April 26, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 139

DIMAPUR, SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020 Pages 6 (Online Edition)

WB accused of not cooperating

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national, Page 3

RTI on quality, purchases of PPE etc.

A-type nitrous cylinders, surgical items, drugs and items of other equipment and if these were approved

by QCC and PC conforming to standard, fitness and approval of WHO or any other quality standards approved by the government of India? and to furnish details.

The applicants also sought reply on who has been authorised as designated officer of DoHFW to receive consignment from the central government or from any authorised suppliers to distribute them?

They have also sought information with separate details of quantities of all medical material received either free from the centre or donated by corporate/ departments/well wishers and those purchased by the state government with consignment copies of each item in certified photocopy of receipts.

They have also sought information on whether the government had followed due protocols (through PC and QCC) in procuring drugs, surgical items and other medical equipment and protective gears by the DoHFW and state govern-

ment from government approved registered suppliers and government approved manufacturers? The applicants have sought details of relevant terms and conditions with detailed criteria in approving and assessing the supplier’s and manufacturer’s firm.

They have also sought details of names, phone numbers with details of addresses of all government approved suppliers and manufacturers who had supplied medical materials approved by PC and QCC; certified copy of supply orders with consignment copies, certified copy of supply agreement(s), total quantity of PPE, face masks, ventilators, surgical equipment, items of other equipment and medicines received with attested photocopy of consignments as on date (when the RTI was filed).

The applicants also sought details of all medical items purchased without approval of PC and QCC if any and names, addresses, telephone numbers of suppliers and manufacturers, supply orders, agreements and photocopies of consignment copies.

D imapur , A pr 2 5 (NPN): Information under RTI Act 2005 has been sought from the department of Health and Family Welfare (DoHFW) through the public information officer over the issue of “substandard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)” provided to health care workers and subsequent admission of lapses in procuring the PPE by the state health and family welfare minister.

The RTI application was filed by: Niketu Iralu (chairman, Kezekevi Thehou Ba, Kerünyü Ki Zubza), Robert N.Solo (general secretary Kezekevi Thehou Ba, T.Khel Kohima village), Kuolachalie Seyie (Sr.member, Kezekevi Thehou Ba, S.G.Stadium Kohima) and Visedel Kin (Sr.Member, Kezekevi Thehou Ba, Kistubozhou, Kohima).

The four, in their application, have said that the information sought under RTI concerned ‘life or liberty’ of persons of Nagaland state and therefore, the information sought be furnished within 48 hours of receipt as provided in the provisio to section 7(1) of the RTI Act 2005. They also cautioned that non-response to their

queries shall be deemed and treated as the DoHFW has nothing to say on these particular queries.

The RTI applicants have sought clarification on whether a legally constituted body such as medical purchase committee (PC) existed in the department “as claimed by Hon’ble minister of H&FW” before the “panic order and purchase took place?” They said if so, then whether quotations were invited by the PC and if yes then to furnish copies of attested quotations along with justification from the PC for all items such as drugs, surgical items and others.

The applicants also wanted to know whether a quality control committee (QCC) existed in the DoHFW and if so, when was it constituted and if materials received then whether they were of required specifications?

The applicants also wanted to know whether the department till date has received 56,000 PPE, 42,000 N95 masks, 2,76,000 triple layer masks,11 ICU ventilators, 50 CPAP machines, 9 transport ventilators, 1007 B type oxygen cylinders, 11

Swine Flu: Pig import banned in Mokokchung

Advisory panel on COVID-19 formed

MOKOKCHUNG, APR 25 (NPN): Due to the occurrence of swine fever disease in the neighbouring state of Assam especially in the bordering districts of Jorhat and Sibsagar, the department of animal husbandry & veterinary, Mokokckchung has banned the import of pigs and also prohibited the import of pork into the district till further notice.

Assam bans supply of pork: Meanwhile, Assam government has banned the supply and distribution of pork meat until further notice with immediate effect.

It is to be mentioned that in the light of Swine fever scare, Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal held a meeting with the top officials and scientists of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department and directed the department to conduct inquiry into the pig flu cases in the state and take remedial measures at the earliest in the greater interest of farmers engaged in the piggery sector.

Further, samples of affected pigs have been sent to the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal for the detection of Swine Flu.

This is it!

“Don’t switch on the TV. Everything about COVID, COVID, COVID even my dreams are full of it.”

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DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): To formulate longer term strategies to deal with COVID-19, the state government has decided to constitute an advisory committee on COVID-19.

The decision was taken at a meeting convened by the chief minister and chairman of State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) to review the preparedness and mitigation measures being undertaken by the state government in the wake of COVID-19.

The advisory committee comprised of experts from medicine, socio economic, supply chain, disaster management and emergency response would advice the state government to take incremental comprehensive measures on the containment of COVID-19. The committee would also seek advice of international experts as and when the need arises.

The meeting was held at the residential office of

(Cont’d on p-3)

Neiphiu Rio chairing the meeting of the SDMA, Saturday.

the chief minister at Kohima Saturday attended by the members of SDMA and state executive committee.

The members reviewed the preparedness and mitigation measures taken by the state government such as containment/contingency plan, procurement of medical equipment/ essential goods, setting up of BSLlab, distribution of relief rice in all districts, financial assistance to the stranded students, working people and patients, activation of surveillance team, setting up

of war room and state level control room, setting up of control room in all districts and sealing of international border along Myanmar and inter-state border. The members expressed satisfaction at the activities undertaken by the SDMA to deal with the crisis.

SDMA also accorded in principle approval to bring out blue print of the State COVID-19 response and control programme in order to have an incremental containment of COVID-19.

nagalandpostofficial nagalandpostofficial

Phom bodies serve ultimatum on state govt

US accounts for most COVID-19 deaths international, Page 6

4 NE states COVID-19 free; no fresh cases in other 4 states

AGARTALA/IMPHAL, APR 25 (IANS): With the recovery of the second Covid-19 patient in Tripura on Saturday, four of the eight North Eastern states - Tripura, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim -- had become coronavirus free, officials said on Saturday.

According to the health officials, there are 15 active COVID-19 cases in Assam, 11 in Meghalaya and one in Mizoram, besides a 33year-old trader from Dimapur, Nagaland, undergoing treatment at the Guwahati Medical College and Hospital since April 12.

There has been no fresh COVID-19 cases in any of the NE states in the past 24 hours.

Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb said the second and last Covid19 patient of Tripura was released from hospital (on Saturday) amid the applause of the healthcare staff. “He expressed satisfaction for the treatment and thanked doctors and medical staffs,” said Deb, who also holds the Health and Home port(Cont’d on p-3) folios.

DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Asserting that citizens of Longleng were worried about the poor condition of district’s lone hospital in the event of an outbreak, the apex Phom organisations— Phom Peoples’ Council (PPC) and Phom Students’ Conference (PSC)—have served an ultimatum on the state government to provide basic necessary human resources and medical equipment in a day or two.

In an open letter to the state chief minister, PPC vice president Tenchem Phom and PSC president A Mane Phom warned that failure to meet their demands the two apex bodies would take their own course of action and the state government would alone be held responsible for any untoward incident that could arise in the district.

The signatories pointed out that the Phom people in the district were faced with worst kind of preparedness.

They said that the lone hospital had only one portable ventilator and was yet to have an anaesthesiologist.

State could be worst hit postlockdown: Zeliang DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Leader of opposition and former chief minister, TR Zeliang, Saturday said that state could be worst hit post-lockdown with one incomplete testing lab, too little ICUs with ventilators in place in various districts, ill-equipped isolation wards, poor quality PPE for the doctors and nurses etc.

In a statement posted on the micro-blogging site Twitter, Zeliang said lockdown helped stop the spread of virus and contained mass infections, adding that lockdowns were not long term solution to fight the virus.

Questioning the preparedness level of the state in a post-lockdown scenario, the LoP said that the state’s “dismal preparedness” to combat the pandemic was pathetic.

(Cont’d on p-3)

Medics clap as a patient who recovered from COVID-19 is discharged from a hospital in Agartala, Saturday. (PTI)

In Imphal, a 23-year-old woman, who had returned from the UK last month, became the first coronavirus case. She was also the first Covid-19 patient to recover in the North East.

Manipur became second state after Goa to become coronavirus free after the state’s second and last patient was discharged on April 21. The 65-year-old man had attended the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin last month. The second Covid19 patient of the state after testing negative second time and showing improvement in his diabetic status was discharged from the Re-

gional Institute of Medical Sciences hospital in Imphal late on Tuesday, Manipur Health and Family Welfare department’s additional director Kh Sasheekumar Mangang told IANS. Arunachal Pradesh, became the third coronavirus free state after the lone patient, a 31-year-old man, was discharged from hospital on Friday. The Arunachal man from Medo village had attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation.

While no positive case was reported from Sikkim, the other seven NE states have so far reported 55 coronavirus cases, including Nagaland’s lone case.

Nationwide COVID-19 tally crosses 26,000 NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): The nationwide tally of coronavirus positive patients crossed 26,000 on Saturday, but the government said the daily growth rate has dipped to 6 per cent and some states began relaxing some lockdown conditions by allowing more shops to open.

At least 56 more deaths have been reported since Friday evening -- the highest so far in a span of 24 hours -- to take the death toll across the country to at least 779, according to the Union Health Ministry figures.

However, a PTI tally of figures reported by various states and union territories, till on 10pm, put the nationwide death toll at 824, and the total number of confirmed cases at 26,194.

In its evening 5pm update, the Union Health Ministry had said 24,942 people have tested positive

while more than 5,200 have recovered -- giving a recovery rate of over 20 per cent.

It also said the rate of daily

growth in new cases has fallen to 6 per cent, which is the lowest since the country crossed 100 cases.

Nagaland: 607 samples -ve; result of 6 awaited status REPORT AS ON APRIL 25, 2020 North East Nagaland Assam Manipur Meghalaya Mizoram Arunachal Pradesh Tripura

Confirmed Recovered Nil Nil 36 19 2 2 12 Nil 1 Nil 1 1 2 1

DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Out of 613 COVID19 suspected samples sent for testing, results of 607 samples have tested negative, while the results of six samples were awaited, principal secretary home Abhijit Sinha said.

In his daily briefing, Sinha also informed that for continuity of essential services to the general patients, the Health department has

Death Nil 1 Nil 1 Nil Nil Nil

directed all district health authorities to ensure that at least one COVID-19 and one non-COVID-19 hospital was available in each district. All peripheral health facilities such as Community Health Centres, Primary Health Centres, Urban Primary Health Centres and Sub Centres are to continue delivery of essential services to general patients as well, he added.

COVID-19 rapid antibody test kit use put on hold Only standalone shops permitted: MHA NEW DELHI, APR 25 (PTI): States and Union Territories have been asked to put on hold the use of COVID-19 rapid antibody test kits till their accuracy is rechecked by apex health research body the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), official sources said on Saturday.

According to the sources, teams constituted by ICMR are analysing the rapid antibody test kits, procured from two Chinese firms, to check their efficacy after some states reported that they are faulty and giving inaccurate results.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Friday said the results of the test kits vary from place to place and “it can’t be relied upon”.

“Moreover, WHO has also not commented on its accuracy. ICMR is reviewing the efficacy of the test and the

A medic shows a sample for COVID-19 rapid tests. (PTI/File)

kits in its own labs and shall come out with fresh guidelines soon,” he was quoted as saying in a health ministry statement on Friday.

An official said, “After a meeting the Union health ministry held with states on Friday, they were asked to halt the use of COVID-19 rapid antibody test kits for the time being till their accuracy is validated by the ICMR.” India had recently procured five lakh rapid antibody test kits from two Chinese firms and they were

distributed to states for districts with high burden of COVID-19 infection.

The ICMR on April 22 had issued a protocol reiterating the usage of these kit for surveillance purpose while stating that RT-PCR tests must be continued vigorously as the principal diagnostic test for COVID-19.

“The ICMR has always emphasised that the confirmatory test for diagnosis of COVID-19 infection is RT-PCR test of throat and/ or nasal swab for detection

of the virus at early stage,” ICMR said.

At present, the government uses the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test from throat or nasal swab samples of people to detect coronavirus. This test takes around five to six hours to show results. In the rapid antibody test, blood samples of suspected cases are collected for examination and the wait period for the result is around 15-30 minutes.

Earlier the government had said that rapid antibody test kits are to be used for surveillance and epidemiological purposes in coronavirus hotspot areas. “The RT-PCR test is the gold standard for frontline test and antibody test cannot replace this. Utility of rapid antibody test is primarily for assessing prevalence of infection in a particular area,” an official had said earlier.

DIMAPUR, APR 25 (NPN): Following several amendments made in the consolidated revised guidelines on lockdown measures to allow opening of shops, the Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday issued a clarification saying that only standalone shops are allowed to open as per the directive and that the order does not apply to COVID-19 containment zones or liquor stores.

“In urban areas, all standalone/neighbourhood shops & shops in residential complexes are allowed to open. Shops in markets/ market complexes & shopping malls are not allowed to open,” MHA clarified.

The Home ministry also clarified that: “Sale by E-commerce companies will continue to be permitted for essential goods only,” the ministry said. It also cleared that liquor stores will be shut as the relaxations do not apply to them. “Sale of liquor & other items continues to be prohibited as specified in the National Directives for COVID19 management,” it added.

Limited commercial activities in state In continuation of the earlier orders and in pursuance to Home Ministry orders-- dated April 15 and 24, Nagaland chief secretary Temjen Toy Saturday issued another order permitting several commercial activities with immediate effect.

1. Shops for Truck repairs along the highways with stipulated minimum distancing.

2. All shops, including those in residential and market complexes, except shops in multi-brand and single brand malls, outside the limits of municipalities and town councils, with 50% strength of workers wearing of masks and social distancing being mandatory.

3. All shops, including neighborhood shops and stand alone shops, shops in residential complexes, within the limits of municipalities and town councils, except shops in market complexes and multibrand and single brand malls, with 50% strength of workers with wearing of masks and social distancing being mandatory.

4. Shops located in crowded areas which offer no scope for enforcing satisfactory social distancing like the Hongkong Market, New Market in Dimapur Town, BOC Market in Kohima etc. shall remain closed except those shops/outlets dealing with food grains, vegetables, food items, medicines and other (Cont’d on p-7) essential items and goods.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020

COVID-19 preparedness reports from across the state

DIMAPUR: With the lockdown yet to be lifted on May 3, the preventive measures to combat possible outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic in Nagaland are being stringently monitored. Legislators in charge of various districts for COVID-19 are visiting their designated areas to ensure that every possible measure is being undertaken to protect the people of Nagaland. Meanwhile, respective district administrations are also conducting meetings and trainings to prepare the public in the eventuality of the virus breaking out.

phek

mon

Neiba Kronu along with officials, security forces and others at the PHC Meluri.

Dr. K. Kuotsu addressing the participants at the training for community.

Legislator visits PHC Meluri: Minister of Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs, Neiba Kronu visited Primary Health Centre (PHC) Meluri and interacted with the officials on April 25.

Addressing the gathering, he appealed the Pochury people to jointly venture out in fighting against the dreaded virus for the cause of humanity irrespective of party colours.

He called upon the people to adopt work culture and engage in farming activities so as to survive during difficult times without depending on mainland India for essential commodities. Stating that Nagaland was not facing shortage of essential commodities, he urged the people not to panic and asked the administrators to closely monitor the utilisation of commodities in consultation with public leaders. ADC Chubatemjen and his staff, MO Dr. Chukhusie & his team, Pochury Hoho president Chukekhu Nyusou and his colleagues, public leaders were part of the interaction and shared the grievances of the sub-division.

Training on COVID-19 held in Phek: Phek district conducted training for the community, church leaders, youth bodies, and representatives from mother association, Police department and personnel from SDRF on the preparedness of COVID-19 DH, at conference hall, Phek

on April 24.

A press release from NHM Phek district media officer Kutolu Nakro stated that, training was to make participants mentally prepared in the eventuality of possible outbreak of COVID-19 in the district. Participants were trained on topics like handling of death bodies, rational use of protective personal equipments (PPE) and mask and quarantine protocols.

The participants were also sensitised on the origin and transmission of COVID19, preventive measures, importance of hand washing & social distancing, cough etiquette etc. Resource persons Dr. Wethselo Tsuhah, Dr. K. Kuotsu and Dr. Lanuakum during their presentations appealed the leaders not to panic or create any issue over any death in their areas as dead bodies do not spread virus. Earlier, CMO Phek Dr. Vibeituonuo Mepfuo called upon the various departments and organization for cooperation in the fight against the pandemic. Training was conducted in two batches where the first batch was attended by colony chairmen, youth bodies, administration & SDRF, while second batch was attended by pastors, DBs and representatives from mother association.

Altogether 76 participants attended the training. The same activity will be carried out in all the blocks. Officials from administration, SDPO & representatives from CPO also attended.

DC Mon issues further directives: Deputy commissioner, Mon Thavaseelan K has issued following directives for public of Mon: All shops selling essential commodities within Mon town shall henceforth remain open for 5 days in a week i-e Monday to Friday. Banks, ATMs and pharmacies shall remain open on all working days; The daily timings will be from 9 a.m to 2 p.m; Only 1 person from a household will be permitted to go out for purchase of essential commodities, medicines and visit Banks /ATMs. He/she should carry the public movement permit in original.

Further, regulations on purchase of essential commodities are revised as follows: Maximum permissible quantity per day will be as, rice 25 kgs per family, dal 2 kgs per family. The permissible maximum quantity for the remaining items shall remain the same as per the previous order.

These regulations shall come into effect from Monday the April 27 till further notice. The ban on movement of private vehicles (except those permitted) across the district shall continue to remain in place.

Mobile Application launched: DC Mon, Thavaseelan K also notified that district administration, Mon has launched a Mobile Application 'NL-SOJOCOVID'. According to DIPR report, the Mobile App will monitor the current, pervious and future movements of people under observation for COVID-19. Additional features include tracking user locations and profiles, vital sign information, where people have last travelled and how they are progressing daily. Communication includes receiving alerts about users' locations for compliance with local safety guidelines, sending mass messages, email and SMS emergency calls. The application is available in the Google Play Store and citizens can download the app and use directly from their smartphones. It will be deployed in the Apple iOS App store shortly. Principal secretary, Nagaland Ramakrishnan collaborated with Kishore Reddy of Sita Corp, USA for developing and deploying the App.

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SHGs selling local vegetables at daily market Noklak town on April 25. (DIPR)

Packaging materials to be handed over to the farmers by DC Anoop Khinchi and DHO Dimapur Temsu Longkumer on April 24. (DIPR)

Packaging material handed over to farmers and vendors: Department of Horticulture distributed vegetable and fruit carton boxes to the farmers and vendors at FPO organic daily market, behind Super Market Dimapur on April 24. According to DIPR report, DC Dimapur Anoop Khinchi along with district horticulture

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Has global lockdown restored health of planet earth to a great extent?

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

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

Empty street of Zunheboto town during the ongoing lockdown period.

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

A

B

C

80% 20% 0%

Next poll

Q: How long should the

lockdown last?

For another months.  Till May 3,2020.  Can’t say. 

3

WEATHER FORECAST april 26

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala A thunderstorm in spots

16 10

Heavy rain and a t-storm

25 16

Guwahati Hazy sunshine Imphal

30 19

Clouds and sun with a t-storm 25 16

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

27 18

Shillong

A p.m. t-storm in spots

19 13

Kohima

An afternoon thunderstorm

20 13

Dimapur A strong afternoon t-storm

28 18

A stray morning t-storm

22 14

Tuensang A thunderstorm in spots

16 10

Mkg Wokha

zunheboto

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A Yes. B No. C Can’t say.

Aizawl

officer (DHO) Temsu Longkumer handed over the packaging materials in the presence of FPO members. Meanwhile, DC Dimapur has consented to arrange 2 Tata Mobile vehicles for transporting farm/ local produces to the market and also to provide permit for supplying the local produces to different locations.

Partly sunny with a t-storm

Zunheboto Partly sunny; a stray t-storm

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22 17 20 12

COVID-19 review meeting at Satakha: Minister of Agriculture & Cooperation, Kaito Aye, visited Satakha on April 22 and held a review on preparedness of SDL-Task Force on COVID-19. According to DIPR report, ADC Satakha, EAC Satakha & MO Satakha shared the problems faced and requested for his guidance & intervention. Minister donated a sum of Rs1,00,000/- (one lakh) towards SDL-Task Force Satakha along with following items, hand sanitizer 95 litres, 1500 masks, 4 sets of PPE, and 24 bottles of disinfectant phenyle. Minister further assured that necessary facilities required at the designated quarantine centre will be provided and put in place at the earliest.

Zunheboto district lockdown report: As per directive of district administration that only Monday, Wednesday and Saturday will be opened for specific given time for people to avail various services and to purchase essential commodities, the district on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday saw total lockdown with no unnecessary human and vehicular movements. A press release from COVID-India media reporter Bombo K Yeptho stated that, to keep the total lockdown going police personnel and traffic police were seen on duty, checking vehicles that were passing and keeping an eye everywhere to prevent unnecessary movements in the town. Police and Medical team at the entry points of the district are keeping a check on unnecessary movements of vehicles during the lockdown period and also vehicles travelling from far without the permit issued by the district administration 24x7.

SHGs sell local produces at Noklak: Self Help Groups (SHGs) of Noklak village under the aegis of Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission (NSRLM) and the initiative taken by Block Mission Management Unit (BMMU), Noklak in collaboration with the administration of Noklak organised selling of vegetables and other local produces at daily market, Noklak town on April 25. According to DIPR report, sales activity has been carried out in view to support and help the farmers during the lockdown on COVID-19 pandemic and also to reach out to the citizens as well. BMMU has also informed that marketing will be held twice in a week (Wednesday & Saturday) by SHGs and village level organizations. One may book the items in advance through phone call/SMS/WhatsApp to 8414 834627/6009119166/7005959766. During marketing, precautionary measures has to be maintained like social distancing, wearing of mask, hand wash.

peren

PMGKAY launched at Peren district: EAC Peren, Seyievilie Pfukri in the presence of ADS Peren, ward chairmen of Peren town and civil society representatives launched the free ration distribution programme under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) scheme at fair price shop, Peren town on April 25. According to DIPR report, EAC stated that the government of India has launched the scheme for relief during the COVID-19 crisis and under PMGKAY Scheme, Priority Household (PHH) & AAY ration card holders under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) will receive 5 kgs of rice per person per family free of cost for three consecutive months of April, May and June.

Meanwhile, in Jalukie town free ration distribution programme under PMGKAY Scheme was also launched by ADC Jalukie, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang.

Childline Peren is open 24x7: Childline Peren is operational 24x7 even during lockdown as it’s an emergency helpline for those children in need. A press release from Childline Peren center coordinator Ibamsile stated that, if anyone sees a child in need of care, protection, nutrition, counselling, abused or missing, forced to work or any child related issues, they may call 1098. Meanwhile, the district administration under DC Peren and ADC Jalukie also donated three sacks of rice and relief materials towards children in need of nutritional support.

Mokokchung

Addl SP Mokokchung, Imtimeren appraising the ASHA and AWW personnel during home legislators at Tsutapela interstate check gate. visits as part of their frontline duty.

Legislators inspect Tsutapela interstate check gate: Minister for Housing and mechanical Tongpang Ozukum and Imnatiba, advisor for Industries & Commerce, Lab & Emp, Skill Dev & Entrepreneurship visited Tsutapela interstate check gate and designate COVID-19 hospitals in Mokokchung on April 24. A press release from PS to minister Tongpang stated that, minister shared the importance of sanitizing vehicles at the check gate and why it should be continued as preventive measures. He also asked all the frontline workers, especially healthcare service personnel to wear protective kits not only for public awareness, but for safety as well. He also informed on some minor loopholes first hand which will be detrimental for the frontline workers and would appraise the concerned authorities. He further appealed to all the villagers living in the border areas to shoulder responsibilities and do their part as the police personnel cannot monitor the entire border belt alone. Earlier, minister inspected the designated quarantine center at Impur and Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital, which is the designated COVID-19 Hospital for Mokokchung district. He was accompanied by DC Mokokchung, SP and Addl SP Mokokchung, CMO and other officials.

ASHAs and AWWs perform home visits in Mokokchung: Frontline workers comprising of ASHAs and Anganwadi workers (AWWs) in Mokokchung district have been performing home visits where they share information on hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene, social distancing, high risk group and check on the health status of elderly and people with existing illnesses.

A press release from NRHM Mokokchung DPMU stated that, community awareness through inter personal communication,

distribution of flyers, pamphlets and posters are also carried out in their coverage areas.

Other activities include line listing of individuals with travel history within last 14 days and in contact with suspected/positive cases, and following up with the individuals advised to follow home quarantine.

Information education and communication (IEC) staff of Mokokchung district in collaboration with the district public relation office (DPRO) is constantly taking measures in keeping the public aware of the prevailing COVID-19 and its preventions.

Announcement on do’s and don’ts , social distancing , social stigma, home quarantine in all the villages and wards are carried out.

Radio talks, pasting of pamphlets, posters and distribution of flyers etc are performed from time to time as necessary.

Quarantine centres set up in CHC Changtongya: Quarantine centers have been set up in Community Health Center (CHC) Changtongya with the joint efforts of CHC, CTN staffs and SDO (C) Changtongya town. According to DIPR report, GA Rest House for medical staff with 10 beds has been arranged and for general public at Government High School Changtongya 'B' with another 10 beds. Meanwhile the authorities have informed that they were well prepared even in the eventuality of increase in quarantine persons.

UPHC Yimyu ward to function 24x7: Chief medical officer (CMO) Mokokchung has informed general public that in view of IMDH being converted to COVID-19 Hospital following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Urban Primary Health Center (UPHC) at Yimyu Ward, Mokokchung will be functioning 24x7. The UPHC will cater to general patients especially for antenatal (ANC) cases and normal deliveries.

kohima Training for officers under IRS Kohima: A district level training on COVID-19 for all officers detailed under the Incident Response System (IRS) will be imparted by the experts from the Medical department on April 28, 11 a.m at DPDB conference hall, DC Office Complex Kohima. After the training, there will be a table-top exercise for the district Incident Response System at the same venue during which there will be a discussion to conduct the district level mock drill to be held on April 30. DC Kohima Gregory Thejawelie has requested all district IRS officers, emergency support branch officers and legislators' in-charge for Kohima district to attend the said training and table top exercise.

NHAK to operate OPD only for consultation: Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) shall begin its skeletal OPD only for consultation of all major departments from April 27 between 10 a.m to1 p.m daily, except on government designated holidays till such time COVID-19 positive patients are admitted. A press release from NHAK managing director Thorhusie Katiry however stated that, no patient shall be admitted for any procedure in the hospital. Patients requiring admission are advised to approach the government panelled hospital for further management. Public have also been advised to wear mask when reporting for OPD consultation at NHAK and maintain social distancing.

tuensang Tuensang DTF meeting on COVID-19: Tuensang District Task Force (DTF) for COVID-19 held a review meeting at DC conference hall on April 25, under the chairmanship of DC, Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant. According to DIPR report, meeting reviewed the present status of the preparedness in relation to COVID-19 and the return of stranded students/ people from Dimapur, Kohima who are to be brought back to district. Detailed screening will be done which will be followed by home quarantine for 14 days. Discussions were also held on the procedure for handling of dead bodies and its disposal in case of any eventually due to COVID-19. In this regard, members agreed to find out

DC Tuensang Kumar Ramnikant addressing the DTF review meeting on April 25. (DIPR)

an isolated land of plot for burial ground. The meeting also resolved to have a plan of action in case of detection of any case occurs on COVID-19 and also to set up a “district war room” as call and media centre.

CAPF continue to monitor Chessore area: Chessore Area Public Forum (CAPF) has appealed out-

siders of Chessore area to produce proper documents and reason to CAPF when necessary to visit so the forum can extend help with concerned authority of COVID-19.

In a press release, CAPF president Y. Kiumukam and general secretary R. Akhum has also asked general public not to panic

or forward fake information about the COVID-19 in social media. CAPF added that sale of gutka, tobacco, alcohol, and spitting in public places are strictly prohibited and that wearing face mask was compulsory. CAPF also visited Chessore PHC to check the duties and facilities for COVID-19, while it also held discussion with SDO (C) Chesore about the relief issue and aid provided by the government.

Forum also appreciated USLB, medical officer, administration and police of Longkhim town for showing humanity towards the four Yimchunger brothers on April 18. CAPF stated that the four persons were under quarantine, two in Shiponger and one in Chessore village.

Despite inclement weather, cold and constant drizzle, Vishal Mega Mart team Kohima gave token of appreciation to the police personnel on duty stand guard round the the Traffic personnel on COVID-19 duty for their dedication clock at Shamator town. (DIPR) and service towards safety of public on April 24. (DIPR) K Y M C

WB accused of not cooperating

Kolkata, Apr 25 (PTI): Alleging non-cooperation by the West Bengal government, two central teams visiting the state to assess the COVID-19 situation on Saturday took umbrage at a top bureaucrat’s remark that officials cannot waste time by accompanying them and wondered whether the ruling dispensation would take responsibility of their members’ safety.

In a fresh set of letters to Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha, the two teams which are in Kolkata and in Siliguri in North Bengal flagged several instances of non-cooperation regarding providing logistical support and other relevant information.

The inter-ministerial central team, led by senior bureaucrat Apurba Chandra, said it is yet to receive a response from the state government to the letters it has written to Sinha since its arrival in the city on Monday.

Chandra also sought details about testing, quarantine and contact tracing of the Tablighi Jamaat meet returnees from Delhi’s Nizamuddin area, based on the data provided by the Union government.

“Four letters have been written to the state government till today. No response has been received till date...

The chief secretary of West Bengal has been widely reported in the media to have stated that the IMCT is free to visit anywhere,

A wholesale shop is seen open during the ongoing nationwide lockdown in the wake of coronavirus pandemic, in Kolkata on Saturday. (PTI) and the state government made, a hard copy of that requested. The IMCT would cannot waste its time by has not been furnished yet, still request you to facilitate accompanying them. he said. the meeting. Lot of details “The above stand is In another letter to are required from his side a violation of the order by Sinha, the team in North regarding implementation the Union Home Ministry Bengal, led by senior bu- of the lockdown... I shall and the state government is reaucrat Vineet Joshi, said be grateful for an immediexpected to provide logistics a larger number of field of- ate response as larger public support and facilitate all ficers is required to monitor interest is involved,” Joshi field visits,” Chandra said and provide feedback about said. in one of the two letters to the effectiveness of various “The IMCT is thankful Sinha on Saturday. measures undertaken by the to you for extending sup“The stand of the state state government. port to visit a few places government on facilitating “As an immediate mea- today (Friday), albeit late the visits of the IMCTs and sure, it is suggested that afternoon which forced the ensuring the safety and se- stricter implementation of IMCT to change its plans,” curity of the team members lockdown is absolutely nec- the letter by Joshi to the as also providing informa- essary to avoid any further chief secretary said. tion and records may be outbreak...,” Joshi said.

The central team had made clear through a writHe said additional de- written to the West Benten communication, rather tails were sought during gal government on Friday, than through media...,” he discussions with divisional seeking a detailed report added. commissioner, district mag- on the functioning of the The central team has istrate and CMO Darjeeling coronavirus death audit made queries on 10 aspects on April 22 and April 23, but committee and a meeting of the health department, are yet to be provided. with its members, expressincluding quarantine and “A meeting sought with ing displeasure at the arlockdown measures. Al- the police commissioner rangements in hospitals and though a presentation was could not materialise as quarantine centres.

People observe Ramzan amid lockdown

Devotees offer Zuhr prayers on the first day of holy month of Ramzan in Srinagar on Saturday. (PTI)

of offering Namaz at home under unavoidable situations. So, people need to stay at home and offer Namaz and read Tarabi(ritual prayers) during Ramzan, by following social distancing norm as there is threat of epidemic,” said Shahi Imam of Fatehpuri mosque Mufti Mukarram Ahmed.

Prominent clerics of the city including Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid Syed Ahmed Bukhari and bodies like Delhi Waqf Board have appealed the people to offer Namaz at their homes during Ramzan and follow social distancing and other lockdown guidelines.

Ramzan is marked by month-long fasting by followers of Islam and culminates with celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

(From p-1) Respective Deputy Commissioners may make assessment of such locations and issue suitable orders in this regard.

5. It is reiterated that Salons, dine-in restaurants, eateries and departmental stores shall continue to remain closed. However, home deliveries from dinein restaurants, food outlets and delivery of online orders of essential commodities shall be permitted.

6. The proprietors of the shops and establishments which are allowed to open will make arrangements for keeping hand sanitizers or provide facilities for hand washing with soap and water for the public as well as for their own staff/ workers. The proprietors of the shops and establishments should also get the door handles, surfaces and other objects which are frequently touched by people regularly cleaned and disinfected.

However, as specified in the lock down measures, National COVID-19 Directives and Standard Operating Procedure, protocol for social distancing must be ensured.

(From p-1) They have also asked how does the DoHFW ensure safety and quality of PPE and surgical items supplied to health workers without having label or name of manufacturer, address, manufacturing batch or date of expiry or quality control certification symbol?

Citing the order issued by the principal director’s office to doctors to choose their PPE, the applicants have sought details on how were doctors expected to choose when PPE did not have manufacturer’s label, quality assessment by a competent authority in the department? They have also sought details of manufacturers and suppliers involved in supply of PPE, surgical items that had no labels and also names of officers from the DoHFW, involved in the supply of such items.

The applicants also wanted to know whether referred labels on items were “intentionally removed” from PPE that had no labels and to state at which supply chain were they removed? They have also sought details as to how quality assessment by QCC was done and the parameters or quality assessment standards relied for assessing various medical equipment and surgical items, drugs supplied and received?

The applicants also asked details of whether surgical items and items of other equipment received so far were to the satisfaction of the DoHFW and medical fraternity? They have also sought reasons in support of the

reply since it involved matter of life and safety issues including ‘Life and Liberty’ of health care personnel in particular and people of the state in general. They have also sought details of quoted rates, purchase rate along with GST and MRP of all medical materials, drugs, surgical items and other equipments purchased till date.

The applicants have also asked for details of the total monetary amount received from various sources for COVID-19 pandemic and total amount spent till date with particulars.

They have also sought arrangements of complete sets of PPE, N95 masks, triple-layer masks, ICU ventilators, CPCP machines, transport ventilators, B type oxygen cylinders, A-Type nitrous cylinders already received as per published record for inspection by the them (RTI applicants) as per RTI Act 2005 and permissible under provisio to section 2(f) of RTI Act 2005.

Further, citing the admission of lapses by the minister of H&FW due to the “panic order and purchase”, the four have demanded the following: to enlighten on what these lapses were and do they refer to delay in purchase of PPE or do they pertain to purchase of sub-standard PPE or whether it was intentionally being careless and a calculated compromise in quality for monetary benefit as such, which places the lives of healthcare workers at risk? The applicants have asked the DoHFW to furnish names

(From p-1) Further, they pointed out that as per the government guidelines there should not be any transfer of positive cases from one place to the other, but to

be treated at the respective district COVID-19 hospital.

However, they said it appeared COVID-19 hospital Longleng would not be able to handle the situation without an anaesthesiologist,

K Y M C

NEW YORK, APR 25 (AGENCIES): The UNICEF has war ned that millions of children were in danger of missing lifesaving vaccines against measles, diphtheria and polio due to disruptions in immunization services caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Most countries had suspended mass polio immunization campaigns and 25 countries had postponed mass measles immunization campaigns, the Unicef said in a statement on Friday, adding that even before the COVID-19 pandemic, measles, polio and other vaccines were out of reach every year for 20 million children below the age of one, reports Efe news.

Over 13 million children below the age of one did not receive any vaccines at all in 2018, it added.

“The stakes have never been higher. As COVID-19 continues to spread globally, our life-saving work to provide children with vaccines is critical,” Robin Nandy, Unicef Principal Adviser and Chief of Immunization, was quoted as saying.

“With disruptions in immunization services due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fates of millions of

young lives hang in the balance,” he said. An estimated 182 million children missed out on the first dose of the measles vaccine between 2010 and 2018, or 20.3 million children a year on average, according to a Unicef analysis. This is because the global coverage of the first dose of measles stands only at 86 per cent, well below the 95 per cent needed to prevent measles outbreaks, said the statement.

Widening pockets of unvaccinated children led to alarming measles outbreaks in 2019, including in highincome countries like the US, UK and France. Among low-income countries, the gaps in measles coverage before COVID-19 were already alarming, warned UNICEF. Between 2010 and 2018, Ethiopia had the highest number of children under one year of age who

further trace every contact and place them under quarantine and observation.

For that to happen, LoP said infrastructure needed to be in place and good coordination between hospitals and government departments should be prioritised.

Former chief minister also suggested that government needed to work double time to ensure that mass infections did not occur “as a result of their complacency” when lockdown was lifted.

The opposition leader also emphasised the need for providing quality and WHO-recommended protective gears and other medical equipment to the frontline workers.

“We cannot dream to be safe, protected and cared, unless the doctors and nurses feel safe first,” he underlined.

all the frontline workers particularly the medical department for the preparedness being carried out with little resource that was being available to tackle the pandemic.

Finders May please contact me on this No.9648064274

and concurrence from the Ministries of Health and External Affairs in this regard,” the communication said.

MHA also said the Standard Operating Procedures issued by the health ministry in this regard must be strictly adhered to.

According to the SOP, the human remains mean the dead body and the exhumed body of confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patients. It says the importation of the human remains of confirmed or suspected COVID-19 case into India is not recommended.

MHA said if, contrary to the above recommendation, human remains of the suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 arrive at Indian airports, the concerned Airport Health Officer has to follow certain procedures.

Congo (6.2 million), Afghanistan (3.8 million), Chad, Madagascar and Uganda with about 2.7 million each, said UNICEF.

STN HQ DIMAPUR NOTICE INVITING TENDER (NIT) OUTSOURCING OF CONSERVANCY SERVICES Tender Notice/ Request For Proposal (RFP) for Outsourcing of Conservancy Services for the period of 12 months (Prospective contract due from 16 May 20)is being floated online as Open Tender Enquiry (OTE) at Def e-Procurement portal (DPP) of NIC https://defproc.gov. in/eprocure/app.

It is further info that all vendors interested for outsourcing of Conservancy Services to Stn HQ Dimapur must enroll/ be registered on to the DPP portal. The detailed instruction on enrolment are available online. Details post enrolment may be sent to mail id : rak.dima2@nic.in

I Shri. R. Nangshi Jamir has lost village Patta issued by Unity Village (Sugar Mill) and applying for one duplicate copy of it.

The Patta is “Patta No.182, Mouza No.3 Non-Cadastral land under Chumukedima Block, Dimapur, Nagaland.

can be brought back, says MHA

New Delhi, Apr 25 (PTI): Home Ministry Saturday said the bodies of Indian nationals and OCI cardholders, who died abroad due to COVID-19, can be brought back, but with strict adherence to relevant guidelines.

In an official communication, the ministry said airport authorities have to follow the protocols laid down by different government agencies in this regard.

It is clarified that “immigration functions in respect of the arrival of dead bodies and mortal remains of the Indian nationals/ OCI cardholders are permitted subject to strict adherence to the guidelines/ instructions issued by various ministries and departments related with management of COVID-19 and submission of no objection, approval

missed out on the first dose of measles, at nearly 10.9 million.

It was followed by the Democratic Republic of

LOST NOTICE

ADMINISTRATIVE COMMANDANT PH – 9436830818

UNIVERSITY NAGALAND (A Central University Established by the Act of Parliament, 35/1989) Department of Teacher Education School of Humanities & Education Kohima Campus, Meriema, Kohima- 797 004 POSTPONEMENT NOTIFICATION FOR B.Ed ADMISSION-2020 Nagaland State Education Common Entrance Test (NS Ed.CET-2020) (B.Ed Admission) for the academic year 2020-21 postponed due to corona virus (COVID-

19) pandemic. Entrance Test and counselling for admission dates will be intimated based on further orders from UGC/University academic calendar through print and electronic media and university official website. The detailed information is available in the website http://nagalanduniversity.ac.in/English/

https://admission.nagalanduniversity.ac.in/NSEDCET2020 Last Date for Submission of Applications

No Last date, Extended until further notification Date and Time of Entrance Test and Postponed until further notification Counselling for admission (NS Ed.CET-2020) DC-390

then,” he said.

Former chief minister accused the government of being quick in make announcements and receiving applause, but “slow as a snail” in implementation.

“The same is happening with the setting up of the laboratory,” he added.

LoP said the government claimed that lab would be functional at the earliest.

However, Zeliang said that going by the department assessment, it would not be as early as the initial announcement and could take a month or more before it was fully functional.

He said that the only way to fight against the virus was to ensure that the state can detect the symptomatic patients, test their samples without delay and be able to isolate and care for every positive case and

sufficient ventilators and other medical equipment to treat the patients besides the absence of fully established ICU. Meanwhile, PPC and PSC have appreciated the district administration and

UNICEF warns over lack of life-saving vaccines for kids

State could be worst hit post-lockdown... Bodies of Indians who die abroad

(From p-1) He said that lockdown should have served as a period to ramp up state’s preparedness so when the lockdown was the state would be in a position to handle positive cases on its own without having to run for help from neighbouring states.

However, Zeliang said it was “a sad reality” on the ground when it comes to being prepared despite the government’s repeated “well-prepared” claims.

During the Budget Session in the month of February, LoP said he had raised the significance to be prepared for any eventuality. However, he said that the government had with conviction stated that in the house that the State has initiated many measures to tackle and handle the virus.

“But the picture today is far from the wild claims made

and particulars of all officers from the department who “panicked to place the order” and when did the “panic order and purchase” take place as stated by the minister of H&FW including number of “such panic orders, dates, quantity etc?

They have also sought details of persons/supplying firms involved in the supply of all medical equipments and surgical items that fell under “panic order and purchase” category along with particulars of all the equipment, drugs and quantity, MRP, purchase memos indicating rate at which they were purchased. The applicants have also asked whether items purchased under ‘panic order and purchase’ were routed through PC and QCC and if yes, then to furnish particulars of the approval and quality assessment.

Also citing the minister of H&FW, the applicants said a purchase and quality control committee was set up while admitting lapses in procurement of PPE. They wanted to know if the referred committees were non-existent in the department until the admission of lapses or were these existing committees bypassed and trespassed? They also wanted to know whether medical materials purchased under ‘panic order and purchase’ were subjected to verification by QCC and PC? If yes, then they asked for a report of the assessment so as to differentiate which sets of equipment was cleared for us and which were recalled for poor quality?

Phom bodies serve ultimatum on state govt

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all this is missing this time due to the lockdown and people are keeping indoors,” said Burhanuddin, a resident from Lal Kuan in the walled city.

Many of the ‘Rozedars’ (those who observer fast during Ramzan) complained that ‘khajla-feni’, a staple during this period for ‘sehri’ (food taken in early hours), is unavailable.

“Khajla (a deep fried food item) mixed with milk amd sugar is a complete diet. But, we are not getting it from shops famous for it like Sri Bhawan near Jama Masjid and Chenaram,” said another resident.

As all religious places are closed due to the lockdown, people could not visit mosques for prayers.

“Islam has the option

Limited commercial activities in state

RTI on quality, purchases of PPE etc.

DC-389

New Delhi, Apr 25 (PTI): With forlorn markets and mosques, the first day of Ramzan in the national capital on Saturday lacked the usual festive atmosphere as people stayed indoors and most shops remained shut in the wake of lockdown due to coronavirus outbreak.

Religious places including mosques have been closed for over a month now.

And with clerics advising all to stay home and social distancing becoming the norm, people are unable to get together for prayers and Iftar, a ritual of breaking fast every evening, that are a key part of Islam’s holiest month.

“There is a festive mood on Ramzan as people throng the markets and the mosques have increased footfall. But

3

national/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020

-SdChairman NS Ed.CET-2020

-SdConvener NS Ed.CET-2020 K Y M C

4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

Vol. XXx NO. 139 Dimapur, SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020

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WHO did it

longside a US lawsuit demanding $20 trillion in compensation and a German daily slapping a €150 billion bill on Beijing, for wilfully suppressing facts about the Wuhan virus, later renamed as COVID-19 by WHO, many other countries are also contemplating on making China accountable for the pandemic crisis that has hit the world and brought down their economies to the ground. US president Donald Trump has been clear about the culpability of China in hiding facts from the world when COVID-19 spread and having the potential of crossing boundaries to the entire globe. As reported by many media, today COVID-19 has spread to over 200 countries with nearly 29 lakh cases and nearly two lakh deaths.

The lawsuits filed in US Federal courts seek damages for deaths, injuries and economic losses caused by COVID-19. However, since these lawsuits may not be implementable as it involves another sovereign nation, US lawmakers are drafting a legislation to strip China of its immunity from suit in the US courts. Even if enacted, these congressional efforts are unlikely to pave the way for successful lawsuits - and they could prompt China to take reciprocal measures against the United States. Most opinions concur that China should be held accountable in other ways, including through diplomatic pressure and a thorough U.S. investigation of Beijing’s role in concealing and failing to stop the spread of covid-19. Even about its own COVID-19 cases including fatalities, China has not been forthcoming at all. It wants to prove to the world that it has successfully contained the virus and that it is ready to do business. China wants to believe it will be business as usual but its hurry is aimed at milking the suffering nations. Taking advantage of the global lockdown, Beijing bumped up prices of Testing Kits and sold lifesaving supplies at a tremendous profit.

When countries started to complain about the quality of the products purchased, instead of taking the criticism and vowing to do better, China has initially blamed it on user error. Things have steadily gone downhill since then as more and more countries come forward with claims of shoddy products and test kits that don’t meet medical standards. Countries that received kits like the US, Italy, Spain, Germany and other countries are now demanding a refund.

The entire issue of COVID-19 has also brought the World Health Organisation (WHO) under the radar. It has been said that without China’s deceit and WHO’s solicitude for Beijing, the outbreak might have been more limited, and the world at the very least would have had more time to react to the virus. China committed unforgivable sins of commission, affirmatively lying about the outbreak and punishing doctors and making journalists who reported the truth, to disappear. On the other hand, the WHO committed sins of omission in surrendering its independence and courage at a moment of great consequence. At the centre of storm in the WHO is its chief, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, an Ethiopian minister who obtained fame for containing the malarial epidemic. In effect, China and the WHO worked together to expose the rest of the world to the virus, at the same time they downplayed its dangers. Nations ought to rethink about funding WHO as it wilfully failed in carrying out its primary duty- to save lives.

DailyDevotion “Ready in Season”

Be ready in season and out of season.

—2 Timothy 4:2

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

They are spiritually feeble and weak, and they refuse to do anything unless they are supernaturally inspired. The proof that our relationship is right with God is that we do our best whether we feel inspired or not.

One of the worst traps a Christian worker can fall into is to become obsessed with his own exceptional moments of inspiration. When the Spirit of God gives you a time of inspiration and insight, you tend to say, “Now that I’ve experienced this moment, I will always be like this for God.” No, you will not, and God will make sure of that.

Those times are entirely the gift of God. You cannot give them to yourself when you choose. If you say you will only be at your best for God, as during those exceptional times, you actually become an intolerable burden on Him. You will never do anything unless God keeps you consciously aware of His inspiration to you at all times. If you make a god out of your best moments, you will find that God will fade out of your life, never to return until you are obedient in the work He has placed closest to you, and until you have learned not to be obsessed with those exceptional moments He has given you.

Quotes

“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” ~ Dr. Seuss

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020

A

n American medical anthropologist once said, “The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that’s wrong with the world.”

Racism may be defined as the hatred of one person by another, or the belief that another person is less than human, because of skin colour, language, customs, and place of birth or any factor that supposedly reveals basic nature of that person. It has existed throughout human history. Over the century and decades, it has influenced wars, slavery, formation of nations and legal codes.

Perhaps, racism is man’s greatest threat, the reason being, a total hatred over no reason. And our question is why? Why do we hate? Yes, we hate because we hate to talk. We hate because we are ignorant.

Someone rightly said that we are the product of ignorant people called human.

Had we acknowledge our differences, it would have been our greatest strength yet our failure to embrace it, becomes our weakness.

Now, my point is when the whole world is battling for their lives from a virus called “COVID-19” or so call “Corona Virus”, people of North East struggle with another virus

Let’s heal the world

called “Racism”. A disease which have been subjugating the North East people, just for the simple reason that they have different appearance than the rest of the country. Ill treated and judged for years as victims of racism. A discrimination that have hurt the soul rather than physical pain. A simple question, why? What’s colour got to do? Why appearance does matter? All these years, North East people have tolerated racial slurs like “chinki”, “chowmein”, “momo”, “Chinese” and “Nepali”, but now comes “Corona”. Don’t you know that Corona virus is incapable of “Racism”. Yes, Corona virus has not created health disparities. It does not discriminate along racial or ethnic lines. In the name of Corona virus, a Manipuri girl was spat on in Delhi, a Mizo girl faces racism in Pune or the nine Naga girls chased out from their apartment in Gujarat.

In Kolkata, some Naga students were also chased out and again in Karnataka and Hyderabad; students from the region were not allowed inside stores. All these are happening almost every day in every nook and corner of our country.

And there have been many instances where many such

cases are gone into thin air. And what all these incidents have in common is that they were all from a certain part of the country, had a “Particular” appearance and were seen as outsiders and aliens in the places they lived. These incidents have been read as a symptom of the pervasive racial discrimination that people from the region face in metropolitan India.

Over the years, the issue of racism and discrimination has been taken poorly by the government and legislation poorly implemented, though India is a signatory of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”, said Martin Luther. And thus, Northeastern people continue to suffer appalling forms of discrimination. The ethics of our country are being violated, so people from the North East continue to face ill treatment due to COVID-19 pandemic. Yet many minds of Indians are rooted in oppressive systems that were designed to hurt and disenfranchise North Eastern folks. Most Indians think racism exists only in the west and see themselves as victims.

Its time they examined their own attitudes towards people from the country’s North-East. Perhaps it’s time for them to stop the ideology of blaming the religion, when a Muslim is convicted for murder, to stop the blame on the race when a black harassed someone, to stop blaming the whites for the slavery.

Rapper Michael Franti quotes “No life’s worth more than any other, no sister worth less than any brother”. Yes, no human race is superior to other and no religion is inferior. No one is born racist. So, there is no point of treating any one with discrimination on the basis of physical traits.

This is an insult to humanity and our whole existence.

All races are born equal and all individuals deserve to be dealt with equality.

Nelson Mandela also says, “No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background or his religion.

People learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” Let us remember that, we come from the same place, live in the same planet, breathe the same air, and will go to the same place. We are

also the sons and daughters of the same soil that gives birth to this great country.

Celebrate the same Independence Day; sings the same National Anthem, died for the same country and we are as patriotic as anybody else. Why be racist when we all bleed the same colour? Why judge when we haven’t even got to really know each other?

But? Why should I Iook down at other mainstream or mainland Indians because some treat us on the basis of our appearance.

That mentality has to be stopped. I say again, it has to be stopped. Why? Because there are people that promote equality. Because I have friends from other caste/religion and we celebrate their festivals with them.

Looking around, perhaps my country need an education system that teaches one community to trust another; where the weak will not live in terror of the strong, nor the poor suffer insult and injury from the rich; a nation in which different cultures may flourish side by side.

My country will progress when justice is blind to appearance, education doesn’t seek class, and opportunity is unconcerned with status.

Mahatma Gandhi truly

said, “you must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty”. Discrimination does nothing but set us back. The world is more colourful when it’s only white and black. And that diversity makes us as a rich tapestry. And if we learn to love one another regardless of differences, then we will learn the beauty of peace.

If a country or a state wants to evolve to a higher level of good, it must surrender the path of greed. We must appreciate and live each day with passion and not let go for a moment of gratitude, thankfulness for another day. Awaken tomorrow and live like you were born to be here. And just stop for a while, and think. Equality doesn’t end and begins on religion and caste. It goes way beyond, and covers all mankind.

And to me, embracing our differences means that we accept each other for who the person is on the inside.

Do not base your opinion on race, gender, sexual orientation, or anything else for that matter. You cannot change your future, but you can change your habits.

And surely your habits will change your future.

Kotso Medo, Dimapur

Know our health care system and its shortcomings Keep social distance,

T

he health care system in India is primarily administered by states. Healthcare system comprises of hospitals, medical devices, clinical trials, outsourcing, telemedicine, medical tourism and health insurance.

States are responsible for organizing and delivering health services to their residents. The central government is responsible for international health treaties, medical education, prevention of food adulteration, quality control in drug manufacturing, national disease control and family planning programs. India’s Constitution tasks each state with providing health care for its people. Healthcare is the right of every individual but lack of quality infrastructure, dearth of qualified medical functionaries and non-access to basic medicines and medical facilities thwarts its reach to 60% of population in India. India’s GDP for health is less than 1.5 per cent and is one of the lowest in the world. India ranks 145th among 195 countries in terms of both, quality and accessibility of healthcare. Government of India is planning to increase public health spending to three percent of the country’s GDP by 2025. We consider 70% of India lives in rural areas, average number of doctors per thousands in India becomes 1:9,200. Presently, 31.7% villages still don’t have primary healthcare centres in India. While about 70 percent of India’s population lives in rural areas, only 20 percent of hospital beds are located in rural areas. Many Primary Healthcare Clinics in rural areas are devoid of electronic systems to maintain patient records.

Lack of quality infrastructure, shortage of qualified medical practitioners and non-access to basic medicines and medical facilities thwart its reach to more than 60% of population in India. A paradigm shift from provision of essential to quality health care at the primary care level is on the anvil. Sub centres are being transformed into Health and Wellness

centres (H&WC) which is expected to improve utilization of public-sector primary care services and improve the health of communities served. There is general reluctance among the health workers to be located in the interior rural areas and when appointed in these areas, they choose to remain absent for longer duration from their duties. It is also well known that many doctors are not willing to work in the rural areas due to lack of facilities, even if they are paid high salaries.

Private administration playing a substantial role in Indian health sector, according to National Family Health Survey, the private health sector remains the primary source of health care for 70% households in urban areas and 63% households in rural areas. Due to rapid urbanization of cities post liberalization and globalization, about 75% of the infrastructure and resources investments were allocated in urban areas.

India has a mixed health care system inclusive of public and private health care service providers.

However, most of the private health care providers are concentrated in urban India, providing secondary and tertiary health care services. India has roughly 20 health workers per 10,000 population, with allopathic doctors comprising 31% of the workforce, nurses and midwives 30%, pharmacists 11%, AYUSH practitioners 9%, and others 19%. The ultimate goal of the central government should be to achieve Universal Healthcare Coverage (UHC). For this, government need to cut down the out of pocket expenditure of hospitals as well as of Outpatient Departments (OPD). Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission, as a centrally Sponsored Scheme, contributed by both centre and state government at a ratio of 60:40 for all States, 90:10 for hilly North Eastern States improving coverage of immunisation in the country. The Ayushman Bharat scheme has allocated 12 billion in the

Union Budget in 2018 for upgradation of sub centres into H&WCs. These wellness centres will provide comprehensive healthcare for the management of non communicable diseases with lifestyle modifications, maternal and child care, adolescent health, nutritional and health education, promotion of menstrual hygiene, and free essential drugs and diagnostic services.

Basic dental, ENT and ophthalmology services will also be provided at these centres. The integration of Ayurveda and Yoga will further promote holistic approach toward the health of the community. All India Institutes presently functional are AIIMS New Delhi, Bhopal, Bhubaneshwar, Jodhpur, Raipur, Patna and Rishiksh. Established new All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to provide health insurance worth Rs 500,000 (US$ 7,124.54) to over 100 million families every year. All India Institutes of Medical Sciences is owned and controlled by the central government. These are referral hospitals with specialized facilities.

The private sector is the dominant player in the healthcare sector in India.

Almost 75% of healthcare expenditure comes from the pockets of households, and catastrophic healthcare cost is an important cause of impoverishment.

There is a renewed governmental focus on hygiene sanitation (Swachh Bharat Abhiyan), housing (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana), clean indoor air by provision of clean fuels (Ujjwala Yojana providing free liquefied petroleum gas connections to below poverty line families), and expansion of immunization service and coverage (Mission Indradhanush Kavach). All these initiatives that influence the health of the poor, vulnerable, and underserved population have achieved excellent success in their respective domains. We all are very well aware that the healthcare infrastructure as well achievements in health of the country is not satisfactory.

The healthcare system in India is functioning on the basis of model mentioned below:1. Sub centres - A Sub Centre is designed to serve extremely rural areas with the expenses fully covered by the national government. Mandates require health staff to be at least two workers (male and female) to serve a population of 5000 people (or 3000 in a remote, dangerous location). Sub Centres also work to educate rural people about healthy habits for a more long-term impact.

2. PHC - Primar y Health Centres exist in more developed rural areas of 30,000 or more (20,000 in remote areas) and serve as larger health clinics staffed with doctors and paramedics. Patients can be referred from local sub centres to PHCs for more complex cases. A major difference from Sub Centres is that state governments fund PHCs, not the national government.

PHCs also function to improve health education with a larger emphasis on preventative measures.

3 . A C o m mu n i t y Health Centre is also funded by state governments and accepts patients referred from Primary Health Centres. It serves 120,000 people in urban areas or 80,000 people in remote areas. Patients from these agencies can be transferred to general hospitals for further treatments. Thus, CHC’s are also first referral units, or FRUs, which are required to have obstetric care, new born/childcare, and blood storage capacities at all hours everyday of the week.

4. District Hospitals are the final referral centres for the primary and secondary levels of the public health system. It is expected that at least one hospital is in each district of India, 5. Government Medical Colleges are owned and controlled by the respective state governments and also function as referral hospitals.

(To be concluded) Marina Seyie, dieze Colony, Chümoukedima

not mental distance

A

s corona virus (COVID-19) pandemic sweeps across the world, it is causing concern, fear and stress, all of which are natural and normal reactions to the changing and uncertain situation that everyone finds themselves in.

Millions of lives have been significantly altered, and global, multi-level, and demanding stress-copingadjustment process is ongoing. There has been steep rise in patients with mental illness since the pandemic of COVID-19.

Most of us has sense of loss of control as situations not entirely in our hands and uncertainty when it will end. There is fear that our loved ones might succumb to infection despite precautions and also feeling deprived of free movement in society which may eventually lead to changes in sleep pattern, difficult in concentrating or increased use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs.

Staying at home can be quite nice for sometime but can also be boring and restricting. Here are some ways to keep positive and cheerful: - distract yourself from negative emotions by listening to music, reading, watching an entertaining programme.

- rediscover your hobbies - be physically active, do simple indoor exercise - eat well and drink plenty of fluids - have regular schedule and help in doing some of the work at home - make sure to access and believe only most reliable sources of information for self protection. Do not follow sensational news - stick to the known advice: hand hygiene and social distancing - avoid tobacco, alcohol and other drugs - sharing is caring: understand if someone around you needs advice, food or other essentials - if you have children at home, keep them busy by allowing them to help the household chores. Make them feel responsible and acquire new skills.

Feeling lonely or sad is also quite common. Stay connected with others. Call up people whom you haven’t spoken to and surprise them. Discuss happy events, common interests, exchange cooking tips, share music.

Taking care of elderly people is also very important because most of them are very emotionally liable and you can help them out by spending time with them, cut down on listening to news, keep them busy on recreational activities. Stay home stay safe, we shall overcome someday. In God we trust.

Dr. C Manpa Phom MD Medicine

Reader’s Post

Sir,

Foolhardy optimism

Optimism may be a good coping mechanism amid this pandemic to reduce anxiety and make people feel less at risk, but this very optimism also makes them believe that negative events happen only to others and not to themselves or a close contact. Such individuals may be the ones putting others around them at risk, as they continue to engage in their usual routines, not taking any of the recommended precautionary measures.

We can take an optimistic outlook, but we should also adopt the recommended precautions by practicing good personal hygiene, social responsibility and social distancing.

Zuchano Ovung, 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.

Assam to relax transportation

People board a bus after state authorities eased restrictions on inter-district travel for 3 days. (PTI) G u wa h at i / Ag a r tala, April 25 (IANS): The Assam government will allow inter-district movement of nearly one lakh people from Saturday, officials said.

In most of the northeastern states, many shops and small business establishments were opened, but the latest Central government orders giving further relaxations to the lockdown restrictions are yet to percolate to the grassroots level.

5

northeast/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020

Health and Home Department officials in Guwahati On Saturday said that inter-district movement of nearly one lakh people would be facilitated over the next three days from Saturday.

“The steps have been taken to facilitate the stranded people in 33 distrcts across Assam to return home, join offices or visit hospitals while strictly adhering to the lockdown norms, including social distancing and hygiene,”

said an official. According to the officials, around 50,000 people are expected to use their own vehicles for one-way trip and over 40,000 are likely to be provided free-of-cost public transportation through the Assam State Transport Corporation buses by the state government.

The deputy commissioners of respective districts are issuing one-way passes to the people to travel by their vehicles.

Assam Health Minis-

ter Himanta Biswa Sarma while talking to the media in Guwahati on Friday said: “This is not a blanket permission for all people, but would be conditional.

People can avail of this scope for three days (April 25 to 26) only with the prior approval of the deputy commissioners. Those stuck in other districts can return home and such movements would be only single way for home-bound people and office-bound employees as most state government offices have resumed functioning with stipulated restrictions.”

The minister said the ailing people required to visit hospitals and their companions would also be issued passes by deputy commissioner, who would issue the permit after examining the applications.

Meanwhile, Assam and other governments in the northeastern states are issuing public notifications to restart shops and small business establishments in most of the localities.

Main markets, big business establishments, shopping malls, departmental stores are closed as usual due to the lockdown, which would continue till May 3.

M’laya urges Centre for 2 more testing facilities

Tripura govt orders probe into misuse of funds in procuring COVID-19 test kits

S h i l long, A p r 2 5 (PTI): The Meghalaya government has urged the Centre to allow setting up of two more testing facilities in the state to tackle the novel coronavirus outbreak, Health Minister A L Hek said on Saturday.

One COVID-19 patient has died in Meghalaya while 11 others are afflicted with the disease so far. There is only one testing facility in the state, at the North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) here.

“I have urged Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Dr Harsh Vardhan to consider increasing the testing facilities in the state,” Hek told PTI. He had attended a video conference with the Union health minister on Friday.

The state health minister said he has proposed setting up of one testing facility each at the NEIGRIHMS here and the Tura Civil Hospital in West Garo Hills district. “This will go a long way in helping the government effectively combat COVID-19,” he said.

Agartala, Apr 25 (PTI): The Tripura government has ordered a probe into an alleged misappropriation of funds for purchasing COVID-19 test kits and other materials under the National Health Mission (NHM) and removed two officials for an “impartial enquiry”, a minister said on Saturday.

State finance secretary Tanushree Debbarma and urban development department’s secretary Kiran Gitte have been asked to enquire into the misuse of the resources, and submit a report at the earliest, state law minister Ratan Lal Nath said.

“Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb has ordered an enquiry into the matter after former health minister and BJP MLA Sudip Roy Barman wrote to him, alleging that the government’s fund was misused in procuring COVID-19 kits,” Nath said.

State health secretary Dr Debashish Basu and NHM director Aditi Majumder were removed from their present posts for an “unbiased and impartial enquiry”, he said.

Ratan Lal Nath

Roy Barman alleged that bottles of hand sanitiser were procured at a price, higher than the maximum rate fixed by the Centre. “...the Centre has fixed the rate of hand sanitiser in a gazette notification as not more than Rs 100 per bottle of 200 ml. The prices of other quantities of hand sanitiser shall be fixed in the proportion of the price.

“NHM Mission director placed an order for 500 ml hand sanitiser at Rs 359 including GST, nearly 20 days after the central guidelines arrived,” Roy Barman alleged in his letter.

According to the government guidelines, the price of a 500 ml hand sani-

tiser should not be higher than Rs 250, he said.

Accusing a section of the health department officials of violating central guidelines for procuring the product, he claimed that “Rs 5.45 lakh was paid in excess for supply of 5,000 such hand sanitiser bottles during the crisis of COVID- 19 outbreak and the lockdown”.

“The orders for coronavirus test kits were placed at Rs 2,912 per piece against the price of Rs 1,150 from the previous order three days back,” Roy Barman, who was divested of the state health department’s charge last year, said.

The chief minister is currently holding the health portfolio as additional charge.

Roy Barman, further, alleged that the health department has “miserably failed to store and make necessary data entry of the COVID-19 related stock (mask, soap, sanitiser, hand wash etc.) as received from various government agencies, PSUs, private bodies under their CSR activities”.

Army neutralises two DNLA cadres in Karbi Anglong M’laya Speaker to hold meeting with govt, opposition Kohima, Apr 25: Troops of Indian Army in a joint operation with Assam Police neutralised two armed cadres of Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA) near Dhansiri Reserve Forest in Karbi Anglong District of Assam on April 24.

A press release by PRO defence stated that based on a specific intelligence input regarding presence of cadres of the insurgent group, the troops launched a swift operation in the area.

The armed insurgents taken by surprise opened fire, which was promptly and effectively retaliated by the troops. In the ensuing firefight, two cadres of the proscribed group were eliminated.

Items seized from the slain cadres

The two slain cadres have been identified SS Lt RupsonThausen Gaddain ( 26) a recruitment incharge of the group and SS PvtAldwinJigdung (38).

The team also recovered one M-16 rifle, one AK-56 rifle and assorted ammunition. No casualty has been sustained by the security forces.

The bodies of the eliminated cadres along with recovered arms and ammunition have been handed over to Dhansiri Police Station for further investigations.

The meticulously executed and clean operation by security forces has ensured the peace and normalcy in the region is upheld at all times.

Correspondent

S HILL O N G , APRIL 24: Meghalaya Assembly Speaker, Metbah Lyngdoh will hold a meeting with the State government and opposition Congress party to discuss matter related to the war against COVID-19 on Saturday.

“I have summoned for a meeting at MLA Hostel, Conference tomorrow to discuss on the COVID-19 pandemic in the State,” Lyngdoh said.

He said the meeting will be attended by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Leader of Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma besides Chief Secretary M.S.Rao among others.

Chief Minister Sangma told reporters said that the idea of holding meeting is to bring forth ideas, suggestions and inputs to tackle COVID-19 in the State.

Meghalaya, which was free from COVID-19 until April 13, has now recorded 12 active COVID-19 cases out of which one has died to the virulent virus .

Sangma said that out of 1,130 sample tested so far, 1,048 have yielded negative results and the outcome of 70 samples are awaited. He added that 70 more swab samples have been sent for testing on Friday.

Informing that health authorities have traced 181 primary contacts and 3,003 secondary contacts of the

Metbah Lyngdoh

positive COVID-19 patients, the Chief Minister said, “all primary contacts under home quarantine are being visited by a team of doctors in their residence and being monitored very closely.”

Moreover, he said all primary contacts under home quarantine are being

visited by a team of doctors in their residence and being monitored very closely.

“There are 48 teams formed by the Deputy Commissioners office in East Khasi Hills to carry out home visits for all secondary contacts,” he said, adding that all the other individuals are under home quarantined for self isolation for 14 days and are to report to the authorities if any symptoms appear.

Altogether, 5,503 persons are in home quarantine, while 300 others are under institutional quarantine, the Chief Minister said.

Sangma said that line listing is being conducted by the ASHAs in all the districts.

State CCDUK on plight of private commercial drivers DIMAPUR: Chakhesang Commercial Driver’s Union Kohima (CCDUK) has urged the state government to address the plight of private commercial vehicle drivers in the state. A press release from CCDUK president Zapove Sakha and general secretary Vekuvoyi Lohe stated that commercial vehicle drivers have nobody to look for help during such critical situation.

Stating that strict lockdown has caused immense hardship especially to the private commercial vehicle drivers, the union pointed out that most of those drivers were living in rented houses with families and dependent solely on their salaries. CCDUK stated that monthly salary of local taxi/zonal taxi drivers and Mini Bus/Tata Mobile drivers were not even enough to maintain their family, whereby some family members were even compelled to work for daily wages. CCDUK therefore has called upon responsible authority to consider the plight of the drivers.

Financial assistance & relief ration distribution to needy households Relief to needy families in Seyochung-Sitimi A/C: Minster of Soil & Water Conservation, Geology & Mining and NSMDC Ltd, V. Kashiho Sangtam along with advisor, School Education K. Tokugha Sukhalu assigned to monitor the implementation of effective measures for prevention and control of COVID-19 in Kiphire district, distributed relief materials to targeted 800 needy households of 59th Seyochung-Sitimi A/C on Thursday and Friday. The items provided included essential commodities and certified hand sanitizer. Kashiho appealed all the general public of 59th Seyochung- Sitimi A/C to stay indoors, maintain social distancing, avoid unnecessary travel and to take care of the elderly.

Relief to each household in Suruhuto: Advisor of Tourism, Art and Culture, H. Khehovi visited his 33 Suruhuto constituency with combat equipments such as mask, hand sanitizer, PPE, sanitizing spray machine. A press release informed that Khehovi visited all villages under his constituency and distributed a bag of rice each to every household. Advisor also distributed LADP to every village on the village household ratio basis exactly as received from the government by maintaining the policy of transparency and accountability. Advisor appealed to the villagers to concentrate on traditional practice of agricultural farming for self sustenance and survival. Khehovi also lamented that many village dwellers have stopped

farming practices and were now after easy money which was very disheartening. Advisor challenged his constituency people that he will reward the highest grain harvester from all the villages at the year end on first, second and third basis.

Dhasiripar and Urra areas: Azheto Zhimomi, MLA took the initiative to provide relief materials to needy families under Dhansiripar and Urra areas on Saturday. Relief materials are being provided phase wise to the entire areas and villages under the constituency.

NAP Delhi donates to stranded Nagas: Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) posted in Delhi, had donated an amount of Rs 1.5 lakhs for providing rations to the stranded Nagas in Delhi and national capital region (NCR) areas on April 24. A press release from NAP Delhi stated that, deputy commandant Thepuzhoyi Tenyi along with Khriebeinuo Kense deputy commandant handed over the money to Nagaland House Control Centre Delhi (NHCCD) through DRC Kethosituo Sekhose and SMO Dr Hentok Phom. student unions, tribal forum elders, pastors and NHCC Delhi are participating in the humanitarian task for providing rations to needy Nagas at Delhi and NCR areas.

Industrial Village Razhüphe: Village Council of Industrial Village Razhüphe distributed rice to more than 500 households free of cost in the village on April

22 and 23. A press release from VC of Industrial Village Razhüphe stated that, head GB waived off one month rent of IVR FPS and C. Yapang Pongener, VCM contributed one third the cost of the rice for free distribution.

NNF Mon donates toward DTF COVID-19: Mon unit of Nagaland NGOs Forum (NNF) donated Rs 12,000 (twelve thousand only) through DC Mon Thavaseelan K, to District Task Force COVID-19 on April 8. A press release from NNF president Hamkai Arolim stated that, it also pledged to stand by the administration in the fight against the pandemic. NNF also informed that any registered societies from Mon district can register under NNF Mon unit.

State BJYM: Bharatiya Janata Youth Morcha (BJYM) president Benjamin Yepthomi with Arvind Damani North East co-incharge BJYM and state BJYM vice president Inoto Kinimi donated essential relief to around for 220 widows/needy households of Notun Bosti Colony on April 25 at council hall.

A press release from Notun Bosti Council Dimapur chairman E. Jon Ezung and secretary Kavito Ayemi has lauded the gesture of state BJYM team.

Elia Groups of companies: ELIA Groups of companies led by Solomon Steward Phaomei, regional head, Dimapur along with Chichanthung Shitiri, area coordinator NSRLM- RD department distributed food to vulnerable groups, NGOs, and impoverished

church groups as well as frontline health workers in and around Dimapur district. A press release from organisers stated that, essential food items were handed over to affected groups. The contribution was handed over to the Eden Medical Hospital and NGOs and orphanages namely Wondang Ki-Orphanage Home, Bethesda, People in Need Foundation, Akimbo Society, Guardian Angel, Baseleia Mission Organisation and CAD Foundation.

C&SS Mokokchung: Care and Support Society (C&SS) Mokokchung donated 25 kgs of rice to daily wagers and economically poor families on April 24 at Tsümarshiyong, Chungtia, Mokokchung.

78 Bn CRPF: 78 Bn CRPF under the command of Dy Inspector General Operations Syamchand and Second in Command a/w Jawans of 78 CRPF P K Mishra handed over food commodities to public at Chedema village on April 25.

Assam Rifles: Mokokchung and Tuensang Battalions reached out to locals from Mokokchung and Bethel Children Home, Tuensang on April 24, respectively and provided essential rations and 50 masks for children of Bethel Home. According to PRO (Defence), further as part of its ongoing fight against COVID-19, Mon Battalion also distributed 200 improvised masks to ADC Naginimora on April 22 for further distribution to residents. Battalion also carried out decontamination of public places at Naginimora town.

K Y M C

DC-387

DIMAPUR: DOT Talks in collaboration with Tetso College and in continuation of its lecture series conducted the first webinar on the topic “The short story – A reappraisal” on April 20, with Dr. Ananya Ghoshal, assistant professor of English in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at IIT Indore as resource person.

A press release from Tetso College stated that, purpose of the talk was to provide an insight into the literary genre of short stories with an emphasis on its structure, elements, formats, techniques, etc. of storytelling. The second DOT Talks webinar titled “Cultivating positive mental health during the COVID-19 Pandemic” was held on April 23 with assistant professor of Psychology Nouzhienino Peseyie, Tetso College. He disseminated practical and theoretical information on how to cultivate positive mental health in order to prevent anxiety, worry, and depression, and help the individual be an asset for one’s family and society. The next webinar will be held on the topic “Legal implications of Covid-19” on April 28 to be presented by Dr. Aniruddha Babar, assistant professor of Political Science, Tetso College. The event is open for all and can be accessed by going to the link: bit.ly/dottalks0428. Meanwhile, Tetso College will be organizing a free webinar on April 28 for institutions shifting to online pedagogy. Interested institutions can register for the event by visiting the college website (tetsocollege.org).

DC-388

Tetso College conducts webinar lecture

K Y M C

6

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020

US accounts for most COVID-19 deaths Second round of post-Brexit Washington, Apr 25 (PTI): The United States accounts for more than one fourth of the global COVID-19 deaths and over one-third of the total number of people infected with the deadly virus, latest figures revealed on Friday.

The coronavirus pandemic that started from Wuhan City in China in November, 2019 has so far killed more than 195,000 people across the world and infected more than 27 lakh.

The United States, which has been the worst hit by coronavirus alone accounts the highest number so far; wherein more than 9.2 lakh Americans have tested positive for COVID19 and the fatalities count on Friday stood at 51,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

In fact, the number of COVID-19 cases in the US is more than the next six countries taken together: Spain (219,764), Italy (192,994), France (159,495), Germany (154,545), United Kingdom (144,635) and Turkey (104,912).

Despite accounting for the largest number of fatalities, the death rate,

People wearing masks to protect against coronavirus, line up for a mobile food pantry at Barclays Center in the Brooklyn borough of New York. (AP/PTI)

however, in the US is much lower than other countries, according to Johns Hopkins University.

So far, 51,000 people have died due to COVID19 in US, followed by Italy (25,969), Spain (22,524), France (22,245), and United Kingdom (19,506).

In the United States, New York accounts for the largest number of fatalities (17,671) with 271,890 confirmed cases.

H oweve r, t h e U S seems to be past its peak.

“Nationwide the per

SL to lift nationwide curfew on Monday

Colombo, Apr 25 (PTI): Sri Lanka will lift the nationwide curfew imposed to stem the spread of the coronavirus on Monday, police said as the total number of infections in the country surged past 400.

The island nation reported its highest number of 49 infections in a single day on Friday. A new cluster was reported as a Sri Lankan Navy facility was found to have 30 COVID19 cases.

The country has till Friday recorded 414 cases with 7 deaths. Over 100 of them have fully recovered.

In a statement issued on Saturday, police said that the curfew will be lifted at 5 am on April 27.

There was no indication on its re-imposition.

However, analysts say the curfew could be re-imposed

as a new statement is expected to be issued by the authorities over the weekend.

Sri Lanka has been under a 24-hour curfew since March 20 to combat the deadly viral infection.

The government had on Monday dropped its decision to relax the nationwide curfew and extended it to April 27 following a sudden spike in the number of COVID-19 cases.

However, there has been intermittent lifting of the curfew in selected areas which were not seen as dangerous for the spread of the deadly virus.

Health officials said that during this week, they have increased the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) tests and the aim is to conduct around 100 PCR tests per day.

cent of tests that come back positive has declined very significantly,” President Donald Trump told reporters at his daily White House news conference on coronavirus.

Last week, roughly 38 per cent of the tests in New York were positive; this week that number is down to 28 percent. New cases in New York are down 50 per cent compared to a week ago, and fatalities are down 40 per cent over the same period, he said.

In Louisiana, the rate

Rio de Janeiro, Apr 25 (IANS): Football may be going through its richest phase right now financially but Brazilian football legend Pele feels that we are currently not in a golden age as far as the quality of players is concerned.

The three-time World Cup winner, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, said that there are not as many truly great players in countries that are strong in the sport.

“Once, you found two or three in every country

with a great football culture,” Pelé told SportStar. “Eusébio, [António] Simões, [Johan] Cruyff, [Franz] Beckenbauer, [Diego] Maradona, Garrincha, Didi. How many did I say?

There were so many.”

“Today, we have two or three in all. (Lionel) Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, I would say Neymar ­-- who in Brazil has not yet managed to become a great figure.”

N e y m a r wa s c o n sidered as the player who would take over as the best in the world after Messi

talks makes limited progress

Lo n d o n, A p r 2 5 (IANS): The first week of talks on a permanent post-Brexit trade deal between the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) ended on Friday.

“Limited progress” was made and vast differences remained.

The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said in Brussels that the first round of three negotiating sessions had been disappointing, Xinhua news agency reported.

Talks led by Barnier and the UK’s chief negotiator David Frost were the first for two months after stalling because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Statements issued by both sides pointed to a mountain to climb if real progress is to be made by June. The end of June has been set as the cut-off point for an agreement to extend the current implementation period beyond December 31, 2020.

The UK left the EU on January 31, but is sticking to the bloc’s rules until the end of this year. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson insists that his country is sticking

Haley launches ‘Stop Communist China’ campaign

Nikki Haley

Washington, Apr 25 (PTI): Asserting that China’s Communist government needs to be held accountable for “lying” about the coronavirus pandemic, top Indian-American Republican politician Nikki Haley has launched an online petition urging the US Congress to act.

More than 40,000 people have signed the ‘Stop Communist China’ petition by Friday night, hours after being launched by the former governor of South Carolina who has set

Football not in a golden age at present, says Pele

Pele

of positive test result declined from 25 per cent down to 15 per cent in the last seven days alone.

As many as 18 states now show a decline in a number of positive tests in the last seven days which is a very, very significant progress, Trump said.

As a result, half of all Americans live in states that have now taken steps to open their economies, Trump said, a day earlier California, Minnesota, and Tennessee announced additional plans to restart

certain sectors.

“We ask every American to maintain vigilance and hygiene, social distancing, and voluntary use of face coverings. We are opening our country.

It’s very exciting to see,” he said.

Trump said that he spoke to Tim Cook of Apple and that they have a good sense of the market.

“He feels it’s going to be a V. The V is sharply upward later on as we actually get it fully open,” he said.

Earlier in the day, Trump signed a Paycheck Protection Program and Healthcare Enhancement Act providing USD 320 billion to keep American workers on the payroll.

Of this USD 30 billion of the Paycheck Protection funds will be reserved for small financial institutions, including those that serve minority and distressed communities, extending vital relief to thousands of African American and Hispanic American smallbusiness owners and their employees.

More than 80 million Americans have already received their payment USD 3400 for a typical family of four.

and Ronaldo phase out.

The Brazilian even finished third in the race to the Ballon d’Or in 2015. However since his word record transfer from Barcelona to Paris St Germain, injuries have led to the 28-year-old not attaining that heights that were expected off him.

Pele however believes that Neymar is an excellent player and hopes that he comes good at the 2022 Qatar World Cup. “I hope that at the next World Cup he is in good physical condition,” he added. “People criticise him, I even did it a few times, but we forget that he is a product of ours, of Santos. We always want the best for him. I talk about him often with his father.

Technically, he is an excellent player.”

Both Messi and Ronaldo are in their 30’s but continue to dominate football.

Pele said that he considers Messi as the most complete player and that he would have loved to play alongside him.

“He [Messi] is a skilled player, gives assists, passes, scores, dribbles well,” he said. “If we were in the team together, the opponents should worry about two players, not just one!

Today, Messi is the most complete player.”

a goal of getting 100,000 signatures.

“China’s Communist government needs to be held accountable for their role in lying about the Coronavirus pandemic, and the US Congress needs to respond – now,” said 48year-old Haley, a former US Ambassador to the United Nations.

“Join us in our fight to stop China from gaining influence in America and around the world. Sign this petition and please share with your friends,” she added.

“Sign our petition to stop the Chinese Communist government’s deception and manipulation.

We need Congress to act NOW to prevent China’s growing influence,” the petition said.

Among other things, the petition urges members of Congress to probe

whether China covered up the coronavirus outbreak, end the United States’ reliance on China for critical medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, make China pay its fair share to the United Nations, back Taiwan against China’s bullying, and mandate all US colleges to disclose Chinese funding.

Early this week, she called for an emergency Security Council meeting on China’s involvement and knowledge of the virus.

Haley has been a fierce critic of China.

“As soon as the UN opens again, the US should call for an emergency Security Council meeting on China’s involvement and knowledge of the virus.

When did they know & decisions made. If ever the was a time to have a world discussion, it would be following this pandemic,”

sports

FIFA to distribute $150 mn to members

Zurich, Apr 25 (IANS): FIFA, the world football governing body, has announced that it will distribute $150 million to member associations over the next few days as the first step of a relief plan to assist the football community impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Each member association will receive $500,000, along with any other remaining funds they were due to receive.

FIFA, in a statement, said that the operational funding for 2020 and 2019 will be paid to 211 national governing bodies across the globe.

“The pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for the entire football community and, as the world governing body, it is FIFA’s duty to be there and support the ones that are facing acute needs,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“This starts by providing immediate financial assistance to our member

associations, many of which are experiencing severe financial distress.”

“This is the first step of a far-reaching financial relief plan we are developing to respond to the emergency across the whole football community. Together with our stakeholders, we are we assessing the losses and we are working on the most appropriate and effective tools to implement the other stages of this relief plan,” he added.

FIFA said that the immediate financial assistance should be used to mitigate the financial impact of COVID-19 on football in member associations, namely to meet financial or operational obligations that they may have towards staff and other third parties. The entire sporting calendar has come to a grinding halt because of the coronavirus pandemic which has so far claimed over 1.9 lakh lives across the world.

Haley said in a tweet.

Responding to her tweet, the Chinese Ambassador to the UN Zhang Jun asserted that his country has nothing to hide.

“All the facts are on the table. Epidemics may occur anywhere. The most important thing is to defeat the virus and save lives.

China has done its job and is now working hard in helping others. Attempts of scapegoating or stigma go nowhere,” Zhang said.

If that is the case, Haley argued than China would have no problem in a Security Council meeting on the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’m assuming you would have no problem expressing that in a Security Council meeting. Other countries including the US have some questions we would like answered,” Haley said.

Michel Barnier speaks about the trade agreement with UK during a press conference on April 24.

to the deadline.

The UK has insisted that it wants a Canada-style relationship based on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), supplemented by separate international agreements. The UK has maintained that it will be a fully independent and sovereign country from January 1, 2021, with no alignment with EU law and no jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice (ECJ).

A UK gover nment spokesperson described the negotiating round as full and constructive, conducted remotely by video conference. “However, limited progress was made in bridging the gaps between us and the EU,” the spokesperson said.

Barnier, in a briefing after the first round of talks ended, said there were four areas where progress was disappointing, including what kind of access the UK could have to the European single market after Brexit, as well as on justice and fisheries.

Barnier said at his video press conference, “It is important for all stakeholders to have a long term, durable arrangement. It will be hard for both sides, but I believe we can do it.”

Barnier said the UK needed to quickly provide firm guarantees rather than vague principles on fundamental rights and individual freedoms, otherwise it would face serious limitations for a security partnership.

Putin signs law moving WWII end day to September 3

Vladimir Putin

M o s c ow, A p r 2 5 (IANS): Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a bill into law moving the end day of World War II from September 2 to September 3.

The bill was passed by the lower house of the country’s parliament on April 14 and the upper house on April 17, reports Xinhua news agency.

Ptun signed the bill into law on Friday.

The lower house has said that the transfer was to

“strengthen the historical foundations and patriotic traditions, preserve historical justice in relation to the victors in World War II, and perpetuate a worthy memory of those who died in the defense of the Fatherland”.

Japan signed surrender documents on the deck of the US battleship Missouri at Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945.

Authors of the bill considered a Soviet decree in 1945 declaring September 3 the day of victory over Japan.

Some 1.8 million people were awarded the “Victory over Japan” medal with September 3, 1945 inscribed on the back.

In 2010, Russia’s upper house of parliament approved that September 2 was the end day of World War II.

Kapil, Imran, Botham among Sachin’s favourite all-rounders

Kapil Dev

Imran Khan

Ian Botham

New Delhi, Apr 25 (IANS): Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar celebrated his 47th birthday on Friday and interacting with fans, the legend also shared the list of his five favourite allrounders in the world of cricket.

Speaking on Star Sports’ Cricket Connected show, he said, “I grew up watching the top five allrounders of the world. I played with one of them which is Kapil Dev. Second would be when I had gone on to my first tour to Pakistan and played against

Imran Khan.

“The third was playing against Sir Richard Hadlee on my second tour to New Zealand. Then in Australia I played against Malcom Marshall and Ian Botham.

So, these are my top five all-rounders whom I grew up watching play and later, had the opportunity to play against them.”

For someone who is considered a legend due to his achievements on the cricketing field, Tendulkar wants every person to stay indoors and follow the guidelines of the govern-

ment as they fight the pandemic.

“My message to my loved ones is that for so many years they have wished well for me and my way of wishing well for them would be to give them a message that they should stay at home and be safe. Whenever I went out to bat, they wanted me to score runs and not get out. So here, I want them to stay safe and secure and stay healthy and not get out. Like they wanted me to stay in the crease, I want them to stay in the crease,” he smiled.

French Open aiming for September 27 start: Report

Paris, Apr 25 (IANS): The 2020 French Open is now aiming to start on September 27. The clay court Grand Slam was postponed from its initial date of May 24-June 7 to September due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The new date for the tournament was initially set as September 20 but Le Parisien newspaper states that this could be pushed back to September 27.

The announcement of the postponement was first made in March as France

was beginning its lockdown to deal with the pandemic.

A number of players expressed surprise over the decision which they said was made without consulting anyone.

Wimbledon announced that the 2020 sea-

son has been cancelled.

It was the first instance of the Wimbledon getting cancelled since the Second World War. It was to be played from June 29 to July 12.

While there has been no decision announced yet

on the US Open, the women’s tournament of the Rogers Cup was cancelled.

Richard Lewis, chief executive of Wimbledon stated that it “won’t be unrealistic to say that there may be no more tennis this year.”

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