December 21, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 19

DIMAPUR, MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020 Pages 12 ` 5.00

Spurs’ title hopes suffer further blow with damaging defeat sports, Page 12

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Nepal PM Oli gets Parl dissolved international, Page 9

shopping heightens New coronavirus mutant out of control Frenzied concern of COVID-19 surge

LO N D O N, D E C 2 0 (AGENCIES): U.K. Health Secretary Matt Hancock warned the new mutant strain of the coronavirus is “out of control” and suggested parts of England will be stuck in the new highest tier of restrictions until a vaccine is rolled out.

More than 16 million Britons are now required to stay at home as a lockdown came into force Sunday in London and southeast England and the government scrapped plans to relax rules on socializing at Christmas in an attempt to control the fast-spreading new variant of the virus. The measures ban household mixing in the capital and the southeast, and restrict socializing to just Christmas Day across the rest of England.

Residents across the country were told to keep to their local areas.

“Cases have absolutely rocketed, so we’ve got a long way to go,” Hancock told Sky’s Sophy Ridge on Sunday program. “I think it will be very difficult to keep it under control until the vaccine has rolled out.”

People in the new so-called Tier 4 areas “should behave as though they have it,” he

Centre calls for emergency meet today Staff Reporter

Health information advertisement highlights new restrictions in London, December 19. (Reuters)

said. Johnson had originally planned to ease pandemic rules for five days during the holiday, but made an abrupt change of tack after emergency talks on the virus mutation with his top officials.

A number of European countries have banned flights from the UK as the British government warned that the potent new strain of the virus was “out of control” and imposed a stringent new stay-at-home lockdown from Sunday.

Emerging scientific evidence suggests the new variant-- which Hancock said has also appeared in Australia and continental Europe-- can spread significantly more quickly than previous strains in

circulation and is behind a huge surge in infections in recent days.

Most Sunday newspapers carried stories of people cancelling Christmas plans. Conservative member of Parliament Mark Harper, who represents a caucus that opposes lockdown measures, urged the government to summon lawmakers from their vacation so a vote can be held. Hancock said that a vote will happen in January. “We made the commitment not knowing that there was going to be a new variant that spreads so much faster,” Hancock said, of the original plans. He said there is “no evidence” the new strain-- VUI-202012/01-- is milder than the original virus.

Union Health Ministry has called for an emergency meeting of its Joint Monitoring Group on Monday to discuss the emergence of a mutated variant of the coronavirus in the UK, which has led to a surge in the infection rate there.

“The Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) chaired by DG of Health Services will hold a meeting on Monday morning to discuss the issue of the mutated variant of the coronavirus reported from the UK. WHO’s India representative Dr Roderico H Ofrin, a member of the JMG, is likely to participate in the meeting,” a source told PTI.

COVID-19 linked ‘black fungus infection’ appears across Delhi IANS adds: The cases of rare ‘black fungus infection’ linked with COVID-19 have started to appear across the hospitals in the national capital after being highlighted

by Ganga Ram hospital a few days ago.

However, doctors said this alarming affliction called Mucormycosis is rare but not new. What is new is the impact of COVID behind triggering this deadly infection.

Max Superspeciality hospital in Delhi has reported as many as 24 cases amid the COVID pandemic. Sanjay Sachdeva, Principal Director of ENT, Max hospital, told IANS that all these patients had COVID-19 while 20 of them lost their eyesight. Sachdeva observed that COVID is also somehow aggrieving the fungal infection.

Sonali Malhotra, Senior resident, ENT, at Centre-run Lady Hardinge Medical College, told IANS that in the last one-and-a-half months, at least five cases were reported in the hospital. Of them, three were COVID-linked.

As per doctors, Mucormycosis has been a cause of disease and death in transplants, ICU and Immunodeficient individuals since long, however, it is the rapid increase in numbers seen in unsuspected COVID patients which is matter of grave concern.

DIMAPUR, DEC 20 (NPN): With Christmas around the corner, people throng markets in a frenzied last-minute shopping and throwing all SOP guidelines to the wind. Even roads were clogged with traffic.

The frenzied shopping also indicated that the ban on Sunday shopping evoked poor response. Most of the shoppers came from peripheral areas of Dimapur as well as from other rural areas.

With hundreds coming to shop daily from other far flung areas, there has been considerable concern of hastening spread of COVID-19 to rural areas where health care system is woefully inadequate. A large number of shoppers had practically dispensed with wearing face mask, among the most essential protection against spread of COVID. It may also be recalled that on Saturday, the state Health & Family Welfare department expressed alarm that the “State was at risk of widespread community transmission” as many were not following the COVID-19 appropriate behaviours.

A scene of New Market area, Dimapur on Sunday. (NP)

Further the H&FW department has also warned that December/winter month and the festive season was crucial for containing the spread of the virus. It had also said that Nagaland was “witnessing events and social gatherings on an alarming scale.”

A senior medical practitioner told this reporter that after months of taking precautions, people’s general attitude towards COVID guidelines has become lackadaisical. He said many who are asymptomatic don’t realise the danger of ignoring

COVID-19 SOPs. The doctor expressed concern that such asymptomatic persons, mostly young people, could be inadvertently spreading the virus to the higher risk groups and those with comorbidity.

Fearing surge in Covid19 spread amid high footfalls in the market places during the festive season in the country, the Health ministry on December 2 issued Standard operating Procedures (SOPs) on the preventive and precautionary measures to be followed to contain the spread of virus.

First COVID-19 Farmers to go on 24-hr relay hunger strike vaccine shot likely

NEW DELHI, DEC 20 (PTI): Intensifying their agitation against the Centre’s new agri laws, farmers on Sunday announced that they will observe a day-long relay hunger strike on Monday at all sites of protest here and halt toll collection on highways in Haryana from December 25 to 27.

Thousands of farmers, mainly from Punjab and Haryana, are protesting against the laws for the last over four weeks at various border points of Delhi and demanding that the legislations be repealed.

“Farmers will begin a day-long relay hunger strike on Monday at all sites of protest against the new agri laws. It will be started by a team of 11 members at protests sites here, including the Singhu border,” Swaraj India Chief Yogendra Yadav said and added that “we appeal to everyone at all protest sites across the nation to participate in the same”.

“Protesters are being threatened by the Haryana government. This is against the direction of the Supreme Court. I urge them to stop harassing farmers from tomorrow,” he said at a press conference at the DelhiHaryana Singhu border.

The Supreme Court on Thursday had said that the farmers agitation should be allowed to continue “without impediment” and this court will not “interfere” with it as the right to protest is a fundamental right. It had also put a sole caveat that there should not be any breach of peace either by farmers or police.

While announcing the next move by protesting farmers after their hunger strike, farmer leader Jagjeet Singh Dalewala said farmers will halt toll collection on highways in Haryana from December 25 to 27.

“From December 25 to 27 all toll booths in Haryana will not be allowed by us to

collect toll, we will halt them from doing so. On December 27, our Prime Minister will say his ‘Mann ki baat’ and we want to appeal to people to beat ‘thalis’ during his address,” Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader said.

Farmer leader and senior BKU member Rakesh Tikait, who was also part of the press conference, said that farmers protesting the new agri laws will celebrate Kisan Diwas on December 23 and “we request people to not cook lunch for a day”.

Centre invites for talks

The Centre on Sunday sent out an invite to the farmers’ unions for join discussion with the government again and asked them to fix the date of the meeting at Vigyan Bhavan according to their convenience.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who was in West Bengal, indicated that talks will resume soon.

in Jan: Vardhan

NEW DELHI, DEC 20 ( AG E N C I E S ) : U n i o n Health minister Harsh Vardhan said on Sunday that people of the country could get a Covid-19 shot in January. His remarks come days after the health ministry released a document, answering public queries on vaccination.

“Our first priority has been safety and effectiveness of vaccines. We don’t want to compromise on that. I personally feel, maybe in any week of January, we can be in a position to give first Covid vaccine shot to people of India,” news agency ANI quoted Vardhan as saying.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) is examining the applications of Bharat Biotech, Serum Institute of India (SII) and Pfizer to grant emergency use authorisation for their Covid-19 vaccines.

CBSE to announce exams’ schedule on December 22

Nagaland COVID-19 tally 11842

NEW DELHI, DEC 20 (IANS): The schedule of Central Board of Secondary Education exams for Classes 10 and 12 proposed to be held next year through the paper-pen mode is likely to be announced on Tuesday, official sources said.

COVID-19 STATUS AS ON december 20, 2020

This is it!

District

Asymptomatic

Dimapur Kiphire Kohima Longleng Mokokchung Mon Peren Phek Tuensang

128 14 234 0 35 13 19 2 9

ACTIVE CASES Symptomatic Death MiRecovunder Critical-ICU Death gratInvestiMod- Se- With- With On ered ed Mild gation erate vere out Oxy- VentiOxygen gen lator 19 5 3 0 0 1 6087 46 0 72 0 0 0 0 0 0 24 1 0 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 3398 21 0 27 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 9 4 1 1 0 0 0 116 1 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 579 2 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 479 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 44 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 234 1 0 0

Wokha

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

35

1

0

3

Zunheboto Total

0 454

0 27

0 10

0 4

0 0

0 0

0 1

139 0 11144 73

0 0

3 142 129 11842

Total Cases

6362 39 3687 18 164 603 498 46 244 39

*10 deaths not due to Covid-19 *0 deaths under investigation

“Higher ups want result.

They say our SIT is like Sitting Idle Team.”

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DIMAPUR, DEC 20 (NPN): Nagaland’s COVID19 tall rose to 11842 after one positive case was reported on Sunday in Phek.

The State also recorder the recovery of 43 patients, bringing down the number of active cases to 496.

Further, the distribu-

tion across various categories include 4641 cases from the armed forces/police, 1830 returnees, 4807 traced contacts and 564 frontline workers.

As on December 20, the number of people who recovered from infection stood at 11,101 and 129

patients have migrated to other states while the death toll was 73.

P T I a d d s : I n d i a ’s COVID-19 caseload rose to 1,00,31,223 with 26,624 new infections being reported in a day, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 95.80 lakh pushing the national recovery rate to 95.51 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.

The death toll increased to 1,45,477 with 341 new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 95,80,402 pushing the national recovery rate to 95.51 per cent, while the COVID-19 case fatality rate stands at 1.45 per cent. The COVID-19 active caseload remained below 4 lakh for the 14th consecutive day.

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2

state

NPP, BAGC celebrate advent Christmas

DIMAPUR: National People’s Party (NPP) Nagaland state and Bethesda AG Church (BAGC) Dimapur celebrated advent Christmas respectively on December 19 at Dimapur.

National People’s Party (NPP) Nagaland state: National People’s Party (NPP) Nagaland state celebrated advent Christmas at the Chekiye village residence of NPP Dimapur district unit president, Kasheto Yepthomi on December 19.

A press release by NPP Nagaland state IPR & media cell stated that, in his brief speech, Dr. Andrew Ahoto highlighted about the NPP as the only national party from the entire North East and encouraged the gathering to choose the leaders wisely even if they may not support a common party during the elections. He also enlightened the gathering that NPP was committed to bring the entire North East together for common growth and development while envisioning a goal for “One North East, one voice”. He further greeted everyone on the joyous and blessed occasion of Christmas and New Year on behalf of the entire rank and file of NPP Nagaland state. Kasheto Yepthomi shared his expe-

LSU 60th general WW II US Army camp memorial session held at Leshemi village plaque laid at Lozaphuhu village

Bethesda youth giving special performance at the pre-Christmas programme held on December 19.

riences about how he was encouraged to join the NPP being greatly motivated by the young and dynamic national president, Conrad Sangma, current chief minister of Meghalaya. He also shared his view that at present, the Nagas were suffering due to a leadership crisis and for which opportunists have willfully led to chaos and underdevelopment of infrastructure in the state including health care and roads, etc. Others who spoke included state women wing president, Yashila Ao, NPYF president Yanghori Sangtam and minority cell

(non-tribal) president, Juel Acharjee.

Earlier, programme was chaired by NPP Nagaland state general secretary (IPR) & media), Tohovi Achumi and invocation by state women wing president Alemla Ao. Dedication prayer was offered by NPP Nagaland state general secretary (org.), Limanuksung Longkumer.

BAGC: Bethesda AG Church (BAGC) celebrated pre-Christmas under the theme “Good tidings of great joy” on December 19, at Bethesda Celebration Centre, Dimapur.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

A press release by BAGC stated that, Christmas greetings were delivered by director, Peace Channel, Rev. Fr. Anto Paul, president, NCRA, Rev. Dr. N. Paphino, senior Os, DSBC, Rev. S. Vitoshe Swu and district superintendent Nagaland, AGEI Rev. Tusaya Kath.

Special songs, drama and choir were also presented by Bethesda youths a n d c h u r c h m e m b e r s, while benediction was pronounced by director, Golden Crown Theological College, Rev. Dr. Nzan Odyuo.

DIMAPUR: Leshemi Students’ Union (LSU) held its 60th general session under the theme “Inspire aspire achieve” on December 19, at Leshemi village, with Wekupe Losou, entrepreneur as guest speaker.

A press release

by Leshemi Students’ Union stated that, VDB secretary Leshemi village, Vikedou Thahu exhorted the gathering, while welcome song was presented by Leshemi Students’ Union executives. Presidential address was delivered

by Melute Lomi. Lt Medikhrü Meritorious Award was also awarded during the session. General secretary report was delivered by Khroteü Lasushe.

E a r l i e r, p r o gramme was chaired by Khroteü Lasushe and vote of thanks delivered by Wecheü Thahu.

Wekhrotso Sara was elected as the new president for the tenure 20212022, Welo Lasushe as vice president and Lhiwe Lomi as general secretary along with other office bearers.

Lozaphuhu villagers with head GB Vedusayi Rhakho and Rev. Kevengo-i Sakha at the programme on December 19.

DIMAPUR: WW II US Ar my camp memorial plaque was laid at Lozaphuhu village by the head GB, Vedusayi Rhakho in the presence of the villagers, wherein Rev. Kevengo-i Sakha dedicated on December 19.

A press release by the organizers stated that,

speaking on the occasion, Dr. Zhokusheyi Rhakho said that this was one of the few US Army camps during WW II in the then Naga Hills and the last one before entering Myanmar. He further said that this was a step to preserve the vital piece of historical information which has been lying em-

bedded in the oral history of the village. In addition, the official website of the Lozaphuhu Village Council was launched by the head GB, to make the information about the village accessible to anyone who might need it, like tourists, students, research scholars, government agencies and so forth.

Joint operation on NSU demand headmaster at GHS Noksen trafficking of pharma drugs DIMAPUR: Noksen Students’ Union (NSU) has appealed to the School Education department for a full fledged head master to take charge of one of the oldest Government High School (GHS) Noksen which was established in the year 1951 (NEFA).

An appeal to the principal director of School Education by NSU media cell, stated that GHS, Noksen was functioning without the head master (HM)

and asst. head master for more than 5 years and the teacher in-charge was taking charge of school for so many years. Pointing out that inspite of several appeals made by the union to the department, NSU stated that the government still continues to turn a deaf ear to its demand.

Union therefore demanded for the full fledged HM who can be physically present in the school before the next academic year.

Citing the need for proper administrative functioning, well-qualified and comprehensive teachers in any educational institution, the NSU stated that there will be no compromise until this matter was taken into serious consideration.

NSU further believe that the concerned authority will look into this matter with utmost urgency and sincerity as future of the present students was at stake.

news in Brief Officials from district administration, police, drug inspector and DBs with the seized items. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Wokha district administration along with Police and the drug inspector conducted joint operation on trafficking of pharma drugs within Wokha town on December 19.

According to DIPR report, the operation was done in response to the call of narcotic-control bureau,

MHA to observe anti-drug drive week, with effect from December 15 to 22.

During the drive, several bottles of cough syrup containing codeine phosphate were seized from different pharmacies. Accordingly, the defaulters have been forwarded to the competent authority for further necessary action.

MVCC informs on vehicular movement: Mount View Colony Council (MVCC) has informed general public that no vehicular movement would be allowed within the road stretch from Mount View Colony and Toluvi road junction till Mount View Colony and Model Colony boundary for a period of one month, from December 21 to January 21, 2021 due to ongoing road construction work. MVCC has sought cooperation and also expressed regret for the inconvenience.

ZYS golden jubilee: Zheri Youth Society (ZYS), Z. Khel, Viswema golden jubilee (1971-2021) will be held on January 5, 2021 at Yoho Kita, Viswema. ZYZ extended invitation to only one member from each family as representative. Attendees are to wear at least one traditional item for the programme.

KBC centenary celebrations: Kigwema Baptist Church (KBC) is observing its 100th year of Christianity (1920-2020) under the theme “Declare His Glory- Psalms 96:3” on December 26 and 27 at Kigwema Baptist Church. Centenary planning & core committee has informed that all COVID-19 SOPs laid down by the government will be followed throughout the celebration. It further advised senior citizens persons, children below 10 years and persons with co-morbid conditions to avoid attendance.

It also regretted that invitation has not been extended to other churches in the village and region in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

IETC conducts training on mushroom cultivation

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Hyderabad at SAMETI training hall Medziphema from December 14 to 19.

A press release by IETC stated that, training was moderated by agri officer IETC, Kikatemjen and key note address was given by principal IETC & director SAMETI, Dr. Watimongla Jamir. Vote of thanks was given by lecturer, IETC, Seyievielo Sono and vale-

dictory closing remark was delivered by Dr. Bendangmenla Tzudir, AI, IETC. Feedback was received from the trainees and certificates were distributed. Altogether 17 trainees attended the training along with the officers and staffs from IETC. Resource persons for the training were lecturers and officers from IETC and SAMETI.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

1st Death Anniversary of our beloved

LATE RAJKUMAR LAMA

Youth participants with resource persons and other officials.

DIMAPUR: Six-day skill training of r ural youth (STRY) on “mushroom cultivation” was organised by Integrated Extension Training Institute (IETC), Medziphema in collaboration with State Agricultural Management and Training Institute (SAMETI), Medziphema and National Institute of Ag ricultural Extension Management (MANAGE),

Minister of PHED, Jacob Zhimomi inaugurated the rostrum at Vihokhu Cultural Centre (Sumi Cultural Centre) in the presence of Dr. Kakheto Zhimomi on December 19. Presidents of Western Sumi Hoho, Western Sumi Kukami Hoho, Sumi GBs & area chairmen were also present. Minister dedicated the newly opened rostrum to all Sumi.

Lt. Mrs. Akali Kiho

(Died on 21-12-2019) From sunrise to sunset, every moment would have been more wonderful if you were here with us today.

We will always remember you with smile and laughter, honour your strength and resolve. Your love and sacrifices continue to inspire and guide us.

In our hearts you hold a place no one else will ever fill.

Missing you Deeply.

- Loving Husband, children, in-laws & grandchildren K-2088

(13.04.1958 - 13.12.2020) On the 13th of December 2020, we bid our farewell to Late Rajkumar Lama, who was always kind and loving as a husband, a father, a brother and a grandfather. Even in our extreme moment of grief and loss, we found solace in the fact that he was so much loved and adored by not only his family, but everyone who knew him, a testimony to the beautiful soul that he was.

Through this column, we wish to extend our special thanks to the following people and organisations:1. Shri. Nicky Kire , Honorable MLA & Advisor, Urban Development & Municipal Affairs Department.

2. Tamang Buddhist Association, Kohima.

3. Gorkha Public Panchayat Kohima.

4. Gorkha Singha Devi Mandir Committee.

5. Indreni Club, Upper Chandmari, Kohima 6. Kohima Gorkha Mahila Samithi 7. Doctors & nurses of Bethel Medical Centre, Kohima 8. Blood Donors.

9. The Officers & staff of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Service Department 10. The Officers & staff of Principal A.G., Nagaland.

11. The Officers & staff of M.T. Branch (PHQ), Nagaland.

12. Upper Chandmari Youth 13. Upper Chandmari Action Committee cum Task Force (Covid 19) We deeply regret our inability to thank each and everyone personally who stood by us physically & financially during his prolonged illness and sad demise but we pray that the Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

The family members of Late Rajkumar Lama will be performing the obsequies rites (Ghewa) on 23rd & 24th of Dec’2020 at their private residence in Upper Chandmari.

Well wishers and relatives of the departed soul may kindly pay the homage on the said date.

Loving Wife, Son, Daughters, Daughter-in-law, grand-children, brother, sisters, in-laws, kith & kin.

K-2090 K Y M C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Will people be willing to not hold festival gatherings due to COVID-19?

Thanksgiving for former LFS headmistress NEEPCO provides physiotherapy

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

A

B

A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

C

31% 69% 0%

Next poll

Q: Can COVID vaccine

also prevent the new COVID mutant from spreading?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST December 21

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sunshine

25 11

Aizawl

Pleasant with plenty of sun

Guwahati Hazy sunshine Imphal

Pleasant with plenty of sun

24 7 26 10 24 7

Itanagar Pleasant with sunshine

25 11

Shillong

Plenty of sun

19 4

Kohima

Beautiful with plenty of sun

21 7

Dimapur Nice with plenty of sun

Pleasant with plenty of sun

Mkg

Tuensang Plenty of sun Wokha

Delightful with sunshine

Zunheboto Plenty of sun

25 10 23 7 17 4 21 10 21 6

Sister Ivy with some of the LFS Kohima past pupils on December 20 at Mazzarello Home, Nagarjan, Dimapur. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Thanksgiving prayer programme was held in honour of Sister Ivy D’ Souza for the 60 years of religious profession in service to God for people of North East India as a Salesian nun of Don Bosco on December 20, at Mazzarello Study Home, Kuda, Nagarjan, Dimapur.

According to DIPR report, Sister Ivy in her speech thanked God for the 87 years of her life and the 60 years of religious profession since 1955 as a young teacher. Sister Ivy served in several parts of NE, like Kohima, Shillong, Assam and Manipur. She thanked the people of North East

for enriching her life, where she never regretted a single moment of coming and working for the people of North East India. Recalling her time and life spent with the past pupils of LFS, she commented, “You supported me and I helped you grow, I love you all very much.” She was the head mistress of Little Flower School (LFS) Kohima from 1974 to 1981 where she mentored, disciplined and moulded students with honest authority and many of whom have become assets for the society today.

Retired commissioner & secretary, Lithrongla Chishi, a 1977 batch student

SUMAN workshop in Peren district

Dr Neimetuonuo Kuotsu presenting a powerpoint during the workshop at DC office Peren on December 17.

DIMAPUR: District level workshop on SUMAN was conducted at DC conference hall, New Peren on December 17, attended by DC Sentiwapang Aier, ADC Jalukie Dr Tinujingshi, medical officers and representative from Social Welfare department.

A press release by CMO office district media officer, Pezanguno Celine Secü stated that, workshop was conducted by district programme officer UIP/RCH, Dr. Kiholi Asumi, DPM QA Dr. Neimetuonuo Kuotsu and obs & gynae DH Peren, Dr. Denis.

Dr. Kiholi Asumi gave a powerpoint presentation on SUMAN highlighting about the schemes, stating its aims and objectives in order to end all preventable maternal and newborn deaths and

morbidities and provide positive birthing experience etc.

Dr. Neimetuonuo Kuotsu also gave an update of Laqshya programme and Dr. Denis presented the District Hospital Peren performance on maternal and child health indicators based on HMIS. Members discussed about the status of the various schemes available under Medical department in the district.

DC in his concluding remark suggested for more workshops for line departments at the block level for broader understanding and to further disseminate the information and access logistics and for better cooperation.

Earlier, deputy CMO Dr. Lanuakum chaired the programme and gave welcome address.

said that Sister Ivy impacted many, including parents as she taught on how to be virtuous, to be good children of God, to fear the Lord and to be modest.

Lithrongla pointed out how Sister Ivy has made LFS one of the strongest educational institutions in Nagaland, not just for education itself but for disciplining and bringing out good citizens.

Lithrongla encouraged the LFS Kohima past pupils to take forward the teachings of Sister Ivy and appealed them not to diminish her teachings but to light the world in a bigger horizon.

Editor and publisher,

DIMAPUR: KVK, Kiphire ICAR for NEH Region conducted training on diversified farming practices for doubling farmers’ income-cum-awareness programme on Farm Act at Nitoi, Phisami and Seyonchung villages from December 15 to 17.

A press release by KVK, Kiphire, senior scientist and HoD, Dr. N. K. Ezung stated that, the resource persons for the programme were Temjenna Jamir, SMS (agro meteorology), DAMU, KVK Kiphire, Sepila Sangtam, area co-ordinator, NRLM and Seroba Sangtam, HEA, DHO, Kiphire. Temjenna spoke on various IFS models and horticulture based farming system.

Seroba emphasised on high value crops for obtaining higher income and the pests of horticultural crops and its management.

Sepila Sangtam elaborated on value addition where she laid emphasis on processing fruits and vegetables for increasing income.

Training was conducted as part of Krishi Kalyan Abhiyan-III activity in aspirational district. Altogether, 90 farmers attended the training.

Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger after unveiling the monolith along with the church pastor and village council.

DIMAPUR: Chuchuyimlang Baptist Church (CBC) Mokokchung celebrated its centenary jubilee starting from December 19 and 20, conducted under the theme “Kibuba uludaktsudi” at the church premises.

A press release by the organisers stated that, ABAM Impur executive secretary, Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger in his speech, expressed happiness in celebrating the centenary of the church blessed by the almighty since its inception. He said that jubilee has

always been special times to look back, to rejuvenate one’s life and to renew the faith, so that one may grow towards a deeper Christian life and do more generous service to others. In this, he urged upon the congregation to reconcile, to reform and to proclaim the goodness of life.

On the centenary occasion, minister of Planning and Coordination, Land revenue, Neiba Kronu extended jubilee greetings and that celebration of the jubilee was a huge landmark for the

Nagaland Page, Monalisa who was also a student of Sister Ivy, 1977 batch described her as a constant moral anchor who continues to make indelible marks in many lives.

Monalisa expressed at how blessed she was to witness the 60 years together with Sister Ivy and how the latter had “changed us from wild weeds to roses and you have been a teacher par excellence.” She also said that Sister Ivy would always be that firm voice that speaks to “us” to remain true to God. OSD to government of Nagaland and HoD NSDMA, Johnny who was also present, congratulated Sister Ivy for her diamond years in the service of God and also for moulding so many lives who were now contributing towards the society.

During the brief programme, Atula Kikon (1983 batch) invoked God’s blessings upon Sister Ivy, Father Paul proposed vote of thanks while pastor Moa Imsong pronounced the benediction.

Programme was compered by Abeny Odyuo (1983 batch) and was attended by sisters from Mazzarello Home, Senapati and from St. Joseph University who also presented a special Christmas rendition.

equipment to DMMDH Wokha

Deben Ch. Das with Dr. Tumchobeni during the programme.

DIMAPUR: Doyang Hydro Electric Plant of North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO Ltd) as part of its corporate social responsibility handed over five physiotherapy equipment to Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital (DMMDH), Wokha under CS&R Scheme 20192020.

A press release by

NEEPCO Ltd, Doyang Hydro Electric Plant, Wokha stated that, medical superintendent Dr. Tumchobeni received the equipment on behalf of the hospital from DHEP head of plant, Deben Ch. Das in presence of NEEPCO & hospital officials on December 19.

DHEP management has been extending all possible medical aids to the

local communities living in proximity to the plant by means of conducting free medical camps, providing medicines, health counselling, providing medical equipment’s etc. as a social welfare measure. NEEPCO is committed to undertake various community developments with special focus on education, health, infrastructure development and other community needs.

KVK Kiphire NVCO & LMCP observe ‘National Consumer Day’ organise training DIMAPUR: Day three tion thereof, has to face a lot Nagaland for introduc- nism which was functioning Nagaland Voluntar y of problems and pay bribes ing the Right to Public through a tool free telephone on Farm Act ofConsumers’ 1800–345–3701 where citiOrganisation to avail the needed public Services.

CBC celebrates centenary jubilee

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3

State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

church to grow bigger to win more souls for the Lord in the days to come. Minister acknowledged the pioneer, church leader and the congregation for the successful centenary jubilee celebration. He also called upon the congregation to maintain mutual relationship among the neighboring villages as a dutiful Christian.

The commemorative monolith was unveiled by Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger along with the church pastor and village council.

(NVCO) and Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection (LMCP) department’s week-long “National Consumer Day” was observed at NVCO office Kohima on December 20.

A press release by NVCO press and media cell stated that, NVCO president Kezhokhoto Savi presented public services delivery as per the Central Act stating that every citizen was entitled to hassle-free public services and redresses of his grievances. Accordingly, he said that the Right to Public Services Act represents the commitment of the particular state towards standard, quality and time frame of service delivery, grievances redressal mechanism, transparency and accountability.

Savi also said that currently, public officials and civil servants were considered as one of the troubled sections of society due to their slow and painful process in performing their duties. As a result, the common man, who is entitled to avail hassle-free public services and informa-

services, he added.

Savi pointed out that, the Model Public Service Law is to cover functionaries providing important social services like education, health, rural development, etc, and commit them to their duties and for that purpose, legislative department has attempted a tentative Bill titled the Public Services (Protection and regulation) Bill. He said that the common framework of the state legislation includes, granting of “right to public services”, which are to be provided to the public by the designated official within the stipulated time frame. While some other states like Madhya Pradesh has enacted the Right to Service Act, Savi said that Nagaland state government was yet to enact the Act/law “which is found to be very much application to the state and to clean up the system to ensure smooth delivery of services to the people and crack down on erring officials”. He also appreciated the department of Commerce and Industries,

On December 19, programme was held at the office of Nagaland State Consumer Helpline, D-Block, Kohima. Kezhokhoto Savi presented the functions of Nagaland state consumer helpline with toll free 1800–345– 3701. Savi said that the consumer helpline provided counselling on all products and services and developed a data base information relating to the state and that it was an alternate consumer dispute redressal mecha-

zens call and seek information or guidance for his/ her day to day consumer problems.

Christmas greetings extended by various factions

DIMAPUR: Christmas and New Year greetings have been extended to the Nagas by Working Committee (WC) of NNPGs and GPRN/NSCN respectively.

WC, NNPGs: Convenor of Working Committee (WC) of NNPGs, N. Kitovi Zhimomi on behalf of WC, NNPGs, conveyed great joy and happiness to “our people wherever one may be” and to “let this festive season remind each one us of who we are in the eyes of God and man.”

Kitovi said that, Christmas was a special time to recall and cherish the love of God in one’s personal and professional lives and that “the plan of God is beyond human wisdom and understanding” as “God chooses the heart and not the outer appearance of man.” He also added that Christmas was a time for families and relative to strengthen and renew bonds and that “meaningful reconciliation and forgiveness must be nurtured in our hearts for our fellowmen.” WC, NNPGs also conveyed heartfelt gratitude to all Nagas, transcending international boundaries; Naga friends and well wishers across the world, for the support and solidarity extended to the Naga

people.

GPRN/NSCN: GPRN/ NSCN president ‘gen. (retd)’ M. B. Neokpao Konyak has extended warmest greetings and best wishes to everyone on the occasion of celebrating the birth of Christ. In a greetings message to the Nagas, the GPRN/NSCN president said that, “situation have improved much better today and peace is returning in our strife and turmoil stricken land” and for which he extended sincere gratitude to the denizens and everyone responsible for playing their precious part in the collective effort for peace.

President also paid tribute to the many martyrs “who have already left us for our better future and may have since been forgotten”, whereby a moment of homage and prayer was very much due for them and millions of other unfortunate and less privileged men. While wishing the Naga people a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year, the president also hoped that this Christmas would bring back the forgotten bond of love, peace and unity amongst the Naga people and touch the land “with a healing hand to fulfil our hopes and aspirations so that we can secure a happier and better future.”

K Y M C

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

of Empowerment’: 22,245 girls Indo-Bangla border talks in Ghy from Tuesday ‘Wheels given Dr Banikanta Kakati Merit Award

NEW DELHI, DEC 20 (PTI): The 51st director general-level border coordination conference between the Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) will be held in Guwahati from December 22 to 26, an official statement said.

This is for the first time in four decades that the biannual conference will be held outside Delhi.

The BSF delegation will be led by Director General Rakesh Asthana while the BGB delegation will headed by the force’s chief Major General Md Shafeenul Islam.

The conference will focus on addressing and streamlining mechanisms on how to jointly curb various trans-border crimes and timely sharing of information between both the border guarding forces, an official statement said.

There will be deliberations on developmental and infrastructure works, joint efforts for effective implementation of Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) and Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), the statement said.

The aim of the talks is to discuss border related issues, and to enable better coordination between both

the forces, it said.

The last BSF–BGB conference was held from September 16 to 19 in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh.

The joint India-Bangladesh guidelines for border authorities – 1975 envisage that there should be frequent contact between the border authorities of the two concerned countries to discuss matters of immediate administrative concern.

An Indian delegation under the leadership of Ashwani Kumar, the then Director General of BSF and the Bangladesh delegation under the leadership of Major General Quazi Golam Dastgir, former Director General BDR (now BGB) met in Kolkata on December 2, 1975 for the first time to discuss mutual border problems.

Since then, the meetings between DG BSF and DG BGB were held annu-

ally alternatively in India and Bangladesh till 1993.

During discussions between the home secretaries of India and Bangladesh that were held at Dhaka from Oct 7 to 9 in 1993, it was agreed that the director general-level meetings between the BSF and BGB, were to be a biannual event.

In the agreed summary of discussions during the said meeting, it was emphasised that problems in the areas of mutual interests and concerns could be progressively resolved through close contacts and continuing meaningful dialogue at various levels.

Accordingly, DG BSF and DG BGB have been holding border coordination meetings twice a year alternatively at Delhi and Dhaka and joint record of discussions of these meetings are forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs after each such meeting, the

statement said.

Assam’s capital city is the base for BSF’s Guwahati frontier headquarters whose troops guard 495 km of the front, out of the total 4,096 km long IndiaBangladesh international border, that runs along this state and some parts of West Bengal.

A special BSF water wing that keeps vigil along the riverine border areas including Dhubri in Assam are under the command of this frontier of the border force.

The current relations between the two countries and the forces are very good and and both the sides will take them forward during these talks, officials said.

While the Indian side is expected to take up the issue of joint border security management, fencing of unfenced areas and undertaking effective steps to curb cross-border crimes, the Bangaldeshi border force is expected to take up issues related to killing of its people along the front.

BSF DG Asthana, during the last meeting in Dhaka, has said that the killing of criminals along the front will be “made to reduce significantly” even as he reiterated that his troops only fire when their

lives are endangered by cross-border miscreants.

He had said that death or apprehension of criminals on the border are “irrespective of nationalities.”

“BSF personnel fire with non-lethal weapon only in self-defence when they are surrounded by large number of miscreants armed with dah (cleavershaped knife), sticks etc, and their lives are endangered,” he was quoted as saying by a BSF spokesperson.

The two sides are also expected to firm up new standard operating procedures (SOPs) in view of crossing of “significant” number of mentally disabled Indian nationals to Bangladesh, a plan mooted by the BSF chief.

The two forces, after the Dhaka talks in September, had also decided to “share real-time information” with each other expeditiously through formal or informal channels regarding human trafficking, smuggling of narcotics, fake Indian currency notes, cattle, arms, ammunition, explosives, information related to anti-social elements, activities of IIGs (Indian Insurgent groups) and breach or damage of the border fence.

CM Sarbananda Sonowal with Hemanta Biswa Sarma distributes scooters among meritorious students under Pragyan Bharati scheme, in Guwahati. (PTI) Guwahati, Dec 20 (AGENCIES) : Another day filled with happiness as students from Kamrup & Kamrup Metropolitan, who secured the first division in Higher Secondary Examination were given a scooter each. As many as 22,245 girl students from the state will receive the Dr Banikanta Kakati Merit Award, reports The Sentinel Assam.

Assam Finance, Health, Education and PWD Minister, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the news on his official Twitter account.

He wrote, “Wheels of Empowerment. Glad that 22,245 girl students are being

given Dr Banikanta Kakati Merit Award while students from Kamrup & Kamrup M who secured 1st Div in HSE get a scooter each. Joined HCM @sarbanandsonwal at their felicitation today. #AssamEduCare.”

Earlier last month, many of the meritorious girl students queued up in front of a two-wheeler dealer in Guwahati with the relevant documents to see if they are eligible to get a scooty by the state government.

The scheme was launched by Assam Minister of Finance, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma. Under this scheme, all the girl students who have secured

1st Division in their Higher Secondary examination will receive a scooty. The candidates had to apply online to avail the benefits of the scheme. Sarma had launched the scheme with the aim that every one of the girl students can travel to their respective colleges.

A two-wheeler dealer in Guwahati will hand over 1,830 scooters to meritorious girl students. Around 22,000 scooties will be given to the girl students of the state. We hope this gesture of the state government further encourages the students to perform better in their academics, Sarma said.

Good Samaritans helping needy One more COVID KMSS unveils flag of its political party Raijor Dol death in M’laya in run-up to Christmas in M’laya Correspondent GUWAHATI, DEC 20 of 126 constituencies in

Correspondent

Shillong, Dec 20: Several organisations and individuals in Meghalaya have been extending assistance to the poorer section in the society ahead of the forthcoming Christmas and New Year, especially vulnerable people who have been economically hit hard due to the ongoing pandemic.

Various Churches in the state have been helping the needy in several ways, even as renowned organisations and internationally known clubs have also come forward to assist the poor, especially with the harsh winter setting in.

There have also been instances of police officials voluntarily distributing blankets to people in the rural areas of the state.

On the other hand, in view of the prevailing situation concerning COVID-19 in the state and in order to put in place preventive and mitigation measures so the pandemic is contained, reduced and eliminated in East Khasi Hills District and Meghalaya, the District Magistrate, Isawanda Laloo in an order, issued

under Section 144 CrPC readtogether with Regulation 3 of the Meghalaya Epidemic Diseases, COVID-19 Regulations, 2020 has extended the night curfew in East Khasi Hills District with effect from December 21 upto January 1, 2021 for timings falling between 11 PM to 5 AM each day.

However, the night curfew will be lifted on the nights of December24, 25 and 31 in view of the ensuing Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“The night curfew will not apply to medical teams and officials on COVID19 duty, police, security and armed forces, Civil Defence and Home Guard volunteers, wholesale and retail pharmacies, Fire and Emergency service, MeECL, NEEPCO and Power Grid, FCI vehicles, officers and staff of corona care centres, press, print and electronic, Information and Public Relations Department, National Highways & Infrastructure Development CorporationLtd, Shillong Municipal Board and Telecom service,” the order said.

Shillong, Dec 20: Another Covid-19 related death in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district took the number of fatalities due to the viral infection to 134, while 32 new cases added up to 499 active cases, even as 89 more recoveries surged the recovery figure to 12,620 in the State on Sunday.

Director of Health Services (MI), Dr. Aman War said 28 more COVID-19 positive cases were detected in the East Khasi Hills district, while three were detected in West Garo Hills district and one in Ri-Bhoi district. The East Khasi Hills, including Shillong is the most affected district in the State with 317 active Covid-19 cases, followed by West Jaintia Hills with 86 positive cases as on date.

Meanwhile, 64 more persons recovered from the viral disease in East Khasi Hills district, while seven persons recovered in West Garo Hills district, six in Ri-Bhoi district, five in South West Garo Hills district, four in East Jaintia Hills district two in South West Khasi Hills district and one person in East Garo Hills district.

(AGENCIES): The newly formed political party of the state, Raijor Dol (people’s party) unveiled its party flag on Sunday, reports The Sentinel Assam.

The party also announced the dates of the first convention, which is to be held in January 2021.

The flag was launched in the presence of Jahnu Baruah, Filmmaker; Ghyanshyam Nath, Former Principal of Guwahati Commerce College; Rubul Das and Giri Shankar Goswami, Convenors; and Vasco De Saikia, former president of Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS).

The Dates for the very first state convention of Raijor Dol was announced

by Vasco De Saikia. The convention will take place from January 7 to 9 in Moran district of Assam. He further said that the party has already formed about 29 district committeees and 75 constituency committees in the state.

He also said that Raijor Dol will make its entry in all the constituencies of the state. There are a total

Assam. However, Saikia mentioned that the party will not field candidates across all the constituencies alon. They will join hands with other regional p[arties to come together.

An indication was given by Saikia about a possible alliance with another newly formed regional party of the state, Asom Jatiya Parishad.

Raijor Dol was officially launched by KMSS on October 2. The party promises of a better tomorrow. Around 70 indigenous groups and the regional party, the ‘’Sanjukta Anchalik Dal, Asom’’, who were together during the anti Citizenship (Amendment) Act agitation, are in support of the newly formed Raijor Dol. The official slogan of the party is chosen as “think globally, act locally.”

The party made the process of joining the party as a member incredibly easy. All one has to do to become a member of the ‘Raijor Dal’ is log into their official website (www. raijordal.org) and submit a few details to become a member of the party.

Press conference held by Raijor Dol Amendment Act. Later, his case was handed Akhil Gogoi to contest zenship According to Konwar, he over to the National Investielections in 2021 is certain that Gogoi will gation Agency (NIA). NIA

Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) leader Akhil Gogoi will contest the 2021 elections in Assam from Sivasagar constituency in Upper Assam, as stated

by Dhaijya Konwar, his deputy who is presently out on bail.

Gogoi has been incarcerated for his role in the protests against the Citi-

contest from the Sivasagar Assembly Constituency and added that the ‘Raijor Dol,’formed by KMSS, is holding “informal talks” with the fellow regional party Asom Jatiya Parishad (AJP).

Gogoi was arrested on December 12 as a preventive measure as protests against the CAA resulted in violence in various places.

then filed a chargesheet against the peasant leader on June 29, 2020, for allegedly conspiring with the CPI (Maoist) group for commissioning alleged terrorist acts.

While in jail, the KMSS floated its own regional party called “Raijor Dol” to contest the polls in Assam.

Five CSOs oppose delimitation exercise in Manipur Mizoram governor urges Centre 12 more test COVID +ve in Mizoram Suggests delimitation exercise in Manipur after 2031 census

Correspondent IMPHAL, Dec 20: A one-day discourse hosted by five civil society organisations (CSOs) in Imphal on Sunday resolved to oppose the proposed delimitation exercise in Manipur based on ‘incorrect’ 2001 and 2011 census reports.

Delimitation Commission of India is in the process of carrying out a delimitation exercise in Manipur based on the controversial 2001 census report.

The commission, in a notification issued on February 28, 2020, stated that the delimitation and readjustment exercise is to be taken up based on census 2001 under Delimitation Act, 2002.

Many civil society organisations based in the state have been opposing the proposed delimitation exercise based on the disputed 2001 census report while pointing out the errors in the census report with abnormal growth in

some subdivisions of hill districts.

A ‘one-day discourse on inaccurate census data and demographic imbalance in Manipur’ held in Imphal on Sunday deliberated the issue once again.

Five CSOs - ACOAML u p, H E R I C O U N, LIPUL, UPF and UNACSU – hosted the discourse which was moderated by W Nabakumar, a retired professor of the Manipur University.

After resource persons presented their views on the possible future consequences if the delimitation was carried out based on the disputed census report, the discourse resolved to oppose the proposed delimitation based on 2001 or 2011 census reports.

The resource persons of the discourse claimed that errors in the census reports were scientifically proved and as such the delimitation should not be carried out based on such incorrect population data.

It will not only create demographic imbalance but miss the objective of the delimitation exercise proportional representation, the resource persons observed.

The Manipur government should set up the state population commission immediately and steps should be taken up for effective functioning of the commission so that the possible demographic imbalance in the state is checked.

The discourse further resolved to build up a mass movement if the state government fails to take up the necessary steps to set up the state population commission and to press the Centre not to carry out the delimitation exercise based on a disputed census report.

Earlier, talking on the sideline of the discourse, HERICOUN president Longjam Ratan claimed that many CSOs and almost all the political parties having offices in the

state have registered their strong objections to carrying out of the proposed delimitation based on disputed census reports.

Despite strong oppositions, the Centre remained silent without which has prompted the five CSOs to bring out the issue once again.

Many CSOs and political parties have submitted memorandums to the pertinent authorities of the Central government but there has been no response from the Centre till date.

He said that errors in the 2001 and 2011 census reports were accepted by all and if the delimitation exercise was carried out in these incorrect census data, it will create a demographic imbalance besides not meeting the objective “proportional representation” of the delimitation.

He said that resource persons and many experts who participated in today’s discourse suggested delimitation exercise after the 2031 census report.

to set up AIIMS in Mizoram

Aizawl, Dec 20 (PTI): Twelve more people tested positive for novel coronavirus in Mizoram in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 4,122, an official said on Sunday. “with basic amenities unThe number of active cases in the state now is 158, available even at district while 3,957 patients have recovered from the disease. hospitals.”

Seven people have died due to COVID-19 in MizThe prime minister oram so far. was informed that even Aizawl civil hospital lacks adequate medical facilities for treatment of some critical illnesses and most of the time serious patients Dear Kumty, (Kupu) have to go outside the state You are one who has make differincurring huge expenses, the ence of good happening to all of us.

Sreedharan Pillai (File) official said.

We wish you the best of everything in The governor submitlife.

May you always stay blessed. We AIZAWL, DEC 20 (PTI): ted a memorandum to PM love you so dear.

Mizoram Governor P S Modi for setting up of a Love you, Odi, eza, oba Sreedharan Pillai has urged super speciality facility in Prime Minister Narendra the northeastern state.

Modi to set up a medical “That is the only way Dearest Shri. Azheto 75years will be counted as :- 900 science facility on par with for easy access to affordable months, 3913 weeks, 27393 days with New Delhi’s All India medical care and expert 657435 hours, 39446157mints, Institute of Medical Sci- treatment,” the memoran2366769459second ences (AIIMS) in Mizoram, dum read.

75years of greatness on this earth an official said on Sunday.

In his meeting with is an absolutely incredible achieveAt a meeting with the the prime minister in Dement. The gift for this birthday has to prime minister in the na- cember last, Chief Minister be special because the moment itself tional capital on Friday, Zoramthanga had urged is special.“Life’s road isn’t always the governor apprised him him to upgrade the states about the health issues in the lone medical college, Zoram smooth. But somehow you always managed to walk in state with special focus on Medical College (ZMC), truth” In you I see every knowledgeable man, a great AIDS, cancer, malaria, heart into a medical college-cum- counselor, a devoted Leader and above all my best role attacks and neurological hospital like AIIMS, saying Boss. Indeed, you are a special blessing from the Lord. problems, the official said. it would not only benefit May the divine favor of the Lord be richly present in Pillai stressed on the residents of Mizoram but your world. Have a joyful 75th Birthday celebration. underdeveloped health in- also people from neighbourFrom. khekaswu30@gmail.com frastructure of the state ing states.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

at Ghazipur border set Farmers’ open letter counters Modi, Tomar Farmers up ‘Neki ki divar’ for protesters NEW DELHI, DEC 20 (AGENCIES): A day ahead of observing ‘Shraddhanjali Diwas’ (Day of Homage) in memory of protesting farmers who died during the ongoing agitation, the farm unions on Saturday wrote a joint ‘open’ letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and agriculture minister Narendra Singh Tomar saying it’s the farmers’ protest that compelled the opposition political parties to change their stand and not the other way round as is being erroneously propagated by the government, reports Times of India.

The farmers’ unions have planned to reach out to more than one lakh villages across the country while observing ‘Shraddhanjali Diwas’ on Sunday even as the government has been in informal talks with several organisations to end the current impasse.

As more and more Haryana farmers started assembling at borders in solidarity with their counterparts from Punjab, Haryana

Punjabi Singer Babbu Maan at Delhi-UP border during their sit-in protest against the Centre’s farm reform laws, in Ghaziabad, Sunday. (PTI)

chief minister M L Khattar on Sunday met Tomar and is learnt to have discussed issues relating to farmers’ agitation and water sharing of the Sutlej Yamuna Link canal involving Punjab.

Insisting that the central farm laws would only be beneficial for corporates and MNCs, the unions’ umbrella body, AIKSCC, issued point-wise clarifications on what Tomar had

said in his ‘open’ letter to farmers two days ago, and reiterated their demand of repealing the farm laws.

“It seems you are just trying to create misunderstanding about the farmers’ movement as you preferred to write an ‘open’ letter instead of calling for a meeting to find a solution,” said the AIKSCC addressing Tomar.

The Centre has, however, on multiple occasions said that

the government was ready for “clause by clause” discussions with farm leaders to find a solution.

Besides explaining how the farm laws would benefit farmers, Tomar in his open letter on Thursday seemed to target Congress, Left-aligned farmers’ unions, AAP, SAD and some experts, saying the same group of people with similar thinking has been, in the past six years, trying

to create unrest in society while hiding sometimes behind students, sometimes behind ‘Dalits’, women or the minorities.

Responding to the PM on linking the ongoing protests with opposition parties, the farmers’ unions in their letter said, “If you look at our demands carefully, you may find that none of our demands have anything to do with any political parties.” They were referring to the remarks made by Modi during his address to ‘Kisan Sammelan’, held across MP, through video conferencing on Friday. On the agriculture minister’s point that the farmers would not lose their land at any cost under the new farm laws, the AIKSCC said in its letter that Tomar’s claim was contradicted by the Contract Act 2020, which provided for “farmer land to be mortgaged under Section 9 and for recovery of dues from the farmer u/s 14.7 as arrears of land revenue for advances taken from the company under section 14.2 of the Acts”.

New Delhi, Dec 20 (PTI): It was a normal roadside wall of brick and mortar till a day ago, but now it is called the “Neki ki divar” (wall of goodness).

From clothes to toiletries to medicines, the protesters who are continuing their sit-in at Delhi’s Ghazipur border against the Centre’s new agri laws can get these things by writing their needs on this wall.

“We have set up a ‘neki ki divar’ today. The idea is to ensure all our farmer brothers and sisters are well equipped to be a part of the protest and keep themselves warm in Delhi’s harsh weather,” Survinder Kisan, one of the protesters at Ghazipur border, said.

Two kiosks have been attached to the roadside wall at the protest site.

“At one place people can leave what they want to donate and the other side is for protesters who can collect things as per their needs from the existing stock,” he

said.

“If what they need is not available, they can write it on the wall and it will be provided to them,” Survinder Kisan, one of the protesters at the Ghazipur border said.

Space has been left on the wall and chalks have been kept, so that people can leave messages about their needs, he said, adding a register will also be maintained.

They are providing masks, sanitisers, medicines, toiletries, beddings, woollen clothes. “We will add more items. Food is already being served at langars,” Survinder said.

The protesting farmers also observed ‘Shradhanjali Diwas’ on Sunday to pay homage to those who had “died during the ongoing agitation”.

“We are paying homage to the farmers who lost their lives during agitation.

It will be a pity if we let go of their sacrifices without

getting our demands met,” said Ratan Jhadola, another protester.

The Gazipur Border (Delhi-UP border) was closed on Thursday due to the farmers’ protest.

Thousands of farmers, especially from Punjab and Haryana, have been camping at various borders of the national capital for almost four weeks now as formal talks between the government and representatives of farmers’ unions remained deadlocked with protesting peasants refusing to accept anything less than a repeal of the three newly enacted laws.

The Supreme Court on Thursday acknowledged the right of farmers to nonviolent protests and mooted the idea of putting on hold the contentious farm laws to enable negotiations with agitating farmers which was opposed by the Centre saying agriculturists would then not come forward for the talks.

Cold wave sweeps Delhi, minimum Blueprint of Ayodhya mosque unveiled with other amenities temp dips to 3.4 degree Celsius New Delhi, Dec 20 (PTI): A cold wave swept Delhi on Sunday as it recorded the coldest morning of the season so far at 3.4 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

On Saturday, the minimum temperature at the Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative data for the city, had settled at 3.9 degrees Celsius.

“The obser vator y recorded a minimum of 3.4 degrees Celsius, five notches below the normal, on Sunday morning. The maximum temperature is likely to settle around 22 degrees Celsius,” an IMD official said.

The mercury dipped to 3.3 degrees Celsius at Lodhi Road, as icy winds from snow-laden Western Himalayas barrelled through the city, the IMD said.

On Friday, the minimum temperature had plunged to 2.7 degrees Celsius at Jafarpur.

On Friday, the minimum temperature had plunged to 2.7 degrees Celsius at Jafarpur.

The city had recorded a “severe” cold day on Thursday as the maximum temperature dropped to 15.2 degrees Celsius, seven notches below normal and the lowest this season so far. However, it rose to 19.8 degrees Celsius on Friday and 21.8 degrees Celsius on Saturday.

According to the IMD, a “cold day” is when the minimum temperature is

less than 10 degrees Celsius and the maximum is at least 4.4 degrees Celsius below the normal. A “severe” cold day is when the maximum temperature is at least 6.5 notches below the normal.

For the plains, the IMD declares a cold wave when the minimum temperature is 10 degrees Celsius or below and is 4.5 notches less than the normal for two consecutive days.

LU C K N OW, D EC 2 0 (AGENCIES): The IndoIslamic Cultural Foundation Trust on Saturday unveiled the blueprint of the mosque along with other amenities that will be constructed on the five-acre land, allotted by the state government in Ayodhya’s Dhannipur village, reports The Indian Express.

If the proposed maps get the required approval from the authorities concerned in time, then work on the site might start from the Republic Day, the Trust said. In case the permissions are not granted in time, then the next proposed date of commencing work will be the Independence day.

Earlier, the Trust had confirmed that besides the mosque, other facilities such as research centre on IndoIslamic culture and study, charitable hospital, community kitchen, museum and public library will also be built on the site.

Earlier on Saturday, the plan and design of the whole area was showcased during an interaction with

Blueprint of Ayodhya mosque to replace Babri Masjid, released by Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF). Its foundation will be laid on Republic Day. (PTI)

the Founder Dean Faculty of Architecture & Ekistics at Delhi’s Jamia Milia Islamia University, Professor S M Akhtar. He is also the consultant architect for the mosque complex project. Retired JNU Professor Pushpesh Pant, who is the curator of the museum, along with Mumbai-based philanthropist Mohammad Shoib who has shown interest to raise funds for the hospital, also took part in the event virtually.

India, Vietnam to ink pacts today

End minority status “They are also likely to for Muslims, says issue a Joint Vision for this,” Sakshi Maharaj the source said.

File photo of Narendra Modi with his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

New Delhi, Dec 20 (PTI): India and Vietnam are likely to seal a number of agreements and make certain announcements to further expand overall ties including in areas of defence, energy and healthcare at a virtual summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Monday, official sources said.

The evolving situation in the Indo-Pacific is expected to figure prominently in the talks as both countries have shared interest in a free, open, peaceful, prosperous and a rules-based regional order, they said.

In the summit, the two sides are also likely to issue a joint vision for future development of ‘India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ with an aim to chart a new course of enhanced cooperation in a range of areas, they said.

India and Vietnam up-

graded their relationship to the level of comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016 and the defence cooperation has been one of the most significant pillars of the fast expanding bilateral ties.

The sources said implementation of India’s defence Line of Credit for high speed guard boats for Vietnam is likely to be further taken forward in the summit.

Both the countries have stakes in the Indo-Pacific and they are expected to explore potential cooperation to expand cooperation in the region based on respective vision for the region by India as well as the ASEAN. At the East Asia Summit in Bangkok last year, Prime Minister Modi proposed setting up of the IndoPacific Ocean’s Initiative (IPOI) to conserve and sustainably use the maritime domain and to make meaningful efforts to create a safe and secure maritime domain.

The 10-nation ASEAN has reflected its vision for the region in a document titled ‘ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP)’.

Vietnam, an important country of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), has territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea region.

India has oil exploration projects in the Vietnamese waters in the South China Sea. China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea, a huge source of hydrocarbons. However, several ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei, have counter claims.

“The two leaders will exchange views on wideranging bilateral, regional and global issues and provide guidance for the future development of IndiaVietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” said a source.

In addition, a number of agreements/announcements are likely, covering areas such as defence, energy, development partnership and healthcare, it said.

The sources said the two leaders will also take stock of the regional and global landscape and exchange views on their respective strategies to deal with the coronavirus pandemic as well as the post-pandemic economic revival.

In this context, the existing economic and trade linkages between the two countries provide a useful platform to explore new and resilient supply chains, they said.

Referring to the longstanding tradition of standing by each other during difficulties, showing sensitivity to each other’s concerns and aspirations, the sources said the summit will reinforce these friendly sentiments and chart a new course for future development of the ties.

In the summit, the two sides are also likely to explore new opportunities in renewable energy cooperation, they said.

Both prime ministers had a telephone conversation on April 13 to discuss the situation arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held an online meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart on November 27.

K anpu r ( U tta r P r ad e s h ) , D e c 2 0 (IANS): Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Unnao, Sakshi Maharaj, known for his controversial remarks, has now said that “as there are more Muslims in India than in Pakistan, their minority status should be abolished”.

Sakshi was addressing a function in Unnao on Saturday.

He said, “There is more Muslim population in India than Pakistan, therefore the minority status of the Muslims should be abolished with immediate effect. Muslims should now consider themselves to be the younger siblings of the Hindus and live with them in the country.”

Speaking over the rising population of the country, Sakshi said, “Soon a bill would be tabled in Parliament to check the increasing population. Those who will have more than two children, will be deprived from contesting elections.”

The BJP MP further attacked the opposition parties on the farmers’ ongoing protest against farm laws, and said, “The government is ready to talk about the farm laws.”

He lashed out at the Congress, saying that “like the Ram temple, the Congress and other political parties should appeal in the Supreme Court on the agricultural bill.

Rather, they are firing guns from the shoulders of innocent farmers’ shoulders”.

“Professor Akhtar has showcased the plan of the entire mosque complex along with the four-storey 200-bed super speciality hospital, which will include all modern facilities. The mosque will have two floors and will be spherical in shape. The whole concept is to convey a message on climate change, which is a matter of concern and needs our attention. It will not just be symbolic, but we will make it a zero-energy build-

ing. All power demands in the mosque will be met with the help of solar panels and there will be no electricity connection,” said Athar Husain, secretary and spokesperson of the foundation Trust.

“In addition to that, we will develop a green patch and procure saplings from all over the world, including Amazon rainforest, places where the bushfire took place in Australia and other geographical locations

in India. The community kitchen and museum have been curated by Professor Pant, showing our composite legacy,” Husain said.

He added, “In Islam, there is no tradition of a grand celebration for the foundation stone laying ceremony of a mosque. Once the project is completed, we can arrange a big event.

The date of January 26 has been chosen as on this day our Constitution came into effect ,” he added.

The officials of the Trust said as of now they do not have a detailed plan to collect contribution for the project. A rough estimate suggested that only the hospital will cost around Rs 100 crore. Two separate bank accounts have been created to collect money for the construction – the first for the mosque and the second, for other structures. Members of the Trust added that though a final name for the mosque is yet to be agreed upon, it has been decided that it will not be named after Babar or any other king, emperor or ruler.

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXxI NO. 19 Dimapur, MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Ignoring experts

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hat the Department of Health & Family Welfare (DoH&FW) has said about imminent threat posed by community transmission of the coronavirus if people continue to behave as if life was back to the good old normal ways; hides the other most likely possibility that it may have already taken place. Many of those who got infected by the virus had no travel history nor known sources of contact with those infected with the virus. Even in many cities such as New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Ahemdabad, Chennai etc large scale infections have been reported. However, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare(MoH&FW) including its Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) live in denial. The figures of COVID-19 nationwide has been under scrutiny of eminent virologists and epidemiologists who concurred that as per the sero survey conducted by a panel of ICMR, it testified to the fact that there was under reporting. A new mathematical model suggests that India may have reached herd immunity” as contained in a report in a paper published online by The Indian Journal of Medical Research. Herd immunity happens when at least around 50% of the population have recovered and stop the spread. This has contributed in a large way towards fall in number of infections. Chairperson of the Scientific Advisory Committee, National Institute of Epidemiology, Dr Jayaprakash Muliyil said that the only explanation of the falling number of patients is that more regions across the country are now showing signs of herd immunity. However, other scientists say the model overestimates the number of people already infected and warn that with colder temperatures and several religious holidays approaching, India may well see a second wave. Giridhar Babu, an epidemiologist with the Public Health Foundation of India, however believes the virus may have burned through large, densely packed populations but will continue to spread in rural areas, at a lower rate, for many months. A case in point is that antibodies were found in 41% of residents of slums in Mumbai while it was only 18% in the main city. Daily new infections in India have fallen from a high of 90,000 a day in midSeptember to fewer than 50,000 during the last part of October and to around 500 in November. National Supermodel Committee, which modelled the past and future of India’s epidemic at the government’s request; suggests that 380 million Indians had already been infected by mid-September and that there might be “minimal active symptomatic infections” by late February 2021 if control measures continue. Experts agree that spread in rural areas, home to more than half of the population, is a challenge to both fight and monitor. The health infrastructure in these areas is weaker, making it harder to treat patients; while testing isn’t easily available in many small towns and villages. Serosurveys suggest official testing, now at 1 million per day, vastly undercounts actual cases. Some states rely heavily on so-called rapid antigen tests, which range widely in sensitivity. This indicates that the assumption that the strategy has paid off isn’t based on facts. By not heeding to the reports from eminent virologists and epidemiologists, the government has missed the opportunity of limiting the spread of COVID-19 and now looks at vaccine as the saviour.

DailyDevotion The Right Kind of Help

And I, if I am lifted up…will draw all peoples to Myself. —John 12:32 Very few of us have any understanding of the reason why Jesus Christ died. If sympathy is all that human beings need, then the Cross of Christ is an absurdity and there is absolutely no need for it.

What the world needs is not “a little bit of love,” but major surgery.

When you find yourself face to face with a person who is spiritually lost, remind yourself of Jesus Christ on the cross. If that person can get to God in any other way, then the Cross of Christ is unnecessary. If you think you are helping lost people with your sympathy and understanding, you are a traitor to Jesus Christ. You must have a right-standing relationship with Him yourself, and pour your life out in helping others in His way— not in a human way that ignores God. The theme of the world’s religion today is to serve in a pleasant, non-confrontational manner.

But our only priority must be to present Jesus Christ crucified— to lift Him up all the time (see 1 Corinthians 2:2). Every belief that is not firmly rooted in the Cross of Christ will lead people astray.

If the worker himself believes in Jesus Christ and is trusting in the reality of redemption, his words will be compelling to others. What is extremely important is for the worker’s simple relationship with Jesus Christ to be strong and growing. His usefulness to God depends on that, and that alone.

The calling of a New Testament worker is to expose sin and to reveal Jesus Christ as Savior. Consequently, he cannot always be charming and friendly, but must be willing to be stern to accomplish major surgery. We are sent by God to lift up Jesus Christ, not to give wonderfully beautiful speeches. We must be willing to examine others as deeply as God has examined us. We must also be sharply intent on sensing those Scripture passages that will drive the truth home, and then not be afraid to apply them.

Quotes

Forgiveness is the final form of love. ~ Reinhold Niebuhr

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Pandemic or not 2020 hit Indian economy T he 2020 is a year one wishes had not been on the calendar. The devastation is immeasurable. Corrections are difficult. Getting back to normal is not easy.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman sums it up. She tells the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata that no amount of government intervention is adequate for pandemic–hit economy. Early 2020, she says, green shoots and revival signs were visible.

It was upset by the pandemic.

There is crisis the world over but a complete lockdown of all activities in the country since March has created enormous hardship for the industry and the people leading to job losses, bank repayment crisis, severe -23.9 percent GDP contraction and the race to have a vaccine for an illusory disease leading to collapse of the health sector. Wealthy Indians and those in the formal sector covered by government and private insurance schemes are not affected, but the poor are.

The hospitals are either non-functional or emerged charging the people at super rates further adding to the hardship.

The farmers issue may not have been there in a normal economy but the pandemic panic lockdown

has accentuated the problem with loss in income as they could not sell their products or sold at lower price despite about Rs 1.5 lakh crore doles announced for their pension and pandemic blues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday tells MP farmers at Raisen that they are today facing the problems because other governments though made manifesto promises but did not make the real reforms. The warehousing and other promises made in the three bills are the panacea, he says.

Though reports coming from Madhya Pradesh say that amid new farm laws and pandemic, state mandis have taken a hit.

Mandis at Shahdol and at 143 other places have seen their revenues drop by 40 to 50 percent in October, 2020 and an overall business fall by 20 percent after the centre’s three recent farm laws came into effect. Managing director, Sanndeep Yadaav, of the state Mandi Board says mandis have recorded a drop in business of about 20 to 25 percent as a chunk of business has started taking place outside the mandis. In 2019, 259 mandis in MP generated about Rs 1246 crore of revenue and paid Rs 413 crore in taxes. The maize prices have fallen to Rs 800 from

Rs 1100 a quintal as no though post-October there procurement of maize has has been some improvebeen done this year. ment. However, the state’s So despite another capital expenditure (capex) Rs 1600 crore dole to the , owing to GST tangle, MP farmers announced have sharply fallen by Rs

by PM they are not in a 1.2 lakh crore in the first happy state. half and is likely to remain Amid such scenario subdued in the second half the GDP is projected to as well. It may be one of shrink by 7.8 percent to the lowest in recent years 10 percent by various rat- and may achieve no more ing agencies. An optimist than 46 percent of the RBI says it will shrink by budget target, about Rs 3 7.5 percent in December lakh crore against targeted monetary policy outlook Rs 6.5 lakh crore. The against its own projec- public capex of states and tion of 9.5 percent in centre and public sector October. enterprises in 2019-20 was The pandemic has about Rs 5 lakh crore. also lowered India’s huNo wonder, Sitharaman deman says Shivaji Sarkar t h a t n o velopment ranking to amount of 131 from 130 earlier in the government intervention UN HDI report. This is a would improve the situreflection on the way the ation. country is taking care of This is indicated by its people. The closure of the contraction for the government activities have eighth consecutive month, seemingly affected the well the output of eight core being of the people. infra str uc ture sec tors The loss of revenue dropped by 2.5 per cent and consequent problems in October, mainly due to has impacted the social decline in production of system. Overall spend- crude oil, natural gas, reing, including revenue finery products and steel. expenditure by the centre The production of eight and states will rise only 15 core sectors had contractpercent over the Rs 33 lakh ed 5.5 per cent in October crore second half of spent 2019, data released by the in the first half of the fiscal Commerce and Industry 2020-21. The economy has Ministry reveal. not received much governThe rising inflation at ment support in the second 7.6 percent, petrol prices quarter, when government shooting up every day deexpenditure fell 22 percent spite falling international

prices, reducing purchasing power due to wage cuts or job losses have convoluted the market has hit the country. The rise in steel and cement prices have added problems to the infrastructure sectors. Steel prices have risen by Rs 2500 to 2700 per ton and cement by Rs 60 to 90 a bag. The consumer markets are, however, thriving and touched normal. Fridges, television and appliances like dishwashers are finding bulk consumers in tier 2, 3 and 4 cities. Some brands like Tata’s are having 40 percent revenue from these segments.

However, the industry is not too confident about ending the fiscal on a positive note. Not all brands could have such booming sales. Post-festivity a lull is also being seen. It may be recalled that the lull had settting between December 2019 and March 2020 had hit the market, government suppliers and even the government itself had to cut its own expenses. So blaming it all on the pandemic is easy but may not be correct. The core sector had a worse performance in 2019 and the present recovery is tepid.

Meanwhile, Credit Suisse notes bottoming out of the economic downturn as it finds that post-October growth stopped falling.

Icra Ratings say that the technical recession to end

by March and limit the GDP growth contraction to 7.8 percent.

This does not, however, mean that all those migrant labourers who had returned from major metros could go back to their work. Only small numbers so far have been able to resume. This means that the free food doles that the government had announced in April cannot close down.

India, as per official statistics, lost 99 lakh lives due to covid19. There is a catch. Nobody apparently had a normal death since March. Apart many with other ailments collapsed due to lack of treatment.

The health care sector has lost credibility and its revival may not be easy.

The pandemic has helped cover up the economic crisis starting since October 2019, when many official suppliers payment was started being delayed along with cut in expenditures of departments and autonomous bodies.

The economy is facing low revivals but higher costs as prices rise. Pandemic may have delayed the correction process but the fact remains that the crisis is severe and cure is not easy.

Shivaji Sarkar

Post-mortem

The Coming of Jesus – Who Responded? Christmas Introspection

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t the time of coming of Jesus, the world was filled with fear. Romans feared the rebellions of her subjects and the subjects feared Rome’s brutalities. The hearts of people everywhere were filled with suspicions, fear and distrust. The grace in God compelled Jesus to come down to the evil world to save every perishing soul. Hence, by that awesome night when the star shone bright God sent His angel to make a very important pronouncement, “Be not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is, Christ the Lord”. (Luke 2: 10-11).

This was no doubt great news to the world. This implies that the gospel has both a divine origin for it comes from Heavenly Father and a human relevance as it speaks to our conditions. Now let us remember that there were three typical responses to this proclamation of the good news. They were – (1) Wise men from the east guided by a star, (2) King Herod and (3) The shepherds.

Each of them represents a class of people, no different basically from those we have today in our society.

The wise men represent the intellectuals, educated and the privileged class of the society. King Herod represents the ruling authority, power broker and the corrupt exploiter. The shepherds represent the ordinary people who somehow manage to survive the daily drudgery of life. They are the poor under employed and the vast marginalized section of the society.

Initially, the wise men from the east suffered from human weakness. They did not first seek the kingdom of God but the kingdom of Herod. But the forgiving God intervened in their dream and thus they escaped from the cruel king and thereby saved the baby Jesus. Their obedience to the Spirit was indeed an expression of their wisdom and spiritual maturity. The wise men worshipped the baby Jesus and departed. Bible is silent on their subsequent activities. The silence and passivity of the good people in society tend to breathe a culture of irresponsible forces and its disastrous effect everywhere. However, this was taken up by Jesus Himself

who was not only assertive but confronted those who matters in defending the truth and not to compromise on hypocrisy.

The great news that a Saviour was born was a threat to King Herod because he was afraid of sharing the power with others. King Herod conveniently assumed a garb of religious posture to achieve his ulterior motive of killing the child Jesus. It is indeed a tragedy. Shading innocent blood does not solve problems nor is it the answer to achieving social or political goals or personal ambitions. King Herod deliberately resorted to strategies to liquidate the alternative power structure very similar to the present day scenario of the abuse of power.

The shepherds belong to the toiling class. They are normally engrossed with their own private sorrows and sufferings. They have accepted deprivation and injustice as their destiny and are resigned to it. They are not aware of the incredible power of their collective strength which can radically change their destiny.

They are aloof. That is why; Jesus asserted that the spiritual and moral values coupled with social responsibilities are the pre-requisite for resolving many growing problems. This warrants government action in promoting equitable sharing of developmental schemes, upliftment of the weaker section, equal opportunities in employment and the right to earn for a living. It is time to create an even more fair and just society.

Before Jesus was commissioned to begin His ministry, The Word of God came upon John the Baptist instructing John to do what God desired. He made a very significant proclamation-“I Baptise you with water; but He who is mightier than I is coming; the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie; he will Baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.” These are the words from heaven. What John the Baptist was saying was – “I am nobody; I am only a voice telling you to get ready for the coming of the King; for He is on the way.” He was telling us to prepare the way of the Lord, “make His path straight” – meaning the road to your heart and soul be smooth, straight and make it free from sin and unclean practices for Jesus to enter your life. (Luke 3: 2- 4)

John the Baptist instructed the religious leaders of the day to know the signs of the times and also warned against their external privileges. He instructed the people to be kind and charitable. Those persons in authority were told not to exact more than which was appointed. He must do justice between the government and the public and not to oppress the people by levying heavy or burdensome taxes.

The public revenue must be appropriate to public services. He instructed the law enforcing authority and the military to avoid injurious practices to the people – “do violence to no man.” Their duty is to maintain peace and order. They were instructed to be happy with their salaries – “Be content with your wages.”

Luke 3: 1 – 14. We are so used to scoundrels of varied hues that even after thousand years the same is still going strong in this world. Therefore, what John the Baptist was preaching long ago is equally relevant even today.

Jesus was born to oppose and to destroy all the immoral activities in human life. The eternal purpose of Jesus was to free mankind from the clutches of Satan. He was willing to pay any price for this to be fulfilled.

No one ever dreamed that this little babe in Bethlehem will soon lead to the greatest movement in world history – the spreading of the Christian faith to every nook and corner of the world. What we need today is the salvation from sin. Until these sins are rooted out, the society in a moral and spiritual sense will go backward rather than forward. People today see no beauty in Christ because they are blind to their sins.

Therefore, more importantly, how we view Bethlehem’s most celebrated Child will determine whether we experience God’s salvation or not. Our salvation depends on what we make of Mary’s Child.

Jesus who was born into our world and who lived and died and rose from the dead is now alive forever and is available and accessible to the people through the Holy Spirit.

Let Jesus implant in us new hopes. When Jesus comes into a person’s life He revolutionizes the life so that the person becomes “a new creation.” This and this alone is our hope.

Mapu Jamir (I.A.S. Retd.)

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t is Christmas time of Joy of giving and forgiving. Jim Reeves Christmas Carols are currently being played all over the nooks and corners of Nagaland. Even non singers who think the notes of Do-Re-Me and Sa-Re-Ka-Ma are different, are finding pleasures in humming Jingle bells, Jingle all the way.

Hectic preparations round the clock are in full swing for Christmas celebration in all the families and churches. But for the pandemic, this year’s celebration at homes will be much more intensive then the Churches. Pigs on the other hand are passing through harrowing time with sleepless nights as any time of the day; they may be summoned to the execution chamber. For them it is not a celebration but rather a question of including them as a part of menu on the Christmas table. It is for businessmen to make profits in sale of various items that will include last year’s unsold stocks. It’s Christmas shopping everywhere in spending one’s lifetime savings or spending the borrowed money. It’s all the way to Dimapur to have the taste of ‘JAI SAM AND KHAI SAM’. Many visitors to Dimapur are presently brandishing themselves as cowboys without horses by wearing second hand jeans and jackets brought from the second hand market of Dimapur. Lipstick sales are however less this year as a result of mask wearing but face powder

is used so thickly that presently with masks and make-ups, all ladies looks fair and pretty. The old timers are however made to stay indoors though their dreams and fancies are mostly roaming outside their homes fantasizing over the funs and adventures of the years gone by.

It is also a time for introspection over the wasted years of making wrong choices, time wasted in anger and anguish, days of hurting people and making enemies instead of making friends, years of more failures but less of success and years without hope. It is time to introspect over the days of money spent without profit, money squandered away on wrong ambition and dreams.

With all the above approaches to Christmas celebrations, we sometimes miss out on the true meaning of Christmas that brings hope to the hopeless world and to the hopeless people through the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is also a time of wishing friends and families and a time to pray and forgive those that wronged and hurt us. It is a time of giving. Christmas is a ‘good news of great Joy’ to all people, to the Christians and to the rest of the world. It is a celebration of Joy, Peace, Hope and Love. This is the good news of Christmas meant for you and me. Wishing all its readers a Merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Tali Longkumer

Reader’s Post Airtel service in Noklak district Sir,

The Choklangan Students’ Union (CSU) is dismayed at the airtel service provider/company recently installed 2G service at Choklangan village, under Noklak district. The CSU is regretted to say that service is provided poorly once in a blue moon (1/7).

The union urge the concerned department to restore and enhance the connectivity and provide 24x7 services and redress the technical problems at the earliest.

The people of Choklangan were overjoyed after the airtel 2G installation as they have been deprived for decades and dejected in this advanced technological era. The installation of the service is serving the purpose of the people and the CSU with great hope request for further enhancement and restoration of more giga bytes. Also the CSU is pleased to invite other telecom services providers.

Mongtson L. Chiu, President, Choklangan Students’ Union

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.

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national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Modi visits Gurudwara Rakabganj Shah holds road roadshow in WB People of Bengal yearning for change: Amit Shah Amit Shah visits Vishva-Bharati

Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a roadshow ahead of West Bengal assembly polls 2021, at Bolpur in Birbhum district, Sunday. (PTI)

Bolpur/SHANTINIKETAN (WB), Dec 20 (PTI): People of West Bengal are yearning for change as they want to get rid of political violence, corruption, extortion and Bangladeshi infiltration, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday, attacking the Mamata Banerjee government.

Addressing people during a roadshow in this

town associated with Bengali cultural and literary icon Rabindranath Tagore, Shah vowed to restore the state to its old glory when it was called “sonar Bangla” (Bengal of gold) if the BJP is voted to power.

“I have attended and organised several roadshows in my life but have never seen one like this.

This roadshow is a reflection of people’s anger

against the Mamata Banerjee government. This crowd reflects people’s faith in the agenda of development of Narendra Modi Ji,” Shah told the massive gathering at the roadshow.

He said the yearning was not about changing a political leader but “getting rid of corruption, political violence, extortion and Bangladeshi infiltration”.

Union Minister Amit Shah paid homage to Rabindranath Tagore during a visit to the Vishva-Bharati on Sunday, crediting the Nobel laureate for turning Shantiniketan into a centre for cultural exchanges.

He said that as the Vishva-Bharati nears its centenary year, Tagore’s teachings should spread across the world, helping Indian knowledge and culture achieve international acclaim through his works.

“Tagore has not only enriched the philosophy and literature of India, but also made Shantiniketan a base for connecting Indian culture with that of many other countries,” Shah told reporters at the end of his two-hour-long visit to the central university.

He said the bard’s teachings point to the fact that the purpose of education is to overcome narrowness and know the truth.

Talking about Tagore’s contribution to the freedom movement, he said that there were two views of nationalism, the chief proponents of which were Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, and both derived their inspiration from the same source.

“I firmly believe that it was not the Nobel prize that acknowledged Tagores works, but it found its own acknowledgement by honouring Tagore,” Shah said.

The home minister said the Nobel laureate had also endeavoured for upliftment of villages along with betterment of healthcare and cleanliness.

On reaching the university, Shah paid floral tributes to the statue of Tagore at Rabindra Bhawan.

After being shown around the Uttarayan complex where Tagore lived when he was at Shantiniketan, Shah went to the ‘Upasana Griha’ (prayer house). He then went to the Sangeet Bhavan, where the university students greeted him with a cultural programme that included folk songs and songs written by the bard.He also interacted with all the performers following the programme.

New Delhi, Dec 20 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday made a surprise visit to the Gurudwara Rakabganj here early morning and paid tributes to Guru Tegh Bahadur for his supreme sacrifice, expressing “I felt extremely blessed”. People of the Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee were surprised to see Modi present in the premises. There was neither any security, nor barricading arrangements made on the roads during the Prime Minister’s unscheduled visit.

Like a common man he moved in the Gurudwara, and shocked everyone by his visit without any pre-scheduled programme.

Modi’s sudden visit to the Gurudwara comes a day after the ninth Sikh Guru’s death anniversary was observed on Saturday.

In a tweet after the visit, the Prime Minister said: “This morning, I prayed at the historic Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, where the pious body of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji was cremated. I felt extremely blessed.

I, like millions around the world, am deeply inspired by the kindnesses of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji.” “It is the special Kripa of the Guru Sahibs that we will mark the special occa-

Modi visits Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib on the occasion of the 400th Parkash Parv of Guru Tegh Bahadur. (PTI)

sion of the 400th Parkash Parv of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji during our Government’s tenure. Let us mark this blessed occasion in a historic way and celebrate the ideals of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji,” the Prime Minister further said.

Sources say that during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, special care was taken so that the people do not face any inconvenience because on Sunday, the number of

visitors is quite high. That is why there was no such highlevel security as is usually the case, sources say.

Modi’s sudden visit to the Gurudwara comes amid the agitation organised by the farmers of Punjab in the national Capital, which may be seen as a move to placate them. However, the BJP leaders say that the PM’s visit is a matter of pure faith and should not be seen from any other perspective.

Day after meeting rebels, Cong Delay in victim’s med examination led Cold day conditions AAP’s Raghav Chadha made begins reshuffle in four states to evidence loss: CBI on Hathras case in parts of UP Punjab unit’s co-incharge NEW DELHI, DEC 20 (AGENCIES): A day after the Gandhis met Congress rebels who had called for changes in the party’s organisational structure, the party has begun an overhaul in its leadership in four states– Telangana, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. According to The Federal, two state unit chiefs – Uttar Kumar Reddy (Telangana) and Amit Chavada (Gujarat) – of the Congress have so far quit their posts following their poor performances in the recent Hyderabad local body polls and Gujarat bypolls.

Three All-India Congress Committee (AICC) secretaries have been appointed by Mrs. Sonia Gandhi each for Assam and Kerala, who will be assisting the general secretaries in-charge of these states for their upcoming state assembly next year.

Kamal Nath, former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh and state party chief, has reportedly played an important role in making the top leadership meet the 23 rebels who had triggered an apparent in-party crisis

by writing to the Congress interim chief Sonia Gandhi in August with several demands. Their demands included a full-time, visible president and overhauling of the organisational structure including polls to the Congress Working Committee and reconstitution of the Parliamentary board.

These rebels included senior Congress leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad and Shashi Tharoor.

Saturday’s meeting saw participation of Sonia Gandhi, former party chief Rahul Gandhi and leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and both their aides and letter-writers. Kamal Nath, Tharoor, Azad were among those present at the meeting besides former minister P Chidambaram.

The meeting was the first in a series of such discussions scheduled over the next 10 days during which it is expected that the Congress leadership will hear out the concerns of the rebel leaders and address them.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, the party also made changes in Mumbai Regional Congress Committee.

LUC K N OW, D E C 2 0 (AGENCIES): Cops at the Chandapa police station who were first approached by the Hathras victim’s family after the alleged gangrape didn’t follow the laid down procedures of recording the statement and sending the girl for medical examination, the Central Bureau of Investigation has reportedly said in its chargesheet in the case.

The CBI has based its charges on the victim’s statement on September 22, which was considered as her ‘dying declaration’, in which she accused four youths of her village of raping and trying to strangulate her.

The accused were unable to provide convincing alibis that they were not present at the scene of the crime at the time of the incident.

Reacting to the charges of lapses, a senior police official said that five cops, including the SP, were suspended, as soon as the government came to know about their negligence. “Our probe was going in the right direction and all four accused were arrested imme-

diately after the girl named them. The CBI took our FIR which had all the sections under which the accused have been charged,” he said.

Also, it was the UP government which recommended the CBI probe without any demand from the victim’s family, he added.

As per exclusive details available with TOI, the chargesheet, filed at a special court in Hathras, has pointed out that cops at the local Chandpa police station made the mistake of not properly recording the victim’s statement as per the mandate of Section 154 of the CrPC, when she and her family first reached to report the crime on September 14.

No woman officer, SHO at police stn examined victim: CBI report The CBI report states that while the FIR lodged by the victim’s brother said that ‘the accused Sandeep tried to strangulate her with an intention to kill her’ the girl in one of the recordings, had mentioned ‘zabardasti’ (molestation, using force) but still she was not sent for medical examination and

valuable forensic evidence couldn’t be saved.

The chargesheet also mentions that no woman officer or the station house officer at Chandapa police station bothered to examine the victim till September 19. The CBI team has also pointed out that on September 19, in another statement, the victim mentioned the term “chedhkhani” (teasing), but she was not sent for medical examination. “...neither Section 354 (use of force with intention to rape) of the IPC or Section 376 (rape) of the IPC was added by the police in the beginning...,” the chargesheet mentions.

It was only on September 22, when she explicitly said “balatkar” (rape) in her statement at Aligarh hosital and mentioned the four accused that she was sent for medical examination, the CBI has said. In its concluding remarks, the central agency says: “The above negligence during the handling of the case by police as well as concerned authorities clearly led to delay in examination of victim...”.

Lu c kn ow, D e c 2 0 (PTI): Cold day conditions occurred at a few places in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, the Meteorological Department said.

Muzaffarnagar was the coldest place in the state at 2.0 degrees Celsius. Lucknow recorded a low of 4.0 degrees Celsius, while Allahabad’s minimum temperature settled at 6.2 degrees Celsius.

Bareilly recorded 3.3 degrees Celsius, while Churk (Sonbhadra) recorded a low of 3.0 degrees Celsius. Mercury fell to 5.2 degrees Celsius in Meerut, and to 5.6 degrees Celsius in Varanasi.

Kanpur recorded a low of 4.2 degrees Celsius.

Cold wave conditions occurred at isolated places and dense fog engulfed parts of the state.

Cold wave conditions are very likely to occur at isolated places and dense fog is very likely at a few places over the state on December 21. Weather is most likely to remain dry and shallow to moderate fog is very likely in the morning at isolated places over the state on December 22 and December 23.

New Delhi, Dec 20 (IANS): Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday assigned additional responsibility of co-incharge of Punjab unit to party’s national spokesperson Raghav Chadha.

Kejriwal said he has a keen grasp on the ground issues of Punjab and ably put forward the party’s views on several important issues, including the current burning issue of the three farm bills.

“The Aam Aadmi Party is hopeful of Chadha’s immense organisational capability to carry forward the party’s ideals in Punjab.”

Kejriwal mentioned that people of Punjab are tired and angry with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress and Akali Dal, accusing that each of these parties have together “cheated innocent farmers”.

“In such a precarious situation, the presence of Chadha is expected to increase the confidence of AAP Punjab unit manifold.”

Raghav Chadha (File)

Satisfied with the work of Chadha after being given charge of Vice Chairman of Delhi Jal Board, Kejriwal gave him the new responsibility.

MLA from Rajinder Nagar, Chadha has been with the party before its inception, and has been instrumental in drafting the Lokpal Bill as well. He is the youngest national spokesperson for the AAP and among the youngest spokesperson across parties.

On being appointed as the co-incharge of party’s Punjab unit, Chadha thanked Kejriwal for instilling such confidence in him and ensured to give best in strengthening the party’s position in Punjab.

DMK launches “werejectadmk” India’s COVID-19 active caseload further drops to 3.05 lakh campaign in poll-bound Tamil Nadu

political ventures as part of a “conspiracy.” The DMK, out of power since 2011, is making a full throttled bid to storm back and dethrone the AIADMK. Incidentally, the DMK initiative came a day after Chief Minister K Palaniswami launched his poll campaign from his native Edapadi in Salem district, urging the people to ensure a resounding win for his party and facilitate continuity of its “good service” to them.

Stalin in his video message claimed: “Entire Tamil Nadu has been affected due to the lack of governance of the AIADMK government.

From towns to rural areas, there is a complete collapse.

“To remove this government that is working against all Tamils, about 1,600 DMK leaders will

New Delhi, Dec 20 (PTI): The COVID-19 active caseload in India has dropped to 3.05 lakh, comprising just 3.04 per cent of the total infections as on date, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.

This has been made possible by the trend of recoveries exceeding new cases and low number of fatalities per day which have ensured a total net reduction of the active caseload, the ministry underlined.

The new recoveries of 29,690 in a span of 24 hours have led to a net decline of 3,407 in the total active cases, it said.

The ministry said that ten states and UTs including Maharashtra, Kerala, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and

Karnataka account for 66 per cent of the total active cases in the country.

The country registered 26,624 new infections in a span of 24 hours.

“The daily new cases have been less than 40,000 since the last 21 days continuously,” the ministry highlighted.

The total recovered cases are nearing 96 lakh (9,580,402).

The difference in the new recoveries outnumbering new cases has also improved the recovery rate to 95.51 per cent, the ministry stated.

Of the new recovered cases, 74.68 per cent are observed to be concentrated in 10 States and UTs.

DC-853

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SHEYIPU COMMUNITY WELFARE DIMAPUR FELICITATION The Sheyipu Community Welfare Dimapur heartily congratulate Gideon L. Sema, S/o Lutovi Sema on his promotion to the post of District Employment Officer, Dimapur, Department of Employment, Skills Development and Entrepreneurship.

With contentment and pride, the Community wishes him good luck in his new promotion.

KAKUGHA ZHIMOMI LAKATO ZHIMOMI Chairman General Secretary

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M K Stalin (File)

visit over 16,000 villages and wards with the charge sheet of “werejectadmk”, hold gram sabha meetings and adopt resolutions,” he added. The gram sabha meetings are scheduled from December 23 to January 10, the party said. Stalin said an exclusive website has been created for this purpose and invited members of public to “adopt the resolution online” as well.

The opposition party will highlight issues such as the National-Entrancecum-Eligibility Test related suicides of S Anitha of Ariyalur, which triggered an outrage against the exam, and some other medical aspirants, allegations of corruption against the AIADMK, issues faced by farmers and unemployed youth and the law and order situation.

DMK leaders, including Udhayanidhi Stalin and Kanimozhi, have already hit the campaign trail while Stalin has been addressing virtual meetings ahead of the state polls, the first after the demise of the party patriarch M Karunanidhi and AIADMK supremo and late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.

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Chennai, Dec 20 (PTI): Months ahead of assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, principal opposition DMK on Sunday launched a campaign against arch-rival AIADMK on what it called “lack of governance” by the Palaniswami government and touching sensitive issues such as the NEET-related suicides. The party’s campaign launched on Sunday is titled “werejectadmk” and the DMK released a video, flagging issues in sectors like agriculture and education as it urged people to defeat the AIADMK in the elections, likely in coming April-May. In the video, released during a meeting of DMK’s key office-bearers, including district secretaries, party chief M K Stalin said senior party functionaries will visit over 16,000 villages and wards to conduct “gram sabhas” where resolutions will be adopted against the AIADMK government as part of the campaign.

At the meeting, Stalin set a target of winning 200 seats for his party office-bearers and claimed DMK was facing attacks from many fronts, including “some being forced” to start their own

8

Nagaland Post, Dimapur monDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020 business/state Patton condolence Reliance to build ‘largest NRL signs MoU DIMAPUR: Deputy chief with OIL minister, Y.Patton has exzoo in world’ in Gujarat

Pradhan dedicates WB’s first oil reserve

Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Steel Dharmendra Pradhan holds crude oil in a measuring beaker during inauguration of Bengal’s first oil and gas reserve, at Ashoknagar in North 24 Parganas, Sunday. (PTI) Ashoknagar (WB), Dec 20 (PTI): West Bengal found a place in the oil map of India as Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday dedicated an oil and gas producing field in North 24 Parganas district to the nation.

He said production from the petroleum reserve here, about 47 km from Kolkata, has started with extracted oil being sent to Haldia refinery of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC).

“With the commence-

ment of production from the Ashoknagar oil and gas reserve, West Bengal finds a place in the oil map,” he said after inaugurating the project.

The first proven reserve of oil and gas in the state was discovered in 2018.

The Ashoknagar field, which falls under the Mahanadi-Bengal-Andaman (MBA) basin, has been proved to be commercially viable, he said.

PSU major ONGC had spent Rs 3,381 crore for

discovery of the Ashoknagar oilfield, he said, adding that two more wells will be explored by the company under Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OLAP).

The minister said crude oil discovered at the Ashoknagar reserve is of high quality.

He said commercial production from the oilfield will increase West Bengal’s revenue and create job opportunities in the state.

The petroleum and natural gas minister said

this would be the eighth hydrocarbon producing basin of India, and ONGC took “a step by commencing oil production under the early monetisation plan of the government”.

The Centre had issued guidelines for early monetisation of hydrocarbon discoveries.

The Directorate General of Hydrocarbons had said companies can straight away start commercial production from any oil and gas discovery without undergoing the time- consuming procedure of government approvals for field development plans and other bureaucratic processes.

“The project would be a step towards our commitment to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clarion call for reducing 10 per cent oil import by 2022,” Pradhan said.

He urged the local people to cooperate with the Maharatna PSU for oil and natural gas exploration work and said they would benefit from the project.

ONGC chairman and managing director Shashi Shanker along with other directors of the company were present on the occasion.

pressed grief over the demise of Rev. N.T Murry, former Executive Secretary of Lotha Baptist Churches Association. In a condolence note, Patton said late Murry was a pastor, an educator and translator of the Holy Bible in Lotha dialect. He was involved with various Lotha literature committees and their activities and also served the church in different capacities, Patton said. The dy. chief minister said his demise death was a great loss to the Lothas and the Christian community.

Patton and his wife further conveyed sympathies to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

NPA condoles

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Press Association (NPA) expressed pain at the untimely demise of late N Asenla, wife of Lanuonen Longkumer, Staff of Tir Yimyim, who passed away on December 20. NPA in a condolence note conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed to Almighty God to grant them strength to bear the loss and that the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

AHMEDABAD, DEC 20 (AGENCIES): Reliance Industries Ltd will build what it claims to be the world’s largest zoo in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, a top company executive confirmed on Saturday.

The zoo will house close to 100 different species of animals, birds and reptiles from India and across the world, reports Times.

A pet project of Anant Ambani, RIL chairman Mukesh Ambani’s youngest son, the zoo will be built on about 280 acres of land close to the company’s refinery project at Moti Khavdi near Jamnagar, the world’s largest oil refining complex where it operates a petrochemicals project as well. The zoo is expected to open for public in the next two years if the project, which was delayed due to Covid-19, doesn’t face any further postponement, the executive said.

“It will be called ‘Greens Zoological, Rescue & Rehabilitation Kingdom’. All the required approvals from concerned central and state government authorities have already been obtained,” said Parimal Nathwani, RIL director (corporate affairs).

The zoo will have sec-

tions like ‘Forest of India’, ‘Frog House’, ‘Insect Life’, ‘Dragon’s Land’, ‘Exotic Island’, ‘Wild Trail of Gujarat’ and ‘Aquatic Kingdom’ among others, as per the plan layout shared on the Central Zoo Authority’s website. Various species, including barking deers, slender loris, sloth bears, fishing cats, komodo dragons, Indian wolves and Rosy pelicans are proposed to be attractions of the zoo, which will also house six each of crowned cranes, jaguars and African lions, besides 12 ostriches, 20 giraffes, 18 meerkats, 10 spectacled caiman, seven cheetahs, African elephants and nine Great Indian Bustards. The frog house will have about 200 amphibians while the aquatic kingdom will house around 350 fishes.

“We are aware of RIL’s interest and passion for wildlife and its conservation.

While not fully aware of the project details, I’m sure it will set a good example for private participation in wildlife conservation,” said Soumitra Dasgupta, additional directorgeneral of forests (wildlife), ministry of environment, forest and climate change.

Guwahati, Dec 20 (PTI): Numaligarh Refinery Ltd on Sunday said it has signed an MoU with Oil India Ltd to augment the existing pumping capacity of the latter through its pipeline.

This will help OIL to increase product evacuation from 1.72 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) to 5.50 mmtpa through Numaligarh-Siliguri pipeline.

The MoU, signed on Saturday by NRL head (project pipeline) M K Pegu and OIL pipeline CGM(OPS) Sandip Goswami, will help NRL in product evacuation after refinery expansion.

Accordingly, OIL will replace NRL as project proponent for monitoring of the product pipeline project under National Infrastructure Projects (NIP).

The capacity enhancement of the pipeline that carries petro products is expected to be commissioned by 2024 to synchronise with the commissioning of the Numaligarh Refinery Ltd mega refinery expansion project from the existing 3 mmtpa to 9 mmtpa.

Wistron fires executive over violence at Karna unit Odisha gears up to set up Rs 4,000

crore Mahanadi Riverine Port project

KAKURO

No. 4401 Yesterday’s solution No. 4400

No. 3425 Yesterday’s solution No. 3424

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will have the capacity to handle 22 MTPA cargo at an investment of Rs 2,562 core, an official said.

While the Paradip Port Trust will develop supporting project infrastructures like rail and road connectivity and dredging requirements of the facility, the state government has already identified 300 hectares of land for the project.

The state government will also provide the necessary support to PPT in respect of any additional land required for the project, the official said, adding that Odisha in 2018 had decided to go ahead with Mahanadi Riverine Port.

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The Ministry of Port, Shipping and Waterways has already agreed to the Odisha government’s proposal for the riverine port to be developed by Paradip Port Trust at an investment of Rs 4,000 crore. The project is estimated to generate employment for 6,000 people.

The proposed port will come up at Akhadasali village under Mahakalapada block in Kendrapara district, 13 km from the river mouth at Paradip.

This all-weather and multi-user port on river Mahanadi will be set up in public-private-partnership (PPP) mode with a capacity of 54 MTPA at an investment of Rs 4,000 crore.

In the first phase, the port

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20 (PTI): Ahead of signing of the MoU with the Centre for setting up of Rs 4,000 crore riverine port project in Mahanadi, a high-level delegation on Sunday visited the proposed site in Odisha’s Kendrapara district, officials said.

The delegation comprising Chief Secretary A K Tripathy, Paradip Port Trust (PPT) chairman Rinkesh Roy and others travelled to the proposed site on a vessel.

Local MLA of Mahakalapada Atanu S Nayak was present at the proposed port site. He had a discussion with officials about the project while Kendrapara district collector Samarth Verma apprised the delegation about the importance

DP-5613

new business from Apple before they complete corrective actions. Apple employees, along with independent auditors, will monitor their progress. Our main objective is to make sure all the workers are treated with dignity and respect, and fully compensated promptly,” Apple said. Over 160 people have been arrested by the police in connection with the violence during which stones were hurled, windows and doors were broken and vehicles in the parking lot were overturned and set on fire. Video footage of the attack had flooded the social media.

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Apple, in a separate statement, said it has have placed Wistron on probation and that the contract manufacturer will not receive any new business from the US-based company before corrective actions are completed. Apple is also undertaking a detailed investigation in this matter.

Apple said while these investigations are ongoing, preliminary findings indicate violations of its Supplier Code of Conduct by failing to implement proper working hour management processes that led to payment delays for some

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the processes put in place to manage labour agencies and payments, need to be strengthened and upgraded and that it is taking “immediate action to correct this, including disciplinary action”. Wistron has increased its headcount from 2,000 in the middle of this year to around 9,000 recently. “Our top priority is to ensure all workers are fully compensated immediately and we are working hard to achieve that,” Wistron said. The company said it has established an employee assistance programme for workers at the facility, and has set up a 24-hour griev-

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New Delhi, Dec 20 (PTI): A week after violence broke out at its Narasapura facility in Karnataka, contract manufacturer Wistron on Saturday said it has fired its vice-president who was heading India operations even as iPhone maker Apple placed the Taiwanese firm on probation.

Wistron, which assembles the latest version of the iPhone SE at the violence-hit plant, admitted that there were faults in its wage payment processes.

A section of workers at Wistron Corporation’s facility in Narasapura Industrial Area in Kolar district near

Vice President who oversees our business in India.

We are also enhancing our processes and restructuring our teams to ensure these issues cannot happen again,” the Apple’s contract manufacturer, Wistron, said in a statement. While Wistron did not name the executive removed, sources said Vincent Lee has been fired.

Wistron said the company has been investigating the matter and has “found that some workers were not paid correctly, or on time”.

“We deeply regret this and apologise to all of our workers. This is a new facility and we recognise that

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9

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Nepal PM Oli gets Parl dissolved

Thimphu goes Pak govt cancels licences of 50 pilots into complete ISLAMABAD, DEC 20 The Pakistan govlockdown (PTI): Nepal, Jhalanath Khanal minister Dr Baburam Bhaternment has cancelled the

Opposition cries foul over controversial move KATHMANDU, DEC 20 (PTI): Nepal’s embattled Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli on Sunday sprang a surprise on his rivals and got the President to dissolve Parliament, a controversial move amidst a prolonged tussle for power between him and former premier Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda”.

President Bidya Devi Bhandari dissolved Parliament’s House of Representatives at Oli’s recommendation and announced mid-term general election in April-May, a decision criticised by the Opposition as unconstitutional.

Earlier, an emergency meeting of the Cabinet chaired by Oli decided to recommend the President for the dissolution of Parliament, a senior Standing Committee member of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) told PTI. The first phase of the mid-term election will be held on April 30 and May 10 for the second phase, according to a notice issued by the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The 275-member House of Representatives, which is the lower house of Parliament, was elected in 2017 for a five-year term.

The upper house is the National Assembly.

The move comes as

K P Sharma Oli

the intra-party feud reached climax in the ruling NCP which has been witnessing months long tussle between two factions, one led by 68-year-old Oli and Party’s chairman and another led by 66-year-old “Prachanda”, also the executive chair of the party and former premier.

Spokesperson of the ruling NCP Narayankaji Shrestha has termed Oli’s move as “undemocratic, anti-constitutional and autocratic”.

He said that the ruling party will hold its Standing Committee meeting to discuss the matter.

Senior leader of the ruling NCP and former prime minister Madhav Kumar Nepal has termed the move as unconstitutional.

Leaders of the ruling NCP have gathered at Prachanda’s residence to discuss Oli’s decision.

“The leaders have consulted about the problems caused by the decision of PM Oli,” said Prachanda’s press advisor Bishnu Sapkota said, adding that Madhav

and Narayan Kaji Shrestha among others were present in the meeting.

Prachanda and other party leaders will be visiting the Prime Minister’s residence to hold talks on the recent political development.

Prachanda had visited Oli’s residence on Sunday morning as well, but he had returned without meeting the Prime Minister, The Rising Nepal reported.

Meanwhile, constitutional experts have termed the move to dissolve Parliament as unconstitutional.

As per the provision of Nepal’s Constitution, there is no provision of dissolving Parliament by the Prime Minister of a majority government, they said, adding that Oli’s move is likely to be challenged in the court.

As long as there is a possibility of forming the government, there is no provision to dissolve the House, said constitutional expert Dinesh Tripathi.

Another constitutional expert Bhimarjun Acharya said Oli’s recommendation to dissolve the House was a constitutional coup.

“The Nepalese Constitution doesn’t allow the PM to go for a mid-term election by dissolving the House of Representatives if there is the possibility of forming the government from within Parliament,” he said.

Terming Oli’s move “unconstitutional and irresponsible”, former prime

Nine killed in Kabul explosion

People gather near the site of a deadly bombing attack in Kabul, Afghanistan, Sunday. (AP/PTI)

KABUL, DEC 20 (IANS): At least nine people killed and 15 others injured after an explosion rocked Kabul on Sunday, police in the Afghan capital confirmed.

The explosion took place in the city’s Spin Kalay square in Police District 5 (PD5), reports Khaama Press.

Ferdaws Faramarz, deputy spokesman of the Interior Ministry, said three vehicles caught fire at the location of the blast, but the cause remains unclear.

The explosion targeted the vehicle of Haji Khan Mohammad Wardak, a member of parliament

from Kabul.

Wardak survived the attack.

No group or individual has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Kabul has witnessed a series of attacks in recent weeks.

On December 15, Mahbubullah Muhibi, a senior Afghan official, and his office assistant were killed following an explosion after an improvised sticky bomb attached to his vehicle was detonated near the city’s Makroryane-Char locality.

Two days before, at

least two people were killed and two others injured in a bomb blast that targeted the vehicle of MP Mohammad Tawfiq Wahdat near Hotel-e-Parwan in Police District 15.

Wahdat was not in the vehicle at the time of the blast.

On December 12, at least one person was killed and two others were injured after 10 rockets were fired into different parts of Kabul city.

On November 21, at least 23 rockets were fired on different parts of the city that killed eight civilians.

tarai said: “By inviting political uncertainty like before, this decision has torn apart our effort to improve the system from the Constitution Assembly. This is against democratic values and the constitution.

The main Opposition Nepali Congress (NC) has called an emergency meeting of the party on Sunday.

The move comes a day after the NC and the Rastriya Janata Party decided to ask the President for summoning a Special Session of Parliament.

NC president and former prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba recently came down heavily upon the Oli government for its “attempts to impose oneparty totalitarian rule in the country.”

The Prachanda and Madhav Nepal faction had been urging Oli to quit the post of Prime Minister amidst growing accusation and counter-accusation between the two factions in the ruling NCP. On November 13, in his 19-page political document presented at the NCP’s Secretariat meeting, Prachanda criticised Oli for failing to properly run both the government and the party, and even accused Oli of corruption.

Oli, known for his proChina leanings, however, denied the allegations and challenged Prachanda to legally prove the graft charges or apologise.

T H I M P H U, D E C 2 0 (IANS): Thimphu, the capitalof Bhutan, went into a complete lockdown on Sunday after a 25-year-old woman, who visited a flu clinic at the National Referral Hospital in the city, tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Prime Minister Lotay Tshering announced the lockdown within Thimphu city with immediate effect and asked everyone to remain home, reports Xinhua news agency.

Ts h e r i n g s a i d a l l outbound travellers from Thimphu are restricted and only emergencies and important movements into the capital city will be considered and allowed.

He said the Health Ministry would be conducting intensive contact tracing.

The lockdown is expected to enable health officials to trace and test all possible contacts.

“A primary contact had also travelled to various places in western and central parts of the country with multiple stops on the way,” said the Prime Minister.

Depending on the degree of transmission, relaxations will be initiated over the coming days.

The Prime Minister also announced that there would be no deliveries for 72 hours as there is a complete lockdown.

licences of 50 pilots for flying with fake credentials and authorities will probe how they obtained the certificates through unfair means, the country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has informed a top court here.

The issue of fake licences surfaced in the wake of the tragic crash of a Pakistan International Airlines plane in Karachi on May 22, killing 97 people, when Minister of Aviation Ghulam Sarwar Khan told the media that 260 of the country’s 860 active pilots had either fake licences or had cheated in their exams.

Their names were made public to avoid any negative impression about other pilots, including those working outside Pakistan.

Dawn newspaper reported that authorities told the Islamabad high court that under the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation, they have reviewed licences of 860 commercial pilots and cancelled 50 of them after a thorough scrutiny.

The pilots were working for the national flag carrier PIA as well as other Pakistani private and foreign airlines, said a report filed by Additional Attorney General Tariq Mehmood Khokhar in response to a petition submitted by pilot Syed Saqlain Haider,

Representational image.

whose credentials have been found to be fake.

According to the report, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been given the task to proceed against the pilots who managed to get licences through unfair means.

A CAA report said the process of verification of 259 licences had been completed.

After due process, on July 6, a summary for cancellation of licences of 28 pilots was submitted to the federal cabinet, which approved it the next day.

The petitioner’s name has been included in the list of the 28 pilots.

On September 11, another summary for cancellation of licences of 22 other pilots was submitted to the cabinet, which approved it on 15.

According to the CAA report, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, the United Nations agency which oversees safety of the international aviation industry, in a let-

ter dated September 18 recommended review of all existing licences.

As a result, licences of 860 active pilots were reviewed, of which 262 were deemed suspect and suspended.

However, after verification, 172 licences were cleared and 50, including the petitioner’s licence, failed verification and were cancelled with the approval of the cabinet.

The report said licences of two other pilots were cancelled prior to the inquiry into the matter.

Licences of 32 other pilots also failed verification and currently remain suspended.

Three pilots had died before the inquiry was conducted.

Verification of licences of the remaining three pilots is still under process, the report said.

The scandal led to a huge embarrassment for Pakistan and the PIA, and the European Union (EU) banned its flights.

Macron’s condition Taiwan up security as Chinese carrier passes island ‘stable’ after China has previously said that such trips by its Covid-19 diagnosis carriers through the strait PARIS, DEC 20 (IANS): French President Emmanuel Macron’s health condition is “stable” after he tested positive for the novel coronavirus last week, the Elysee Presidential Palace said in a statement.

“The medical condition of the President is stable... He presents similar Covid-19 symptoms which do not prevent him from fulfilling his obligations,” Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying on Saturday. Macron started working in self-isolation from an official residence outside Paris on December 17 after the diagnosis established by “RT-PCR tests carried out as soon as the first symptoms appeared”, said his office. On December 18, the President said in a live video on Twitter that he was doing fine but was working at a slower pace. Following Macron’s diagnosis, a host European leaders went into quarantine as they came in contact with the President in recent days. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who met Macron on December 14 during an Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) event in Paris, will quarantine until December 24.

Navy officers march during the official ceremony for the new Tuo Chiang-class corvettes in Yilan, Taiwan, December 15, 2020. (Reuters)

TAIPEI, DEC 20 (AGENCIES): Taiwan’s navy and air force were deployed on Sunday as a Chinese aircraft carrier group led by the country’s newest carrier, the Shandong, sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, the day after a U.S. warship transited the same waterway.

While it is not the first time China’s carriers have passed close to Taiwan, it comes at a

time of heightened tension between Taipei and Beijing, which claims the democratically-ruled island as its territory.

Taiwan has complained of repeated Chinese military activity, including China’s regular flying of air force aircraft near the island. China says such drills are aimed at protecting the country’s sovereignty.

Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said the Shan-

dong, which was formally commissioned almost exactly one year ago, accompanied by four warships had set out from the northern Chinese port of Dalian on Thursday.

After passing through the narrow Taiwan Strait on Sunday, the carrier group was continuing in a southerly direction, it added. China’s Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

are routine missions, often on their way to exercises in the disputed South China Sea. Taiwan’s ministr y said that six warships and eight air force aircraft were sent to “stand guard” and monitor the Chinese ships’ movements.

“With the support of the people, the national armed forces have the confidence and ability to guard the homeland, and ensure national security and safeguard regional peace and stability,” it added.

On Saturday, a U.S. warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait, the 12th such mission by the U.S. Navy this year.

China’s military said it tailed the ship.

Beijing has been angered by increased U.S. support for Taiwan, including new arms sales and visits to Taipei by senior U.S. officials, further straining already poor Sino-U.S. ties.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is overseeing a revamp of the island’s military, rolling out new equipment such as “carrier killer” stealth corvettes.

Uganda’s 2nd Nepal to issue licenses for mountaineering guides Deputy PM dies KATHMANDU, DEC 20 (IANS): In a first, the Nepal government has decided to issue licenses for mountaineering guides to climb the Himalayan mountains.

To date, based on the recommendation of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, an institution comprising several stakeholders in the mountaineering sector, the government had allowed the guides to travel with the mountaineers, reports Xinhua news agency.

“We are issuing the licenses to the mountaineering guides for the first time.

The licensed guides will be responsible for helping the mountaineers to climb the country’s mountains,” Meera Acharya, undersecretary at the Department of Tourism, which issues

mountaineering permits, told Xinhua.

She said that a notice will be issued regarding the criteria to obtain a license in the next few days.

“The policy will be implemented right after the notice is issued,” she said.

According to Ang Tshering Sherpa, former President of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, there are over 8,000

mountaineering guides in the country.

After receiving names of potential mountaineering guides from expedition agencies, the association recommends the names to the Nepali government for approval to work as guides for expeditions.

Most of the mountaineering guides are from Nepal’s Sherpa community, which is world-famous

for mountain climbing.

Mingma Sherpa, the chairperson of Seven Summit Treks, one of the leading mountaineering expedition companies in Nepal, said that the government needs to issue different categories of licenses based on the experiences and expertise of the climbing guides.

“Issuing the same licenses to all the mountaineering guides would not be practical as a guide who has climbed Mt. Everest several times and one who has not climbed any tall mountains, could not be compared,” he said.

According to Nepal’s Department of Tourism, it issued permits to 2,166 climbers to summit mountains in in 2019, and 985 had succeeded in climbing them successfully.

Skirmish along Ethiopia-Sudan of Covid-19: Prez border won’t break historic ties: Ahmed

KAMPALA, DEC 20 (IANS): Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni announced that the country’s second Deputy Prime Minister Ali Kirunda Kivejinja died of the novel coronavirus at a hospital in the capital Kampala.

Addressing his 20212026 re-election campaign rally in the western city of Hoima, Museveni said on Saturday that Kivejinja who had been admitted at Mulago National Referral Hospital intensive care unit succumbed to the virus, reports Xinhua news agency.

“It’s very sad. Kirunda Kivejinja has died. We have been telling people that this COVID-19 is a killer but people have been joking,” said Museveni.

ADDIS ABABA, DEC 20 (IANS): Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said recent border skirmishes along the Ethiopia-Sudan border areas “will not break” the historic ties between the two neighbouring countries.

“The government is closely following the incident with local militia on the Ethio-Sudan border,” Xinhua news agency quoted Ahmed as saying in a Twitter post on Saturday.

He emphasized that “such incidents will not break the bond between our two countries as we always use dialogue to resolve issues”. “Those fanning discord clearly do not understand the strength of our historical ties,” he added.

Abiy Ahmed

On Wednesday, the Sudanese army said Ethiopian militias attacked its forces on the border between the two countries.

“On Tuesday evening when our forces were about to finish combing the area around Jebel Abu Tiour inside our territories and return, they were ambushed

by the Ethiopian militias,” said the Sudanese army in a statement.

“There were losses in lives and equipment,” the army added. The border area between Sudan and Ethiopia often witnesses armed clashes by militias during the preparation for agricultural season.

Infotainment

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Santa Claus bikers parade in Tokyo against child abuse

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arley Davidson bikers dressed in Santa Claus costumes rode through the streets of central Tokyo on Sunday for their annual parade against child abuse, saying more children were vulnerable in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The parade, followed by a toy run to donate toys to kids, is a global tradition around Christmas time. In Tokyo, the event is held by members of the “Harley Santa Club”, founded in 2008.

At the parade, bikers said this year’s event meant more, because more children were vulnerable to

domestic violence during the coronavirus year.

“Especially because of the coronavirus pandemic this year, I think there are many child abuse cases out of sight,” said Takashi Mine, director of the event.

“It is very likely now that parents will take the stress out on their children after losing their jobs, so I think particularly during the pandemic we have to do the parade,” he said.

The number of child abuse cases in Japan per month rose up to 20% between January and March versus the same period last year, as more families spent

time at home because of the pandemic, the daily Asahi Shimbun reported.

The number of reported child abuse cases was a record high last year, according to the health ministry.

Normally hundreds of motorcyclists take part in the parade, but because of coronavirus only about 100 rode this year.

Still, riders proudly roared their engines to bring Christmas joy to kids living in children’s homes.

Riders plan to visit four homes in Tokyo this year to donate toys and candy to about 400 children.

(Reuters)

‘About Us’ releases their debut single ‘Loaded Love’

Pink fractures ankle, says 2020 is the gift that keeps on giving

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inger Pink survived Covid earlier this year, and now she has injured her ankle.

“As if surviving covid wasn’t enough for this poop sandwich of a year!” she wrote on Instagram alongside a photo that showed her giving a thumbs up while getting a medical treatment, reports people.com.

“Well, I got my stitches out from drying that wine glass, that went well. Then I recovered from my very first staph infection for no reason (cry for help?) (right knee was lonely?) so I thought I’d fracture my ankle!” she joked.

“Later I’m gonna climb inside a raw chicken and see if I can’t check out what salmonella’s like! 2020 is the gift that keeps on giving,” she added.

The singer went on to reveal that she injured herself while trying to get all festive.

“I was actually running down the stairs trying to see the Christmas star! Ha! Turns out it’s not until the 21st,” she wrote.

Back in April, Pink had announced that she had tested positive for coronavirus and that her son Jameson Moon was battling the virus as well.

(IANS)

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Members of AU

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agaland based Hard Rock musical band About Us (AU) has released their debut single “Loaded Love”. The band was formed in 2019 with band members coming from varied musical background and has been performing for the last 15 years or more in different bands and projects.

Their musical taste varies from Blues, Jazz, Soft, Hard rock etc. which

will be reflective in their upcoming debut project.

Years of playing covers, led to the realization for creative venture and thus was born a nascent/ Neo line-up leading to new formation and approach to musical experimentation and expression.

The band is run and managed by K. Edward Ngullie (songwriter/manager). Presently, the band is working on their self-titled

debut album. They have released their single “Loaded Love” from their upcoming album on YouTube; it will also be available on Spotify on a later date. The single was recorded and mixed at “Infinity Records”.

The band line up are Sochan Kikon - vocals, Renlamo - guitars, Ponn - guitars, Soren – bass, Lich Kithan – drums and Renbomo - keyboard.

(DIPR)

Kareena to pen guide to pregnancy

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ollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan is all set to pen her first book titled Kareena Kapoor Khan's Pregnancy Bible, which will be a comprehensive guide to pregnancy and will come out next year.

Kareena made the announcement on her son Taimur Ali Khan's fourth birthday on Sunday.

"Today is the perfect day to announce my bookKareena Kapoor Khan's Pregnancy Bible for all you moms-to-be. I'll talk about everything from morning sickness to diet and fitness and being a mom-on-thego! I can't wait for you to read it. To be published by Juggernaut Books in 2021," she wrote.

Kareena is married to Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan. The two, who are fondly called as Saifeena by their fans, got married in 2012. She gave birth to their first born, Taimur, in 2016.

She is currently expecting her second baby with Saif and she often shares photographs of her baby bump on social media.

Kareena and Saif had announced on August 12 that they are expecting their second child. The actress recently completed her shoot for the upcoming film "Laal Singh Chaddha" co-starring Aamir Khan in Delhi.

(IANS)

Eric Clapton joins Van Morrison on new song Ed Sheeran hints he is bringing new music ‘very soon’

S

E

ric Clapton has join forced with Van Morrison on a new song, the fourth track in the latter’s current series of anti-lockdown songs.

Morrison recently shared three anti-lockdown protest songs, in which he accused the government of being “fascist bullies”. ‘No More Lockdown’, ‘Born to Be Free’ and ‘As I Walked Out’ were written in opposition to the government’s coronavirus restrictions.

Now, he and Clapton have shared ‘Stand and Deliver’, a track written by Morrison and performed by Clapton that continues Morrison’s protests against lockdown. All proceeds from the song will go to Morrison’s Lockdown Financial Hardship Fund, which helps musicians facing financial insecurity as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

“Do you wanna be a free man/ Or do you wanna be a slave?” Clapton sings during the track.

Announcing the song, Clapton said: “It is deeply upsetting to see how few gigs are going ahead because of the lockdown restrictions. There are many of us who support Van and his endeavours to save live music, he is an inspiration!

“We must stand up and be counted because we need to find a way out of this mess. The alternative is not worth thinking about. Live music might never recover.”

Morrison added: “Eric’s recording is fantastic and will clearly resonate with the many who share our frustrations. It is heart-breaking to see so many talented musicians lack any meaningful support from the government, but we want to reassure them

Van Morrison and Eric Clapton perform at the Music For Marsden 2020 at The O2 Arena on March 3, 2020 in London.

that we are working hard every day to lobby for the return of live music, and to save our industry.”

Morrison’s recent comments about lockdown attracted criticism from Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann, saying the country “expected better from him”.

“Van Morrison is going way beyond raising questions,” Swann said. “He is singing about ‘fascist bullies’ and claiming governments are deceiving people and wanting to ‘enslave’. It’s actually a smear on all

Honoured to present Warren Buffett with 2020 Global Citizen Prize: Priyanka

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c t r e s s P r i ya n k a Chopra says she feels beyond honoured to celebrate and acknowledge American business tycoon Warren Buffett’s leadership, kindness, and undeniable generosity.

“I feel beyond honoured to present Warren Buffett with the 2020 Global Citizen Prize for Philanthropy. In 2006, he shocked the world and promised that he would give away almost all of his wealth to K Y M C

those in need. So far he has donated $37 billion, but he didn’t stop there,” Priyanka wrote on Instagram.

“He co-founded the Giving Pledge, calling on the world’s wealthiest to also give at least half of their net worth. He recognised that the moment to help was now, so he took action and encouraged others in his position to do the same. Today, we celebrate and acknowledge Warren’s leadership, kindness, and undeniable generosity.

Thank you... and congratulations. #GCPrize,” she added.

The awards ceremony, hosted by singer John Legend this year, recognises people working towards ending extreme poverty.

Global Citizen Prize Awards 2020 will be available for viewers in India on December 26 on Vh1 and Voot Select.

(IANS)

those involved in the public health response to a virus that has taken lives on a massive scale.”

Morrison also recently criticised the “pseudo-science” of socially distanced gigs. “This is not a sign of compliance or acceptance of the current state of affairs,” he said of his recent run of socially distanced gigs. “This is to get my band up and running and out of the doldrums. This is also not the answer going forward. We need to be playing to full capacity audiences going forward.”

(NME)

inger Ed Sheeran has been on a break for a while, and it seems like he is ready to release his new music soon.

The 29-year-old became a father in August when he welcomed his daughter Lyra Antarctic with wife Cherry Seaborn.

He announced that he would be stepping back from performing last year, in order to focus on his family life.

The singer recently took to social media to respond to speculations that he is set to make a comeback, reports dailymail.co.uk.

It all started with a fan account sharing theories about the singer’s next album. It read: “Okay so here are my thoughts about subtract and Ed coming back: “One big question is whether Ed’s 18 month break started at the end of the divide tour or when he posted the note.

“If it’s August 2019, it’s very plausible that Ed’ll be back on Christmas Eve, ‘cause we all know that that’s when he posted his note last year. I, however, feel like it’s highly unlikely that the 18 months started at the end of the divide tour.

“I first of all think that it’s too early for Ed to come back. Like he hasn’t

even been able to travel that much bcs of the rona and Lyra was only born about 4 months ago, so I reckon that he wants to spend some more time with her and Cherry.

“Stuart (Camp, his manager) said in the podcast that subtract is probably gonna come out around August 2021. If they’re still planning on releasing

it then, I just see no point in Ed already coming back in December yk.

“If his break started after his note, it would normally end in June 2021.

This just makes way more sense to me: he comes back in June with the lead single(s), release maybe one or two more singles in July (and August) and then puts out subtract in

August.

“This is obviously just a theory, but yeah I personally think he (sadly enough) won’t be back this Christmas. That’s no reason not to celebrate or look forward to that day tho cause like, IN A WEEK WE’LL L I T E R A L LY H AV E SURVIVED A WHOLE YEAR WITHOUT OUR FLUFFY BEAN LIKE HOW COOL IS THAT? “ I N E V E R THOUGHT ID MAKE IT BUT YAY HERE WE ALL ARE IM SO PROUD OF US!! There’s still a chance that he actually will come back next week, but I guess we’ll just have to wait and see,” concluded the post.

Sheeran wrote: “All very valid questions, but you’ll know at least one answer soon.”

He also posted: “lurky lurka and it’s very soon.”

In August 2019, Sheeran announced that he would be taking a break to spend time with his wife, following the end of his “Divide” tour.

(IANS)

Happy 75th Birthday “Grey hair is a crown of splendor it is attained by a righteous life” Proverbs 16:31

CELEBRATING 55 YEARS OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS (21st Dec 1965 – 21st Dec 2020)

H. AZHETO CHOPHY

TOKHUVI MURU and KIYELI ZHIMOMI

Dearest Ipu & Iza, We are grateful and thank our Almighty God for blessing us this wonderful day. Heartiest Congratulations on accomplishing 55 years of marriage. Your remarkable journey filled with love and loyalty, respect and honour has inspired us all. We are full of admiration and gratitude to see you both celebrate life and happiness.

We pray for more days like this to come. May God grant you both long life and immeasurable joy and happiness.

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Loving children, in-laws and grandchildren

Dear Dad, As you turn 75 today, we want to congratulate you on this milestone achievement. A crown well earned and well deserved. We also want to take this opportune moment to thank you for guiding, protecting, supporting and always being there for us.

And as you step into a new chapter in your life, May the good Lord grant you with all the best treasures of heaven.

Wife, Children, In-laws & Grand children DP-5682 K Y M C

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Kerala hold East Bengal 1-1 in late equaliser NZ beat Pak to clinch T20I series their slender lead till the disastrous last minute.

The 23-year-old came close to scoring first in the 66th minute when he took the possession from a Nishu Kumar from the close range but his powerful shot

ballooned over the bar.

Five minutes later, Kerala Blasters almost scored the equaliser when Sahal headed the ball to Jordan Murray inside the box and the Aussie unleashed his powerful strike.

Mumbai end Hyderabad’s unbeaten run

Match in action between Kerala Blasters and SC East Bengal on Sunday.

BAMBOLIM/ VASCO, DEC 20 (PTI/IANS): SC East Bengal’s agonising wait for their first ever Indian Super League victory continued after conceding a stoppage time goal to be held 1-1 by Kerala Blasters FC at the GMC Stadium here on Sunday.

In a battle between two winless teams, Bakary Kone’’s own goal gave SCEB a 16th minute lead.

The Kolkata giants nearly secured their maiden ISL win from six matches but there was drama and heart break in store for the Robbie Fowler-coached

side when it conceded the equaliser with less a minute left before the final whistle.

The 19-year-old Jeakson Singh headed the ball out of Debjit Majumder’’s reach from a fantastic cross

by Abdul Samad as the goal was an effort by two promising Indian substitutes who came in at the break to manage a rescue act for the Kibu Vicuna-coached side. The result meant both teams remained winless after six matches but SC East Bengal (two points) managed to came out of bottom, overtaking Odisha

FC on goal difference in the 11-team standings.

KBFC remained at ninth place with three points.

East Bengal looked the better team in the first half with Anthony Pilkington playing as sole forward making some fine raids, while Jacques Maghoma and Mohammed Rafique too made some impressive moves.

Promising youngster Sahal Abdul Samad’’s substitution at the break gave Kerala the much-needed spark in the attack but the red-and-gold maintained

A wonder-goal from Vignesh Dakshinamurthy was the highlight of the evening as Mumbai City FC beat Hyderabad FC 2-0 in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Tilak Maidan on Sunday.

In a match that saw both sides struggle to create clear-cut chances, Vignesh’s acrobatic 38th-minute strike stood out as a genuine moment of quality. Adam Le Fondre put Sergio Lobera’s men further ahead in the 59th minute as Hyderabad tasted their first defeat of the season.

The caginess that marked much of the game was evident from the fact that Vignesh’s goal was the only shot on target in the first half. With Hugo Boumous missing yet again, Mumbai’s creative struggles that plagued them in their last match against Jamshedpur, continued here as well. They had the better of Hyderabad in every parameter in the first half - they dominated possession, peppered the opposition box with crosses and completed a many more passes. But for the longest time, it looked like a goal would not come.

Whatever questions Mumbai posed, the Hyderabad defence had the answer. Vignesh’s cross in the very first minute of the game was duly dealt with. At the other end of the pitch, Aridane Santana created an opening for Mohammed Yasir, but his cut-back was intercepted by the Mumbai defence.

Monday’s Match ATK Mohun Bagan Vs Bengaluru FC Time: 7:30

ARRAYHAMILTON, DEC 20 (IANS): Rightarm pacer Tim Southee’s brilliant bowling followed by half centuries from wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Seifert and captain Kane Williamson helped New Zealand secure a comfortable nine-wicket win over Pakistan in the second T20I at the Seddon Park on Sunday.

Chasing 164, the Black Caps rode on a brilliant 84 not out from Seifert and unbeaten 57 from Williamson to comfortably chase down the target with four balls to spare.

Earlier, opting to bat, Pakistan once started poorly as they lost Haider Ali (8), Abdullah Shafique (0) and Mohammad Rizwan (22) within the first six overs with just 33 runs on the board.

Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez then tried to steady the ship.

However, wickets kept falling at other end. In the end, Hafeez remained not out on 99. During the course of his 57-ball knock, the 40-year-old smashed 10 fours and 5 sixes and helped the visitors post 163/6 -- a below par-total -- in their allotted

Players of New Zealand and Pakistan shake hands after second T20I match at the Seddon Park on Sunday.

20 overs.

Southee was pick of the New Zealand bowlers as he returned with figures of 4/21 in his four overs.

The hosts, then made easy work of the chase as they just lost the lone wicket of opener Martin Guptill who scored 21 runs from 11 balls, with the help of two 6s and a four before getting out by Faheem Ashraf before getting over the line in the final over of the match.

After his wicket, Seifert and Williamson, who

returned to the team after becoming a father recently, shared an unbeaten stand of 129 to take the team home.

Pakistan had lost the first match by five wickets in Auckland on Friday.

The two teams will now face each other in the third and final T20I in Napier on Tuesday.

Brief scores: Pakistan 163/6 (Mohammad Hafeez 99*; Tim Southee 4/21) lose to New Zealand 164/1 (Tim Seifert 84*; Faheem Ashraf 1/19)

Chelsea Federer, other top players expected for Aus Open: Tiley Stephen Thompson beats Geoff Neal women’s team then targets welterweight title in UFC hit by Covid-19

LAS VEGAS, DEC 20 (AGENCIES): Stephen Thompson says he will win the UFC welterweight title next year after beating Geoff Neal at UFC Vegas 17.

The American, 37, earned a unanimous decision at the UFC Apex, taking his record to 16-4, with one draw.

Thompson, who scored a career-best 171 significant strikes to end Neal’s seven-fight win streak, hopes to challenge for Kamaru Usman’s belt.

“’Wonderboy’ is still here, baby,” said Thompson. “That title, in 2021, it’s going to be mine. You’ll see.” Neal, 30, slipped to 13-3 while Thompson earned the Performance of the Night bonus in his first fight for 13 months.

Earlier, Jose Aldo claimed his first win in four fights with a unanimous decision against Ecuador’s Marlon Vera.

The two-time former featherweight champion, 34, is now 29-7 after enjoying his first win since

dropping down to bantamweight.

The Brazilian’s defeat

by Conor McGregor in December 2015 sparked a run of six losses in nine fights, culminating in a defeat by Petr Yan when fighting for the vacant bantamweight title in July, “Now that it’s my third fight [at bantamweight], I feel better,” said Aldo.

“I’m getting more confident at this weight. I know I have a long path, so I’m looking at it one step at a time.”

Roger Federer

that his recovery was behind schedule, but Tiley said he had been in touch with the 20-times Grand Slam champion who had begun his usual pre-season training block in Dubai.

“He said to us that Feb. 8 was a more suitable date for him in terms of preparing for the Australian Open,” Tiley added. “But a lot will depend on how he responds to his surgery in the next two to three weeks.”

The tournament will charter flights to bring all the main draw players to Australia, with qualifying taking place in Dubai and Doha. Play-

ers would undergo regular COVID-19 testing in Australia and be allowed to train for up to five hours a day, something that Tiley said had been a deal breaker.

“We would not be in a position to run the Australian Open if the players were required to stay in their hotel room for two weeks,” he said. The tournament would be played in front of crowds, with Tiley expecting them to be around 50% of the 840,000 that attended this year’s tournament.

FELICITATION

The Lekromi Village Council takes immense pleasure in congratulating WENYITSO KAPFO who has successfully completed Ph D in Botany under Nagaland University on the subject “Comparative study on plant diversity and phytosociology of Pulie Badze in wildlife sanctuary and community forest of Jotsoma.”

May this remarkable achievement continue to be a source of inspiration and blessings to our community and beyond.

Kewete Mero Meselhilo Mero Chairman Secretary Lekromi Village Council Lekromi Village Council

K-2097

Stephen Thompson (R) gives a head kick against his opponent Geoff Neal during the UFC welterweight fight in las vegas.

L O N D O N, D E C 2 0 (IANS): Sunday’s Women’s Super League match between Chelsea women’s team and Tottenham Hotspur has been postponed due to several cases of coronavirus among the Chelsea squad.

“The decision was agreed between both teams and the FA after a number of positive tests for COVID-19 were returned within the Chelsea FC Women’s team set-up after the last round of testing,” read a statement from Chelsea club’s website on Saturday, reports Xinhua news agency.

“Those affected immediately began a period of self-isolation in accordance with Public Health England and Government guidelines,” the statement added.

Chelsea is second in the Women’s Super League table, three points behind leaders Manchester United.

MELBOURNE, DEC 20 (AGENCIES): Australian Open organisers are confident they will see a full slate of the world’s top players, including six-times champion Roger Federer, at next year’s delayed opening Grand Slam. Tennis Australia and the Victorian state government said on Saturday the tournament had been pushed back three weeks to start on Feb. 8 after drawn-out negotiations over COVID-19 health security measures.

“We have a commitment from every player in the world to be in Australia,” tournament director Craig Tiley said. “Obviously it being the start of the season anything can happen with that entry list, but the commitment is there.. Every player, including Roger, have committed.” Federer had cast some doubt as to whether he would be fit enough for the tournament after he had two surgeries on a knee injury last year and missed virtually the entire playing season.

The 39-year-old Swiss told local media this month

NFL: Buffalo Bills clinch AFC East title for first time in 25 years

Team players of The Buffalo Bills.

NEW YORK, DEC 20 (AGENCIES): The Buffalo Bills became the fifth team to book a place in the NFL play-offs after clinching their first division title since 1995.

Quarterback Josh Allen threw for two touchdowns and ran for two others as the Bills won 48-19 at the Denver Broncos to move to an 11-3 record.

That clinched the AFC East title with two games of the regular season left.

The New England PaK Y M C

triots, six-time Super Bowl champions, have won the AFC East in 16 of the past 17 years.

Under head coach Sean McDermott, the Bills have now reached the play-offs in three out of four years, having ended their 17-year play-off drought in 2017.

Only Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson and Patrick Mahomes have more touchdown passes this season than Allen, who now has 30.

The 24-year-old completed 28 of 40 attempts

against Denver for 359 passing yards and rushed for 33, while Stefon Diggs had 11 receptions for 147 yards.

Devin Singletary also ran for a touchdown while Jerry Hughes had a fumble recovery for another score as the Broncos slipped to 5-9.

The Bills have won all four games since having a bye in week 11 and follow the Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints in securing a place in the post-season.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Spurs’ title hopes suffer further blow with damaging defeat

LO N D O N, D E C 2 0 (AGENCIES): Tottenham’s Premier League title hopes suffered a second significant dent in as many games as they fell to a 2-0 home defeat to Leicester City.

Looking to bounce back from the disappointment of conceding late in a 2-1 defeat to leaders Liverpool in midweek, Spurs instead saw a lacklustre performance deservedly punished.

A Jamie Vardy penalty put Leicester in front on the stroke of half-time before an own goal from Toby Alderweireld put the Foxes firmly in command.

Tottenham’s failure to find a way back into the game leaves them six points adrift of Liverpool and sees them drop to fourth, with Leicester now second and four behind the champions.

Leicester started strongly but their five shots in the

Leicester City players celebrate their goal against Tottenham Hotspurs on Sunday.

fourth minute of stoppage time after Serge Aurier had barged into the back of Wesley Fofana just inside the area. Spurs, trailing at half-time for the first time in 20 league games, threw on Gareth Bale for Tanguy Ndombele after the interval but looked to have fallen 2-0 down within three minutes of the restart when James Maddison superbly controlled James Justin’s long ball and confidently slotted beyond Hugo Lloris. However, Maddison was deemed to have strayed marginally

offside by VAR but Leicester’s lead was doubled just before the hour mark.

Vardy showed more desire than Alderweireld to attack a deep cross from Marc Albrighton and although Moussa Sissoko did to defend it, his header deflected off the his team-mate and past Lloris. Schmeichel produced a stunning reaction stop to deny Son Heungmin but Spurs struggled to threaten thereafter as Leicester stood firm to claim a win that underlines their credentials as title challengers.

Ten-man Sheffield Utd denied as Brighton grab late equaliser

Ten-man Sheffield United were denied a first win of the season when Brighton & Hove Albion’s Danny Welbeck struck late to cancel out Premier League debutant Jayden Bogle’s goal in a 1-1 draw at the Amex Arena on Sunday.

The visitors were reduced to 10 men when John Lundstram was sent off for upending Joel Veltman in

a reckless challenge in the first half, with the referee changing his decision from a yellow card to a red following a VAR review.

Brighton, yet to win at home this season, stayed 16th in the standings, two points above the relegation zone, while United remained rooted to the bottom with two points from 14 games.

opening 20 minutes yielded no reward and the first effort on target from either team did not come until the 34th minute, when Kasper Schmeichel was required to keep out a deflected free-kick from Harry Kane, who then headed over from close range. But a largely uneventful first half ended with a familiar face putting Leicester in front, Vardy firing home from 12 yards in the

India win nine medals at Cologne Boxing WC; Rijiju lauds performance

participants and winners with other officials at the Cologne Boxing World Cup held in Koln, Germany.

NEW DELHI, DEC 20 (IANS): Indian boxers won three gold medals, besides two silver and four bronze, at the recently concluded Cologne Boxing World Cup held in Koln, Germany.

“Our Indian boys and girls have won nine medals including three gold, two silver and four bonze medals at the prestigious Cologne Boxing World Cup,” Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju shared the news on his official Twitter handle on Sunday.

“India has achieved tremendous progress in boxing.

My hearty congratulations to our star bvoxers!” he added.

Ace Indian pugilists Amit Panghal (flyweight 52kg), Manisha Moun (57 kg) and Simranjit Kaur (60kg) clinched gold medals in their respective weight categories.

Sakshi Choudhary (57 kg), two-time AIBA Women’s Youth World Champion and heavy weight boxer Satish Kumar (+91kg) won the silver medals. Sonia Lather (57kg), Pooja Rani (75kg) Gaurav Solanki (57kg) and Mohamed Hussamudin (57kg) bagged bronze medals.

I admire you very much: Pele congratulates Messi

Lionel Messi

Pele

NEW DELHI, DEC 20 (IANS): Legendary footballer Pele has paid a rich tribute to Lionel Messi after the Barcelona forward equalled the Brazilian legend’s record of being the highest goalscorer ever for a single club. Messi equalled Pele’s tally of 643 goals for Santos with a header at the stroke of halftime in Barcelona’s 2-2 home draw with Valencia in LaLiga on Saturday evening.

“When your heart overflows with love, it is difficult to change your path. Like you, I know what it’s like to love wearing the same shirt every day. Like you, I know that there is nothing better than the place we feel at home,” Pele said in an Instagram post.

“Congratulations on your historic record, Lionel. But above all, congratulations on your beautiful career at Barcelona. Stories like ours, of loving the same club for so long, unfortunately, will be increasingly rare in football. I admire you very much.”

While Messi achieved the feat across 17 seasons in 748 games, Pele needed only 665 games to reach the figure. Pele, the only player to have won the World Cup three times, holds the Guinness world record for most goals in a career with 1,283, including friendlies. The 80-year-old, who played his last game for Santos in 1974, is one of the greatest players ever to grace the game. He is Brazil’s all-time highest scorer with 77 goals in 92 international matches from 1957 to 1971.

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