, in his brief remark, said the force was tasked with the responsibility to safely bring back the stranded people. Even if it was delayed, their safe return was successful and that was the goal, he added. He also disclosed that the rescue team would be returning to bring back the rest of the people.

Angami Public Organisation vice president, Neivor Rutsa thanked the Assam Rifles for safely bringing back the people from the violence-hit Manipur.

He pointed out that since it was a security matter of another state and that the State police force had limitations to operate, the paramilitary forces came forward to assist the people. He said in such a situation government alone was not responsible alone, but a collective responsibility of everyone to ensure the safety of one another.

During the event, Angami youth and students bodies acknowledged the service rendered by Brig. Ved Beniwal, SDO (C) Jakhama Weku Zhieme, SDPO (North) Kohima Sheta Lohe and NST bus drivers who were part of the rescue team.

The reception was chaired by commandant 1st Assam Rifles, Col. Umesh Sati while APO official, Kevinourheno Seyie invoked God’s blessings.

Later in the evening, around six buses ferried residents of Dimapur while the rest went by taxis. Earlier, the Mao Union Senapati along with women and youth organizations provided refreshment to all the returnees including security personnel at Senapati.

Paytm focused on reaching financial milestone

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (REUTERS): Indian digital payments firm Paytm aims to become “free cashflow positive in the near future,” chief executive Vijay Shekhar Sharma said in a letter to shareholders on Sunday.

“This has been possible by disciplined resource allocation and focusing on what has become our core revenue and growth driver – payments and financial services distribution business,” he said.

Positive free cash flow is when a company has suf-

ficient funds to invest back into the business for growth.

Paytm reported a 51.5% rise in fourth-quarter revenue on Friday, aided by a surge in loan growth, and posted an operating profit for a second consecutive quarter. Paytm’s parent, One 97 Communications Ltd (PAYT.NS), said revenue rose to 23.35 billion rupees

Land For SaLe

($285.80 million) in the three-months ending March 31, from 15.41 billion rupees a year earlier.

Nirmala Sitharaman

NJCF, LBCA, FNR & RNPO

SNIPPETS

Smuggler held in Afghan with 100 kg drugs

TALUAN (AFGHANISTAN), MAY 7 (IANS):

A drug smuggler has been arrested in Afghanistan’s northern Takhar province with 100 kg of illicit drugs discovered in his possession, an official with Border Security Force said on Sunday. The drugs included 50 kg of opium poppy, according to official Mohammad Akram, adding that the alleged smuggler was attempting to take the contraband out of the province but police identified and arrested him in Cha Ab district on Saturday.

More than 200 dead after Congo floods

CONGO, MAY 7 (AGENCIES): The death toll from flash floods and landslides in the Democratic Republic of Congo has risen to over 203 with several people missing, as per a report in CBS News citing an administrative official. Thomas Bakenga, the administrator of Kalehe territory, said, “Here in Bushushu, 203 bodies have already been removed fro m the rubble.”, reports Ndtv news. On Thursday, the rainfall in Kalehe territory in South Kivu province caused rivers to overflow, inundating the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi.

2 killed, 7 injured in van crash in Pak

ISLAMABAD, MAY 7 (IANS): At least two people were killed and seven others injured on Sunday after a passenger van fell into a ditch in Swat district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the rescue service reported. The accident took place early Sunday morning in Kabal area of the district when the driver lost control of the vehicle due to brake failure, resulting in the casualties of the passengers, Xinhua news agency reported.

2 arrested with 10 kg drugs in Cambodia

PHNOM PENH, MAY

7 (IANS): Cambodia’s anti-drug police have cracked down on a crossborder drug trafficking case, arresting two local men with nearly 10 kg of illicit drugs, the National Police said on Sunday. The duo, aged 17 and 20-years-old, were apprehended on Thursday afternoon during a raid in northwest Banteay Meanchey province’s Poipet city, which shares border with Thailand.

Girl killed, 5 wounded in California shooting

SAN FRANCISCO, MAY 7 (IANS): A 17-year-old girl was killed and five others were wounded in a shooting in Chico, the US’ California state, police said. The girl was taken to a hospital and died there. Five others were wounded with non-life-threatening injuries, the police was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency. They were shot at a party just off the campus of California State University Chico. Officers responded to the shooting at around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday and arrested one suspect on the spot.

12 killed in multivehicle crash

in Turkey

ISTANBUL, MAY 7 (AP): A multi-vehicle crash in southern Turkey’s Hatay province killed at least 12 people and injured 31 others, including three seriously, officials said. A truck crossed into opposite lanes after the driver lost control late Saturday, colliding with nine cars and two minibuses, the staterun Anadolu news agency reported.

Japan-S. Korea call for stronger ties

SEOUL, MAY 7 (AP): Japan’s prime minister expressed sympathy for the suffering of Korean forced labourers during Japan’s colonial rule, as he and his South Korean counterpart on Sunday renewed resolve to overcome historical grievances and strengthen cooperation in the face of shared challenges such as North Korea’s nuclear programme.

Comments by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his second summit in less than two months with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol are closely watched in Seoul. Yoon has faced domestic criticism that he had preemptively made concessions to Tokyo without getting corresponding steps in return. Kishida’s statement, which avoided a new, direct apology over the colonization but still sympathised with the Korean victims, suggests he felt pressure to say something to maintain momentum for improved ties.

“And personally, I have strong pain in my heart as I think of the extreme difficulty and sorrow that many people had to suffer under the severe environment in those days,” Kishi-

S Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida attend a joint press conference, in Seoul Sunday. (AP) da told a joint news conference with Yoon, referring to Japan’s 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.

“Japan and South Korea share various history and development, and I believe it is my responsibility as prime minister of Japan to cooperate with President Yoon and the South Korean side as we follow through the effort of our predecessors wh o have also overcome the difficult times,” he said.

Kishida arrived in South Korea earlier Sunday for a two-day visit, which reciprocates a mid-March trip to Tokyo by Yoon and marks the first exchange of visits between the leaders of the Asian neighbors in 12

years. The back-to-back summits were largely meant to resolve the countries’ bitter disputes caused by the 2018 court rulings in South Korea that ordered two Japanese companies to financially compensate some of their aging former Korean employees for colonial-era forced labour.

Japan has refused to abide by the verdicts, arguing that all compensation issues were already settled when the two countries normalized ties in 1965.

The wrangling led to the countries downgrading each other’s trade status and Seoul’s previous liberal government threatening to spike a military intelligencesharing pact. The strained

Pak, China and Afghanistan agree to combat terrorism

ISLAMABAD, MAY 7 (PTI): Pakistan, China and Afghanistan have agreed to combat terrorism and enhance cooperation in different economic fields, the foreign office here said on Sunday.

The foreign ministers of the three countries participated in the 5th ChinaPakistan-Afghanistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue held in Islamabad on Saturday, it said in a statement.

“The three sides agreed to advance political engagement, counterterrorism cooperation and enhance trade, investments and connectivity under the trilateral framework,” it said. No further details about the three-way interaction were provided for which Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was specially allowed by the UN to travel to Pakistan.

Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang flew from Goa, where he attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting,

Chinese FM Qin Gang, Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Acting Afghan FM A. Khan Muttaqi in Islamabad on May 6, 2023. to Islamabad to participate in the trilateral.

Separately, Muttaqi met Pakistan foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday and held “a candid and in-depth exchange” on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity.

The two foreign ministers reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement.

On peace and security, they emphasised the need for enhanced coordination to counter-terrorism and deepen bilateral cooperation.

Regarding bilateral

Arab govts vote for Syria’s return to the Arab League

CAIRO, MAY 7 (AP): Arab government representatives in Cairo on Sunday voted to return Syria to the Arab League after a 12-year suspension.

The vote in the Egyptian capital came days after regional top diplomats met in Jordan to discuss a roadmap to return Syria to the Arab fold as the conflict continues to de-escalate, and soon before Saudi Arabia hosts the upcoming Arab League Summit on May 19.

The decision for Syria to return also includes a commitment to ongoing dialogue with Arab governments to gradually reach a political solution to the conflict, in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.

The Arab League in the decision also set up a communications committee consisting of Saudi Arabia and Syria’s neighbours Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq to follow up on developments.

There is still no Arab consensus on normalisation with Damascus. Several governments did not

attend the meeting.

Among the most notable absentees was Qatar, which continues to back opposition groups against Syrian President Bashar Assad’s government, and continues to resist normalization with Damascus.

Syria’s membership in the Arab League was suspended 12 years ago early on in the uprising turnedconflict, which has killed nearly a half million people since March 2011 and displaced half of the country’s pre-war population of 23 million.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Samer Shoukry in a public statement before the meeting said only an Arab-led “political solution without foreign dictates” can end the ongoing conflict that restores Syria’s unity and stability and allow refugees and the internally displaced to return.

“The different stages of the Syrian crisis proved that it has no military solution, and that there is no victor nor defeated in this conflict,” he added. few weeks.

South Korea-Japan ties complicated US efforts to build a stronger regional alliance to better cope with rising Chinese influence and North Korean nuclear threats.

In March, however, Yoon’s conservative government took a major step toward mending the ties by announcing it would use local funds to compensate the forced labour victims without demanding contributions from Japanese companies.

Later in March, Yoon travelled to Tokyo to meet with Kishida, and the two agreed to resume leadership-level visits and other talks. Their governments have since taken steps to withdraw their economic retaliatory steps against each other.

Yoon’s push, however, drew strong backlash from some of the forced labour victims and his liberal rivals at home, who have demanded direct compensation from the Japanese companies. Yoon has defended his move, saying greater cooperation with Japan is required to jointly tackle North Korea’s advancing nuclear programme, the intensifying US-China strategic rivalry and global supply chain challenges.

‘Big lunch’ follows big coronation celebrating King Charles III

an event in Swindon. The king’s nieces, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, the daughters of Prince Andrew, were to join a lunch in Windsor.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hosted U.S. first lady Jill Biden and her granddaughter Finnegan Biden at the Big Lunch party held in front of his office. Other guests included Ukrainian refugees and community activists.

LONDON, MAY 7 (AP):

After the gilded spectacle of King Charles III’s crowning in an ancient religious ceremony, coronation festivities took a more down-to-earth turn Sunday with thousands of picnics and street parties held across the U.K. in his honor.

The community gettogethers, part of a British tradition known as the Big Lunch, were intended to bring neighbors together to celebrate the newly crowned king even as support for the monarchy wanes. Critics complained about the coronation’s cost at a time of exorbitant living expenses amid double-digit inflation. Thousands of luncheons were organized as

part of the celebrations Sunday, along with a nighttime concert at Windsor Castle featuring Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and 1990′s boy band Take That. Charles encouraged residents to engage in volunteer activities Monday, which was a holiday.

The king and Queen Camilla were not expected at any of the luncheons but planned to attend the concert that will include a speech by his son, Prince William, heir to the throne.

The king’s siblings, Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Anne, the Princess Royal, and their spouses took on lunch duty for the royal family. Edward was in Cranleigh and his sister hit

As in other neighborhoods with street parties, Downing Street was decked out in Union Jack bunting for the occasion.

The lower-key events followed regalia-laden pageantry that saw the king and queen crowned together in Westminster Abbey. They were presented with centuries-old swords, scepters and a jewel-encrusted golden orb symbolizing the monarch’s power in a medieval tradition celebrated with liturgy, song and hearty cheers of “God save the king.”

The couple then paraded through the streets in a gilded horse-drawn carriage led by the largest ceremonial military procession since the coronation of Charles’ mother, Queen Elizabeth II, 70 years ago.

Nuclear watchdog’s worries for Ukraine plant safety

KYIV, MAY 7 (AP): The head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog is expressing growing anxiety about the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, after the governor of the Russia-occupied area ordered the evacuation of a town where most plant staff live amid ongoing attacks in the area.

for more than nine months.

Russian Defence Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said on Sunday that Moscow’s forces had captured two more districts in the city’s west and northwest, but provided no further details.

and transit trade, the two sides stressed the importance of removing impediments to trade in order to advance the goal of enhanced regional economic integration and connectivity, the statement said.

Muttaqi also met Pakistan army chief General Syed Asim Munir and the two discussed issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalisation of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment, according to a statement issued by the army’s media wing.

The plant is near the front lines of fighting in the war, and Ukrainian authorities on Sunday said that a 72-year-old woman was killed and three others were wounded when Russian forces fired more than 30 shells at Nikopol, a Ukrainian-held town neighbouring the plant.

Ukraine has also been regularly attacking the Russian side of the lines.

“The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous,” International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi said in a warning that came Saturday before the latest report of attacks.

“I’m extremely concerned about the very real

A guard in Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station in territory under Russian military control, southeastern Ukraine. (AP) nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant.”

Grossi’s comments were prompted by an announcement Friday by Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russia-installed governor of the partially-occupied Zaporizhzhia province, that he had ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements in the area, including Enerhodar, which is located next to the power plant, which is Europe’s largest. The settlements affected are about 50 to 70 kilometres (30 to 40 miles) from the front line of fighting between Ukraine and Russia, and Balitsky said that Ukraine had intensified at-

9 killed in Texas mall shooting

ALLEN, MAY 7 (AP): A gunman stepped out of a silver sedan and started shooting people at a Dallasarea outlet mall Saturday, killing eight and wounding seven others — three critically — before being killed by a police officer who happened to be nearby, authorities said.

Authorities did not immediately provide details about the victims at Allen Premium Outlets, a sprawling outdoor shopping center, but witnesses reported seeing children among them. Some said they also saw what appeared to be a police officer and a mall security guard unconscious on the ground.

The shooting, the latest eruption of what has been an unprecedented pace of mass killings in the U.S., sent hundreds fleeing in panic. Barely a week before, authorities say, a man fatally shot five people in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked him to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept.

A 16-year-old pretzel stand employee, Maxwell Gum, described a virtual stampede of shoppers. He and others sheltered in a

tacks on the area in the past several days.

Analysts have for months pointed to the southern Zaporizhzhia region as one of the possible targets of Ukraine’s expected spring counteroffensive, speculating that Kyiv’s forces might try to choke off Russia’s “land corridor” to the Crimean Peninsula and split Russian forces in two by pressing on to the Azov Sea coast. Some of the fiercest ongoing fighting is in the eastern city of Bakhmut, where Ukrainian forces are still clinging to a position on the western outskirts despite Russia trying to take the city

Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces on Saturday accused Russia of using phosphorous in the city and on Sunday released a new video showing the telltale white fire from such munitions. International law prohibits the use of white phosphorus or other incendiary weapons — munitions designed to set fire to objects or cause burn injuries — in areas where there could be concentrations of civilians, though it can also be used for illumination or to create smoke screens.

It wasn’t possible to independently verify where the video was shot or when, but chemical weapons expert Hamish de BrettonGordon, a former British army colonel, said it was clearly white phosphorous.

“This is being fired directly at Ukraine positions and this would be a war crime,” he said.

Warren Buffett compares AI to the creation of atom bomb

People raise their hands as they leave a shopping center after a shooting, Saturday, May 6, 2023, in Allen, Texas. (AP) storage room.

“We started running.

Kids were getting trampled,” Gum said. “My coworker picked up a 4-yearold girl and gave her to her parents.”

Dashcam video that circulated online showed the gunman getting out of a car and shooting at people on the sidewalk. More than three dozen shots could be heard as the vehicle recording the video drove off.

Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said seven people including the shooter died at the scene. Nine victims were taken to area hospitals, but two of them died.

Three of the wounded were in critical condition in

the evening, Boyd said, and four were stable.

An Allen Police officer was in the area on an unrelated call when he heard shots at 3:36 p.m., the police department wrote on Facebook.

“The officer engaged the suspect and neutralized the threat. He then called for emergency personnel,” it added.

Mass killings are happening with staggering frequency in the United States this year: an average of about one a week, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

WASHINGTON, MAY 7 (AGENCIES): Generative artificial intelligence has become a buzzword this year, with apps such as ChatGPT capturing the public’s fancy. While AI chatbots are being employed for a variety of tasks, there are also fears of them being misused. There are also strong concerns that AI will take away millions of jobs and many tech entrepreneurs, including Elon Musk, have raised voices against its spread.

Now, billionaire investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett also shared his thoughts on the rapidly evolving technology, reports Ndtv news.

During a discussion at the company’s annual meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, Mr Buffett compared the creation of the powerful technology to the atomic bomb, New York Post reported.

A while back, the billionaire had a chance to try out ChatGPT when his friend Bill Gates showed it to him. While he was impressed by its vast capabilities, he said he is a bit ap-

prehensive about the technology.

‘’When something can do all kinds of things, I get a little bit worried. Because I know we won’t be able to un-invent it and, you know, we did invent, for very, very good reason, the atom bomb in World War II’’, the 92-year-old investor said at the meeting which was also attended by Charlie Munger, vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. “It was enormously important that we did so. But is it good for the next two hundred years of the world that the ability to do so has been unleashed?” he continued. He further said he believes AI will change “everything in the world, except how men think and behave.”

Warren Buffett

PM Rishi Sunak hands over a slice of cake to a guest as he attends the Big Lunch party at Downing Street in London Sunday. (AP/PTI)

Talent round of ‘Face of Nagaland’ season 5 held

a difficult task of selecting the most talented contestants. The audience were mesmerized by the exceptional performances and the judges were impressed with the high level of talent displayed by the contestants.

The event was hosted by managing director and operations head of Nova Stellam, Mughato Swu.

The judges expressed that it gave them immense pleasure to witness such exceptional talent in the contestants.

Priyanka Chopra describes filming ‘Love Again’ as terrifying experience

Actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas was forced to cope with a “daunting atmosphere” on ‘Love Again’.

The 40-year-old actress stars in the new romantic comedy film alongside Sam Heughan and Celine Dion but admits it was tricky to generate the emotions required as the picture was filmed in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Participants, judges and organisers after the Talent round.

The talent round of the Face of Nagaland – season -5 competition was successfully held on May 7 at ROYALOAK, Dimapur. The event wit -

nessed top-14 contestants showcasing their talent in various domains.

Nova Stellam has informed in a press release that the grand finale will

be held in the month of June, 2023.

The judges for the event were Khekashe Achumi, Naina Daria and Naina Jain, who have had

In addition to the outstanding performances, all the contestants and members were presented with beauty coupon vouchers from CrystalBee Salon, Dimapur.

‘The Kerala Story’ not to be screened in Tamil Nadu multiplex theatres

The multiplex theatres in Tamil Nadu have halted the screenings of The Kerala Story from today, citing the law and order situation and poor response of the movie.

The Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) in Tamil Nadu on Saturday staged a protest against the release of ‘The Kerala Story’ in Chennai. The Naam Tamilar Party cadres headed by its organiser, actor and director Seeman started protests in the Chennai Anna Nagar Arch near Skywalk Mall in Chennai against the movie.

Following Seeman’s call for protest, cadres of NTK held a protest inside the theatre against the screening of The Kerala Story and were later detained by the police.

Party cadres were holding

the Naam Thamizhar Katchi flag and were raising slogans to ban the movie. Seeman also appealed to the theatre owners not to run the film ‘The Kerala Story’ and urged people not to watch the movie, reported ANI.

Seeman had earlier announced protests claiming that The Kerala Story is against the Muslim community and demanded that the Puducherry and Tamil Nadu governments should ban its screening. (India Today)

“It was nuts at that time. It was tough, but it was a scary time in the world. As actors, we’re the ones that have to take off our masks on set. I was terrified, honestly, in the beginning. It was a very scary, daunting atmosphere, and we were doing a romantic comedy - we

Aamir Khan in Kathmandu for meditation

Famous Bollywood actor Aamir Khan arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday and left for meditation. He has reportedly gone to a meditation spot in the outskirts of Kathmandu, according to an official who received him at the airport. He will spend at least 11 days in Nepal Vipassana Centre in Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu. It is one of the popular meditation centres in Kathmandu located on the outskirts of the city. It offers 10-

day long meditation courses, according to the website. Khan is one of the most popular actors in Bollywood, known for his versatile acting skills and his commitment to quality cinema. His popular movies are Lagaan, 3 Idiots, PK, Dil Chahta Hai, Rang De Basanti, among others. (IANS)

had to bring lightness and fun to set in this daunting atmosphere,” she recalled to Entertainment Weekly, reports aceshowbiz.com.

“We really leaned on each other to create a fun environment on set with each other. We would laugh and crack jokes and tried to find the joy so that we could inspire and infuse

ourselves as well. But it wasn’t easy.”

Priyanka stars in the film as Mira Ray, whostruggling to cope with the death of her fiancesends romantic messages to his old phone number, which has been reassigned to journalist Rob Burns (Heughan). Rob is drawn to Mira’s beautiful texts

and seeks Celine Dion’s assistance to find her in real life when he is tasked with writing a feature about the ‘My Heart Will Go On’ singer.

Sam admits that the pandemic was one of the main reasons he accepted the chance to play the male lead in the film. The ‘Outlander’ star said, “I think we were all ready for it. After the lockdowns and being in isolation, everyone was ready to feel joy again. That’s why this was such a well-timed movie to make. I think we all, certainly after the pandemic and everything else that’s going on in the world, needed this kind of movie and this kind of message.”

(IANS)

Miley Cyrus’ ‘Flowers’ has become the fastest song to reach a billion streams on Spotify.

‘Flowers’ was released January 12 as the lead single to Cyrus’ ‘Endless Summer Vacation’ and went on to become the longest-running UK Number One single for a female artist since Adele’s ‘Easy On Me’ in 2021.

It was also the moststreamed song on Spotify, for two consecutive weeks and spent eight nonconsecutive weeks at Number One on the Billboard Hot 100 .

On May 4, ‘Flowers’ broke a billion listens on the streamer. “Some Flowers never fade,” wrote Spotify before confirming that the track had become “the fastest song to reach one billion streams in Spotify history.”

“Thanks a billion, I love you,” wrote Cyrus.

‘Flowers’ is the second song by Miley Cyrus to join the “billions club” after her 2009 single ‘Party In The U.S.A.’

The record was previously shared by Harry Styles for ‘As It Was’ and Justin Bieber’s collab with The Kid LAROI, ‘Stay’, which both broke the milestone after 118 days.

In a four-star review, NME said that Miley Cyrus’ ‘Endless Summer Vacation’ “certainly feels like an accurate reflection of who she is as an artist – and a person – in 2023”. (NME)

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Panel gives May 21 deadline for arrest of Bhushan

Vinesh says protest not hijacked by farmers

NEW DELHI/LUC -

KNOW, MAY 7 (PTI/ IANS): The 31-member committee that is advising the protesting wrestlers on Sunday said if WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh is not arrested by May 21, it will take a “significant decision”, even as Vinesh Phogat insisted that their protest has not been hijacked by farmers.

Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) spokesperson Rakesh Tikait, Khap Maham 24 chief Mehar Singh and Sankyut Kisna Morcha’s (non-political)

Baldev Singh Sirsa joined the wrestlers on the dias and addressed the media.

“Many leaders from Khap panchayat and SKM attended the meeting today. We decided that members from every khap will come to the protest site every day. They will stay here during the day and return by the evening,” Tikait said before a huge gathering.

“The wrestlers’ committee will take care of the protest and we will support the wrestlers from outside. We have scheduled a meeting for May 21. If the government does not offer a resolution, we will devise

our next strategy,” he added.

“If any emergency arises, if the wrestlers face any problem, the entire nation stands behind them.” There has been a heavy deployment of Rapid Action Force (RAF) at the protest site with many khap leaders and farmers joining the aggrieved wrestlers.

The turbaned farmers, clad in dhoti-kurtas, and numbering in hundreds were seen at the protest site on Sunday as a ‘Mahapanchayat’ discussed the next move on behalf of the wrestlers.

The scenes were similar to the farmers’ protest that continued for 13 months un-

Asian Weightlifting: Jeremy fails to rank despite winning silver

til the government repealed the law. The Delhi Police have recorded statements of the seven women complainants under section 161 while the statements under 164 (before a magistrate) under CrPC are yet to be recorded. The wrestlers have accused Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan of sexual exploitation of several women wrestlers over a period of time and have demanded his removal. Tikait said the tri-colour has been shamed and it will not be tolerated.

“We will help the wrestlers in every possible manner,” he said, adding that

it will be a long haul and it may spread to the entire country. “It (Jantar Mantar) will remain the protest site as of now. The protest will gather momentum and spread. We have to be prepared for a long battle,” he added.

“This is not a political protest, this is a nonpolitical organisation. But a few politicians have come in support of the wrestlers, cutting across party lines.”

Sirsa said, “We have also decided that we will force the government to arrest Brij Bhushan. The way farmers had fought their battle (against farm laws), the

wrestlers will continue their struggle in the same way.”

Vinesh Phogat, the world championship medallist, also hinted that the protest may become bigger if their demands are not met.

I will hang myself if allegations proved:

Brij Bhushan

WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh, accused of sexual harassment and intimidation by women wrestlers, has said that he would “hang himself if even a single allegation against him was proved”.

In a video message released on Sunday, Singh said, “I will hang myself even if a single allegation against me is proved. The matter is with the Delhi Police, so I won’t be able to speak much in detail on the matter. I have been saying this from the first day if these wrestlers have any video evidence against me. You should ask anyone who is associated with wrestling. Is Brij Bhushan Ravana?”

Singh said that he was recording the video message on the way to his home in Gonda from Delhi. He further said, “Except these wrestlers (who are protesting), ask anyone if I have done anything wrong. I have given 11 years of my life to wrestling, to this country.”

World Boxing C’ships: Deepak stuns Olympic medallist to storm into pre-QFs

NEW DELHI, MAY 7 (IANS): India’s Deepak Bhoria stunned Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist and 2021 World Champion Saken Bibossinov of Kazakhstan 5-2 (after bout review) in the Round of 32 bout in the 51kg weight category in the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on Sunday.

Compatriot Hussamuddin (57kg) also registered a victory to advance to the quarterfinals.

Deepak came up with a stunning display against the top-seeded Bibossinov, the favourite for a medal in this weight category. It was a tough fight and Deepak matched the Kazakhstan boxer. At the end of three rounds, a countback review was conducted in which the Indian boxer emerged on the top and advanced.

D eepak started the bout slowly and took some time to get into the rhythm but Bibossinov used it to his advantage and landed some punches. The Indian boxer ended the first round strongly and hit his opponent with a flurry of punches but lost by 2-3. After the second round, Deepak was trailing before mounting a great comeback in the final

Man City beat Leeds United 2-1 in Premier League

LONDON, MAY 7

(IANS): Manchester City piled on the pressure at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 win at home to Leeds United on Saturday that leaves them four points clear of Arsenal, who have a difficult visit to third place Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon.

JINJU (SOUTH KOREA), MAY 7 (IANS): India’s Jeremy Lalrinnunga failed to log a valid clean & jerk attempt in the mens 67 kg category at the Asian Weightlifting Championships 2023 here on Sunday but managed to bag a silver medal in the snatch section of the competition.

Commonwealth

Games 2022 champion Jeremy failed with his first snatch attempt of 135kg but hoisted the weight successfully in his second try. He then lifted a personal best equalling 141kg with his third attempt. Only China’s He Yueji had a better snatch attempt (147kg) than the Indian weightlifter.

In the clean & jerk, Jeremy, a Youth Olympics champion from 2018, failed with his first two attempts at 165kg. For his final attempt, the Indian took a crack at 168kg - 1kg over his current personal best - but faltered.

Failing to log a valid attempt in the clean & jerk meant Jeremy had to finish the Asian meet without a total mark, thereby failing to rank in the total section, an olympics.com report said.

This was Lalrinnunga’s first competitive meet after recovering from back and thigh injuries during his gold medal-winning performance at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham last August.

Kevin de Bruyne started for City after injury, while Erling Haaland was also in the starting line-up, although Pep Guardiola rested Jack Grealish, John Stones, Bernardo Silva, Rodri and Ruben Dias ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final first leg away to Real Madrid.

Leeds had new coach Sam Allardyce in the dugout, but the veteran could only watch as City dominated the first half, with Ilkay Gundogan scoring two drilled shots from the edge of the Leeds area after two assists from Riyad Mahrez, a Xinhua report said.

Haaland hit the woodwork twice in the second half and Gundogan missed a penalty that would have made it 3-0 in the 84th minute and a minute later Rodrigo scored from one

Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in action with Leeds United players.

of his side’s only chances in the game to provide a nervous end at the Etihad Stadium. Mohamed Salah’s 13th-minute goal after a move involving Fabinho and Virgil van Dijk saw Liverpool to a 1-0 win at home to Brentford, which leaves them fifth in the table and favorites for a place in next season’s Europa League. Salah’s 30th goal in all

RealMadridbeatOsasunatowinCopadelReytitle

winger was given too much space.

The winger set up Karim Benzema after 24 minutes, but Herrera got down to his right to make a good save before Courtois then denied Eze Abde from a narrow-angle as the game was played at a breakneck pace.

David Alaba then rattled the Osasuna post with a free kick, before Vinicius’ protests finally earned him a yellow card.

The second half began with Benzema and Vinicius both shooting well over the bar before Osasuna leveled the game.

competitions this season saw his side to their sixth consecutive league win.

Aston Villa’s hopes of qualifying for Europe next year look to have disappeared after a 1-0 defeat in a Midlands derby away to Wolverhampton.

Toti Gomes scored the only goal of the game following a ninth-minute corner and although Villa dominated thereafter

Faith

Wolves clung on for a point that means they are safe from relegation.

Harry Kane kept Tottenham’s slim hopes of playing in Europe alive with a goal on the stroke of halftime in a 1-0 win at home to Crystal Palace. Finally, two late goals gave Frank Lampard his first win in seven games in charge as Chelsea won 3-1 away to Bournemouth.

round. He picked up the pace and moved around swiftly throughout the bout while hitting his opponent with some hard blows.

Deepak evaded the Kazakh boxer’s punches consistently and impressed the judges to win by 5-2 after the decision went to bout review.

Deepak will face Zhang Jiamao of China in his next bout and will look to register another big win in the tournament.

On the other hand, Hussamuddin faced Russia’s Savvin Eduard in the pre-quarters. The Indian pugilist dominated the bout from the start and never gave any chance of a comeback to his opponent. Hussamuddin was quicker than

his Russian opponent in the second round as well. In the third round, he kept on counter-punching smartly to register a 5-0 win. He will go up against second seed Umid Rustamov (Azerbaijan) in the quarterfinals of the tournament.

Boxers Sumit (75kg) and Narender (92+kg) will be in action later on Sunday night. Sumit will start his campaign in the round of 32 bout against Russia’s Pavel Sosulin while Narender will square off against Arzola Lopez of Cuba in the last-16 stage. The ongoing tournament is witnessing the participation of 538 boxers, including several Olympic medallists, from 107 countries.

Praveen sets ntl record in triple jump, qualifies for Worlds

HAVANA, MAY 7

(IANS): Indian triple jumper Praveen Chithravel set a new national record with an effort of 17.37 metres on his way to winning a gold medal in the Prueba de confrontacion 2023 athletics meet in Havana, Cuba.

Chithravel improved on the previous men’s triple jump national record of 17.30m set by Renjith Maheswary at the third Indian Grand Prix in Bangalore in 2016. Chithravel, who missed out on a podium finish at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham, achieved his record-breaking mark on Saturday night with his fifth jump at the Prueba de confrontacion 2023 with a headwind reading of -1.5m/s. As the permissible wind assistance for official records is +2.0m/s.

In this meet in Cuba, TOPS athlete Chithravel made four jumps over 17m during the event and also qualified for the World Championships in Budapest, from August 19 to 27. T’e men’s triple jump

qualifying standard for Budapest 2023 is set at 17.20m.

Recently, Chithravel had a one-month training camp in Cuba which was followed by training and competitions in Greece and Europe.

The 21-year-old from Tamil Nadu has already qualified for the Asian Games 2023 with a 17.17m leap at the second Indian Open Jumps Competition in Bellary. Before Saturday, Praveen Chithravel’s personal best in the triple jump was 17.18m, recorded in Chennai last year.

in Action Taekwondo holds belt promotion test

DIMAPUR, MAY 7

(NPN): Faith in Action Taekwondo Academy conducted its 1st phase of colour belt Taekwondo promotion test on May 6, at its headquarter Immanuel Hall, Y. Zhimo Colony, Dimapur. Altogether, 92 Taekwondo players of Westside School, Christian Hr. Sec. School have appeared their promotion test. Tinoto Swu, Anshuman Adhikari, Roshaun Aziuth Mepfhuo of Immnauel Hall and Atobo Awomi, Seyiekhrietuo Keditsu and Caleb Shahkai of Westside School have obtained double promotion

Participants of different category after the 1st phase of colour belt Taekwondo promotion test.

for their excellence in overall Taekwondo techniques during the test.

Taekwondo players of Little Star Hr. Sec. School, Grace Academy, Pranabananda Women’s College, Little Angels

School and Manic Taekwondo Academy will appear their Colour Belt promotion test in the 2nd phase at Grace Academy, GC Paira Colony, Burma Camp, Dimapur on May 13.

On the 3rd phase, se-

nior Taekwondo players and Black Belts will appear their Higher Dan promotion test on May 27 at Faith in Action Taekwondo Headquarter, Immanuel Hall, Y. Zhimo Colony, Dimapur.

MADRID, MAY 7 (IANS): Two goals from Real Madrid striker Rodrygo gave his side a 2-1 win in the final of the Spanish Copa del Rey against a courageous Osasuna on Saturday night.

The result means Real have won the Cup 20 times in history, while Osasuna’s second final appearance ended with the same result

as the previous one, which they lost 2-1 to Betis in 2005.

Rodrigo opened the scoring for Real Madrid in the opening minute. Vinicius Jr was given too much space to turn past Jon Moncayola and Ruben Pena before pulling the ball back for his teammate to score with a shot that deflected over keeper Sergio Herrera.

Osasuna reacted well with Aridane and Ante Budimir heading at Thibaut Courtois before Aimar Oroz fired just wide, a Xinhua report said.

Vinicius was Real Madrid’s main threat and Moncayola was given a yellow card for pulling the Brazilian back, but the right-back was getting little support as the Madrid

The side from Pamplona had threatened with crosses from the right before the ball fell to Lucas Torro at the edge of the Madrid area and the midfielder didn’t think twice before slamming a 20-meter shot into the corner of the Madrid net in the 57th minute.

Vinicius again found space down the Madrid left and David Garcia could only clear his cross to Toni Kroos. The German’s shot was deflected and fell kindly for Rodrygo to hit home.

Dimapur Young Xl lift DDCA U-16 cricket cup

DIMAPUR, MAY 7 (NPN): Dimapur Young Xl emerged as the champion of the Dimapur District Cricket Association’s U-16 trophy by defeating Zakiesato Memorial Hr. Sec. School on May 7 at DDSC ground, Dimapur.

Elected to bat first, Dimapur Young Xl scored 210 runs fors in 25 overs. In reply, Zakiesato were

bundle out for 70 runs in 11 overs.

The player of the tournament was bagged by Dipu Gupta (Dimapur Young Xl); Best batsmanRaja (Dimapur Young Xl); Best bowler - Sajid Lashkar (Zakiesato Memorial Hr. Sec. School); Best wicket keeper - Akash (Dimapur Young Xl) and best discipline team - St. Mary’s

was

Farmer leaders Rakesh Tikait, Mehar Singh and Baldev Singh Sirsa along with wrestlers Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat speak with the media at Jantar Mantar. (PTI)

Real Madrid team players and head coach Carlo Ancelotti celebrate with the trophy after Madrid defeated Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final at La Cartuja stadium in Seville. (AP)

School. The price distribution ceremony

graced by former vice president of NCA, P. B Jamir.

Dimapur Young Xl celebrate with the trophy.

Praveen Chithravel

Deepak Bhoria

Jeremy Lalrinnunga

SRH beat RR by 4 wickets in last-ball thriller

JAIPUR, MAY 7 (AGENCIES): Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match number 52 of IPL 2023 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Riding on a superb innings from Jos Buttler (95 off 59) coupled with an unbeaten 66 off 38 from captain Sanju Samson, Rajasthan opting to bat first, posted 214/2. In response, Hyderabad registered a thrilling last-ball four-wicket win.

The run-chase swayed one way and the other unlike the first innings where Rajasthan really dominated with Yashasvi Jaiswal (35 off 18) and Buttler helping the Men in Pink off to a great start followed by Buttler and Samson’s incredible partnership worth 138 off 81.

Hyderabad too had a good start with Anmolpreet Singh (33 off 25)

and Abhishek Sharma (55 off 34) adding over 50 runs inside the powerplay before Yuzvendra Chahal broke the partnership. This was followed by a 65 off 41 stand between Rahul Tripathi (47 off 29) and Abhishek. Heinrich Klaasen made 26 off 12 including the longest six of the night but the pressure of mounting run rate meant RR were on with over 40 runs to win in the last 2 overs.

However, it was really the cameo from Glenn Phillips (25 off 7), playing just his second match of the season, that kept them in the game till the last over.

In the last over too, Abdul Samad was dropped twice first by Obed McCoy off the first ball before what would have made for a blinder of a catch from Joe Root but went for six in the next ball. With 5 needed of one

ball, Samad seemed to have hit it straight to long off and for a brief while RR celebrated it was later found to be a no ball and off the next ball, Samad had connected well enough to find the maximum.

Yuzvendra Chahal’s 4 for 29 in a match where the opposition needed over 10 runs an over from the outset went in vain.

The result means SRH are now at the 9th place with 8 points while RR stay at the fourth place with 10 points. But Hyderabad have played a game less (10) than Rajasthan (11).

BRIEF SCORES Rajasthan Royals: 214 for 2 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 95, Sanju Samson 66 not out; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1/44).

Sunrisers Hyderabad: 217 for 6 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 55; Yuzvendra Chahal 4/29).

Gujarat Titans crush Lucknow Super Giants by 56 runs

AHMEDABAD, MAY 7

(PTI): Gujarat Titans’ juggernaut continued in the Indian Premier League as the defending champions crushed Lucknow Super Giants by 56 runs here on Sunday to remain perched on the top of the table.

This was their eighth win in 11 matches, taking their tally to 16 points and closer to the play-offs.

Gujarat Titans, propelled to their highest-ever total of 227 for two courtesy a franchise record 142-run partnership between Shubman Gill (94 not out) and Wriddhiman Saha (81), came back strongly in the second half of LSG’s chase to emerge winners in a comprehensive manner.

Chasing 228, LSG stroked their way to a strong 102 for one at the halfway mark but the wheels came off eventually, with GT tying down their batters with tight overs.

Sabalenka topples Swiatek to clinch Madrid Open title

MADRID (SPAIN), MAY 7 (IANS): World No.2 Aryna Sabalenka clinched the Madrid Open title with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 win over World No.1 Iga Swiatek in the final on Saturday night.

Sabalenka, the 2021 Madrid champion, took 2 hours and 26 minutes to topple top-seeded Swiatek and win the tournament for the second time in the last three years. The achievement marks Sabalenka’s 13th career WTA Tour singles title.

Both of Sabalenka’s Madrid titles have come at the expense of the reigning World No.1 in the final. Two years ago, Sabalenka beat then-World No.1 Ashleigh Barty to collect the crown.

Sabalenka converted her fourth break point of the day to take a critical 5-3 lead in the first set. An ace gave Sabalenka her first set point in that game, which she converted with an error-forcing backhand.

In the second set, Swiatek saw her 3-0 lead slide all the way back to 3-3, but the top seed slammed a return winner to reclaim her break advantage at 5-3. Swiatek served out the set to tie up the match, after halving her unforced errors from eight in the first set to four in the second. A gripping third set saw Sabalenka lead 3-0, only to drop her serve at love with a double fault and let Swiatek pull back on serve at 3-2. But the Sabalenka power game held sway down the stretch, as she cracked a forehand winner crosscourt to break for 5-3.

Sabalenka needed four championship points to break through Swiatek’s defense, at last closing out the win with one final fiery forehand. Sabalenka’s 32 winners nearly doubled Swiatek’s 17, as second-ranked Sabalenka increased her lead at No.1 in the Race to the WTA Finals.

Despite Quinton de Kock’s brilliant 70 in his first game this season and Kyle Mayers’ brisk 48 at the top, LSG middle-order crumbled against a mountainous chase to concede the

contest, finishing at 171 for seven in 20 overs.

Lucknow Super Giants knocked off 50 runs from the target in only four overs with both Mayers and de Kock finding momentum.

While Mayers began with three consecutive fours off Hardik Pandya in the second over, the third from Mohammad Shami yielded 19 runs with de Kock hitting a couple of fours and Mayers getting a six and a four.

Mayers was also severe on Rashid Khan in the fifth, hitting him for a six and a four to collect 14 runs as LSG reached 72 for no loss after the powerplay.

However, a brilliant catch from Rashid in the ninth over broke LSG’s open-

ing stand at 88. The Afghan player covered a distance of 26 metres from deep square leg and managed to hold on to the ball while diving to his right, getting rid of Mayers for 48 off 32 balls (7x4s, 2x6s) off Mohit Sharma.

But de Kock continued to flourish, flicking Hardik powerfully over midwicket for a six to take LSG to 102 for one halfway through.

Brief scores: Gujarat Titans 227/2 in 20 overs (Wriddhiman Saha 81 off 43, Shubman Gill 94 not out off 51; Avesh Khan 1-34, Mohsin Khan 1-42) beat Lucknow Super Giants 171/7 in 20 overs (Kyle Mayers 48, Quinton de Kock 70; Mohit Sharma 4-29) by 56 runs.

Gujarat Titans batter Wriddhiman Saha plays a shot during the IPL match against Lucknow Super Giants. (PTI)

Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Abhishek Sharma celebrates his half century during the IPL match, Sunday. (PTI)

Aryna Sabalenka