December 12, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 10

DIMAPUR, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020 Pages 12 ` 5.00

Lack of facilities, resources affecting sportsmen: Rio sports, Page 12

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HC serves notice on state govt

ACAUT, PAC, BAN file PIL with HC against rampant illegal taxations DIMAPUR, DEC 11 (NPN): In a significant development, Gauhati High Court, Kohima bench Friday admitted a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by three organizations-- Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) Nagaland, Public Action Committee (PAC) and Business Association of Nagaland (BAN) over rampant collection of taxes in Nagaland.

The State government represented by the chief secretary, chairperson of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes (Government of India), commissioner & secretary Municipal Affairs, commissioner of Nagaland, commissioner of Taxes, DMC administrator, KMC administrator and DGP Nagaland have been made respondents in the PIL. A two-judge bench comprising of Justice S. Serto and Justice S. Hukato Swu in the order dated December 11, 2020 served notices on the above respondents made returnable within five weeks.

The senior government advocate accepted the notice

JP Nadda’s visit to State postponed KOHIMA, DEC 11 (NPN): National BJP president, JP Nadda’s visit to Nagaland has been cancelled due to some “technical issues”, the state BJP informed on Friday. This was the second time that Nadda’s visit had to be cancelled. He was earlier scheduled to visit on December 2 and later postponed to December 14-15.

State BJP president, Temjen Imna Along informed Nagaland Post that the visit had to be cancelled following the recent attack on his convoy in West Bengal. He is scheduled to visit in January 2021, Along said. (Correspondent)

3 NPS officers conferred IPS

DIMAPUR, DEC 11 (NPN): Government of India has appointed three Nagaland Police Service (NPS) officers to the Indian Police Service (IPS) and allocated the Nagaland cadre under sub-rule (1) of the rule 5 of the IPS (cadre) rules, 1954. The three NPS officers include-- Jatila Jamir, Kevithuto Sophie and Narola Spohie. They will remain on probation for a period of one year and obtain induction training as per sub-rule 5(4) of IPS (probation) rules, 1954, MHA under secretary R Nirmal stated in a notification issued on December 9.

This is it!

“Don’t worry, I’ll give you our ancient Indian medicine to stop that Chinese virus.”

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on behalf of all respondents except respondent No. 2 (Central Board of Indirect Taxes). The petitioners have been asked to take steps to serve notice to respondent No. 2 within three days.

The court has listed the matter for further hearing after the winter vacation.

In the PIL, the petitioners noted that they had been fighting for the cause of the people over the years in matters relating to illegal taxation and were well conversant with the trend of taxation in the State.

While highlighting in detail about how various government departments, Naga political groups etc. had been collecting tax, the petitioners stated that the PIL has been filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of praying for the Court’s intervention to pass necessary directives with regard to the existing illegal taxation plaguing the State of Nagaland and consequently pushing the public to bear the brunt with untold hardships and sufferings.

The petition also stated that a representation, dated

November 25, 2020 was sent to the respondents (No. 1-8) praying for necessary action and steps. However, the petitioners expressed regret that till date no action had been taken for resolving the grievances highlighted in the representation.

The petitioners also submitted before the Court that they were not challenging the Goods & Services Tax or any other tax imposed legally in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.

They, however, pointed out that the menace of illegal taxation prevailing in the State has been creating fear and resentment amongst businessmen and the public, paying the cost for the unlawful taxation imposed on the entrepreneurs and businessmen. This has violated the fundamental rights of the people to live with dignity, to live without fear and freedom to profess any profession and right to equality and equal protection of law guaranteed by the Constitution as well as by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, they said.

In the PIL, the petitioners also compiled a brief fact finding report on the illegal taxation imposed on the entrepreneurs/business persons, truck drivers.

For instance, it pointed out that Manipur trucks carrying goods and essential items pay money to the organizations, associations, police, undergrounds and others starting from entering Nagaland gate-DimapurKohima-Khuzama Police check gate. However, they said that the prices of essential items in Manipur were cheaper than Nagaland.

They maintained that this was because taxation does not end after collection from the wholesale dealers/ truck drivers at various check gates, but the chain goes down to collection of money illegally from retailer shops, markets, wholesale dealer shops, street vendors and all other commercial outlets.

ACAUT as well as PAC have been at the forefront in exposing the rampant collection of illegal taxes multiple times for the same items besides the prevalence of market syndicates that

Anti-CAA protests begin in Assam

Protestors during the a rally in Nagaon district on Friday. (PTI)

GUWAHATI, DEC 11 (PTI): Fresh agitation against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) was launched by 18 organisations in Assam on Friday demanding repeal of the legislation and release of jailed KMSS leader Akhil Gogoi who was taken into custody during the protests last year.

Protest rallies were taken out across Assam by the organisations, including Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti, All Assam Students Union (AASU),

Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad, Lachit Sena, besides students, and youth organisations of ethnic communities.

Mentioning that the CAA was against the identity, language and cultural heritage of the indigenous people of the state, the protestors demanded that the Act be rolled back.

Addressing the rallies, leaders of the organisations said, the people will give a “fitting reply” to the BJP-led dispensation in Assam in the

Assembly elections for allegedly “betraying the people by imposing the CAA upon them despite protests, since its introduction in Parliament till its enactment”. The state Assembly polls are due in March-April next year.

AASU, which had launched the six-year long anti-foreigners Assam Movement (1979-1985), has called for a ‘Rono Hungkar’ (clarion call for war against CAA) from Saturday on the first ‘anniversary’ of the anti-CAA agitation. AASU hoisted black flag at its headquarters here and displayed such flags in seven NE states under aegis of North East Students Organisation demanding roll back of the CAA, AASU chief advisor Samujjal Bhattacharya told reporters. Bhattacharya said that AASU and NESO will continue the movement till the CAA is scrapped. Five persons had lost their lives during the anti-CAA protests in Guwahati last year.

EU leaders clinch deal on tougher 2030 climate goal

nagalandpostofficial

manipulate sale and fixation of commodities at inflated rates. These have pushed up prices of commodities since traders pass on the burden on buyers. According to sources from ACAUT and PAC, the entire illegal collection racket has assumed menacing proportions with elements forming syndicates to facilitate collections so as not to depend solely on gate collections.

Meanwhile, commissioner of Taxes, Kesonyu Yhome, in response to the November 25 representation

by ACAUT, PAC and BAN, informed that the collection of entry tax/octroi had been subsumed under GST. In view of the above, Yhome said that entry tax/octroi were no longer levied separately by the department of Taxes.

In his letter dated December 5, Yhome also informed that the department had closed down all tax booths at check gates since August 3, 2017 and therefore no personnel of the department were manning static tax booths anywhere in the state.

international, Page 9

Doctors hold nation-wide protest NEW DELHI, DEC 11 (PTI): Scores of doctors at several hospitals in Delhi and other cities across the country joined the protest call of the IMA on Friday against the Centre’s move allowing post-graduate practitioners of Ayurveda to be trained to perform surgical procedures.

Indian Medical Association (IMA) had given the nationwide call for withdrawal of non-essential and non-COVID services on Friday in protest against the notification by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), stating that it will lead to “mixopathy” and demanding withdrawal of the notification.

In a statement, the IMA said a large number of doctors at various hospitals across the country responded to the call and withdrew services, which affected patients.

IMA’s call had sought withdrawal of non-essential and non-COVID services between 6 am and 6 pm on Friday to protest against the notification. CCIM notification to allow legal practice of surgeries by Ayurveda practitioners and formation of four committees by NITI Aayog for integration of all

ENSF temporarily suspends agitation DIMAPUR, DEC 11 (NPN): Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) Friday announced its decision to temporarily suspend its agitation after considering an appeal letter from the cabinet sub-committee.

ENSF vice president Hamnyei Angh and assistant general secretary Kumcho Khiungphu said that the decision was taken after thorough deliberation and serious discussion at the emergency presidential meeting held at Tuensang headquarters. The signatories, however, said that the federation has set a deadline for the cabinet to fulfil the ENSF charter of demand (NSSB&NPSC) before January 10, 2021.

Failure to fulfil its genuine demand, the ENSF warned that it will “resume agitation in a more extreme form even up to the extent of taking law and order situation into its hand.”

The meeting was attended by ENSF and its six federating units-Confederation of Chang Students’ Union, Khaimniungan Students’ Union, Konyak Students’ Union, Phom Students’ Conference, United Sangtam Students’ Conference and Yimchunger Akheru Arih-Ako.

systems of medicine will only lead to “mixopathy”, IMA said.

IMA president Dr Rajan Sharma said, “Allowing doctors of Ayurveda to conduct surgeries would

be a compromise with the health of patients.”

AYUSH ministry has maintained that CCIM notification does not amount to any policy deviation or new decision.

Correspondent adds: Indian Medical Association Nagaland branch backed by Nagaland In service Doctors Association (NIDA) joined the IMA protest call by closing OPDs on Friday starting 6 a.m. till 6 p.m.

IMA Nagaland branch president Dr. Keditsu told Nagaland Post that all the MBBS doctors did not perform regular duties except for emergency OPDs and COVID related activities.

He said more than three lakh MBBS members across the country took part in today’s protest.

Since the protest was spearheaded by IMA, Dr. Keditsu said Nagaland branch would wait for IMA’s next course of action.

NIDA president Dr. E. Phyantsuthung informed that the protest ended peacefully. He also said that they would wait for IMA’s next directive.

Doctors in Nagaland join IMA protest

Farmers move SC against controversial farm laws; Centre ready to hold talks NEW DELHI, DEC 11 (PTI/ AGENCIES): The Bharatiya Kisan Union Friday moved the Supreme Court challenging the controversial agriculture laws, claiming that these legislations will make farmers “vulnerable to corporate greed”, news agency ANI reported.

Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, on the other hand, reiterated that the government is ready to talk with the farmers and urged them to stop agitation in the “interest of the common people” and take the path of discussion. He further said that the government is willing to make reforms in the laws after talks, ANI reported.

The government on Friday asked protesting farmers to be vigilant against their platform being misused, saying some “anti-social” as well as “Leftist and Maoist” elements are conspiring to spoil the atmosphere of the agitation even as the protesters stuck to their demands.

Photographs of some protesters at the Tikri border seen holding posters demanding release of activists arrested under various charges had

gone viral, prompting Agriculture Minister to say that these “anti-social elements” are conspiring to spoil the atmosphere of the peasants’ movement under the guise of farmers.

“A proposal to resolve the farmers’ objection has also been sent to the farmers union and the government is ready for further discussion,” Tomar tweeted.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait on Friday asserted that anything less than scrapping of the new agri laws won’t be accepted and if the government wants to talk, farmer leaders should be formally conveyed like in previous occasions.

The government had asked farmer groups to consider its proposals for amending the Acts to address their concerns and said it was open to discussing its offer further whenever the unions want.

Sit-in protest at DC offices: As the farmers’ agitation on the borders of Delhi continued, the farmers said now they will intensify their protests and sit on rail tracks and stage sit-in protests at DC offices across the country.

NCD president K. Ghokheto Chophy passes away Nagaland COVID tally 11,634 DIMAPUR, DEC 11 (NPN): Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) president and Joint Committee for Prevention of Illegal Immigrants (JCPI) convenor K. Ghokheto Chophy has passed away in New Delhi on Friday after a prolonged illness. Born in 1962 at Asukhomi village under Zunheboto district, Chophy had served as president of AUD from 2012-15 and was member of Sumi Council Dimapur. He was also counsellor of NCD, vice president of NCD (2015-19) and NCD president (September 2020 till date) Mourning the demise of Ghokheto Chophy, the state deputy chief minister Y Patton said “Nagas have suffered a terrible loss today.” In a tweet, Patton described late Chophy as “a thorough gentleman”, who would lead from the front.

The deputy chief minister also said that Chophy’s untimely death has “shaken and shocked us all.” He offered his condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed that the departed soul rest in peace.

Minister of Higher Education & Tribal Affairs, Temjen Imna Along also expressed deep grief over the untimely demise of Ghokheto Chophy. Along described Chophy as “a leader with a devoted sense of service to Nagaland & its people.” “His contributions in building the Naga Society will always inspire us. May his soul RIP,” Along said in a tweet.

NGBF: Nagaland Gaonburas Federation (NGBF) has expressed deep sadness over the untimely demise of NCD president Ghokheto Chopi and said that “in his demise, we have lost a com-

Late K. Ghokheto Chophy

mitted leader, especially for Dimapur people”.

NGBF through its media cell said that a vacuum created by his demise would be difficult to fill. “It was painful to learn that he has left so early leaving behind all his incomplete missions.

He has served in different civil organisations as subcommittees’ convenor in Dimapur,” NGBF said.

Further, the federation said that his contributions as a convenor of JCPI were some of his remarkable achievement. “He has high-

ly respect for the Gaonburas and work together in many occasions as a team,” NGBF said and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the departed soul rest in peace.

SCD: Sumi Council, Dimapur (SCD) expressed shock over the demise of NCD president Ghokheto Chophy and said that the people of Dimapur have lost a very good and helpful friend in his death.

In a condolence message, SCD president Kuhoi Zhimo said that late Chophy had a kidney transplant and was on the path of recovery when he was “snatched away from our midst.” Describing late Chophy as a dedicated social worker, SCD said he was available as and when his services were required by the society irrespective of caste, creed, and religion. SCD president

conveyed deep condolences to bereaved family members and prayed that the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

KTCN: Kachari Tribal Council Nagaland (KTCN) has expressed sorrow over the sudden demise of Ghokheto Chophy and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members. KTCN through its media cell said that in his demise “we have lost a good and capable leader”, who had always worked and stood for the rights and welfare of the people in Dimapur and the whole society in general.

DSSU: Expressing shock over the sudden demise of Ghokheto Chophy, the Dimapur Sümi Students’ Union (DSSU) said that he was a man of utmost integrity, honour and unflinching courage. (Cont’d on p-8)

COVID-19 STATUS AS ON december 11, 2020

ACTIVE CASES Symptomatic AsympCritical-ICU District tomMod- Se- With- With On atic Mild erate vere out Oxy- VentiOxygen gen lator Dimapur 161 17 3 1 0 0 3 Kiphire 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 Kohima 340 7 5 0 3 0 0 Longleng 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Mokokchung 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 Mon 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 Peren 17 2 0 0 0 0 0 Phek 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Tuensang 41 1 0 0 0 0 0

Death MiRecovunder Total Death gratered InvestiCases ed gation 3010 24 3197 9 116 579 473 44 195

41 1 21 0 1 2 0 0 1

3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wokha

7

0

0

0

0

0

0

28

1

0

Zunheboto Total

2 587

0 27

0 8

0 1

0 3

0 0

0 3

137 10812

0 68

0 3

72 0 22 9 4 9 0 0 0

6312 32 3594 18 123 600 492 44 238

3

39

3 142 122 11634

*7 deaths not due to Covid-19 *3 deaths under investigation

DIMAPUR, DEC 11 (NPN): Nagaland’s COVID19 tally rose to 11634 after 32 new cases were reported on Friday-- 18 in Kiphire, 11 in Peren and 3 in Dimapur.

Further, the distribution across various categories include 4629 cases from the armed forces/police, 1813 returnees, 4634 traced

contacts and 558 frontline workers.

PTI adds: India’s coronavirus cases mounted to 97,96,769 with 29,398 fresh infections, while the death toll rose to 1,42,186 with 414 new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The total number of recoveries surged to 92.90 lakh.

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state

Intl Human Rights Day observed

Members of DLSA and participants at the awareness programme in Mokokchung.

DIMAPUR: District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) and Tetso College observed the International Human Rights Day on December 10.

In Wokha, DLSA panel lawyer advocate Gracy Ezung spoke on various social welfare schemes and rights of women. On the occasion, legal pamphlets were also distributed to the participants. In Kohima, the DLSA in collaboration with All India Radio (AIR), Kohima held a talk show wherein Nagali Shohe and

Tongpangnungshi panel lawyers Kohima DLSA gave awareness on basic human rights, importance, who are entitled. They also deliberated on topics related to human rights basing on 2020 human rights day theme “Recover better - stand up for human rights”. Ajung, presenter for morning echoes programme, AIR Kohima was the interviewer.

Mokochung DLSA conducted legal awareness programme with women ministry, Artang Ward,

Mokokchung town.

Re t a i n e r L aw ye r, Mokokchung DLSA Limanungsang Jamir delivered the keynote address and explained the services rendered by the legal services authority. Purkumzuk from Social Welfare Department was the resource person of the day. He explained all the welfare schemes under the department. Mapujungla Pongen, Project Assistant Mokokchung DLSA talked on National Food Security Act and fundamental duties.

Tetso College: To commemorate the day, department of Political Science, Tetso College under the direction, guidance and leadership of Dr. Rimmei Longmei conducted third round table conference on the theme “Human Rights: Theory and Practice”.

Dr Rimmei Longmei, HoD in his address emphasized on the necessity of human rights and commemoration of the International Human Rights Day. He expressed his concerns towards the effective implementation of human rights.

Keynote speaker, Dr Antony Raj focused on the evolution and violation of human rights in the context of farm laws and ongoing protests.

Roundtable discussion was moderated by Dr. Vijaya Chamundeswari, where students expressed their views on wide ranging topics like ‘Interface between International Human Rights Law and International Humanitarian Law’ (Putionen Jamir), human rights violations and race and ethnicity (N Phewang Konyak), impact of climate change on

human rights (Ningning Newmai), human rights and minorities (Hotoka Shohe) and human rights issues in India (Bothuvi Chishi).

The session was vibrant with students focusing on reality of the various issues and concerns related to human rights while having theoretical perspectives.

Also, the special invitee, major Gen N. George (Rtd) spoke on the role of army in protecting human rights and emphasized on the necessity of institutional building.

He described students as the forbearers of the upholding of rights to focus on implementation.

Maj. Gen. N. George also shared his personal experiences and examples while discussing as to how Indian Armed Forces are fully committed to the ideals of human rights. The second speaker, Prem M, focused on theoretical aspects of human rights in India and tried to relate liberal- communitarian and continental philosophies with continental philosophy. He ended his lecture with recent case relating to social inequality.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Participants and officials of the one day training programme for UDA’s and above head office organised by Department of Water Resources at conference hall, chief engineer’s office, WRD, Kohima on December 11. (DIPR)

“The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” – Job 1:21 We, the bereaved family members of Late Dziesekholie Keretsü would like to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to each and everyone who stood by us and shared our grief and sorrow and supported us physically, emotionally, financially, materially and spiritually at the sudden and tragic demise of our beloved Father on 1st December 2020. Born: 02/10/1973 Died: 01/12/2020 We truly regret our inability to thank each individual personally but pray that Almighty God bless you all abundantly in return.

Loving Wife, Children and Relatives.

K-2025

NECU conducts 4TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY of Lt. Dr. Robin Yanthan NACS-III webinar DIMAPUR: North East Christian University (NECU) conducted webinar on 3rd annual Naga culture symposium (NACS-III) under the theme, “Cultural heritage of the Nagas: Indigenous tribes of the North East” on December 9.

A press release by the organising committee NACS-III, NECU, Dimapur stated that, invited speakers consultant psychiatrist and chairman, Kohima Educational Society, Dr. P. Ngully, professor of genetics and plant breeding NU-School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development, Dr. Sapu Changkija, lecturer Fazl Ali College, Dr. Adangla Changkija and founder, Runway Nagaland Nengneithem Henga spoke on various topics.

E a r l i e r, we l c o m e speech was delivered by Dr. Samson Chiru, faculty of international relations and vice chancellor North East Christian University , prof. Darlando Khathing delivered inaugural address.

Thanksgiving message was delivered by Dr. Ningsangrenla Longkumer, faculty of psychology and symposium coordinator.

The programme was moderated by Dr. Pfokrelo Kapesa, faculty of international relations and Neisakuonuo Tungoe, faculty of English. Around 60 students and faculty members from North East Christian University and various institutions from different states of the North East participated.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

LPO hits out at Ravi over statehood speech DIMAPUR: Lotha Public Organisation (LPO) has expressed “deep discomposure” on the statehood day speech of Nagaland governor R. N. Ravi, which it claimed has “ostensibly cold-shoulder” the Naga political movement for self-determination. In a statement, LPO chairman, Sulanthung Humtsoe and vice president, Phyobemo Odyuo stated that Ravi cannot play a dual role as governor and interlocutor in the negotiation and enforce law and order in the peace process, “as more damage has been done and created trust deficit within the Naga people and the negotiation”.

The organisation claimed that such “dogmatism” and “condescension” from Indian counterparts was never seen in Naga history. It stated that Ravi had “crest-

fallenly” failed to create “sanguine atmosphere” to hammer out the decade old protracted Indo-Naga political talk to an insightful conclusion with inclusive, honourable and acceptable solution.

LPO reminded Ravi that Indians and Nagas were two different people and nations and therefore their flags and constitution were also different since time immemorial. Therefore, the organisation stated that no force on earth can stop the Nagas to safeguard its “heart and soul of Naga” and that Naga nation did not need certification of “nationalism from a foreign people”. The organisation also expressed astonishment on the allegations against the Naga nation by R.N. Ravi, which it claimed has continuously hurt the sentiment of the

Naga people with his (Ravi) wrong statement.

Therefore, LPO demanded that Ravi to apologise for the same before the almighty God and the Naga people. It also apprised the governor and interlocutor to desist from making “false statements on the Naga national movement if he had less knowledge of Naga history rather than speaking his own history”.

LPO further stated that at this juncture, when the whole world was keenly watching India to exhibit her role to end the longest insurgency in the South East Asia by concluding the Indo-Naga political talk with honourable and acceptable solution, it was unfortunate that the government of India has time and again conveyed her insincerity towards the Indo-Naga political issue.

NST staff quarter inaugurated at Panso

DIMAPUR: Advisor of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Evaluation, Economic & Statistics, Nagaland, L. Khumo inaugurated Panso public ground on December 9. According

to DIPR report, advisor also donated an ambulance towards PHC Panso which was handed over through Pathso Area GBs Union.

Divisional manager NST, Tuensang, Andrew P Tikh-

ir also inaugurated NST staff quarter-cum-booking counter at Panso. Advisor was accompanied by SP Noklak, EAC Panso, BDO Panso, MO Noklak, officials and party workers.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.

(2 Timothy 4:7)

Mrs. Z. Tosheli Chishi

W/o. Late Captain Zuvishe Chishi (Lokobomi) (First Women Secretary, SBAK)

The family members of Late Mrs. Z. Tosheli Chishi would like to express our deepest appreciation for everyone’s sympathy as we mourned her loss.

The shared memories from all of you at the visitation and funeral, along with assistance of all kind and charitable donations and words of condolence meant a great deal to us all, we are truly grateful.

We convey our special acknowledgement to:1. East Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church, Purana Bazar, Dimapur 2. Women Secretary & Women Department SBAK Aizuto 3. Women Secretary & Women Department SBAK Nito Mount 4. STH Aizuto & SBAK Urban Church, Dimapur 5. CBC Aizuto Women Society 6. Seanglo SHG, Naharbari, Dimapur 14-05-1943 – 04-12-2020 7. NSWON Sumi Region 8. Lokobomi Tughalomi Union, Lokobomi Union - Dimapur/Kohima/Akuluto 9. Lokobomi Village Baptist Church 10. Rev. Vitoshe Aye, Pastor, CBC Aizuto & All SBAK Staff 11. Shri. Rothihu Tetseo, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Dimapur 12. Shri. Ikato Chishi Swu, General Secretary, CNC (Council of Nagalim Churches) 13. All Nagaland Electricity Field Workers Association (ANEFWA) Your contribution made our loss more bearable. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude and it is our earnest prayer that our good Lord would bless you all abundantly.

DP-5470

Loving Children, Grandchildren, In-laws & Relatives

Born : May 15, 1964 Died : December 12, 2016

Dear Dad, There’s not even a single day that we don’t miss you.

We were looking forward to spend more time with you together as a family but God had other plans we love you and we miss you.

DP-5473

From Wife, Children & Family Members

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

“The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away: blessed be the name of the Lord”.

Job 1:21 Late Zholi-e Natso 1933 – 6th Dec ‘2020

We, the family members of Late Zholi-e Natso, extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone who stood by us physically, spiritually, financially and materially at the demise of our Beloved Mother on 6th Dec ’20.

Though we are unable to thank you all personally, it is our humble prayer that our Almighty God showers His blessings to you all abundantly.

DP-5500

Loving Children, In-laws, Grand Children& Great Grand Children.

K-2021

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

(Born: 10-02-1992, Died: 08-12-2020) With profound grief, we, the family of Lt. E. Renbemo Murry would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to all who stood by us and shared our grief, sorrow and supported us physically, emotionally, financially, materially and spiritually at the sad demise of our son on 08-12-2020.

Special thanks to;1. SP, Addl. SP, All ranks and files of DEF Wokha 2. Shri. R.N. Lotha, PRO to Dy. CM, Govt. of Nagaland 3. Shri. Joseph Patton 4. Shri. Albert Patton, BDO Wokha 5. Yikhum Baptist Church Leaders 6. Ranger Team Yikhum 7. Yikhum Village DEF Wokha Group 8. Wokha Town Yikhum friends & well wishers It is with deep regret that we are unable to mention all names individually, however it is our prayer that the Almighty Lord bless each and everyone individually.

Loving wife, family and relatives WC-284

DP-5493

K Y M C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q . : Ha ve p u b l i c b e e n s e n s i t i s e d t ow a rd s combating dengue outbreak?

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

A B C

Clock tower inaugurated in Wokha MALT endorses DAYO on foothill road DIMAPUR: Mangkolemba Ao Lanur Telongjem (MALT) has endorsed Dimapur Ao Youth Organization (DAYO) appeal for completion of foothill road and also in pointing out the priority for those districts living under the foothill of Nagaland.

In a statement, MALT president, I.Tia Jamir stated that it appreciated the government for introducing 14 National Highway projects but felt that the grievances and the need for those citizens who were

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A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

26% 74% 0%

Next poll

Q: Is COVID-19 vaccine

b e c o m i n g m o re o f commercial than medical interest?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

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State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

living within the “mirror of Nagaland” should be also taken into account.

“Yes, we don’t deny the due share in bringing a close proximity for the capital town. However, we feel that, will it not be wise to consider the other districts as our own”, MALT stated.

According to MALT, other foothill tribe of Nagaland with its demarcated district comes under Nagaland state too, “if not alien when excluded, from within”.

It therefore stated that prejudice in sharing the development works will lead to a “bi- polar communal tension”. Stating that it have a feeling of oneness and brotherhood and that was always ready to share the common platform in both story and context as Nagas, MALT urged the state government to look into the most important road connectivity for people living in Mon, Tuensang, Longleng, Mokokchung, Zunheboto and Wokha districts.

Dy. chief minister, Y. Patton, minister Jacob Zhimomi and others at the inauguraton programme. (DIPR)

construct the clock tower for the love of his community. He said Lothas were fortunate to have a senior benevolent leader, who was second in command to lead the State. He also appealed to the other three legislators from the district to come forward and extend cooperation with the dy. chief minister for the betterment of the Lotha community in particular and for the Nagas in general.

Jacob also reminded the public on the advancement of modern information technology (IT), stating that without knowing the disadvantages of modern technology today’s youngsters has plunged into the use of mobile phone technology

which has many negative impact in the society.

While speaking on the water supply in Wokha town which he inaugurated last year at Vankhosung main reservoir, Jacob assured that the department will try its best to give at least basic requirement of water supply from the said reservoir before next monsoon.

He also said department could not augment adequate water storage due to some technical problem but will be rectified soon.

Jacob also stressed on the importance of free will donation from the public for the successful implementation of any Government projects.

Mhondamo Lotha on

behalf of Lotha Hoho in particular and public in general thanked Y. Patton for constructing the Clock Tower from his own initiative. He also appealed the minister to strengthen and renovate the Wokha town water supply from Engorotchu main reservoir from Vankhosung, since the water supply was not being satisfactorily delivered for adequate public service.

Benediction prayer for the inauguration of the clock tower was said by Executive Secretary, LBCA, Rev. L. Tsanso in the programme chaired by Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, Orenthung Lotha. The construction of Residents filling the potholes at Sesame Road, Tsumang Colony, Wokha Town clock tower was supervised initiated by ex-chairman Wokha District Chamber of Commerce, Renponthung Ezung on December 11. (Thunglamo Odyuo)

by Phyobemo Tungoe.

ATMA functionaries trained on ‘organic farming techniques’

Sensitization programme on substance abuse

Pangnyu calls for awareness on COVID prevention

WEATHER FORECAST December 12

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sun

27 14

Aizawl

Hazy sunshine

24 10

Guwahati Hazy sun

26 15

Hazy sun

25 9

Itanagar Mostly sunny and nice

24 13

Shillong

Hazy sun

19 8

Kohima

Plenty of sunshine

21 9

Imphal

Dimapur Hazy sun Mkg

Mostly sunny and beautiful

25 13 22 10

Tuensang Mostly sunny and cooler

17 7

Mostly sunny

21 12

Zunheboto Mostly sunny

20 8

Wokha

DIMAPUR: Minister of Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) Jacob Zhimomi on Friday inaugurated the Clock Tower in Wokha in the presence of deputy chief minister and minister incharge of Home and Road & Bridges, Y. Patton.

According to DIPR report, Jacob addressing the public expressed his happiness to be a part of epoch making landmark structure inauguration in Wokha district.

The Clock Tower which is 57th tall was constructed

by Y. Patton under LADF programme 2019-2020.

He thanked Y. Patton for generously contributing from his own resources to

Director SAMETI , Dr. Watimongla Jamir and others at the training programme.

DIMAPUR: A two-day online training program on “Organic Farming Techniques and Organic Certification” for Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) functionaries organized by State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI) was conducted from December 10 to 11.

A press release by director SAMETI & principal IETC, Dr. Watimongla Jamir stated that the training was aimed to provide

technical knowledge to the extension functionaries about techniques involved in organic farming and different forms of organic certification.

The resource persons for the training program were, Agriculture Inspector, Bio- Control Laboratory, Medziphema, Dr. Moasunep and deputy project director, SAMETI, Medziphema, Vikaho Chophi.

Topics on introduction to organic farming and step by step conversion to organic farming

techniques; organic crop management techniques; pest and disease management in organic agriculture and organic food & certification were covered during the training.

Naga Organic App was also highlighted to the participants so as to enable the functionaries to help uplift and promote the agro based farmers.

Altogether, 21 ATMA functionaries’ from all the districts of the state attended the online training programme.

MCK hosts career guidance seminar

DIMAPUR: Access to Rights and Knowledge (ARK) Foundation with the support from the department of Social welfare and in partnership with Lightway Society and Kripa Foundation conducted a sensitisation programme on substance use prevention, management and comorbidities with drug users at the Immanuel Church, Pfutsero on December 7.

A press release by ARK Foundation president, Ketho Angami stated that, project director of Lightway Society, acknowledged the importance of holding such programme to disseminate information that concerns the health of those using drugs.

Ketho as the resource person touched upon various health concerns pertaining to the lives of a drug user with the objective to keep them away from premature deaths and infectious diseases. He also highlighted various subjects including the importance of OST and its benefits, drug use in relation to HIV, TB and viral hepatitis, and the prevention, management and treatment of all these diseases. He informed that all these services were government initiated programmes and can be availed free of cost.

Altogether, 24 participants including the resource person attended the programme.

DIMAPUR: Minister of Health and Family Welfare, S. Pangnyu Phom has appealed to the frontline workers and members of District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) Longleng to continue create awareness about methods to contain the spread of the coronavirus infection.

According to DIPR report, the minister, who chaired the meeting of DPDB Longleng on December 10, congratulated and appreciated the efforts of the frontline works, district administration, police & security force, government officials, PBCA, NGOs and civil societies of the district for working relentlessly to control and contain the spread of COVID-19 under the dynamic leadership of the deputy commissioner.

Longleng, M. Shayung Phom.

Pangnyu also called upon the officers and members to come forward and share any problems and grievances with the elected members directly for the development of Longleng.

On behalf of the DPDB, the DC, M. Shayung Phom apprised the minister for construction of quarter for ADC Hq, modification of DPDB hall, GA guest house and posting of DEO (Education), JE (CAWD), DFO (Fishery), UDO (Urban)

Pangnyu Phom addressing the DPDB meeting in Longleng. (DIPR)

and EE Power for smooth functioning of developmental works in the district.

The newly elected president of the Phom People’s Council (PPC), Shame Angh also exhorted the members.

The proposal for construction of water reservoir tank submitted by the OC Fire & Emergency Service, Longleng was discussed and approved for allotment.

In this regard, the board entrusted DC & PPC for allotment of suitable site for construction of water reservoir tank.

However, it was decided that the concern department shall execute the work.

Tuensang DPDB

takes up COVID -19 awareness activities Meanwhile, members of DPDB Tuensang highlighted the activities on COVID-19 activities taken up by the district at the DPDB meeting held on December 11.

T h e m e e t i n g wa s chaired by deputy commissioner Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant.

The meeting started with the review of the last meeting minutes and its updates. The members discussed on proposal for construction of toilet at Kiusam, EAC office and agreed to forward for approval by the government.

The proposal for the registration of societies namely Eastern Nagaland

Agri allied Farmers Association HQ Tuensang and Welfare Society for Disabilities (WSD) Tuensang was discussed and decided to forward to respective department for verification before further necessary procedures.

The proposal for installation of 500 KV transformer at EAC Chari was also discussed and decided to send to concern department for verification before sending to government for approval.

The proposal for financial assistance for painting of badminton stadium was also discussed and decided to go HoDs donation drive for the same. The PWD R&B presented the departmental activities to the house.

The seminar in progress on December 11.

DIMAPUR: Modern College Kohima (MCK) guidance and counseling cell hosted seminar on career guidance on December 11.

The panel of speakers for the seminar were, managing director, MCK, Pelee Hekha; principal of the college, Dr. Vitsou Yano and assistant professor department of Science, Kikatemba Ozukum.

The seminar was moderated by assistant professor department of English, Kaikho Ezhüni.

In a press statement, MCK principal Dr. Vitsou stated that Hekha briefed the students on the National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) and gave a presentation on the NEET toppers of the North-Eastern states, where Nagaland K Y M C

was also included in the list.

He challenged the students to work harder and to focus on achieving at the national level and not just the state level.

Kikatemba sensitized the students on the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and also briefed the students on the new pattern of JEE which will be implemented from 2021.

Dr. Vitsou spoke on the importance of decision making, using talent to determines one’s goal, grabbing the opportunity ahead of oneself, opting different courses as per interests or one’s own talent. Vote of thanks was delivered by assistant professor department of English, Aben Longkumer. The new team of ENPUD office bearers lad by its president Shahoto Yimchunger Altogether 60 students, along with the visited the DUDA guest house at Sovima, near Tetso College inspected the ongoing teachers attended the seminar. construction work.

K Y M C

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northeast

Doctors in NE join IMA’s nation wide strike Doctors in Arunachal observe token strike

I tanagar / Shillong/ Aizawl/ Guwahati Dec 11 (PTI): Doctors in Arunachal Pradesh on Friday sported black badges and observed a token strike in support of IMA against the notification by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) to allow post-graduate Ayurveda students to study and practice allopathic surgical procedures.

They, however, attended their usual duties and OPD and other medical services functioned normally, president of Arunachal Pradesh unit of Indian Medical Association (IMA-AP) Lobsang Tsetim said.

The IMA-AP did not go for the bandh call but wore black badges in solidarity with the central IMA. The decision was taken as Arunachal Pradesh has a limited number of doctors and a total bandh call could affect the healthcare delivery system, he said.

Opposing the government notification, the Arunachal Pradesh unit of IMA said that the mixing of streams of medicines in surgery is not only hazardous to the health of the general people but may also be fatal.

Tsetim said modern medicines and Ayurveda are totally different subjects.

The mixing of both will be

Members of Junior doctors’ Association in Guwahati stage a protest in solidarity with Indian Medical Association’s strike against ‘Mixopathy’ (PTI) detrimental to the health sector, he said and wondered who will be held responsible if a surgery by an Ayurveda graduate goes wrong.

The association, howver, has no issue with the practicing of medicine

by Ayurveda students, he said.

The IMA-Arunachal Pradesh unit has also requested the state government to oppose and not implement the CCIM notification in the state and will seek its withdrawal.

The demands of the IMA include withdrawal of the four committees of the NITI Aayog, mixing of all systems of medicines and the National Education Policy, which proposes to phase out all institutions

offering single streams and protested by wearing black that all universities and col- badges while attending to leges must aim to become patients.

The IMA has given a multidisciplinary by 2040. call for withdrawal of nonessential and non-COVID services between 6 am and 6 pm on Friday to protest Many doctors in Me- against the notification. ghalaya on Friday sported The notification by the black badges in support of Central Council of Indian the protest call of the IMA Medicine (CCIM) to allow against the Centre’s move legal practice of surgeries allowing post-graduate prac- by Ayurveda practitioners titioners of Ayurveda to be and the formation of four trained in performing surgi- committees by NITI Aayog cal procedures. for integration of all systems The Indian Medical of medicine will only lead Association (IMA), which to “mixopathy”, the IMA had given the nation-wide has said. call has demanded withIMA Mizoram chapter drawal of the notification.

IMA Meghalaya chap- opposes CCIM notification The Mizoram chapter ter secretary Dr Bhaskar Borgohain said doctors here of the Indian Medical As-

Doctors in Meghalaya were black ribbons

sociation (IMA) and the Indian Dental Association (IDA) on Friday strongly opposed the Centre’s move allowing post-graduate practitioners of Ayurveda to be trained in performing surgical procedures.

Though the Mizoram chapter of the IMA did not join the strike called by the IMA, it voiced its opposition to the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) notification and raised the slogan “no to mixopathy or crosspathy in healthcare”.

Leaders of Mizoram chapter of the IMA and IDA opposed ‘mixophathy’ in healthcare and said that it is not possible to easily diagnose ailments and suggest a treatment as the types of diseases are numerous.

“This decision is detrimental to public health. We are not against Ayurveda but the crossover with allopathy,” the leaders of IMA Mizoram chalpter told a press conference here.

Guwahati doctors oppose‘mixopathy’

Indian Medical Association (IMA) members and doctors staged a protest against the Centre’s law enabling Ayurvedic doctors to practice modern medicine and surgical procedures in Guwahati.

“They are mixing the modern medical system with the traditional one.

It takes eight to 10 years

Mnp CM urges govt teachers to be committed M’laya Speaker meets gov Correspondent IMPHAL, Dec 11: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh on Friday called upon teachers of government schools to be dedicated to their duty, in a speech after the inauguration of a school building constructed under the School Fagathansi Mission (Let’s developed school mission) in Imphal.

The chief minister who inaugurated the new building at Tamphasana Girls Higher Secondary School in Imphal also graced the 48th Annual Prize Distribution of HSLC Examination 2020 conducted by the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur and Incentives Award Ceremony 2020 of department of education (s), Manipur.

In his address during the function, Singh said that keeping in view the importance of dedication from teachers in the educational development of students, the government would also take up measures to award dutiful teachers as an en-

couragement to bring out more bright students.

He stated that students coming from poor families had been facing problems studying at private schools due to their high fee structures and affected he economy of their families as their earnings had been expended to payment of high amounts of fees. As such, development of infrastructures of government schools is very important to increase enrolment of students, which in turn would ease some of the financial burdens faced by poor families, he added.

Singh expressed happiness with the increase in numbers of position holders from government schools and also in the percentage of enrolment of students after the launch of the mission.

The chief minister appealed to the students to be sincere and hard working in their studies, asserting that they are the future pillars of the state and not to waste their precious time on any unnecessary matters.

He also assured that the

government would put every effort for the development of schools and students.

State works minister Th Biswajit Singh who also spoke on the occasion said that development of a region depends on its human resources and it was only through education that human resources could be developed.

Highlighting the need of studying history among the students, he stated that it would make them understand and maintain the ageold relation that had existed between different ethnic groups of the state.

Education minister Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh in his address appreciated the initiatives taken up by the chief minister to bring growth in the education sector through the School Fagathansi Mission.

The mission had played a major role in infrastructure development and increase in enrolment percentage in government schools which were earlier left in pathetic condition, he added.

Correspondent

Shillong, Dec 11: Meghalaya Assembly Speaker Metbah Lyngdoh on Friday met with Governor Satya Pal Malik to discuss the amendment to Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA).

Talking to reporters after the meeting, he informed that he received a positive response from the governor on the amendment bill but added that Malik requested for time to go through the act.

“Keeping in mind the amendment (to MRSSA) is useful and at the same time required for a state like us,

to ensure that people of the state are taken care of, and he has requested me that he will need little more time,” Lyngdoh said.

In response to Opposition Congress’ demand for recalling the amendment and implementing the principal act, he said that the amended bill was passed unanimously by members of house.

“I don’t know what the opposition is talking about, the bill that has been passed and we have to see it is assented by the governor.

Everybody should work together for the people of the state,” the speaker underscored.

Mizoram reports 14 new COVID cases Aizawl, Dec 11 (PTI) : Mizoram’s COVID-19 tally rose to 4,008 as 14 more people including three BSF jawans tested positive for the infection, a health department official said on Friday.

The COVID-19 death toll climbed to seven as one more person succumbed to the infection, he said.

An 83-year-old man suffering from diabetes died at Zoram Medical College (ZMC) here on Friday, the official said.

Meghalaya Governor Mob torches govt offices in remote reviews Central schemes Arunachal village over poll-related issues

Correspondent

Shillong, Dec 11: Meghalaya Governor Satya Pal Malik on Friday had a review of centrally sponsored schemes and especially Prime Minister’s schemes in the Raj Bhavan here with top government officials from East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills districts. The review meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police along with district officials of the three districts dealing with the programmes .

During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioners made a comprehensive presentation on the performance of important schemes like MGNREGA , Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, PM Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Matru Vandana Yojana, SSA, NHM, PM Ujjwala Yojana, PMGSY and other schemes .

The Deputy Commissioners highlighted problems and constraints faced by the districts and also highlighted the significant achievements in their respective districts.

The later part of the K Y M C

Satya Pal Malik

meeting focused on law and order issues in which the Superintendents of Police made presentations on issues of security, law and order, issues of human trafficking, drug abuse and smuggling and steps taken by the State Police to counter the challenges.

At the meeting, Governor Malik expressed his satisfaction on the performance of the schemes and assured that some issues like that of poor bank coverage and mobile connectivity would be addressed by talking to high officials concerned at his level too.

Malik said maternal health and child schemes are very close to his heart and appealed to the district officials to specially focus on them.

ITANAGAR, DEC 11 (PTI): A mob led by members of a students’ body on Friday set ablaze several government offices and ransacked a police station in a remote village of Arunachal Pradesh to protest against filing of nomination papers by former Assam Rifles personnel living there for decades in panchayat election, an official said.

The incident took place at Vijaynagar in Changlang district where ex-employees of the paramilitary force were living since early 1960s.

They originally hailed from outside the state but form the majority of the local population now, official sources said.

Around 400 people led by the Yobin Students Union set fire to the offices of the Extra Assistant Commissioner, Special Branch of the state police and the post office besides ransacking the local police station, the official said.

The civil helipad was also partially damaged by the mob, Public Relations Officer of the police Rohit

Rajbir Singh said. However, there was no report of casualties.

“They came from nearby Gandhigram area.

Armed with daos (a sharp weapon), sticks, bows and arrows, they set on fire the public properties demanding immediate fulfilment of their demands,” Singh said. The demands of the protestors include cancellation of the right of former Assam Rifles personnel living in the area to take part in panchayat elections and their immediate deportation.

“The situation is tense but under control. Around 30 police personnel led by Changlang Superintendent of Police Mihin Gambo are presently camping in the area, while additional forces are being dispatched for maintenance of law and order,” Singh said.

Tirap, Changlang and Longding region DIG Kime Kaming air dashed to Vijaynagar, while a police team led by IGP (Law & Order) Chukhu Apa along with Special Branch SP John Pada is on the way to the area, Singh

said. “These senior officers will camp in Vijaynagar for the next few days,” he said.

Vijaynagar, which is yet to be connected by roads from other areas, is the remotest circle of Changlang district surrounded on three sides by Myanmar.

The circle consists of 16 villages having a population of over 4,000 people, official sources said.

While 55 per cent of the population belong to retired Assam Rifle personnel, the remaining 45 per cent comprises people of the Lisu, also known as Yobin, tribe.

The settlement of the Assam Rifle personnel began from 1961, they said.

Several students’ bodies of Arunachal Pradesh opposed the participation of the former Assam Rifles personnel in the December 22 panchayat polls, which prompted the State Election Commission to defer the poll in Vijaynagar, with apprehension of breakdown of law and order in the area.

to become a surgeon but the Centre is allowing Ayurvedic practitioners to perform it with only three years of training.

It is a sort of experiment on people,” said Satyajeet Bora, IMA Assam State Chief.

He added, “The Government of India has to withdraw the notification.

We are protesting against mixopathy.”

IMA has called for a nationwide no-demonstration strike on Friday. The medical body is demanding the withdrawal of the notification allowing Ayurveda postgraduates to perform modern medicine surgery.

The nationwide doctors’ strike will disrupt medical services across the country amid the COVID19 pandemic. The medical services in Assam will also be interrupted except for emergency services and COVID care services.

Speaking to ANI, Dr Rajan Sharma, national president, IMA, said allowing Ayurveda postgraduates to perform surgery is a ‘blatant attempt’ to ‘corrupt’ the healthcare system of the country.

“It takes years and years to become a doctor and with ‘mixopaths’ what are we heading for?

It’s a failure when nations compromise on health,” said Dr Sharma.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

Mnp health dept cautions against COVID second wave

Correspondent

IMPHAL, Dec 11: Manipur health department on Friday cautioned against second coronavirus wave with the onset of winter season. The officials of the department also credited the declining trend of COVID19 positive caseload in the state to people’s positive response to government calls for following appropriate behaviour to avoid contracting the deadly virus.

Addressing the weekly media briefing on the COVID-19 status update, state health director Dr K Rajo Singh cautioned people of exposure to the deadly contagious virus.

“The virus is getting stronger with the onset of winter. We still need to take care of ourselves. We need to wear masks while going out of the home and maintaining social distancing,” he said.

Observing a decline in the positive cases in the last few weeks, the director claimed getting the fruit of government efforts to contain the spread of the contagious virus in the state.

Now, people have started obeying the COVID-19 appropriate behaviours laid down by the government from time to time after the state government constituted committees to create awareness on COVID-19 to the masses, he said.

People were seen re-

sponding to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to avoid contracting with the virus. The credit of this should be given to the government’s efforts in fighting the pandemic, he said.

Analysis of the daily COVID-19 update report of the state health department showed slight decline in the daily caseload with records of below 200-mark in the last around two weeks.

In view of the rapid surge in infection and fatality cases in the state, Manipur government had constituted task forces and committees at various levels to aware the people on the appropriate behaviours to be followed to avoid contracting the virus.

The director further informed that the state health department has initiated steps to launch COVID-19 vaccination programme in the state from January 2021 following an instruction from the Union ministry of health and family welfare.

The director said that the Centre was hoping for the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine in the country by January next year.

“As per instruction of the Union ministry we have prepared a list of healthcare workers and healthcare service providers who will be given priority during the first phase of the vaccination programme,” he said.

Ruling NPP hits back at Meghalaya’s Leader of Opposition Correspondent Shillong, Dec 11: The ruling National People’s Party (NPP) has hit back at Leader of Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma for criticising the government on the issue of Inner Line Permit (ILP), saying the party was working up to the expectations of the people of the state.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, Anthony Nongbri, Shillong city president of the NPP, said that despite repeated clarifications, the leader of opposition was seemingly “unable to digest” the fact that the current government was “exceeding people’s expectations” and is committed to work tirelessly for the well-being of the State.

“Why else will a party leader continue to invest his precious time in blame game and petty politics

when he can use this time to serve the people of his constituency, for that matter constructively critique the government? Moreover, why is it that these confusions dwell only within Dr. Sangma’s head time and again? Seems like a case of an idle mind being a devil’s workshop,” Nongbri alleged. Reacting to the demand of the opposition to recall the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (Amendment), Bill 2020, the NPP said that the revised MRSSA will put a check on the influx of illegal migrants in the State and will ensure that there is adequate protection of the indigenous communities in Meghalaya.

“The MRSSA in its current form is more robust and substantial unlike during the Congress regime where it was toothless and vague. The MRSSA passed

by Dr. Mukul’s government

was just an instrument to play with people’s emotions to earn petty vote banks,” the Shillong city president of the NPP maintained.

The NPP said that the then Dr. Sangma’s own government has voiced out his “ignorant and careless attitude” towards the lLP issue through the high-level committee of 2012, even as it pointed out that the current dispensation had constituted a High Level Committee on the matter in 2012.

“The committee collectively recommended ILP. The Congress outrightly rejected the recommendations and did nothing.

Bindo Lanong, the then Deputy Chief Minister criticised the government over its inaction as well and stated that the constitution of the committee was a waste, since Congress had refused to take action over it,” Nongbri said.

M’laya CM 18 new cases take Arunachal’s tests COVID-19 COVID-19 tally to 16,479 Dec 11 various hospitals on Thurspositive, one dies Itanagar, (PTI): At least 18 more day, taking the total number

SHILLONG, DEC 11: Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma announced on Friday that he had tested positive for Covid-19 and was under home isolation with mild symptoms.

“I have tested positive for #Covid_19. I am under home isolation and experiencing mild symptoms,” Sangma tweeted. “I request all those who came in contact with me in the past 5 days to kindly keep a watch on their health and if necessary get tested. Stay safe,” he requested in his micro-blogging site.

The chief minister had met Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday at Raj Bhawan here. He had also held meetings with his cabinet ministers besides government officials and other individuals.

Sangma had tested positive for COVID-19 through TrueNat, Health minister, Alexander Laloo Hek said. Sangma is the seventh legislator from Meghalaya to have tested positive for COVID so far.

people, including four Army personnel, tested positive for COVID-19 in Arunachal Pradesh, pushing the tally in the state to 16,479, a health department official said on Friday. Of the new cases, five each were reported from East Siang, Tawang and West Kameng districts, while one each from Tirap, Namsai and the Capital Complex region, State Surveillance Officer (SSO) Dr Lobsang Jampa said.

Three infections were detected through TrueNat tests and the remaining 15 via rapid antigen tests, he said. Barring six, all the new patients are asymptomatic, Jampa said. Forty-two people were discharged from

of recoveries in the state to 15,739, the official said.

The recovery rate among coronavirus patients in the state currently stands at 95.50 per cent. Arunachal Pradesh now has 685 active coronavirus cases, while 55 people have succumbed to the infection so far, the SSO said. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.50 per cent, while the fatality ratio is at 0.33 per cent, Jampa said. The Capital Complex region, comprising Itanagar, Naharlagun, Nirjuli and Banderdewa areas, has the highest number of active cases at 524, followed

by West Kameng at 38, Changlang at 29 and East Siang at 19.

Dear Daisybo, Wishing you a day filled with happiness and a year filled with joy.

Happy birthday my dear Princess. We are so grateful you came into the world because you make my world better every day. May God bless you long life.

From Nisu and Aza Ili K Y M C

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national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

Nadda convoy attack: WB top officers summoned Farmers’ group blames Centre New Delhi/Kolkata, Dec 11 (PTI): The Union Home Ministry has summoned West Bengal’s chief secretary and police chief on December 14 for an explanation on the law and order situation in the state, a move that follows Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar’s report on the attack on BJP president J P Nadda’s convoy, officials said on Friday.

Dhankhar, who alleged at a press conference in Kolkata that violators of law in Bengal have the protection of police and administration and any resistance by the opposition is quelled, was asked to submit a report after Nadda’s convoy was attacked with stones and bricks in Kolkata’s Diamond Harbour on Thursday.

West Bengal’s two top officials, Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay and Director General of Police Virendra, are expected to be asked to explain the law and order situation in the state as well as steps taken to prevent political violence and other crimes, officials said.

The Home Ministry is yet to receive a report from the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government on the “serious security lapses” during Na-

Nadda’s convoy was pelted with stones on Thursday morning by alleged TMC workers at Sirakol in Diamond Harbour area of South 24 Parganas district, where he had gone to address a rally. Several BJP leaders including its Bengal minder Kailash Vijayvargiya suffered injuries, sources in the saffron party claimed.

Two suo moto cases were subsequently lodged against unknown people for carrying out the attack.

BJP workers block a road during a protest against the attack on JP Nadda’s convoy. (PTI) dda’s visit to the state, they said. The governor’s report following the violence in Diamond Harbour, the Lok Sabha constituency of Banerjee’s nephew Abhishek, gives a detailed analysis of the law and order situation in West Bengal and the state government’s response to political violence and other crimes, the officials said.

In Kolkata, the governor slammed the state government over the deteriorating law and order situation and said the chief minister must desist from repeated remarks calling the BJP a party of outsiders. Such statements, he said, would weaken the

national fabric.

Seven held for attack on Nadda’s convoy

Seven persons were arrested in West Bengal on Friday for their alleged involvement in the attack on BJP national president JP Nadda’s convoy a day ago, a senior police officer said.

Four persons were arrested from Falta, and three from Usthi police station area, both in South 24 Parganas district, he told PTI. All seven of them were booked under various sections of the IPC for rioting, obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions and other offences.

Mamata govt decides not to send CS, DGP to Delhi

A defiant West Bengal government on Friday decided not to send the state’s chief secretary and police chief to New Delhi in compliance with Union Home Ministry’s summons in the wake of a mob attack on BJP chief J P Nadda’s convoy.

Chief Secretary Alapan Bandopadhyay wrote to Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, saying he has been directed to request to “dispense with the presence of the state officials” in the meeting convened on December 14. The MHA had on Friday summoned Bandopadhyay and DGP Virendra asking them to present themselves on De-

cember 14 for an explanation on the law and order situation in the state, following Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar’s report on the attack on Nadda’s convoy by alleged supporters of the ruling TMC. “Kindly refer to the letter whereby the Chief Secretary and the Director-General of Police, Government of West Bengal have been requested to attend a meeting on December 14, 2020, at 12.15 PM in your chamber to discuss the law and order situation in the State of West Bengal including the incidents regarding certain Z-category protectees,” Bandopadhyay wrote in his letter. Listing out various steps taken by the West Bengal government to ensure the protection of Nadda’s convoy, Bandopadhyay said the state is addressing the issue with utmost seriousness.

“While further reports are being obtained and compiled, in the circumstances, I am directed to request you to kindly dispense with the presence of the State officials in the meeting, considering that the State Government is already addressing this issue with utmost seriousness,” he said in the two-page letter.

for interrupting talks process

NEW DELHI, DEC 11 (AGENCIES): The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), one of the organisations spearheading the movement against the farm laws, has blamed the Centre for interrupting the ongoing discussions between the two sides, reports Times of India.

The organisation has sought an explanation from agricultural minister Narendra Singh Tomar on “why home minister Amit Shah interrupted the discussion process”.

“The minister of agriculture has to explain why home minister Amit Shah interrupted the discussion process, should take onus for the stalemate,” AIKS said in a written statement issued by its president Ashok Dhawale and general secretary Hannan Mollah, on Thursday.

Rebuffing Tomar’s allegations that the farmer organisations “were wrong” in intensifying their struggle while discussions were going on, the AIKS mounted a counter charge to the government by saying, “the agriculture minister should explain why home minister Amit Shah interrupted

Farmers raise slogans in Amritsar, (PTI) the discussion process and brought up the same proposals about amendments in the law that had already been categorically rejected by the Kisan delegation on December 5. “ “Tomar should take the onus of the disruption of the discussion process,” said Kisan Sabha in its statement.

AIKS accused Amit Shah and Niti Ayog CEO Amitabh Kant of “acting on behest of corporate giants… to scuttle the repeal of the three farm Acts and the Electricity Bill,” according to their statement.

The AIKS statement followed the announcement from the Joint Platform

of Central Trade Unions (JPCTU) on Thursday that reiterated their “rock-like solidarity with the farmers’ united struggle.”

The JPCTUs in their statement said that all the farmers organisations are “closely following the machinations of the Centre, such as planting alleged NIA reports of instigation by SJF from Canada, alleged letter bearing lakhs of signatures of the Haryana Farmers backing the agri-laws, offer to amend laws and many other such deceitful diversionary tactics” which they claim have failed to make any headway against the demand to repeal the farm laws.

Bus strike: Transport services hit across Cong lost political focus after K’taka govt will promulgate antiKarnataka as employees go on strike my elevation as prez: Pranab cow slaughter ordinance: CM

KSRTC workers shout slogans during a protest against the state government, in Chikmagalur, Friday. (PTI) BENGALURU, DEC 11 (AGENCIES): A day after taking out protest rallies, employees of transport corporations in Karnataka on Friday went on a strike pressing for their demands, reports Times Now Digital.

The strike has disrupted Bangalore Metropolitan Transpor t Cor poration (BMTC) services in Bengaluru and Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) services in rest of Karnataka.

Various videos up-

loaded by users on Twitter showed that commuters were left stranded due to the BMTC and KSRTC bus strike today.

The transport workers have been seeking government employee status. They want the same privileges or incentives as provided to the government employees and also a compensation of Rs 30 lakh to the kin of transport workers, who lost their lives during COVID-19 duty.

More than 1.2 lakh

workers are employed with four road transport corporations run by the state: KSRTC, BMTC, North Eastern Karnataka Road Transpor t Cor poration (NEKRTC) and Nor th Western Karnataka Road Transpor t Cor poration (NWKRTC).

Services were affected as the majority of transport employees did not report for the duty this morning.

New Delhi, Dec 11 (PTI): The Congress had lost political focus after his elevation as the President and some party members believed that had he become the prime minister in 2004, the 2014 Lok Sabha poll debacle could have been averted, Pranab Mukherjee wrote in his memoir.

Mukherjee completed the book “The Presidential Years” before his death. It will be published by Rupa in January.

The former president died on August 31 at the age of 84, following COVID-19 complications. His observations come at a time of intense internal turmoil in the Congress. The publishers issued a statement announcing the book.

“Some members of the Congress have theorized that, had I become the PM in 2004, the party might have averted the 2014 Lok Sabha drubbing. Though I don’t subscribe to this view, I do believe that the party’s leadership lost political fo-

cus after my elevation as president. While Sonia Gandhi was unable to handle the affairs of the party, Dr (Manmohan) Singh’s prolonged absence from the House put an end to any personal contact with other MPs,” Mukherjee is quoted as saying in his book.

“I believe that the moral authority to govern vests with the PM. The overall state of the nation is reflective of the functioning of the PM and his administration. While Dr Singh was preoccupied with saving the coalition, which took a toll on governance, (Narendra) Modi seemed to have employed a rather autocratic style of governance during his first term, as seen by the bitter relationship among the government, the legislature and the judiciary.

“Only time will tell if there is a better understanding on such matters in the second term of this government,” Mukherjee said in the book, according to the statement by Rupa.

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Bengaluru, Dec 11 (PTI): With the Karnataka legislative council getting adjourned sine die without taking up the contentious anti-cow slaughter bill passed by the Assembly, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday said, the government will promulgate an ordinance to bring it into effect.

The Chief Minister also expressed reservations about the legislative council’s Chairman K Pratapachandra Shetty’s decision to adjourn sine die “abruptly”, and said that the government has decided to convene the house on Tuesday and also petitioned the Governor in this regard.

Shetty had on Wednesday set aside the BJP’s attempt to move a no-confidence motion against him stating that he was taking legal opinion on the matter, and had refused to include it in the agenda citing rules that the subject could be taken up only after 14 days

after submission of notice of no- confidence.

Shetty was elected as the Chairman of the Council during the CongressJD(S) coalition government.

Currently the ruling BJP is the single largest party in the Council with 31 seats, followed by Congress with 29 seats including the chairman.

The JD(S) has 14 seats and there is one independent.

According to sources, the ruling party’s move to convene the Council on Tuesday is aimed at taking forward the no-confidence motion against the chairman, with the help of JD(S).

“We will promulgate an ordinance (on anti-cow slaughter), you know that in the council the Chairman was not cooperating, so we will be promulgating an ordinance,” Yediyurappa told reporters.

The Chief Minister

performed ‘Gau Pooja’ (cow worship) at his official residence Cauvery here on Friday morning in the backdrop of passage of the bill in the assembly.

It is known worldwide that in Hindu dharma cows are revered and in India, which is an agrarian country, and animal husbandry is a source of income for agriculturists, and cattle are used in farming activities, he said.

“As cows are considered an asset in the Indian culture, the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Bill has been passed by the state’s legislative assembly, which further strengthens the existing law,” he added.

The Bill was passed by the assembly on Wednesday, amidst din, with stiff opposition from Congress.

The legislative council was adjourned sine die on Thursday, and the bill is yet to be tabled there for passage.

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THE GAUHATI HIGH COURT

(THE HIGH COURT OF ASSAM : NAGALAND : MIZORAM & ARUNACHAL PRADESH) KOHIMA BENCH

NOTIFICATION

NO.HC(K)15/2015/Estt/99-100/::

Dated Kohima, the 11th December, 2020

DP-5482

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6

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

Health for All: Protect Everyone

Vol. XXxI NO. 10 Dimapur, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

I

Food matters

n the world of food, there’s one thing that’s constant- nothing stays the same. What was chic a few years ago may be a distant memory today. Food trends that started as a ripple across cities and towns with ever increasing demand from a growing urban population. Fast food joints have quickly escalated into a tidal wave that swept across the globe. When it comes to food trends, there’s always something new and outrageous to try. Fast food has been a trend since many decades and today, it is a modern culture with people no longer satisfied with the conventional restaurant food. The young generation are fast food addicts and it is therefore not surprising that many fast food ‘joints’ have sprung up in premier towns like Dimapur and Kohima. In Dimapur, the entire stretch of the Circular road from the Clock Tower junction to Holy Cross School becomes a bee hive of activity in the evening. Scores of food carts have sprung up in the particular area. There are also some food-onwheels that provide detachable dining areas. Even in other parts of Dimapur such as- Duncan area and Notun Bosti junction are witnessing opening up of more food joints including food carts. These are indeed signs that young entrepreneurs are venturing to fast food business. It is also a sign that these young entrepreneurs are determined to do business to succeed without government help. Demand for food exists and today the number of people who want to eat out is also a growing trend. Fast food business is indeed spreading fast and wide because these food items are tasty and suits not only the palate but also the pocket.

The taste may not be natural since most modern food items are laced with artificial colours and flavours.

It would be worth noting that taste and affordability should not be the main criteria but hygiene as well as medium for cooking. There is urgent need for food inspectors to ensure that those selling fast food items strictly adhere to hygiene. There are rules governing those involved with food preparation as well as the items used. Some chemicals used for colouring and flavouring may not be in the best interest of the health of customers. Even the medium for cooking such as oils are also in need of inspection. Studies have linked consumption of trans fats to heart disease, inflammation, higher “bad” LDL cholesterol and lower “good” HDL cholesterol levels. When eating on the go, bear in mind that trans fats may lurk in certain takeout options. restaurants and takeaway chains often fry foods in vegetable oil, which can contain trans fats that soak into the food. On the other hand, many eateries cook under high temperatures during frying. This can cause the trans fat content of the oil to increase slightly. The trans fat content increases each time the same oil is reused for frying. Reusing oil too many times can increase exposure to free radicals, which increases the cholesterol, creates peroxides acid, causes cancer, attacks organ cells and can infect the white blood cells. Reheating or reusing cooking oil can be the reason some are getting more acidity or why their cholesterol levels are rising. Hopefully authorities will step in to ensure that people don’t eat food items that eventually ruin their health.

DailyDevotion Individuality

Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself…” —Matthew 16:24 Individuality is the hard outer layer surrounding the inner spiritual life. Individuality shoves others aside, separating and isolating people. We see it as the primary characteristic of a child, and rightly so.

When we confuse individuality with the spiritual life, we remain isolated. This shell of individuality is God’s created natural covering designed to protect the spiritual life. But our individuality must be yielded to God so that our spiritual life may be brought forth into fellowship with Him. Individuality counterfeits spirituality, just as lust counterfeits love. God designed human nature for Himself, but individuality corrupts that human nature for its own purposes.

The characteristics of individuality are independence and self-will. We hinder our spiritual growth more than any other way by continually asserting our individuality. If you say, “I can’t believe,” it is because your individuality is blocking the way; individuality can never believe. But our spirit cannot help believing. Watch yourself closely when the Spirit of God is at work in you. He pushes you to the limits of your individuality where a choice must be made.

The choice is either to say, “I will not surrender,” or to surrender, breaking the hard shell of individuality, which allows the spiritual life to emerge. The Holy Spirit narrows it down every time to one thing (see Matthew 5:23-24). It is your individuality that refuses to “be reconciled to your brother” (Matthew 5:24). God wants to bring you into union with Himself, but unless you are willing to give up your right to yourself, He cannot. “…let him deny himself…”— deny his independent right to himself. Then the real life-the spiritual life-is allowed the opportunity to grow.

Quotes

Wisdom outweighs any wealth. ~ Sophocles

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

W

12th December is International Universal Health Coverage Day

e know that health is our real wealth. Good health means a good mind which means a healthy society around us. Health care is important for each and every one of us . When it comes to health care for all then we hear about universal health coverage.

It means that all people have access to the health services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship.

It includes the full range of essential health services, from health promotion to prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.

Currently, at least half of the people in the world do not receive the health services they need. About 100 million people are

P

pushed into extreme poverty each year because of out-of-pocket spending on health. This must change.

The situation is more challenging at the time of pandemic like COVID 19.

Nearly one year after the first COVID-19 cases, we must say goodbye to the status quo that got us here, and settle for nothing less than strong health systems that Protect Everyone— now and into the future.

All gover nments promise good health care facilities to its citizens. We know that to make health for all a reality, we need: individuals and communities who have access to high quality health services so that they take care of their own health and the health of their families; skilled health workers provid-

ing quality, people-centred care; and policy-makers committed to investing in universal health coverage. It is important for all governments to have good health policies which shall benefit all citizens and there should not be any deprivation due to shortage of finance.

On 12 December 2012, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed a resolution urging countries to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage (UHC) – the idea that everyone, everywhere should have access to quality, affordable health care - as an essential priority for international development.

On 12 December 2017, the United Nations proclaimed 12 December as International Universal Health

Coverage Day (UHC Day) by resolution 72/138.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in his message said that “in responding to the pandemic, we have seen rapid innovative approaches to health service delivery and models of care, and advances in preparedness.

We must learn from this experience. For Universal Health Coverage Day, let us commit to end this crisis and build a safer and healthier future by investing in health systems that protect us all — now.”

The day aims to raise awareness of the need for strong and resilient health systems and universal health coverage with multi-stakeholder partners.

‘Health for All: Protect Ev-

Not so blessed people

ublic Sector Banks (PSB) have recently introduced door-stepbanking (DSB) for safe and secure services such as pickup and delivery and it has given the old generation a new lease of life in financial transaction as bank now could go at customers’ doorstop for implementing ease of banking reforms. All they need to do is to download / register a Mobile App called DSB from Google Play or App Store. Also a customer can call 18001037188 for the services. Through Web Portal, a customer can also login through a Desktop PC or Laptop Computer too.

Service industries always talk a lot about customers’ service. Even our government offers various schemes to uplift of its people. They offer a plethora of programs and projects but it plunged into darkness before implementation. Common people are not benefitted from plans’ execution. Gandhiji says –“Customer is the most important visitor on our premises. He is not dependent on us. We are dependent on him. He is not an interruption on our work. He is the purpose of it.

He is not an outsider on our business. He is part of it. We are not doing him a favour by serving him. He is doing us a favour by giving us an opportunity to do so”.

But we refuse to face the reality and escape the day to day happening. It was another Sunday afternoon.

After a heavy lunch, we were returning for a leisurely drive at suburb of our city and an unknown call rang from the bluetooth microphone. Call never bothered me anyway, I normally don’t hesitate to response to any call even while on driving; I do with handsfree technology. I thought someone is in need of help. I

must pick up.

Soon I pressed the multifunction button, a soft, calming, shaky voice in slow-paced yet straightforward, which I felt it a bit confused to hear the unclear voice. The old lady is in hospital bed needed some cash withdrawal from bank.

She doesn’t use the facility of ATM or any digital transfer.

Her husband is also over 80s and no one is there for willing to lend a helping hand. The amount she withdrawn on last weekend already spent for admission and other medical treatment.

The next line has further felt me guilty as she was the hapless victims of the banking rules and regulations. Her signature does not tally. The cashier found one letter differed from the original signature and asked to report upstairs for signature up-dating. The entire floor was crowded with pension/salary payment and accepting annual verification for life certificate. There was no lift or escalator. With no little help from anyone she went up first floor to the concerned manager as advised.

The entire lobby was huge. The seething mass of customers made her confused to go ahead. The floor manager was not seen for little help seekers. And she felt really collapsed all of a sudden. Her right leg was broken and now languishing in a Missionary Hospital bed. I was taken aback by how helplessly she raised her genuine concern where financial institutions don’t have an ounce of humanity in customers. Are we in a time of great promise, or great peril?

America provides exemplary help to its senior people. Dr HU Ahmed, the retired principal of Guwahati Medical College, a green card holder had an amazing experience with free cataract

surgery and dropping home by a hospital in Seattle since he is a super senior citizen although his daughters were renowned medical professionals in the US. The directive principles of state policy from our constitution say India is a welfare state. The state plays a key role in the protection and promotion of economic and social well-being of its citizen. But we failed to live up to the occasion. That we observe frequently while rendering customer service to the people.

I came across that couple a year back at my desk. They found an old age home in Nongpoh, Meghalaya, outskirt of Guwahati for a new hope for facing isolated and elderly. I make a point of befriending them for ease of transaction at our branch premise. The couple was devastated by the loss of their family members.

I tried to feel them at ease by enquiring welfare. The lady kept quiet and her husband passed a line “we are not so blessed people in this world”.

We are somehow given shelter by an NGO for old age home.

Administrations don’t give a damn about the welfare of senior citizen.

Mrs Sermon did a genuine attempt to call for a help.

I didn’t spot her husband from the sitting area in the next day morning as the packed space covered with full of people, leaving no room for movement.

He might have lost in the crowd but I alarmed in the help desk for a look out. I rang up in the evening, if her husband had an easy transaction. She thanked the security for her husband allowing an early token that day. When people say “God don’t Bless No Mess”. I think God is always ready to bless them beyond…

Kamal Baruah

High social media usage may up depression risk

Y

oung adults who in- Arkansas in the US. “This new creased their social study sheds light on these quesmedia usage are signifi- tions because high initial social cantly more likely to develop media use led to increased rates depression within six months, of depression. However, initial say researchers. depression did not lead to any Compared to the partici- change in social media use,” pants of the study who used Primack added. social media for less than For the findings, the re120 minutes per day, young search team sampled more adults who used more than 300 than 1,000 US adults between minutes per day are 2.8 times 18 and 30 years of age. They as likely to become depressed measured depression using the within six months. validated nine-item Patient The study, published in Health Questionnaire and the American Journal of Pre- asked the participants about ventive Medicine, shows a link the amount of time they used between social media usage social media on platforms like and depression over time.

Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, “We know from other Instagram and Snapchat. large studies that depression Their analyses controlled and social media usage tend for demographic factors like to go together, but it’s been age, sex, race, education, inhard to figure out which came come and employment, and first,” said study author Brian they included survey weights Primack from the University of so the results would reflect the Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any

eryone’ is the theme for this year. The goal of universal health coverage (UHC) has become more attainable as the world has become richer, leading to greater access to health services and technologies, such as vaccines and antibiotics, and to the most dramatic decline in poverty ever achieved.

There is no doubt that universal health coverage should be based on strong, people-centred primary health care. Countries which have invested more on health have seen progress in their own countries. Countries like India need to invest more on health apart from others. We are already aware that 2020 has been a long moment of reckoning for health systems around the

world. While the harsh lessons of COVID-19 are far from new—and while fears and injustices now making headlines reflect the daily reality of millions before the pandemic—the sheer scale of this crisis has sparked new urgency around health systems and universal health coverage.

This day let us join hands and demand that our leaders focus more on health care. To ensure good physical and mental health and well-being, we must achieve universal health coverage and access to quality health care.

We have to ensure that no one is left behind and we can achieve the goals of sustainability.

Ranjan K Baruah (bkranjan@gmail.com)

Celebrate the Christmas fest with exceeding joy

C

hristmas is a day of celebrating the birthday of Jesus Christ with exceeding joy and hope.

However, the exact day when our Saviour was born is mentioned neither in Holy Bible nor in any other historical books even though He was probably born in winter according to Bible. This is a mystery.

In view of the fact, the festive feeling of Christmas has not been felt on December 25 alone but at the very setting of December, the melodious Christmas songs have been echoing everywhere beside glittering decorations competitively placed in every street and corner of towns, cities and villages which make things so different and beautiful.

On the other side, the dews and snow falling on the beautiful decorations play its part in blessing it. The absence of harsh weather, the tradition of exchanging the best wishes and gifts during Christmas season instils joy, peace, affection and closer ties in all human hearts. Thus, the Christmas season has been a time of filling everybody’s heart with love, peace, joy and generosity.

Why such a season of happiness and good wishes should not be prolonged? Why the celebration of Salvation, the welcoming of Heavenly Kingdom should be limited to a few days program?

The Holy Bible talks about the continual worship of God Almighty and His Christ by four Living creatures, twenty four elders and redeemed Saints.

He is worshipped by myriads and myriads, thousands and thousands of Heavenly Angels, by creatures in Heaven, on earth and beneath the earth with great joy in honouring God. Thanksgiving, glorifying and praising the victorious Messiah has been a continual activity in Heaven.

When we view these activities closely, Christmas is seen as an extended celebration of Christ’s victory which is and will gloriously take place in Heaven eternally.

The deliverance of God’s children from the hands of our arch-enemy Lucifer-satan deserves a louder and lengthier celebration here on earth as well.

Are we not created and redeemed by the blood of the Lamb for this purpose?

There has been great joy in the faces of students and parents when their children pass their examinations. There are elated thoughts and appreciations when they pass their competitive exams and win World Sports events etc.

However, the birthday of Jesus Christ, the deliverer of God’s people from the hands of the dreaded enemy, the spiritual terrorist-satan deserves a surpassing acknowledgement and continual celebration with louder praises.

The fulfilment of Genesis 3:15, Psalm 68:21 and Mt.1:21 was for our eternal benefit. It was made possible only through the birth of Jesus Christ who came to earth to bear the ordeals mentioned in Isaiah 53 for our redemption.

Many scientists have left the earth without discovering Salvation for their souls. Many conquerors and heroes have gone before they could triumph over their sins.

Their souls are said to be in torment in the lake of fire that burns with brimstone. The punishments of Hell are indescribable and more horrible than COVID-19 pandemic.

It is worse than unimaginable degrees of disasters which people often face on earth. Hence, I am sending my deepest wish to all people that everyone may spend this Christmas season by accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord, God and personal Saviour to escape the stated horrible punishments of Hell so that we may enter the Heavenly Kingdom safely.

Christmas is celebrated by warmly welcoming our Saviour Jesus Christ to dwell within us eternally.

Merry Christmas.

Atonoka Swu Pastor, UCPM, Kohima.

Reader’s Post

greater US population.

The findings showed that excess time on social media may displace forming more important in-person relationships, achieving personal or Sir, While the recent laying of foundation stones for 14 National Highprofessional goals, or even way (NH) projects in Nagaland by Union minister for Road, Transport & simply having moments of Highways, Nitin Gadkari on December 4 is welcomed, I feel extremely valuable reflection.

The authors suggest that disheartened to know the most crucial road project—the foothill road— social comparison may also was found missing in the list.

With regard to this matter, I write this letter expressing extreme disunderlie these findings. pleasure over the inconsiderate decisions made by the government towards The findings are of particular importance given that de- Nagaland.

The Naga foothill road project had been a dream plan for every Naga. pression was recently declared However, its omittance had been a huge blow. In addition, I would also to be the leading global cause of disability by the World like to draw the attention of the concerned authority that frequent impoHealth Organization and ac- sition of blockade by certain organisations in Assam has been causing counts for more disability-ad- inconvenience to the people of the state especially 11 Naga tribes who justed life-years than all other pass through Assam.

The economy of the state is greatly affected so does the domestic mental disorders.

“These findings are also lives. With the halt in transportations every other day, we see price hikes particularly important to con- in almost every essential commodity.

I therefore request the state government to take up the foothill road sider in the age of Covid-19,” project on priority.

Primack said.

Thumben Humtsoe, Duncan Basti (IANS) of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

Foothill road dilemma

he said. “These actions are in violation of the bilateral agreements and protocol on ensuring peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the India-China border areas,” Srivastava added. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Thursday blamed India again for the border standoff in eastern Ladakh.

“We have taken note of the Chinese side’s statement that it observes ‘strictly the agreements between the two sides and is committed to resolving the border issue through dialogue and safe-

Delhi BJP workers stage protest outside residences of AAP govt ministers

Anti-national forces behind farmers’ protest: Sarangi

Lalu Prasad (File)

Ranchi, Dec 11 (PTI): The Jharkhand High Court on Friday deferred RJD boss Lalu Prasad’s bail plea hearing in a fodder scam case by six weeks, in keeping with the request of his lawyer.

The case pertains to fraudulent withdrawal of over Rs 3.13 crore from Dumka treasury, when Prasad was the chief minister of undivided Bihar.

D eva r s h i M a n d a l , Prasad’s counsel, said he needed six weeks to respond to a supplementary affidavit filed by the CBI on Thursday, and collate veri-

BJP chief Adesh Gupta along with MP Manoj Tiwari, Gautam Gambhir and BJP Mayor Jai Prakash protest outside Delhi CM Residence at Civil Lines in New Delhi.

New Delhi, Dec 11 (PTI): Leaders and workers of the BJP’s Delhi unit and the party’s frontal organisations on Friday staged protests near residences of ministers of the Kejriwal government over the municipal corporation funds issue.

Heavy police deployment was made outside the residences of the ministers, a day after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders alleged that the house of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was “attacked by BJP goons”.

The Delhi BJP, however, refuted the allegations, saying their protest on Thursday at Sisodia’s residence was peaceful.

On the demonstrations on Friday, Delhi BJP spokesperson Aditya Jha said, “Our protest at Minister Kailash Gahlot’s residence was a message to the chief minister (Arvind Kejriwal) that the BJP will not hesitate from intensifying its stir in the interest of the people of Delhi and municipal corporation employees who are suffering due to funds held back by the government.”

Similar protests were held near residences of ministers Satyendar Jain, Gopal Rai and Rajendra Pal Gautam at the Civil Lines area and Imran Hussain at the Rouse Avenue, said Delhi BJP media head Navin Kumar.

Mayors and leaders of

the three BJP-ruled municipal corporations have been sitting on an indefinite dharna outside the Chief Minister’s residence for the last five days on the funds issue.They claim that the Delhi government is not paying Rs 13,000 crore dues to the civic bodies.

Delhi BJP president Adesh Gupta and Leader of Opposition in the Delhi assembly Ramvir Bidhuri will meet the lieutenant governor later in the day over the issue, Kumar said.

The AAP leadership has been accusing “corruption and mismanagement” at the municipal corporations and claiming payment of all dues to them in time.

Anurag Srivastava (File)

BHUBANESWAR, DEC 11 (IANS): Union Minister Pratap Sarangi on Friday said anti-national forces are behind the protest against the new farm laws.

He said the farmers have nothing to do with the ongoing protests against the new farm reform laws.

“Be it farmers or leaders, nobody is above law.

The farmers are being instigated by some people.

Some anti-national forces are behind the ongoing farmers’ protest. The protests have no basis,” Sarangi told the media persons here.

He said the new farm laws have been enacted for the development and benefit of the farmers.

The Minister said the Centre has assured that minimum support price (MSP) and mandi system will remain in the country.

“The middle-men will be affected following the enactment of the laws. The actual farmers are not protesting the farm laws. Some people having vested political interests are instigating the farmers,” he added. He said the farmers have welcomed the Centre’s farm laws which will benefit the farmers.

Notably, the farmers are protesting against the new farm laws enacted by the Centre and they are demanding the repeal of the laws. Several opposition parties have also supported the farmers’ agitation.

guarding peace and tranquillity’ in the border areas. We expect that the Chinese side will match its words with actions,” Srivastava said.

The armies of India and China are locked in a tense border standoff in eastern Ladakh since early May. Both sides have held multiple rounds of military and diplomatic talks. However, no breakthrough has been achieved yet. Srivastava said the two sides have continued to maintain communication through diplomatic and military channels. “It is our expectation that the further discussions will help both sides to achieve an agreement on a mutually acceptable solution for ensuring complete disengagement in all friction points along the LAC in the Western sector and full restoration of peace and tranquillity as early as possible,” he said.

TMCP, ABVP clash Former WB CM Buddhadeb’s health in Bengal college condition still critical: Hospital

Ko l kata , D ec 1 1 (PTI): Several students were injured in a clash between supporters of the Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad at a college in North 24 Parganas district on Friday, an official of the institute said.

The TMCP and the ABVP accused each other of using rods and hockey sticks during the clash at Gobardanga Hindu College.

The injured, belonging to both the groups, were rushed to local hospital by the respective student bodies, they said. An altercation began with TMCP members when ABVP supporters were going to submit a memorandum to the college authorities, over a recent incident, culminating in the clash, the college official said.

The union room and common room of the college were also ransacked after the clash.

OFFICE OF THE MEZOMIA MECHÜ KEHOU KOHIMA : NAGALAND

KOHIMA : NAGALAND

FELICITATION

The Chizami Welfare Organisation, Kohima would like to convey the warmest congratulations to Shri Wezope Kenye, Secretary, Government of Nagaland for being inducted into the coveted Indian Administrative Services (IAS).

CWOK is exceedingly pleased to see our member accomplishing distinguished success in his career.

May you continue to encourage and inspire our people.

Wishing you greater success in your service.

Sd/Wepu Thopi President

OFFICE OF THE

The Shena (Old) Tughalomi Kuqhakulu (SOTK) is honoured with Immense pride and joy, extend our heartiest congratuations to the following individuals: 1. Shri SK HEKISHE promoted to Project Director/ Additional Director, Soil & Water Conservation Department.

2. Shri P. HOTOSHE promoted to SDO (SC) Soil and Water Conservation Dept., Nagaland.

Er. V. Ghoshito Achumi Chairman, SOTK

Shri Shetovi Kits Secretary, SOTK

NOKLAK REGION

NATIONALIST DEMOCRATIC PROGRESSIVE PARTY All ranks and files of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, Noklak Region express our profound joy and happiness to our most respected President Mr. Chingwang Konyak, his entire team of Central Office Bearers, our Hon'ble Chief Minister Mr. Neiphiu Rio and Hon'ble Advisor Mr. L. Khumo for approving the organisation of the party for Noklak Region.

As we endeavour to strengthen the party and the Govt. in this remote new-born district, we seek the co-operation of all concerned.

(P. PEM SHIU) K-2023 President

OFFICE OF THE

DIMAPUR NKONJAN EZONMONTSÜ RÜI EKHÜNG H.Q. DIMAPUR TOWN, PIN-797112 DIMAPUR, NAGALAND

FELICITATION

Dimapur Nkonjan Ezonmontsu-rui Ekhung congratulates Mr. K. Libanthung Lotha, Commissioner and Secretary, GON a bonafide member of the Ekhung being conferred IAS. The DNEE wishes him good health and wisdom in discharging his duties.

P. Pius Lotha Chairman, DNEE

Mhademo Kithan Secretary, DNEE

OFFICE OF THE

KILOMI(M) VILLAGE COUNCIL

KONYAK UNION DIMAPUR

FELICITATION

With immense pride and joy, the Kilomi (M) Village Council convey our heartfelt congratulations and honour to the following individuals for attaining highest degree of success in their respective fields.

1. Dr. O. Amihe Swu for the successful completion of his PhD from the Dept. of English, School of Humanities, Hyderabad Central University on his research title "Remnants, Changes and Revivals: A study of Textual Traces of Pre-colonial Naga Culture, Changes Wrought by Colonialism and Contemporary Literacy Attempts of Recreation".

2. Rev. Dr. K. Howoto Zhimomi for being conferred with Doctor in Ministry (D.Min. Honors) by Apostolic Biblical Thelogical Seminary (ABTS) Delhi, India.

We, further wish them good luck in their future endeavours.

N. Phuhoi Swu Chairman Village Council Kilomi (MUDUTSUGHO)

FELICITATION

PRESS STATEMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIZAMI WELFARE ORGANISATION

Kiheto Kiho Secretary Village Council Kilomi (MUDUTSUGHO)

for quite some time now, was admitted to the hospital on December 9 as his breathing problems aggravated.

“Bhattacharjee had an uneventful night in the hospital but his prognosis is still guarded and he still remains critical,” the statement said.

Doctors are keeping “constant vigil on his health situation”, it said. The twotime CM, who is on ventilator support, “tries to open his eyes on verbal commands”, the hospital said.

"Facta Non Verba"

MMK FELICITATES LHOUCHALIE VIYA

The Mezomia Mechü Kehou has congratulate Lhouchalie Viya, IAS, Secretary to the Govt. of Nagaland Home, NSDMA, a very active member of its community for being conferred the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (I.A.S) by the Govt. of India.

The Union felt honoured and pray that God Almighty grant him sound health and wisdom through his service, and further wishes him to do greater things in the days to come.

(MHIESIRIALIE SIRIE) (KEZHASELIE K. KUOTSU) President, MMK Gen. Secy., MMK

Kolkata, Dec 11 (PTI): The health condition of former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee continued to remain critical on Friday, with doctors monitoring his vital parameters from time to time, the private hospital, where he is undergoing treatment, said in a statement.

The veteran CPI(M) leader, who has been suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other age-related ailments

DP-5490

New Delhi, Dec 11 (PTI): India on Friday said the military standoff in eastern Ladakh in the last six months has been a result of the actions by China which sought to effect a “unilateral change” in the status along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The comments

by External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava came at a media briefing when asked about the fresh comments by the Chinese foreign ministry blaming India again for the border situation in eastern Ladakh. “Our position has been very clear and has been articulated several times in the past. The situation that we have seen since the last six months has been a result of the actions of the Chinese side which has sought to effect a unilateral change in status along the LAC in eastern Ladakh,”

flight of PSLV in ‘XL’ con- that this will be the 77th figuration (with 6 strap-on launch vehicle mission from motors), ISRO said, adding SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota.

DP-5496

fied documents on the RJD chief ’s judicial custody.

The CBI counsel, too, agreed to the proposal, following which the court slated January 22 as the next date of hearing in the case.

The central investigation agency had on Thursday filed a supplementary affidavit in the court, contending that Prasad has violated jail manual norms.

The CBI also said that his health condition was stable now, and he should be discharged from Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi and sent to Birsa Munda jail to serve his sentence.

The former Bihar CM has secured bail in three other cases related to the Rs 950-crore scam. On March 24, 2018, a special CBI court had sentenced the former Bihar CM to 14 years’ rigorous imprisonment in the Dumka treasury case.

Border standoff in Ladakh result of actions by China: India

PSLV-C50, which is the 52nd mission of PSLV, will launch CMS-01 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

DIMAPUR - 797112 : NAGALAND

FELICITATION

The Konyak Union Dimapur (KUD) would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to Shri. K. S. Anden Konyak, S/o Lt. Kossam Shamnyak on being inducted into the prestigious Indian Administrative Service.

The KUD would like to express it's profound gratitude to the Govt. of India and Govt. of Nagaland for acknowledging his dedication and service to our State.

The KUD further wishes him the best and success in all his future endeavors.

MOSA KONYAK President, KUD

LANGPHONG WANMAI Asst/Gen. Secy, KUD

DP-5492

J’khand HC defers Lalu’s bail hearing in fodder scam case

strengthen bilateral defence cooperation, it added.

His visit is seen as a reflection of India’s growing strategic ties with the two countries and is expected to further open up new avenues for cooperation in the defence and security sphere.

Gen. Naravane’s visit comes in the midst of fast-paced developments in the Gulf region including normalisation of Israel’s relations with several Arab countries as well as situation arising out of the assassination of Iran’s top nuclear weapons scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh.

Ahead of his visit to the UAE and Saudi Arabia,

B en g a l u ru, D ec 11 (PTI): The launch of communication satellite CMS-01 onboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C50), is scheduled on December 17 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, the Indian Space Research Organisation said on Friday.

“PSLV-C50, which is the 52nd mission of PSLV, will launch CMS-01 from the Second Launch Pad (SLP) of Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. The launch is tentatively scheduled at 15:41 Hrs IST on December 17, 2020 subject to weather conditions,” the space agency said.

CMS-01 is a communication satellite envisaged for providing services in Extended-C Band of the frequency spectrum, it said.

The Extended-C Band coverage will include Indian mainland, AndamanNicobar and Lakshadweep Islands.

CMS-01 is the 42nd Communication Satellite of India.

PSLV-C50 is the 22nd

K-2026

a Guard of Honour at the headquarters of the UAE’s Land Forces and laid a wreath at the Martyr’s Point. “#COAS also interacted with Major General Saleh Mohammed Saleh Al Ameri, Commander #LandForces & Staff and discussed issues of mutual interest & defence cooperation,” the Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information said in a tweet on Friday.

It said that Gen. Naravane also visited the Land Forces Institute, Infantry School and Armour School on Thursday.

The Army chief ’s visit to the UAE aims to further

New Delhi, Dec 11 (PTI): India and Uzbekistan are standing together firmly against terrorism and have similar concerns over separatism, extremism and fundamentalism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday at a virtual summit with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

In his opening remarks, Modi also said that India wants to further deepen its development partnership with Uzbekistan, and cited growing cooperation between the two sides in diverse sectors including defence and agriculture.

Talking about convergence of views between the two countries on regional issues, he said an Afghanled and Afghan-controlled process is required to restore peace in Afghanistan.

Modi also said that it was important to preserve the gains of the past two decades in Afghanistan.

“We have similar concerns over extremism, fundamentalism and separatism...We both are standing firmly together against terrorism,” Modi said.

PSLV-C50 to launch communication satellite CMS-01 on Dec 17: ISRO

K-2022

Gen. Naravane’s visit comes in the midst of fast-paced developments in the Gulf region including normalisation of Israel’s relations with several Arab countries. (Twitter)

the Army said in a statement in New Delhi that “During the visit, he will be meeting his counterparts and senior military leadership of these countries. The visit is historic in the sense that it will be the first time an Indian Army chief is visiting the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”.

According to the official schedule, the Army chief will visit Saudi Arabia from December 13 to 14.

Gen. Naravane’s visit to the Gulf region comes days after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s trips to Bahrain and the UAE. In the last few years, India’s ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE have witnessed a major upswing.

Last month, the Army chief travelled to Nepal on a three-day visit that had significant diplomatic overtone.

In October, Gen. Naravane travelled to Myanmar along with Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on a very crucial visit during which India decided to supply an attack submarine to the Myanmar Navy besides agreeing to further deepen military and defence ties.

India, Uzbekistan firmly against terrorism: Modi

DP-5494

Army chief tours Middle East countries

DUBAI, DEC 11 (PTI): Chief of Army Staff Gen. MM Naravane has met Commander of the UAE’s Land Forces and Staff Major General Saleh Mohammed Saleh Al Ameri and discussed key issues of mutual interest and defence cooperation, the Indian Army said on Friday.

Gen. Naravane is currently on a six-day tour of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, in a first-ever visit by a head of the Indian Army to the two strategically important Gulf countries.

According to the Indian Army, Gen. Naravane on Wednesday received

7

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

8

business/state

India, Uzbekistan ink 9 pacts Agreements signed on renewable energy, digital technologies, cyber security, development projects

KAKURO

No. 4392 Yesterday’s solution No. 4391

No. 3416 Yesterday’s solution No. 3415

WATER DELIVERY

In and around Kohima Contact : 9612734047 8413038223 K-2007

(From p-1) The union said that late Chophy has left an excellent and lasting legacy, for which he would be forever remembered. “We have lost an excellent and an abled leader,” DSSU said and conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family members at this hour of grief.

DDCF: Dimapur District Citizens’ Forum (DDCF) has also expressed deep grief over the sudden demise of Ghokheto Chophy.

In a condolence message, the forum said his contributions and services for a good cause, especially for the citizens of Dimapur in particular and the whole society in general would be greatly missed.

Quoting 2 Timothy 4:7, DDCF said “He has indeed fought a good fight”.

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Contact : 7085416488

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4. Diezephe : Rs. 8.30 Lacs 100/100 Price Negotiable, No Broker Please Contact : 9862954673 9436865033 DP-5405

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FOR URGENT SALE Innova Crysta Dumper 1618 Honda WRV

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CONTACT NO. : +918730055174

AT BURMA CAMP

JASOKIE COLONY LANE 3 Rs. 370/- PER SQ. FT. SLIGHTLY NEGOTIABLE CONTACT : 7005111602

It has also conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that his soul rest in peace.

RFIN: Rongmei Indigenous forum Nagaland (RFIN) has expressed grief and pain over the sudden demise of Ghokheto Chopi.

In a condolence message, RFIN described late Ghokheto was a straight forward person and said he had been “engaged full time for the welfare of Dimapur people.” It said he had worked tirelessly for the people of Dimapur on many pertaining issues, adding that his contributions have been engraved in the history of developing district of Dimapur. In his demise, the forum said “we have lost a visionary leader” and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that the departed soul rest in peace.

LAND FOR SALE All size of land available at Naga United Village Rate : 200 per sq. ft.

Contact No. : 9089179645

DP-5491

Across 4. Spud (6) 7. Permission to proceed (3,5) 8. Slanting type (6) 10. Nimble (5) 13. Christmas (4) 14. Bill of fare (4) 15. Car’s hooter (4) 16. Feline (3) 17. Part of speech (4) 19. Midday (4) 21. Vicious act (9) 23. Atmosphere (4) 24. Sudden blast of wind (4) 26. Shed tears (3) 27. Horse’s gait (4) 29. Heroic (4) 32. Shortly (4) 33. Cost (5) 34. Account (6) 35. Eastern (8) 36. Dazed state (6) Down 1. Precocious girl (5) 2. Unadorned (5) 3. Run away (4) 4. Previous (5) 5. Duck type (4) 6. Island in SE Asia (6) 9. Sport (6) 11. Jewel (3) 12. Of the moon (5) 13. Nine-sided figure (7) 15. Centre of a wheel (3) 16. Shy (3) 18. Public speaker (6) 20. Freshwater mammal (5) 21. Purchase (3) 22. Groove (3) 23. Nab (6) 25. So or thus (3) 28. Helicopter blade (5) 30. Ski-slope (5) 31. Prison rooms (5) 32. Cleaning agent (4) 33. Bard (4)

Chophy passes away

LAND FOR SALE at Old Showuba 2000 ft. away from four lane and 400 ft. from main road at Rs. 140 per sq. ft.

(Negotiable) Contact : 9612259663

DP-5477

No. 9773 Yesterday’s solution No. 9772

cines, it said in a release.

“As ADB’s developing members prepare to vaccinate their people as soon as possible, they need financing to procure vaccines as well as appropriate plans and knowledge to be able to safely, equitably, and efficiently manage the vaccination process,” ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa said.

He further noted that “APVAX will play a critical role in helping our developing members meet these challenges, overcome the pandemic, and focus on economic recovery.”

ADB said more than 14.3 million positive cases have been identified in Asia and the Pacific, causing more than 2,00,000 deaths.

As the pandemic persists, economic growth in developing Asia is projected to contract by 0.4 per cent in 2020 — the first regional gross domestic product contraction since the early 1960s, it added.

LAND FOR SALE

@ Bamunpukhuri A, Dimapur

4 kms from Zion Hospital.

No land filling reqd.

Approach road and drainage provided.

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DP-5508

Contact : 9383234687 9436612314

WOODEN WORKS Can order through whatsapp with home delivery # Specialized in wooden doors and windows # Deals in wooden furniture works.

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DP-5249

New Delhi, Dec 11 (PTI): The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Friday said it has launched a USD 9 billion vaccine initiative that will offer support to its developing member economies to procure and deliver COVID-19 vaccines.

ADB has launched a USD 9 billion vaccine initiative — the Asia Pacific Vaccine Access Facility (APVAX) — offering rapid and equitable support to its developing members as they procure and deliver effective and safe coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vac-

CHRISTMAS SEASON OFFER !!! HURRY DISCOUNT PRICE FOR LIMITED PERIOD ONLY 1. Near Dimapur College Land with Building Area : 3000 sq. ft.

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Actual Price : 50 Lakhs Offer Price : 40 Lakhs 3. Indisen Land with Building Price : 15 Lakhs NO BROKER # 8732002080/ 8787470411

DP-5321

Su doku

ures from some key players such as Tata Motors.

In terms of utility vehicles, sales grew by 17.16 per cent to 103,525, while vans’ offtake went up by 8.23 per cent to 11,424 units against the same month a year ago.

However, the data revealed that three-wheelers sales went down to 23,626 units in November 2020 compared to 55,778 units on a y-o-y basis, marking a decrease by (-) 57.64 per cent.

Besides, two-wheeler sales were 1,600,379 units in November 2020, compared to 1,410,939 units, representing a growth of 13.43 per cent.

ADB launches USD 9 bn COVID-19 vaccine initiative NCD president Ghokheto

DP-5437

Crossword

sold during the like period of 2019. Nevertheless, the data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) showed a sequential growth in sales during October.

In October, a total of 3,10,294 passenger vehicles were sold in the domestic market. Among subsegments, the data showed that car sales in the country fell by (-) 2.77 per cent to 149,949 units in November, compared with 154,223 units during the year-ago period.

In October, car sales stood at 182,692 units.

As per SIAM, the data does not include sales fig-

DP-5488

its previous close.

On a weekly basis, the rupee has gained 16 paise.

“The Indian rupee ended flat this Friday as persistent dollar purchases from RBI offset gains from foreign equity inflows into the domestic markets,” said Sriram Iyer, Senior Research Analyst at Reliance Securities.

Further, optimism surrounding the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines and hopes of additional US stimulus aid has also helped the local unit, Iyer noted.

New Delhi, Dec 11 (IANS): The festive season boost, along with pent-up demand, accelerated domestic passenger vehicles’ sales in November on a year-onyear basis.

However, the sales momentum slowed on the sequential basis.

According to industry data released on Friday, passenger vehicles sales rose by 4.65 per cent in November on a YoY basis.

The category includes sub-segments of cars, utility vehicles and vans.

A total of 264,898 passenger vehicles were sold in the domestic market from an off-take of 253,139 units

K-2028

Mumbai, Dec 11 (PTI): The Indian rupee ended almost flat at 73.64, up 2 paise, against the American currency on Friday as dollar buying by banks weighed on the domestic currency.

At the interbank forex market, the domestic unit opened at 73.65 against the US dollar and witnessed an intra-day high of 73.56 and a low of 73.71.

The local unit finally closed at 73.64 against the American currency, registering a rise of 2 paise over

areas including new and renewable energy, digital technologies, cyber security, community development projects, and in sharing of information on movement of goods.

The statement said the Indian side confirmed the approval of USD 448 million of Line of Credit for four developmental projects in Uzbekistan in the fields of road construction, sewerage treatment and information technology. India had announced a USD 1-billion line of credit to Uzbekistan in 2018.

In his remarks, Modi also said that India wants to further intensify its development partnership with Uzbekistan and expressed happiness that many projects are being considered in that country under the

ment, energy, agriculture, education and science and technology.

“The leaders agreed that both sides should work towards an early conclusion of Bilateral Investment Treaty which shall facilitate investment promotion and protection for further improvement of trade and economic cooperation,” the statement said.

Highlighting the importance of connectivity projects to boost trade, the Indian side said the Chabahar post could be a fulcrum of connectivity to Central Asia. It also requested Uzbekistan to consider joining the international NorthSouth Transport Corridor.

On confronting the threat of terrorism, the two sides underlined the need for every country to ensure that its territory is not used to launch terrorist attacks against other countries.

Both sides called for an early finalisation of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

The joint statement said the two sides called for comprehensive reform of the UN structures including the UN Security Council with expansion in both categories of membership.

DP-5506

Rupee ends nearly flat at 73.64 against USD

Narendra Modi

Indian Line of Credit.

He referred to cooperation between the two countries in key areas of defence, space and atomic energy sectors.

“Our security partnership is becoming a strong pillar of bilateral relations.

Last year, the first joint military exercise between our armed forces took place.

Our joint efforts are also increasing in the areas of space and atomic energy,” he said.

Modi also said India was ready to share its expertise and experience with Uzbekistan as per its development priorities.

“India has great potential in areas such as infrastructure, IT, education, health, training and capacity building, which can be useful for Uzbekistan. The establishment of a joint working group on agriculture among us is an important and positive step,” he said.

Uzbekistan is a key country in Central Asia which India considers as its ‘extended neighbourhood’.

The bilateral ties now encompass a wider canvas of cooperation including in areas of defence and security, trade and invest-

DP-5498

importance to the security and stability of the entire region.

In his opening remarks, Modi said the peace process in Afghanistan must preserve the achievements of the past two decades.

“We also have a similar approach on regional security issues. We agree that the restoration of peace in Afghanistan requires a process that itself is led, owned and controlled by Afghanistan. It is also necessary to preserve the achievements of the last two decades,” he said.

The joint statement said India and Uzbekistan expressed their unanimity in their support for a united, sovereign and democratic Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Holding that the current level of bilateral trade does not reflect the true potential, the two leaders also instructed officials concerned to fast-track the conclusion of an ongoing joint feasibility study that will pave the way for commencement of negotiations on a preferential trade agreement, it said.

The agreements signed are aimed at expanding cooperation in a range of

Nov YoY passenger vehicle sales rises, but car off-take down 2.77%

DP-5505

New Delhi, Dec 11 (PTI): India and Uzbekistan on Thursday signed nine agreements to broadbase cooperation in an array of areas and agreed to step up efforts for an early conclusion of a bilateral investment treaty, at a virtual summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

In the wide-ranging talks, Modi and Mirziyoyev strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and reaffirmed the determination of their countries to combat the menace by “destroying” terrorist safe-havens, networks, infrastructure and funding channels, according to a joint statement.

Ways to speed up connectivity projects linking central Asia was a major focus of the summit and the Indian side welcomed a Uzbek proposal to hold a trilateral dialogue among India, Iran and Uzbekistan to promote connectivity through the Chabahar port.

The statement said the two leaders discussed the situation in Afghanistan and noted that establishment of peace and stability in that country is of great

Nagaland Post, Dimapur saturDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

Harris named Time’s EU leaders clinch deal on Biden, 2020 ‘Person of the Year’ tougher 2030 climate goal

European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen take part in a face-to-face EU summit in Brussels, Dec 11. (Reuters)

B RU S S E L S, D E C 1 1 (AGENCIES): European Union countries agreed a new climate change target for the bloc on Friday after haggling through the night in Brussels, pulling the political trigger on a policy revamp to make every sector greener. Leaders of the 27 member states agreed to cut their net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% from 1990 levels by 2030, substantially toughening an existing 40% target.

The EU wants to reach “net zero” emissions by 2050, a deadline that scientists say the world must meet to avert the most catastrophic impacts of climate change.

European Council President Charles Michel, who chaired the talks, called the EU the leader in the fight against climate change, and said the target had been hard-fought, but was “credible”. European Commis-

9

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

sion President Ursula von der Leyen said it would put the bloc “on a clear path towards climate neutrality in 2050”. The EU will present its target at a United Nations global virtual summit on Saturday. The EU emissions trading market already seeks to put a price on the carbon emissions that drive climate change.

The price of permits rose to an all-time high above 31 euros a tonne on Friday, on expectations that the supply of permits would be cut, to force deeper emissions cuts.

The target is a compromise between wealthier, mostly western and Nordic EU countries that want more ambitious action and eastern states with coaldependent power sectors and energy-intensive industries, which wanted specific conditions attached to emissions cuts.

POORER COUN-

TRIES’ FEARS Poland held out alone until dawn for a guarantee that promised funding from the EU carbon market for poorer countries would not be reduced.

It also sought assurances that future national emissions-cutting targets, set by Brussels for certain sectors, would be based on gross domestic product - meaning that less prosperous states would be required to cut less.

A majority of countries had opposed these demands on grounds that they would pre-empt detailed proposals that the EU’s executive Commission will make next year. The final deal gives a commitment to address “imbalances” in carbon market funding that could leave poorer countries worse off.

The leaders agreed to meet again next year to tackle the question of GDP-based emissions targets.

The Commission’s proposals will speed a shift to electric vehicles and aim to mobilise investments in the huge low-carbon infrastructure that will now be needed - including a requirement for extra energy sector investments of 350 billion euros ($420 billion) a year this decade.

The “at least 55%” target is as good as final, but will need approval from the European Parliament, which supports a more ambitious 60% cut.

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris (File)

WASHINGTON, DEC 11 (IANS): US Presidentelect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris have been named Time magazine’s ‘Person of the Year’, for offering “restoration and renewal in a single ticket”.

The magazine made the announcement on its Twitter page late Thursday night. Biden and Harris ran in one of the most contentious presidential races in American history, which saw a record number of voters turn out amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic that continues to rage across the country, The Hill news outlet said in a report.

The former Vice President won 51.3 per cent of the popular vote, garnering 81.2 million over incumbent President Donald Trump’s 74.2 million votes, according to tallies from the Cook Political Report.

Biden and Harris beat three other finalists: frontline healthcare workers and America’s top infectious dis-

eases expert Anthony Fauci; the racial justice movement; and President Trump, the BBC reported.

In a statement, Time’s editor-in-chief Edward Felsenthal wrote: “For changing the American story, for showing that the forces of empathy are greater than the furies of division, for sharing a vision of healing in a grieving world, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are TIME’s 2020 Person of the Year.” Biden is the 10th President-elect to achieve the title, but his selection marks the first time a President-elect and Vice President-elect have shared the cover together, The Hill news reported.

For mer Presidents Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover and Gerald Ford are the only US Presidents never named “Person of the Year”. Every year, Time chooses a person, a group, an idea or an object that “for better or for worse” has had the most impact on the events over the 12 months.

Strong possibility of no-deal Brexit, warns Boris Johnson LONDON, DEC 11 (PTI): British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued the starkest warning yet that the UK could be out of the EU on January 1, 2021, without a trade agreement in place as the two sides remain divided on key areas amidst last-ditch talks between the chief Brexit negotiators.

After Johnson’s urgent talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels failed to break the logjam over the European Union (EU) fishing rights in UK territorial waters as a nonmember and competition rules for businesses, the Prime Minister admitted that a Sunday deadline for their next discussion does not hold out great promise.

“At the moment, I have to tell you in all candour, the treaty is not there yet and that was the strong view of our Cabinet,” Johnson said on Thursday night.

“There’s a strong possibility that we will have a solution much more like Australian relationship with the EU than a Canadian relationship with the EU,” he said.

An Australia-style agreement effectively means no trade agreement and the two sides would then be trading on World Trade Organisation (WTO) norms, with considerable barriers to movement of goods as well as people.

With the UK no longer signed up to the EU rules, it would also mean travel

Boris Johnson (File)

restrictions for Britons travelling to and from the EU at the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31, given the coronavirus pandemic lockdown rules.

“I think there is a significant possibility we could get that deal and I think we should continue to work towards it… [but a deal] can’t come at any price,” said UK culture secretary Oliver Dowden during media interviews on Friday.

“We’re pretty much 90 per cent of the way there, but there are these two areas which are outstanding and which no reasonable prime minister could accept. Namely, we do need to control our own sovereign waters and particularly our fishing policy,” he said.

He reiterated that the UK government, as it leaves the 27-member economic bloc, should be free to set its own rules and regulations and not face penalties if the EU changes their regulations and it does not match them.

“I think it’s perfectly reasonable to push back on those things,” he said.

Both sides have been

locked in intense negotiations over the last few weeks in an attempt to break through what have been labelled as “significant divergences”.

Johnson maintains that he “tried very hard to make progress” at his dinner with Von der Leyen in Brussels on Wednesday, but the EU was making things “unnecessarily difficult”.

Von der Leyen accused the British side of not being able to agree on a “balance of fairness” and that a decision will be taken on Sunday, which UK Cabinet ministers have indicated will be the point of finality in the negotiations.

The EU has set out its contingency plans in the event of no trade agreement being reached with the UK. The plans aim to ensure that the UK and the EU air and road connections still run after the post-Brexit transition period concludes at the end of this month and also allow the possibility of fishing access to each other’s waters for up to a year, or until an agreement is reached.

The UK had voted to leave the EU in a referendum in 2016 and under the Withdrawal Agreement, or the so-called divorce pact, they have until December 31 to define their future trading arrangements or part with no deal – which would end the current tarifffree and quota-free partnership they share in most sectors of the economy.

Imran Khan (File)

ceedings.

O n Fr i d ay, K h a n elevated Sheikh Rashid Ahmed as interior minister and appointed Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh as finance minister.

State-run Radio Pakistan reported that Ahmed was already a part of the

Cabinet working as minister for railways, while Hafeez Sheikh was serving as advisor on finance and revenue.

Hafeez Sheikh is not an elected member and he could not lead several committees. He was appointed as minister under Article

Aus Covid vaccine program scrapped

CANBERRA, DEC 11 (IANS): An Australian Covid-19 vaccine under development by the University of Queensland (UQ) and local biotech firm CSL will not progress to Phase 2/3 trials after false positive HIV test results were reported, it was announced on Friday.

Relevant parties announced that despite eliciting an effective virus response and strong safety profile, a deal for the Australian government to purchase over 50 million doses of the vaccine had been cancelled, reports Xinhua news agency. UQ and CSL stressed there was no possibility the vaccine causes HIV infection and that 216 people involved in the trial experienced no serious adverse health effects.

The issue stems from the use of an HIV protein to stabilize UQ’s molecular clamp vaccine.

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Despite posing no risk to health, the presence of the protein prompts an antibody response which is detectable in HIV tests.

However, due to the implications of delivering the vaccine to the broader populations and potential interference with existing HIV testing procedures, CSL and the Australian government agreed vaccine development would not proceed to Phase 2/3 trials.

“Obviously if we have other great options for vaccines, then it doesn’t make sense for people to have a false-positive HIV test. So that’s why this has stopped,” Clinical epidemiologist at the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Nancy Baxter told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Chief Scientific Officer for CSL Dr. Andrew Nash said the outcome “high-

lights the risk of failure associated with early vaccine development”.

CSL will continue with plans to manufacture approximately 30 million doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine candidate with first doses planned for release in Australia in early 2021.

Following the failure of the UQ vaccine, the Australian government revealed it would commission the manufacture of additional 20 million doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca and increase access to the US Novavax vaccine to around 50 million doses.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said it was no surprise that not all vaccine candidates made it through the trial process and that a commitment to safety and health was central to the government’s response.

“I do want to thank, though, Professor Paul Young and all the team up there at the University of Queensland for the amazing work that they have done in getting the vaccine to that stage,” Morrison said.

“We will continue to support and fund the work that they’re doing on molecular clamp research on vaccines, which has application in many other areas.”

91 (9) of the Constitution and can serve as a minister for six months. He must be elected as a member of the National Assembly or Senate to continue after that.

Brigadier (Retd) Ijaz Ahmad Shah who was serving the interior minister was appointed as minister for narcotics control, while Azam Khan Swati was appointed as minister for railways.

It is believed that Hafeez Sheikh would be made a senator in March when the election for the upper house is scheduled to be held. The most notable elevation in the new Cabinet is that of Ahmed, who despite failing to improve the functioning of the railways, was given the charge of Regd. No. 911/20

the interior ministry, a key portfolio.

The IHC judgment noted that Article 93 of the Constitution allows the prime minister to appoint up to five advisors and conferring of a federal minister status on an advisor is “only for the purpose of perks and privileges” and “does not make the advisor a federal minister as such”.

The court had subsequently set aside the notification of the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation, headed by Hafeez.

The move was seen as a major blow to government’s privatisation efforts that were being spearheaded by un-elected members of the federal Cabinet, the Dawn newspaper reported.

DECLARATION

We are pleased to announce that, exclusive JAWED HABIB Unisex Saloon has been inugrated by Maj (Dr) Mughavi Y Sema. In City Tower near by HDFC Bank Dimapur, Nagaland.

Appointment booking contact No:- 9774958266/7005163189.

Date : 11/12/2020

I, Shri Kyurimong Sangtam, father of Mrs K Sechumla Sangtam, permanent resident of Seyochung Village, do hereby solemnly declare on oath on this 11th day of December, 2020 at Dimapur as follows: 1. That it has come to the knowledge of the family members that Mrs K Sechumla Sangtam has availed loan and is further availing from different individuals or group for the reason known to her alone. And in this regard, the family members had warned her time and again. However, she turn to a deaf ear and is continuing to avail further loans which is never disclosed to me nor any family members, nor the said loans were availed for the purpose of any of the family member's requirement. The said loans were solely availed by herself and for her personal gain.

2. That any claim or demand in regard to the said loans availed by Mrs K Sechumla Sangtam must be claimed/demanded from her alone and no family member shall be held liable in any manner.

DECLARANT Solemnly sworn and signed before me by the declarant.

TEMSUMENLA Notary Public Govt. of Nagaland DP-5495

GOVERNMENT POLYTECHNIC KOHIMA

NO.GPK/ACDM-3/2017/

Dated, Kohima, the 11th Dec’ 2020

NOTIFICATION In view of the forth coming Regular Odd Semester (I/III/V) and Compartmental Even Semester (II/IV/VI) Examination tentatively scheduled to Commence from 15th January 2021 and 27th January 2021 respectively, the students of Government Polytechnic Kohima are hereby informed to fill up the Examination form w.e.f 17th - 19th December 2020 without fail. No extension of dates or complaints shall be entertained thereafter.

Examination forms links can be access from the institute website www.gpknagaland.org.

Compartmental Examination fee of Rs. 550/- may be deposited to office Account through Net banking or UPI, and upload the payment slip to the link provided in the website.

A/C Name : Principal, Govt. Polytechnic Kohima A/c No : 1147104000045289 Bank name : IDBI bank IFSC Code : IBKL0001147 For any clarification, you may contact the following numbers: 8974518681/ 8119823032.

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ISLAMABAD, DEC 11 (PTI): Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday reshuffled his Cabinet, days after a top court barred unelected advisers and special assistants from heading the Cabinet committees.

This is the fourth Cabinet shakeup since Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) came to power in 2018. The reshuffle followed the December 7 verdict of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) barring unelected advisers and special assistants from heading Cabinet committees.

The court ruled that special assistants and advisers to the prime minister were not members of the Cabinet and therefore, cannot be part of Cabinet pro-

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Pak PM Khan reshuffles Cabinet on court’s directive

(Er. Keyiekhru Rhutso ) PRINCIPAL K Y M C

Infotainment

Kronu inaugurates Naga Music Research Centre

Neiba Kronu along with other dignitaries at the inauguration of NMRC. (NP)

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o preserve the rich culture and music and to promote music education and industry, minister of Planning and Co-ordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs, Neiba Kronu inaugurated Naga Music Research Centre (NMRC) at the Nagaland College of Music and Fine Arts (NCMFA) on December 10.

In his brief address, Kronu congratulated the managing director NCMFA for setting up the research centre, which was unique and where in-depth research of Naga music could be done.

While there were dif-

ferent genres of music, Kronu said that music has no boundaries even in Naga context where musicians have reached a high stage. He reminded that music can play a vital role in building friendship even between different countries.

While lauding Naga musicians, he also attributed credit to the chief minister for his interest in initiation of music. However, he said that Nagas still had a long way to go for quality music.

He acknowledged the MD for setting up the research centre without assistance from the government

which was challenging yet encouraging. He further assured to explore all possible ways to assist the centre.

MD of NMRC Vesato Theluo in his introductory remark said the project has a wider vision to carry Naga culture and music to the next level of research for the younger generations to experience and be rooted in the original culture and music.

Advisor of Technical Education Medo Yhokha also accompanied the minister. Pastor CBCK Rev. Vezopa Rhakho pronounced the dedicatory prayer.

(Correspondent)

Ellen DeGeneres tests Covid positive

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omedian-host Ellen DeGeneres has revealed that she has tested Covid-19 positive, assuring fans she feels fine right now.

DeGeneres took to Instagram to share the health update, going on to reveal that production on her popular talk show has been suspended, with plans to resume in January.

“Hi Everyone, I want to let you all know that I tested positive for Covid19. Fortunately, I’m feeling fine right now. Anyone who has been in close contact with me has been notified, and I am following all proper CDC guidelines,” she wrote in a note posted on her social media.

“I’ll see you all again after the holidays. Please stay healthy and safe. Love, Ellen,” she added.

A Telepictures spokesperson confirmed the news of production getting halted to Variety.

The shutdown has come at a time when the show’s ratings were soaring. The show hit its highest rating since May during the week ending November 29.

The 18th season of the show premiered on September 21 after months of controversy involving an internal investigation after allegations of racism, sexual misconduct and other workplace problems.

(IANS)

by China’s Tencent Games, has sought permission from the government to relaunch in the country.

In a meeting called to discuss the proposal, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) chairperson Priyank Kanoongo “strongly

recommended” against the relaunch of the mobile app in India until appropriate legislations are in place for such online games, the officials said.

When asked about it, Kanoongo said an internal meeting was held to discuss the matter.

Taylor Swift drops new music video ‘Evermore’

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aylor Swift has released the first music video from her surprise new album ‘Evermore’.

The 30-year-old singer announced the sister LP to ‘Folklore’ on Thursday (10.12.20) morning and released the record just 16 hours later, and shortly afterwards, she shared the promotional film for new single ‘Willow’, a track which follows-up the events laid out in ‘Cardigan’.

In the video, Taylor sits at her piano before being tempted inside the instrument with a glowing thread, stepping out of a willow tree and into a fantasy world, where she initially chases the promise of her true love - who is played by her ‘Red’ tour dancer Taeok Lee - before breaking out of a glass cage and onto her golden path again.

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the blonde beauty climbs back out of her piano, where she is greeted by her true love and they leave a cottage hand-in-hand together.

In the chorus, she sings: “The more that you say, the less I know/ Wherever you stray, I follow/ I’m begging for you to take my hand/ Wreck my plans, that’s my man.”

Before the release of the video, Taylor teased what it meant in a YouTube chat window.

She said: “You’ve seen my co-star in this video somewhere before. One scene represents how I feel about fame. There’s a scene to represent each season throughout the journey of the video.”

And the singer also discussed the meaning of the song.

She said: “Willow is about intrigue, desire and the complexity that goes into

wanting someone. I think it sounds like casting a spell to make someone fall in love with you (an oddly specific visual).”

The ‘Love Story’ singer dropped the album as a thank you to fans, who always take the time to remember her on her birthday, which falls on 13 December.

She explained: “Ever since I was 13, I’ve been excited about turning 31 because it’s my lucky number backwards, which is why I wanted to surprise you with this now. You’ve all been so caring, supportive and thoughtful on my birthdays and so this time I thought I would give you something!

I also know this holiday season will be a lonely one for most of us and if there are any of you out there who turn to music to cope with missing loved ones the way I do, this is for you.”

(Contactmusic)

“It was an internal meeting and prima facie, the NCPCR is not in favour of recommending such games in the country,” Kanoongo told PTI. During the meeting, it was also pointed out that the game led to loss of many lives in the country, a senior official said.

No response had been received from PUBG to queries sent by PTI on the matter till the time of filing this report.

According to reports, India accounted for a significant portion of PUBG MOBILE’s downloads and users.

Days after the government ban, PUBG had announced that Chinese company Tencent Games would no longer be authorised to distribute the PUBG MOBILE franchise in India.

(PTI)

esearchers have revealed that water on Mars, in the form of brines, may not be as widespread as previously thought.

The research team combined data on brine evaporation rates, collected through experiments at the centre’s Mars simulation chamber, with a global weather circulation model of the planet to create planetwide maps of where brines are most likely to be found.

According to the study, published in The Planetary Science Journal, brines are mixtures of water and salts that are more resistant to boiling, freezing and evaporation than pure water.

Finding them has implications for where scientists will look for past or present life on Mars and where humans who eventually travel to the planet could look for water.

“We took all major phase changes of liquids into account -- freezing, boiling and evaporation - instead of just a single phase, as has commonly been the approach in the past,” said study author Vincent Chevrier from the University of Arkansas in the US. “It is looking at all the properties at the same time, instead of one at a time.

Then we build maps taking into account all those processes simultaneously,” Chevrier added.

Doing so indicates that previous studies may have overestimated how long brines remain on the surface in the cold, thin and arid Martian atmosphere.

“The most important conclusion is that if you do

not take all these processes together, you always overestimate the stability of brines. That is the reality of the situation,” Chevrier said.

Favourable conditions for stable brines on the planet’s surface are most likely to be present in mid-to high-northern latitudes, and in large im-

pact craters in the southern hemisphere, he said. In the shallow subsurface, brines might be present near the equator.

In the best-case scenario, brines could be present for up to 12 hours per day. “Nowhere is any brine stable for an entire day on Mars,” Chevrier noted.

(IANS)

Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys join forces for ‘Matches’

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Water on Mars not as widespread as previously thought: Study

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India’s apex child rights body ‘not in favour’ of PUBG relaunch in India ndia’s apex child rights body NCPCR has said it will not be appropriate to relaunch popular gaming app PUBG in the country until legislations are in place for such online games, according to officials.

PUBG was among 118 Chinese mobile applications banned by the government in September this year. The government had said these apps “are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order”.

PUBG, which was earlier distributed in India

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

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op stars Britney Spears and Backstreet Boys, who made every nineties kid scream with joy, have unveiled their latest collaboration titled Matches. “’Matches’ featuring my friends @BackstreetBoys is out now!!!!” Spears posted to Instagram.

The catchy song is available on the deluxe edition of Spears’ 2016 album “Glory”.

“I’m so excited to hear what you think about our song together!!!! You can also listen to Glory Deluxe everywhere now... including ‘Swimming in the Stars’ and the ‘Mood Ring’ remixes!!!! The love you guys have shown this album this year has been stupid amazing... like I can’t even believe it!!! I hope it brings you joy. GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!!!”

The Backstreet Boys, which consists of AJ McLean, Nick Carter, Kevin Richardson, Brian Littrell and Howie Dorough, were equally thrilled about the collaboration.

“What a GLORIOUS day it is... we’ve been asked about the possibility of a collab like this for the past 20 years and today is the day!! #BritneyXBackstreet is finally here! #Matches is out now on @britneyspears’ Glory Deluxe,” the group tweeted. The new version of the album includes the 17 tracks originally released on “Glory”, along with “Mood ring” remixes and the two previously unreleased tunes, “Matches” and “Swimming in the stars”.

(IANS)

CONGRATULATORY NOTE “We would like to convey our heartiest congratulations to Athel O. Lotha Secretary (Works and Housing) d/o Mrs. Wobeno & Mr. Tsensao Odyuo and w/o Renbo Lotha for being inducted into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). We are proud of the commitment, sincerity and dedication with which you have served the Government and the people as an NCS Officer amid trying times and circumstances and hope that you will continue to serve with the same zeal and vigour as an IAS Officer too.”

May the Lord bless you to grow and prosper both in your professional career as well as personal life!

- Children, grand and great grand-children and relatives of Lt. Lochumu & Lt. Tsümongo Yanthan, ex-pastor of Lakhuti Baptist Church, and Rtd. teacher of Lakhuti Village.

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Diphupar SC clinch DDL trophy

Players of Diphupar Sporting Club (Blue jersey) and Chekiye United (Neon Jersey) with match officials before the final match at DDSC stadium, Dimapur on Friday. (NP) Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR DEC 11 (NPN): Diphupar Sporting Club (DSC) emerged as the winner of the Ayida Honda Dimapur Division League (DDL) by defeating its rivals Chekiye United (CKU) 5-4 in a tie-breaker after both the teams failed to score during the final match on Friday at DDSC stadium.

With both teams winning one and losing one against each other earlier in the league matches, the clubs locked horns for the final. Both teams tried its best to get the opening goal

for the team on the first half; however none succeeded, with very few shots on target. CKU maintained much better ball possession during the first half, however, in the second half, DSC fought back with both teams acquiring almost equal ball possession.

With both teams unable to score in the total 80 minutes, the match was taken into a tie-breaker.

James Kithan, the goal keeper of DSC gave a marvellous winning saved on the 4th shot by the rival CKU. The final match of DDL at Dimapur District

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sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

Sports Complex (DDSC) was graced by advisor, Power, H Tovihoto Ayemi as the chief guest.

Addressing the gathering before the match, Ayemi acknowledged the five young professionals, Inonito Ghukhui Zhimomi, Tove Hokato Zhimomi, Hitova Ayemi, Kevilhulie Zakiesato and Wonito Zhimomi, who were also the organisers of DDL. He lauded the organiser for providing better platform to the football lovers of Dimapur.

Ayemi further maintained that Nagas are blessed with inborn talent;

Need to focus on dev of sports: Zhaleo

however people often fail to polish themselves in whatever fields they are.

He urged the gathering to polish, to put in extra effort, sheer determination, and to be more sincere and disciplined. “The rest we have it in us”, he added.

The champions DSC walked away with a cash price of 1 lakh and the winning trophy and medals, while the runners-up CKU received an amount of Rs. 50,000 with medals.

It may be noted that a total of 90 matches were played against 10 teams throughout the tournament.

Hamilton fit to race at Abu Dhabi GP after Covid recovery

India must come together under Rahane when Kohli departs Australia

ABU DHABI, DEC 11 (IANS): For mula One champion Lewis Hamilton has been allowed to participate in season ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix -scheduled to take place this weekend -- after completing a 10-day quarantine in Bahrain and testing negative for Covid-19. Hamilton had missed last Sunday’s Sakhir Grand Prix after testing positive for coronavirus, but the FIA and Mercedes have now both confirmed that he had passed a number of negative Covid-19 tests.

“The Mercedes-AMG Petronas Fl team is pleased to confirm that Lewis Hamilton will drive for the team in this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix,” the Formula 1 team said in a statement.

“Lewis tested negative for Covid-19 on Wednesday prior to completion of his self-isolation period in Bahrain. This enabled him to travel to Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon, and he tested negative on arrival. Lewis has therefore completed the protocols required by the FIA for his entry to the paddock tomorrow and will be able to take part in the race weekend,” it added. George Russell, who replaced Hamilton last week and came agonisingly close to a shock victory, will return to his Williams team for the 2020 season, Merecedes further informed.

the void or slot all-rounder Hanuma Vihari in there, with Shubman Gill or KL Rahul at six to bolster the batting.

Without Kohli, the team will also have to adapt to a vastly different brand of leadership under Rahane.

In the field, Kohli is one-man theatre.

Be it from the slip or the deep, he is an omnipresent ball of energy, exhorting greater efforts from his team mates and letting them know all about their mistakes.

Rahane’s approach appears more democratic.

He coaxed India to victory against Australia in a 2017 Dharamsala test which Kohli missed with a shoulder injury and was also in charge when India handed Afghanistan a thrashing inside two days in their 2018 test debut in Bengaluru.

Rahane should not even try to emulate Kohli’s leadership style, says former test spinner Harbhajan Singh.

“Looking at a personality like Virat, Rahane might think he has to adopt some of it to beat Australia, but I don’t think that’s necessary,” Harbhajan told a digital channel last month.

“All Rahane needs to do is be himself and make sure he gets the best out of his team.”

Ajinkya Rahane and Virat Kohli

NEW DELHI, DEC 11 (AGENCIES): Picturing India without Virat Kohli is like imagining The Beatles without John Lennon, but with the talismanic skipper due to say a quick “Hello, Goodbye” in Australia this is reality the tourists must face for much of the fourtest series.

Kohli will return home after the Adelaide opener to attend the birth of his first child, dealing a massive blow to his team mates as well as to broadcasters, who will struggle to find anyone capable of replacing the biggest drawcard in cricket.

Australians are unlikely to be overly disappointed with his absence, however.

“I’ve said this before, he is probably the best player I’ve ever seen in my life for so many reasons,” Australia coach Justin Langer said recently.

“It’s not only his batting but his energy, his passion for the game, the way he fields. I cannot believe the energy he displays in everything he does.”

At number four, the versatile Kohli charts the course of the innings. The 32-year-old was the thirdhighest scorer when India registered their maiden test series victory in Australia two seasons ago.

His deputy, Ajinkya Rahane, will have to move up a place in the order to fill

The Chuchuyimlang Baptist Church would like to cordially invite all the fulltime workers who served in the church, anuk apang and all the citizens of Chuchuyimlang to the Centenary celebration of our church as we celebrate hundred years of God’s faithfulness in our live and ministry.

Zhaleo Rio and others during the inaugural session of the 47th general session of PYO at Porba village on December 11.

DIMAPUR (NPN): State Sericulture, Excise & Minority Affairs advisor, Zhaleo Rio on Friday stressed on the need to pay special attention towards overall development of sports in Nagaland.

Addressing the inaugural session of the 47th general session 2020 of Porbami Youth Organization (PYO) at Porba village under Phek district, Zhaleo said that in order to excel in the field of sports, one has to start from the young age and undergo the requisite trainings.

In the competition arena of the sports activities, the advisor said, the role of parents and elders were also

crucial to boost the morale of the youth.

Also stressing on the need to do away with the attitude of being casual, he called upon the youth to come forward and be a key player of the competitive world.

As requested by PYO for black topping of Porba village approach road, Rio assured to take up the matter with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and the concerned authority.

Chairman Nagaland Handloom & Handicraft Development Corporation Limited, Miathou Krose, secretary Sericulture Nagaland, Orenpomo Kikon

and several other dignitaries also present at the inaugural function.

The inaugural function was chaired by Vetho Vadeo, welcome address was delivered by PYO president Veduta Dzudo, PYO games & sports secretary Khotso Puro administered the oath to the participating teams, Porba village head GB Veswuvo Chuzho pronounced traditional blessings, vote of thanks was proposed by Huvesu Puro.

The meet will continue till December 12. The two day sports meet is being marked by athletics, football, volleyball and basketball.

Jose Mourinho

L O N D O N, D E C 1 1 (AGENCIES): Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham Hotspur may be flying high in all competitions but the Portuguese coach conceded that he is unable to keep all of his players happy with England forward Dele Alli not getting any minutes in their Europa League win on Thursday.

S p u r s b e a t Roya l Antwerp 2-0 to seal top spot in their group but Alli was not one of the five substitutes used and midfielder Harry Winks, making a rare K Y M C

start, walked straight down the tunnel when he came off for Tanguy Ndombele in the second half.

“How can I keep them all happy? I don’t think they’re all happy at all, that’s the nature of football, I can no make miracles,” Mourinho told BT Sport.

“I told the players if they’re not subbed on just go for a hot shower,” the Portuguese said in reference to Winks.

“I told every player that left the pitch to go because when the weather

is cold I prefer they go to the dressing room and have a shower,” Mourinho later clarified.

“Winks decided to go and I am happy with that because I am the one that told him to do it.”

Spurs head into Sunday’s Premier League clash at Crystal Palace top of the standings and have not lost since the opening day of the season.

However, Alli has been a peripheral player this campaign, making only two appearances in the league, and the 24-year-old looked a frustrated figure on a chilly evening in north London.

“Let’s not run away from reality. A player on the bench who realises all five subs have been used of course is not a happy player and I would not expect him to be happy,” Mourinho said. Alli was linked with a move away from Spurs in the close season and could look for a transfer in next month’s window to boost his chances of making England’s Euro 2020 squad.

(T LIMA ) Pastor

(LANUMATONG) Convenor

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I can’t keep all my players happy, says Jose Mourinho

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Lack of facilities, resources affecting sportsmen: Rio

Neiphiu Rio addressing the NOA annual general meeting.

DIMAPUR, DEC 11 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio lamented that despite Nagaland having talented individuals-- the lack of facilities, resources and funding, have affected the overall growth of sportspersons.

Rio, who is also the president of the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA), while addressing the annual general meeting with the affiliated associations on December 11 at the State Banquet Hall, also pointed out the various challenges faced by the State, a DIPR report stated.

Many activities have been halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the chief minister urged that people must move forward and learn to live with it, as it was the new way of life.

Asserting that sports was highly competitive and

a full time job, Rio said that in order to deserve recognition and achieve one needed to be discipline, committed and dedicated.

He also suggested setting up of an office complex for the NOA, which would be functional throughout the year.

NOA secretary general, Abu Metha in his presentation spoke about the history of the association and its recent activities. He said that the Nagaland Olympic Association was established in 1987. However, the NOA got affiliated to the Indian Olympic Association only in 2004 through the collective efforts of various people such as chief minister, Neiphiu Rio and Er. Lanu Toy, the founding president of NOA. Abu also highlighted about the lack of proper sports infrastructures in the State, adding that the Indira

Gandhi Stadium at Kohima and the Cricket Ground at Sovima were the only two infrastructures in the State with proper and standard facilities.

He called for streamlining of various sports associations and strengthening them. Metha also proposed for reservation of posts for sports persons in various fields. He added that sports, is the most watched event in the world and it brings people together and unifies them.

The Nagaland Wrestling Association, in its presentation, informed the various activities taken up by the association. The association also informed that affiliation to the NWA is open to any district or tribe. The Nagaland Athletic Association also gave a presentation at the function where it highlighted the various goals and targets. During the meeting, the chief minister also launched the website of the Nagaland Athletics Association. Various agendas were also taken up in the house for approval.

The meeting was chaired by senior vice president NOA, Meren Paul, welcome address was delivered by vice president, K. Kire while vote of thanks was proposed by assistant general secretary, Neivikuolie Khatsu.

Hamilton, Doyle, Liverpool win SJA Awards

Lewis Hamilton and Hollie Doyle. (File)

L O N D O N, D E C 1 1 (AGENCIES): Seventimes Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, female jockey Hollie Doyle and Premier League champions Liverpool were the main winners at Britain’s Sports Journalists Association (SJA) awards on Thursday.

The ceremony was conducted virtually, instead of the usual gala

event, due to the COVID19 pandemic.

Hamilton was named Sportsman of the Year after becoming the most successful Formula One driver of all time in a recordbreaking season in which he equalled Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s seven titles.

The Mercedes driver, who also won the award in his debut 2007 season with

McLaren, is competing in the year’s final race in Abu Dhabi this weekend after recovering from the new coronavirus.

Doyle was Sportswoman of the Year after becoming the first female jockey to win five races on one card at Windsor in August.

“I’ve never felt like I have not been accepted in this industry at all to be honest, I think it is just the fact there aren’t as many females wanting to be jockeys as there are males,” she said.

“Doors are opening and things are changing, and they are going in the right direction so that’s great.”

Liverpool were Team of the Year.

“In many ways, it was a pretty exceptional season and an exceptional year, it’s an award for my team and I think they really deserved it,” said manager Juergen Klopp.

sports Pulev and Joshua engage in face to face verbal sparring L O N D O N, D E C 1 1 (AGENCIES): Heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua and Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev pulled off their masks and engaged in face-to-face verbal sparring on Friday at their weigh-in for Saturday’s title clash. The 31-year-old Joshua, who is putting his WBA, IBF and WBO belts on the line at Wembley Arena, hit the scales at 17 stone and 2.8 pounds.

That was heavier than a year ago when the Briton reclaimed his titles from Andy Ruiz in Saudi Arabia, at 16 stone 13, but lighter than the first Ruiz fight where he weighed in at 17 stone nine and suffered a shock defeat.

Pulev, 39, stepped up a pound lighter than Joshua and was in fighting mood.

“I’m amazing. Amazing boxing, amazing style.

I’ll show the whole world tomorrow that I am much better than him,” the Bulgarian told Sky Sports.

“I don’t hate him. I tell him three, four, five times that I respect him...

I respect that he takes this fight. “I feel amazing. I am now in paradise. I want to give the people a show because the people need a show because now is pandemic time and only movies not reality. Now we need reality and I show the people. Tomorrow evening, new world champion.”

Hyderabad hold ATK Mohun Bagan 1-1

Match in action between ATK Mohun Bagan and Hyderabad during the ISL-7 match on Friday.

PANAJI, DEC 11 (AGENCIES): ATK Mohun Bagan and Hyderabad played out a closely-contested 1-1 draw in the 2020-21 Indian Super League (ISL) match at the Fatorda Stadium on Sunday.

Both teams were evenly matched but Bagan had more shots on target and easier chances to score but Thangboi Singto's Roy Krishna continued to be a threat up front for Bagan as he has been all season and could have scored an early goal. In the seventh minute, he fired

Boateng urges Lionel Messi to sign for Napoli

NAPOLI, DEC 11 (AGENC I E S ) : Ke v i n - P r i n c e Boateng feels Lionel Messi should pay the ultimate tribute to his fellow Argentina great Diego Maradona by signing for Napoli.

Maradona passed away last month, and Messi has already paid his respects by removing his Barcelona shirt when scoring against Osasuna to reveal a Newell’s Old Boys jersey.

Newell’s was the team Messi came through at, and Maradona had a season at the club towards the tail-end of his career.

It was at Napoli where Maradona cemented his legendary status, with the 1986 World Cup winner guiding the club to two Serie A titles in 1987 and 1990.

Napoli have retired Maradona’s No.10 shirt, meaning Barca’s current occupier of that jersey would need to take on a different number, but Boateng feels it

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

is a move that Messi should make. "Messi's going to finish his contract at Barcelona, [but] how amazing would it be if he would just call Napoli and say 'I will come'?" Boateng told ESPN . "'They don't give out the No.10 shirt anymore, [but] I would love to honour Maradona's No.10 and I would love to come and play one year or two years at Naples, without thinking about money or nothing, just heart'."

Monza midfielder Boateng, who spent a spell on loan alongside Messi at Barcelona last year, has described the possibility of a move to Napoli as being like a movie script - but would love it to happen.

"It would be like a movie," Boateng said. "He'd have to go to practice by a f*cking helicopter because people would eat him alive.

They'd be so happy.

the ball from Prabir Das' pass straight at the keeper before testing Subrata Paul with a powerful header off Pritam Kotal's cross two minutes later.

Krishna remained the potential source for goals as the first half progressed.

He managed to get to the end of a lovely chipped ball from Edu Garcia midway through the half but sent his effort just wide.

A good move close to the half-hour mark nearly put Bagan in front. Glen Martins sprayed the ball to Krishna who in turn

found Manvir on the right flank. Prabir Das was at the end of Manvir's drilled low cross but couldn't get enough power on his shot towards goal.

Manvir Singh made the most of the first-team chance given to him by his coach and broke the deadlock after the restart.

He nicked the ball from the midfield following a Hyderabad goal-kick, dribbled into the box skipping past multiple challenges and slammed the ball home.

Hyderabad woke up

after conceding the opening goal and pressed for an equaliser. Joao Victor and Souvik Chakraborty were busy in the centre trying to move the ball forward and their efforts were rewarded in the 65th minute.

Souvik played Nikhil Poojary into the box who was brought down by Manvir. Victor dispatched the resultant spot-kick to bring the scores level.

Saturday’s Match Odisha Vs FC Goa Time: 7:30 PM

Rohit Sharma passes fitness Test, set to fly to Australia NEW DELHI, DEC 11 (IANS): Star India batsman Rohit Sharma is set to take part in the upcoming four-match Test series against Australia after passing the fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.

It has been learnt that Sharma, who had injured his hamstring during the Indian Premier League (IPL), cleared the fitness test on Friday and will be leaving for Australia over the weekend. However, an official statement on this regard is yet to come from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

According to a report in ESPNcricinfo, the 32year-old will take a charter flight from Mumbai to Dubai, from where he will fly to Sydney on December 13 and be available for selection for the last two

Rohit Sharma

Tests of the four-match series.

Upon reaching Sydney, Sharma has to undergo a mandatory quarantine of 14 days in a facility separate from the bio-secure bubble in which the Indian Test squad is currently in, the report further stated.

The BCCI had informed about the decision to add Sharma to the squad for the Australia Test series

after initially excluding him from the tour due to the hamstring injury.

“The BCCI Medical Team has been monitoring Rohit Sharma’s fitness and has briefed All-India Senior Selection Committee on the same. In consultation with Sharma, it has been decided to rest him for the ODIs and T20Is in Australia to regain full fitness and he has been included in India’s Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy,” the BCCI said in a release on November 9.

India captain Virat Kohli, who himself will return to India after the first Test in order to be his wife for the birth of their first child, had said that there had been no clarity on the injury of Sharma.

The first Test of the four-match series starts at the Adelaide Oval from December 17.

Cameron Green hit on the head Sociedad and Young Boys scrape into Europa League last 32 while bowling in warm-up game

L O N D O N / D U B L I N, DEC 11 (AGENCIES): Real Sociedad and Young Boys squeezed into the last 32 of the Europa League and were joined in the knockout phase by Napoli, Molde, Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Wolfsburg while Tottenham Hotspur secured top spot as group play concluded on Thursday.

Jose Mourinho’s Spurs side had already guaranteed progress but second-half goals by Carlos Vinicius and Giovanni Lo Celso earned a 2-0 win over Royal Antwerp as they leapfrogged the Belgians who had also qualified from Group J. W h i l e To t t e n h a m cruised it was a frantic night across the continent as others left it late to stay alive.

Real Sociedad’s Willian Jose snatched a stoppagetime goal to secure a 1-1 draw at Napoli as the highflying Liga side got through in second spot behind the Italians in Group F. They were in danger of heading out as they trailed to Piotr Zielinski’s 35thminute effort for section leaders Napoli but breathed a sigh of relief with Willian

Real Sociedad’s Willian Jose scores their first goal against Napoli during the Europa League match on December 10. (Reuters)

Jose’s late leveller.

AZ Alkmaar would have finished above Sociedad with a win at bottom club Rijeka but lost 2-1 as Ivan Tomecak scored for the Croatian hosts in added time to secure their only group win.

For Swiss club Young Boys it was even tighter as they beat visiting Romanians Cluj 2-1 in a dramatic Group A clash.

Cluj, who needed a win to leapfrog Young Boys, went ahead in the 84th minute through Gabriel Debeljuh.

But in an astonishing climax Jean-Pierre Nsame’s penalty levelled it in stoppage time after keeper Cristian Balgradean was red-carded before Nsame was himself sent off in the 95th.

A minute later Gianluca Gaudino slotted a Young Boys winner and Cluj ended with nine men as Damjan Dokovic was dismissed.

Young Boys finished runners-up behind alreadyqualified AS Roma who lost 3-1 at CSKA Sofia.

MOLDE ADVANCE Norwegians Molde

progressed as they drew 2-2 at Rapid Vienna who could have overtaken them. Captain Wolff Eikrem scored twice for Molde who finished second in Group B behind Arsenal.

In Group I Maccabi Tel-Aviv beat Sivasspol 1-0 with an Enric Saborit goal to grab runners-up spot, while in Group K Wolfsburg beat Feyenoord 1-0 to pip the Dutch club to second place.

The 24 sides through from the group phase join the eight third-placed finishers in the Champions

League in Monday’s draw, including Manchester United and Ajax Amsterdam.

Tottenham’s Mourinho, who won the UEFA Cup with Porto and Europa League at Manchester United, is clearly relishing the prospect of going all the way with the Premier League leaders.

Topping the group means Spurs will be seeded in the draw and avoid the big guns who have dropped out of the Champions League.

Dinamo Zagreb came within 13 minutes of becoming the first team to go through a Europa League or Champions League group stage without conceding a goal before CSKA Moscow struck a consolation in a 3-1 defeat. Zagreb topped Group K.

Arsenal ease past Dundalk to stay perfect

Arsenal maintained their perfect record in this season’s Europa League as goals from Eddie Nketiah, Mohamed Elneny, Joe Willock and Folarin Balogun sealed a 4-2 win at Dundalk in their final Group B match

on Thursday.

Arsenal, who scored 20 goals in the six group games, will discover their last-32 opponents in Monday’s draw in Nyon, but Arteta was focusing Sunday’s Premier League game against Burnley.

Arsenal are 15th in England’s top flight with 13 points from 11 games, three places above Burnley who are in the relegation zone.

“We need to start winning football matches immediately. We know that has to start on Sunday,” Spaniard Arteta said.

Leicester beat AEK Athens to win group

Brendan Rodgers says he “couldn’t ask for any more” after Leicester sealed top spot in their Europa League group with victory over AEK Athens.

Cengiz Under and Harvey Barnes scored in a game they needed to win to finish above nearest rivals Sporting Braga. Fourth in the Premier League table, three points behind leaders Tottenham, Leicester can now look forward to the knockout stage of the Europa League.

S y dne y, D ec 1 1 (IANS): Batting all-rounder Cameron Green was on Friday forced the leave the field after being struck in the head while bowling on the opening day of the three-day warm-up match between Australia 'A' and India 'A'.

In his second spell of the day-night tour game against India 'A' at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Green was hit when tailender Jasprit Bumrah smashed a fierce straight drive at the Australian who was unable to react in time.

The ball burst through the 21-year-old's hands and hit him on the right side of the head. Mohammed Siraj, who was at the non-striker's end, dropped his bat and immediately rushed to check on Green.

Green, who had scored a century in the first practice game at the Drummoyne Oval, sat on the pitch before being attended by members of the Australia A medical team.

He left the field for further assessment in the dressing room after being examined for a couple of minutes.

It's the second head blow suffered by an Australia 'A' player in as many games. During the drawn first practice game, righthanded opener Will Pucovski was hit on the helmet by a ferocious bouncer

by Kartik Tyagi and was diagnosed with mild concussion.

Green returned with figures of 1/20 in the 6.1 overs he bowled.

He scalped the wicket of Shubman Gill as the tourists -- minus captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara -- collapsed to 123/9 before Bumrah alongside Siraj stitched a 71-run partnership to take India 'A' to 194 all out. Bumrah remained unbeaten on 55 while Siraj contributed with 22.

The four-Test series between Australia and India is slated to start with a pink-ball fixture at the Adelaide Oval from December 17.

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