April 19, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 132

DIMAPUR, SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 Pages 6 (Online Edition)

COVID-19: Rajnath chairs GoM meet

Follow us on @Nagaland_Post

national, Page 3

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NEW DELHI, APR 18 (PTI): The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 488 and the number of cases climbed to 14,792 in the country on Saturday, registering an increase of 36 deaths and 957 cases since Friday evening, according to the Union Health Ministry.

The number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 12,289 while 2,014 people

Wholesale medical shops to open along CLC, NL road DIMAPUR, APR 18 (NPN): Wholesale medical shops along the Christian Literature Centre (CLC) lane, Nyamo Lotha Road (Church Road) Dimapur would be permitted to open from 9 a.m. to 12 noon with effect from April 20, 2020.

In an order, the deputy commissioner (DC) Dimapur, Anoop Kinchi, informed that shops located on the opposite side would remain sealed till further order.

The order also stated that only retail shops with permit/passes issued by the Nagaland Medical Dealers Association (NMDA) would be allowed to procure medicine/medical equipments from the medical wholesale shops, adding that no individual customers would be allowed.

Further, the order said that the following precautionary measures were to be mandatorily observed: mandatorily keep hand sanitiser or provide facilities for hand washing with soap and water for the public as well as for their own staff/workers. Further, the proprietor of the shops and establishments should regularly get the door handles, surfaces and other objects frequently touched by people cleaned and disinfected.

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“If you only know that I’m COVID-19 suspect, you’ll not touch me.�

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have been cured and discharged, and one had migrated, it said.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said 16,365 individuals in the country have so far been confirmed positive for the infection. The Union Health Ministry's figure of 14,792 cases includes 76 foreign nationals.

However, a PTI tally

Worldwide death toll rises to 1.54L

of the figures reported by various states as on Saturday 9:15 pm showed 518 deaths. There has been a lag in the Union Health Ministry figures, compared

Matterhorn lights up with Indian tricolour

nagalandpostofficial

to the number of deaths announced by different states, which officials attribute to procedural delays in assigning the cases to individual PARIS, APR 18 (AFP): The worldwide death toll states. from the novel coronavirus pandemic rose to 154,188 on Saturday, according to status REPORT AS ON APRIL 18, 2020 a tally from official sources North East Confirmed Recovered Death compiled by AFP. More than 2,251,690 Nagaland Nil Nil Nil declared cases have been registered in 193 countries Assam 35 9 1 and territories since the epiManipur 2 1 Nil demic first emerged in China Meghalaya 11 Nil 1 in December. Of these cases, Mizoram 1 Nil Nil at least 497,600 are now considered recovered.

Arunachal Pradesh 1 Nil Nil T h e t a l l i e s, u s i n g Tripura 2 1 Nil data collected by AFP D I M A P U R , A P R 1 8 providing professional coun- from national authorities (NPN): Out of 392 samples selling services to any per- and information from the sent for testing from the state son feeling anxious because World Health Organization including 61 samples, which of COVID-19 pandemic.

(WHO), probably reflect were sent Saturday, results He informed that any only a fraction of the actual of 292 samples have been such person could send number of infections. received and all retuned a WhatsApp message to Many countries are negative while results of 100 7005251298 for availing testing only the most serisamples were awaited as of counselling services. Mean- ous cases.

6pm Saturday. while, the principal secretary In the United States, In his daily briefing on has appealed for continued now the epicentre of the COVID-19 for Nagaland, adherence to the various pandemic, the death toll the principal secretary home, lockdown measures by ev- stood at 37,079 with 706,779 Abhijit Sinha, reiterated that eryone. He also urged the infections. At least 59,672 the state health & family citizens to abide by all the patients have recovered. welfare (H&FW) depart- directives of the district Italy is the next mostment in collaboration with administration and police affected country with 22,745 All Nagaland Counsellors issued from time to time deaths and 172,434 conAssociation (ANCA) was concerning the lockdown. firmed infections.

Nagaland: Results of 100 samples awaited

international, Page 6

NCD to refuse burial of COVID19 victims at Naga Cemetery Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, APR 18 (NPN): In what was a reminder of past fears where many did not allow burial of those who died of HIV&AIDS at public places etc., Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) president, T Bangerloba has expressed similar concerns with in the event of deaths due to COVID-19.

This was the view of the NCD president at an exclusive interview to Nagaland Post Saturday.

Bangerloba said the NCD has requested state government to be prepared to identity an alternate burial site in case of any victims of COVID-19.

The NCD president’s apprehension on burial of COVID-19 victims in the Naga cemetery arose over concerns on safety of colonies around it and people residing within the vicinity of the cemetery.

He said this concern had been made known to the state government so as to prepare for any eventuality.

It may be recalled that

A view of Naga Cemetery at Lake View colony on April 18. (NP)

the Naga Council Dimapur through its general secretary on April 17, 2020 had issued a notice informing that it was mandatory to produce death certificate indicating the nature and cause of death of a person.

The guideline also stated not more than two vehicles, with limited number of persons, will be allowed to go for the burial at the cemetery and wearing face masks was mandatory.

Bangerloba said that even otherwise, there is no more place for fresh burial in the cemetery except for very exceptional and unavoidable cases.

Ensure free movement of farmers: APC COVID-19 mortality rate in India

Y. Kikheto with Agri department officials at Hotel Saramati, Saturday. (NP)

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, APR. 18 (NPN): Special Committee member for COVID-19 Dimapur, Y Kikheto Sema has made a fervent appeal to volunteers manning the entry and exit points of colonies and villages across the state and Dimapur to allow movement farmers and sale of local Agri and Horti products.

Addressing the media here at hotel Saramati, Kikheto, who is also the Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) and commissioner & secretary for Agriculture department, pointed to the order issued recently by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare's order, which had allowed relaxation for agriculture-farming and allied ac-

tivities. Kikheto lamented about reports of volunteers in some areas not allowed to sell local products and some residents not allowed venture out to buy food items due to the lockdown.

He also said that if sale and movement of essential commodities were allowed, then what was not farmers allowed to sell their products?�

Kikheto further urged the state chief secretary to issue directives to not to restrict movement of agriculture and horticulture products.

He emphasised on importance of allowing farming activities to function without restriction in order to ensure there was no food shortage.

Kikheto therefore, appealed to village/colony authorities to

allow movement of agriculture products in the market and also to create awareness among the citizens.

On sealing of the wholesale market in Dimapur, Kikhetoreplied that there were around 150 wholesale shops in areas like Marwaripatti and Murgipatti etc. that deal and supply essential items to Dimapur and other districts.

Indicating that the lockdown should be an eye opener, Kikheto hoped it would be a wakeup call to Nagas ,particularly local farmers, to start learning the art of trade and market home grown Agriculture produce.

Director of Horticulture, Dr. Elithung Lotha informed that arrangements were made for those dealing with agriculture and horticulture products in areas where movements have been restricted. He also echoed the same concern that "if farming activities were restricted, there will be shortage of food products in the state."

around 3.3%: Health Ministry

He opined that as per WHO norms, burial of COVID-19 cases should be disposed off in isolated space. Bangerloba also said that in case of any death from COVID-19 in Dimapur, action plan for cremation or burial was not in NCD’s hand.

He further stressed that as per WHO norms dead bodies of COVID-19 victims are to be taken care of and disposed by the government. He therefore expressed the hope that the government would come up with an alternative site for burial of COVID-19 victims.

(Cont’d on p-3)

Dimapur police nab 4 on assault charges

DIMAPUR, APR 18 (NPN): Dimapur police Saturday arrested four persons on charges of physically assaulting some non-locals and circulation a video clip of the incident at Vidima village, Dimapur. According to Addl DCP (Crime) Dimapur, a case has been registered with sub urban police station for further investigation. The four accused have been identified as one Valen Sote, Medovi Kiso, Thejasekho Sirie and Vilakhotuo Vizo.Meanwhile, police have urged the public to exercise caution while posting pictures/videos on various social media platforms. Police also warned that stringent action would be taken against any such defaulter as per the relevant sections of IPC and Information Technology Act.

and one had migrated, it said.

About containment strategies implemented along with the lockdown, Agarwal said field-level actions are fetching positive results in several places.

"A positive trend has been noted in 47 districts of 23 states and Union Territories. Kodaggu in Karnataka is a new district added to this list along with Mahe in Puducherry that has not reported any fresh cases during the last 28 days," the official said.

Twenty-two new districts in 12 states have not reported any fresh case in the last 14 days. These districts include Lakhisarai, Bhagalpur and Gopalganj in Bihar, Udaipur and Dholpur in Rajasthan, Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir, Rohtak in Haryana and Vishakhaptnam in Andhra Pradesh, Agarwal said.

He, however, stated that Patna in Bihar, Nadia in West Bengal and Panipat in Haryana where there were no COVID-19 positive cases in the first two weeks, have now reported incidents of the infection.

DIMAPUR, APR 18 (Cont’d on p-3) (NPN): Dimapur district administration has informed that the permits for availing vegetables from the wholesale market at Super Market (Naga Shopping Arcade) would be issued by GB/ chairman of the colony or NEW DELHI, APR 18 cargo destinations across the village concerned as per re(AGENCIES): Air India on globe, where it will actively quirements with immediate Saturday opened bookings utilise its aircraft in ferrying effect. In view of the sealing for select domestic flights essentials such as fruits, veg- of Marwaripatti, Murgipatti from May 4 onwards and for etables and medical goods. and GS Road as a containThe airline has started ment measure to prevent the international flights from 1 June onwards. In wake of the service on routes to the spread of COVID-19, the the Covid-19 outbreak, the UK, Germany, Israel, China, Dimapur district administranational carrier had stopped Seychelles, Mauritius, Sri tion had shifted the existing accepting bookings on all Lanka and Maldives amongst vegetables/fruits wholesale domestic flights for travel others. India has been under market to Super Market with till May 3 and on all inter- lockdown since 25 March effect from April 18, 2020. national flights for travel till to curb the spread of novel coronavirus. The first phase May 31. “In the light of the of the lockdown was from 25 ongoing global health con- March to 14 April.

DIMAPUR, APR 18 Prime Minister Naren- (NPN): Due to COVID-19 cerns, we have currently stopped accepting bookings dra Modi on 14 April extend- emergency, the State Bank on all domestic flights for ed the lockdown till 3 May. of India (SBI) Old Market travel till May 3, 2020, and All domestic and interna- Branch, Dimapur would be on all international flights tional commercial passenger operating from SBI Bazaar for travel till May 31, 2020,� flights have been suspended Branch, Dhobinala with ima notification on Air India’s during this period. On 3 mediate effect. Customers April, Air India had said it have been requested to visit website said on Saturday.

Under the Centre’s has stopped bookings, both Bazaar Branch for essential “KrishiUdan� scheme, the domestic and international, banking transactions till airline has identified 10 till the end of the month. further order.

NEW DELHI, APR 18 (PTI): Union Health Ministry on Saturday said the mortality rate for COVID-19 cases in India is around 3.3% , while over 13% patients have recovered so far. Addressing a daily media briefing about the novel coronavirus situation in the country, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Agarwal said data indicates that of the people who died due the infection 14.4% were between 0-45 years, 10.3% between 45-60 years, 33.1% between 60-75 years and 42.2% were aged 75 and above.

"We saw that 75.3% deaths were among those aged 60 or above and in 83% cases there were co-morbidities," he said and reiterated that the elderly and those with co-morbid conditions are at high risk.

By Saturday evening, the death toll due to coronavirus infection in India rose to 488, while the number of cases climbed to 14,792, according to data provided by the Centre.

While the number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 12,289, as many as 2,014 people have been (Cont’d on p-3) cured of the disease and discharged,

Permits for availing veggies

ICMR launches study on side effects of chloroquine Air India opens bookings for select domestic routes

NEW DELHI, APR 18 (PTI): Some health care workers in India who selfmedicated themselves with anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine have shown side effects like abdominal pain, nausea and hypoglycemia among others, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Saturday.

Head of Epidemiology and Communicable diseases at ICMR Raman R Gangakhedkar said the ICMR has launched a study on side effects of HCQ using data of some health care workers who had started taking it. “The average age of such health workers...is 35 years. The most visible side effect was that of abdominal pain which was reported in ten % of all those who consumed the medication while nausea-like symptoms were reported in 6 %.

"A fewer proportion -- around 1.3 % -- had hypo-

glycaemia," Gangakhedkar said.

He said that the study so far has revealed that 22 % of these health care workers who consumed HCQ had existing co-morbidities like diabetes or blood pressure problems or vascular-related ailments or respiratory illnesses and they started taking the drug out of fear of contracting the disease.

"What has come to fore is that despite they being health care workers, 14 % of them did not even got their ECG checked before having it," Gangakhedkar said. He further informed that AIIMS is conducting studies on assessing both

prophylactic and therapeutic impact of HCQ on COVID19, i.e. the ability of the drug for both prevention and healing.

"We need to understand that at many places health care workers out of fear are trying to take this medicine and in some places the consumption is not that high so it impacts the study design and collection of data. We are facing difficulty in finding a homogenous population," the scientist said. He underlined that even health care workers should consume the drug after proper consultation with doctors.

Gangakhedkar further said that the ICMR has also initiated a separate study to find out the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine as a preventive medicine for COVID-19 in which around 480 patients will be enrolled and studied for eight weeks.

The ICMR has earlier recommended the use of drug as a preventive medication to health care workers and household contacts looking after a positive case.

Besides, the Union Health Ministry has also recommended use of hydroxychloroquine in combination with Azithromycin on those severely suffering from COVID-19 who require ICU management. "But then one should take it only if prescribed by a physician as the drug has side effects," the official had said.

Responding to a question over antiviral medication Remdesivir, Gangakhedkar said the drug which was used during the Ebola outbreak may inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 replication and research on its efficacy in the treatment of COVID19 is a part of the WHO's 'solidarity trial.'

SBI old mkt to operate from Bazaar branch

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020

Continuous efforts towards combating COVID-19 pandemic across state

DIMAPUR: In the continuous fight against COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure that preventive measures are being strictly followed in Nagaland, the legislators have been taking stock of preparedness level in various districts. District administrations have also been holding review meetings, conducting awareness activities and issuing advisories for the general public. Social organisations continue to reach out to the needy and helpless people during the lockdown period to alleviate their plight. Sanitisation of town areas and vehicles are also carried out to deter any possible outbreak of the dreaded virus.

Phek district

Mon district

Phek district legislators along with administrative officials, security, F&CS at the office chamber of DC Phek. (DIPR)

Legislators visit hospitals under Phek district: Minister of Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue & Parliamentary Affairs, and minister in-charge of Phek District COVID-19, Neiba Kronu along with MLAs Kuzholuzo Nienu and Kezhienyi Khalo visited Phek district head quarter and interacted with officials from district administration, security forces, Food & Civil Supplies at DC Phek office on April 17.

According to DIPR report, Neiba Kronu urged the officers to jointly venture out in fighting against the deadly virus COVID-19 and strictly adhere to lockdown provisions, adding that following lockdown measures was the only way to stay safe.

Kronu further requested them to closely monitor the essential commodities by coordinating with the local leaders. Minister

DC Mon issues order, information: Deputy commissioner (DC), Mon Thavaseelan K in an order stated that identity of people affected by COVID-19 pandemic or suspected to be a positive case have been exposed and circulated in social media which could lead to stigmatization and mental trauma. Therefore, all the individuals/institutions/organisations of Mon are requested to refrain from spreading such unverified information without prior permission from recognized authority; Any individual/institutions/organisations found exposing the identity of COVID-19 affected people through sharing of biodata or photo in various print and electronic media, shall be penalised. DC also informed that the All Nagaland Counsellors Association in collaboration with Health & Family Welfare department will be rendering telephonic counselling services on voluntary basis to the following categories of people: Persons at quarantine facilities, 10 a.m to 5 p.m; Persons under home quarantine, 6 a.m to 9 p.m; Anyone requiring counselling, 6 a.m to 9 p.m.

Any person desiring to avail the counselling service can send their details through WhatsApp to 7005251298, which will be passed on to ANCA to reach out to the clients. Details should include name, age/gender, place of calling, present problem or reason in brief. The confidentiality of the person will be strictly maintained.

on behalf of Phek district legislators also assured to extend fullest cooperation at all times and appealed them to cooperate with the government. Kuzholuzo Nienu also shared on the importance of maintaining judicious utilization of essential commodities by coordinating with the local leaders and providing equality, justice & transparency. Kezhienyi Khalo expressed his concern over the availability and utilization of medical facilities including PPE and other protective gears so as to maintain safety measures. The team also visited the District Hospital Phek and interacted with the staff. Earlier, Neiba Kronu visited PHC Chizami and while returning back to Kohima visited hospital authority at Chozuba and also held a short interaction with the Women folk of Longleng receiving food grains from the administrative officials and public leaders National Food Security Act scheme under Food and Civil at Pfutsero.

Supplies department.

Longleng district

Kiphire district DC Kiphire visits Pungro for COVID-19 preparedness: Deputy commissioner (DC) Kiphire, Sarita Yadav and her team visited Pungro on April 18 to review the preparedness of Pungro sub-division against COVID-19 pandemic. According to DIPR report, in a brief interaction with the hospital authority, Sarita inquired on the needs and requirements and assured that the government will continue to provide all possible support and help for mitigation and control of the disease. She also appealed to all the doctors, nurses and staff to be prepared and stay ready. ADC Pungro Abhinav Shivam and other officials accompanied DC during the visit to CHC where eight isolation wards have been prepared, and Rest House prepared as quarantine for accommodation up to 20 persons.

Meanwhile, DC also advised the farmers to fol-

low the certain precautionary and safety measures in order to avoid the field level contagious spread of coronavirus: All the farmers engaged should compulsory use masks or a scarf that adequately cover the nose and mouth; Ensure hand washing with soap and water frequently; Clothes must be washed after use every day; Maintain safe distance of 3-4 feet during rest, taking meals; Do not share meal or earphones, also drink plenty of water during farm operations to avoid dehydration; Stagger the field operation wherever possible and avoid engaging more number of farmers on the same day in a given field; Engage only the healthy farmers or labours to the extent possible and after reasonable enquiry so as to avoid the entry of any likely carrier during field activity; All tools/implements or any other items used by one farmers should be sanitized and should not

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is the state govt failing to provide better PPEs to health workers?

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A

B

A Yes. B No. C Can’t say.

C

75% 13% 12%

Next poll

Q: Should all MLAs be

given charge of their constituencies to combat COVID-19?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t say.

WEATHER FORECAST april 19

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Strong t-storms in the morning 34 22 Aizawl

A t-storms around in the morning 30 18

Guwahati Strong t-storms in the morning 30 19 Imphal

Hazy sunshine

Itanagar Morning showers

32 15 23 18

Shillong

A p.m. t-storms in spots

Kohima

Some rain and a thunderstorm 24 14

Dimapur Hazy sunshine Mkg

A morning t-storms in spots

24 15 30 19 25 14

Tuensang A thunderstorms in spots

18 12

Rather cloudy

24 17

Wokha

Zunheboto A morning t-storms in the area 23 13

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CYO directives for engaging in social media platforms: Chakhroma Youth Organization (CYO) has issued directives on use of social media platforms, to be followed by all Chakhroma members and also any individual or groups in Chakhroma jurisdiction while engaging in the digital world. A press release from CYO president Seyieneilhou Keyho and general secretary, Noseho Peter stated that directives are issued in view of irresponsible fake news circulated in social medias: Do not circulate/forward

be exchanged in any other manner.

ESH appeals public to abide by government advisory: Eastern Sumi Hoho (ESH) has appealed to all bonafide citizens to constructively participate in the fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.

A press release by ESH vice president H. Phutoi Sumi and general secretary Robert Heeto reminded all the students and employees stranded outside Kiphire district to avoid travelling back home for now and stay safe till lockdown period is lifted. ESH also directed all bonafide citizens of ESH to strictly abide by the laid down rules of the district administration and warned that any breach of this advisory by any individual would be treated as an affront in its fight against COVID-19.

ESH also requested the department of Food & Civil Supplies Dimapur,

Kohima district news, pictures, videos or any other documents from unverified sources; Do not spread/disseminate news, information in individual capacity, if information need to be publicized only do so after authorized bodies/organizations has officially approved of it; Engage in social media platforms responsibly, avoid using languages that will hurt the sentiments of other communities (racism, tribalism); Refrain from making comments/videos/ voice notes targeting other religions (religious intolerance); Kindly report to the

district administration and administrator of Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) to enhance more supply

Kiphire Town Council (KTC) as a way of creating hygienic practice has placed hand sanitiser in strategic locations to combat COVID-19 pandemic. The sanitisers have been placed at DC office Kiphire, main town and ATM booth. (DIPR)

Y.Vikheho Swu along with other officials and medical team at CHC Pughoboto on April 17.

COVID-19 activities report from Pughoboto: Y.Vikheho Swu, MLA 13 Pughoboto A/C visited Pughoboto on April 17 to take stock about the preparedness level of COVID-19 in Pughoboto subdivision. A small meeting with the district administration, Police, Medical, Food & Civil Supplies and representatives from important NGOs such as Adhoc Town Council was convened at the office of ADC Pughoboto.

At the meeting, SMO (Medical) Pughoboto, Dr. Hokugha Sema gave a report about the subdivision which has a Community Health Centre (CHC) at Pughoboto town: Quarantine centre and an isolation ward (with two beds and oxygen facility) have been set up in Pughoboto with the assistance from the district administration; CHC Pughoboto has received 20 (twenty) nos of PPEs from the government but they are of inferior quality which will not shield the doctors and medical personnel; 200 (two hundred) nos of face masks have been received but they are not N95 masks; 200 bottles (500 ml each) sanitisers received till date. Sanitisers to all medical sub-centres in Pughoboto subdivision have been distributed; Food and water of the medical teams on duty are borne by themselves. Food & Civil Supplies reported that there are 2 (two) Public Distribution Systems in the subdivision, one in Pughoboto and the other in Ghatashi catering to the 24 villages of the subdivision; Pughoboto PDS receives 340 quintals of rice under PHH scheme and 89 quintals of rice under AAY, which is yet to reach Pughoboto; Ghatashi PDS receives 258 quintals of rice under PHH and 89 quintals of rice under AAY, which has been already received; Under PMGKS, all ration card holders will be getting 5 kgs of rice during this COVID19 period, with stock expected to reach soon; NSDMA has also allotted relief rice especially for the migrant and stranded labourers, daily wage earners, old age homes, orphanages, hostels, etc. Pughoboto has received 300 bags (50 kgs each) which the district administration will distribute after examining the number of these targeted groups in the subdivision; As far as food grains are concerned the subdivision is in a comfortable position till date. Police department report was given by SDPO Pughoboto, Tizhi Pojar. He informed that: 3 (three) 24x7 check posts have been set up in the subdivision since March 26, one at Asukiqa

area, second at Lazami-Pughoboto entry point and the third at Ghatashi. All inter district movement of vehicles restricted except for medical emergency, essential commodities; No protective gears for the police against COVID-19 except surgical masks and sanitizers; Food and water for the police team manning the check posts are borne by the jawans themselves. No fund/assistance received from the government till date; Should there be any eventuality, quarantine centre has to be provided with security which Pughoboto is short of police personnel. At present there are only about 50 (fifty) police personnel with two vehicles in Pughoboto manning the police stations at Pughoboto, Ghatashi, and 3 check posts. ADC Pughoboto Moa Lemtur in his report said that all logistics are in place and the district administration was taking every possible step to execute the orders and directives of the government; Vehicular permits to go outside Pughoboto are issued only for medical emergencies and for essential commodities; Dobashis are assisting the police at the check posts.

All expenses for DBs and administrative officers are borne by themselves; No shortage of essential commodities till date. Regarding fund position for Pughoboto, Rs. 30,000/- received from the DC Zunheboto to meet the requirements of the COVID-19 preparation. The money was handed over to Medical department; Rs.1, 00, 000/received from Y. Vikheho Swu, MLA Pughoboto; Rs.10,000/- received from VDB Association Pughoboto; Rs.10, 000/received from. Hekuto Chishi EE PWD (R &B) Pughoboto; Rs. 2000/- received from Mustafa a resident of Pughoboto town.

Zunheboto frontline workers on rotation basis: District medical team and police personnel deployed at both entry gates to the district has been placed for 24 hours on rotation basis. Night shift will strictly check the vehicles entering the district at night and to ensure that no entry is permitted inside the district without proper permission of the higher authority or the district administration.

Zunheboto Battalion: Zunheboto Battalion handed over basic essentials to Zunheboto Sumi Totimi Hoho (ZSTH) for further distribution to aggrieved residents of Zunheboto town. Rice bags were also distributed to Veer Naris and for children of Sakhalu orphanage.

Tuensang district right authority about posts, videos or documents that are inappropriate or false or harmful for the society, instead of sharing it further. CYO also reminded its members to follow the COVID-19 lockdown order and precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the pandemic by maintaining hygienic practices, practising social distancing and not to venture out unless for emergencies. CYO also urged its members to be well aware and engage in social medias as per the advisory of Police department.

Dimapur district DC Dimapur directs sanitisation of LPG cylinders: Deputy commissioner (DC) Dimapur, Anoop Kinchi, has directed the senior sales officer of LPG Bottling Plant, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. Chümoukedima for ensuring sanitization of all LPG cylinders. This also extends to the vehicles on LPG distribution duty for providing door to door delivery services of LPG cylinders to the public. DC Dimapur also directed the officials transporting and distributing cylinders, to mandatorily wear mask and also to maintain social distancing. DC also convened a meeting of the District Task Force (DTF) for COVID19 pandemic in Dimapur district at DC conference hall on April 20, 10 a.m. All concerned members have been requested to attend the meeting.

NPF minority wing extends helping hands in Dimapur: Minority wing of Naga People’s Front (NPF) along with its team extended helping hands to the underprivileged and needy families resid-

and distribution of essential goods and commodities to Kiphire district whenever the need arise.

Zunheboto district

ing in and around the areas of 4th Mile and Model village, Dimapur on April 18.

A press release from NPF minority wing central vice president, Devendra Rana stated that, the team reached the two different areas and colonies and distributed dry ration and green vegetables to the beneficiaries. More than 100 families received the relief. Food was distributed under the guidance of respective village leaders and pastor Vikeshi Swu, Believers Church of Model village.

NBCD distributes relief rice to needy households: Notun Bosti Council Dimapur (NBCD) on April 17 distributed 15 bags of relief rice to the needy households/underprivileged persons within Notun Bosti Colony in Dimapur.

A press release from NBCD chairman E. Jon Ezung and secretary, Kavito Ayemi stated that, the relief rice was donated by Moatoshi Lonkumer, MLA 2 Dimapur-2 A/C. NBCD also lauded the gesture of the MLA.

DC Tuensang directives to offices and safety of staff: Deputy commissioner (DC), Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant has issued the following directives to facilitate resumption of offices under Tuensang district jurisdiction: The following departments listed below which have activities of essential and urgent nature will identify the minimum staff and officers for ensuring that the department continues to function and provide essential services, namely Medical/Planning/Treasury/Power/Agriculture and allied depts /DPRO/ Veterinary/PHED/Social Welfare/Fire & Emergency Services/Home Guards & Civil Defence/NIC/Food and Civil Supplies; All the above mentioned departments will work out and submit government registered vehicle numbers and the name of officers and staff along with 2 passport photos each to SDO (Civil) Tuensang, Shelley Katiry for issue of passes; All other departments not mentioned above are to nominate one nodal officer and two more staff who will coordinate and ensure functioning of their offices so that all the essential and urgent matters pertaining to the department is looked after on time. Such departments are to give details of the officers and staff along with 2 passport photos

ADC Shamator Lankonsen chairing the Task Force review meeting held at conference hall.

each as mentioned above.

All HoDs are to be available on telephone and electronic means of communication at all times; Only number of government registered vehicles should be given and the HoDs are to make arrangements for transportation of their officers and staff in the designated vehicles of their departments.

DC Tuensang also issued following advisories to ensure the safety of staff/ personnel and clients in quarantine facilities under Tuensang district: All staff/ personnel are to be trained on safe practices and infection prevention & control, including hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene, personal hygiene, disinfection of work place, safe disposal of waste etc as per extent of SoPs; Institute measure to promote minimal contact between care giver and clients and advocate strict social distancing; All clients

in the quarantine facilities to wear triple layered mask at all time; All personnel of the quarantine facilities are to wear appropriate PPEs depending on nature of job as per extent SoPs; Emergency medical facilities should be arranged and contact number of medical team to be displayed in the quarantine facilities prominently; Security for perimeter control and to restrict unauthorised movement of people and vehicle; It is obligatory on the part of all client to cooperate with the authority and to disclose factual information on travel history, contact history or development of any signs and symptoms to the health personnel.

Shamator Task Force COVID-19 meeting: Task Force for COVID-19 held a review meeting at conference hall, chaired by ADC Shamator, Lankonsen Tsanglao.

According to DIPR report,

ADC expressed gratitude to all its Task Force members/ committees for successfully implementing assigned duties and also thanked local bodies let by Yimchungrü Tribal Council, Public Forum Shamator, Chambers of Commerce Shamator for their support.

The meeting also took stock of present daily needs and appealed to public not to panic for shortage of essential commodities and urged all public to stay at home which was the only way to save lives. Meeting also alerted all village councils, authorities to implement proper government guidelines. As of now Shamator sub-division has 2 quarantine centres, one each in Yakor and Chassir villages, maintained by council and VGs along with village health committee.

Tuensang Battalion: Tuensang Battalion reached out to aggrieved residents of remote villages and to public health centre, Tuensang by providing essential rations and sanitation materials.

Under the banner “Op Namaste”, while cleanliness and sanitisation drive was also undertaken at various locations. In a separate activity, the battalion also took initiatives to purchase fruits and vegetables from farmers to support their economic sustenance.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020

national/State

3

Delhi procures 42k rapid testing kits

6 Navy personnel in Western Naval Command test positive for COVID-9

New Delhi, April 18 (IANS): Strengthening the testing process to track the spread of Covid19, the Delhi government has procured 42,000 rapid anti-body kits which will be used in containment areas from Sunday, Health Minister Satyendar Jain said on Saturday.

Jain said: “We have received 42,000 rapid test kits, now we will be able to quicken testing process to detect corona-infected people within a short span of time.”

Giving information about the coronavirus cases in the national capital, Jain said, “67 new coronavirus cases have been reported in Delhi during last 24 hours, taking the tally to 1,707. So far 42 people have died due to the virus infection. As many as 911 patients who tested positive for Covid-19 have been admitted to major hospitals in Delhi.”

Out of these, 83 people have a history of foreign travel. At the same time, 353 people contracted the disease due to contact with infected people while 191 patients do not yet know the reason behind contraction.

NEW DELHI, APR 18 (PTI): At least 26 Indian Navy personnel have tested positive for coronavirus at the strategically-located Western Naval Command in Mumbai, in the first case of a major outbreak of the deadly infection in the armed forces.

All the infected sailors were serving at the INS Angre, a shore-based logistics and support establishment, and they are currently undergoing treatment at a Navy hospital, official sources said.

The number of infected sailors is 26, military sources confirmed. However, in a statement in the morning, the Navy has put the number of infected sailors at 21. The difference in the number could not be reconciled immediately.

The Navy has launched a large-scale contact tracing operation to track people who may have come in contact with the sailors. Almost all the residents of the residential building inside INS Angre are being tested, the sources said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and top military brass were briefed about

COVID-19: Rajnath chairs GoM meet

New Delhi, April 18 (IANS): A Group of Ministers’ meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday reviewed the situation in the wake of extension of lockdown due to Covid-19 up to May 3, in New Delhi. The meeting examined suggestions received to enlist services of retired doctors, health professionals and medical students in the final year of their graduation, government sources said.

The GoM noted that these measures will allow resumption of graded economic activity keeping in view local conditions “within the ambit of measures to prevent the spread of the virus”.

The members deliberated on allowing partial economic activity in nonhotspot zones from April 20, as proposed by the Centre, sources said. The GoM obtained feedback from various Ministers on the COVID-19 situation.

The GoM unanimously appreciated the decision of gradual opening up of economic activity in areas which have not reported any Corona cases in line with the MHA guidelines issued on April 15.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chairs a Group of Ministers (GoM) meeting on developments related to COVID-19 in New Delhi, Saturday. (PTI)

During the meeting, the disbursement of Rs 31,000 crore to more than 33.25 crore beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana to mitigate the problems of economically weaker sections of population was “strongly appreciated”, sources said.

All GoM members felt the need to reiterate an appeal to fellow Indians to observe strict social distancing norms and refrain from participating in mass prayers or religious congre-

COVID-19 mortality rate...

(From p-1) Highlighting how continued efforts and cluster containment strategies have yielded positive results in Kerala’s Kasargod district, the officer said out of 168 COVID-19 cases there, 113 have already been cured. “Most importantly, due to proper clinical management, not even one infected person died. The remaining 55 active cases are being monitored well.” Talking about the challenges the district faced, Agarwal said it had 15.38% of abroad population. The third case reported in India in February with a travel history from China was contained quickly.

After the return of people from West Asia on March 16 there was a sudden spurt in the number cases. Geographic position of the district also posed a challenge, he said.

“They did monitored home quarantined people using geo-spatial tracking, and implemented break-the-chain campaign to promote social distancing, used drones and incident commanders. More than 17,300 contacts were traced and quarantined, aggressive and quick testing was done, COVID Care Centres and ICU facilities were set up,” Agarwal said. One major intervention was that all primary and secondary contacts and high-risk cases were quarantined in isolation centres, he said. Urging people to follow the lockdown and guidelines of social-distancing to contain the spread of the virus, the joint secretary in the health ministry said, “We have to be on continuous vigil to fight this battle.”

3 CRPF men killed in Kashmir

SRINAGAR, APR 18 (PTI): Three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed and as many injured in a terrorist attack in north Kashmir’s Sopore town on Saturday, officials said.

The terrorists fired at a check post that was jointly being manned by troops of CRPF’s 179th battalion and the Jammu and Kashmir Police, they said.

This is the third attack against the paramilitary force in the Kashmir valley within a week.

gations.

Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Indians to make contributions in feeding the needy people, making face masks at home and maintaining social distancing. The Rajnath Singhled GoM reiterated that appeal on Saturday.

This is the fifth meeting of the GoM on COVID19 since March 25. All inputs, suggestions and feedback from the discussions held at these meetings are conveyed to the Prime Minister by Singh.

The other ministers who were part of the meeting on Saturday were D.V. Sadananda Gowda, Ram Vilas Paswan, Smriti Irani, Prakash Javadekar, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Pralhad Joshi, Giriraj Singh, Santosh Gangwar, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hardeep Puri, G Kishan Reddy among others.

The nationwide lockdown was extended till May 3, in view of the rising COVID-19 cases, on April 14, the day the first lockdown was to end.

Odisha CM announces Rs 100-crore package for 4.5 lakh urban poor families Bhubaneswar, Apr 18 (PTI): Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday announced a Rs 100-crore package to provide livelihood support to around 4.5 lakh urban poor families affected by the lockdown imposed across the country due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The Urban Wage Employment Initiative will help sustain the livelihood of the poor families residing in 114 urban local body areas of the state, an official in the Chief Minister’s Office said.

T h e p r o g r a m m e, which will be implemented in association with the Mission Shakti Department, will continue till September in order to create livelihood opportunities for workers, labourers and daily wagers, he said.

The wages of every beneficiary will be credited directly to his/her bank account every week, he said, adding that the

Naveen Patnaik (File) programme will be implemented by strictly adhering to the social distancing norms. The guidelines regarding the lockdown will have to be strictly followed while carrying out various tasks.

The objective is to make available livelihood opportunities through labour-oriented works to people belonging to the economically weaker section who have been severely affected by the ongoing lockdown, he said.

A number of development works like cleaning

Over confidence blamed for spread of virus in Indore I N D O RE , APR I L 1 8 (IANS): The commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh -- Indore, despite enjoying the status of the cleanest city in the country, has earned the dubious distinction of recording a very high fatality rate due to coronavirus.

Home to political bigwigs, the city is in the grip of the deadly virus with 842 coronavirus positive cases and 47 deaths till last count.

Many believe it is the over confidence on the part of the administrative machinery that led to the spread of the virus.

Out of a total of 1342 corona positive cases in Madhya Pradesh, 842 are from Indore, a share of 64 per cent.

So far as deaths are concerned, Indore’s share is 68 per cent (47) out of the 69 deaths reported in the state so far.

Politically also, Indore is very active. Former Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, BJP General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and a host of other politicians hail from this place.

The rapidly rising number of infections and the resultant deaths are the talk of the town here.

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Home to political bigwigs, the city is in the grip of the deadly virus with 842 coronavirus positive cases and 47 deaths till last count.

Amulya Nidhi, a social activist said, “ There is no coordination between different agencies here. The script for the rapid spread of the virus was written on March 22, the day of Janata Curfew, when it was like a sudden blowout in the evening. All norms of social distancing went for a toss when a big celebration was organised at Rajwada, as if India has won something big.”

He said, “Indore is known as the cleanest city in the country. It is also very developed with all

modern amenities. It has an international airport.

Flights from various countries directly land here. Rail and bus transport system here are of high class. Industrially it is a hub. Many foreigners keep coming and going. It has top class educational institutions.

Students from far off places come here for education and coaching purposes.

The unemployed youth get employment here.”

Collector Manish Singh believes that it is due to outsiders that the city got infected so widely. He

said, “Coronavirus came to Indore through passengers coming from abroad by air. Five to six thousand passengers came to Indore by flights. It is they who brought the virus here. They were neither screened at the airport nor made to self quarantine. There is no other way the virus would have come to the city. “ Vinay Bakliwal, president of the Indore Pharmacist Association, said that the biggest reason for the spread of coronavirus is not following the social distancing norms.

of drains, sanitisation, digging and remediation of water bodies, remodelling of playgrounds, development of sports infrastructure and parks, and construction of public toilets will be undertaken under the programme, the official said.

Apart from this, local artists will also be provided with the opportunity to work and do wall painting and mural painting in a major beautification drive, he added.

T h e C OV I D - 1 9 pandemic has not only emerged as a health problem, but also caused an economic and social crisis, the official said.

While the outbreak is affecting all segments of the population, it has hit hard socially and economically vulnerable sections of the society, he added.

The chief minister expressed hope that the programme would help the economically weaker section in this hour of crisis.

NDMC slaps Rs. 1000 fine for spitting New Delhi, April 18 (IANS): In the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak in the country, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) on Saturday announced that spitting or urinating in public spaces shall be punishable with fine.

With the effect of the order, anyone found violating the directive will be slapped with a fine of Rs 1,000.

The order comes in compliance with a threeday old directive issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which made spitting in public spaces a punishable offence.

The MHA order had also said that there should be a strict ban on sale of liquor, gutka, tobacco and “spitting should be strictly prohibited during the new lockdown period extended up to May 3.”

Notifying the order on Saturday, New Delhi Municipal Council said, “With a view to ensure strict compliance of the aforesaid directives to contain the spread of Covid-19, the chairperson, NDMC, is of the opinion that a public notice should be issued.”

Admiral Karambir Singh the outbreak and they are keeping a close eye on the situation.

The Western Naval Command is considered a strategic establishment as it takes care of India’s maritime interests in the the Arabian Sea as well as parts of the Indian Ocean. The Naval dockyard in Mumbai is only few hundred metres away from INS Angre.

“We are taking all possible steps,” a Navy official said without elaborating when asked about the measures being taken to check the spread of the infection following the outbreak which comes at a time when a number of navies globally are grappling with the

pandemic. Over 660 sailors onboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt, an aircraft carrier of the US Navy, reported coronavirus infection. A third of the nearly 2,000 sailors onboard French Navy’s aircraft carrier Charles-deGaulle and its support ships also infected the virus.

The sources said 25 of the infected personnel were staying at a building having single-room accommodation and barracks within INS Angre complex while one sailor was living with his mother in his own house.

The sailor’s mother also tested positive, the sources said. The Navy is carrying out virus testing of all people staying in the residential accommodation which has been declared as a “containment zone”.

The INS Angre was put under total lockdown as per the prescribed protocol of apex medical research body ICMR, they said.

“Most of the (cases) are asymptomatic and have been traced to a single sailor who was tested positive on April 7. They all reside in the same accommodation block at INS Angre,” the Navy said.

NCD to refuse burial of COVID-19 victims at Naga Cemetery

(From p-1) Bangerloba maintained that Naga Cemetery at Lake View colony belonged to Naga Council, and that there was no need to take permission from the state government regarding the rules laid down by it (NCD).

Keeping in view that the present Naga Cemetery at Lake View Colony was now almost full, Bangerloba stated that NCD had come up with a new site for burial, located near Zani Village, six miles away from Zion Hospital. It was informed that NCD had procured more than 19 bighas from the relief amount of Rs. 19 lakhs, given during the previous tenure of present chief minister, Neiphiu Rio.

Ensure free movement of farmers: APC

(From p-1) “Nagaland should not always depend on mainland India for food grains/products” he maintained. Additional secretary Agri, Temsunaro Aier said there was a high chance that the state might face acute shortage of food grains if movement/ transportation were delayed. She said farmers were yet to receive seeds as most meant for distribution were stuck because of the lockdown.

CYO directives on use of social media

DIMAPUR, APR 18 (NPN): Chakhroma Youth Organization (CYO) while observing that the increased misuse of social media and dissemination of fake news was further deteriorating the prevailing situation Saturday issued directive on use of social media platforms to all Chakhroma members and any individual or groups residing under Chakhroma jurisdiction.

In a press release, CYO president Seyieneilhou Keyho and general secretary Noseho Peter has advised all responsible not to circulate/forward news, pictures, videos or any other documents from unverified sources. CYO also advised against spreading news and information in individual capacity and, if needed, it should be done only after official approval by authorised organisation.

Further, calling for using social media platforms responsibly, CYO said that members must avoid using languages that would hurt the sentiments of other communities.

It also appealed for refraining from making comments/videos/voice notes targeting other religions.

CYO has informed the members to report to the responsible authority about posts, videos or documents that were inappropriate or false or harmful for the society instead of forwarding. CYO has reminded its members to follow COVID-19 lockdown order and precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the pandemic by maintaining hygiene, social distancing and not to venture out unless for emergencies.

CYO directed all its units to follow its directives in their own jurisdiction.

Plea in SC to allow migrant workers return home after COVID-19 tests NEW DELHI, APR 18 (PTI): A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking direction to authorities to allow migrant workers across the country to return home after conducting necessary COVID-19 tests and also arrange their safe travel by providing necessary transportation.

The plea said that in wake of the extension of the nationwide lockdown, the migrant workers who are among the worst affected category of people must be allowed to go back to their homes after being tested for COVID-19.

The plea filed by Jagdeep S Chhokar, former director in-charge of Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, and Gaurav Jain, a lawyer, said those migrant workers who test negative for COVID-19 must not be forcefully kept in shelters or away from their homes and families against their wishes.

“In view of the facts and circumstances, it is submitted by the petitioners herein that, now, when the second period of nationwide lockdown has been announced for a period of April 15 to May 3, the state

authorities must arrange for the safe travel of those migrant workers who wish to go back to their native villages and hometowns in other states,” the plea said.

The petition, settled by advocate Prashant Bhushan, said there is a large number of migrant workers who wish to go back to their native villages, and this was evident from the sudden rush in the wake of the initial 21-days national lockdown announced on March 24, that led to uncontrollable chaos at various bus terminals.

“It is submitted that recently there have been media reports which show that migrant workers are protesting on streets in some places due to non-payment of their wages and demanding to return to their native villages. It is further submitted that there have been various media reports which show that the migrant workers are being harassed by the local residents and even beaten in some cases,” it said.

The petition said that although the national lockdown has been necessitated because of the unprecedented pandemic of COVID19 and its imposition is

much needed, it is submitted by the petitioners that the fundamental right of the migrant workers enshrined under Article 19(1)(d) (right to move freely throughout India) and Article 19(1 )(e) of the Constitution (right to reside and settle in any part of India) cannot be suspended for an indefinite period.

It said that these migrant workers cannot be forced to stay away from their families and living in unpredictable and arduous conditions, as the same is an unreasonable restriction beyond what is envisaged under Article 19(5) of the Constitution.

“Further, as this extension of lockdown is casting an unreasonable and heavier burden on the migrant workers who are stranded in cities of their migration as compared to those who are living with their own families at their own residences, the same is also violative of Article 14 of the Constitution of India,” it said.

The petition said that necessary transport services may be provided by the state governments in abundance so that the purpose of ‘social distancing’ is not defeated.

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 132 Dimapur, SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020

Misuse of social media

W

ith the advent of social media platformsFacebook, WhatsApp, Instragram, Twitter etc, the world of instant communication has become part of daily life. Social media today has already taken the world by storm and helped transform every facet of instant human communication. Social media links people across the world within an instant.

Indeed social media platforms today touch almost every aspect of life worldwide. Most people who have nothing do or who don’t want to do anything in life do it on social media. They are totally addicted to social media and spend hours on end twitting or posting photos, voice messages or video clips. All these for free and instantly so no wonder people across the globe prefer social media platforms to communicate.

However with the good also comes the bad. Social media can be likened to a SUV that is supposed to bring joy. However when the SUV is driven by an irresponsible drive, it can also bring grief. Social media likewise is being widely misused by users. Today, misuse of social media is like a virus that has gone out of control. The rising number of those indulging in character assassination by posting fake photos, writing half truths and comments has unfortunately grown.The brazenness of such users has only grown because of lack supervision by those global social media giants. These companies that run these social media platforms seem project they are incapable of controlling the powerful global tools they have built.

These global giants are responsible for the toxic digital waste of misinformation that floods these platforms.

When the world has recognised and accepted the reach and utility of social media, it is only right that they will have to fall in line with other legalised and registered media outlets. In this regard, the Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) and the Dimapur Police Commissionerate have taken a significant step in issuing strong warning to those who use social media platform to harass, hound and defame individuals or attempt to spark communal tension. The WSH has recognised how a useful tool, like a knife used in kitchens ,could be misused to injure people. Psychologists have also recognised the behavioural patterns of social media abusers as being unstable, lonely, highly opinionated, egoistic, narcissistic and driven to despair or even exhibiting suicidal tendencies. Today the pandemic virus in social media platforms is fake news and videos that inflame and incite people. Terrorists have also been abusing social media to the hilt and have posted clips of their brutal actions across the globe. Owing to the threat from social media because it is uncontrolled by the developers and too large for authorities to monitor, the Sri Lanka government last year decided to shut down access to Facebook, WhatsApp over fear of false reports. The police will have to do more than issue warning against abuse of social media. Even tribal bodies like WSH will do well to get other apex tribe organisations on board to tackle this dangerous menace posed by disturbed and demented minds.

Even use of indigenous tribal names have to be taken into account to prevent platforms from being used to throw dirt. Such persons need to be taught a lesson to prevent technology from being turned into cesspits of demented minds.

DailyDevotion Readiness

God called to him….And he said, “Here I am.”

—Exodus 3:4 When God speaks, many of us are like people in a fog, and we give no answer. Moses’ reply to God revealed that he knew where he was and that he was ready. Readiness means having a right relationship to God and having the knowledge of where we are.

We are so busy telling God where we would like to go. Yet the man or woman who is ready for God and His work is the one who receives the prize when the summons comes. We wait with the idea that some great opportunity or something sensational will be coming our way, and when it does come we are quick to cry out, “Here I am.” Whenever we sense that Jesus Christ is rising up to take authority over some great task, we are there, but we are not ready for some obscure duty.

Readiness for God means that we are prepared to do the smallest thing or the largest thing— it makes no difference. It means we have no choice in what we want to do, but that whatever God’s plans may be, we are there and ready. Whenever any duty presents itself, we hear God’s voice as our Lord heard His Father’s voice, and we are ready for it with the total readiness of our love for Him. Jesus Christ expects to do with us just as His Father did with Him. He can put us wherever He wants, in pleasant duties or in menial ones, because our union with Him is the same as His union with the Father. “…that they may be one just as We are one…” (John 17:22).

Be ready for the sudden surprise visits of God. A ready person never needs to get ready— he is ready.

Think of the time we waste trying to get ready once God has called! The burning bush is a symbol of everything that surrounds the person who is ready, and it is on fire with the presence of God Himself.

Quotes

Better remain silent, better not even think, if you are not prepared to act. ~ Annie Besant

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020

Post-mortem

Paradox: To prioritize hunger or COVID-19

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o r o n av i r u s h a s pushed people across the world to enormous difficulties. Prior to the pandemic those with moneys went to different places within or outside for businesses or on tours or sent their children for studies or for work within the country or overseas are now stranded due to the stupendous speed at which coronavirus is spreading killing or infecting. COVID-19 has pushed the nation-states to enforce lockdown across the globe and no one knows or even predict when the lockdowns be lifted so that those stranded could go back to their places.

Lockdowns keep extending because leaders have come to their senses that they cannot play with COVID-19, as it is bulldozing everything and totally neutralizing in devastative ways such as economic, military and political and cumulative strengths of comity of nations have had.

It has made leaders such as Trump to engage in blame game; forcing others to get involved in issuing dos and don’ts. Global economy has touched the lowest sub-zero levels hitting the rock bottom and to recover from the current slump it would take some years

or even some decades..

Unemployment and joblessness keep increasing at alarming heights right across the world.

For any society to survive it should engage in production and distribution.

To translate the production and distribution processes, machineries, human labor and other paraphernalia are important. For humans to live and survive, employment is the most important component. For the past 50 days entire world is in lockdown. Everything is brought to naught—by ways of total lockdown. No one expected such drastic steps because of the velocity of the pandemic. Many are stupefied and keep wondering what would happen to them and their families next moment. Everyone is in quandary and in a state of shock.

Ever yone lives in nightmares. In the unpredictable and volatile scenario, low-and-middleincome countries have decided that they can’t afford an all-out fight. As expected, Brazil’s president responding to the current pandemic uttered that “we’re all going to die one day” by inferring whether now or later, it’s not a big deal. While measuring the “moderate” and “severe”

lockdowns, a recent study

by UBS, the Swiss bank found 1 to 10 mobility restrictiveness scores, India is the only country in the world ranked by UBS @ 10. In such a scenario, “full lockdown will only lead to more hunger, starvation and death” says Luhut Pandaitan, a senior minister in Indonesia The world has witnessed recession before, but this one is confronting the emerging countries with unique challenges. Developing countries like India is trapped because money saved thus far is being spent on the recession triggering a collapse in the currency and in many cases leading to a financial crisis. The tragedy is that the emerging nations like India have little choice because they cannot afford to sustain a large population of semi-skilled and un-skilled workforce in the informal sectors. The number is big stretching to millions and in terms of percentage more than 90 per cent of the total work force of the country.

Given the situation, lockdowns stretching to more than 40 days or so will definitely inflict severe pain on people like India, especially those in the informal sectors who can afford only a limited war to

live through the pandemic.

Most of the migrant workers engaged in informal sectors in India are scattered and now due to COVID-19 stranded and have already spent their saving in the last few weeks. The state gover nments and GOI may be distributing relief materials and cash to them.

How many of them have received the provisions and paltry doles? How long would that last? Thousands and lakhs of migrant laborers are stranded in different parts of country.

They all would like to get back to their homes.

As PM Modi announced the extension of the nation-wide lockdown exhorting the people of India to follow the seven commands, a clipping went viral where a man is seen collecting milk spilled on the road by a huge milk container along with a group of stray dogs. This unbearable moving incident that should shame every Indian happened six kilometers away from Agra which boasts of having the seventh heritage site— Taj Mahal. Extending the lockdowns has infuriated them more because they say “hunger will kill before the coronavirus”.

As soon as PM Modi completed his address to

Clarification from a concerned citizen

O

n the Morning of April 13, 2020, when the news an infected person with Corona Positive spread like wild fire through social media across the state, a friend of mine with my own consent, put up in social media about my quarantine at a Govt. Center for Public Awareness. The intention was to encourage all who came in contact with the victim, specially from my own community, to contact the Health Authorities in the best interest of their family, the neighborhood, the society and people in general owing to one’s social responsibility, which instead backfired- posing me as a very negative and negligent person in performing my social responsibility.

I would now like to clarify in the best interest of upholding our social responsibility that I arrived at Dimapur on 23rd March, 2020 by Indigo flight from Delhi, just after the lockdown was announced and I voluntarily confined myself at my residence without any direction from any authority as such. On 31st March, after the outbreak of the Nizammudin gathering news, a list of around 500 people from North Eastgot circulated in the social media wheremy name had appearedfor being present in that area on 21st March which was because my vehicle had crossed

the region on that date.

Eventually, I received a call on 1st April from the Govt.

Health Officer to appear at their office at 11 AM on 2nd April, 2020 to which I sincerely complied. I found some other members whose names had appeared in the list were also present at the office.

As some of them had already crossed the duration of 14-15 days, they were checked and sent back in front of me.

Since my arrival had completed only 12 days on 2nd April, I was advised to get tested and to be Quarantined for another 2 days at the Govt. facility. Consequently, I will be sent home if the result of the test will be negative,or else further course of action will be decided in case of positive result, to which I sincerely agreed.

My test results arrived from Dibrugarh on the morning of 4th April and declared me Corona Negative. Hence, I was asked to go home since the test was negative and also my period of arrival from Nizammudin area had completed 14 days- which had been the basis on which I was asked to get tested. I further kept the test results confined to my family without making any hype, as any other like-minded citizens did in that list.

Only on 13th April, after the outbreak of the first Corona case,

my friends had asked my permission to publish my quarantine certificate to encourage others to do the same in the best interest of the society. I also found it very reasonable for the benefit of the society and allowed to reveal my test certificates, especially to encourage the Marwari Community to come forward and get tested and to tell them that the stay in State run Quarantine Homes are quite comfortable. Later, when a controversy erupted and started making rounds, we came to know that due to clerical errors, the admission date of 2nd April was mentioned as the Arrival date, which was impossible in the lockdown. And perceiving the arrival date as 2nd April, I was directed for another 14 days Quarantine for the second time which I over-looked since I simply saw the Negative Result in the certificate, kept it at my home and joined my regular activities.

While, as per Govt. directives, I request other citizens also who were in that list not to reveal their Test Report or invitation from the authorities, I also request all the concerned people to over look the clerical errors of my certificate. I also express my gratitude to those who are socially concerned in Public Interest.

Basu Damani, Dimapur

The better time to learn lessons

(From previous issue) Because of the most corrupt system of elections in Nagaland, we failed to establish even a single virological laboratory during the last 57 years. The citizens of Nagaland are usually defeated spiritually and morally during the elections under the weight of sheer greed for easy money, barring those few honest ones, and we used to be in hallucinated heaven in which such basic medical facilities are not considered useful hoping that no evil challenge can ever befall Nagaland so long as our votes could fetch money. Those of us who used to be under the greed spell during the time of elections used to prefer Nagaland to be without proper medical facilities, educational facilities, proper roads, etc. for temporal benefits. I am not exonerating the concerned authorities who equally remained myopic and miserably failed to develop such requisite assets for the State despite having all

the opportunities. Yet, basically, we, the dishonest voters, are responsible for the retrogression of Nagaland.

Look at the pathetic situation in Nagaland in the face of the pandemic threat of COVID19. To keep Nagaland safe from the most dangerous disease of our time, the Health Department is struggling to send suspected samples to laboratories belonging to our neighbours as we do not have a single laboratory.

And when the infection rate is on the verge of peaking in the country, the Health Department of Nagaland is divulging its contemplation of establishing one or two laboratories in Nagaland. If the unscrupulous voters have the habit of being submerged under hallucinated heaven during elections, the responsible authorities too have the same state of mind as though Nagaland is insulated under Art 371(A) from threat of natural calamities and thus such basic facilities were not

established. While we remained casual, the disease has overtaken us.

Nevertheless, something better is definitely better than nothing.

Similarly, the testing laboratories which the State Govt. Contemplates to establish at the moment are better than Nagaland remaining to be the parasite to our neighbour States. The equipments for the proposed Bio Safety Level-3 (BSL) at Kohima are reportedly brought. The establishment of the BSL-2 in Dimapur has to be expedited without delay. Meanwhile, as some of the bureaucrats too shared their concern that such laboratories must be developed according to international specifications, the quality of the asset should never be compromised due to percentage cut. If the State Govt. cannot ensure development of quality laboratory, we better not waste the funds and risk the lives of the people.

(Concluded) Z. Lohe

the nation on the 14th of April, 2020, protests broke out in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Surratt with hundreds of migrant workers occupying the roads demanding that they be sent back to their native states. In Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu migrants took to desperate measures like walking on railway tracks or attempting to travel hundreds of kilometers on bikes to get back to their home states before they were stopped by the administration.

In such a context, leaders, policy makers, bureaucrats and others enforcing agencies are caught in a paradox: whether to dismantle the lockdown in parts or in full where there are not hot spots or to continue the lock down.

No one is definitive about exit of COVID-19. The pandemic may last for few months or little longer and so with the total lockdown of economic activity would certainly suffer be it people or a society or a nation or even the world. We are in unchartered waters and hardly know anything about this pandemic. We now live in a world of paradox. We are caught between human life and hunger.

Hunger and human life are intertwined. Mil-

lions of workforce in India works in informal sectors and are currently without jobs and now live in hunger and poverty. If hunger and joblessness—two sides of the same coin continue to persist they would automatically lead to death.

If they lose their jobs automatically hunger grips them because these two are closely linked realities.

Those who became victims of coronavirus happened to be from those settings and so live in poverty and hunger; domiciled in polluted and cramped locations. PM Modi 1.0 and 2.0 addresses have failed to highlight the action plans. Without any foresight and proper planning the lockdown has been announced.

The leadership and the administration (GOI) should have planned strategies and moved the workforce and others who are in different locations with some advanced notices explaining about the need and necessity of the lockdown. GOI is in paradox, but should balance both in such ways by working out strategies, because poverty, hunger and social isolation would undoubtedly unleash social unrest, if they are not addressed.

Dr. John Mohan Razu

nCOVID-19: Strive for solutions not panicorders

A

lot of panic, confusion is being seen over the past few weeks among the whole citizen of Nagaland through social medias and newspapers about Corona virus. The group of citizen most affected as per my personal opinion being the Healthcare staff both from the virus and the community.

Prevention is better than cure: nCOVID-19 cannot be stopped at the moment and that’s the universal truth. But it can be controlled as we are doing it now through social distancing, lockdown, wearing mask, maintaining hygiene etc. and if we don’t control the infection, then it will only lead to a sudden influx of infected people into hospitals and we all know how better equipped our State is with regard to healthcare facilities.

In case of an outbreak, with the current population of our State/ district how many infected people can be given treatment at hospitals and how many underprivileged should stay home battling the virus with their God given immune system.

Not every young person will have super immune system. Some will require the help of medicines to boost their immune system also, otherwise, patient with mild case may turn serious requiring hospitalization and increasing mortality rate too.

Therefore, we should not focus on mortality rate alone but also consider the infection rate and the healthcare facilities available with us. We should learn from the case of developed countries struggling with their healthcare facilities overwhelmed by the number of infections.

Restriction on hospital staff from going to workplace by the

community: The step taken is for the greater good but the concept should be practical.

If hospital shuts down, we all know its consequences. Therefore, everyone as stakeholders should work together for a solution.

The community should understand that restricting healthcare workers completely will not ensure infection free zone for themselves, and the Hospitals being a high risk area for infection should also understand the pulse of the community. Till date, since we have only one known positive case in Nagaland, it is the right time for both side to take a lead and help each other by sharing its knowledge, capacities, facilities, fear and work upon a solution through open communication and not direct orders.

I believe this will then create a better positive understanding and more fruitful outcome could be achieved to survive this pandemic smoothly.

There are numerous other issues resulting from this nCOVID19 pandemic, but there is always a solution for any problem. And that solution cannot be dictated from one side because this time, it is affecting all sides. Controlling this pandemic requires not only concern field experts, specialized skills and facilities but also administrative and most importantly the community support. Therefore, understanding each other issues and developing solutions together, will lead to a better understanding and produce more fruitful outcomes, as this pandemic in worst case scenario may not disappear soon.

Pelezoto Pius Kikhi, Kirha Village, Dimapur

Reader’s Post

Sir,

Treat frontline workers with respect

In India, health care workers were pelted with stones and were chased away from a locality and in another incident, police were attacked by miscreants. The country is also reporting cases of doctors, and other health care professionals, on the battle frontline are being shunned by others for fear of being infected.

COVID-19 has proven that India’s biggest problem is not illiteracy but stupidity of literate people. It is sad and disappointing that as India’s battle against the virus rages on, the country has been dealing with violence against our frontline soldiers.

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

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020

Police files case on leak of Bethany hospital patient list

File photo of Bethany Hospital.

SHILLONG, APR 18 (PTI): The Meghalaya police on Saturday said it has registered a case on the leak of the list of patients who were admitted at Bethany Hospital here since March 22.

Dr John L Sailo, the first person to test positive for COVID-19 in the state on April 13 was the owner of the Bethany Hospital.

After Sailo tested positive the hospital was turned into a quarantine centre and all the patients and staff were told to stay in the medical facility.

On April 16 a file con-

Manipur’s 2nd COVID-19 patient tests negative Correspondent IMPHAL, Apr 18: The latest test of the second COVID-19 patient of Manipur, a 65-year-old man currently undergoing treatment at RIMS hospital, Imphal turned out negative on Saturday.

“He is likely to be discharged soon, if the next test result is negative,” an official release of the COVID-19 Common Control Room of Manipur government informed.

The second COVID19 patient who hails from Lilong area of Thoubal district had participated in the Tablighi Jamaat congregation at Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi. He tested positive for the virus after returning to Imphal.

The official release said that the swab sample of the patient, currently treated at RIMS hospital, was tested today at VRDLs of RIMS and JNIMS and the results confirmed his COVID-19 negative status.

taining 114 pages of the list of patients who were admitted at Bethany Hospital was leaked and went viral in the social media, the police said.

“On receiving the information, police team forthwith verified the information and a case has been registered vide cyber crime wing PS... ,” Asst Inspector General of Police Gabriel Iangrai said.

He warned that legal action would be taken if anyone reposts or share the messages in social media.

At present, all the pa-

tients of Bethany Hospital since March 22 have been tracked even as 10 persons including eight family members of Dr Sailo and two housemaids have tested positive for COVID-19.

Eight persons, including Dr Sailo’s wife, have contracted the virus and they are stable, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said.

He said the two housemaids are admitted at the COVID- 19 hospital here while the family members of Dr Sailo are under home observation.

Locals protest against non-distribution NFSA rice

Correspondent

IMPHAL, Apr 18: Locals in Manipur’s Imphal East district defied curfew and staged a sit-in-protest to highlight their plights when they were allegedly deprived of rice under National Food Security Act (NFSA) for months.

Locals of Top Khongnangkhong under Khurai Assembly constituency alleged that they have not been receiving rice under NFSA November 2019.

They further alleged not receiving rice which the state chief minister announced would be distributed free of cost during the first phase of 21-day-long lockdown.

Chief minister N Biren Singh had promised distribution of 20 kg of rice free of cost to each and every family of five members living under one roof at the rate of four kg per member.

The locals alleged that the same was yet to be distributed in their area till date and no one except

a social activist distributed three kg of rice distributed free of cost out of his own expense.

A local woman leader participating in the protest alleged that before November last year, they received subsidised rate rice but not the exact quantity which can be received by a beneficiary.

They have been remaining silence thinking that the local MLA will one day arrange to make available the quota of rice for them.

The MLA has however failed to do so even after the first phase of lockdown has passed.

With lockdown affecting income and rice not available in the open market, daily wagers were at the threshold of their woes, she lamented.

The locals taking part in the protest warned of boycotting their local MLA (L Susildro of the ruling BJP) if he failed to intervene and ensure distribution of rice at the earliest.

Manipur releases 69 prisoners to decongest jails Correspondent IMPHAL, Apr 18: Jail authorities in Manipur released 58 prisoners on Saturday including a convict to take the total number of prisoners released in the state so far in the wake of COVID-19 to 69.

Earlier, 11 prisoners were release on parole from the Central Jail, Imphal on April 16.

Sixty-nine prisoners including a convict were released to decongest jails in Manipur in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, an official source said today.

Of the 69 prisoners, 64 were released from Sajiwa Jail while the remaining five from Central Jail, Imphal. They were released in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives, an official source said.

They were released on interim bail/parole for three months by the concerned courts of Manipur on the recommendation of the High Powered Committee headed by Justice Kh Nobin Singh as chairman.

The committee was constituted by Manipur

government to decongest the prisons in the state in view of the outbreak of corona virus in the country.

State chief secretary Dr J Suresh Babu is the secretary and additional DGP (prisons) P Doungel is the member of the committee.

The released prisoners were transported and dropped to their respective residences by the concerned district police in view of the present lockdown and curfew in the state, the source added.

Of the two jails in the state, Sajiwa Central Jail has a capacity of housing 845 prisoners while Imphal Central Jail has a capacity of housing 250 prisoners.

Official sources said that currently 790 prisoners are lodged at Sajiwa Jail and 50 prisoners were lodged at Central Jail.

Since the outbreak of the pandemic in the country, prisoners in the jails were screened for symptoms typical of flu, fever etc and no new prisoner was introduced in the jails without medical screening.

Migrants in Maram receive food grains

Food relief distributed to migrant workers in Senapati.

SENAPATI, APR 18: Migrants labourers and daily wagers from outside the state who have been earning their livelihood at Maram local markets and making it their home since years along with other new labourers engaged for construction of houses, roads and ongoing high power tension workers at Maram locality but stranded due to the national lockdown, have been provided food items by ADC Senapati in collaboration with Northen Maram People’s

Organization ( NMPO) & Northern Maram Students’ and Youths’ Organization ( NMSYO) on Saturday.

A press release by Northern Maram Students And Youths Organization (NMSYO) publicity Pungdi P. Celestine stated that the 210 migrants labourers who received food items were mostly from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. 5 kgs of rice and 2kgs potatoes per labourer were distributed as a temporary relief.

The fellow migrants

were urged not to panic but stay indoor wherever, not to loiter around in groups. Further, the labourers were advised to approach NMPO & NMSYO officials in the event of any harassment or humiliation meted out to them by the locals, even as the local people will try to explore how they can extended further possible help.

The Northern Maram People thanked ADC Senapati led by its Chiarman, Kapani for the food distribution gesture.

recover from COVIDMizoram reverses decision to resume 219more in Assam, total 11 cured class 12 board exams amid lockdown

Aizawl, Apr 18 (PTI): The Mizoram Board of School Education (MBSE) has reversed its decision to resume class 12 board examinations, suspended in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, following an appeal by the Centre to do so.

The decision to postpone the Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC) examinations till further orders was taken during a meeting of the MBSE officials held on Friday evening, a notification issued by the Board said.

The decision was taken following an appeal by the central government to put on hold the examination due to the lockdown imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus, it said.

“The rescheduled class 12 board examinations for the remaining subjects in Arts, Science and Commerce streams have been postponed till further orders.

“The MBSE has sought an apology from all the students and stakeholders for the inconvenience as the Centre’s appeal has to be respected,” the notification said.

It said the Board had initially decided to resume the suspended examinations to ease the students’ inconvenience as Mizoram at this point of time is believed to be “more or less free from coronavirus” as no new cases have been reported and most of the persons placed under quarantine have completed their isolation period.

A 50-year-old pastor from Mizoram, who had travelled to the Netherlands, is the lone COVID-19 patient in the state.

Of the 769 persons who were placed under quarantine, 588 have completed their isolation period and were discharged while 177 are still in the quarantine facilities at present, Health officials said.

The MBSE, in a notification issued on Tuesday, said class 12 board examinations for the remaining subjects will be held from April 22 to 24.

NSF flays harassment of migrant labourers DIMAPUR: Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) Saturday condemned the alleged harassment meted out to poor migrant labourers by “certain mischievous elements from within Naga family”, the video of which was circulated widely on social media platforms.

In a press release, NSF president Ninoto Awomi and assistant general secretary Supuni Ng Philo stated that the federation was appalled at the “insensitivity” of the individuals involved in such ludicrous acts. NSF stated that “Naga society is not one which promotes discrimination on communal and racial Daklane Youth Organization (DYO) and Daklane Panchayat members distributed rice line as the principle of equity and justice and other essential commodities to more than 300 daily wage earners in the colony has been the basic ethos” since time imwhich was provided from COVID-19 relief distribution camp, Kohima on April 18. memorial.

NSF, therefore, has appealed to the Naga public to exercise outmost restraint in their dealings with fellow beings and not resort to acts that would portray “our society in bad light in the eyes of the world beyond us”. Further, the NSF appealed to the responsible authorities to take cognizance of such acts and ensure that strict action was initiated against the perpetrators of such unwanted act.

IDA Wokha unit condemns assault on doctor DIMAPUR: Indian Dental Association (IDA) Wokha unit expressed shock at the assault of yet another doctor by police on duty at Wokha town on April 17. IDA Wokha unit members have condemned the physical assault upon a medical Meriema Village Women Society (MVWS) seized 235 cases of liquor on April 13 and fraternity. It has therefore appealed condestroyed it. Society has warned residents and outsiders that it would maintain cerned authorities to take serious note and action on the personnel responsible. strict vigilance in its jurisdiction in regard to these illegal activities.

K Y M C

5

Northeast/state

The Board notification was confirmed by Education Minister Lalchhandama on Wednesday.

The board examinations will resume in view of the hardships faced by the students.

The issue was discussed by the cabinet and during a meeting of all political parties, NGOs and student bodies, which recommended the resumption of the examinations, the minister had said.

Around 4,700 students are yet to complete their board examinations.

The decision sparked an agitation from a section of students, who launched a ‘no exam’ campaign on social media on Thursday.

The students argued that many of the examinees who have left the state and several others who are in their villages will face problems in reaching the examination centres due to the lockdown.

They also accused the state government of backtracking from its earlier decision to resume the board examination only after lockdown is lifted and normalcy returns to the state.

GUWAHATI, APR 18 (PTI): Two more COVID-19 patients were discharged from a hospital on Saturday, taking the total number of persons cured of the disease to 11 in Assam, out of 34 people who have tested positive for novel coronavirus in the state so far, Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

The two persons were released from Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital here after results of “their four successive tests came as negative”, he said.

They will spend the next 14 days under home quarantine as a precautionary measure, the minister.

Apart from the two, Golaghat Civil Hospital had discharged four, Goalpara Civil Hospital three and Sonapur District Hospital two.

Currently, 22 patients from Assam and another person from Nagaland are undergoing treatment in the state.

One person died of the disease in Assam.

Of the total 34 cases reported in Assam, 33 are related to the Tablighi Jamaat event at Nizamuddin in New Delhi.

Golaghat with nine patients, Morigaon with six and Dhubri, Goalpara and Nalbari with four patients each have been identified as the five hotspot districts of Assam.

The other districts with positive patients are two from Silchar and one each from Kamrup (Metro), Kamrup, Hailakandi, Lakhimpur and South Salmara.

Arunachal Pradesh faces shortage of vegetables amid lockdown

Itanagar, Apr 18 (PTI): The state agriculture department has advised the deputy commissioners of alldistricts in Arunachal Pradesh to review the functioning of the Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) to deal with a shortage of vegetables in the markets amid the nationwide lockdown.

In a letter to the deputy commissioners, Agriculture and Horticulture Secretary Bidol Tayeng said shipments of vegetables from Assam have either been stopped or are not coming in due to lack of transportation, leading to a general shortage in the state. He said that while the situation in most districts is “manageable” as vegetables from rural areas are finding their markets in the district towns, the situation in the state capital is “acute”. Tayeng asked the DCs,

who are also the chairpersons of the APMCs in their districts, to review the situation.

The APMCs have already been directed to identify the surplus pockets in the district and distribute the surplus within the deficit pockets in the district. If there are more surplus, the concerned district APMC can also dispatch the same to the state capital through APMC by following certain protocols, the letter said.

Additionally, there is about 100 metric tonne of potatoes in cold storage in Banderdewa and Papum Pare, the letter stated. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) Okit Palling has been nominated as the state nodal officer to coordinate with all the APMCs.

NCSUDD asks government to earmark fund

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Contractors and Suppliers Union Dimapur District (NCSUDD) has pointed out that the government should earmark some fund for procurement of essential commodities apart from normal sanction by the department.

NCSUDD president Hotoshe Chophy and general secretary A. Tureng in a press release has asked the concerned department to judiciously make use of the free essentials distributed to the citizens as per commitment by central government. Union also stressed on the need for transparency in supply and distribution of essential commodities and said that it will stand as a watchdog so discrepancy does not arise from both ends. While stating that the ongoing renovation of the Dimapur COVID-19 Hospital and inadequate personal protection equipments for health workers were not good signs of readiness, the NCSUDD urged the concerned agency to complete the task before it was too late. NCSUDD further appealed citizens to cooper36 Assam Rifles Jalukie extended their support to the people of Peren ate with the authorities and district by fumigating the designated COVID-19 Hospital and Control Room to follow the guidelines of at CHC Jalukie on April 17 and quarantine centre JNV Jalukie on April 18. lockdown.

K Y M C

6

international/sports

Matterhorn lights up with Indian tricolour

Matterhorn mountain in the Swiss Alps.

New Delhi/Dhaka, April 18 (IANS): Thousands of people on Saturday defied the countrywide lockdown to attend the funeral of a Muslim cleric in Bangladesh, triggering fears of rapid spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

The news media in Bangladesh reported that thousands of people, without masks and in clear violations of social distancing, participated in the funeral prayers of Khelafat Majlish’s ‘Nayeb-e Amir’ Maulana Zubayer Ahmad Ansari, held at a madrasa in Bertola village under Sorail Upazila of Brahmanbaria district. The cleric had passed away at his home last night.

The gathering was so large that the authorities did not bother to stop it, media reports said.

Noted Bangladeshi author who lives in exile in Sweden, Taslima Nasreen tweeted that 50,000 people had attended the funeral prayers, defying the ban on mass gatherings during the lockdown. “Stupid government didn’t even try to stop these stupid people,” she tweeted.

At least 20 Afghan presidential palace staff test positive for coronavirus KABUL, APR 18 (AGENCIES): At least 20 officials working at Afghan President Ashraf Ghani’s palace have tested positive for coronavirus, prompting the 70-year-old leader to limit most of his contact with staff to digital communication, government sources said on Saturday.

An official document delivered to the Presidential Palace in Kabul is thought to have infected staff, many of whom began feeling unwell and were tested earlier this month, according to a senior health official.

“A contaminated document was sent to an office inside the palace from another government department and that’s how the employees were infected,” the official told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“Some of the employees were still working in their offices when the results came out, and we had to quarantine them and their families, but the numbers could be higher,” the official added.

Sediq Sediqqi, Ghani’s spokesman, said the Civil Service Commission has already asked government employees to stay at home

A health worker takes a selfie during the inauguration of a 200 beds temporary health facility in Kabul Afghanistan (Reuters)

before the tests were conducted and that order has been extended for another three weeks.

A government source told Reuters that Ghani, who in the past has said he suffers from health issues related to his stomach, has limited contact with staff, conducting most meetings through video conference calls and meeting only a handful in his inner circle in person.

COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavir us has been known to disproportionately affect older people and result in much higher mortality rates within that

demographic.

Afghanistan - already battling shortages of food and medicine while violent clashes with the Taliban continue - had recorded 933 positive cases of coronavirus as of Saturday.

Thirty people have died of the virus but health officials say the number of cases are likely to be much higher than reported due to limited testing.

The Afghan health ministry has warned that unless containment measures are improved throughout the war-torn country, Afghanistan is heading for a catastrophe and millions would be infected.

Quake hits off islands south of Tokyo; no tsunami

TOKYO, APR 18 (AP): A strong earthquake shook a Japanese island chain in the Pacific Ocean south of Tokyo on Saturday, but there was no danger of a tsunami and there were no reports of damage or injuries.

The magnitude 6.9 quake Saturday evening occurred in the Pacific Ocean west of the Ogasawara island chain, at a location about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) south of Tokyo, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. The agency said the quake, whose epicenter was very deep at 450 kilometers (280 miles) below the sea surface, posed no danger of a tsunami.

Spain COVID-19: over 20,000 dead

Bern, April 18 (IANS): A more than 1,000-metre high Indian tricolour was projected onto the Matterhorn mountain in the Swiss Alps “to express Solidarity to all Indians in the fight against COVID-19”.

In a tweet, the Embassy of India to Switzerland, The Holy See & Liechtenstein, said on Friday night: “INDIAN TRICOLOR ON THE MATTERHORN MOUN-

TAIN: Indian Tricolor of more than 1,000 metre in size projected on Matterhorn Mountain, Zermatt, Switzerland to express Solidarity to all Indians in the fight against COVID 19.

“A big Thank You to @zermatt_tourism for the gesture. @MEAIndia.”

The mission also attached a picture of the mountain along with the post.

On Saturday morn-

‘US decision to halt WHO funding irresponsible’

Top 4 to qualify for Champions League Mercedes F1 boss Wolff takes a stake in Aston Martin if season is abandoned, says RFEF

M O S C OW, A P R 1 8 (IANS): The decision of US President Donald Trump to suspend funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) is “counterproductive and irresponsible”, the Russian Foreign Ministry has said.

“We consider Washington’s decision to suspend contributions to the WHO’s budget and its attempts to blame the WHO for what is happening in the US counterproductive and irresponsible,” the ministry’s spokesperson Maria Zakharova said at a news briefing on Friday, Xinhua reported.

She added that accusations against the WHO of passivity, opacity and maliciousness are completely groundless.

Zakharova noted that the WHO at all stages of the development of the COVID-19 pandemic acted within its mandate and on the basis of scientific data.

M A D R I D, A P R 1 8 (IANS): The Spanish Football Association (RFEF) has made it clear that if the current La Liga season is cut short or abandoned due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the four teams on top of the most recent completed round of standings will qualify for next seasons Champions League.

All teams had played 27 matches each before RFEF suspended play on March 12 due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Sevilla and Real Sociedad are the four teams currently in the standings and if no further action is possible this season, they will go through to Champions League.

“The RFEF wants to have done its homework in case, in the event of a suspension of competitions, it receives the request from UEFA regarding the

ing, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi retweeted the post, saying: “The world is fighting COVID19 together. Humanity will surely overcome this pandemic.”

The total number of coronavirus cases in India on Saturday increased to 14,378 with 11,906 active cases, while the death toll stood at 480, according to the Union Health Ministry.

Thousands defy lockdown for funeral of cleric

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020

Top 4 to qualify for Champions League if season is abandoned, says RFEF.

Spanish clubs that would have access to European competitions next season,” RFEF general secretary Andreu Camps said in a statement. “Thus ... it has been agreed in the RFEF Delegate Commission to make a plan in order to give certainty in an extreme scenario, such as not being

able to finish the competitions, so that all the clubs know the new scenario they are facing,” he added.

Barcelona are currently at the top of the table with 58 points, two ahead of Real Madrid. Sevilla are third on 47, with Real Sociedad a point further back in fourth.

L O N D O N, A P R 1 8 (AGENCIES): Mercedes Formula One boss Toto Wolff has taken a stake in British sportscar maker Aston Martin, whose executive chairman Lawrence Stroll runs the Racing Point F1 team, according to company filings.

A Mercedes F1 spokesman said Wolff ’s move was purely an investment on the Austrian’s part and would be diluted by a rights issue on Monday from 4.77% to less than 1%.

“Fully diluted following the pending rights issue, this investment will represent a 0.95% stake in the company,” he added.

“It is a financial investment and Toto’s partnership and executive role with Mercedes are unaffected by the transaction.”

Swiss billionaire Ernesto Bertarelli has also bought a 3.38% stake which will be similarly diluted. Wolff previously had a 16% shareholding

Will cherish winning IPL in 2016 for rest of my life: Warner

NEW DELHI, APR 18 (IANS): Swashbuckling Australia opening batsman considers winning the 2016 IPL title for Sunrisers Hyderabad as his favourite Indian Premier League (IPL) memory.

Warner-led SRH had Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the final to win the title for the first time in IPL history. “My favourite IPL memory is when we won the IPL in 2016. We had a very good tournament, the best thing was we won a lot of close games, it helped in developing a sense of belief within the side.

A lot of credit goes to our coaches and mentors at that time,” David Warner said in the video posted by the Hyderabad-based franchise.

“We came up against

RCB in Bangalore in the finals, we knew how well Virat Kohli went in that edition, he scored 900 odd runs in the finals, it was about backing ourselves, we won the toss and elected to bat first, I felt like a team our best attribute was defending the totals,” he added. In the 2016 final played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on May 29, SRH posted 208/7, riding on a brilliant 69 from their skipper Warner against RCB. Australia’s Ben Cutting also played a terrific cameo towards the end scoring 39 off just 15 balls. The Virat Kohli-led side, despite half centuries from their skipper and Chris Gayle, fell short of the target by just eight runs. Kohli scored 54 while Gayle scored 76 but their efforts went in vain.

David Warner

“We managed to do that, Ben Cutting I think scored 28 runs off the final over, my heart was in my mouth when Virat and Gayle were going all guns blazing. But we got quick wickets and we went on to win

the final, it is one thing I will cherish for the rest of my life,” Warner said.

The 13th edition of the IPL stands indefinitely suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Doctors criticise UK govt over coronavirus protection shortages LONDON, APR 18 (AGENCIES): Doctors and health workers criticised the British government on Saturday for suggesting that gowns used to protect them while treating coronavirus patients could be re-used, as supplies run low across the country.

Britain is at or near the peak of an outbreak of the coronavirus in which more than 14,000 people have already died - the fifth highest national death toll of a pandemic linked to at least 150,000 deaths worldwide.

On Friday the government issued new guidance to hospitals, setting out that alternatives to fluid-repellent full length gowns may need to be used, including reusable gowns or even long sleeved laboratory coats.

“This guidance is a further admission of the dire situation that some doctors and healthcare workers continue to find themselves in because of government failings,” said Rob Harwood, Consultants Committee chairman at the British Medical Association - the trade union for doctors. “If

it’s being proposed that staff reuse equipment, this must be demonstrably driven by science and the best evidence – rather than availability – and it absolutely cannot compromise the protection of healthcare workers.”

Britain’s response to the coronavirus outbreak - which has lagged that of European peers - is a source of increasing political criticism for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who himself contracted the virus and is now recovering from a spell in intensive care.

Toto Wolff

in former champions Williams but sold that after he joined the Mercedes team, where he serves as principal and owns 30%.

Canadian billionaire Stroll, whose son Lance drives for Racing Point alongside Mexican Sergio Perez, is close to Wolff.

The Silverstone-based team — to be renamed Aston Martin next year — use Mercedes engines and gearboxes.

NBA players to receive 25% less pay from May 15 LOS ANGELES, APR 18 (AGENCIES): The NBA has reached an agreement with the National Basketball Players Association to withhold 25% of each player’s salary from May 15 due to the shutdown of the sport because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The deal would provide a gradual reduction in player salaries in case a “force majeure” event, such as the pandemic, wipes out the rest of the regular season.

The money will be placed in escrow and paid back to players if all of the remaining regular season games are played, ESPN reported.

If only part of the season can be played, the amount paid out would be on a pro rata basis based on the number of games completed.

The salary reductions will continue through the first two months of the 2020-21 NBA season, ESPN said.

The NBA has not held a game since March 11 and it is unclear when it might return to action.

Mercedes-Benz’s parent Daimler also has a small stake in Aston Martin.

“It’s clear that Aston are now Mercedes’ B team,” the Daily Mail quoted one Formula One insider as saying.

Wolff ’s future at Mercedes has been the subject of some media speculation, with the 48-year-old linked variously to senior management roles with

MADRID, APR 18 (AFP): The death toll from the coronavirus in Spain, one of the countries hardest hit by the pandemic, moved past 20,000 on Saturday, the health ministry said.

A total of 20,043 people have now succumbed to the disease, which killed 565 people in Spain in the past 24 hours, slightly down on the 585 reported on Friday.

Liberty Media-owned Formula One and at Aston Martin.

His Aston Mar tin shares were bought from Yew Tree Overseas Limited, a vehicle controlled

by Stroll who acquired a roughly 25% percent holding in Aston Martin with a consortium of investors.

Mercedes have won the past six Formula One drivers’ and constructors’ titles but have six times world champion Lewis Hamilton out of contract at the end of the 2020 season, which has yet to start due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hamilton, who has also been linked to Ferrari, had told reporters before the global crisis changed the sporting and financial landscape that his decision would depend on Wolff ’s plans.

The Briton is now expected to stay at Mercedes, with a radical overhaul of Formula One’s sporting and technical regulations postponed to 2022.

‘Since my debut, my team mates wants me to score’

NEW DELHI, APR 18 world among active players, next (IANS): India football only to star Porcaptain Sunil Chhetri has tuguese striker revealed that ever since Cristiano Ronhe made his debut for the aldo. national team, everyone The Indian in in the team wants him captain also to score. said that during Chhetri made his the early playinternational debut in ing days, he was 2005 in a match against under so much Pakistan having the likes pressure while of Bhutia and Renedy playing in KolSingh in the team. kata that he cried “Since the first time Sunil Chhetri many times. when I played against Chhetri, at the age of 17, had Pakistan in Pakistan on my debut to now, everyone in the team his first professional contract with wants me to score,” Chhetri was Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan.

“The first year was good. I quoted as saying by indiansuperused to get 20 minutes or 30 minleague.com.

“There was no comparison utes game time in matches and whatsoever and thankfully Bhaic- people used to tag me next Bhaichung Bhutia and what not. But hung bhai was in my team at that football in Kolkata teaches you time. People like Bhaichung, very quickly,” Chhetri said.

Mahesh Gawli, Deepak Mondal, He said that losing is not an Renedy Singh, Samir Naik, Sur- option in Kolkata as the crowd is kumar Singh, Climax Lawrence very passionate about the sport. were in the national team back “The crowd turns hostile then and they were brilliant. They when you start losing and there guarded me and protected me so were times I used to cry. Losing much. is not an option in Kolkata,” said “But they never interfered Chhetri with my freedom. Everyone want“It’s not easy, a lot of players ed me to score. And the 70 odd even quit. There were instances goals that I have scored for the which shook me and I even called national team came about because my father back home once and of this,” he added. The 35-year-old said that I don’t think I should is the second highest scorer in the do this.

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