December 14, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 12

DIMAPUR, MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020 Pages 12 ` 5.00

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Farmer leaders to go on hunger strike To hold dharnas at all district Hqs across the country NEW DELHI, DEC 13 (PTI): The heads of all farmer unions protesting against the Centre’s new agri laws will observe a one-day hunger strike Monday, farmer leader Gurnam Singh Chaduni said here, as the agitating peasantry and the administration prepared for an escalation in the protest from December 14.

The hunger strike between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. is part of the farmers’ plan to intensify their agitation from Monday. Addressing a press conference at the Singhu border, Chaduni said the leaders will observe the hunger strike at their respective places. Also, dharnas will be staged at all district headquarters across the country and the farmers will submit a memorandum of demands addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The protest will go on as usual,” he told reporters.

Caduni said some small groups of farmers have ended their protest saying they

RBI announces 24X7 RTGS facility from today NEW DELHI, DEC 13 (AGENCIES): Reser ve Bank of India (RBI) announced the 24X7 Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), used for large value transactions, facility from December 14. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das announced that the RTGS facility would become operational 24X7 from 12:30 am tonight.

The RBI had also announced a slew of measures including enhancing the limit for contactless card transactions to Rs 5,000.

In December 2019, the National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) system was made available on a 24x7x365 basis.

Shaktikanta Das said, “RTGS facility becomes operational 24X7 from 12.30 a.m. Monday....” Currently, the RTGS transaction facility is available for customers from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on all working days of a week, except the second and fourth Saturdays of every month.

Das had earlier said that with 24X7 RTGS system, “it is proposed to reduce settlement and default risk in the system by facilitating settlement of AePS, IMPS, NETC, NFS, RuPay, UPI transactions on all days instead of five days earlier.”

Govt to soon hold next round of talks

Scientists develop smartphone-read saliva testing method for Covid-19 NEW YORK, DEC 13 (IANS): Scientists have developed a portable salivabased smartphone platform for rapid Covid-19 testing that they claim can provide results within 15 minutes without the resource-intensive laboratory tests.

The new technique detailed in the journal Science Advances pairs a fluorescence microscope readout device with a smartphone to determine viral load from a CRISPR/Cas12a assay.

The new test works as effectively as the well-established quantitative reversetranscriptase polymerase chain reaction method, the experiments in a small number of participants showed.

“We believe this smartphone platform, a similar future application, offers the potential to rapidly expand Covid-19 screening capacity, and potentially simplify the verification of contact tracing, to improve local containment and inform regional disease control efforts,” the authors wrote.

Most Covid-19 tests currently require swabbing the upper part of the throat behind the nose -- an uncom-

passe. There have been five rounds of talks between the Centre and representatives of 40 farmers’ unions so far and they have remained inconclusive.

The sixth round was cancelled after farmers’ leaders rejected the government’s draft proposal and declined to participate in the meeting. The government has made it clear that it is ready for discussion anytime. But the farmer unions have said they would come for talks only if the laws are repealed.

Nagaland COVID tally 11709

BJP dumps its ally BPF, picks up new one to rule BTC

SC to hear plea seeking relocation of protestors

COVID-19 STATUS AS ON december 13, 2020 District

AsymptomModatic Mild erate

ACTIVE CASES Symptomatic Critical-ICU Se- With- With On vere out Oxy- VentiOxygen gen lator 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Dimapur Kiphire Kohima Longleng Mokokchung Mon Peren Phek Tuensang

161 14 361 0 5 10 19 0 11

18 0 4 0 0 0 2 0 0

5 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wokha

7

0

0

0

0

0

0

Zunheboto Total

2 590

0 24

0 12

0 3

0 0

0 0

0 2

Death MiRecovunder Total Death gratered InvestiCases ed gation 6032 24 3215 9 116 579 473 44 226

41 1 21 0 1 2 0 0 1

3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

72 0 24 9 4 9 0 0 0

6337 39 3631 18 127 600 494 44 238

28

1

0

3

39

137 0 10883 68

0 3

3 142 124 11709

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

DIMAPUR, DEC 13 (NPN): Nagaland reported 33 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday-- 27 in Kohima and 6 in Dimapur, taking the tally to 11709 cases.

Further, the distribution across various categories include 4635 cases from the armed forces/police, 1820 returnees, 4695 traced contacts and 559 frontline workers.

India tally rises to 98.57L P T I a d d s : I n d i a ’s COVID-19 caseload mounted to 98,57,029 with 30,254 infections being reported in a day, while the death toll rose to 1,43,019 with 391 new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The number of people who have recuperated surged to 93,57,464.

Ahead of COVID vax, Centre issues new guidelines New Delhi, Dec 13 (Agencies): Ahead of COVID-19 vaccine distribution, Centre released the guidelines for rolling out the vaccine once it’s made available. As per the new guidelines, the number of people per session to be vaccinated may go up to 200 depending on the logistics, reports DNA. Moreover, Centre will let the state fix the days for vaccination.

“One session for 100 beneficiaries. While most of the frontline workers would be vaccinated at fixed session sites, vaccination of other high-risk populations may require outreach session sites, and mobile sites and teams,” the Health ministry stated. It also decided to use community halls and makeshift tents for the purpose of vaccination in the future. Around 1314 people will be vaccinated in an hour due to limitations caused by COVID-19.

student Rishabh Sharma, who has also sought directions to authorities to open the roads at Delhi’s borders, shift the protesters to the allotted place and provide COVID-19 guidelines on social distancing and use of masks at the protest site.

The petition claimed that the Delhi Police had, on November 27, allowed the protesters to hold a demonstration peacefully at the Nirankari ground in Burari here, but despite that, they blocked the borders.

GUWAHATI, Dec 13 (PTI): The BJP on Sunday virtually dumped one of its coalition partners in Assam, the BPF, and picked up a new ally-- United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) to gain majority and rule the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC).

Bodoland People’s Front (BPF), which has three ministers in the Sarbananda Sonowal-led coalition government in the state, has emerged as the single-largest party in the just concluded BTC polls, winning 17 seats in the 40-member body.

BPF president Hagrama Mohilary said his party repeatedly appealed to the BJP to follow the “coalition” norms and help it to form a “government” in the BTC, but the BJP ignored the pleas. The UPPL won 12 seats, the BJP nine, while the Congress and the Gana Suraksha Party (GSP), headed by Lok Sabha MP Naba Sarania, got one each.

Shortly after Union

Home Minister Amit Shah congratulated the UPPL for winning 12 seats and also termed the party an “ally” in his tweet, Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that UPPL chief Pramod Boro will be the new Chief Executive Member in the BTC.

Indicator

Sealed tubes with pre loaded stabilizing reagent

Cap & Mix

Add sample

Representational image

fortable process that requires medical professionals in full protective gear to collect samples in airborne infection isolation rooms before running RT-PCR tests.

However, recent studies have found that SARSCoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19, may be equally present in the nasopharynx and the saliva during early infection, suggesting salivabased Covid-19 tests could enable comparably reliable but simpler, safer testing.

To develop a widely ac-

NDA committed to serving people of NE, says Modi: With the BJP set to rule the Bodoland Territorial Council with its new ally UPPL, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the National Democratic Alliance is committed to serving the people

cessible platform for salivabased testing, Bo Ning from Tulane University School of Medicine in the US and colleagues built a prototype assay chip that uses the CRISPR/Cas12a enzyme to enhance an amplified viral RNA target’s signal within a saliva sample. They integrated the chip into a smartphone-based fluorescence microscope readout device, which captures and analyses images to determine whether the virus is present above a threshold concentration.

of the Northeast.

In a tweet, Modi said, “NDA is committed to serving the people of the Northeast. I congratulate our ally UPPL and @BJP4Assam for securing a majority in the Assam BTC election, and wish them the very best in fulfilling people’s aspirations...”

NCD president Ghokheto Chophy laid to rest

Funeral service of Ghokheto Chophy held at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School ground, Sunday. (NP)

Staff Reporter

K Y M C

international, Page 9

The government will soon call farmers’ leaders for the next round of talks to end the deadlock over the farm laws, Union minister of state for Agriculture, Kailash Choudhary said on Sunday as agitators decided to intensify their protest.

The meeting will be called soon. But the date has not been finalised, Chaudhary said. “We have full conBarricades placed to stop farmers during their protest, at fidence. In the next meeting, the issue will be resolved,” Singhu border in Delhi, Sunday. (PTI) he said and added that the are satisfied with the amend- leader Shiv Kumar Kakka government will find “some ments proposed by the gov- said. Another farmer leader, solution” to end the imernment in agri laws.

Rakesh Tikait, said if the “We want to clarify that government offers another they are not associated with proposal for talks, the ‘Kisan Supreme Court is schedus. They have been hand-in- Samyukt Morcha’ will deglove with the government, cide on it. He appealed to all uled to hear on December 16 they conspired to sabotage to maintain peace during the a plea seeking a direction to our protest. The government protest. Delhi chief minister authorities to immediately is hatching a conspiracy to Arvind Kejriwal said he remove protesting farmers at derail the ongoing farmers’ will also hold one-day fast several border points of Delprotest,” Chaduni claimed. on Monday in response to hi, saying commuters were He asked all farmers’ unions a call given by the farmers facing hardships due to road to follow “what is being and urged AAP volunteers blockades and the gatherings said by the Samyukt Kisan as well as the people of the might lead to an increase in COVID-19 cases.

Morcha only”. country to join in.

According to the apex “Our stand is clear, we Meanwhile, the Delhi want the three farm laws Police stepped up vigil on court website, a bench of repealed. We will fight till the national capital’s border Chief Justice S A Bobde and our last breath. There is no on Sunday as farmers gath- justices A S Bopanna and question of withdrawing or ered to block NH-8 it as part V Ramasubramanian will hear the plea filed by law leaving midway,” Farmer of their protest.

This is it!

“Sir, like delay of political solution, same is the case with the 4-lane work.”

Leaders to push Brexit trade talks

DIMAPUR, DEC 13 (NPN): People from different walks of life paid rich tributes to Naga Council Dimapur president, K. Ghokheto Chophy at the funeral service held here on Sunday at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School ground, organized by Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church (DSBC).

Late Ghokheto passed away in Delhi on December 11 after a prolonged illness and left behind his wife and two children. He was laid to rest at the New Naga cemetery, Zani village area Dimapur. As a mark of respect, business establishments in Dimapur also down shutters on Sunday.

Speaking at the funeral service, NCD vice president

(Adm) Etsungmomo Kikon expressed deep pain over the demise of his colleague and said it was darkest day not only for the council but also the citizens and various organizations of Dimapur.

Kikon described late Chophy as a man of principle who pursued his responsibilities with zeal and determination to achieve them.

As a social worker and true leader of masses, Kikon said that Chophy always sacrificed and stood for the common cause and welfare of the people in order to bring a change.

On behalf of the council, Kikon conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

Expressing grief and sorrow over the demise, DSBC deacon, Phukato Zhimo said that late Chophy was an active member of DSBC. The Sümi community in particular and Nagas in general have lost a kind hearted and a God fearing leader, he said, adding that death was inevitable to all of us.

In his speech, son of late Ghokheto, Akihito Chophy described his father as a courageous, bold and loving person. (Cont’d on p-8) K Y M C

2

Launching of KSHAMTA programme at KVK Phek

Farmers with KVK officials at the special programme on KSHAMTA held on December 9.

scientific application for sustainable agriculture. She also deliberated a lecture on importance of nutri-cereals for health and wellbeing.

Dr Debojyoti Borkotoky, ACTO (animal sc) presented on integrated farming system for remunerative agricultural practices.

In the scientist-farmers interaction, the guest of the programme, Thepusa Nakro highlighted about the ongoing government programmes and schemes in agriculture. He emphasised on “learn and grow”

SVEEP campaign conducted in Tuensang DIMAPUR: Awareness programme on SVEEP campaign in collaboration with Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) and district administration Tuensang was held at town hall on December 12.

A press release by the organisers stated that, DC Tuensang Kumar Ramnikant in his short speech said that, India was a democratic country and voting was a democratic right of every citizen which cannot be deprived.

He also said that one can be an agent of change by spreading such awareness message without breaking the chain so everyone could be reached to act responsibility in nation building process. ADC Tuensang, Ajit Kumar Verma said every citizen who has attained 18 years of age was the voter citizen and should take it as a responsibility and contribute in nation building. He also said that Beti Bachao Beti Padhao was very relevant looking into the lesser participation in

every field.

H P Gupta GT GHSS Thangjam as resource person of the campaign explained on the foundation of the SVEEP and its objectives in the Indian democratic set up. He also discussed on qualifying years of the young voters, specially the female votes emphasizing on 944 national voter ratios in adverse to female. He also said that electoral registration should be a collective effort so that no eligible citizen can be left out.

Brief highlight on Beti Bachao Beti Padhao was also addressed by district coordinator MSK, Naimkoi where he mentioned a brief history of the origin of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme and its importance and objectives.

Earlier, welcome address was given by AEO Tuensang Ren Mozhui and vote of thanks by EAC Tuensang Kevithitho Rose in the programme chaired by LDA Election deptt, Noktsula.

and utilise the technical expertise of the KVK Phek.

Nezulu Nyekha, executive director, CWWS Pfutsero informed the farmers on post harvest management of their produce and market linkage. Dr. T. Esther Longkumer, CTO (soil science), KVK Phek emphasised on importance of the use of organic inputs to enhance crop production in the district.

She also informed the gathering on the New Farm Bill Act 2020. Vote of thanks was delivered by Imsenaro Longchar, KVK Phek.

RNPC, WRSUN attack Ravi

DIMAPUR: Falling in line with other Naga frontal organisations, the Rengma Naga Peoples’ Council (RNPC) and the Western Rengma Students’ Union Nagaland (WRSUN) too has hit out at the Nagaland governor R.N. Ravi for his “divisive, insensitive and scornful” statements glorifying the infamous “16 point agreement/resolution” in his 58th Nagaland Statehood Day speech.

In an open letter to R.N. Ravi, the RNPC president Solomon Rengma and WRSUN president, Aga Rengma stated that the Nagas’ right to live as a people together under one administration and within one geographical boundary as a nation was undermined and betrayed the day Nagaland statehood was declared leaving out a significant majority of Naga people and their homelands outside the state boundary.

Therefore, Naga people never acknowledged the “Separation tactic” of the government of India and as a witness, the Naga national movement still continues with the same zeal that initially impelled by the earliest protagonist, the letter stated.

It therefore, reminded Ravi that he being an in-

K Y M C

terlocutor was supposed to understand that the ongoing Naga political talk between the government of India and the NSCN was about the Naga people and their inherent rights and was not confined to a state or few tribes, as he (Ravi) keenly try to portrait in his speech.

“You cannot confine the Naga political issue within a state of 16,000 Sq. Km, that’s not happening! Our Gods’ chosen leaders like AZ Phizo or Isak Chishi Swu wouldn’t have settled for anything less than integration and sovereignty and neither will any Naga patriot”, the signatories stated.

The signatories further termed Ravi’s assertion, that “Nagaland state is the best thing that happened to the Nagas” was nothing but fallacy. The signatories stated that being a governor of a state, “his concern and ideologies for the state may be justified but as an interlocutor for the Naga peace talk, you are duty bound to usher in peace and understanding among different sections of the Naga people whom your government segregated and find a peaceful, honourable and inclusive solution to this long pending Naga issue”.

District review meeting held in Peren

YSU observe 53rd general conference at Yikhum village

PRO to chief minister, R. N. Lotha speaking as special guest at the YSU conference on December 12.

DIMAPUR: Yikhum Students’ Union (YSU) held its 53rd general conference at village cultural hall on December 12, with PRO to chief minister of Nagaland, R. N. Lotha as special guest.

A press release by YSU media cell stated that, exhorting the students’ community, the special guest said that to be born in a particular family and circumstances was not a choice but to become someone in life was a choice.

Therefore, he urged them to put God first in everything

that they do and to acquire true sense of education with high moral character and not just degrees.

While challenging them to dream with goals in life and not to get confused between movement and progress, he emphasised on the responsible use of internet and modern technologies. He also encouraged for self employment oriented education as all educated cannot get government jobs.

D PA , N S D M A Wokha, A. Mercy Kithan spoke on the conference

theme, “Learn the past, live the present, plan the future”. Greetings from the ERSU and the village council were given by the president and chairman respectively. President YSU and his colleagues thanked the participants and expressed gratitude to the special guest for his generous contribution.

The conference was attended by the village council members, church elders, officials from Englan Range Students’ Union and students from village and outside.

news in Brief NPGN/NNC (N/A) informs: NPGN/NNC (N/A) under the leadership of president T. Ovung has informed all the HoDs, businessmen etc not to entertain anybody other than Thomas Kikon finance kilonser in the name of its government in and around Kohima and Dimapur town. NPGN/NNC (N/A) through its MIP informed that defaulters would be doing so at their own risks.

Corrigendum: Apropos the news published under the headline, “CAGBF 31st general session in Tsg”, the word Kiphire should be read as Kephore village under Chessore block of Shamator sub-division, Tuensang district and not as published.

CMO staff presenting a special number at the programme held on December 5 at Peren.

DIMAPUR: Chief medical office (CMO), Peren under the chairmanship of Dr. Lanuakum, deputy CMO Peren held it’s district review meeting at CMO office conference hall, New Peren on December 5.

A press release by CMO office, district media officer Pezanguno Celine Secü stated that, Dr. Lanuakum highlighted about AB-PMJAY health scheme status in the district and stated that the e-card issue was only 15%; expected card to be issued was 76490 whereas the total e-card

issued was only 8628. He requested the health workers to cooperate with the village councils to collect the required documents of the villagers for the enrolment of the e-card and to submit to the staff in the office and try to generate the e-card.

He also reminded and encouraged the health workers about the importance of institutional deliveries and early registration of pregnancy and ANC in the district.

DPM Elizabeth gave a brief note on the format for the survey for COVID-19

Condolence messages by various organisations DIMAPUR: Various organisations and individuals have condoled the demise of late K. Ghokheto Chophy, who passed away in New Delhi on December 11, 2020.

NPP Nagaland state: National People’s Party (NPP) Nagaland state in a condolence note by president Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema stated that Naga people in general and the citizens of Dimapur have lost a resolute and principled leader, who will always be remembered by generations to come as a man of upright nature, who not only led the Naga Council Dimapur towards its goals and objectives but also guided the Naga society with deep wisdom and rare acumen. While his demise has left a void which will be hard to fill in days to come, the entire rank and file of NPP Nagaland state pay deepest respect and homage to the departed soul.

It also conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and that the great soul rest in eternal peace.

SK: Sümi Küküpütsa (SK) board of directors, editor and staff in a condolence note by editor Honikali Lohe described late Ghokheto as a very down-toearth, dynamic leader of integrity and who had worked tirelessly for the upliftment of Naga society.

While the void created by his demise would be deeply felt and difficult to fill in, the SK conveyed

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

condolences and prayers to the bereaved family and that the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

TUD: Tenyimi Union Dimapur (TUD) president Hilo Rengma and joint secretary, Hepuni John stated that late Chophy gave his utmost for the living conditions of Dimapurians in particular and his sacrifices and contributions impacted the conditions of life and will continue to do so in the future. While a big void has been created, the TUD conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and pray that the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

SNUNS: Souther n Nagas Union of Nagaland State (SNUNS) in a condolence note stated that the demise of late Chophy as a vibrant leader of immense competence was a huge loss for the family, people of Dimapur and for all the Nagas.

SNUNS conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and pray that the departed soul rest in peace.

NMDA: Nagaland Medical Dealers Association (NMDA) in a condolence note, while describing late Ghophy as an extraordinary man also said that many will mourn at his passing away as his life was of selfless service for the people, love, compassion and excellence. Expressing that Nagas and people of Nagaland have lost a dedicated leader, the

NMDA conveyed condolences to the bereaved family.

CNSA: Central Nagaland Students’ Association (CNSA) stated that late Chophy was an upright person and selfless leader and his demise was a matter of great loss not only for the people of Dimapur but has created a vacuum in Naga society. CNSA conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved family at this moment of grief and pray that God will give them solace.

T. L. Merry: T. L. Merry in a condolence note described late Chophy as a dynamic, hardworking young man with simple and humble personality, who had given his best services and contributions, working incessantly towards the uplift and safeguard of the common interest and socioeconomic life and privileges of the citizens of Dimapur. Merry further added that late Ghokheto was an outstanding social worker who, for decades served the Naga Council Dimapur as councillor and NCD executive, representing the Sumi fraternity of Dimapur, and was the president, Naga Council Dimapur at the time of his demise. Merry conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and pray that God give them courage and strength to bear the grievous loss, and may the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

vaccines which was to be conducted at each household in all the villages.

A short advent Christmas programme was also held chaired by Kengimngauke, STS NTEP, invocation by Ramchiang Newmai, pharmacist CMO and Christmas message by Dr. Imnuk, epidemiologist and Visono Thaprii, CHO Samzuiram.

Meeting was attended by the district programme officers, nurses, pharmacist, DAPCU staff, district and The Industrial Estate Colony Council (IECC) conducted a mass social work on December block programme manage- 12, as well as filling up of potholes along the National highway 36, within the jurisdiction ment unit staff NHM. of the colony. (IECC chairman Arangba Pongen and secretary Moa Jamir)

NSCN (K) cadre apprehended in Dimapur

OFFICE OF THE KUKI UNION DIMAPUR NAGALAND CONDOLENCE MESSAGE

The Kuki Union Dimapur express our deepest and sincere condolence to the bereaved family members of Late K. Ghokheto Chopy, President, Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) who passed away on 11th Dec. 2020.

His unwavering dedication and devotion towards the welfare of the people will remain a testament. May his soul rest in peace and we pray to the Almighty God that the bereaved family's cherished memories with him brings them comfort and peace.

Sd/Janglal Haokip Paotinmang Limsong Chairman Secretary Kuki Union Dimapur Kuki Union Dimapur

DP-5536

DIMAPUR: Knowledge systems and homestead agriculture management in tribal areas (KSHAMTA), special programmes to be initiated through the KVK was launched at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Phek on December 9.

A press release by KVK Phek stated that, in the technical session, Dr Hannah K Asangla informed the participants about concept and objectives of the programme. She elaborated on the indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) and their

state

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The apprehended person along with the recovered items.

DIMAPUR: Assam Rifles of Spear Corps in a joint operation with representative of Police apprehended an armed cadre of NSCN (K) near Thilixu, Dimapur on December 11.

According to PRO (Defence), based on specific input, troops of Assam Rifles along with Police launched an

operation and apprehended one cadre of NSCN (K) and recovered one AK-47 with two magazines, one 303 Rifle and 61 live rounds of 303 Rifle.

The apprehended person along with the recovered items has been handed over to Diphupar Police Station, for further investigation.

Born: 22/04/1926 – Died: 04/12/2020 We, the bereaved family members, would like to profoundly express our heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation to each and every individual who stood by us and supported us in every possible ways at the sad demise of our beloved Late TALIYANGBA IMCHEN (Mangmetong) on 04/12/2020.

We deeply regret our inability to acknowledge each one of you individually but it is our sincere prayer that the Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

From Loving Wife, Children, Grandchildren and Relatives.

MKC-287 K Y M C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is it Rahul Gandhi’s fault that Congress is on downslide today?

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

A B C

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

Upgraded RDC building inaugurated at IMDH

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

A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

49% 43% 8%

Next poll

Q: Is t h e 4 - l a n e ro a d

from Dimapur to Kohima delayed due to NHIDCL?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST December 14

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sun

27 15

Hazy sun

23 10

Guwahati Hazy sun

25 14

Hazy sun

24 9

Aizawl Imphal

Itanagar Occasional rain and drizzle

22 13

Shillong

Abundant sunshine

18 6

Kohima

Hazy sun

21 8

Dimapur Hazy sunshine Mkg

Hazy sun

Tuensang Sunny and cooler Wokha

Hazy sun

Zunheboto Mostly sunny

25 13 22 10 17 6 20 11 20 9

Dr. Vizolie Z Soukhrie speaking at the inaugural programme of upgradation of RDC, IMDH Mokokchung on December 11.

DIMAPUR: Principal director of DoH&FW, Dr. Vizolie Z Soukhrie undertook a two-day district tour to inaugurate the upgraded building for Regional Diagnostic Centre (RDC) at IMDH, Mokokchung on December 11.

A press release by CMO office Mokokchung stated that, the sub-centres at Moayimti, Medemyim and Tsürang Valley were inaugurated along with laying of foundation stone at Longnak for PHC by CMO Mokokchung Dr. R. Chubala, MS, IMDH Dr. Medemmayang, joint director DoH&FW Dr.

3

State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

Z. Khesheto Zhimo and additional director Dr. Talitemsula, respectively on December 12.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vizolie Z Soukhrie urged the health workers for continual efforts to provide better health care for the people. District review meeting was held at IMDH along with the inauguration of RDC. Certain key agendas were discussed in regard to providing better health care, pandemic management as well as requirements/envisioning to boost health centres across the district.

During the inaugura-

tion of sub-centres, the principal director encouraged community support and involvement and urged the community to fill in the gap that may arise in the management of the health centre.

DGP Nagaland, T. John Longkumer, who was present during the inaugural function of Tsürang Valley sub-centre appreciated the presence of officials from directorate of Health & Family Welfare during the inauguration. He further assured support/assistance on his behalf as well as of the community.

Cash for trash scheme launched in Kiphire DIMAPUR: Deputy commissioner Kiphire, Ajit Kumar Ranjan inaugurated the Kiphire Town Council’s (KTC) bailing machine unit and commissioned a new dumper and bolero pick-up on December 12 at old NST Kiphire.

According to DIPR report, in his inaugural address, the DC emphasised that the bailing unit was for the benefit of the public and encouraged them to make optimal use of the facility. He also requested the civil and church leaders alike to help generate awareness regarding segregation of waste at the household level itself and safe disposal of wastes. Dedicatory prayer was offered by president USBLA pastor Alison, who also lauded the efforts of the KTC and district administration. He reiterated that it was indeed a step towards not only cleaner environment but has scope of local job generation and assured complete cooperation towards these efforts.

While the single use of plastic ban was in place, the safe disposal of other forms of plastic was a point of concern. KTC has therefore launched the “Cash for trash scheme” where the public have been encouraged to sell their plastics every Saturday from 9 a.m to 2 p.m at Old NST Kiphire.

Nikhekhu village gate inaugurated

Jacob Zhimomi along with village leaders and others at the inauguration of the village gate on December 12.

DIMAPUR: Minister of PHED, Jacob Zhimomi inaugurated the “Aphu Khagho” (village gate) of Nikhekhu village in Western Sümi area on December 12.

A press release by the organisers stated that, Jacob in his speech had reminded the gathering about how hard the pioneers had toiled to estab-

lish the village. Paying tribute to the elders, Jacob called upon the people to honour the elders. Achieving 100 years was a sign of maturity and one should live accordingly, he added.

Pronouncing his blessings, Jacob further wished more success for the village.

Mention may be made that Nikhekhu village was founded by late Nikhehu

Zhimomi Ato Kukau in 1920 after British permit was issued by Dr. J.H Hutton CIE-I.C.S 19181935. Nikhekhu village gate was donated by the children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and in-laws of late Khukihe GhunakhaYeputhomi in commemoration of 100 years of Nikhekhu village.

CBCMHK felicitates inducted IAS officers

The two newly inducted IAS officers along with their wives and CBCMHK church leaders on December 13.

DIMAPUR: Chakhesang Baptist Church Ministers’ Hill Kohima (CBCMHK) coinciding with its annual thanksgiving programme also felicitated two officers,

namely Neposo Theluo and Wezope Kenye, recently inducted into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) from state civil service of Nagaland on

December 13.

A press release by CBCMHK media and publicity committee stated that, the two officers had been appointed by the president

of India along with five others from the state on December 2, becoming the first two IAS officers among the Chakhesang community.

Senior pastor of CBCMHK, Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao said that an IAS officer among the community was a “long felt need” and their induction was a proof that God had answered the prayers of the people.

He added that their achievement was God signalling the Chakhesang as a tribe, to love and accommodate one another even more.

Head deacon of CBCMHK, Rhücho Tureng said that the church have been praying to God to grant an IAS officer in the community, which was answered. He encouraged

them to continue to work for the welfare of the people in coming days.

Thuluo in his short address, said that as a person coming from humble background, he never imagined to become an IAS officer someday. He added that it all happened because of the love of God and re-affirmed his best to serve the people in the days to come.

Kenye also expressed gratitude to God for his achievement and added that God has been so kind to him. Kenye hoped that more youth in the community would be able to come out as IAS officers through direct recruitment in future.

The church presented the two officers and their wives with gifts and prayed for them.

Class apart 1986-1995 celebrated its 25th year of leaving high school at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School (DBHSS) auditorium on December 12. Seen in the picture are the alumni’s along with the principal of DBHSS, Fr. Stephen Chazhisseril sdb, rector DBHSS, Fr. C. T. Varghese, Fr. Dr. Peter Salew, SDB, DBHSS and teachers.

NNF Mon unit consolidated programme

DIMAPUR: Nagaland NGO’s Forum (NNF) Mon unit organised consolidated programme with district administration, civil society organisations, churches and other NGOs of Mon district on December 12, graced by DC Mon, Thavaseelan K. A press release by NNF Mon unit stated that, NNF Mon unit president Hamkai Arolim in his keynote address shared about the aims and objective of the NNF Mon unit. He requested every

NGO of Mon district to unite for the upliftment and welfare of people in general.

President also handed memorandum to DC, where he requested the DC to take necessary action.

DC thanked NNF Mon unit for coming up with the aim to fill the gap between government and the public. He also requested the NGOs, CSO, churches and other civil societies to work unitedly for the betterment of society, particularly of Mon district.

KLC advent Christmas with children of EGCH

Kezhokhoto Savi with the children of Eden Gardens Children Home Khuzama on December 11.

DIMAPUR: Kohima Law College (KLC) celebrated advent Christmas with the children of Eden Gardens Children Home (EGCH) Khuzama at Eden Gardens play ground on December 11.

A press release by KLC media cell stated that, asst. professor Kezhokhoto Savi as speaker said that the true meaning of Christmas was love.

Savi also cited the various successful stories of children/ orphanage home in the country, where children from very poor background rose up to hold highest rank/post in their country, including the prime minister of England, Lloyd George in 1920.

Encouraging the children that they were to put their trust in God and not to go astray but to walk with Jesus, Savi emphasised that every child in the home must cultivate discipline and good moral character to become a great man/woman in future. In this regard, he urged the children K Y M C

to have the fear of the Lord as it was very important. Savi who is also a social activist made an appeal to the elite society to do “goodness” in this season, particularly to the “needy” as many families and homes were facing problems in this pandemic.

It must be noted that, teaching and non-teaching staff of KLC conducts prayer meeting on every first day of the month with free will offering and with this collection the college provided for the basic needs of the home.

KLC also appealed to the state government, particularly the concerned department dealing with rice and other food items under the National Food Security Act to be more fair and honest to the weaker sections and homes.

Earlier, programme was led by asst. professor Soni, invocation by asst. professor Moasenla and the administrator of KLC Limaakum exhorted the children. Fr. Raymond thanked the KLC. K Y M C

4

Manipur climate activist bats for farmers in Delhi

northeast

COVID-19 death toll mounts in Meghalaya

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

HNLC claims responsibility for IED blast in Meghalaya

biggest victims of climate change. Their crops are being destroyed by various natural disasters and phenomena like frequent floods, droughts, extreme weather events, and so on. She further added that thousands of farmers die every year.

The leaders the country chose should listen to the problems of the farmers.

The permanent solution needs to be brought out to solve the ongoing crisis of the farmers.

This is not the first time that Kangujam has protested. She has been regularly protesting outside the Parliament House in New Delhi, demanding compulsory climate education in schools and also, stricter laws to fight against climate change.

Shillong, Dec 13: Three more COVID-19 related deaths in Meghalaya mounted the casualty count due to the pandemic to 128, while 123 fresh cases of infection took the active caseload to 730 in Meghalaya on Sunday.

The three new casualties were reported from East Khasi Hills, which is the most affected district with 446 active cases in the State, followed by West Jaintia Hills with 120 active cases and West Garo Hills with 72 active cases, health officials said.

Of the fresh cases of COVID-19 infection detected as on Sunday, Director of Health Services (MI), Dr. Aman War said 76 were reported from East Khasi Hills district, 42 in West Jaintia Hills district, two in West Garo Hills district and one each in South Garo Hills district, South West Garo Hills district and West Khasi Hills district.

The senior medical official informed that 31 recoveries were also recorded as on Sunday, taking the number of persons who have recovered from the viral infection in the State to 12,008 as per the latest count.

So far, Meghalaya has registered 12,866 Covid-19 cases, including 128 fatalities, 730 active cases and

12,008 recoveries.

Meanwhile, night curfew has been further extended in the State from December 14 to 20 next from 11 pm to 5 am each day, as part of the mitigation measures to check the spread of COVID-19.

As per an official notification, all persons entering Meghalaya will have to mandatorily register for testing http://meghalayaonline.gov.in/covid/testing.htm and strictly follow the testing and quarantine protocols.

On the other hand, with the onset of the festive season of Christmas and New Year, there is hope among the people in general that the times to come would be better compared to this agonizing year, even as the public have been largely adhering to all the basic standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety norms issued by the government.

“We hope for the situation to get better, provided the people keep following all the safety norms with all sincerity,” says a senior physician, even as he points out that there are “enormous efforts” on part of the health authorities across the globe to come out with a lasting solution as far as checking the spread of the virus is concerned, that includes effective vaccination and a definite course of treatment.

the result of the refusal of the owner of the cement factory to pay a tax put forth by the organisation.

Any factory or non-tribal traders have to pay tax to the HNLC. Those who refuse will meet the same fate like Star Cement.”

There are 12 cement plants in East Jaiñtia Hills district.

Nongtraw alleged that the existence of factories from outside did not bring any benefit to the people.

“Even coal being produced in the state they did not buy. They instead buy coal from outside the state. Even if they want to buy coal, they suppress the price. They also employed people brought from outside, whereas locals have to look for jobs,” he said.

“The HNLC took extreme steps this time because the police department from time to time underestimated us. From now onwards, if people get killed or injured, the police department will take the responsibility. The style of working of the HNLC now has changed and it is no longer like in the past 10 or 15 years. There are places that we planned to further blast. Even if the government or police department act tough, they would not be able to stop us. If they want to challenge, let them challenge with the HNLC but not with the public or

organisations which possess no arms,” Nongtraw stated.

Palecha said, the explosive material used in Saturday’s blast is similar to the explosive material used in last month’s blast.

“It’s the same kind of material used as in the last blast,” he added.

Earlier this month, the district police had seized 1525 kg of explosives (gelatin sticks, live detonators and rools of cordtex fuse) were seized from a storehouse and a vehicle. Six persons were arrested for smuggling the explosive out of the district.

“A request has been sent to the Deputy Commissioner of the district to set up a committee to examine the stock of the license holders who procure such explosives for mining purposes,” the district police official said.

“We would be examining the stock and the registers of the license holders to find out the leakage. We have also asked for the list of such license holders so that we can investigate the leakage,” he said.

Palecha said the police would take strict action against those who are responsible for the blast and also the leakage of such explosives in the open market.

BTC poll results show people’s faith in Modi’s leadership: Nadda

Assam approves shutting of govt-run madrassas, tols

Normalcy returns in remote Arunachal town after violence over voting rights

11 new COVID-19 cases in Mizoram

Licypriya Kangujam with farmers in Singhu border.

New Delhi, dec 12 (agencies): A nine-yearold climate change activist, Licypriya Kangujam is a brave child who has come out to support the protesting farmers at the Singhu border, Delhi, reports The Sentinel Assam. The farmers have been protesting against the Centre’s farm laws since the last month.

The young activist assured the farmers at the border that the climate change activists around the world are with them. Kangujam has posted videos and photos of her with the farmers at the Singhu border.

A video was posted by Licypriya on the microblogging site, Twitter. She captioned the video: “Hope my voice will reach all over the world. No farmers, No food.

No justice, No rest.”

Kangujam along with the farmers were seen shouting the slogans: “No Justice, No Rest” and “No farmers, No Food.”

In another tweet on Twitter, Kangujam wrote: “Met with children who are spending last 14 days in this cold freezing temperature with their parents and grandparents at farmers’ protest site in the middle of the highway at Singhu Border.” She shared a photo of hers and the families of farmers in the tweet.

She shared a photo of hers and the families of farmers in the tweet.

Kangujam has requested the farmers to stop burning the straw stubble that remains after grains. She said that farmers are the

J P Nadda New Delhi, Dec 13 (PTI): BJP president J P Nadda asserted on Sunday that the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) poll results show people’s faith in the leadership and policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The results of the 40member Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) poll have led to a hung

House with the ruling Bodo Peoples’ Front (BPF) emerging as the single largest party winning 17 seats, election officials said on Sunday.

“Congratulations to NDA partner UPPL and Assam CM @sarbanandsonwal, State President @ ranjeetkrdas, senior min @ himantabiswa & @bjp4assam for securing clear

majority in Assam BTC election. The result shows the faith of people in leadership and policies of Hon PM @narendramodi Ji,” Nadda said in a tweet.

Other top party leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, also hailed the NDA’s performance in the polls and described them as people’s faith in Modi’s leadership.

The United Peoples’ Party Liberal (UPPL) won 12 seats, the BJP nine, while the Congress and the Gana Suraksha Party (GSP) bagged one seat each.

The BJP and the UPPL, which together have won a majority of seats, did not announce any formal alliance but both have indicated of a possible post-poll pact incase of a hung Council.

Correspondent

Guwahati, Dec 13 (PTI): The Assam cabinet on Sunday approved a proposal to close down all government-run madrassas and Sanskrit tols (schools), and a bill in this regard will be tabled during the upcoming winter session of the state Assembly, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary said. “Existing laws related to madrassas and Sanskrit tols will be repealed. A bill will be introduced in the next session of the Assembly,” Patowary said. The winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly will begin from December 28.

There are 610 state-run madrassas across Assam and the government has been spending Rs 260 crore annually for these institutes, Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had said earlier.

Itanagar, Dec 13 (PTI): Normalcy returned to the remote Arunachal Pradesh town of Vijoynagar, which saw violent protests with several government offices burnt over the voting rights of former Assam Rifles personnel in the panchayat polls, officials said on Sunday.

Twenty-four persons were arrested in connection with Friday’s arson and rioting that rocked the sensitive town, which is surrounded

by Myanmar on three sides, a senior police officer said.

Security has been tightened in the area, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Kime Kaming told PTI after returning from Vijoynagar, which is yet to be connected by roads. Paramilitary forces along with the police have been deployed in the town to ensure peace, he said, adding that vandalism will

Correspondent

Shillong, Dec 13: The outlawed Hynñiewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has claimed responsibility for an IED blast at Star Cement factory in East Jaiñtia Hills district in which one worker was injured and two rooms were partially damaged on Saturday night.

Following the claim made by the outlawed outfit on Sunday, police have launched an investigation into the matter even as a bomb disposal and dog squad has been engaged in the probe.

“A detailed report would be submitted by the Forensic team after the investigation,” Superintendent of Police, East Jaintia Hills District, Deepak Kumar Palecha said.

A similar explosion had occurred last month at Soo Kilo market in the district in which a shop was damaged. The outlawed HNLC had also claimed responsibility for the IED blast.

In an e-mailed statement issued to the media on Sunday, HNLC General Secretary Saiñkupar Nongtraw said, “The HNLC once again is responsible for the blast of an IED bomb (attached with a watch) in the staff quarter of Star Cement. The reason leading to the blast was

not be tolerated under any circumstances. Vijoynagar, in the state’s Changlang district, saw widespread rioting as a mob of 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, officials said.

The civil helipad was also partially damaged by the mob. A police team led by Inspector General (law and order) Chukhu Apa raided Hozulu village, around 7 km from Vijoynagar, and made the arrests on Sunday afternoon, an official said.

Three muzzle-loading guns and a .22 airgun were also seized.

Five women, suspected to be involved in the violence, were identified and interrogated, he said. “They

have been asked to be present at the Vijoynagar police station on Monday,” Apa told PTI. Five cases of arson and rioting have been registered in connection with the incident.

“All the 24 persons arrested are kept in the lock-up of the Vijoynagar police station for now. It lacks adequate space and so they would be shifted to Miao soon,” he said. Exemployees of the Assam Rifles have been living in the town since the early ‘60s. They originally hailed from outside the state but form the majority of the local population now, official sources said. The protesters demanded the cancellation of the right of these former Assam Rifles personnel living in the area to take part in panchayat elections and their immediate deportation, among others.

Aizawl, Dec 13 (PTI): Eleven more people, including four security personnel, have tested positive for COVID-19 in Mizoram, pushing the tally to 4,035, an official said on Sunday.

Of the 11 fresh cases, five were reported from Aizawl district, three from Serchhip, two from Lawngtlai and one case from Lunglei district, he said.

Two army personnel, who have returned to Mizoram on vacation and two Border Security Force (BSF) jawans were among the newly infected people, he said.

Only one patient has developed symptoms of COVID-19, while the rest 10 patients were asymptomatic, he said. The state now has 192 active cases, while 3,836 people have recovered from the virus. The COVID-19 recovery rate in Mizoram is 95 per cent and the infection rate is 2.46 per cent.

Manipur health authority stops MeECL employees threaten Border roads developed in areas thermal screening at Mao, Jiri gates agitation if salary not cleared along China border, says Khandu Correspondent IMPHAL, Dec 13: Manipur health department announced that there will be no more thermal screening to detect corona virus among truckers and commuters entering Manipur through Mao gate (bordering Nagaland) and Jiribam gate (bordering Assam).

The thermal screening centres to check inter-state truckers and commuters at check posts at Mao gate and Jiribam gate were removed by an order of the state health department passed on Saturday.

An official source said on Sunday that the staff members of the health department deputed in these two entry points were removed and utilised in other COVID-19 related activities of the department.

Hence, no screening truckers and commuters from Saturday on ward, the source said. The reason was also not disclosed in the order issued by the health director.

Even as the screening in these two points was suspended, thermal detec-

tors installed at the Imphal Bir Tikendrajit International Airport continued and will continue further, the official source added.

Manipur started screening at all the five entry points of the state including IndoMyanmar border gates since the first week of January this year as precautionary measures to avoid the spread of the virus.

Screening was done at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal, Mao Gate in Senapati, Behiang in Churachandpur, Moreh in Tengnoupal and Jiri Gate at Jiribam district.

The screening at the Indo-Myanmar entry points were suspended following shielding of the international borders by an order of the state government in March.

Since the start of the screening, a total of 5,00,969 people were screened. Of this, a maximum number of people were screened at the two now defunct screening centres at Mao Gate and Jiribam Gate.

Until the screening stopped, a total of 1,68,578 people were screened at

Mao Gate and 60,335 at Jiribam Gate, according to official data of the state health department.

The screened people included those who were forced back in their native state owing the nationwide lockdown to check the spread of COVID-19.

On the other hand, the overload COVID-19 caseload of the state rose to 27,155 as 119 more persons were found to be positive for the contagious virus during testing of 2,671 samples over the past 24 hours (till December 13, 4 pm).

23,759 cases were recoveries and 3,074 active cases as shown in the daily COVID-19 status report of the state health department.

There was no report of death due to COVID-19 related illness over the last 24 hours. This is the second time in less than a week that no death was reported.

E ve n a s t h e f i r s t COVID-19 death in Manipur was reported on July 29 last, the state recorded one or more persons due to the viral infection almost daily since September.

Correspondent

SHILLONG, DEC THE 13: Employees of the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) under the banner of Coordination Committee of Registered MeECL (Employee) Associations and Unions (CCORMAU) have threatened to launch a series of action if their pending salaries for October and November, 2020 are not cleared by the authorities

by December 14 next.

The CCORMAU asserted that if salary is not disbursed by December 14, they would go for a ‘pen-down strike the next day and on December 16 and 17 the members of the Executive Committee of CCORMAU and other willing employees will observe a hunger strike.

“On the December 21, officers and staff of MeECL shall abstain from attending to maintenance works and complaints from 10 AM to 4.30 PM except for emergency services like health and security. If the salary of December 2020 is not received by Janu-

ary 10, 2021, there shall be mass casual leave by non-factory workers,” the CCORMAU said.

The MeECL employees will resort to Movement of Non-Cooperation with Management commencing from January 18 if no action is taken based on their memorandum to the authorities.

“If Management and Government remain adamant and there is no positive outcome, the employees shall be compelled to resort to total shutdown on January 22, 2021,” the employees resolved.

T h e C C O R M AU also resolved that since the MoU signed by MePDCL with the Byrnihat Industries Association for special tariff is “detrimental to the financial health of the organization”, the Management should immediately terminate the MoU in accordance with the exit clause provided therein, adding that the employees strongly oppose the moves of the Government to hand over MeECL to private parties in any form

ITANAGAR, DEC 13 (AGENCIES): The Central and the State governments are making efforts for the development of border roads and encouraging human settlement in the border areas to counter any threat from the Chinese reports The Sentinel Assam. This was stated by State Chief Minister Pema Khandu in reply to a query related to the report of China’s construction of three villages near the Bumla Pass of Arunachal Pradesh, State Chief Minister Khandu stated that the report is true, but the Chinese are constructing villages within their territory and not in Indian Territory.

“The construction of villages by China is on their part of land and there is no encroachment of our land.

We also know the construction as well as the Indian government is well aware of it,” he said, adding that China wants expansion of their territory.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu said this while interacting with the media after kicking off the BJP party election campaign for Pancahayti Raj and Munici-

pal election amidst hundreds of BJP supporters and party leaders at A-sector, Naharlagun here on Thursday.

The campaign was attended by Home Minister Bamang Felix, State BJP president Biyuram Waghe, BJP general secretary Zignu Nacmhoom along with the party candidates and BJP office bearers. Addressing the campaign, Khandu said that the BJP in the State has made historic moves by winning five seats unopposed out of the 20 municipalities in Itanagar. He also said that the party has made historic remarks by winning a large number of rural body elections ‘unopposed’ in the State.

“I thank the people of State for their faith in the BJP by ensuring the victories of 96 Zilla Parishad Member (ZPM) unopposed out of 240 Zilla Parishad Constituency (ZPC); 5,463 Gram Panchayat Members (GPM) unopposed out of around 8,000 gram panchayat constituencies, and five Corporators of the total 20 municipal wards unopposed,” he said.

He added that the Municipal election is very

sensitive for the people as it is the base for the ‘Smart City’ project. Khandu also assured that if the BJP wins the municipal elections with majority, he will decentralize the power & functions of Corporators in the coming Budget session. “The State government has provided 13 power & functions to a Corporator out of the 20,” he said, adding that the rest seven will also be provided if the BJP gets the majority.

Khandu also said that the people of the State have undying faith in the party.

This is the reason BJP has been declared unopposed in the rural as well as urban local body election. On the sideline of the election campaign, when questioned the reason behind the recent visit by RSS Chief Mohan Bhagawat in the State, Khandu said that it was a courtesy visit and is nowhere linked with the Tawang-church issue.

“As the chief of RSS, he was called on to the office. People should not misunderstand that his visit was related to any religious issue pertaining to the Tawang church or others,” he added.

5

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

positive Haryana Health Min Hundreds of women join farmers’ agitation COVID Anil Vij shifted to Rohtak hospital

New Delhi, Dec 11 (PTI): They have long juggled the demands of field and family, making sure both are tended to, and now hundreds of women from Haryana and Punjab have added another dimension to their busy lives – the protest grounds at the various gateways into Delhi.

As their husbands, sons and brothers leave home to demand a rollback of the Centre’s new agri laws, many women are joining them too, making the trip from village towards the national capital even if for only a few days at a time.

For these women, who describe themselves as homemakers, farmworkers and protesters all rolled into one, any suggestion that farmers are about being alpha males because it requires physical labour is met with scorn.

“The profession of farming is not defined by gender. Our fields don’t produce crops differently if tended by women and men.

Many male farmers are here protesting. Why should we sit at home?” asked 53-year-

Farmers gather in large numbers during their protest against the new farm laws, at Singhu border in New Delhi, Sunday. (PTI)

old Mandeep Kaur, a farmer from Ludhiana who refuses to be stereotyped into any one role.

Mandeep took a bus to the Singhu border, a major protest site of the farmers’ agitation that has been going for more than two weeks, spent a night and returned home.

“But I will be back,” she said. “We have to look after both our homes as well

as our fight. I watered the fields before I came here. It will sustain the land until I return home.”

While the men have been camping at the Tikri and Singhu border, the main access point into the city from Punjab, many of the women have been travelling back and forth, balancing the jobs of taking care of their homes and fields and also participating in the

agitation. Mandeep’s companion on the five-hour bus ride from Ludhiana to Singhu was her neighbour Sukhwinder Kaur.

The 68-year-old widow said she was tired of sitting at home while the men in her family were out protesting, and decided she needed to come down, even if it was for a short visit.

“I wasn’t being able to sleep at night proper-

ly. I couldn’t sit back at home while my brother and nephew, and all our farmer brothers, are fighting here.

I had my first good night of sleep after I came here,” Sukhwinder added.

It wasn’t the epitome of comfort and toilets were a problem but that didn’t matter, said the feisty women.

Sukhwinder and Mandeep, with several other women protestors, slept in a water proof tent provided by Khalsa Aid, an international NGO. Sukhwinder said she was aware of the fight the farming community had undertaken but didn’t realise what it actually took to keep the fight going until she came here.

“We are ‘gharelu’ women, don’t know much about the world, but after coming here I have realised how big this fight is. We are prepared for it, however long it takes.

The kind of help we are getting for the protest shows the entire country is with us. I have heard that people from Australia, Canada and America are also with us,” she said.

Ambala, Dec 13 (PTI): Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij, who had tested positive for coronavirus recently, has been shifted to the PGIMS hospital at Rohtak from the civil hospital here after he complained of discomfort, doctors here said on Sunday.

Doctors said the minister was shifted on Saturday night.

Ambala’s Civil Surgeon Dr. Kuldeep Singh said a team of doctors at the Rohtak hospital was monitoring his condition.

Vij, who had last month got one shot of the two-dose trial of the COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin after he offered to be a volunteer, had on December 5 tested positive for the coronavirus.

The 67-year-old BJP leader had offered to be the first volunteer in the phase three trials for Covaxin, an indigenous potential vaccine being developed by Bharat Biotech against COVID-19.

He was administered the dose on November 20 at the Civil Hospital in Ambala

Anil Vij

Cantonment, about 50 km from Chandigarh.

Bharat Biotech had said that clinical trials of the vaccine are based on a two-dose schedule, given 28 days apart. The vaccine efficacy will be determined two weeks after the second dose, it said.

COVAXIN has been designed to be protective 2 weeks after volunteers receive the 2nd dose.

The Union Health Ministry had also stepped in to say that Covaxin is a twodose anti-coronavirus vaccine and that Vij was given

only the first dose a fortnight before he tested positive.

“The antibodies against the infection build up in a human being only after a specific number of days pass after the second dose of the vaccine is taken. This is a two-dose vaccine. The minister in question has taken only one dose of the vaccine,” the ministry had said in a statement..

Vij had earlier said he had gone to Panipat a few days ago where he spent 2-3 hours with a BJP leader, who too had tested positive for COVID-19.

Central forces should be deployed BJP Chief JP Nadda tests Punjab DIG (Prisons) resigns immediately in Bengal: Vijayvargiya positive for Coronavirus in support of protesting farmers

Nadda said.

Earlier this week, several vehicles in the BJP chief ’s convoy were damaged in West Bengal as Nadda was travelling to Diamond Harbour to address a public meeting and some of the party’s leaders and workers were injured by stone-throwing protesters who were allegedly carrying the ruling Trinamool Congress’ (TMC’s) flags at Sirakol.

Lakhminder Singh Jakhar

Singh Badal had said that he has returned his Padma Vibhushan award in protest against the Centre’s farm laws.

SAD (Democratic) leader Sukhdev Singh Dhind-

sa had also announced that he would return the Padma Bhushan award to express solidarity with farmers.

Several international players from Punjab have also extended their support to the farmers’ agitation.

Noted Punjabi poet Surjit Patar had also announced his decision to return his Padma Shri award.

“I’m at pains to describe the way the central government is treating farmers. The government must listen to their miseries. I have taken the decision with a heavy heart,” he said.

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Chandigarh, Dec 13 (PTI): Punjab Deputy Inspector General (Prisons) Lakhminder Singh Jakhar on Sunday said he has resigned from service in support of farmers protesting against three new farm laws.

Jakhar said he tendered his resignation to the state government on Saturday.

Thousands of farmers from Punjab, Haryana and other areas have stayed put at various Delhi border points, protesting against the new farm laws, which they fear will dismantle the minimum support price system, leaving them at the “mercy” of big corporates.

Earlier, Akali Dal stalwart and former Punjab Chief Minister Parkash

DP-5523

in a war of words over the attack on BJP national president J P Nadda’s convoy by alleged TMC supporters when he was travelling to Diamond Harbour in South 24 Parganas district from Kolkata on Thursday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday sought central deputation for three IPS officers over the mob attack on Nadda’s convoy The three officers -Bholanath Pandey (SP, Diamond Harbour), Praveen Tripathi (DIG, Presidency Range) and Rajeev Mishra (ADG, South Bengal) -were responsible for the security of the BJP chief during his December 9-10 visit to the state.

The MHA’s move came a day after the Mamata Banerjee government defiantly

NEW DELHI, DEC 13 (AGENCIES): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president JP Nadda said on Sunday he has tested positive for the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) and that he has been following all the guidelines for home isolation, reports Hindustan Times.

“I got the test done after experiencing the initial symptoms of corona and the report came back positive.

My health is fine and I have been following all the guidelines for home isolation on the advice of doctors,” Nadda tweeted in Hindi.

The BJP chief has asked those who have come in contact with him to get tested. “I request everyone who has come in contact with me in the last few days to please isolate yourself and get yourself checked,”

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Kailash Vijayvargiya

rejected summonses to state chief secretary and police chief to appear before Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla to tender explanation for the attack on Nadda’s motorcade that left several BJP leaders and workers injured and their vehicles damaged.

The TMC has alleged that the orders are politically motivated.

On Sunday, the BJP national general secretary met Visva Bharati Vice-Chancellor Bidyut Chakraborty to discuss details about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual programme to mark the foundation day of the central university on December 24.

The foundation of Visva Bharati was laid during a special ceremony at Santiniketan on December 22, 1918.

Vijayvargiya was accompanied by BJP leader Anupam Hazra during the discussion with the VC. Later Vijayvargiya told reporters, “The PM, who is the Chancellor of Visva Bharati founded by Gurudev Rabindanath Tagore, is slated to address the programme virtually. We discussed the modalities. It was an informal meeting.”

DC-833

Bolpur (WB), Dec 13 (PTI): Claiming that Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee is “banking on violence” to “return to power”, BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya on Sunday said central forces should be deployed immediately in West Bengal to “put an end’ to the “prevailing atmosphere of political violence and terror” in the state.

With Assembly polls due in the state in April-May next year, the BJP Bengal minder appealed to the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections, saying there should not be any place for fear and violence.

“Mamata Baner jee knows that the land under her feet has slipped and so she is trying to return to power in the state on the strength of violence.

“I urge the Election Commission to deploy central forces from now itself in order to put an end to the prevailing atmosphere of political violence and terror in the state,” Vijayvargiya told newspersons here at Santiniketan in Birbhum district.

The ruling TMC and the BJP have been engaged

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXxI NO. 12 Dimapur, MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

I

Legal remedy

n a significant development, the Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench, issued notices on the state government and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes (CBIT) in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by ACAUT Nagaland, Public Action Committee (PAC) and Business Association of Nagas (BAN) with regard rampant and unlawful tax collections in the state. Multiple and unlawful tax collections by various groups including some state government departments at check gates and business at Dimapur and Kohima are not only against the law but have become a great menace. This issue continues to plague the state, which had led several organisations such as ACAUT, PAC and NVCO to raise hue and cry and also public rallies. Public responded spontaneously by attending the rallies to unanimously voice out their total objection to these unlawful tax collections. The government has heard these voices innumerable times but unfortunately too little has been done and till today, these continue unabated. Besides several ‘non-state actors’, there are several other agencies of the state government who collect taxes at various check gates in Dimapur and Kohima. Some government agencies such as forest and geology & mining collect multiple taxes on the same items under ‘royalty’. The municipal councils and veterinary & animal husbandry also collect multiple taxes on livestock etc. Several unions and organisations also insist on their right to collect taxes under the guise of ‘membership fees’ at check gates. Collection of local taxes etc. stood immediately withdrawn after the Goods and Service Tax (GST) took effect to subsume all such taxes. Again, imposition of amount as transport tax is not only arbitrary but unreasonable and worse, the amount is multiplied when taxes are to be paid to not less than half a dozen groups. In addition to imposition of item-wise tax at check gates, the traders are also made to pay godown tax and also compelled to pay hefty freight charges to transporters. It may also be pertinent to note that the state chief secretary had issued a ban on all such collections in 2009 and repeated with another order in 2012. Little was done as the efforts were almost halfhearted. Then in 2014, the Gauhati High Court had also banned such collections and left it to the state government to follow it up. In response to a demand by ACAUT Nagaland, the state government constituted a three-member High Power Committee (HPC) headed by retired Supreme Court judge H.K. Sema. The HPC submitted its report to the state government in October 2014 but till date nothing has been heard of it. The recent notices served on the state government as well as CBIT. What should be done is apply the rule of the law without mixing it up with other issues. On the part of the government, it does not matter which party is in power.

If the policing is reduced to mere tokenism then it has the potential of resulting in a failed state. The problem needs to be understood from legal, institutional, moral, cultural and religious aspects. Fighting crimes is not a one-time effort nor can it be measured by success in cracking a few cases; it is a continuous process that has to go on to ensure that citizens are safe and that the rule of law prevails under every circumstances.

Hopefully, the High Court will also ensure that the respondents take prompt action otherwise face contempt of court proceedings.

DailyDevotion Intercessory Prayer

…men always ought to pray and not lose heart.

—Luke 18:1 You cannot truly intercede through prayer if you do not believe in the reality of redemption.

Instead, you will simply be turning intercession into useless sympathy for others, which will serve only to increase the contentment they have for remaining out of touch with God. True intercession involves bringing the person, or the circumstance that seems to be crashing in on you, before God, until you are changed by His attitude toward that person or circumstance. Intercession means to “fill up…[with] what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ” (Colossians 1:24), and this is precisely why there are so few intercessors. People describe intercession by saying, “It is putting yourself in someone else’s place.” That is not true! Intercession is putting yourself in God’s place; it is having His mind and His perspective.

As an intercessor, be careful not to seek too much information from God regarding the situation you are praying about, because you may be overwhelmed. If you know too much, more than God has ordained for you to know, you can’t pray; the circumstances of the people become so overpowering that you are no longer able to get to the underlying truth.

Our work is to be in such close contact with God that we may have His mind about everything, but we shirk that responsibility by substituting doing for interceding. And yet intercession is the only thing that has no drawbacks, because it keeps our relationship completely open with God. What we must avoid in intercession is praying for someone to be simply “patched up.” We must pray that person completely through into contact with the very life of God. Think of the number of people God has brought across our path, only to see us drop them! When we pray on the basis of redemption, God creates something He can create in no other way than through intercessory prayer.

Quotes

Home is the nicest word there is. ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

Farm yields, income fall; FPI, corp ingress rise

T

he farmer issue is getting interesting.

With the farm laws the foreign investors are bringing more money and funding for warehousing is also increasing though the farmer gets low returns.

The farmers on December 8 talks refused to accept government’s offer of written guarantee on minimum support price (MSP) and offer of levying cess on the new private mandis outside the APMC mandis. They allege that ingress of corporate is rising and review is must.

The facts prove it.

Over the years, between 2013-14 and 2017-18, as farmers’ return on their produce start reducing, the foreign portfolio investment (FPI) is booming and funding for silo – giant steel structures for storing grains for a longer duration - construction increases.

Since 1967, when APMC Act was enforced, never have farmers been at such a distress and confusion. Normally, despite not being able to sell at MSPs, they were not unhappy at the returns. The MSP decided a floor price and provided the bargaining strength to them against the market forces.

In 2013-14, the paddy price was 58 percent higher than

average input and labour costs. This margin shrank to 41 percent in 2018. The difference on maize reduced from 43 percent to 25.6 percent.

Other crops like wheat, moong, jowar, bajra, arhar, groundnut, gram, rapeseed, mustard, barley, cotton soybean also were noticed to be less profitable. Despite rise in MSP, in the past five years the farmer’s actual income has not seen much increase.

Indian farmers have reasons to be unhappy. Their yields are low. World average for rice per kg per hectare in 2018 is 4679, maize 5924, all pulses 964, arhar 852, soybean 2791, groundnut 1611, wheat 3425, barley 2951 and gram 965. The Indian average is rice 2638, maize 3070, all pulses 757, arhar 757, soybean 1192, groundnut 1422, wheat 3371, barley 2693 and gram 956. The prices they get are less and as the cost is high, approaching international markets is not easy.

In this backdrop if it is linked to FPI, the trend is surprising. In June, 2020, the FPI was Rs 11,736 crore.

It doubles to Rs 22,866 crore in July. The three farm laws were introduced as ordinances on June 5. In Au-

gust as the farm bills were introduced for passing by Parliament, the investments jump to Rs 1,30,576 crore.

About half the investments surprisingly came from two tiny countries, Mauritius and Singapore. Another large investor was not Netherland.

These three countries have been the topmost foreign investors. These are destinations for round tripping – that is the funds are routed through these countries by various investors and supposedly include domestic ones (Indians) too.

The investments are reporte d ly m a d e in farms, toll Shivaji roads, rail corridors, airports, ports, smart cities, film cities and similar ventures. Such investments have heavy baggage.

The falling rupee-dollar parity and high sensex are linked to these maneuverings.

Fifty five percent of the foreign fund flow has reportedly gone to two western provinces, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Uttar Pradesh has got only one percent.

The International Monetary Fund and Copenhagen University report says that 40 percent of the total foreign capital comes

from disguised sources. But international money flows like that despite many recent revelations. It is just not for tax saving but there are many other reasons. Many investors prefer to keep their footprints in shrouds to avoid competition and other strategic reasons.

The recent developments about the farm bills and construction of silos are also being linked. It is being said that silos in Panipat and Katihar were built by some industrialists during the past few years. The modern silos have been built in Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Sarkar Pradesh and are likely to come up in other states as well. Earlier, these warehouses were being built by Central Warehousing Corporation and Food Corporation of India (FCI) largely.

As the need for storage is increasing the private sector has joined the efforts.

The change started in 2007. A Gujarat house has been building the silos for FCI. It has built such silos at Naultha and Jondhan Kalan, and Kaithal in Haryana and Punjab’s Moga. Some farmers alleged that now the farm produce would be straightway purchased by

the business group as they could store as much as they wanted and the FCI would have to purchase it from it for releasing the requirements for public distribution system.

The Adani group on December 9 has clarified in its twitter handle, “The company has no role in deciding the volume of storages as well as the pricing of grain as it is only a service or infrastructure provider for the FCI”.

The National Agriculture Policy since 2003 envisages that private sector participation will be promoted through contract farming and land leasing arrangements to allow accelerated technology transfer, capital inflow and assured market for crop production, especially of oilseeds, cotton and horticultural crops.

The farmers’ apprehension of corporate ingress may not be incorrect. Many large companies have entered the area. It is also estimated that since most farm holdings are small, there is large attrition. It is estimated that 330 farmers leave their land every week.

This void is likely to be filled up by the corporate.

There are many companies dealing or cultivating

various corps. Many are listed on the stock exchanges.

As of March 31, 2019, 7374 companies are registered in the farm sector. There are about 2000 farmer producer organisations registered with NABARD. On July 5, 2019, the Centre announced a plan to promote 10,000 new farmer producer companies over the next five years.

The corporate ingress has impact on farmers as well as consumers because the business pattern is to change. The government by the three new laws has sought to create a new situation. The farmers’ moves are not against reforms. The movement is apparently for the nation to chart out an informed course lest India becomes a Venezuela, which is facing man-made disaster with currency distortions and government takeover of food distribution.

Since it is a critical issue, a detailed discussion and policy formulations are needed.

For a reassuring national environment the three laws having larger ramifications need a review with farmers, political parties, and finance and market experts. Let the nation not shy away from understanding the problem for an apt solution.

Post-mortem

E

Combat climate change

very year, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) releases an Emissions Gap Report showing the difference between estimated current greenhouse gas emission levels and the target prescribed by the Paris Agreement on Climate Change signed on December 12, 2015. The later calls for holding the increase in global average temperature in this century to well below 2 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial-revolution level, and for trying to limit it to 1.5 degree Celsius above it.

Each report not only dwells on the gap but provides a comprehensive account of the situation and developments on the environment front during the year, what needs to be done to combat climate change, and the prospects ahead for the world. The current report, 11th in the series titled Emissions Gap Report 2020, released on December 9, 2020, presents, like its predecessors, an alarming picture.

It says that the year 2020 is likely to be the warmest on record, with wildfires, droughts, storms and glacier-melting intensifying.

If one were to identify its most terrifying prognosis, it would be that the world is hurtling towards a temperature increase of over 3 degrees Celsius by the end of this century. And this would be despite a predicted fall of 7 per cent in carbon dioxide emissions as a result of the economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The decline, however, would translate to only 0.01 degree reduction in global warming by 2050, because the emissions would rise again — and become even higher — as economies bounce back.

What all this means begins to become clear on recalling that according to the Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C (The Special Report), released by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on October 7, 2018, the adverse effects of climate change would not be reduced even if the increase is limited to 1.5 degree Celsius.

Sea levels will continue to rise beyond 2100, threatening coastal ecosystems and infrastructure.

Flooding, drought and extreme weather events will wreak havoc around the world. Many species will continue to be driven towards extinction and marine ecosystems could face “irreversible loss.” What is particularly alarming, this level, according to the report, is likely to be reached sometime between 2030 and 2052. Fourteen per cent of the world’s population would be exposed to severe heat waves at least once in five years at the 1.5 degree Celsius warming level.

The percentage would rise to 37 if the level rises to 2 degrees Celsius. Christopher Flavelle’s report, titled Climate Change Threatens the World’s Food Supply, United Nations Warns, in the New York Times of August 8, 2019, quotes Edouard Davin, a researcher at

ETH Zurich and an author of the report, as saying by email, “Above 2 degrees of global warming, there could be an increase of 100 million or more of the population at risk of hunger,” and adding, “We need to act quickly.” A three-degree Celsius increase in temperature, according to a report by Louise Boyle, datelined December 9, 2020, in the Independent of the UK, would cause mass extinctions and leave “swathes of planet uninhabitable.”

It cites the non-profit organisation, Climate Central, as saying that 275 million people would be at risk in areas flooded by seal-level rise.

It is a grim scenario on almost every front. A 65-page “Summary for Policymakers” of another IPCC special report of 2019 stated that a food crisis loomed large, especially in tropical and sub-tropical regions, if carbon dioxide emissions continued unchecked. It added that besides significantly reducing crop yields, rising temperatures may also bring down the nutritional value of crops. Floods, droughts, storms and other forms of extreme weather conditions threatened to disrupt and, over time, reduce the world’s food supply.

According to Stephen Leahy’s report, “World food crisis looms if carbon emissions go unchecked, UN says” in the National Geographic of August 8, 2019, already, more than 10 percent of the world’s population remained undernourished. It quoted Cynthia Rozenzweig, Coordinating Lead Author of the IPCC’s Special Report on Climate Change and Land, and a climatologist at the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, as saying that extreme weather events had already increased in size and intensity, and are playing a role in food price spikes.

It cited the examples of extensive spring floods in the US Midwest in 2019 leading to very late planting of corn and soy crops, reducing their potential yields. It also mentioned drought playing havoc with rice crops in Thailand and Indonesia and sugarcane and oilseeds produces in India in 2019 when record-breaking heat waves in Europe were feared to be causing a 13 per cent decline in French wine production. Apart from undernourishment and hunger, food shortages could lead to an increase in cross-border migration, which is having an unfortunate impact on politics in North America and Europe.

The question arises: What are the chances of averting the dismal future that seems to face the world?

There are some glimmers of hope.

The Emissions Gap Report 2020 says that the predicted emission rates could be reduced by around 25 per cent if Governments commit to a path of “green recovery” from the pandemic’s disaster. This would give the world a fighting chance to keep global warming down to 2 degrees Celsius by the end of this century. Treading this path would require the provision

or direct support to zero-emissions technologies and infrastructure, reducing fossil fuel subsidies, promoting measures like afforestation and avoiding deforestation. Trees are most important as they reduce the presence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by absorbing it.

Agricultural practices and global food supply systems account for one-third of the global carbon emissions. It is, therefore, important to orient them towards reducing carbon emissions. For example, steps like the draining of wetlands to make room for cultivation - as has happened in Indonesia and Malaysia to create palm oil plantations - should be avoided as that would release into the air the huge amounts of carbon dioxide gas trapped in these water bodies. Further, the Special Report on Climate Change and Land calls for institutional changes like providing farmers with better access to credit in developing countries and giving them stronger property rights. It further advocated utilisation of the skills and knowledge of indigenous and local people to devise agricultural practices aimed at promoting biodiversity conservation and combating desertification and land degradation.

Along with agriculture, the Emissions Gap Report 2020 emphasises the need for shipping and aviation industries, which account for five per cent of global emissions, to combine energy efficiency with a rapid transition away from fossil fuels.

Around two-thirds of global emissions being linked to private households, changes in consumption and behaviour patterns are required. Cycling, car-sharing, and more energy-efficient housing needs to be promoted. Travel by rail rather than air is recommended for short journeys. The wealthy, particularly, need to make significant changes in their lifestyles as the richest 1 per cent of the world’s population accounts for more than twice the combined share of the poorest 50 per cent. There is a special need to avoid food loss and wastage.

There are some encouraging signs. While President Donald Trump of the US walked out of the Paris Agreement and derided the idea of climate change, President-elect Joe Biden has not only decided to rejoin but has set a target for net-zero emissions no later than 2050. According to the Emissions Gap Report 2020, some 126 countries, covering 51 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, have so far, adopted, announced or are considering, a net zero pledge by 2050.

Nevertheless, optimism needs to be kept on a tight leash. Between promise and performance, and resolve and result, falls more than a shadow. In this case, the shadow will darken the future of the entire world.

Hiranmay Karlekar (Consulting Editor, The Pioneer)

Covid-19: A distressing spike in violence

H

ead bleeding, the woman had managed to get to a police station in Delhi only to be told to come back with a mask. Elsewhere, another victim of domestic violence was chastised: “People are dying and you want to file a case for such a small issue.”

The two incidents, documented in a seven-state survey, At Home, At Risk by a consortium of eight non-governmental organisations (NGOs), highlight the problem of domestic violence redressal during the pandemic.

There has been a massive surge in gender-based violence globally.

In India, the National Commission of Women (NCW) reported an exponential rise, the largest in a decade, noting that a third of 13,410 complaints, including 4,350 of domestic violence, were filed during the lockdown.

Cases of marital violence shot up by 99% during the lockdown compared to pre-pandemic times, while violence against trans-people was up 92% and natal violence 50%.

Post-lockdown there is a distressing lack of data; only anecdotal evidence. “Financial difficulties, lack of work, shortages of basic necessities and mental stress is causing a very tense environment at home,” says Krati Prakash, Breakthrough India’s Uttar Pradesh head.

Violence against women is hardly new. National Crime Records Bureau data for 2018, the latest year for which it is available, recorded the murder of 8,500 women by a spouse or family member — more than 23 women a day — in addition to 1,03,372 reported domestic violence cases.

Those that go unreported are

anybody’s guess.

And yet, the pandemic might provide an opportunity to fight this ingrained violence with renewed vigour. If you’re a bystander, says Breakthrough’s Sohini Bhattacharya, you can intervene without putting yourselves in harm’s way.

Underutilised Nirbhaya funds can prop up one-stop centres and shelter homes.

A study of violence during the lockdown by Saravana Ravindran and Manisha Shah published on Ideas for India finds a link between attitudes and domestic violence.

In districts where men justified the use of violence to a National Family Health Survey in 2015-16, the researchers found much higher cases of violence during the pandemic. In districts where women justified violence, reporting was the least.

There’s an important lesson for policymakers here. To stop gender-based violence, target attitudinal change through interventions in education, ad campaigns and other behaviour change communication.

The global 16-day campaign against gender violence that ended on December 10 reminds us of the remaining 349 days of hard work teaching young boys and girls why violence is unacceptable.

Concerned about the peak in violence, in April a group of NGOs wrote to Niti Aayog, NCW and the ministry for women and child welfare asking that helplines and support services be declared as “essential” during the lockdown.

To date, the NGOs have no clarity on whether this was done.

Namita Bhandare (The views expressed are personal)

Reader’s Post

Sir,

The real Christmas 2020

Christmas has been celebrated every year with so much of fun and excitement. Personally, Christmas to me had always been about distribution of cakes and meat, getting to buy new clothes, exchanging gifts, Boney M and joyrides. It never crossed my mind that one day; the whole meaning of Christmas would change. 2020 like the digits itself, so mysterious and random, changed my entire perspectives about Christmas.

Over the past 11 months and 13 days, we have seen many people struggling to meet the needs of their family. While some lucky ones profited from the lockdown, many of us suffered huge setbacks- financially and economically. During these times, death had also visited many homes, snatching the lives of those we hold so dear.

Yet I consider us-- you and I, the fortunate ones. We not only braved a year distraughtly mysterious but we were also drawn to the notion that there is in fact a Superior being who always looks out for us.

2020 in a bewitching sort of way, has made us all realize that Christmas is not only about us but it’s about the many “thems” we ignore and avoid.

So, let this Christmas be a time of healing, of providing comfort and solace to the needy, of loving your neighbors, of finding happiness in knowing that you have made it this far, of clinging to the Bible.

And in this spirit, I pray you find Christ in yourselves.

Blessed Christmas!

Akumla Temjen, 5th mile, Dimapur

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

7

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

‘No compromise in clinical testing of COVID vaccines’ Vice Prez, PM, Speaker, ministers pay

Stealth frigate to be launched on Monday

Gagandeep Kang

“What has changed is the approach to the testing where all steps that used to happen between phases of clinical trials have been cut out, which means regulators are working much longer and harder than they ever have before,” Kang said.

Everybody is talking about things being done very fast but “I think it is very important to know what steps we are cutting out and quite frankly, in all of the testing of vaccines that is being done, there is no aspect of testing that is being removed from the development pathway”, she said.

“I think it is very important to understand that there has been absolutely no compromise in clinical testing of COVID-19 vac-

cines. The only thing that we do not have from these trials, that we might have had otherwise, is the duration of safety follow-up.

Generally, we follow up on trials for six months or one year, and generally, we do not find anything extra in the six months or one year,” Kang said.

Kang, who was the executive director of the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) but resigned in July, said that another thing that is different in the development of COVID19 vaccines is that clinical trials have been made very large to get results faster.

To a question on availability of cold chain capacity to store vaccines, she said that equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines should be ensured.

The case should not be that those who live in big cities, where there is better cold chain capacity, get vaccinated while those in rural areas or small towns do not get it because of lack of storage facilities, Kang said.

“My worry with all of it is the question of equity, will we end up with a sys-

tem where we have freezers in big cities and some classes of people can get vaccines, whereas in rural areas or small towns there is no access to these vaccines as cold chain capacity does not exist,” she said.

“Even in the work that we are planning to do with the Lancet Commission, equity is a big part of looking at what services are provided to whom and where, and making sure that where you live and what your socio-economic status is does not determine what kind of services you get,” Kang said.

The Lancet, a global health journal, on Friday launched the Lancet Citizens’ Commission on Reimagining India’s Health System, which will work on developing a strategy for implementing universal health coverage (UHC) in India.

The journal and the Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute, Harvard University, together formulated the commission.

Speaking about the Lancet commission, Kang said that its purpose is to aim for universal health

coverage to examine all health concerns, to look at mental and physical health problems and their solutions, to ensure that catastrophic health expenditure does not happen and make sure coverage is accessible and affordable.

The commission is being led by four distinguished health and business leaders, including Kang and CMD Biocon Ltd Kiran Mazumdar Shaw.

“If we think about Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have a target of 2030, there is no way we can achieve these goals with the trajectory that we have at the moment.

So what we are seeking to do over the next few years is to try and layout a roadmap to make sure we are on a better path to achieving the SDGs,” Kang said.

She said in India, out of pocket payments for healthcare continue to be highest in the world and it is one of many reasons why many families are driven into poverty. This kind of “catastrophic health expenditure” actually winds up promoting further health inequities in the system, Kang said.

tributes to Parliament attack heroes

PM Narendra Modi pays homage to martyrs who lost their lives in 2001 Parliament attack to mark its 19th anniversary, at Parliament House in New Delhi, Sunday. (PTI)

New Delhi, Dec 13 (PTI): Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairperson M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Speaker Om Birla, Union ministers and Opposition leaders on Sunday paid tributes at the Parliament complex to those who lost their lives in the 2001 Parliament attack.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson Harivansh, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Leader of Opposition in the Upper House Ghulam

Nabi Azad, Ram Gopal Yadav of the Samajwadi Party and Rajiv Shukla of the Congress were among those who paid tributes at a brief ceremony held outside the Parliament building.

Those present observed a moment of silence as a mark of respect for the martyrs.

Nineteen years ago on December 13, terrorists of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) attacked the Parliament complex and opened fire.

Five Delhi Police personnel, a woman Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) trooper and two Parliament Watch and Ward Staff died taking on the terrorists. A gardener and a photojournalist also died.

All five terrorists were shot dead by security forces in retaliatory action.

Earlier, President Ram Nath Kovind said the nation gratefully remembers the brave martyrs who laid down their lives defending Parliament on this day in 2001.

TRP scam: Republic TV CEO arrested PIL filed against anti-conversion law in UP

Mumbai, Dec 13 (PTI): Mumbai Police arrested Republic Media Network’s Chief Executive Officer Vikas Khanchandani on Sunday morning in connection with the alleged TRP (Television Rating Points) rigging scam, a police official said.

Khanchandani was arrested from his residence here by the police’s Crime Intelligence Unit (CIU), he said. He will be produce before a court for further remand, the official said. The police began a probe into the alleged scam after ratings

at sample households, is crucial for attracting advertisers. The BARC engaged Hansa to install and maintain barometers which record TV viewership data at sample households.

It was alleged that some of these families were being bribed to tune into certain channels to ramp up their TRP. In a charge sheet filed recently, the police alleged that an official of Hansa paid money to sample households to tune into Box Cinema, Fakt Marathi, Maha Movie and Republic TV.

Kolkata, Dec 13 (PTI): Defence PSU GRSE-built first Project 17A stealth frigate, an addition to the naval power of the venerable Indian Navy, will be launched on Monday, an official said Vikas Khanchandani here.

Chief of Defence Staff agency Broadcast Audience General Bipin Rawat will Research Council (BARC) be the chief guest at the cerfiled a complaint through emony, he said.

Hansa Research Agency After touching water, about rigging of TRP by the first of the three statesome channels. of-the-art naval ships being TRP, measured by rebuilt by the GRSE under cording viewership data Project 17A, will undergo extensive trials and fittings of ultra-modern gadgets before it is delivered to the Navy.

Srinagar, Dec 13 (PTI): A shikara, The ship will be carrying BJP workers and mediapersons, launched by Madhulika capsized in the Dal Lake on Sunday during Rawat, wife of General campaign for the ongoing District DevelopRawat, at the Garden Reach ment Council elections, officials said here.

Shipbuilders and Engineers The shikara capsized when it was closing (GRSE) here on the banks on the bank of the lake in the last leg of the of River Hooghly. rally. The BJP workers and journalists were P17A ships are guided rescued by locals, State Disaster Response missile frigates, each of Force (SDRF) personnel and police. which is 149 metres long, The shikara rally was led by Union with displacement of apminister Anurag Thakur, who is the BJP’s proximately 6,670 tonnes in-charge for DDC elections in Jammu and a speed of 28 knots, ‘Shikara’ carrying BJP leaders capsized in and Kashmir. Tarun Chug and Shahnawaz Hussain were also present in the rally. another official said.

Dal Lake in Srinagar, Sunday. (PTI)

Shikara carrying BJP workers, media persons capsizes

Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), Dec 13 (IANS): A public interest litigation (PIL) petition has been filed before the Allahabad High Court challenging the constitutional validity of Uttar Pradesh government’s ordinance against religious conversions.

The court is yet to admit the plea.

An advocate, Saurabh Kumar, has moved the court stating that the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Ordinance, 2020, is both morally and constitutionally invalid.

He has requested the court to declare this law as ‘ultra vires of the Constitution’. Besides, the petitioner has requested the court to direct the authorities not to take any coercive action in pursuance of the ordinance which was promulgated last month.

According to the petition, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had, on October 31, 2020, made a statement that his government will bring a

law against ‘love jihad’, a term used to discredit marriages between the Muslim men and Hindu women, and described it as part of a conspiracy to promote conversion of the Hindu women.

In his statement, the Chief Minister had referred to a single bench judgment of the Allahabad high court in the case which observed that religious conversion just for the sake of mar-

riage was invalid.

The petitioner pointed out that a few days later, a division bench of the high court overruled the single bench verdict.

The division bench in this case held that the right to live with a person of his/ her choice irrespective of religion professed by them, is intrinsic to the right to life and personal liberty.

The division bench had observed this while holding

the single bench judgment as ‘not good in law’.

It has also been submitted that these provisions give the state policing powers over a citizen’s choice of life partner or religion and are thus positioned against the fundamental rights to individual autonomy, privacy, human dignity and personal liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution (right to life and personal liberty).

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New Delhi, Dec 13 (PTI): Seeking to allay apprehension of people over safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, noted clinical scientist Gagandeep Kang said that though vaccines for the coronavirus are being developed in a short period of time, there has been absolutely no compromise in their clinical testing.

Kang, who is associated with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness, a global consortium involved in facilitating vaccine candidates for the novel coronavirus, also said that there should be equitable COVID-19 vaccine access globally and domestically.

Known for her interdisciplinary research on transmission, development and prevention of infections and their sequelae in children in India, Kang is also the first Indian woman to be inducted as a Fellow of the Royal Society in London.

Though vaccines for the coronavirus are being developed in a “very short period of time”, all clinical phases of testing are being done, she told PTI in an interview.

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Kamal Haasan asks PM to explain need for new Parliament building

Kamal Haasan

10. He also performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the structure, which is expected to be completed by 2022.

Speaking to reporters before leaving for the temple town, Haasan alleged that the authorities had at the last minute not granted permission for MNM to campaign within urban areas, though they had got the nod to go ahead in ‘many places’.

Asked about the focus of his party’s campaign, he said would be ushering in a complete transformation in Tamil Nadu.

“There is no doubt about degeneration in the state... people know that well and there is no point lamenting..MNM will talk about what needs to be done now,” he said, apparently targeting the two Dravidian parties, AIADMK and DMK, who have in turn ruled the state since 1967.

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Chennai, Dec 13 (PTI): MNM chief Kamal Haasan on Sunday demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spell out the rationale behind constructing a new Parliament building for about Rs 1,000 crore “when half of India is hungry due to coronavirus pandemic triggered loss of livelihoods”.

Seeking to liken the proposed construction of the new edifice to the centuries old Great Wall of China, he claimed that ‘thousands of people perished’ during its construction, but the dragon nation rulers said the wall was to ‘guard’ the people.

“To protect whom is a new Parliament building being constructed at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore when half of India is hungry due to the coronavirus pandemic triggered loss of livelihoods,’ the Makkal Needhi Maiam leader asked in a tweet.

‘Answer honourable elected Prime Minister,’ he said hours before kick starting the first phase of his campaign for the Assembly polls from Madurai in southern Tamil Nadu.

Assembly elections are due during April-May 2021 in Tamil Nadu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a new Parliament building on December

8

business/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur monDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

Suzuki to launch diesel vehicles FM reviews progress of various schemes Maruti next year after exiting sector: report

He recalled how his father used to share his stories and experiences, which will be missed and remembered.

Daughter of Ghokheto, Atokili Chophy, in her message, shared the experience of the family during the treatment of her after in Delhi, during the past three months. She said that even though people described her father as a dynamic person, for the family he was a loving and caring father who considered himself as an ordinary man. Atokili also shared about the beautiful

memories and time spent with her father from childhood.

Wife of late Chophy, Hosihili Kiba thanked every individual who came to pay their respects and for the support and love extended to the family during the hour grief.

Hosihili, in her emotional message, said that her husband breathed his last on the day of their 33rd marriage anniversary (December 11, 1987-2020).

She also described her husband as a loving father and a wonderful husband.

Others organizations such as Western Sümi

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KAKURO

Hoho, Central Nagaland Tribes, Chophimi Lagha Kuposhukulu Nagaland, Sumi Council Dimapur, Riverbelt Colony Council, Hindu Seva Samiti, Muslim Council Dimapur, Asukhomi GB, Asukhomi Union Dimapur, Asukho Kughuko, Naga Women Hoho Dimapur, Dimapur Naga Students Union, friends and relatives spoke at the funeral and paid tributes to the departed soul.

The ser vice was chaired by DSBC associate pastor Kanili Aye and DSBC senior pastor Rev. S Vitoshe Swu conducted the funeral rites.

Mumbai, Dec 13 (IANS): Rising crude oil prices along with widening trade deficit has elevated the depreciation risk level for the Indian rupee during the upcoming week.

Accordingly, other factors like failure of Brexit talks as well as changes in US Fed’s stand might the downside risks.

“We expect the rupee to trade strong till the time equity flows are robust,” said Sajal Gupta, Head, Forex and Rates, Edelweiss Securities. Last week, foreign institutional investors pumped in over Rs 15,000 crore into the equity markets. The inflow

not just lifted equities but also swelled the Reserve Bank’s forex reserves. “But, risks of depreciation are rising with crude oil prices rising above $50 a barrel and rising monthly trade deficit,” Gupta said.

“Brexit talks failure can also lead to some volatility in markets.”

The crude oil prices have been gaining during the week in anticipation of the FDA’s potential approval of Pfizer’s vaccine, as Asia’s economic recovery is making Chinese and Indian refiners acquire more oil, and on rising geopolitical risks in the Middle East after

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Iraq had two wells hit.

Besides, the preliminary trade data on November showed that India became a net importer in November 2020, with a trade deficit of $9.96 billion.

“The dollar has been falling as we expected and now has reached near term support,” said Devarsh Vakil, Deputy Head of Research at HDFC Securities.

“We expect the rupeedollar to correct after four weeks of appreciation and head towards 74 mark next week. The 73.4 mark remains strong support for the pair.”

According to Gaurang

Somaiya, Forex and Bullion Analyst, Motilal Oswal Financial Services, said: “For the week, focus will be on inflation number; expectation is that the number could rise and that would further trim expectation of rate cut by the RBI.” “For the week, we expect the USD-INR (Spot) to trade sideways to positive and quote in the range of 73.40 and 74.20.”

Next week, the National Statistics Office is slated to release the macroeconomic data points of Consumer Price Index on December 14. It will also release the Wholesale Price

Index on Monday.

Additionally, Rahul Gupta, Head of ResearchCurrency at Emkay Global Financial Services, said: “Going ahead, the expectations of an additional US fiscal stimulus package along with the backdrop of more promising coronavirus vaccine development news will continue to support the risk-on environment.”

“While the dollar bulls will be on the sidelines ahead of next week’s Fed policy. We expect the Fed to maintain a status quo however update the growth and inflation forecast along with a dovish stance.”

EPFO likely to credit 8.5 pc interest on EPF NEW DELHI, Dec 13 (PTI): Retirement fund body EPFO is likely to credit 8.5 per cent rate of interest for 2019-20 in the employees’ provident fund (EPF) accounts of around six crore subscribers in one go by the end of December.

Earlier in September this year, the Employees Provident Fund Organisation had decided to split 8.5 per cent interest into two installments of 8.15 per cent and 0.35 per cent in its trustees meet headed by Labour Minister Santosh Gangwar.

A highly placed source told PTI that the Labour Ministry has sent a proposal to the Finance Ministry to give concurrence to credit 8.5 per cent rate of interest on EPF for 2019-20 earlier this month.

“The Ministry of Finance ratification is likely in few days. Thus the interest is likely to be credited by this

month only.”

The source further said that earlier the Ministry of Finance had sought some clarifications on the rate of interest for the last fiscal, which were duly addressed.

In March this year, the EPFO’s apex decision making body Central Board of Trustees headed by Labour Minister Santosh Gangwar had approved 8.5 per cent interest rate on EPF for 2019-20.

In a virtual CBT meeting in September, the EPFO had decided to honour its commitment to provide 8.5 per cent rate of interest for the last fiscal. But the CBT had also decided to split the rate of interest into two installments of 8.15 per cent and 0.35 per cent in view of the pandemic.

The labour ministry had then explained that “in view of exceptional circumstances arising out

of COVID-19, the agenda regarding interest rate was reviewed by the CBT and it recommended the same rate of 8.50 per cent to the Central Government.

“It (8.5 per cent interest) would comprise of 8.15 per cent from debt income and balance 0.35 per cent (capital gain) from the sale of ETFs (exchange traded funds) subject to their redemption by 31st December, 2020,” it had said.

The CBT had recommended accounting such capital gains (from sale of ETFs) in the income of the financial year 2019-20 as being an exceptional case.

As planned earlier, the EPFO had to provide 8.15 per cent interest on EPF soon after seeking Ministry of Finance nod. It has planned to credit the remaining 0.35 per cent rate by December 31, after proposed liquidation of ETFs.

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NCD president Ghokheto Chophy laid to rest

pany is looking to upgrade the current set- up at the Manesar plant, which earlier used to churn out its in-house developed BS-IV compliant 1,500-cc diesel engine.

MSI had used this powertrain briefly in its midsized sedan Ciaz and Ertiga before deciding to pull the plug on the diesel segment.

The company’s other models like Vitara Brezza, Dzire, Swift, S-Cross and Baleno at that time used to be powered by the Fiatsourced 1,300 diesel unit.

MSI’s entire model range is currently powered

by BS-VI compliant 1 litre, 1.2 litre and 1.5 litre gasoline engines. The company sells CNG versions of some of the models.

On April 26, 2019, MSI Chairman RC Bhargava had announced that the company will phase out all diesel cars from its portfolio with effect from April 1, 2020.

He reasoned that small diesel cars would see the maximum impact in terms of pricing with the coming of BS-VI compliant engines.

He, however, at that time had added that if there is a demand for BS-VI diesel cars the company might go ahead and cater to that demand.

“Depending on how customers react to BS VI diesel cars if we find there is a market of BS VI diesel cars we will develop such a car within a reasonable period of time,” Bhargava had said. In July this year, MSI Executive Director Sales and Marketing Shashank Srivastava had hinted that the company may look at having a bigger BS-VI diesel engine at a later stage if there were enough customers for diesel-powered big SUVs and sedans.

“Those customers who do not care about economics for running the car may still be buying the diesel cars and for that the company has said it is watching the market very closely,” Srivastava had said.

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February 29, 2020. Under ECLGS 2.0, entities with outstanding credit above Rs 50 crore and not exceeding Rs 500 crore as on February 29, 2020, which were less than or equal to 30 days past due as on February 29, 2020 are eligible, the ministry said.

The loans provided under ECLGS 2.0 will have a five-year tenor, with a 12-month moratorium on repayment of principal. The entire scheme (ECLGS 1.0 and ECLGS 2.0) valid till March 31, 2021, it said.

Some of the sectors identified by the Kamath Committee for one-time debt restructuring included power, construction, real estate, textiles, pharmaceuticals, logistics, cement,

New Delhi, Dec 13 (PTI): The country’s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) is looking to enter the diesel segment once again next year as the vertical continues to draw a lot of customers especially in the high selling SUV and multipurpose vehicle segments, as per industry sources.

The auto major had discontinued diesel models from its portfolio with the onset of stricter BS-VI emission norms from April this year.

As per the sources, MSI has initiated the process to upgrade its Manesar-based powertrain plant so that it can start rolling out BSVI diesel engines starting middle or festive season next year. Sources also confirmed that the company plans to utilise the BS-VI compliant diesel powertrain in the Ertiga and Vitara Brezza to start with in the domestic market.

The auto major however did not specify any reasons for reentering the diesel segment.

When contacted, an MSI spokesperson said in a statement: “We cannot give any guidance on future technologies.”

Sources said the com-

DP-5509

accounts have received Rs 1,58,626 crore till December 4, Rs 3 lakh crore collateralfree guaranteed loans budgetary provision of Rs 4,000 crore made for the Scheme in First Supplementary Demand for Grants for FY 2020-21. Announcing Aatmanirbhar Bharat Package 3.0 last month, the Finance Minister had said that Rs 2.05 lakh crore sanctioned and Rs 1.52 lakh crore disbursed under ECLGS 1.0.

As part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan 3.0 (announced on November 12), ECLGS Scheme has been extended through ECLGS 2.0 for the 26 stress sectors and health care sector with credit outstanding of above Rs 50 crore and up to Rs 500 crore as on

special saturation drive.

It further said that public sector banks (PSBs) have purchased bonds and commercial papers worth Rs 27,794 crore issued by 67 NBFCs under the revamped Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme (PCGS). “PCGS 2.0-Purchase of portfolio of Rs 27,794 cr already approved by banks…Rs 25,000 cr. disbursed from Additional Emergency Working Capital Funding for farmers through NABARD (as on December 4),” it said.

New front loaded refinance facility of Rs 30,000 crore sanctioned by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) during COVID19 to Regional Rural Banks and Cooperative Banks.

This is over and above Rs 90,000 crore to be provided

by NABARD through the normal refinance route during this year.

“Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued refunds of over Rs 1,45,619 crore to more than 89.29 lakh taxpayers between 1st April 2020 and 8th December 2020. Income Tax refunds of Rs. 43,274 crore have been issued in 87,29,626 cases & corporate tax refunds of Rs. 1,02,345 crore have been issued in 1,99,554 cases,” it said.

DP-5497(A)

Nirmala Sitharaman

auto components and hotel, restaurants and tourism.

The RBI had in August set up the committee headed by former ICICI Bank chairman K V Kamath for suggesting financial parameters to be factored in the resolution plans under the ‘’Resolution Framework for COVID-19 related Stress’’ along with sector specific benchmark ranges for such parameters.

Talking about progress of other schemes, the finance ministry said Rs 775 crore have been released to Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) under the Rs 1,500 crore ‘Interest Subvention for MUDRA-Shishu Loan’. Of this, Rs 206.73 crore already disbursed to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) as part of the first tranche for immediate release of interest subvention benefit.

With regard to the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, another tweet said, it has covered 1.69 crore farmers with sanctioned credit limit of Rs 1.54 lakh crore as on December 4, 2020. As part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Package, the government has announced to cover 2.5 crore farmers under the KCC scheme with a credit boost of Rs 2 lakh crore through a

DP-5491

New Delhi, Dec 13 (PTI): Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took stock of progress made under various schemes under the three Aatmanirbhar Bharat Packages (ANBP) to help revive economy hit hard by the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic.

Following announcement by the Prime Minister, Sitharaman presented the details of the Rs 20.97 lakh crore ANBP 1.0 in a series of press conferences from May 13-17. It was followed

by AatmaNirbhar Bharat Package 2.0 on October 12 and the third tranche on November 12.

Sitharaman on Friday concluded a comprehensive review of ANBP with the Secretaries of various Ministries and Departments concerned over three days, the Finance Ministry statement said on Sunday. Sharing details of the progress made by various schemes under the ANBP, the statement said, banks have sanctioned loans worth Rs 2,05,563 crore to about 81 lakh accounts under the Rs 3-lakh crore Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) for the MSME sector that was impacted by disruptions caused due to the coronavirus pandemic.

While 40 lakh MSME

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Leaders to push Brexit trade talks

BRUSSELS/LONDON, DEC 13 (AGENCIES): London and Brussels agreed to “go the extra mile” in coming days to try to reach an elusive trade agreement despite missing their latest deadline to avert a turbulent ‘no deal’ exit for Britain from the European Union’s orbit at the end of the month.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the president of the EU’s executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen had given negotiators a Sunday deadline to find a way to resolve an impasse on arrangements that would guarantee Britain zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the EU’s single market.

Both said on Friday that a ‘no-deal’ was now the most likely outcome, but on Sunday they mandated negotiators to continue.

“Despite the exhaustion after almost a year of negotiations, despite the fact that deadlines have been missed over and over we think it is responsible at this point to go the extra mile,” Johnson and von der Leyen said in a joint statement.

Britain quit the EU in January but remains an informal member until Dec. 31 - the end of a transition period during which it has remained in the EU single market and customs union.

A Brexit without a

talks would go on beyond Sunday.

Failure to get a deal would be an “appalling failure of statecraft” on both sides, Martin told the BBC.

SUPPLY DISRUPTION

Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen. (File)

trade deal would damage the economies of Europe, send shockwaves through financial markets, snarl borders and sow chaos through the delicate supply chains across Europe and beyond.

“Every opportunity to reach a deal is highly welcome,” German Chancellor Angela Merkel told a news conference in Berlin.

The two sides have struggled to agree on fishing rights in British waters and EU demands that Britain face consequences if in the future it diverges from the bloc’s rules for fair competition - what it calls a level playing field.

“They are making some inroads on difficult stuff. How to manage divergence and soften the blows for (EU) fishermen is still open,” one EU diplomat

9

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

said. British foreign minister Dominic Raab said earlier the British side needed the EU to shift position on two issues.

“We want to be treated like any other independent self-respecting democracy.

If the EU can accept that at a political level, then there’s every reason to be confident but there is still, I think, a long way to go,” he told Sky News.

O n t h e s a m e p r ogramme, Spanish foreign minister Arancha Gonzalez Laya retorted: “A trade deal is not made to assert one’s independence but to manage our interdependence.”

Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said with some degree of creativity, a solution could be found on the level playing field and that he fervently hoped

The British government has warned that even with a trade deal, 7,000 trucks heading for Channel ports in south-east England could be held in 100-km (62-mile) queues if companies do not prepare the extra paperwork required.

Britain is expected to fast-track the movement of some perishable goods when its transition period ends to help reduce the expected disruption at ports.

The Ministry of Defence said four Royal Navy patrol ships will be ready on Jan. 1 to help protect Britain’s fishing waters in the event of no deal.

There are concerns about possible skirmishes between British and foreign fishing vessels under that scenario because existing rules that give EU boats access to British waters will expire. France on Saturday shrugged off the naval deployment plans.

“Keep calm and carry on,” an official at the French presidential office told Reuters, using a British wartime slogan.

Turkish President Erdogan urges Turks to save water

Xi announces more commitments by China to back global climate actions

ISTANBUL, DEC 13 (IANS): Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged citizens to save water as much as possible as the water levels in the country’s dams are continuously falling due to low precipitations.

“We are having a very dry year... We must all be careful about saving water,” Xinhua news agency quoted Erdogan as saying on Saturday while addressing the opening ceremony of a dam in Gaziantep province via video conference. “Turkey does not have rich water resources.

Therefore, we must use the available means in the most efficient way possible,” he noted.

The Turkish President also said that there was a significant increase in the use of water for cleaning purposes due to the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We must join hands as institutions and citizens.

We need efficient and economical water management,” he pointed out.

The water level in the dams of Istanbul, Turkey’s most populous city with a population of 16.5 million, and those in the capital Ankara dropped to 22 per cent, according to the latest municipal data.

BEIJING, DEC 13 (PTI): President Xi Jinping has announced further commitments by China for 2030 to contribute more to tackle the global climate challenge and called for a new approach by the international community to climate governance, underscoring the importance of green recovery.

According to the 2030 Climate Target Plan, the European Commission has proposed to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 per cent by 2030, increasing the European Union’s ambition on reducing greenhouse gases and setting Europe on a path to becoming climate neutral by 2050.

Xi, addressing the Climate Ambition Summit on Saturday via a video link as the world marked the 5th anniversary of the historic Paris climate agreement aimed at curbing global warming, said that China has made important contributions to adopting the landmark Paris agreement and active efforts in its implementation.

The summit was cohosted by the United Nations, the United Kingdom and France in partnership with Chile and Italy, and brought together global climate leaders -- across governments, business and civil society -- to ramp up climate

Xi Jinping

ambition and help deliver on the Paris Agreement.

Referring to his announcement in September that China would scale up its nationally determined contributions and adopt more vigorous policies and measures, Xi announced China’s further commitments for 2030 to tackle the global climate challenge.

He said that China will lower its carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP by over 65 per cent from the 2005 level, increase the share of non-fossil fuels in primary energy consumption to around 25 per cent, increase the forest stock volume by 6 billion cubic meters from the 2005 level, and bring its total installed capacity of wind and solar power to over 1.2 billion kilowatts, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The US and China are

the top two polluters of the world.

Chances for the implementation of the Paris Agreement on climate change has brightened after US President-elect Joe Biden promised to implementing the Paris deal on the first day of his presidency, reversing President Donald Trump’s decision to pull the US out of it.

The US on November 4 this year formally withdrew from the 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change, a decision originally announced by Donald Trump in 2017.

Xi said: “We will take solid steps to implement the targets just announced, and contribute even more to tackling the global climate challenge. China always honours its commitments”.

The Chinese President also called on all the parties to close ranks and make new advances in climate governance that features win-win cooperation.

“Only by upholding multilateralism, unity and cooperation can we deliver shared benefits and win-win results for all nations. China welcomes all countries’ support for the Paris Agreement and their greater contribution to tackling climate change,” he said.

Khalistan supporters vandalise UN chief calls for more PDM set to stage final power show in Lahore Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in US investment in health systems

WASHINGTON, DEC 13 (PTI): Members of Khalistani se paratists desecrated the statue of Mahatma Gandhi during a protest organised by Sikh-American youths in support of farmers who are protesting against the recently enacted agri laws in India.

Hundreds of Sikhs from in and around Greater Washington DC area, Maryland and Virginia, along with many from other states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Ohio and North Carolina, on Saturday carried out a car rally to the Indian Embassy in downtown Washington DC, where they gathered to express solidarity with the protesting farmers.

However, the peaceful

protest was soon hijacked by the separatist Sikhs who were carrying Khalistani flags with anti-India posters and banners which said they represent “The Republic of Khalistan”.

During the protest, many of the pro-Khalistan Sikh youths flashing Kirpans jumped on the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and pasted a poster over it. The group was raising anti-India and pro-Khalistan slogans.

The Indian Embassy condemned the “mischievous act” by hooligans masquerading as protesters. “The statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Plaza in front of the Embassy was defaced

by Khalistani elements on 12 December 2020.

The Embassy strongly condemns this mischievous act

Antonio Guterres

UNITED NATIONS, DEC 13 (IANS): UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres has called for more investment in health systems.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has shown us just how important it is for all countries to have strong health systems that provide the entire population with quality services when and where they need them,” Xinhua news agency quoted Guterres as saying in a message on Saturday to mark International Universal Health Coverage Day, which falls annually on December 12.

“This year we have seen the tragedy that strikes when health facilities are overwhelmed by a new, highly infectious and often deadly disease, and when the effort to address that emergency means that systems are so stretched they can no longer provide other

essential services such as cancer screening, routine immunization and care for mothers and babies.”

Countries must do far more to achieve the goal of universal health coverage by 2030, he said.

This means spending more on health. But it also means spending better, from protecting health workers and strengthening infrastructure to preventing diseases and providing health care close to home, in the community. Investments in health systems also improve countries’ preparedness and response to future health emergencies, he said.

Health emergencies have disproportionate impacts on marginalized and vulnerable populations. As new Covid-19 vaccines, tests and treatments become available, they must reach all those who need them.

Representational image.

LAHORE, DEC 13 (IANS): Despite the Pakistan government’s ban on holding public rallies in the wake of the unabated Covid-19 pandemic, the PDM opposition alliance is all set to stage its final power show in Lahore on Sunday.

T h e p o w e r s h o w, dubbed as ‘first phase’ of the Pakistan Democratic Movement’s anti-government campaign, will take place at the city’s Minar-iPakistan, reports The Express Tribune.

The alliance is expected to announce the second phase of its campaign at today’s rally, which will be addressed by its convener and Jamiat Ulema IslamFazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz and Paki-

Mansour bought life insurance before US strike killed him Pro-gov’t forces kill 12 ISLAMABAD, DEC 13 (PTI): Slain Afghan Taliban chief Mullah Akhtar Mansour purchased a life insurance policy using a fake identity in Pakistan and paid Rs 3 lakh in premium before being killed in a US drone attack, according to a media report on Sunday.

Mansour, who was killed in a US drone strike along the Pakistan-Iran border on May 21, 2016, assumed the leadership of the Taliban in July 2015, replacing its founder and the one-eyed reclusive longtime spiritual head Mullah Mohammad Omar who died in 2013.

The details about the insurance policy were revealed during the hearing of a terror funding case against him and his absconding accomplices on Saturday.

Mullah Akhtar Mansour

The insurance company provided this information to an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Karachi during the hearing of the case registered against Mansour and his accomplices by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) last year, Dawn news reported.

It emerged during the investigation that the Taliban leader and his accomplices were involved in generating funds for

terrorist activities through the purchase of properties on the basis of “forged identities”.

He had purchased five properties including plots and houses, estimated to be valued at Rs 32 million (USD 1,99,812) in Karachi.

The report said that it surfaced during the investigation that Mullah Akhtar Mansour had purchased the “life insurance” policy by using a fake identity and had paid up to Rs 300,000 to the company before his death in the drone attack on May 21, 2016.

While showing willingness to return the principal amount that he had paid, the insurance company had presented a cheque worth Rs 300,000 to the investigators for depositing it to the court so that the amount could be deposited

in the government treasury, the report quoted sources as saying.

“However, the FIA investigators returned the cheque asking the company to pay the principal amount along with the premium so that the whole amount could be deposited to the government treasury,” they said.

On Saturday, the insurance company deposited a cheque worth Rs 350,000 with the court, which had on September 24 ordered the company to deposit the amount paid by the slain Taliban leader for his life insurance policy.

Also, on a court directive, a property owned by Mullah Mansour in Karachi was auctioned for Rs 92,00,000 and the amount deposited with the court for depositing it in the government treasury, they said.

Houthi rebels in Yemen

SANAA, DEC 13 (IANS): Forces loyal to Yemen’s gover nment announced killing 12 fighters of the Houthi rebel group in the country’s southern province of Dhalea. A statement released by the pro-government forces on Saturday stated that “military units carried out an operation against a number of Houthicontrolled sites in Dhalea’s northeastern part”, Xinhua news agency reported.

The pro-government military units engaged in armed confrontations with the Houthis, leaving around 12 rebels killed in the area, the statement said.

Several Houthi rebels were injured during the pro-government military operation that lasted for hours, it added. Military vehicles and medium weapons belonging to the Houthi rebel group were seized by

the pro-government forces, according to the statement.

No information, however, was given about casualties among the soldiers of the pro-government troops during the exchange of fire with the Houthis in Dhalea.

Last year, the Irana llied Houthi fig hters launched a series of intense armed attacks on the positions of the Yemeni government forces and succeeded in seizing key areas on the outskirts of Dhalea.

The areas in the north and west of Dhalea have been witnessing non-stop fighting between government forces and Houthi fighters for about four years. Yemen has been plagued by a civil war since late 2014 when Houthi militias forced the internationally-recognized government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi into exile.

stan Peoples’ Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, among other opposition leaders.

Sunday’s rally comes despite PDM leaders being issued security threat alerts as well as being requested by the federal government to not hold public gatherings as the country was amidst an intensifying second wave of the pandemic.

Addressing reporters on Saturday, Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar warned the opposition of necessary action being taken if laws were violated.

Crowds of PDM supporters started gathering at the historic venue since Saturday night night, while many coming in from other cities had begun assembling at the various interchanges leading to Lahore early Sunday morning, said The

Express Tribune report.

Sunday’s rally comes five days after the PDM announced on December 8 that all parliamentarians belonging to its constituent parties would submit their resignations from the national and provincial assemblies December 31 in a last-ditch attempt against the incumbent Imran Khanled government.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) also announced that by-elections would be held if the National Assembly speaker accepted the resignations of the opposition lawmakers from the lower house of parliament.

The PDM has been holding public rallies across Pakistan without permission from district authorities to hold them in the wake of the current Covid-19 situation.

OFFICE OF THE

HIGHWAY AREA SUMI STUDENTS' UNION DIMAPUR - 797112 : NAGALAND

Motto: "Inregrity with Progress"

FELICITATION

The Highway Area Sumi Students' Union would like to convey our profound congratulations to the following individuals for their achievements in their respective fields.

1. Mr. Kugha H. Chishi, S/o Dr. Hotokhu, resident of Valley View for being appointed as Junior Engineer under PHED and clearing Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) Exam 2019.

2. Miss S. Atolimi Sumi, D/o V. Shikuto Achumi, resident of Unity Village for securing 48th rank and clearing the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2020 for MBBS 3. Miss Lovika V Yepthomi, D/o T. Vitoho Yeptho, resident of Toluvi Village for qualifying as Assistant Professor and clearing the National Testing Agency 2020.

HASSU wishes them the best and greater success in their future endeavours.

Kitoka Sumi Mughato A. Aye President General Secretary

DP-5534

Members of Khalistani separatists vandalising the statue of Mahatma Gandhi during a protest in US.

by hooligans masquerading as protesters against the universally respected icon of peace and justice,” it said in a statement.

The Embassy said it has lodged a strong protest with the US law enforcement agencies and has also taken up the matter with the Department of State for an early investigation and action against the culprits under the applicable law.

The Washington DC Police and Secret Services had a sizeable presence when all this happened Saturday afternoon.

Around half-an-hour later, another group of pro-Khalistani supporters hung a dummy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s picture with a rope around the neck of the statue.

After more than an hour, a secret service agent was seen coming near the statue and apparently telling the youths that they were violating the law by indulging in vandalism.

On June 26, President Donald Trump had signed an executive order, according to which an individual can be imprisoned for up to 10 years for destroying, damaging, vandalising, or desecrating a monument, memorial, or statue within the United States or otherwise vandalises government property.

Infotainment

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Blue plot comeback for 2021

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lue are plotting a comeback in 2021.

Duncan James, Lee Ryan, Simon Webbe and Antony Costa are keen to reunite for the band’s 20th anniversary next year, and they’re aeager to get plans in motion as soon as the coronavirus crisis eases.

Duncan, 42, told The

Sun on Sunday newspaper: “I’d like to think we’ll reform again.

“We were wanting to do something for our 20th anniversary but at the moment lockdown has meant it’s been difficult to get together. It’s not been easy.

“There could be

something in the pipeline as we’re really good mates.”

The members of the band have all explored solo projects since first finding fame. But they’re now keen to mark the group’s anniversary in 2021.

A source explained: “While they’ve gone off

Robots can encourage people to take greater risks

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ven as the scale of interaction between humans and technology increases, a new research has shown that people tend to take more risks when prodded by a robot.

The research, published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, showed that robots can encourage people to take greater risks in a simulated gambling scenario than they would if there was nothing to influence their behaviours.

The researcher now believe that further studies are needed to see whether similar results would emerge from human interaction with other artificial intelligence (AI) systems, such as digital assistants or onscreen avatars.

“On the one hand, our results might raise alarms about the prospect of robots causing harm by increasing

risky behaviour,” said Yaniv Hanoch, Associate Professor in Risk Management at the University of Southampton in Britain.

“On the other hand, our data points to the possibility of using robots and AI in preventive programmes, such as anti-smoking campaigns in schools, and with hard to reach populations, such as addicts.”

This research involved 180 undergraduate students taking the Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART), a computer assessment that asks participants to press the spacebar on a keyboard to inflate a balloon displayed on the screen.

With each press of the spacebar, the balloon inflates slightly, and 1 penny is added to the player’s “temporary money bank”.

The balloons can explode randomly, meaning the player loses any money

and done individual things, Blue will always have a special place in all of the hearts of the members of the band.

“They feel really proud that they have stood the test of time and many of their songs are still played on the radio now. Getting to a huge milestone like their 20th anniversary is not something that they could allow to pass by without celebration. “ T h e y a r e r e a l ly proud of what they have achieved.”

Blue are looking to create an “extravaganza” when they reunite next year.

The insider added: “Fans will have to wait and see whether they will release new music or not but with such a hit-packed back catalogue in their locker it’s not something the band are feeling pressured about making a decision on yet.

“They know they have a loyal fanbase who they love to entertain so it’s safe to say it’s going to be a Blue extravaganza in 2021.”

(Contactmusic)

Anna Kendrick’s Twitter account gets hacked

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ctress Anna Kendrick became the latest victim of social media hacking as her official Twitter account was hacked for a brief period, and posted a series of offensive tweets.

On Saturday, starting around 5:26 p.m., a series of tweets were sent out to Kendrick’s over 7 million followers using offensive language and racial slurs, reports hollywoodreporter.com.

There were approximately thirty tweets. Additionally, the website on the account was changed to “Thug.org”.

The posts caught the attention of social media users, who started commenting that Kendrick’s account was compromised. The “Pitch Perfect” actor’s Instagram account was unaffected.

After almost an hour, the tweets were deleted and the website on Kendrick’s account reverted back to the page for her paperback book of personal essays, titled “Scrappy Little Nobody”.

Later, Kendrick’s representative confirmed that the account was hacked, and has now been secured.

(IANS)

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

Country singer Charley Pride dies from coronavirus at 86

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frican-American countr y singer C h a r l e y P r i d e, whose No. 1 country hits included “All I Have to Offer You (Is Me)” and “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin,’” died on Saturday at age 86 of complications from COVID-19, according to his website.

Pride, who died in Dallas, was not the first Black artist to make important contributions to country music, but he was a trailblazer who emerged during a time of division and rancor. Between 1967 and 1987, Pride delivered 52 Top 10 country hits, won Grammy awards and became RCA Records’ top-selling country artist, according to the website.

“We’re not color blind yet, but we’ve advanced a few paces along the path and I like to think I’ve contributed something to that process,” Pride wrote in his memoir.

The Mississippi native picked cotton, served in the U.S. Army and played baseball in the Negro league before moving to Nashville, becoming the first Black

country star. He joined the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000, Rolling Stone magazine said.

“I’m so heartbroken that one of my dearest and oldest friends, Charley Pride, has passed away,” country music star Dolly Parton said on Twitter.

“It’s even worse to know that he passed away from COVID-19. What a horrible, horrible virus. Charley, we will always love you.”

Pride’s final performance came on Nov. 11, 2020, when he sang his hit “Kiss An Angel Good Mornin’” during the Coun-

tr y Music Association Award show at Nashville’s Music City Center.

Pride was bor n in Sledge, Mississippi, on March 18, 1934 to a sharecropper. After enlisting in the Army, he worked at a Missouri smelting plant.

Pride then played for the Memphis Red Sox and Birmingham Black Barons in the Negro League before heading in 1963 to Nashville where he made demonstration recordings.

Fo u r ye a r s l a t e r, Pride’s recording of “Just Between You and Me” broke into country’s Top Ten. He went on to win the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year award in 1971, its top male vocalist prize in 1971 and 1972 and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020.

“Charley Pride will always be a legend in Country music. He will truly be missed but will always be remembered for his great music, wonderful personality and his big heart,” country music star Reba McEntire said on Twitter.

(Reuters)

Actor Shia LaBeouf accused of abuse by ex-girlfriend FKA twigs

they have won for that balloon and they have the option to “cash-in” before this happens and move on to the next balloon.

One-third of the participants took the test in a room on their own (the control group), one third took the test alongside a robot that only provided them with the instructions but was silent the rest of the time and the final, the experimental group, took the test with the robot providing instruction as well as speaking encouraging statements such as “why did you stop pumping?”

The results showed that the group who were encouraged by the robot took more risks, blowing up their balloons significantly more frequently than those in the other groups did.

They also earned more money overall. There was no significant difference in the behaviours of the students accompanied by the silent robot and those with no robot. “We saw participants in the control condition scale back their risk-taking behaviour following a balloon explosion, whereas those in the experimental condition continued to take as much risk as before,” Hanoch said.

“So, receiving direct encouragement from a riskpromoting robot seemed to override participants’ direct experiences and instincts.”

(IANS)

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ritish musician FKA twigs on Friday filed a lawsuit against actor Shia LaBeouf, accusing him of physical and emotional abuse during their year-long relationship.

The civil lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, seeks unspecified damages for alleged sexual battery, assault and emotional distress. It was filed under FKA twigs birth name, Tahliah Barnett.

Representatives of LaBeouf, 34, a former child star who dated the singer for about a year in 2018 and 2019, did not respond to a request for comment on Friday.

In a statement to the New York Times, which broke the story, LaBeouf said, “I’m not in any position to tell anyone how my behavior made them feel.

I have no excuses for my alcoholism or aggression, only rationalizations. I have been abusive to myself and everyone around me for years. I have a history of hurting the people clos-

est to me. I’m ashamed of that history and am sorry to those I hurt. There is nothing else I can really say.”

Barnett met LaBeouf while appearing in his 2019 semi-autobiog raphical

film “Honey Boy” about a young actor’s dysfunctional early years.

T h e l aw s u i t s ay s LaBeouf “engaged in a continuous stream of verbal and mental abuse toward Tahliah, belittling

her and berating her after the slightest perceived ‘insult’.”

It said that on one occasion in February 2019, the actor slammed Barnett against a car and tried to strangle her.

She also accuses LaBeouf of knowingly giving her a sexually transmitted disease.

Bar nett’s attor ney Freedman said in a statement that Barnett initially wanted to resolve the matter privately on condition the actor agree to receive “meaningful and consistent psychological treatment”.

“Since he was unwilling to agree to get appropriate help, Ms. Barnett filed this suit to prevent others from unknowingly suffering similar abuse by him,” Freedman said.

LaBeouf found fame as a Disney Channel star on “Even Stevens” and later appeared in movies including “Transformers” and “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.”

The past decade has seen several run-ins with the law for disorderly conduct, drunk driving and anger management issues.

LaBeouf sought treatment for alcoholism in 2014 and 2017.

(Reuters)

Ajaz Khan’s video song tribute to motherhood crosses 3mn views

K Y M C

I am really glad our song has been getting a really positive response from the audience.” On his upcoming projects, Ajaz said: “I am doing a play on the subject of mother-son relationship and a short film named ‘Maa Calling’. When a per-

son loses his or her mother, he or she never gets a call from their mother on their mobile phones, and that’s a storyline of my short film.

I am trying to present emotions that Bollywood has forgotten over a period of time.”

(IANS)

OFFICE OF THE

UNITY VILLAGE SUMI STUDENTS' UNION DIMAPUR, NAGALAND

FELICITATION

The Unity Village Sumi Students' Union would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Miss S. Atolimi Sumi, D/o V. Shikuto Achumi of Unity Village for securing 48th rank and clearing the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2020 for MBBS. UVSKK wishes her the best and greater success in her future endeavours.

Enok Chishi President

Mughato A. Aye General Secretary

DP-5533

A

ctor Ajaz Khan features in the music video Ohh Maa, and the song has garnered over three million views within two days of release. Ajaz says he is also making a short film titled Maa Calling, which presents emotions that Bollywood has forgotten.

“I haven’t acted at all while making this song. I just remembered the good times I shared with my mother and that made me emotional. I think we should respect and love our mother.

There is nothing bigger in this world than having your mother by your side.,” said Ajaz. He added: “If you are living with your mother then you should feel fortunate.

I feel sad that my mother passed away two years ago.

I have made this song to pay tribute to my mother and all the mothers in this world.

DP-5450

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Southampton beat Sheffield to go third SOUTHAMPTON, DEC 13 (AGENCIES): Southampton striker Che Adams scored against his former club, and midfielders Stuart Armstrong and Nathan Redmond struck after the interval as they beat Premier League strugglers Sheffield United 3-0 at St Mary’s Stadium on Sunday to go third in the table.

Southampton dominated possession and went ahead on 34 minutes as the Blades failed to properly deal with a James WardProwse free kick and Adams reacted quickest to tap home his fourth league goal of the season in front of 2,000 supporters.

Armstrong doubled the home side’s lead in the second half with a low shot that gave Blades goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale no chance as it took a big deflection off defender Phil Jagielka and rolled into the net.

Substitute Redmond scored his first goal of the season seven minutes from time with a side-footed finish

Southampton players celebrate after winning against Sheffield United on Sunday.

following an exchange with midfielder Oriol Romeu to heap the pressure on Chris Wilder’s bottom-placed side.

“It was important to get that breakthrough early on. The first few minutes of the second half were a bit difficult, but we found our feet and deserved the win.

The Blades’ 11th defeat of the campaign makes them the first team since Queens Park Rangers in 2012 to be without a win after 12 Premier League matches, and pressure is

mounting on manager Wilder to arrest their slide. Ralph Hasenhuettl’s Southampton climbed to third in the table behind leaders Tottenham

Hotspur and Liverpool with 23 points from 12 games ahead of a potentially tricky clash at Arsenal on Wednesday.

Chelsea lose at Everton as Manchester derby ends in stalemate

Chelsea’s 17-match unbeaten run came to an end with a 1-0 defeat at Everton, while the Manchester derby between United and City ended goalless in the Premier League on Saturday. The results leave Tottenham Hotspur top of the

table on 24 points level with Liverpool.

Chelsea hoped to grab first place, for 24 hours at least, but a first-half penalty

by Iceland’s Gylfi Sigurdsson gave Everton victory on the return of 2,000 fans at Goodison Park.

Splash Brothers win Chetheba Basketball tournament DIMAPUR,Dec 13 (NPN): Splash Brothers from Thenyizu village defeated hosting team Hümewsü in the final match to emerge as the champions of the first season Basketball tournament held at Chetheba Town local ground under Phek district on Sunday.

In an exciting final match, Splash Brothers outclassed Hümewsü by 3524 points. Aveto Resu was declared as the most valuable player for men’s category. The Mix lost against Hümewsü in the semi-finals and B Ballers fall short against Splash Brothers in semis,

11

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

stated a press release issued by Team Hümewsü.

For women’s basketball, Lady Ballers from Chetheba edge passed Rimshots by 12-2 points in the final match to take the title. Ravolu Nyekha was adjudged the most valuable player of the tournament for women’s category. The two-day tournament was organised by Hümewsü, a group of young enthusiast from Chetheba with the motive to promote friendship through sports. Owing to the pandemic, the group also expressed their regret

to host their tournament in a bigger platform for other district to participate in the tournament. The team hoped to host open tournament in the coming years with the new normal.

A total of 10 teams participated for men’s category, while five teams for women’s category of a two-day basketball championship.

It may be mentioned that the first customized iron board for basketball court at Chetheba was inaugurated September 15 this year, dubbed as the lockdown project.

Vikehielie Suohu is FTC 2nd Darts Masters champion DIMAPUR, DEC 13 (NPN): Vikehielie Suohu emerged as the Champion of the Fun Tree Crew (FTC) 2nd Darts Masters 2020 which was held at Vivid Lounge, Kohima, on December 12. Altogether, 24 participants took part from Kohima and Dimapur.

The champion Vikehielie Suohu walked away with cash worth Rs. 20000/-, a trophy and certificate. The runner-up Lijathung Humtsoe pocketed cash worth Rs. 10000/- with trophy and a certificate. Neiketou Suohu and Burakum Ao were awarded joint 3rd with cash, trophies and certificates. Best Leg was awarded to Vikehelie Suohu; Highest Scorer - Killen Jamir; Highest Check Out - Neiketou Suohu; Most Promising Player - Reagan Sandham; Golden Darts Award - Lanu Pongen. First player to register online for the FTC 2nd Darts Masters 2020 was Yashilemba Longkumer, who also received a special gift hamper worth Rs. 2000/-. Fun Tree Crew has encouraged the young Nagas to take up this gentleman sport which is taking the players to national and international events.

Fun Tree Crew informed that for the 3rd edition, it will plan to make the event bigger and more grandeur giving the players a bigger platform. Meanwhile, the FTC (organizers) has expressed gratitude to the sponsors of the event who helped in the form of materials and cash.

Phek girls football coaching camp ends

The participants along with the coaches and DA & DLCW MSK Phek team after receiving the certificates on Saturday.

DIMAPUR, DEC 13 (NPN): A five-day long football coaching camp 2020 for girls under “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” concluded at Phek Town local ground on Saturday. All the necessary COVID precautions and SOPs were followed throughout the training camp.

DA & DLCW MSK Phek in a press release informed that more than 120 participants turned up to avail free coaching camp organised and supported by Phek District Administration & DLCWMahila Shakti Kendra, Nagaland Football Coaches Association(NFCA) and DEF, Phek with the theme “develop your skills with us”.

District administration assured that under BBBP, more such training programmes will be conducted sub-division wise in the near future.

Six AIFF ‘D’ license coaches and a women coach with a bachelor of Physical Education imparted training to the girls during the weeklong camp.

BBBP scheme is to support gender equality and the district administra-

tion has been making efforts in various sectors like health, skill development and sports to ensure the girl children have all round personality development.

On the last day of the training camp, exhibition matches were played on different age categories for U-9, U-13, U-16 & 17 above. During the closing ceremony, all the participants were presented with certificates, football boots and BBBP logo t-shirt.

Certificate of merit were awarded to most promising players in different age categories. For Under-6 - Lunulu Rhakho, Under -13 - Swuyevelu Rhakho, Under -16 - Hukulu Keyho and Under-17 - Vebuno Keyho.

Phek DC Sachin Jaiswal, in his short address appreciated the team for organising such a camp to mould the talent at a tender age. He emphasised on imparting grassroots training adding that there are potentials among the youth of the district which has to be channelized in the right direction.

He said the coaching camp will be a stepping stone for the young kids and

hoped that the participants would keep working hard and focus on their goals, and with more government support, he hoped the district can have more such camps.

He said the coaching was not only imparted to girls but also the boys below the age of 16. Observing the potentials in the young kids, the DC pointed out that they can play at a professional level and compete at state and national level if they are provided with right opportunity.

SDO(C ) & Nodal Officer BBBP, Phek N Bhavani Sri, motivated the kids to have discipline, practice consistently and encouraged them to aim to play at national level.

She also added gender equality can’t be achieved without empowering and providing self confidence to the girls for which sports is a priority area.

ACI Football Academy Manipur coach and AIFF D license coach Lavoriyi Theluo sharing his experiences said the camp was very challenging as this was the first time, all the participants are undergoing such organised training.

K-2029

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

Bengaluru beat Kerala Blasters 4-2 in ISL Verstappen wins season finale in Abu Dhabi PANAJI/BAMBOLIM, DEC 13 (AGENCIES): Bengaluru picked up crucial three points on Sunday as they beat rivals Kerala Blasters 4-2 in an Indian Super League (ISL) at the Fatorda Stadium, Goa. Cleiton Silva (29’), Erik Paartalu (51’), Dimas Delgado (53’) and Sunil Chhetri (63’) were on target for the Blues while Rahul KP (17’) and Vicente Gomez (61’) scored for Kerala Blasters.

Carles Cuadrat made two changes to the Bengaluru lineup. Pratik Choudhary made his debut for the club replacing Rahul Bheke and Kristian Opseth returned to the starting eleven in place of Deshorn Brown.

Kibu Vicuna made four changes as Jordan Murray, Lalruatthara, Prasanth Karuthadathkuni and Jeakson Singh replaced Costa Nhamoinesu, Jessel Carneiro, Rohit Kumar and Nongdamba Naorem. Murray joined Hooper upfront as the coach tweaked the formation to a 4-4-2.

Jordan Murray got the

Match in progress between Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters on Sunday.

first chance of the match to break the deadlock in the 14th minute when he picked up Facundo Pereyra’s pass on the right side of the box.

An alert Gurpreet Singh Sandhu saved his shot at the near post.

Blasters scored the opening goal against the run of play in the 17th minute. Dimas Delgado’s short free-kick was intercepted by Garry Hooper who covered

almost the full length of the pitch starting from his own penalty box and found Rahul KP to his right who scored past Gurpreet with an excellent finish.

Bengaluru responded with an equaliser within 12 minutes as Cleiton Silva capitalised on a howler from Ruathhara and found the back of the net. The Mizo defender failed to clear a long goal-kick from Sandhu

inside his own box and Silva was quick to punish him.

The Blues were the more dominant side in the first half and created more goal scoring chances than their opponents. Blasters looked lacklustre and shaky after conceding the goal.

NE united continue unbeaten run

Nor thEast United managed to grab only a

point but extended their unbeaten run in the 2020/21 Indian Super League (ISL) as they played a 0-0 draw with Chennaiyin FC at Tilak Maidan Stadium on Sunday.

With 10 points alongside ATK Mohun Bagan, NorthEast are placed second in the ISL table while Chennaiyin FC have now failed to pick up a win in their last four matches.

They made three changes to the side as Idrissa Sylla started upfront ahead of Kwesi Appiah. Meanwhile, Chennaiyin made two changes to their line-up with Anirudh Thapa among the substitutes.

The first-half was a goalless affair. Chennaiyin shaded possession but both sides lacked the cutting edge in the final third. NorthEast keeper Gurmeet Singh was called into action early on as Chennaiyin created a chance as early as the first minute.

ABU DHABI, DEC 13 (AGENCIES): Max Verstappen ended a frustrating season for Red Bull on a high with victory in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The Dutchman took his second win of the year ahead of Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas and Lewis Hamilton, who were unable to challenge in second and third.

An early safety car locked in the strategies of the leaders and led to a soporific race.

McLaren took third

Max Verstappen

in the constructors’ championship as Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz took fifth and sixth.

The prize for overhauling Racing Point

- who started the race 10 points ahead but for whom Lance Stroll could finish only 10th as teammate Sergio Perez retired early on - is in the region of $10m (£7.5m) of prize money.

Red Bull’s Alexander Albon was fourth, 20 seconds behind teammate Verstappen but close enough to the Mercedes to block any adventurous strategy choices, as the team weigh up whether to retain the British-Thai driver for 2021.

Monday’s Match Mumbai City Vs Jamshedpur Time: 7:30 PM

Joshua KOs Pulev to retain heavyweight titles, eyes Fury next LO N D O N, D E C 1 3 ( AG E N C I E S ) : Wo r l d heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua produced a devastating finish to knock out Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev near the end of the ninth round to retain his IBF, WBO and WBA belts at Wembley Arena on Saturday. The 31-year-old Briton had looked close to winning when he floored Pulev in the third round but the challenger recovered to test the home favourite in front of a limited crowd of 1,000. But Anthony Joshua in action against Kubrat Pulev during the there was no escape for the Heavyweight World Title Fight in London, Dec. 12. (Reuters)

challenger in the ninth round as Joshua landed a clubbing right upper-cut which sent Pulev to the canvas. The 39-year-old got up but Joshua connected with another straight right hand to end the contest.

The champion’s 24th win from 25 professional fights sets up the prospect of a mouth-watering unification clash next year with fellow Briton Tyson Fury who holds the WBC belt. “I stuck to what I know best, looking at where I’m going to put my shots,” Joshua said at ring-

side. “When they are successful they are successful. It’s less talk and more action.”

Asked about fighting Fury, Joshua put the question to the audience: “Who wants to see Anthony Joshua fight Tyson Fury in 2021,” he said, to which the crowd roared their approval.

The 32-year-old Fury, whose brother Hughie was fighting on the undercard, was quick to respond on Twitter. “I want the fight, I want the fight next, I’ll knock him out inside three rounds,” he said.

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