2 Feb 2022

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXII No. 57

DIMAPUR, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022 Pages 12 ` 5.00

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SPORTS, PAGE 11

Budget 2022: FM spurs spending to sustain economic recovery

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday unveiled a bigger Rs 39.45 lakh crore Budget, with higher spending on highways to affordable housing with a view to fire up the key engines of the economy to sustain a world-beating recovery from the pandemic.

While she primed up spending on infrastructure to create jobs and boost economic activity, Sitharaman did not tinker with income tax slabs or tax rates.

Her Budget for the fiscal year beginning April 2022 proposed a massive 35 per cent jump in capital expenditure to Rs 7.5 lakh crore, coupled with rationalisation of customs duty, an extension of time for setting up new manufacturing companies and plans for starting a digital currency and tax crypto assets.

Just like last year, the Budget gave a big boost for infrastructure spending—from 5G spectrum auction, expanding national highways by 25,000 kms, inter-linking of rivers and manufacturing of 400 new generation Vande Bharat trains. “The overall sharp rebound and recovery of the economy is reflective of our country’s strong resilience,” she said in her Budget speech in the Lok Sabha, vowing to lay the foundation for faster growth.

The Budget prioritised economic expansion over fiscal consolidation. “This Budget continues to provide the impetus for growth,” she asserted. The fiscal deficit, which unexpectedly rose to 6.9 per cent of the GDP for the current fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, is (Cont’d on p-8)

Budget 2022: What gets cheaper and what’s dearer?

Imported items and parts etc. will get expen- Acetic acid sive while a large number of commonly used Chemicals needed for petroleum products items are set to become cheaper from April. Steel scrap

WHAT’S CHEAPER

 Clothes  Gem stones and diamonds Camera lens for cellular mobile phones Mobile phones, chargers Frozen mussels, squids Asafoetida Cocoa beans Methyl alcohol

Diesel to cost `2 more from Oct 1; NE to see petrol price go up NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): Diesel in most parts of the country may cost Rs 2 per litre more from October 1 while petrol in a few places such as North East may see a price hike after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman levied additional excise duty on fuel sold without blending it with ethanol or biodiesel.

Presently, 10 per cent ethanol, extracted from sugarcane or surplus foodgrain, is blended or mixed in petrol with a view to cutting oil import dependence and provide farmers with an additional source of income.

Ethanol-blended pet-

This is it!

“You've to understand, we have political problem and so projects get delayed and costs escalate.”

K Y M C

rol is supplied in 75-80 per cent of the country as availability of ethanol and logistics hamper supply in remaining areas. On the other hand, there is only an experimental blending of biodiesel, extracted from non-edible oilseeds, in diesel.

“Blending of fuel is a priority of this Government. To encourage the efforts for blending of fuel, unblended fuel shall attract an additional differential excise duty of Rs 2 per litre from the 1st day of October 2022,” Sitharaman said in her Budget speech in the Lok Sabha.

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WHAT’S COSTLIER

Imported items Imitation Jewellery Speakers, headphones and earphones X-ray machines Umbrellas Parts of electronic toys Smart Meters, Solar modules/cells Unblended petrol and diesel

Budget is betrayal of salaried, middle class, says Cong NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (AGENCIES): The Congress on Tuesday termed the Union Budget 2022-23 announced by Financial Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as a “betrayal of India’s salaried and middle class” population for not announcing any rebates in the income tax slabs.

“India’s salaried class & middle class were hoping for relief in times of pandemic, all round pay cuts and back breaking inflation. FM & PM have again deeply disappointed them in Direct Tax measures. This is a betrayal of India’s Salaries Class & Middle Class,” Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala tweeted. While no changes were made in tax slabs, the government announced that updated income tax returns can now be filed within two years.

Former Finance minister and Congress leader P Chidambaram took a dig and the central government and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman by pointing out that the word ‘poor’ occurred only twice as she presented the Union Budget 2022 in Parliament today.

“The word ‘poor’ occurs only twice in para 6 & we thank FM for remembering that there are poor people in this country,” he said.

Chidambaram claimed that the speech by Sitharaman was the ‘most capitalist’ speech made by any finance minister. “People will reject this capitalist budget. Today's budget speech was the most capitalist speech to be ever read by an FM,” he said.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Budget had nothing for the welfare of salaried people, the middle class, the poor, the youth, farmers and micro, small and medium enterprises.

INTERNATIONAL, PAGE 9

Covid: Nagaland reports 54 Omicron cases, including 49 ‘Stealth Omicron’ Staff Reporter/Correspondent

DIMAPUR/KOHIMA, FEB 1 (NPN): Nagaland has reported 54 Omicron cases, out of which 49 were of the BA.2 sub lineage of Omicron variant of Covid-19.

The Omicron cases were detected from the 152 samples that were sent for whole genome sequencing (WGS) to Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Imphal. However, lineage of two samples could not be detected by WGS. Dubbed as BA.2, the sub-variant of Omicron (BA.1) hasn’t been classed as a variant of concern (VoC)

by World Health Organisation (WHO), popularly known as ‘Stealth Omicron’.

State nodal officer for BSL labs, research & ethics, Dr Vinotsole Tina Khamo informed principal director health & family welfare (H&FW), Dr Neikrielie Khimiao in a letter on Tuesday that results of the samples

eying similar moves. “We’re concerned that a narrative has taken hold in some countries that because of vaccines and because of omicron’s high transmissibility and lower severity, preventing transmission is no longer possible, and no longer necessary,” Tedros said. “Nothing could be further from the truth,” he said, stressing that “more Covid-19 transmission means more deaths.”

While the new Covid-19 variant is known to be milder, he stressed that “we are now starting to see a very worrying increase in deaths in most regions of the world.” It is vital, he said, to keep striving to halt transmission of the virus.

“We are not calling for any country to return to so-called lockdown,” Tedros said, adding though that “we are calling on all countries to protect their people using every tool in the toolkit, not vaccines alone.” The WHO head stressed the need to continue tracking emerging variants, including the omicron sub-lineage BA.2.

“This virus will continue to evolve, which is why we call on countries to continue testing, surveillance and sequencing,” he said.

According to a Danish study, the BA.2 Omicron subvariant is inherently more contagious than the original BA.1 strain among both vaccinated and unvac-

Spl. Correspondent

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (NPN): A new scheme— Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for NorthEast (PM-DevINE)-- was announced by the Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting the Union Budget 2022-23 here Tuesday.

Sitharaman stated that the PM-DevINE will be implemented through the North-Eastern Council and announced that an initial allocation of Rs. 1,500 crore would be made for the new scheme. It would fund infrastructure, in the spirit of PM GatiShakti, and social

cinated people. The yet to be peer-reviewed study revealed fully vaccinated people are more likely to catch BA.2 than the previous strain, but they are less likely to spread it to others, CNBC reported.

That also indicates the subvariant is even better at escaping vaccine protection than BA.1, which was already significantly more contagious than any other Covid variant, said researchers affiliated with the University of Copenhagen and the Danish Health Ministry.

The researchers also found that people who received a booster were even less likely to transmit the virus than people who were fully vaccinated, the report said.

ANPWDFWA launches state-wide indefinite agitation DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): Members of All Nagaland PWD Field Worker’s Association (ANPWDFWA) PWD (R&B, Housing and National Highway) on Tuesday launched indefinite agitation throughout the state after the state government failed to release pending salaries of work-charged employees under B, C and D categories within January 31, 2022.

Zunheboto: Field workers of PWD (R&B) staged protest outside office of the executive engineer PWD (R&B) Zunheboto and locked the office.

All Nagaland PWD Field Worker’s Association during the protest in (L-R) Kiphire and Zunheboto.

The protesting workers said that office would be opened only after their salaries were released.

Speaking at the protest rally, the workers said they decided to shut down the

office in protest against the department.

The workers cautioned that the agitation would be intensified if the government did not fulfil their demands. They also said that

all the roads under PWD (R&B) department would be blocked and restrict movement of vehicles would be allowed to ply.

Urging the government to intervene and resolve

Lineages OMICRON (BA.1) OMICRON (BA.1.1) OMICRON (BA.2) Delta (B.1.617.2) AY.4.4 AY.5 AY.39 AY. 66 AY. 75 AY. 98.1 AY. 102 AY. 122 Lineage not detected Rejected Total

NOs. 2 3 49 0 1 4 3 1 5 1 1 1 2 79

Status of Surveillance

OMICRON (VOC) Probable OMICRON (BA.1) (VOC) OMICRON (VOC) Delta (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) Delta (B.1.617.2-like) (VOC) N.A

152

sent on January 20 to IBSD Imphal were received on January 31. (See Table) Further, it was also learnt that most of those infected with Omicron cases have had no travel history, indicating community spread of the highly infectious variant of concern in the State.

Meanwhile, confirming that Omicron cases were

detected in Nagaland, Khimiao admitted that due to lack of facility in the State to conduct genome sequencing, reports could not be furnished early.

Speaking to Nagaland Post, he claimed that ever since the Omicron cases were reported in India, the H&FW department had (Cont’d on p-8)

New scheme ‘PM-DevINE’ announced for NE

WHO warns ‘premature’ to declare victory over COVID GENEVA, FEB 1 (AGENCIES): World Health Organization chief warned Tuesday that it is too early for countries to either declare victory over Covid-19 or give up attempts to halt transmission.“It is premature for any country to either surrender or to declare victory,” WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters. “This virus is dangerous, and it continues to evolve before our very eyes.”

His comment came as Denmark on Tuesday became the first EU country to lift all of its domestic Covid-19 curbs despite record numbers of cases of the milder omicron variant, with a number of other countries

RESULT OF WHOLE GENOME SEQUENCING FROM IBSD, IMPHAL

the matter, the protesters expressed dismay with the behaviour of PWD officials, who they said did not even bother to hold talks.

They said that since they have not been paid salary for the past 22 months, it has become difficult for them to manage and look after their families and fulfil their daily needs.

Kiphire: Joining with the rest of the units, the NPWD Field Workers Association Kiphire unit also held a sit-in protest at their office, Kiphire town on Tuesday.

development projects based on felt needs of the NorthEast.

Sitharaman said the scheme would enable livelihood activities for youth and women, filling the gaps in various sectors. However, she said it would not be a substitute for existing central or state Schemes. While the central ministries may also pose their candidate projects, priority would be given to those posed by the states.

According to Development of North-East Region Ministry, the initial list of projects to be funded under the scheme include establishment of Dedicated Services for the Management of Paediatric and Adult

Haemotolymphoid Cancers in North East India, in Guwahati (Multi-State); NECTAR Livelihood Improvement Project (MultiState); Promoting Scientific Organic Agriculture (MultiState).

The scheme would also cover construction of Aizawl By-pass on Western Side; Gap funding for Passenger Ropeway system for Pelling to Sanga-Choeling in West Sikkim; gap funding for Eco-friendly Ropeway (Cable Car) from Dhapper to Bhaleydhunga in South Sikkim and Pilot Project for the construction of Bamboo Link Road at different locations in various districts in Mizoram.

State logs 120 fresh Covid cases DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): Nagaland on Tuesday recorded 120 fresh Covid-19 positive cases while not deaths were reported during the day. Of the fresh cases, 98 were from Dimapur, 15 in Kohima, three in Wokha, two in Tuensang and one each in Mokokchung and Mon, taking the total caseload to 34524.

PTI: With 1,67,059 people testing positive for Covid-19 in a day, India's total tally of cases rose to over 4.14 crore, while the death toll climbed to 4,96,242 with 1,192 fatalities.

NBSE announces HSLC, HSSLC exams

DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) has notified that HSLC examinations 2022 would be conducted from March 9-22 and HSSLC examinations 2022 from March 8- 31 in the offline mode by observing the SOPs issued by the government.

The exam routines of HSLC and HSSLC Examinations 2022 have been uploaded in the Board’s Portal (www.nbsenl.edu.in). Further, the school-based Class XI promotion examination 2022 would also be conducted in the offline mode from April 1-23. Class XI promotion examination 2022 routine has also been uploaded in the board’s portal.

No postal transaction from Feb 2-7

DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): In view of the scheduled roll out of Core System Integration (CSI) on February 8, 2022, the department of posts, Nagaland division has informed that all the post offices (except head post office Kohima) in Nagaland would not accept any financial transaction including booking of letter/parcels from February 2-7, 2022. In a press release, superintendent of post offices, Razuzakie Phinyo informed that the proposed ceasing of actives was to facilitate settle and update all the financial balances in the new CSI system.

The department informed that head post office, Kohima would also not accept any financial transaction from February 4-7 for the same purpose. However, the delivery of speed post articles and other mails services would continue to function normally during that period.

NPF calls for emergency CEC meeting

DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): NPF president Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu has called for an emergency meeting of the Central Executive Council (CEC) on February 5, at 11 a.m. in the NPF Central Office, Kohima. All members have been requested to attend the meeting positively and to strictly (Cont’d on p-8) follow Covid-19 SOP at the meeting.

K Y M C

2

STATE

JCBKK convention concludes

Khulazu Basa village choir, winner of the theme song of the seventh edition of the JCBKK.

DIMAPUR: The 7th edition of Japfüphiki Chokri Baptist Khriesarüü Krotho (JCBKK), a religious convention, which is held once every five years between the Chakhesang’s Chokri Area Baptist Youth Fellowship (CABYF) and the Angami’s Japfüphiki Baptist Khriesarüü Krotho (JBKK), came to an end on January 31, at Thipuzu village, Phek.

In a press release JCBKK informed that a total number of 24 churches from both JBKK and CABYF and around 1420 delegates attended the three-day long event.

Competition on various events like folk song, solo, choir, group bible recitation and movie were conducted. In the folk song category, the first place went to Phusachodu village followed by Jakhama village and Thenyizu village in second and third positions.

In solo, Sesito Lüho stood first while VesatalüVenuh and Vevotalü Ringa finished in second and third places.

In theme song, Khulazu Basa village bagged the first position, Khuzama village in second and Phesama village in third

position.

In group bible recitation, Kezoma stood first while Sakhaba and Kikrüma came second and third respectively. The JBKK won first place in movie making while CABYF finished second.

Speakers during the convention were Kehovi Tase, executive secretary of Japfüphiki Baptist Church Council; Dr. Hüsazülü C Khamo, academic dean at Discipleship Bible College, Dimapur; Dr. Villo Naleo, academic dean at Shalom Bible Seminar y, Zubza; and Rev. Dr.Sülüveyi Rhakho,

director of Harvest Ministries International. They spoke on topics including “Know the truth and shine for Christ”, “Become good and faithful servant and shine for Christ”, “Live in the love of Christ and shine for Christ”, and “Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.”

Meanwhile, a new office bearers of JCBKK for the tenure of 2022-2027 have been selected which will be led by Vizapo Kikhi as president and Nekhonü Chüzho as general secretary. The next conference will be hosted by JBKK in 2027.

Students oriented on ‘employable skills’

Dy. CM condoles

The session in progress on Tuesday.

DIMAPUR: North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) Dimapur in collaboration with Pinnacle Skills (PS) conducted an interactive session on “youth and employable

skills” on Tuesday.

A press release by NEISSR stated that during the session, PS operational head, Debojit Sarkar oriented the students on soft skills training.

He stressed on the im-

NEIDA holds session on mother & child care

DIMAPUR: North East Initiative Development Agency (NEIDA) conducted a session on “mother and child care” on January 29 at New Sendenyu Village, Tseminyu.

A press release by NEIDA stated that the session was held under the Tribal Development Fund (TDF) project funded by National Bank for Agricul-

ture and Rural Development (NABARD).

Resource person from ICRM-NIE, Rhokuotho spoke on various health aspects of mother and child that include nutrition, immunity, physical, mental and social well-being.

The session emphasised on the importance of mother and child wellbeing.

portance of empowering the youth through various skills and trainings and further encouraged the students to develop skills in various aspects so that they can contribute something back to the society.

DIMAPUR: Deputy chief minister Y. Patton has condoled the demise of RhonthungoTungoe on February 1. He was 103.

Patton in a condolence message stated that late Rhonthungo was one of the founding members of Kohima Lotha Baptist Church and a father figure to many people in Kohima.

Stating the late Rhonthungo was a social worker and a spiritual guide, Patton said his passing away was a great loss for the Church and the society.

The Dy.CM further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed to rest in peace.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We, the bereaved family members of Lt. Morba Sangtam, Alisopur village, would like to convey our sincere gratitude to all the individuals, well-wishers, organizations, associations and relatives, who stood by us physically, materially, financially and prayers during the prolonged illness and demise of our dad, who left for the Heavenly abode on 31-01-2022.

It is our ardent prayer to Almighty God that you are richly blessed. k-212/22

Loving wife, children & grand children

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Hollotoli school holds career counselling for students

Rhonthungo Tungoe, KLBC founding member passes away at 102 DIMAPUR: One of the founding memb e r s o f Ko hima Lotha Baptist Church (KLBC) and among the few centenarians in the state, Rhonthungo Tungoe passed away on Tuesday in Kohima at the age Lt Rhonthungo Tungoe of 102 years.

He left behind his wife Lonyule Kent, one son, seven daughters and 53 grand and great grand children. One son predeceased him.

According to family sources, the funeral service will be held on Wednesday (February 2) at the Kohima Lotha Baptist Church at 9 a.m.

Born at Phiro village in Wokha distritc on September 10,1919, late Rhonthungo went to Kohima to pursue further studies after primary education at Phiro village.

While pursuing his studies in at at Kohima Mission School, then deputy commissioner (DC) of Kohima C.R. Pawsey offered late Rhonthungo Tungoe the post of cashier at the Treasury office.

He continued to serve in the Treasury office from 1945 till 1965 after which he worked with SBI till his retirement.

Resource person interacting with the students.

DIMAPUR: With an objective to provide guidance and perspective, Hollotoli School Dimapur organised a career counselling workshop for the students of classes X and XII on Tuesday.

A press release by the school stated that the workshop was conducted by Centre for Jitin Chalwla’s Career Development founder and director, Jitin Chalwla and vice president Vikram Soni.

The resource persons apprised students and parents to gain aware-

GHMSS observes 23rd foundation Day DIMAPUR: Gorkha Hindu Milan Sewa Sangh (GHMSS) observed its 23rd foundation day at Durga Mandir hall, Dimapur on January 31.

Addressing the gathering, GMHSS president Tek Bahadur Sunar informed that Gorkha Hindu Milan Sewa Sangh is a social organization with the motto ‘service to humanity’.

Based on its motto, the organisation has been carrying out humanitarian work, he said.

E a r l i e r, t h e p r o gramme was graced by Hamro Chinhari North East India president, Dr. Bishnu Bhandari as the

Members of Gorkha Hindu Milan Sewa Sangh at the foundation day.

special guest.

by Gorkha Hindu Milan tary, Gyan Bahadur GhatThe programme was Sewa Sangh joint secre- aney. chaired by Gorkha Hindu Milan Sewa Sangh general secretary Sukumar Pradhan. The programme concluded with of thanks

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

1st Death anniversary

Late Ekonthung Kithan It’s been a year since you passed away and the way we miss you is different now. We love and miss you in our own special way. You will always be in our hearts because in there you’re still alive.

WC-22/22

Loving family members

Died : 02/02/2022

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Late ZubenoTsanglao

(12/05/1956 – 28/01/2022) “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4:7 The bereaved family members of Late Zubeno Tsanglao, W/o Thechamo Tsanglao, extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who stood by us physically, spiritually, materially and financially during the prolonged illness and demise of my beloved wife and our mother, mother-in-law and grandmother on January 28, 2022.

Your act of love and kindness shown to us shall never be forgotten. We regret our inability to thank each and every individual but pray that God Almighty bless you all abundantly.

WC-24/22

KEDUHOLE TEMI

K Y M C

Benevolent Children, In-Laws, Grand Children & Great Grand Children

- Loving Husband, Sons, Daughters, In-Laws and Grandchildren

Born on 21/08/1980 Died on 16/01/2022

FEB 1944 – 23rd JAN 2022 “Precious is the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints” The families of Lt. Keduhole Temi would like to express our profound appreciation towards the Medical Staff of Bethel Hospital Kohima, churches, friends, neighbors, solicitous, well-wishers, organizations & associations for the courteous act of empathy rendered to us during this period of bereavement.

Furthermore, we also wish to acknowledge every respective person who helped us in anyway. Your relentless assistance has been a source of great consolation. We are eternally obligated by your unparalleled spiritual and instrumental endorsement.

“Thank You For Your Condolences, May The Good Lord Bless You & Your Family” k-208/22

ness about various career options, career planning, goals setting and helped in understanding various opportunities, latest trends and factor which needed to be considered before deciding the most suitable career path.

They explained the difference between planned and unplanned career decision and motivated the students to identify their potential to the maximum and work towards their career goals in tune with their skills and interests.

The family members of Late Mrs. Alokali A. Zhimo would like to express our sincere “THANK YOU” to all the individuals, relatives and well-wishers for the great kindness shown to us in our bereavement. Your expressions of sympathy through physically, spiritually and financially have been a source of comfort and will be remembered with gratitude. May God reward you all with long life with enormous blessings. k-216/22

dp-485/22

From: Loving family members

dp-489/22

K Y M C

STATE

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is the union budget for 2022-23 going to improve the lot of the common man?

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

A B C

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A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

14% 72% 14%

Q: Will BJP win Manipur

election on its own to form the government?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST FEBRUARY 2

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sun

27 13

Hazy sunshine

20 9

Guwahati A shower in the morning

22 11

Occasional morning rain

20 9

Itanagar Times of clouds and sun

18 9

Shillong

Partly sunny

13 4

Kohima

A stray morning thundershower 14 6

Imphal

Dimapur Sun and clouds Mkg

21 10

A stray morning thunderstorm 17 7

Tuensang Colder; a stray a.m. t-shower Wokha

STRATEGIES DISCUSSED TO IMPROVE AGRI & ALLIED SECTORS

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NEXT POLL

Aizawl

ICAR Nagaland holds stakeholders meet

A little rain in the morning

8

2

15 8

Zunheboto A stray morning thundershower 13 4

Y.Kikheto Sema and other officials at the meeting on Tuesday.

DIMAPUR: Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Tuesday held stakeholders meeting wherein various issues and strategies were discussed to improve agricultural and allied sectors in the face of new challenges.

A press release by IGAR Nagaland Centre stated that Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) Nagaland, Y.Kikheto Sema, while addressing the gathering as chief guest, deliberated on the importance of efficient water conservation and utilization.

He said adoption of technologies for water conservation should be

promoted because attaining food security would be difficult without achieving water security.

Sema also stressed on the importance of convergence among agriculture and allied departments to address the various biotic and abiotic challenges in the face of the changing climate.

He also emphasised on the soil health and its conservation to achieve better yield while maintaining agriculture sustainability. The ACP also deliberated on the establishment of weather station in every district to combat weather anomalies and to develop climate resilient farming system.

During the techni-

cal session, joint director ICAR Nagaland centre, Dr. D.J. Rajkhowa highlighted various research and extension activities of the centre and its ICAR KVKs. He stressed the importance of water harvesting and its efficient utilization, crop diversification, climate-resilient agriculture and the development of location-specific technologies to shift the agricultural scenario from subsistence to commercial farming.

Director of Agriculture, Ben Yanthan stressed upon the importance of research on high-value low volume crops and suggested for promotion of unique farm produce as

Naga farm produce.

Director of Horticulture, Dr. Elithung Lotha emphasised on development of breeding facilities for crops, fisheries and livestock to boost production and productivity.

Director of VS&AH, Dr. Budhi Lama highlighted the importance of artificial insemination in pigs and dissemination of the technology with the help of ICAR Nagaland centre by means of training and capacity building.

Director Soil and Water Conservation, Zhekheto Awomi stressed the importance of soil testing and also informed that soil testing laboratories had been successfully set up in every district of the state.

He also emphasized on utilization of digital technologies in agriculture for the promotion of modern farming in the state.

Director, ICAR NRC on Mithun, Dr. M. H. Khan lamented that though Nagaland was the highest meat consuming state still deficient in meat and meat products.

He said various research activities should be emphasised on increasing the production and

productivity of livestock so that gap between the demand and supply can be narrowed down.

He also encouraged the farmers to adopt various technologies developed

by ICAR NRC Mithun on the promotion of Mithun farming.

D e a n , C o l l e ge o f V&AHS CAU Jalukie, Dr. Arun Sangwan apprised that more entrepreneurs should be encouraged to venture into livestock production to alleviate meat deficiency in the state.

Pro VC NU-SASRD, professor Alemienla Ao suggested that research on wild edible fruits and vegetables, their nutritional characterization and domestication and standardisation of cultivation practices should be carried out so that these underutilised crops can be successfully commercialised.

The release further informed that around 60 dignitaries from various line departments, KVKs from all the districts, NABARD, NU SASRD, SAMETI, Scientist of NRC Mithun and 48 progressive farmers representing all the districts attended the day long programme.

3 LFI to host national seminar

DIMAPUR: Livingstone Foundation International (LFI) College will be hosting a National Seminar “Integrating skill development programme in Higher education” sponsored by Indian Council of Social Science and Research (ICSSR) on February 10 and 11.

Various scholars from different parts of the country including north east will present their paper. In this regard, convenor of the seminar Dr.Tainla Mar, HoD, Department of Education and co convenor Imsulemla, HoD, department of Commerce have informed all to get detail information from lfic.hod.edu@gmail.com or lfic. hod.commerce@gmail.com.

DTF Longleng issues SOP for strict implementation DIMAPUR: In compliance with the government order, the District Task Force (DTF) Longleng has issued the following restrictions for strict implementation throughout the district with immediate effect till February 15, 2022.

A press release by DIPR stated that as per the order, all the existing restrictions in the state for preventing the spread of Covid 19 as issued in the earlier orders, including those on social-religious- political -sports -academic -cultural -entertainment gatherings etc shall continue.

Offline -physical classes for students of Classes 1 to VIII will be allowed form February 15 subject to parental consent and further

subject to the fulfillment of the conditions and SoP to be issued by the Home department.

Board examinations for Class-X and Class-XII will be conducted physically as per the examination schedule subject to the fulfilment of the conditions and SOPs. The order also stated that suitable arrangements should also be made for the students, who are unable to appear the examinations on account of being tested positive for Covid-19 positive or symptomatic.

DTF cautioned that any person- group of persons acting in violation of the above directions will be prosecuted against under the relevant sections.

NTCP, FREE conduct smoke-free campaign in Tuensang

DIMAPUR: District Tobacco Control Cell under National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) Tuensang in Collaboration with Frontier Re En-Bloc (FREE) Motorcycle club, Tuensang carried out a campaign on smoke-free district headquarter under the theme “ Choose life, not tobacco” on Tuesday.

In a press release, SP Tuensang, Vishal along with the Motorcycle Club Tuensang and others.

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DMO, NHM Tuensang, Apheang stated that during the campaign, Superintendent of Police, Tuensang, Vishal spoke on the background of tobacco and its effects on human health. He said by consuming tobacco it increases risk of cancer for which general public should be made aware of its ill effects. He appreciated the Motorcycle Club

Tuensang for taking initiatives on Tobacco awareness campaigns with the department and requested them to create more awareness to the public so that Tuensang headquarter would become a free tobacco district.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by district consultant, Sentilong Longchar who also highlighted on the aims of the campaign.

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Abducted Arunachal teen kicked, given electric shock, alleges father

The Chinese army handed over Miram to the Indian Army on January 27 at the Wacha-Damai interaction point at Kibithu in Anjaw district.

I TA NAG A R , F E B 1 (PTI): The Indian teenager who was allegedly abducted by the Chinese army from Arunachal Pradesh was reunited with his family, an official said on Tuesday.

Indian Army reunited Miram Taron with his parents at a function in Tuting in Upper Siang district on Monday evening, district Deputy Commissioner Shaswat Saurabh said.

He was given a warm welcome by the local administration and panchayat leaders on returning home.

Miram, 17, was allegedly abducted by the Chinese army on January 18 from Lungta Jor area near the Line of Actual Control when he went on a hunting trip with his friend Johny Yaying. Yaying managed to escape from the scene and report the matter to the authorities. The Chinese army

85 more cases take Mnp’s Omicron tally to 127 Correspondent IMPHAL, FEB 1: Eightyfive more Omicron cases were detected on Tuesday, taking the total count of the fasting spreading variant of COVID-19 in the state to 127.

Addressing a pressconference here, state health director K Rajo said that the 85 more omicron cases were confirmed upon receiving genome sequencing results of 140 samples.

He said that of the 85 fresh confirmed Omicron cases, 43 from Imphal West, 20 from Imphal East, eight from Chandel, six from Senapati and three each from Thoubal and Ukhrul, one from Chura-

chandpur districts. The first Omicron case in Manipur was detected in December last year when a resident from Imphal West district returned from Tanzania tested positive for the variant. The director said that out of 3446 samples sent for genome sequencing in the state, results of 3,031 were received so far.

Analysis of the genome sequencing results showed that the virus is mutating rapidly as the results showed mutations in 2,842 samples, the director observed. He added that of the 127 Omicron cases so far confirmed in the state, eight of them were DA1, 115 of DA2 and the remaining five were Omicron.

handed over Miram to the Indian Army on January 27 at the Wacha-Damai interaction point at Kibithu in Anjaw district, where he underwent quarantine and completed legal formalities.

Miram’s father Opang Taron said his son was mentally exhausted as the whole incident scared him.

He was tied and blindfolded while in the custody of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) for more

than a week, the father alleged.

“He is still in shock.

He was kicked in the back and given a mild electric shock initially. He was kept blindfolded most of the time and his hands were tied during captivity. They untied him only when it was time to eat or relieve himself. But, they provided him with adequate food,” Opang Taron told reporters at the function.

BJP MP from Arunachal East Constituency Tapir Gao, who had shared the information of the teen’s abduction on January 19 on Twitter, said, “Miram was given a warm welcome by the villagers of Zido, officials and panchayat leaders.”

In September 2020, the PLA had allegedly captured five boys from Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district before releasing them after about a week, also at a border point in Anjaw district.

Arunachal Pradesh shares a 1,080-km boundary with China.

3 youths in Mnp arrested for slaughtering cow IMPHAL, FEB 1 ( AGENCIES): Three people have been apprehended by the Manipur Police on cow slaughtering charges over the flag of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur.

Apart from cow slaughtering charges, they have also been accused of abusing the Chief Minister of Manipur N. Biren along with State BJP President A. Sharda, reports The Sentinel Assam.

The accused have been identified as Nazbul Hussain (38),son of Akbar of Lilong Tolenkhun, Abdul Rashid (28), son of Md Abdul Rahim of Lilong Chabok Ipham and Arif Khan (32), son of Md. Yakub Ali of Lilong Heinou Makhong. All of them hail from Lilong in Thoubal district in Manipur.

According to reports, the youth slaughtered a cow on a BJP flag after a candidate whom they were allegedly supporting was denied a BJP ticket. In the 29-second video, a group of youth, presumably Muslims, numbering around 10, were seen slitting the throat of the bovine on a BJP flag.

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Budget embodiment of PM’s promises to fulfil people aspiration: Tripura CM AG A RTA L A , F E B 1 (PTI): Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Tuesday hailed the Union Budget for the 2022-23 fiscal, asserting that it is an embodiment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promises to fulfil the aspiration of people and has been drafted with the “vision of making a new India”.

He also said the proposed scheme - Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region - will help boost infrastructure and social development of all the states in NE. “Gratitude to Hon PM Shri @narendramodiJi & Hon FM @nsitharamanJi for the Development Initiative for the NE, a scheme in the spirit of PM Gati Shakti to fund social development projects in NE. It will further develop the region & make it the Ashtalakshmi of the country’s economy,” Deb said on Twitter.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the new PMDevINE scheme would be imple-

Biplab Kumar Deb mented through the NorthEastern Council and an initial allocation of Rs 1,500 crore would be made.

She also mentioned that it would not be a substitute for existing central or state programmes.

“Budget presented by the Hon FM @nsitharamanJi is an embodiment of Hon PM Sh @narendramodi Ji’s promises of fulfilling the aspiration of all Indians & has been drafted with the vision of making a New India.

A pro-farmer & pro-poor budget that will benefit all sectors of economy.... It has the essence of #SabkaSathSabkaVikas and will pave the way forward for an

Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” the CM said on the microblogging site.

He stated that the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan will strengthen the COVID-affected economy and boost the pace of development in the country.

“PM Gati Shakti” driven by seven engines, namely roads, railways, airports, ports, mass transport, waterways, and logistics infrastructure, is a transformative approach for economic growth and sustainable development.

The scope of “PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan” will encompass the seven engines for economic transformation, seamless multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency, the FM said in her budget speech.

The economy has shown a “strong resilience to come out of the effects of the pandemic with highgrowth”, he said.

Deb also welcomed the allocation of Rs one lakh crore for FY23 to assist the states in catalysing overall investments in the economy.

Mnp polls: JD (U) releases list of 30 candidates, 13 more for NPP

Correspondent

IMPHAL, FEB 1: A Multicorner fight is in the offing as political parties declare names of candidates in the fray for the ensuing Manipur Legislative even as the notification for the first phase poll issued on Tuesday.

Manipur will go to poll in two phases –February 27 and March 3 - to elect 60 members of the state legislative Assembly.

The notification for the first phase in which polling will take place in 38 Assembly segments was issued today, allowing filing of nomination papers for candidatures. The last date for filing the nomination papers is February 8. Candidates can withdraw their nominations till February 11 for the

first phase.

Concerned returning officers (ROs) of five districts- Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Churachandpur and Kangpokpi – also issued the mandatory notifications for the 38 assembly segments. However, an official source in the state CEO said that no candidate filed nomination for the day, till 3pm.

Meanwhile, political parties continued to announce names of the candidates to be fielded as party nominees for the ensuing polls.

Janata Dal (United), the party that gained popularity among aspirant candidates denied tickets by the BJP, Congress, NPP and NPF, today announced a list of 30 candidates.

Most of the candidates in the list were former BJP ticket aspirants who jumped ship to the party after they were denied tickets. The list included three MLAs of the current Assembly. Two of them – Ksh Biren Singh and Kh Joykishan – were Congress MLAs but expelled in the run up to the elections.

Ashab Uddin, an independent legislator in the current Assembly, elected from Jiribam AC also in the list. Two cop turned politicians- Th Brinda Devi and LM Khoute (who took vol-

untary retirement as DGP to contest the election – and a former chief secretary – O Nabakishore - were also declared as candidates of the JD(U).

The list also included many former legislators of the state Assembly apart from strong contenders of the BJP tickets.

The National People’s Party (NPP) also released a list of 13 candidates to be fielded as official nominees of the party. The party had earlier released names of 20 candidates. Releasing the

second list of candidates, NPP national vice president and state deputy chief minister Y Joykumar said that the party was preparing to name more candidates.

The third list will be released very soon, he added.

The Shiva Sena also released its second list of two candidates to take the total number of candidates on party ticket to nine. The party had earlier declared six candidates.

While releasing the second list, Shiva Sena state unit president N Tombi

asserted that the party will focus education and road communication besides safeguarding the boundary of the state if its candidates were elected.

The second list of candidates for the Congress which was expected today was not released till the time of filing this report. The party had already released a list of 40 candidates.

As for BJP, names of candidates to be contested on party tickets from all the 60 seats had already been declared on January 30.

Meghalaya CM welcomes Union Budget Correspondent

North Eastern States and their aspirations. As part of this initiative, we have plans to propose a project for the construction of a new administrative city in Shillong,” he said.

Sangma, who also holds the Finance portfolio, said that in the union budget for 2022-23, the estimated expenditure is Rs. 39.45 lakh crore and estimated receipt is Rs. 24.84 lakh crore will enable the GDP to grow at 9.2 percent.

“I am happy that our suggestions during the budget discussion meeting in

last December to increase outlay under the Scheme for Financial Assistance to the States has been well accepted, now Meghalaya would benefit by Rs. 100 crore more in this year itself,” he added.

Moreover, the states have been allotted Rs. 1 lakh crore to assist through fifty-year interest free loans over and above the normal borrowings.

“This will drive the economy of Meghalaya along with the national economy at an accelerated pace in these tough pandemic times,” Sangma said.

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SHILLONG, FEB 1: Welcoming the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting a “forward looking and futuristic budget”, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Tuesday said he is glad that the Central Government’s vision for Amrit Kaal is aligned with our vision for ‘The Meghalayan Decade’.

“The special impetus for holistic development of youth, women, and farmers is in line with our focus and approach towards our

vision of being among the top 10 states in 10 years,” Sangma said.

Expressing happiness on the PM-DevINE (Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North-East,) the Chief Minister said it will be implemented through the North-Eastern Council and it aims to enable livelihood activities for youth and women by filling the gaps in various sectors with initial allocation of Rs. 1,500 crore.

“I express my gratitude towards the Government of India for giving special attention to the

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NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Rajnath welcomes funds for defence sector in Budget

Lt Gen Rana Pratap Kalita

KOLKATA, FEB 1: Lieutenant General Rana Pratap Kalita took over as the General Officer Commandingin-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army on Tuesday, succeeding Lt Gen Manoj Pande who has become the vice chief of army staff, reports Deccan Herald.

Lt Gen Kalita assumed office at Fort William after paying homage to the martyrs at Vijay Smarak followed by a guard of honour at Garrison Battalion Parade Ground. He has conveyed his “warm greetings to the people and wishes them peace, prosperity, health and happiness in times ahead.”

The new Eastern Army Commander, who hails from the North East, earlier served as the director general (Manpower Planning & Personnel Services) in New Delhi.

Commissioned into 9 Kumaon regiment in 1984, he has extensive operational experience in Sri Lanka, Jammu & Kashmir and North East which includes commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Battalion in Kashmir, a Mountain Brigade and an Infantry Division actively engaged in counter insurgency (CI) operations in J&K and strategically important Spear Corps under the Eastern Command in North East apart from his stint as Colonel GS of a Division and BGS (Ops) of a Corps in a highly active CI environment.

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move,” the defence minister said.

In her budget speech in Parliament, Sitharaman said the government is committed to reducing imports and promoting self-reliance in equipment for the armed forces.

“Sixty-eight per cent of the capital procurement budget will be earmarked for domestic industry in 202223, up from 58 per cent in 2021-22,” she said.

The finance minister said defence research and development will be opened up for industry, start-ups and academia with 25 per cent of the defence R&D budget earmarked for it.

“Private industry will

‘Zero Sum budget’, Rahul Gandhi slams Modi govt

Rahul Gandhi

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (IANS): After the presentation of the Union Budget former Congress President Rahul Gandhi has said that its a zero sum budget by the Union Government.

Rahul Gandhi tweeted, “M0di G0vernment’s Zer0 Sum Budget!” In his tweet, Rahul Gandhi deliberately put the figure ‘zero’ instead of the letter ‘O’, criticising the Budget in totality. He further said, “Nothing for the Salaried class, Middle class, The poor & deprived, Youth, Farmers and MSMEs.” E a r l i e r, C o n g r e s s Chief Spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said, “India’s salaried class & middle class were hoping for relief in times of pandemic. All round pay cuts

and back breaking inflation. FM & PM have again deeply disappointed them in Direct Tax measures. This is a betrayal of India’s Salaried Class & Middle Class. #Budget2022” However, the Finance Minister, in some relief to the taxpayers, announced that updated income tax returns can now be filed within two years.

But there was no change to the tax slabs.

Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said, “The budget has focused on the interests of big business friends of PM Modi. It has not tackled the problems of unemployment and inflation. This budget will only increase the inequality and leave the largest section of our population vulnerable and dependent on handouts.”

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh tweeted, “On the one hand, the Budget talks of climate action and protecting the environment. On the other, it pushes ecologically disastrous river-linking projects. Rhetoric sounds nice. But actions matter more. On that front, the Modi govt is on a destructive path.”

Lost in big words signifying nothing: Mamata on Budget

Mamata Banerjee

KOLKATA, FEB 1 (PTI): The Union Budget provided nothing to the common people who have been “crushed” by unemployment and inflation, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said on Tuesday, terming it a “Pegasus spin budget”.

Banerjee said the Centre was lost in “big words” signifying nothing. “Budget has zero for common people, who are getting crushed by unemployment & inflation. Govt is lost in big words signifying nothing - a pegasus spin budget (sic),” she tweeted.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget in Parliament and said the country’s economic growth is expected at 9.2 per cent in the current financial year, on the back of a sharp rebound in the economy.

PM Modi mingles with opposition members in LS NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi walked across the aisle to greet opposition members after congratulating Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting her fourth successive Union Budget.

Modi seen interacting with Trinamool Congress leaders Sudeep Bandyopadhyay and Saugata Roy in the Well of the House, after the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day.

Roy said he asked the prime minister to recall West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar, who is involved in a public spat with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Modi was also seen engrossed in a chat with Congress members Kodikunnil Suresh from Kerala and Francisco Sardinha from Goa. Sardinha said the prime minister was inquiring about the Goa Liberation Day function held in December, where he was among the few attendees from the Congress. Former Congress

Narendra Modi

president Rahul Gandhi had walked out of the Lok Sabha soon after the presentation of the Budget.

The prime minister also warmly greeted Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and was seen shaking hands with former Telecom Minister A Raja.

Modi also seen exchanging greetings with former Jammu & Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, DMK member Dayanidhi Maran and RSP member N K Premachandran.

Y S RC P m e m b e r K r i s h n a D e va r ay u l u Lavu, Independent member Navneet Rana too were seen greeting the prime minister.

India needs to rewrite Constitution: KCR K’taka hijab row: Students sent out of classrooms

HYDERABAD, FEB 1 (IANS): Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Tuesday said that India needs to rewrite its Constitution to fulfil people’s expectations and to ensure that the country progresses to its full potential.

Alleging that both the Congress and the BJP have miserably failed in addressK. Chandrasekhar Rao ing the basic needs of people in the last 75 years, he called at the Centre and “throwing for a qualitative change in it into the Bay of Bengal”. the country and declared “Unless it is done, this counthat he would contribute in try can’t progress,” he said whatever manner possible to slamming the BJP for what he called spoiling the counbring the change.

At a marathon news try by dividing people in the conference here, the Chief name of religion.

The TRS chief called Minister announced that a meeting of retired IAS, on people, especially youth, IPS, and IFS officers will be to wake up to make their held in Hyderabad soon to future bright.

“Shortly, we will start discuss the new agenda for working for the country. We the country.

The Telangana Rashtra will tell the country how Samithi (TRS) chief said the change can be brought. he would visit Mumbai in It is time for the country to a couple of days to meet react and liberate itself from Maharashtra Chief Minis- senseless parties and leaders.

“We need to draft a ter Uddhav Thackeray to discuss his plans. He also new Constitution of India. hinted at meetings with sev- Many nations, whenever well versed with MS-Word, they felt the Excel, need, have reeral other leaders including written their constitutions. his West BengalInDesign, and Odisha Photoshop, counterparts, Mamata Ba- We also need to pursue a PageMaker and Corel Draw nerjee and Naveen Patnaik, new Constitution as 75 valuFor a in Dimapur. able years have gone,” he respectively. reputed organization said, calling KCR, Application as Rao is popumay be e-mailedfor to: a thorough larly known, called for updebate on the proposal. hrmgr.npn@gmail.com orKCR sendpointed through rooting the BJP government out that

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the Constitution has given certain powers to states, certain powers to the government of India while there are some subjects in concurrent list, “but the Congress and BJP governments have stolen powers of the states”. He said their policy is unitary which is not good and desirable for Indian democracy.

“In fact, as maturity level increases in a democracy, more powers should be delegated to states but the reverse is happening in the country,” he said “The Centre has miserably failed in maintaining cooperative federalism.

These fellows (BJP) have doubled stealing away powers of the states,” he added.

KCR termed the BJP government’s call of ‘one nation one registration’ and the move to take over powers relating to postings of IAS and IPS officers a conspiracy against the states.

During his more than two-hour-long news conference, the TRS leader repeatedly referred to Telangana’s achievements in the last seven years and projected it as a model for the entire country.

UDUPI (KARNATAKA), FEB 1 (IANS): The protesting Muslim girl students of the Government Girls Pre-University College here, who attended their Class wearing ‘hijab’ thereby defying the Karnataka government order, were sent out of the respective Classrooms on Tuesday.

The entry to media has been prohibited in the premises of the college and security has been beefed in the campus to avoid any untoward incident.

The government recently issued an order to maintain the status quo in the college until the highlevel committee submitted a report on allowing hijab along with uniform.

Incidentally, February 1 is celebrated as World Hijab Day. Aliya Assadi, one of the protesting students, said on her social media platform that the protesting girls will come to the college wearing hijab, which is their religious and constitutional right. “The college is being run on the tax money that we gave to the government. There is no necessity for anyone’s interference. Our judicious

The six students protesting against the decision to prohibit wearing hijab in college.

fight can’t be sidelined by threats.”

BJP MLA Raghupathy Bhat had earlier stated that the police have been informed about the matter and no outer persons, including those from the Muslim as well as Hindu organisations will be allowed into the campus as the hijab row has put the academic career of the 1,000 students studying in the college at stake. The students have to be ready for examinations, which are going to be held in another two months.

He further stated after holding a meeting that the students, who are protesting for wearing hijab in Classrooms, are being told to come to the college campus only if they decide to shun

hijab. “Otherwise, we have clearly told them not to come to the college and spoil the academic environment,” he said. On the other hand the students have moved a petition in the High Court seeking relief in this regard.

“We have told them clearly to come to the college only if they have decided to come to class without a hijab. They can’t come to the premises of the college and spoil the college academic

environment. We have also informed the police regarding the entry of media and other organisations into the campus,” he stated.

“In another 2 months exams are nearing. Parents are complaining that every day, international media is coming, various Muslim organisations and Hindu organisations are visiting.

There will be no entry to the college from Tuesday. They can submit the memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner,” he said.

One among the protesting students moved the state High Court seeking relief.

Resham Farooq, the student has said the ‘wearing of hijab as a fundamental right under Articles 14 and 25 of the Indian constitution’. The student has sought interim order from the High Court regarding students attending classes wearing hijab.

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Lt Gen Kalita takes over as Eastern Army Commander

Rajnath Singh

be encouraged to take up design and development of military platforms and equipment in collaboration with DRDO and other organisations through SPV (special purpose vehicle) model,” she said.

Sitharaman said an independent nodal umbrella body will be set up for meeting wide-ranging testing and certification requirements.

“Congratulations to Finance Minister, Smt @ nsitharaman on presenting an excellent Union Budget for 2022-23. It is a Budget which would give fillip to ‘Make in India’, boost demand and build capacities for a stronger, prosperous and confident India,” Singh said.

He said the budget outlines the government’s focus on ‘Atamnirbharata’ and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for development and pro people reforms.

“It is a growth oriented Budget focused on harnessing the energies of New India,” Singh said.

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NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday described as an “excellent move” the proposal in the Union Budget to set aside 25 per cent of the defence R&D budget for start-ups and private entities in the financial year 2022-23.

Singh also welcomed Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s announcement that 68 per cent of the defence capital procurement budget would be allocated towards procurement from domestic industry.

“The 68 percent of defence capital procurement budget has been allocated towards local procurement.

It is in line with the ‘Vocal for Local’ push and it will certainly boost the domestic defence industries,” Singh tweeted. He said substantial amounts have been allocated towards research and development in several sectors including defence.

“The proposal to reserve 25 percent of the R&D Budget for Startups and Private entities is an excellent

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OPINION/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

VOL. XXXII NO. 57 DIMAPUR, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Communalising anything

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hanjavur in Tamil Nadu has attracted the attention of the national media when a suicide by 17-year old Lavanya M, a class 12 student of Sacred Hearts Higher Secondary School in Michaelpatti in Thanjavur, hogged the limelight when she died on January 19 after consuming poison. According to reports, Lavanya made her last declaration before a magistrate that was recorded on video on January 16 before her death.

However after January 20, one person identified as Muthevel, district secretary of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) in Ariyalur uploaded a video clip on social media that went viral. In the clip uploaded on January 20, the deceased accused the warden of scolding her, forcing her to clean hostel rooms and also promising to look after her studies if her parents allowed her to convert. The recorder (supposedly Muthuvel) was heard asking whether it was because she did not agree to convert that she was tortured? In response she responded “maybe”. Another video surfaced on January 27 where the victim made no mention about conversion. To goad her, a man was heard asking whether the convent stopped her from wearing a bindi? The girl replied ‘No. And also clarified that the headmistress of the convent had nothing to do with the issue. The details of what police ascertained from the case was that the deceased had a problematic relationship with her parents especially her stepmother. She was reportedly suffering from depression but what drove her into taking poison was definitely not because she had been tortured to convert. However, the BJP in Tamil Nadu concluded, even before investigation concluded, that it was all due to attempt at forcible conversion.

Even a majority of the media both print and electronic, highlighted more about the alleged attempt to convert while ignoring the fact that police, after primary investigation, maintained that conversion is not the issue but family problems. The entire issue was being communalised by the BJP in a state where all religious communities-Hindus, Muslims and Christians- live in a harmonious relationship.

All religious communities in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have shown remarkable tolerance and even the local political parties have been mindful to not cross the bounds of religious tolerance. According to Pratap Mehta, a noted writer and thinker, the failure of the media to challenge and question the government is exacerbated by the way several of its organs actually promote and actively spread communal poison.

In an interview with Karan Thapar, Mehta said the government at the Centre has given legitimacy to communal tendencies which, earlier, were latent but suppressed. The rise of hate mongers in India today, is also a consequence of the government’s tolerance to hate speeches directed at minorities and transversely, the government’s intolerance to protests by minorities. The Thanjavur issue is a case in point where any issue involving perceived wrongdoing by minorities against members of the majority community, is taken on a national scale to send reminder that the majority community is in danger. The case will be handed over to the CBI as demanded by the BJP, a move that is seen to pitch Tamil Nadu versus the Centre.

DailyDevotion The Call of God

Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel… —1 Corinthians 1:17

Paul states here that the call of God is to preach the gospel. But remember what Paul means by “the gospel,” namely, the reality of redemption in our Lord Jesus Christ. We are inclined to make sanctification the goal of our preaching. Paul refers to personal experiences only by way of illustration, never as the end of the matter. We are not commissioned to preach salvation or sanctification— we are commissioned to lift up Jesus Christ (see John 12:32). It is an injustice to say that Jesus Christ labored in redemption to make me a saint. Jesus Christ labored in redemption to redeem the whole world and to place it perfectly whole and restored before the throne of God. The fact that we can experience redemption illustrates the power of its reality, but that experience is a byproduct and not the goal of redemption. If God were human, how sick and tired He would be of the constant requests we make for our salvation and for our sanctification. We burden His energies from morning till night asking for things for ourselves or for something from which we want to be delivered!

When we finally touch the underlying foundation of the reality of the gospel of God, we will never bother Him anymore with little personal complaints.

The one passion of Paul’s life was to proclaim the gospel of God. He welcomed heartbreak, disillusionment, and tribulation for only one reason— these things kept him unmovable in his devotion to the gospel of God.

Quotes

“If you don’t stand for something you will fall for anything.”

~ Gordon A. Eadie

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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Naga National Council: The establishment thereof

o d a y, F e b r u a r y 02,2022 most unerringly has been the 76th occasion of setting up of the Naga National Council (NNC) most grand. On this auspicious day I, Gen (Retd) Thinoselie M Keyho, the President of the Naga National Council bring the most earnest and heart warming greetings to the Nation.

My dearly beloved fellow Nagas, kindly allow me to once again escort you through a short yet eventful journey of the NNC. The NNC has been the first and the only Nagaland Political Organisation and the only authentic Political Institution, having the absolute mandate and blessings of the people.

All the epoch- making achievements had been brought about by and in the name and sake of the NNC: 1. Declaration of our Independent status on August 14, 1947 2. Naga Plebiscite of May 16, 1951 3. Rejection of the Indian General Election of 1952 4. Formation of the Federal Republic Government of Nagaland March 22, 1956 5. Entering into the Nation to Nation Ceasefire with the GoI September 06, 1964 6. Etc. Universally, there never had ever been any History without its legal and/or rightful owner. All the above mentioned acts of History

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have their origin in and ownership of the NNC. Quite a few of the fast spawning “organisations” hold claims to these achievements but would miserably fail to acknowledge their true ownership which lead to and render them parentless most pathetic. NNC alone can and would unite all the Nagas sooner than later.

NNC had been the first ever and would be the ultimate entity standing tall most absolute.

Nagas are not Indians even for a day. Nagas are most differently unique. India has absolutely no right to entangle us; much less stake her unholy claim over us.

However, GoI having learned the obnoxious policy of “divide and rule” from her task masters of yore; practises and perfects the very same evil (+ improvisations included); not only divided the Nagas most effectively but goes even further to pitch one group against the other(s) most nefariously.

She in and since 1957 had taken one miserable group of naive and witless but opportunistic Nagas into her confidence and birthed the Naga Peoples’ Convention from an Army camp. The illegitimate entity was raised

by GoI’s own initiation, fully financed and well provided with impermeable protection; then entered into the infamous 16 Points Agreement with this self-bred and nurtured progeny and finally

culminated in the granting, within Indian Union, of the 1 6th State on December 01, 1963.

What was most glaringly awkward and sinisterly conspicuous had been the absence of the NNC and the FGN. The act of granting statehood had been very much a “one sided” affair most foul. The NNC and FGN did never recognise this act even in the smallest way. Furthermore, NNC had most vehemently condemned the same in the strongest sense of the term.

The FGN terming this act as one of the worst kind of treachery pronounced and executed capital punishment on Dr Imkongliba, the President of the Naga Peoples’ Convention. GoI’s short-sightedness of creating a state did not solve the Indo-Naga Political conflict even in the tiniest bit. It had rather caused the greatest stumbling block of massive proportions.

However, the NNC’s and FGN’s eternal stand is ever steadfast – FULL SOVEREIGNTY. The final resolution of the Naga Case rests solely in God Almighty’s Hand It is the soberest of facts that Nagas can never prevail against the mighty India in physical combat.

But it is also equally true that Almighty God has a definite plan to manifest His might through the agency of the Nagas; for the sole purpose

World Wetland Day

W

of which He has adopted the Nagas, unworthy though we are, as His very own children and has been grooming us up. Since then He has been siding with the Nagas; shielding the Nagas and even avenging the Nagas on countless instances without number!

In times past, God had made unmistakable warnings through words of Divine prophecy to Mrs Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister that the GoI must surely set the Nagas free. Also, that if she declines; what mode of death she would face, in very clear terms. However, since she chose not to obey God, she met the violent end exactly as was spoken through prophecy.

Likewise, the present Prime Minister of India, Mr Narendra Modi has also been told that if he does not set the Nagas free, the Nation of India might break apart.

Now the onus is squarely on the GoI whether to believe the prophetic utterances or otherwise. Either to set the Nagas free and preserve herself or decline and face the full fury of God’s wrath; the choice is absolutely hers alone.

As for the Nagas, come whatever may, in the Omnipotent Name of God, we would keep marching forward till we finally arrive at our goal and destination.

Thank you all.

KUKNALIM. Thinoselie M Keyho

o r l d We t l a n d Day is celebrated on 2nd February every year by countries across the world for the conservation of natural resources. World Wetland Day is observed to raise global awareness of significant role of wetlands in life of people and our planet and conserve it.

This day also marks the date of the adoption of the convention on wetlands on 2nd February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar. It also serves as a platform for people to express their love and concern for wetlands.

Wetlands are low lying areas of land that are saturated with water permanently or seasonally with wild plants in it.

Wetlands acts as a natural sponge that trap and slowly release surface water and control flood. It is a natural filter and conserver of the world.

Wetlands are rich with biodiversity and are a habitat for a dense variety of plants and animal species.

It includes all lakes, rivers, swamps, marshes, wet grasslands, mangroves, coastal areas, coral reefs and all human made sites such as fish ponds and rice puddles etc. Natural wetlands have been referred as “ Earth’s Kidney” because of their high and low term capacity to filter pollutants from the water that flows through them.

Many wetlands are being lost by human construction, pollution, misuse of nature, over population and

climate change. It causes loss of Wetlands habitat for migratory water birds and endangering various plant species.

Each year a theme is selected to focus attention and help raise public awareness about the value of wetlands . This year theme is “Wetlands action for people and Nature” , stressing the need of taking action to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands for human and planetary health. It’s an appeal to invest financial, human and political capital to save the world’s wetlands from disappearing and to restore those we have degraded.

Wetlands are critically important ecosystems that contribute to biodiversity, climate mitigation and adaptation, freshwater availability etc. Therefore to prevent the loss of biodiversity in wetlands, it is equivalent to conserving all species of plants and animals that live in water.

We should conserve wetlands because of its social and environmental benefits as the survival of several biodiversity depends on the conditions of such places.

Wetlands are homes to so many creatures that they make an important part of our ecosystem. Let us save them as we celebrate World Weltlands Day. Research , demonstration & training centre, Sechü-Zubza Kohima.

(Soil & Water Conservation Department)

Budget stokes jobs’ dream, poor need more empathy

he budget introduces digital crypto currency, gives incentives to kisan, industry and leaves out the wage workers high and dry as direct income tax remains untouched.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharam expects to create 60 lakh jobs under the productivity-linkedincentive (PLI) scheme in 14 sectors. The government hopes that it has the potential to create additional production Rs 30 lakh crore, a bit high of an expectation amid a subdued Economic Survey that does not show much enthusiasm for “spend and enjoy”.

The MSMEs get into about Rs 2 lakh crore largely credit support. They are in critical state, it is to be seen whether they would be able to have the benefit and thrive.

The e-Vidya and the National Digital University is a welcome step for the students and scholars.

If data cost even after 5G remains low it would provide countrywide standard education at low cost.

Her expenses rise marginally to Rs 39.44 lakh crore from Rs 37.70 lakh crore in 2021-22. Her borrowings increase to Rs 16.61 lakh crore from Rs

15.91 lakh crore. Fiscal deficit at 6.9 percent, reduced from budgeted 9.2 percent, in 2021-22; has come down to 6.4 percent.

The growth figures projected at 9 percent, though coincides with IMF projections has a catch of minus seven percent growth two years back. Still the actual has to come back to the 2019 level.

The roadmap is to be created through capital expenditure, introduction of 5G communication technology, the Central Bank Digital (crypto) Currency, massive purchase of paddy and wheat from kisan and the master plan for roads and highways.

She says she is setting the pace for India’s ‘Amrit Kal’ -75th year- and eyed economic growth for India over the next 25 years.

Of course, she has extended a number of tax benefits to the lowering or rationalizing many rates for different industry players. She says that there were discrepancy in rates and she has just brought it to the realistic level. Customs duty cuts on chemicals and other raw materials are welcome for Atmanirbhar Bharat programmes for increasing domestic production and re-export at

competitive rates.

This boosts exports.

The government has massively increased capital expenditure target to Rs 7.5 lakh crore from Rs 5.5 lakh crore in the last Budget for FY23. It is expected to give an overall boost to economy and create jobs. The basic thrust of job creation of would be through investment in infrastructure creation. It works as per the psyche that more the infrastructure prospecting finances from banks more would be the need for employing people.

This year expenses were at 2.48 lakh crore or about 49 percent. If the government is able to spend the entire amount of Rs 7.5 lakh crore it cn create wonders.

Along with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the RBI will roll the out the Central Bank Digital Currency (rupee) using blockchain and other technologies.

“This will give a big boost to the economy”, she says. It makes international transfer of money, capital, easy. It can have many businesses done without touching the formal transaction routes. Capital inflow and outflow becomes simpler.

In a way it integrates the

country with the international crypto currency, whose pros and cons are being studied. Since it is a regulated currency by the RBI, it is not likely to have the problems that unregulated crypto system has.

It is also tax integrated, one percent for each transaction to maintain its trail and 30 percent on the earnings as in the income tax provisions. Many governments are yet to accept the crypto but in the parallel market it is becoming an accepted currency.

Keeping an eye on the elections and the recent Kisan stir, that led to withdrawal of three farm bills she announced higher allocation of procurement of wheat and paddy under MSP operations. She spends Rs 2.37 lakh crore and hopes this would have a better impact on kisan lives. Stressing on the international year of millet, she hopes to diversify the food habits and give famers more options for growing different crops.

The expected rise of the PM Kisan pension has not happened. Rightly so perhaps because despite 67 percent rise in revenue it still is not at comfortable level.

The finance minister’s hope to have 60 lakh jobs

in a year, a reminiscence of the days of Atal Behari Vajpayee, in an economy that has yet to come out of the covid19 syndrome is an optimistic move. It, however, requires that much of consumption and manufacturing recovery. The industry has weightage of 28 percent in GDP calculation. Still the income recovery is at a low and sudden boost to consumption is a highly placed expectation.

The investments will be trooping in but may not be at the desired pace.

Of course, stock market so far is buoyant. But capital investors may like to wait to wait to come out of the covid19 syndrome uncertainties.

She proposes some minor direct tax reforms.

It remains largely restricted to allow the state government employees also have the standard deduction at per with central employees.

Her assessment of having a mere 3.8 crore income tax payee is also not correct. In this country everyone pays a high indirect tax of approximately 40 percent even the 82 percent who are not in the income tax net. She knows that that the tax by individual is at a high of 30 percent plus cess against the corporate tax of

22 percent. The mismatch is illogical.

The earning salaried classes are about 3.75 crore and they all are in the tax net. The compliance is full specially in a situation where there has been income contraction in the private sector and corporate are paying low taxes compared to individuals.

Tax evasion as she says is more a myth. Interestingly they also pay GST, which brings Rs 1.40 lakh crore in January 2022.

Overall the budget has dreams, euphoria, indirect aspirations at growth like the stress on drinking water projects, 28,000 crore to housing projects, national digital health system, integrated rail-air-road projects and the like.

Vast sections of the population are excluded.

The sections struck by extreme poverty, migrant labourers do not have strong prescription. It was expected to be a dream real job generating budget with lots of gifts for the citizens.

As the budget is it would be moderate on consumption, average on growth and the pace would be possibly as good as it was this year.

Shivaji Sarkar

Crypto tax regime indicates future of cryptocurrencies in India

T

he announcement of the crypto tax regime by introducing flat 30 per cent taxation on income from crypto and digital assets in the Budget 2022-23 indicates the possible future of cryptocurrencies as a financial asset in the domestic markets in times ahead.

In her Budget speech on Tuesday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, “There has been a phenomenal increase in transactions in virtual digital assets. The magnitude and frequency of these transactions have made it imperative to provide for a specific tax regime.

Accordingly, for the taxation of virtual digital assets, I propose to provide that any income from transfer of any virtual digital as-

set shall be taxed at the rate of 30 per cent.”

The decision to tax digital assets came as a major setback for the existing crypto investors in the next financial year and might discourage investments in cryptocurrencies.

Notably, as per industry estimates, there are 15 million to 20 million cryptocurrency investors in India, with total crypto holdings of around Rs 40,000 crore.

A cryptocurrency is a virtual or digital money that takes the form of tokens or coins. The ‘crypto’ in cryptocurrencies refers to complicated cryptography that allows for the creation and processing of digital currencies and their transactions across decentralised systems.

The government is yet to confirm whether and how it will allow cryptocurrencies, though sources in the Finance Ministry and experts in the industry have pointed out that cryptocurrencies will be treated as a digital asset in times to come.

At present, the government is preparing a legislation to regulate the use of cryptocurrencies in the country.

Principal Economic Advisor Sanjeev Sanyal has said that the government has to take a balanced and comprehensive view on cryptocurrencies.

“This is a matter of some debate, both inside the government, in the Ministry of Finance, and even in the Parliament. Since there are some financial stability

issues and concerns, a balanced view on this will be taken ultimately,” he said.

It must be noted that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has voiced “serious concerns” around private cryptocurrencies on the grounds that these may cause financial instability.

Meanwhile, a new digital rupee powered by blockchain technology will be issued by the RBI in 2022-23. “Introduction of a central bank digital currency will give a big boost to a digital economy. Digital currency will also lead to a more efficient and cheaper currency management system,” said the Finance Minister.

The Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) is a digital

form of fiat currency that can be transacted using wallets backed by the blockchain and is regulated by the central bank.

CBDC is different from decentralised virtual currencies and crypto assets, which are not issued by the state and lack the ‘legal tender’ status. It enables the user to conduct both domestic and cross-border transactions which do not require a third party or a bank.

India would roll out its digital currency in the next financial year. However, in October 2021, Nigeria launched eNaira, which is a non-interest-yielding CBDC. Bahamas and five other islands in the East Caribbean have already introduced CBDCs. (IANS)

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.

India 10th largest country by forest area: Economic Survey

India’s total forest cover was 7,13,789 sq km in 2021, reflecting an increase of 3.14 per cent. adding an average 2,66,000 ha of additional forest area every year during the period, or adding approximately 0.38 per cent of the 2010 forest area every year between 2010 to 2020,” said the Economic Survey.

Forest cover comprises all lands, more than one hectare in area, with a tree canopy density of more than 10 per cent, irrespective of ownership and legal status. Such lands may not necessarily be a recorded forest area, and also include orchards, bamboo, and palm plantations.

India’s total forest cover was 7,13,789 sq km in 2021, reflecting an increase of 3.14 per cent in the forest cover over 2011, moving

from 21.05 per cent of the country’s geographical area in 2011 to 21.71 per cent in 2021. This increase in total forest cover is mainly attributed to increase in very dense forest (all lands with tree canopy density of 70 per cent and above), which rose by 19.54 per cent between 2011 and 2021.

Open forest (all lands with tree canopy density between 10-40 per cent) also improved by 6.71 per cent, while moderately dense forest (all lands with tree canopy density between 40-70 per cent) declined by 4.32 per cent between 2011 and 2021.

Amongst states, Madhya Pradesh (11 per cent of India’s total) had the largest

Only PLC-BJP can ensure security for Punjab: Amarinder

Abide by Indian law or pack up: Andhra HC to Twitter

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND OFFICE OF THE COMMANDANT 11 NAP (IR) BATTALION ABOI : NAGALAND No.1 NAP (IR) BN/RO-14/21-22/3973

Dt. Aboi, the 17th Jan 2022

Shri. :- Alumo Kikon Regtl. :- No. 111743 Rank :- Constable S/O :- Mhomo Kikon Vill :- Yanthungo P.O/PS :- Wokha Dist. :- Wokha Sub:- CALLING NOTICE Whereas, you have been found absent from bonafide Govt. duty w.e.f. 06-10-2021 (FN) without any leave or permission from the competent authority till date.

And whereas, your failure to respond on 3 (Three) consecutive Calling Notices served to you vide this office Letter of even No. Dated (1) 09-11-21, (2) 24-11-21 and (3) 07-12-21 and your failure to respond on the subsequent “Show Cause” Dated 17-12-21 within 30 (thirty) days is found to be tantamount to negation of relevant conduct rules and applicable laws.

Now therefore, the undersigned directs you to report back within 7 (Seven) days from the publication of this calling notice.

Upon failure to report within the stipulated time frame, Departmental Enquiry will be conducted against you ex-parte without any further notice.

Commandant 11 NAP (IR) Battalion Aboi, Nagaland DP-499/22

MP: AIMIM leader Waris Pathan’s face blackened by man in Indore

CHENNAI, FEB 1 (PTI): With their backpacks and donning face masks, school children settled down for physical classes on Tuesday as several institutions across Tamil Nadu reopened for 1 - 12 standard, following stringent COVID-19 precautions.

The students were provided hand sanitizer and had their temperature checked as they stepped into the portals of education after enjoying stretched holidays owing to the pandemic and mid-January Pongal festival. Strict social distancing norm of seating two students per bench was resorted to in many schools.

Some educational institutions preferred to continue online classes. Ahead of the reopening, the administration had thoroughly sanitised the classrooms and premises and welcomed their students with thermal scanners and hand sanitizer.

On January 28, the state government permitted physical classes from 1 - 12 standards in all schools from today, while exempting play schools and nursery schools. The government had also announced a revised schedule for the first revision test for classes 10 and 12 from February 9 - 16 and the second beginning from March 28 to April 5.

INDORE, FEB 1 (PTI): All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader Waris Pathan’s face was blackened by a man in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore on Tuesday, an official said.

The incident took place when Pathan, the party’s national spokesperson and former MLA from Mumbai’s Byculla, visited a dargah in Khajrana area of the city to offer prayers, it was stated.

The role of a local identified as Saddam (32) is being probed in the incident, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Sampat Upad-

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): The Supreme Court Tuesday allowed Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, who is facing allegations in criminal cases which are being probed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), to travel abroad later this month.

A bench headed by Justice A M Khanwilkar said the applicant is allowed to travel abroad on the same terms and conditions as imposed earlier by the court and he shall comply with all the formalities referred to in that order.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram, told the bench about Karti’s application seeking permission to travel abroad.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, told the bench, also comprising Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and C T Ravikumar, that he has no objection and the applicant may be allowed to travel abroad subject to the terms and conditions earlier imposed on him by the court.

“It is agreed that the applicant may be allowed to travel abroad on same terms and conditions...

OFFICE OF THE LAZAMI STUDENTS' UNION LAZAMI : NAGALAND Motto: Knowledge for Glory

FELICITATION

We, the Lazami Students' Union with immense pride and honour extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr Ahovi Futhena, s/o Hotoshe Futhena and Ghojuli Futhena and Mr Alokavi A Lohe, s/o T. Axhi Lohe and A. Vinili Lohe for successfully clearing SSC CPO examination and getting recommended for the post of Sub Inspector in CAPFs. The Union thank them for bringing laurels to our village and wishes them good health and wisdom to carry out their esteem responsibilities.

Sd/Sd/Akiviho Stephen Hushito Tsuipu President General Secretary

OFFICE OF THE LAZA IYINU YOUTH ASSOCIATION LAZAMI : NAGALAND

Karti Chidambaram In other words, the applicant shall comply with all the necessary formalities referred to in the stated order,” the bench observed.

Sibal referred to the October 25 last year order of the apex court which had allowed Chidambaram to travel abroad saying he shall abide by the terms specified earlier by the court in February and would deposit Rs 1 crore.

The Congress leader is facing criminal cases related to the Aircel-Maxis deal and the Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance to the INX Media for allegedly receiving foreign funds

Motto: Unity is Strength

FELICITATION We, the Laza Iyinu Youth Association, Lazami with immense pride and honour extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr Alokavi A Lohe, s/o T. Axhi Lohe & A. Vinili Lohe for successfully clearing SSC CPO examination and getting recommended for the post of Sub Inspector in SSB. The Association also would like to congratulate Miss Tolika Swu, d/o Dr. I. Simon Swu & Mrs. Alotoli Swu for being awarded the Gold Medal in M.Sc (Ag.) Agronomy 2019 at School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development, Medziphema Campus.

The Association thanks them for bringing laurels to our Association and wishes them good health and wisdom to carry out their esteem responsibilities.

Sd/Sd/Pavito George Boshito Achumi President General Secretary

Waris Pathan hyay said. Saddam has not been arrested as yet and the motive behind the act was being ascertained, he said.

According to the police, Saddam had soot from a tea pot in his hands and as soon as Pathan came out of the dargah, he smeared it on the AIMIM leader’s face after garlanding him.

Expressing anger over the incident, the AIMIM’s state unit working president Dr Naeem Ansari said that his party has complained to the Khajrana police and demanded an investigation.

Pathan had arrived in the city during the day to participate in the party’s organisational activities, Ansari said.

Manjhi disappointed with BJP, JD-U over MLC polls’ seat sharing

PATNA, FEB 1 (IANS): Former Bihar chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) supremo Jitan Ram Manjhi on Monday sounded disappointed on the issue of seat sharing in the MLC polls with the alliance partners, BJP and JD-U. “The way BJP and JD-U shared the seats among themselves and did not consider any other alliance partner is disheartening for the HAM. We and Mukesh Sahani’s VIP are the coalition partners in the current NDA government in Bihar. It is extremely unfortunate that they did not invite us for the meeting,” Manjhi said.

“Whatever decision was taken in the meeting, had it been taken in the presence of all coalition partners, it would have been satisfactory for us. Unfortunately, this was

not the case. I am feeling the pain as they have not invited us. As far as HAM is concerned, we might not demand any seat,” Manjhi said.

Earlier on Sunday, VIP chief Mukesh Sahani announced that his party will contest all 24 seats of MLC election coming under local body as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal-United (JD-U) did not give any seat to him.

Sahani also alleged that the BJP backstabbed him. Its leaders could kill him.

The seat distribution among the BJP and the JD-U took place on Saturday wherein 13 seats came to BJP and 11 to JD-U. The BJP has given 1 seat to Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party from its own quota.

Youth tries to throw ‘chemical’ at Kanhaiya Kumar at UPCC office

of Rs 305 crore when his father, P Chidambaram, was the Union finance minister.

Karti and his father have denied all the allegations.

Meanwhile, the apex court continued hearing Sibal’s submissions on a batch of plea concerning interpretation of certain provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Sibal, who is appearing for some petitioners in the matter, told the bench that the central feature of any criminal justice system is the “oversight” by the judiciary and that is the “heart” of protection under Article 21 (protection of life and personal liberty) of the Constitution “So, central to investigation is the oversight of the judiciary and that element is missing in the PMLA,” he told the bench during the arguments, which would continue on Wednesday.

OFFICE OF THE

DIPHUPAR NAGA WOMEN ORGANIZATION DIMAPUR – 797115 : NAGALAND

The youth ( circled) who tried to throw chemical on Kanhaiya.

LUCKNOW, FEB 1 (PTI): A youth allegedly tried to throw a “chemical” at Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar at the UPCC office here on Tuesday, party sources said.

H o w e ve r, h e w a s caught by the party office bearers before any damage was done, they said.

Kanhaiya was at the Uttar

Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) office to address a ‘Yuva Sansad’ organised by the party. A Congress leader on the condition of anonymity said the youth was identified as Devansh Bajpai and he tried to throw the “chemical” at Kumar but was caught by the office bearers of the Youth Congress and the NSUI.

APPRECIATION

The Kohima Mekokla Khumshüm (KMK), would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to esteem member Shri Rendemo Shitiri, Asstt. Manager (Response & Communication) NSDMA, on being awarded the Governor's Commendation Certificate in recognition of innovative and resourceful role in the design and development of software.

The KMK further wishes him success in all his future endeavours.

Sd/Limhachan Kikon Secretary, KMK

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Diphupar Naga Women Organisation would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to every individual and organizations who contributed financially and physically towards the Diphupar Village Area National Highway Beautification project 2021. We regret our inability to mention names of each individual, however we sincerely pray that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

We would also like to make mention of few individuals and organizations without whom our project couldn’t be successful.

1) Shri. Seyiekhrieto Solo EAC, Chumukedima 2) Diphupar Village Council 3) VDB 4) DNYO 5) DNSU 6) Director, NEZCC 7) Shri. Charlie Sekhose, Senior Vice President, NDPP and Convenor, NDPP Dimapur in-charge 8) UCO Bank, Diphupar Branch 9) Tangkhul Shanao Long Diphupar 10) Aotzur Telongjem Diphupar 11) Ceasefire Monitoring Cell NSCN/GPRN 12) Shri. Bokato Sumi, Officer in-charge, PS Diphupar 13) All the well wishers and shops within our Village 14) Tribal Women Communities who donated all the flowers.

DP-491/22

CHANDIGARH, FEB 1 (PTI): Punjab Lok Congress chief Amarinder Singh on Tuesday said only his party can ensure the security of the sensitive border state.

“The state’s and country’s safety is of paramount importance, which only the PLC alliance, with the support of the BJP-led government at the Centre, could ensure,” he said.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah will be coming to Punjab soon to campaign for the PLC-BJP-SAD Sanyukt coalition.

The former chief minister said the alliance had been crafted in the interest of Punjab and the country.

Punjab goes to polls on February 20 and BJP is fighting the elections in alliance with PLC and Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa led SAD (Sanyukt).

Singh expressed anger over Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu’s hugging the Pakistan army chief, who, he said, was ordering his soldiers every day to kill Indians.

“The state’s governance could not be handed

AMARAVATI, FEB 1 (IANS): The Andhra Pradesh High Court (HC) has issued a stern warning to social media giant Twitter to either abide by Indian law or else move out from the country.

The HC’s warning came in connection with Twitter not following the orders of withdrawing abusive content against judiciary from the social media platform. The matter has been posted for hearing on February 7.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and Justice M. Satyanarayana Murthy on Monday said that Twitter must explain why ‘cease and desist’ orders must not be initiated before the next hearing.

It also stressed that Twitter can’t play “hide and seek” with Indian law and should abide by the law of the land if it wants to operate on Indian soil.

The bench said it is a clear case fit for contempt and criminal proceedings could be initiated against Twitter. The bench also referred to a recent judgment against Google where an FIR has been registered.

Schools reopen in TN with COVID norms in place

SC allows Congress MP Karti Chidambaram to travel abroad

K-209/22

Amarinder Singh

over to people who were willing to compromise national security to further their personal and political ambitions.

“Who do you hate more, the soldiers who fire or the one who gives the order?” Singh asked at a public rally at Ramlila Maidan in Patiala.

“We want peace with Pakistan but will not bow to them. We are prepared to fight, our army is ready to take them head on,” Amarinder, an ex-Army man, asserted.

While there was no conflict between the people of the two countries, the hostile regime in Pakistan posed a serious danger which could not be undermined, he said, as per a statement.

He pointed out that since March 2017, as many as 83 Punjabi soldiers had been killed by Pakistan on the border, and the government he headed earlier had given compensation of Rs 50 lakh and a job to the kin of each deceased soldier.

The state, with its economy in total shambles, was at a crossroads and needed the Centre’s support to go ahead, he said, adding that Punjab was reeling under debt.

For Punjab’s survival, it is necessary that the state and the Centre work together, said Singh.

He added that he personally has had cordial relations with Modi since the time the latter was the chief minister of Gujarat.

forest cover in India in 2021, followed by Ar unachal Pradesh (9 per cent), Chhattisgarh (8 per cent), Odisha (7 per cent), and Maharashtra (7 per cent).

Mizoram (85 per cent), Arunachal Pradesh (79 per cent), Meghalaya (76 per cent), Manipur (74 per cent) and Nagaland (74 per cent) were the top five states in terms of highest per cent of forest cover with respect to total geographical area of the state in 2021.

Arunachal Pradesh accounted for 21 per cent of India’s very dense forest in 2021, followed by Maharashtra (9 per cent), Odisha (7 per cent), Chhattisgarh (7 per cent), and Madhya Pradesh (7 per cent).

Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh accounted for 11 per cent of India’s moderately dense forest in 2021, followed by Ar unachal Pradesh (10 per cent), Odisha (7 per cent), and Karnataka (7 per cent).

Madhya Pradesh also accounted for 12 per cent of India’s moderately dense forest in 2021, followed by Odisha (8 per cent), Maharashtra (7 per cent), Chhattisgarh (5 per cent), and Assam (5 per cent), the Survey said.

K-210/22

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (IANS) : India’s total forest cover was 7,13,789 sq km in 2021, reflecting an increase of 3.14 per cent over 2011 even as it remained as the tenth largest country by forest area in the world, the Economic Survey 2021-22 said.

Forest area refers to the area recorded as forest in government records and is also called “recorded forest area”. Russia, Brazil, Canada, the US, and China were the top five largest countries by forest area in 2020, while India was the tenth largest.

Forests covered 24 per cent of India’s total geographical area accounting for two per cent of the world’s total forest area in 2020. The top 10 countries account for 66 per cent of the world’s forest area. Of these countries, Brazil (59 per cent), Peru (57 per cent), Democratic Republic of Congo (56 per cent), and Russia (50 per cent) have half or more of their total geographical area under forests.

“India has increased its forest area significantly over the past decade. It ranks third globally in average annual net gain in forest area between 2010 to 2020,

7

NATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

(Ratolu Chakhesang) Secretary DNWO

(Tainla Ao) Chairperson DNWO

K-206/22

IN THE COURT OF PRINCIPAL DISTRICT AND SESSIONS JUDGE KOHIMA : NAGALAND

NOTICE NOTICE INVITING OTHER CLAIMENTS TO REPRESENTATION COME FORWARD (UNDER PART-X OF SECTION 373 OF INDIAN SUCCESSION ACT 1925) Succession Case No 26 of 2022 Whereas application under Succession Act 1925 for grant of Succession Certificate for the estate of Late Vikethozo Vizo has filed by Smti Kezhavo-ü Vizo, W/o Late Vikethozo Vizo, R/o Phezoucha, New Secretariat Area, Kohima, Nagaland to draw/operate/close/transfer, Family and Service benefits, SBI A/c No. 30033077018, Bazar Branch Kohima, who expired on 15-01-2022.

Notice is hereby given that any person having interest in the administration of the estate of this said deceased may he/she so desire to appear in this Court within 30 (thirty) days from the date of publication of notice.

Given under the hand and seal of the Court on this 1st Feb. day of 2022.

Principal District & Sessions Judge Kohima : Nagaland.

K-211/22

IN THE COURT OF

PRINCIPAL DISTRICT AND SESSIONS JUDGE COURT MOKOKCHUNG : NAGALAND NOTICE S/C No. 23/2022

Whereas application under Succession Act 1925 for grant of Succession Certificate for the estate/pension benefits of Late Chubalong Ao has been applied by Smti Limasenla, M/o Late Chubalong Ao, R/o H.No. 358, Alempang Ward, Mokokchung, Nagaland for possession of: 1. GPF 4. Leave encashment 2. GIS 5. Pension etc 3. Gratuity 6. Closing of A/c Notice is hereby given that any person having interest in the administration of the estate/pension benefits of the said deceased may, if she/he so desire to appear in this Court on or before the said day of 01.03.2022.

Given under the hand and seal of the Court on this day, the 01.02.2022.

MKC-45/22

Principal District & Sessions Judge Mokokchung : Nagaland

Su doku

KAKURO

to introduce digital currency by the RBI and said digital assets will be taxed at 30 per cent with no deduction for any expenditure except the cost of acquisition of such asset.

To give a boost to the startup community, she capped the surcharge on long-term capital gains at 15 per cent now.

As a push to promote exports, the SEZ Act will be replaced with a new legislation and states shall become partners for development of infrastructure.

In tandem, reforms are also proposed to be undertaken in the Customs administration of SEZs, with facilitation related changes to be made.

From an indirect tax perspective, the concessional rate on capital goods imports under Project Import Scheme is proposed to be withdrawn, to promote domestic industry and imports will be taxed at 7.5 per cent now.

No. 10170 Yesterday’s solution No. 10169

No. 4792 Yesterday’s solution No. 4791

No. 3816 Yesterday’s solution No. 3815

ACROSS 1 Legendary king (5) 6 Greek letter (5) 9 Cloth (7) 10 Suitably (5) 11 Complains (5) 12 Fruit (5) 13 Perplex (7) 15 Weep (3) 17 Road (4) 18 Meal (6) 19 Seraglio (5) 20 Cream cake (6) 22 House (4) 24 Golfer’s peg (3) 25 Capital of Iraq (7) 26 Started (5) 27 Paris underground (5) 28 Crows (5) 29 Sale (7) 30 Coagulates (5) 31 Coin (5) DOWN 2 Antelope (6) 3 Ablaze (6) 4 Cunning (3) 5 Alphabetical list (5) 6 Propriety (7) 7 Vivacity (4) 8 Creep (6) 12 Tooth (5) 13 Armada (5) 14 Relative (5) 15 Rapidity (5) 16 Plait (5) 18 Chair (5) 19 Ugly (7) 21 Breakfast food (6) 22 Altar (6) 23 Girl (6) 25 Indian dish (5) 26 Unruly child (4) 28 Dance (3)

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (IANS): The government proposes to permit taxpayers to file an updated retur n on payment of additional tax within two years from the end of the relevant assessment year.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced this while presenting the Union Budget 2022-23 in the Parliament on Tuesday.

She said this would give the taxpayers an opportunity to correct any omissions or mistakes in correctly estimating their income for tax payment.

She pointed out that currently, if the department finds out that some income has been missed out by the assessee, it goes through a l e n g t hy p r o c e s s o f adjudication, and the new proposal would repose trust in the taxpayer.

She said, “It is an affirmative step in the direction of voluntary tax compliance.”

The law currently provides for deduction to the parent or guardian when they take an insurance scheme for a differentlyabled person only if the lump sum payment or annuity is available to the differently abled person on the death of the subscriber.

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Lost Notice

I, Payia Maheo am applying for duplicate copy of M.A 4th Semester Marksheet as I have lost it.

F/Name : A Ashihrü Maheo Roll. No. : 1607 Regd. No. : 13010451 of 2013

AffidAvit Correction of Name I, Smti Yangertola, D/o Bendangsashi Amri do hereby declare that Yangertola and Yangertola Amrlari is the same person and refer to me

by Notary Public, Affidavit Regd. No. 0378/2021, Dated: 16/09/2021. k-215/22

there could be situations where differently-abled de pendants may need payment of annuity or lump sum amount even during the lifetime of their parents/guardians, Sitharaman announced that the government proposes to allow the payment of annuity and lump sum amount to the differentlyabled dependent during the lifetime of parents/ guardians, on subscribers attaining the age of 60 years.

The minister said that to enhance the social security benefits of the state government employees and bring them at par with the Central government employees, the government proposes to increase the tax deduction limit to 14 per cent from 10 per cent on employer’s contribution to the NPS account of state government employees.

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DP-477/22

sectors like transportation and logistics sectors (Gati Shakti), banking and fintech (75 digital units to be set up), agriculture, EV sector (battery swapping policy), among others.

On the direct tax front, to further ease compliances for taxpayers, a new IT return system will be introduced and litigation will be reduced by restricting appeal rights of revenue authorities for consecutive years. It marginally increased the time limit to commence production by March 31, 2024 for units opting for the beneficial corporate tax rate of 15 per cent.

To provide impetus to trust-based governance as a concept, an updated tax return system has been introduced wherein a taxpayer can file a tax return upon payment of specified taxes within 2 years from the end of the relevant assessment year.

She unveiled a proposal

MUMBAI, FEB 1 (PTI): The rupee pared its initial gains and settled 17 paise lower at 74.82 (provisional) against US dollar on Tuesday on the back of higher-than-expected bor rowing in the next financial year.

Investors were cautious after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said that the government will borrow about Rs 11.6 lakh crore from the market in 202223 to meet its expenditure requirement, forex traders said.

Further, the govt said fiscal deficit in 2021-22 will be 6.9 per cent of GDP and 6.4 per cent in 2022-23, and this also weighed on sentiments. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 74.53 against the American dollar, witnessed an intra-day high of 74.41 and a low of 74.87 against the greenback. The local unit finally ended the day at 74.82, 17 paise lower than its previous close of 74.65.

The dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading 0.19% lower at 96.35.

On the domestic equity market front, the 30-share Sensex ended 848.40 points or 1.46% higher at 58,862.57, while the broader NSE Nifty settled up 237.00 points or 1.37% to 17,576.85.

Taxpayers can file updated I-T returns within two years

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DP-486/22

Crossword

(From p-1) projected to come down to 6.4 per cent next year and 4.5 per cent by 2025-26.

I n d i a ’s e c o n o m y i s projected to grow by 9.2 per cent in the current fiscal before slowing to 8-8.5 per cent in 2022-23 (April 2022 to March 2023). It had contracted by 6.6 per cent in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021.

The Budget’s “approach is driven by seven engines,” Sitharaman said, listing roads, railways, airports, ports, mass transpor t, waterways and logistics infrastructure as the key areas.

“All seven engines will pull forward the economy in unison”, complemented by energy transmission, IT communication, water and sewerage sector and social infrastructure, she said.

The Budget proposals laid the foundation for strengthening of different

Rupee slips 17 paise to close at 74.82 against USD

for children to attend their classes.

Urging everyone to strictly follow the Covid SOPs issued by the State government, he pointed out that if any further changes were required, High Powered Committee might issue revised guidelines after assessing the situation.

On the other hand, taking to Twitter, State health minister S Pangnyu Phom claimed that the H&FW department was keenly monitoring the Covid situation in the State and that all possible measures were in place. He further appealed all to adhere to Covid-appropriate behaviours and get inoculated against Covid-19.

It may be mentioned that National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) director Mukesh Kumar had stated on January 27 that the Omicron sub-variant BA.2 was more prevalent in India now.

In its January 10 bulletin, Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) under the Union Health Ministry said the Omicron variant of the coronavirus was in the community transmission stage in the country and had become dominant.

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DP-429/22

(From p-1) In a press release, Kiphire unit president Lithrongchem Sangtam stated that field workers have not been paid for 22 months despite their hard work and dedication. Unit president appealed to the government to release pending salaries at the earliest.

The workers, who gathered at PWD Office Kiphire holding placards, expressed resentment against the government for depriving them and not paying them on time.

Noklak: PWD field workers Noklak unit held a silent protest at Noklak town on Tuesday and submitted memorandum to deputy commissioner (DC) Noklak.

In a press release, PWDFWA, Noklak unit president Lamsong said that the offices of executive engineer and SDO PWD (R&B) Noklak were locked.

PWDFWA Noklak unit affirmed that it would strongly support and stand by ANPWDFWA and cautioned that in the event of any eventuality, the department and government would be solely held responsible.

Workers who joined that protest held placard some of which read, ‘Release our hard work salaries’, ‘Work Charge employees are the main force which maintain the road infrastructure’, ‘enough verification upon W/C employees’ etc.

Budget: FM spurs spending to sustain economic recovery

(From p-1) requested the Centre to help the State set up a genome sequencing testing facility.

He said the department was assured that the Centre, under a certain programme, would assist it in setting up the genome sequencing laboratory.

Khimiao mentioned that the department had already put in place a healthcare delivery system and issued orders to all districts up to health subcentres to be prepared to battle the Omicron variant.

Though the Omicron variant was said to be five times more transmissible than the Delta, and came in a big wave and faded early, the PD remarked the State did not witness anyone getting admitted to hospital and hoped it would improve by the end of this month.

Though Omicron was less severe than the Delta variant, he pointed that the treatment for both remained the same.

Regarding closure of schools in the State, Khimiao said this would have to be observed for some more time and was hopeful that some measures would be taken

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DP-488/22

ANPWDFWA launches statewide indefinite agitation

largest startup and growth ecosystems. Scaling up this investment requires a holistic examination of regulatory and other frictions, she said.

On blended finance, she said that the governmentbacked Funds NIIF and SIDBI Fund of Funds had provided scale capital, creating a multiplier effect.

Fo r e n c o u r a g i n g important sunrise sectors, such as climate action, deep-tech, digital economy, pharma and agri-tech, the government would promote thematic funds for blended

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): Gold in the national capital on Tuesday rallied Rs 333 to Rs 47,844 per 10 grams in line with firm global trends along with rupee depreciation, according to HDFC Securities.

In the previous trade, the precious metal settled at Rs 47,511 per 10 grams.

The r upee dipped 14 paise to close at 74.79 (provisional) against the US dollar.

Silver dipped Rs 68 to Rs 61,164 per kg, from Rs 61,232 per kg in the previous trade.

In the international market, gold was trading in the green at USD 1,803 per ounce and silver was flat at USD 22.60 per ounce.

“Gold prices traded up with spot gold prices at COMEX trading 0.34 per cent up at USD 1,803 per ounce on Tuesday,” Tapan Patel, senior analyst (commodities) at HDFC Securities, said.

DP-496/22

in 2022-23 to catalyse investments.

The finance minister further said that in 202223, states will be allowed a fiscal deficit of up to 4 pc of GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product).

The minister also proposed to set up an expert committee to examine and suggest appropriate measures to scale up venture capital and private equity investment.

Venture capital and private equity invested more than Rs 5.5 lakh crore last year, facilitating one of the

finance with the government share being limited to 20 per cent and the funds being managed by private fund managers, the minister said.

“Creation of a blockchain-based central bank digital currency while bringing virtual digital assets under the tax net at the highest rate of 30 per cent will help reduce speculative play, especially in the cr yptocur rency space,” Shravan Shetty, MD, Primus Partners- Digital Currency, said.

The central currency will help bring the benefit of a digital currency to the economy in a structured framework, Shetty added.

Harry Parikh, Associate Partner - M&A Ta x a n d R e g u l a t o r y Services, BDO India, said a nonchalant introduction of taxation on digital currency coupled with a withholding tax on every transaction could give rise to a lot of compliance issues for crypto businesses.

DP-476/22

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will introduce digital currency in the next financial year beginning April 2022 to boost the digital economy and efficient currency management, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed in her Budget 2022-23 speech on Tuesday.

The introduction of a central bank digital currency will give a big boost to the digital economy. Digital currency will also help in the currency management system, the minister said.

“Digital currency will also lead to a more efficient and cheaper currency management system. It is therefore proposed to introduce digital rupee using blockchain and other technologies to be issued by the Reserve Bank of India, starting 2022-23,” Sitharaman said.

She also said Rs 1 lakh crore financial assistance to states will be provided

Covid: Nagaland reports 54 Omicron cases, including 49 ‘Stealth Omicron’

DP-497/22

RBI to introduce digital rupee

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

DP-494/22

BUSINESS/STATE Gold rallies Rs 333 on global trends

k-213/22

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US Congressman urges Biden to Ukraine announces plan to boost army reject Pak’s ambassador-designate

KYIV, FEB 1 (AGENCIES): President Volodymyr Zelenskiy signed a decree on Tuesday to boost Ukraine’s armed forces by 100,000 troops over three years and raise soldiers’ pay, as European leaders lined up to back him in a standoff with Russia. Zelenskiy urged lawmakers to stay calm and avoid panic, saying he ordered the increase “not because we will soon have a war... but so that soon and in the future there will be peace in Ukraine”.

Russia has massed more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine’s borders, while denying plans to invade - an action that the United States and its allies have warned would trigger tough sanctions. Ukraine’s armed forces currently number about 250,000, compared to Russia’s overall strength of around 900,000.

Ukraine said it was working with Poland and Britain to strengthen cooperation “in the context of ongoing Russian aggression”. On a visit to Kyiv, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki

A service member walks past tanks of a mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces during military exercises outside Kharkiv, Ukraine January 31, 2022. (Reuters)

President Vladimir Putin he would pay a high price for any aggression.

“We urge Russia to step back and engage in dialogue to find a diplomatic resolution and avoid further bloodshed,” Johnson said in remarks released ahead of his arrival. “As a friend and a democratic partner, the UK will continue to uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty in the face of those who seek to destroy it.” The West last week formally rejected Russian demands to bar Ukraine from ever joining NATO and pull out NATO

forces from eastern Europe, while expressing willingness to talk about arms control and confidence-building measures. Russia has not yet signalled its next move, and the Kremlin reiterated that Putin would respond “when he considers it necessary”.

Putin said last week the United States and NATO had not addressed Moscow’s main security demands but Russia was ready to keep talking. He spoke on Tuesday by phone to Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, whose office said the two leaders agreed on

India and Nepal sign MoU to construct bridge over Mahakali river

Landslide in Quito kills at least 14, injures 32

KATHMANDU, FEB 1 (PTI): India and Nepal on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of a motorable bridge over the Mahakali River connecting Dharchula in Uttarakhand with Darchula in Nepal with Indian grant assistance. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra and Nepal’s Secretary, Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport Rabindra Nath Shrestha signed the MoU in presence of Transport Minister Renu Kumari Yadav, according to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy here.

India will bear all the cost of constructing the bridge and preparation of detailed project report for the bridge has already been completed, said informed sources at the Ministry of Transport. They added that the construction work of the bridge will start soon. The bridge will enhance cross-

said Warsaw would help Ukraine with gas and arms supplies, as well as humanitarian and economic aid.

“Living close to a neighbour like Russia, we have the feeling of living at the foot of a volcano,” said Morawiecki, promising Ukraine artillery ammunition, mortar bombs, portable air-defence systems and surveillance drones.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was due to meet Zelenskiy later on Tuesday as part of a Western show of support intended to convince Russian

Mohan Kwatra, Renu Kumari Yadav and Rabindra Nath Shrestha during the signing of MoU.

border connectivity between the Sudurpaschim province of Nepal and Uttarakhand across the Mahakali river where close people-to-people links exist between communities on both sides of the border. “This is in line with the priority shared by both the governments to expand cross-border connectivity for streamlining commercial, cultural and peopleto-people exchanges,” the statement said. In January, the Indian government had

Too many masks: WHO cites glut of waste from COVID response

GENEVA, FEB 1 (AP): The World Health Organization says overuse of gloves, “moon suits” and the use of billions of masks and vaccination syringes to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus have spurred a huge glut of health care waste worldwide.

The UN health agency reported Tuesday that tens of thousands of tons of extra medical waste has strained waste management systems and is threatening both health and the environment, pointing to a “dire need” to improve those systems and get a response from both governments and people.

“Part of the message for the public is to become more of a conscious consumer,” said Dr. Margaret Montgomery, technical officer of WHO’s water, sanitation, hygiene and health unit. “In terms of the volume, it’s enormous.”

“We find that people are wearing excessive PPE,” Montgomery said, referring to personal protection equipment.The agency says most of the roughly 87,000 tons of such equipment – including what she called “moon suits” and gloves -- obtained from March 2020 to November 2021 to battle COVID-19 has ended up as waste. More than 8 K Y M C

billion doses of vaccine administered globally have produced 143 tons of extra waste in terms of syringes, needles and safety boxes.

“It is absolutely vital to provide health workers with the right (protective gear),” Dr. Michael Ryan, WHO’s emergencies chief, said in a statement. “But it is also vital to ensure that it can be used safely without impacting on the surrounding environment.”

In the statement, Dr. Anne Woolridge of the International Solid Waste Association said “safe and rational use” of personal protective equipment would r e d u c e e nv i r o n m e n t a l harm, save money, reduce possible supply shortages and help prevent infection “by changing behaviors.”

WHO issued recommendations like use of “ecofriendly” packaging and shipping as well as reusable equipment and recyclable or biodegradable materials.

The agency called for investment in “non-burn waste treatment” technologies. It reported that 30 percent of healthcare facilities worldwide – and 60 per cent in the least developed countries – were already ill-equipped to handle existing waste loads, even before the COVID-19 pandemic led to them to balloon.

approved signing of the MoU between the two countries for construction of the bridge. Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur had said that the bridge will be completed within three years.

Thakur had said as close neighbours, India and Nepal share unique ties of friendship and cooperation characterized by an open border and deep-rooted people-to-people contacts of kinship and culture.

QUITO, FEB 1 (AGENCIES): At least 14 people died and another 32 were injured in a landslide in the north of Ecuador’s capital Quito, the country’s emergency response office said on Tuesday, as firefighter rescue crews continue searching homes and streets covered by mud. Torrential rains on Monday night caused a build-up of water in a gorge near the working class neighborhoods of La Gasca and La Comuna, sending mud and rocks down on residences and affecting electricity provision.

“The figure of deceased people rises to 14, that of destroyed homes to 3 and affected families to 3,” the Ecuador Office for Risk and Emergency Management said on Twitter. Authorities said late on Monday nine people were missing and 32 were injured. “We saw this immense black river that was dragging along everything, we had to climb the walls to escape,” said resident Alba Cotacachi.

the need to find a “sustainable and durable” solution to the crisis and to rebuild a “climate of mutual confidence”. read more It said Draghi highlighted the importance of reducing tensions in Ukraine “in the light of the serious consequences that a further escalation of the crisis would have”.

‘WE MUST BE UNITED’ Despite the Russian troop build-up, Zelenskiy has repeatedly pushed back against warnings by the United States and other NATO allies that Russia could attack Ukraine at any moment. “We must be united in domestic politics.

You can be in opposition to the government, but you can’t be in opposition to Ukraine,” Zelenskiy told lawmakers.

“You can despise ... the government, the president, but you can’t despise your own people, sow panic in order to reap political gains, keep people in a state of alarm.” Any sanctions on Moscow would build on those imposed on Russia after it annexed Crimea and backed separatists fighting government forces in eastern Ukraine in 2014, but Europe’s dependence on Russian energy supplies weakens the West’s hand.

Terms him ‘terrorist sympathiser’ ISLAMABAD/WASHINGTON, FEB 1 (PTI): A US Congressman has urged President Joe Biden to reject Pakistan’s ambassadordesignate Masood Khan’s diplomatic credentials and termed him a “bona fide terrorist sympathiser” working to undermine America’s interests in the region, saying he has encouraged young men to emulate jihadists and praised foreign terrorist organisations.

Khan, who has previously served as the “president” of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) until August last year, was nominated as Pakistan’s ambassador to the US in November.

Republican Congressman Scott Perry, in a letter to President Biden last week, expressed “grave concern” about the nomination of Khan as Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States. “(Pakistan Prime Minister) Imran Khan’s nomination of a bona fide

SL to buy fuel from Indian Oil to tide over energy crisis COLOMBO, FEB 1 (PTI): Sri Lanka has decided to purchase petrol and diesel, 40,000 metric tonnes each, from the Indian Oil Corporation, according to a Cabinet note on Tuesday, as part of the government’s bid to tide over the current fuel and energy crisis faced by the island nation.

The move came weeks after Power Minister Gamini Lokuge said that Sri Lanka will hold talks with the Indian Oil Corporation’s local entity amidst a severe foreign exchange crisis.

The Lanka IOC, the Sri Lankan subsidiary of India’s oil major Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), has been in operation in Sri Lanka since 2002.

According to the Cabinet statement, the Ministry of Energy has discussed with the IOC to procure 40,000 metric tonnes of diesel and 40,000 metric tonnes of petrol.

“Accordingly, the In-

dian Oil Corporation has agreed to supply a shipment of 40,000 metric tonnes of diesel,” it said.

The Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal tabled by the Minister of Energy to take further measures to buy the Oil consignment.

Sri Lanka in the recent weeks has been mulling different options to facilitate measures to prevent fuel pumps from going dry as the island nation was faced with a severe foreign exchange crisis to pay for its imports. Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila had predicted fuel shortages in the country due to the inability to pay for imports.

When the crisis loomed, the government approached the IOC’s local operation LIOC to import fuel for the government.

The LIOC had earlier declined the request as they themselves were affected by the shortage of foreign currency to import.

Joe Biden

terrorist sympathiser working to undermine our interests in the region, as well as the security of our Indian allies, can only be described as a breathtaking lack of judgment at best, and a demonstration of Islamabad’s unmitigated contempt for the United States at worst,” he wrote.

“While I am encouraged that the State Department has reportedly placed a pause on approving Masood Khan as the new ambassador from Pakistan, a pause is not enough.

“I urge you to reject any diplomatic credentials presented to you by Masood Khan and reject any effort by the Government of Pakistan to install this jihadist as Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States,” said the Member of Congress 10th District, Pennsylvania. In Islamabad, the Dawn newspaper reported that the US State Department has been taking “unusually long” to accept the nomination of Khan

and the “delay has triggered an impression of a pause in the process”.

The request for agrément for Masood Khan had been sent to the State Department in the second week of November, the report quoted a Pakistani diplomat as saying.

The agrément is the approval of a designated diplomat by the receiving state. Normally, the State Department took four to six weeks to issue agrément for Pakistani ambassadors in the past, a former Pakistani foreign secretary said.

“This time they are taking unusually long,” another diplomat said.

In his letter, US Congressman Perry further said that the ambassador-designate has praised both terrorists and foreign terrorist organisations, including Hizbul Mujahideen, in stark and unsetting terms.

“He has encouraged young men to emulate jihadists like Burhan Wani, a former commander of Hizbul Mujahideen who dedicated his life to a holy war against India,” Perry said.

He said that in 2017, Khan lashed out at the US for designating the leader of Hizbul Mujahideen for sanctions, calling those sanctions “unjustifiable”.

OFFICE OF THE

YANTHAMO VILAGE COUNCIL DISTRICT WOKHA - 797111 : NAGALAND

CONGRATULATIONS Yanthamo Village Council, on behalf of the people of Yanthamo, extends our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Khonthungo Lotha, Deputy Secretary (H&FW), on being awarded the Governor ’s Commendation Certificate on the occasion of the 73rd Republic day, 2022.

We thank you for bringing laurels to the village through your well deserved award. This is an inspiration for the upcoming youth and children of our Village.

We wish you all the very best. May God continue to bless you in all your endeavours.

WC-28/22

Europeans rally behind Zelenskiy

Yisanbemo Odyuo Chairman Yanthamo Village Council

Nchumbemo M Ngullie Council Secretary Yanthamo Village

FELICITATION

Myanmar marks coup anniv with protests and unrest

NAY P Y I TAW, F E B 1 (AGENCIES): Streets in some of Myanmar’s main cities were nearly deserted on Tuesday as opponents of military rule held “silent strikes”, making the first anniversary of a coup that sparked deadly chaos and snuffed out tentative steps towards democracy.

The United States, Britain and Canada imposed new sanctions on the military and joined other countries in calling for a global halt in arms sales to Myanmar, a year after Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government was overthrown.

Since its bloody suppression of protests in the weeks following the coup, the military has faced armed resistance on multiple fronts in the countryside from groups allied with the ousted government.

On Tuesday, an explosion took placed during a procession of military supporters in the eastern border town of Tachileik, two witnesses told Reuters.

The blast killed two people, said one of the witnesses, and wounded more than 30 others.

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing extended a state of emergency imposed at the time of the coup for a further six months, state media announced on Tuesday, amid threats from “internal and external saboteurs”

A demonstrator making a three-finger protest symbol during a demonstration in Yangon, in February last year. (AP)

and “terrorist attacks and destruction”.

Activists urged people to stay indoors and businesses to close on Tuesday in a silent show of defiance, despite warnings of arrests, jail and a seizure of businesses.

“We might be arrested and spend our life in jail if we’re lucky. We might be tortured and killed if we’re unlucky,” said youth activist Nan Lin. STREETS QUIET Images on social media showed quiet streets in various cities including Mandalay, Magway, Myitkyina and Yangon, where pictures on a page put up by strike organisers later showed

a small protest at which people threw red paint on the ground. Pictures on an online portal and Telegram channel supportive of the military showed pro-junta rallies in the central town of Tase, and the capital, Naypyitaw, where thousands attended a rally, some dancing and holding aloft photographs of Min Aung Hlaing, with banners wishing him good health.

State media said the military was striving to hold an election when the country was “peaceful and stable”. A military government spokesman did not respond to telephone calls seeking comment on Tuesday.

The was no immediate

claim of responsibility for the explosion in Tachileik and a local militia group did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The town’s news agency said a soldier was among the two killed, and veterans among the wounded.

“We all heard an explosion and people ran randomly, shouting loudly,” a witness told Reuters by phone.

“I hid inside the house.”

Another witness told Reuters the town was now deserted.

“I don’t know how it started... We went there to help at about 12 noon today.

Two people died on spot.”

HUGE BACKLASH Such violence has become commonplace in Myanmar in the year since Suu Kyi and other ruling party members were arrested as they prepared to take their seats in parliament, after winning a 2020 election the generals accused them of rigging.

The coup triggered a huge backlash, with strikes and protests that led to about 1,500 civilians being killed in crackdowns and more than 11,787 unlawfully held, according to United Nations human rights office figures on Tuesday.

A junta spokesman did not respond to calls seeking comment on the U.N. figures. It has previous disputed the similar numbers from human rights groups.

The Thipüzumi Welfare Society Kohima with immense joy and pride, heartily congratulates Mr. Rothihü Tetseo, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Dimapur on being awarded the prestigious President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service.

The TWSK wishes him good health, long live and success in all his future endeavours. k-214/22

Sd/Dr. Rupfuhu Rose Chairman, TWSK

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INFOTAINMENT

10

Obesity ups kidney disease risk: Study O besity is likely to cause an increased risk of kidney disease, according to a study.

Chronic kidney disease affects more than 10 per cent of adults worldwide and is predicted to become a global threat to public health.

The findings of study, published in Cardiovascular Research, suggest that tackling obesity could have a powerful impact on kidney health.

Re s e a r c h e r s f r o m the UK’s University of Manchester were able to show that the causal effect of obesity on the kidney is only partly mediated by high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.

Through analysis of

467 kidney tissue samples, the study also uncovered the signatures of obesity on the human kidney - groups of genes and pathways that may potentially explain the effects of obesity on the kidney.

“Through the analysis of one of the largest collections of the human kidney samples, we have uncovered the specific renal

pathways associated with body mass index/waist circumference -- they are the most likely biological c o n n e c t i o n s b e t we e n obesity and kidney health and disease,” said principal investigator Professor Maciej Tomaszewski from the varsity.

Using data from around 300,000 par ticipants, the team

extracted information on the two most common measures of obesity, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC), and different measures of kidney function.

Most of the previous studies have been unable to explain if the relationship between obesity and renal disease was little more than an association.

However, through a technique called Mendelian Randomisation -- which groups people according to a genetic code randomly assigned at birth and removes any bias -they found that increasing va l u e s o f ge n e t i c a l ly predicted BMI and WC were causally associated with the measures of kidney function.

“Obesity and kidney disease are common complex disorders with an increasing clinical and economic impact on healthcare around the globe,” said first author Dr Xiaoguang Xu from the varsity.

“Our evidence substantiates the value of weight loss as a strategy of preventing or reversing a decline in kidney health, as well as decreasing the risk of renal disease.

“So, we hope our findings will help to stimulate further research and drive the development of public health policies to improve kidney health and prevent kidney disease through encouraging weight loss,” Xu said.

(IANS)

Bond’s Lynch, West Side Story’s DeBose among BAFTA Rising Star nominees

J

ames Bond star Lashana Lynch and “West Side Story” Golden Globe winner Ariana DeBose are among the nominees for the EE Rising Star Award at this year’s British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Film Awards.

At 18 years old, American actress Millicent Simmonds, who is deaf, is the youngest of the nominees. She is best known for starring in the “A Quiet Place” horror films.

The list of five contenders, revealed on Tuesday, also includes Ariana DeBose Lashana Lynch British actor Harris Dickinson, most recently seen in “The King’s Smit-McPhee, known for Oscar- Dog” as well as the more recent Man”, and Australian actor Kodi tipped Western “The Power of the “X-Men” films.

P

Ekta Kapoor

roducer Ekta Kapoor is all set to produce a new show through her digital production house, ALTBalaji.

It will be on the lines of a reality show for digital entertainment for which the banner has partnered with MX Player. The title and the concept of the show will be soon revealed.

On Tuesday, ALTBalaji took to their Instagram handle to share a creative

which read: “Ekta Kapoor to announce the biggest and most fearless reality show”. The caption read: “It’s showtime! It’s drama time! Are you ready to tune into excitement? It’s going to be intense!”

ALTBalaji, which was founded in 2017, has been an important part of the OTT system in India and their collaboration with MX Player is being touted as one of the groundbreaking content strategies through the said show.

In November 2021, Ekta was conferred the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award along with Kangana R a n a u t , K a r a n Jo h a r, Adnan Sami and late singer S.P. Balasubrahmanyam in a ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan.(IANS)

Ed Sheeran is Top of the Airwaves with 4.3 million spins worldwide

E

d Sheeran has been named the mostp l aye d a r t i s t o n the radio worldwide. The 30-year-old Grammywinner’s hits received an impressive 4.3 million plays on the airwaves over the past 12 months.

Ed was all over the radio over the festive period with his and Elton John’s festive hit ‘Merry Christmas’, and the LadBaby charity version of the track called ‘Sausage Rolls For Everyone’ topped the Official UK Chart.

Dua Lipa secured just 100,000 spins less than the ‘Bad Habits’ hitmaker over 12 months, while The Weeknd placed third place with three million.

The data from Viberate, who analysed 24000 radio stations in 150 countries, placed Queen in fourth place with 2.9 million, followed by 2.8 million plays of Maroon 5.

Music industry insights platform Viberate said: “We crunched the annual numbers behind every relevant music and social media channel, from Spotify to Beatport and TikTok, and drew conclusions regarding music industry trends and markets in 2022.”

In 2021, rock legends Queen were top of the airwaves.

The ‘Radio Ga Ga’ group’s drummer Roger Taylor is quoted by The Sun as saying: “I take great joy in the fact there’s an awful lot of love for us still.

It constantly surprises me.”

Queen have continued to appeal to the masses despite the passing of late great frontman Freddie Mercury - who died in 1991 from HIV/AIDs-related illness aged 45.

And guitarist Brian May - who has continued the ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ hitmakers’ legacy alongside Roger - previously said he credits former ‘American Idol’ star Adam Lambert, who performs in Freddie’s place at their shows, for their longevity.

He said: “In no way does he imitate Freddie but he provides that piece

of the jigsaw puzzle. It’s stupendous, we would never be doing this now if it weren’t for Adam.

“Sometimes I stop playing because I think ‘what did he just do?’

He’s so free with his interpretations and it’s just spine-chilling. The sound he makes and way he interprets a song.”

The 40-year-old star joined the line-up after he sang with Queen during the talent show’s season eight finale - which saw him finish runner-up - and then joined them for an award show in Ireland.

Brian explained: “There was something about Adam, this chemistry was instant and it was like we were already in a band with him.

(Contactmusic)

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Ekta Kapoor to produce new digital reality show

London-born Lynch was catapulted into the global spotlight last year as 007 agent Nomi in the latest James Bond film “No Time To Die”. She previously starred in “Captain Marvel”.

American actress DeBose won best supporting actress for her role in Steven Spielberg’s critically-acclaimed “West Side Story” remake at last month’s Golden Globes.

The BAFTA Film Awards ceremony will take place on March 13 in London. The full list of nominations will be announced on Thursday.

(Reuters)

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

dp-484/22

Lost

Please helP bring him home Name : Cash Breed : Rottweiler & Labrador mix Last seen Thahekhu Block-V Wearing Red Color Belt

reward ! ` ` `

dp-498/22

+91 87948 15024 +91 60095 67936

02-02-1972

02-02-2022

(Mopungchuket) Dear Papa & Ama, On this day as we Celebrate your 50th Marriage Anniversary, our hearts are filled with joy and gratitude for all the LoVE and BLEssING you have showered upon us.

The Lord has always been good to us, may His goodness be with you now and forever.

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mkc-43/22

Mr. Limatemjen & Mrs. Amena

We Love You.

Children, Grandchildren & In-laws mkc-44/22

K Y M C

K Y M C

11

SPORTS

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

ODI rankings: Mithali moves up Vekutho wins Phek Area Wrestling meet title ICC one spot to 2nd, Mandhana at 6th DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): Vekutho Soho from Phek village emerged as the new champion of the 27th senior and second under-16 wrestling meet 2022 of Phek Area Wrestling Association (PAWA) held on Tuesday at local ground Phek Town.

27-year-old Vekutho Soho defeated a veteran and for mer champion Surhoneyi Soho in the final match of the PAWA wrestling meet.

42-year-old Surhoneyi Soho also from Phek village is a celebrated veteran wrestler and 7th times champion of the Phek Area winning his last in the year 2018.

Celebrating his 25th year at the wrestling arena, he managed to win the first bout in the finals, but Vekutho Soho, a younger and smarter grappler outwitted his opponent Hükhoneyi Soho in the second and third bout to take the title for the first time.

Weighing 85 kgs and standing 5 feet 7 inches tall, Vekutho Soho is the son of renowned wrestler Hükhoneyi Soho. Surhoneyi Soho is the brother of Hükhoneyi Soho, who weights

The winners of the Phek Area Wrestling Association (PAWA) along with the champion Vekutho Soho and Waku K. Tara (hand raised) and others at Phek Town on Tuesday.

104 kgs and stands 5 feet 9 inches tall.

Akhrüku Vezüh (Khomi village) downed Sührhovoyi Neinu (Khomi village) to take the third position. The champion Vekutho walked home with a cash prize of Rs. 90,000, Surhoneyi received Rs 70,000, while third and fourth position holder Akhrüku Vezüh and Sührhovoyi Neinu got Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 40,000 respectively.

For U-16 category, Waku K. Tara (Losami village) took the first position followed by Khriesahu

Rhakho (Kutsapo village), third and fourth position went to Khosato Neinu and Kelelo Lohe.

The junior champion was awarded with Rs. 20,000, Rs. 15,000, Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 7000 respectively for first 2nd, 3rd and 4th position respectively for U-16 category.

Defending champion Vekuzo Vezuh lost his second-round match against Kuluvezo Soho and failed to enter the knockout stage.

A total of 64 wrestlers including 18 U-16 wrestlers competed for the coveted wrestling title.

Earlier, Küzholüzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA graced the inaugural session as the special guest. In his short address, he called upon the wrestling associations to improvise the standard of the training in order to compete along with other tribes.

Adding that not only in wrestling but also in other aspects of other career prospect, he viewed that the youths are lagging.

He said scientific training was the need of the hour to achieve better performances. Nienu noticed that the Chakhesang wrestlers are

still following the forefathers using old method and hasn’t improvised over the years. To this, he urged upon the need for more improvisation and more scientific training in their respective fields.

While also called upon the gathering to be more discipline in their profession to be better than others. He also encouraged the wrestlers to give their best in order become champions.

While guest of honour, NPF Phek division president Wepe Mekrisuh in his address suggested that traditional game should now turn into profession for wrestlers.

He said wrestling association has reach its fame to other parts of other tribe in Nagaland over the past years. With interest, he viewed that the wrestling has become a bigger prospect.

While adding that wrestler is not just about diet but also the need to maintain the physical aspects of the body. He also vouched for the need to give importance for U-16 wrestling for the growth of young wrestlers.

DUBAI, FEB 1 (IANS): India’s One-day International skipper Mithali Raj has risen one spot to second in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings for batters announced on Tuesday, closing the gap on Australia’s Alyssa Healy.

Mithali has displaced South African batter Lizelle Lee, who is now third on the list with 731 points, while the Indian stalwart is on 738.

India opener Smriti Mandhana, who was recently named ‘ICC women’s Cricketer of the Year for 2021’, continues to maintain her sixth spot in the rankings with 710 points.

West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews has progressed four places to 11th position in the latest rankings for bowlers after a fine show in the first two matches of their four-match against South Africa.

India’s pace bowler Jhulan Goswami continues to hold on to her No.2 spot in the ranking behind Australia’s Jess Jonassen in

Mithali Raj and Smriti Mandhana

the category.

Matthews, who grabbed two wickets each in both matches, is the highest-ranked bowler from the West Indies with other off-spinner Anisa Mohammed in 25th place and Shakera Selman 26th.

Seam bowler Shamilia Connell has moved up nine slots to 29th after taking three wickets in the two matches.

South Africa captain Sune Luus has advanced seven places to joint-34th among bowlers and is up two places to 44th in the batting list.

The all-rounders’ list also sees changes at the

top with Marizanne Kapp of South Africa slipping to third after missing the matches against the West Indies. Nat Sciver of England and Elisse Perry of Australia are ranked first and second.

Chedean Nation (up five places to 51st) of the West Indies and opener Tazmin Brits (up 25 places to 64th) of South Africa are others to move up the batters’ list in the latest update that sees Sri Lanka’s players drop out of the rankings tables as they have not played ODIs since October 2019 and will make a return once they play an ODI.

Lotha football C’ship: Longsa FC, Friends Joao Cancelo signs two-year 2nd late G. Rio memorial: Dimapur Club, NRSA & Glory Hunters register wins contract extension with Man City takes on Wokha in final today

Players in action between NRSA (Black) and Titans XI (Red).

DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): Longsa FC, Friends Club, NRSA and Glory Hunters have wo n their respective matches on the fourth day of the ongoing 11th Lotha football championship organised

by Wokha District Football Association (WDFC) on Tuesday at local ground Wokha.

The first match was played between Longsa Sports Association (LSA) and Yondon Youth Association, Pangti. In a onesided match, Longsa SA defeated Yondon Youth Association by 5-0, Iteibabe Kenn and Wonrhonthung scored two goals each for LSA, while Nukhosa Vero added one more goal in the dying minute to make it 5-0.

In the second match,

one of the tournament favourites Friends Club Wokha village (FCWV) beat XI Brother by 4-0.

Aloumai of FCWV became the second player to score hat trick who scored in the 8th, 15th and 40th minutes of the game.

Lirhonthung who scored the first hat trick of the tournament in their first match yet scored another goal in the 56th minute to make his individual tally to 4 goals making him the one of the top contenders for the highest scorer of the tournament. Thomas Lotha and Awangbo of FCWV were cautioned in the 23rd and 26th minutes for unsporting behaviours.

NRSA won their second match of the tournament by defeating Titans XI by 2-1. Early goals from

Meribemo and Zuben in the 6th and 8th minutes sealed victory for NRSA, the lone goal for Titans XI was scored by Ngulie Pochury in the 58th minute.

Glory Hunters defeated Old Aree Sporting Club by 3-1 in the last match, Kevizole of Glory Hunters scored in the 5th and 12th minutes while Yanpo Ovung added one more goal in the 45th minutes.

WEDNESDAY’S MATCHES 1st match: Kichers FC Vs A1 Tsungiki.

2nd match: United Sporting Club Koio Vs Lightning Eagles.

3rd match: Lower “E” Khel Vs Gallants FC Kohima.

4th match: Old Aree Sporting Club Vs Friends Club Wokha Village.

Covid cases within ‘controllable range’: Winter Games organisers BEIJING, FEB 1 (IANS): The Covid-19 situation at the Beijing Winter Olympics is within the ‘controllable range’, Huang Chun, deputy director-general, China’s Olympics Pandemic Prevention and Control Office said on Tuesday.

“As more people are entering China the imported Covid-19 cases are increasing, but it is within the controllable range,” Huang told in a news briefing on Tuesday.

“The COVID-19 situation is generally within our expected controllable range. So the Games participants, including athletes, and the Chinese public do not have to worry,” he added. However, Huang said rising cases were also a result of more effective and accurate Covid-19 detection techniques by K Y M C

customs. He said Olympics organisers were not considering any major changes to Covid-19 control policies at the Games. Meanwhile, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Tuesday that the organising committee for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics is hoping for stadium capacities of at least 30 percent despite China’s enforcement of tight regulations to contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

“In terms of capacity we are not there yet, because it has to be finetuned at a venue-by-venue basis, but I’d say if we have one person out of three (available spots) or out of two, that would already be a good result,” the IOC’s Olympic Games Executive Director Christophe Dubi said.

MANCHESTER, FEB 1 (IANS): Manchester City have confirmed that Portuguese full-back Joao Cancelo has signed a two-year contract extension, the club said in a release on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old’s new deal means he will remain at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2027.

“Manchester City is a fantastic club, so I am incredibly happy to have signed this new agreement.

City players have everything they need to reach their full potential, with amazing facilities, world-class teammates and an incredible manager who pushes us every single day.

There is nowhere better to play football and it’s a pleasure to work here,” he said. “I have so much I want to achieve before my career ends, and Manchester City offers me the best chance of fulfilling my ambitions. This new contract means I now have complete focus on improving my game and winning more trophies with this

DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): The final match of the second late G. Rio memorial boys (U-19) inter-district tournament will be played between defending champion Dimapur (topper of

Pool-A) and Wokha (topper of Pool-B) on February 2 at Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Sovima, Dimapur from 9 am onwards. Director General of Police, Nagaland, T. John Longkumer, IPS,

has been consented to grace the prize distribution and closing ceremony as special guest. Nagaland Cricket Association has invited all cricket lovers to come and witness the final match.

Joao Cancelo

team,” Cancelo was quoted as saying by Manchester City’s official website.

City’s Director of Football Txiki Begiristain said, “Joao is the ultimate professional. He absolutely loves football and applies himself every single day in a bid to become better. He sets really high standards, and any young player should observe the way Joao applies himself if they want a blueprint for success.

“He is so versatile.

Whether he plays rightback, left-back, or in midfield, he operates at the same high level. That is a dream AC & PS-PA players (blue) tackling the ball with the opponent Kichutip at the ongoing for a manager. I am really 27 Mokokchung Town Assembly Constituency at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, happy he has signed, and I Mokokchung, February 1. can’t wait to see him develop in the coming years.”

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

DAYO FELICITATES T h e D i m a p u r A o Yo u t h O r g a n i s a t i o n (DAYO) extends our heartiest congratulations to Shri Rothihu Tetseo IPS, Commissioner of Police Dimapur on being conferred the Presidential Medal for Distinguished Service on the eve of Republic Day, 2022.

He is a hardworking, sincere and honest police officer and that Dimapur public have begun to repose trust with the police as the prevailing law and order situation has been greatly improved at the moment under his able leadership.

This is a well-deserved Award as we look forward for stronger co-operation with the law enforcing agencies to make the 3 districts a peaceful zone for equitable development. DAYO wishes our leader a bright future.

Media Cell, DAYO

acKNOwLeDGeMeNT Born : 04/08/1961 – Died : 26/01/2022

LaTe YiBeMO L. TuNGOe

Born on : 01/01/1939 – Died on : 01/01/2022 “If we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord.

Therefore, whether we live or die, we belong to God”.

Romans 14:8

The family of Late Yibemo L. Tungoe wishes to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following our sad loss. We offer our heartfelt thanks to the many friends, neighbours, churches, relatives and well wishers who provided emotional and practical support for us at this difficult time. We especially thank those who travelled long distance with the mortal remain till his eternal rest.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our appreciation and deepest gratitude.

May God’s richest blessing rest upon each and everyone in our prayers.

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Loving wife, son, daughter, grandchildren & in-laws

Through this column, we the bereaved family of Late Tsolow Odyuo convey our heartfelt gratitude to those who stood by us through prayers, physically, financially and emotionally during the prolonged illness and sad demise of our beloved Tsolow Odyuo.

We express our sincere gratitude to : • Kohima Lotha Baptist Church • Officers’ Hill & Naga Hospital Kohima Lotha Khumshum • Phiro Village Baptist Church • Kohima Phiro Khumshum • Kohima Phiro Odyuo Ekhung • Kohima, Dimapur, Wokha and Phiro Union • Various organisations, groups and ministries • Doctors, nurses and staff of Naga Hospital Authority Kohima • Neighbours and colony members of Officers’ Hill Kohima • Relatives, friends and well wishers • Treasury Staff of Baghty and Wokha We convey our special thanks to : Kohima North Treasury & Gospel Riders Ministry We regret our inability to thank each and every individual but it is our humble prayer that our Lord Almighty abundantly bless you all. k-207/22

Loving wife, sons and relatives K Y M C

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SPORTS

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

IPL auction: Warner, Rabada, 8 in marquee set Nadal feels lucky to be part of ‘Big Three’

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (IANS): A total of 10 star cricketers -- David Warner, R Ashwin, Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan, Faf du Plessis, Shreyas Iyer, Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Shami -- will be part of the marquee set that will ring in the 2022 IPL mega auction, scheduled on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, the BCCI confirmed to the franchises on Tuesday.

The BCCI has informed the franchises that the auction process, “will commence with the marquee set followed by a full round of capped players by specialism -- batsmen, allrounders, wicket Keeper/ batsmen, fast bowlers and spin bowlers and then move into a full specialism round of uncapped players.”

The IPL on Tuesday released its final auction pool, which has been pruned to 590 from the original list of 1214 players, which was compiled and distributed on January 22. This final list includes 44 new names that were registered in the auction pool upon the request

Kagiso Rabada

R Ashwin

David Warner

Shreyas Iyer

of the 10 franchises.

Those 44 also include England fast bowler Jofra Archer, who the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently said is in the final stages of his recovery from elbow surgery with a planned return to all cricket in June.

In the email sent to franchises, IPL chief operating officer Hemang Amin said Archer would be part of the accelerated set of players, which will commence from player No 161. Amin also added the ECB had made it clear that Archer was “unlikely” to play in IPL 2022 and if any franchise picks him up they will not be able to get a replacement.

“The ECB has regis-

tered Jofra Archer for the auction with a view to potential participation in 2023 and 2024, as due to his current injury it is unlikely that he can participate in IPL 2022,” ESPNcricinfo quoted Amin as saying.

“Therefore, his name has been included in the auction list but he won’t feature in the marquee or other sets to be presented. He will be available to be called during the accelerated auction and whoever picks him will not get a replacement player for IPL 2022 season for his place as he is already injured and unlikely to participate in IPL 2022 season,” he added.

Another notable addition in the new list is Usman Khawaja, who had not enrolled initially. Apart

from Archer and Khawaja, new additions include one from Afghanistan, five more from Australia, 11 from India, two Ireland, six from New Zealand, two from Scotland, four more from Sri Lanka and West Indies each, and seven more from South Africa.

A notable absentee from the additions is Chris Gayle. It has been learnt that at least a couple of franchises had requested for Gayle’s inclusion, however, the West Indian legend has decided to stay away from the IPL this year. There were also requests for the recall of Ben Stokes and Mitchell Starc, but no success was there on that front.

Amongst 590 players (370 Indian, 220 overseas)

who have registered for the auction, 228 are capped players, 355 are uncapped players and seven belong to Associate Nations.

“Rs 2 crore is the highest reserve price and as many as 48 players have chosen to place themselves in this bracket,” the BCCI said in a statement.

There are 20 players in the auction list with a reserve price of Rs 1.5 crore while 34 players are in the list of cricketers with a reserve price of Rs one crore.

A fierce battle among 10 franchises to acquire the services of some of the finest Indian and world cricketing talent is on the cards during an action-packed IPL 2022 player auction in Bengaluru.

MADRID, FEB 1 (AGENCIES): Rafael Nadal said he was lucky to be part of an era of tennis that included Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic after the Spaniard won a men’s record 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open to move one ahead of his two great rivals.

Nadal roared back from two sets down to edge Daniil Medvedev 2-6 6-7(5) 6-4 6-4 7-5 in a classic final on Sunday, only months after fearing his glorious career might be over because of a niggling left foot injury. read more He then paid tribute to Federer, who missed the year’s first Grand Slam to continue his rehabilitation from knee surgery and Djokovic, who was deported following a dispute over Australia’s COVID-19 entry requirements and his unvaccinated status.

“At the end of the day, it’s just a game and in some way we achieved more than what we ever dreamed of when we were kids,” Nadal told reporters. “It doesn’t matter that much if one is 21, one is 20, or the

Rafael Nadal

other finished 23 and the other with 21.

“I think we did very important things for our sport and we achieved our dreams and we enjoy it. I feel lucky to be part of this era that has been very special for our sport.”

The 35-year-old, who pulled out of Wimbledon, the Tokyo Olympics and the U.S. Open in 2021 and returned to competitive action last month, said the satisfaction of winning his second Australian Open crown was impossible to describe.

“It’s amazing to have this trophy with me,” Nadal said. “I tried hard during my career here in Australia, finally, it was probably the most unexpected year for me to achieve, one more time this beautiful trophy so I’m super happy.”

Nadal said he was not thinking about his next tournament.

“I have my schedule planned, but I’m enjoying the moment... I need to see how my body recovers from an amazing month and I’m going to make my decision,” Nadal said.

Sports Budget increased by Rs 305.58 Without Joel Embiid, Sixers stretch win streak to 5 crore, emphasis on Khelo India and NYS

Nirmala Sitharaman

NEW DELHI, FEB 1 (PTI): Country’s tremendous success at the Tokyo Olympics seems to have influenced the sports budget as the central government on Tuesday allocated Rs 3062.60 crore for financial year 2022-23 -- an increase of Rs 305.58 crore, compared to the last year’s amount.

In the last financial year, the government had allocated Rs 2596.14 crore for sports, which was later revised to Rs 2757.02 crore.

India won won seven medals, including a historic track and field gold, at the Tokyo Olympics. The sporting activities have also resumed in a phased manner in the country and 2022

is an important season because of two global events -- the Birmgham Commonwealth Games and Hangzhou Asian Games -- lined up. Considering all of it, the government may have decided to spend more on sporting activities.

The gover nment’s flagship Khelo India programme witnessed am increase of Rs 316.29 crore in the 2021-22 budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday.

The financial allocation towards Khelo India programme, which got Rs 657.71 crore in the last budget, was increased to Rs 974 crore. The total encouragement and awards

to sports persons have seen a substantial increase from Rs 245 crore to Rs 357 crore.

The Sports Authority of India’s budget had been reduced by Rs 7.41 crore to Rs 653 crore.

The SAI is the nodal organisation to manage nationals camps, provide infrastructure, equipment and other logistics to the country’s sportspersons.

The allocation towards National Sports Development Fund has been reduced by Rs 9 crore to Rs 16 crore. The National service scheme has witnessed a whopping jump of Rs 118.50 crore from Rs 165 crore to Rs 283.50 core.

The allocation towards National Sports Federations (NSFs)remained untouched at Rs 280 crore.

As far as incentives for sportspersons are concerned, the budget has proposed a minimal hike of Rs crore to Rs 55 crore.

The budget for National Sports Development Fund has been further reduced to Rs Rs 16 crore from Rs 25 crore.

PHILADELPHIA, FEB 1 (AGENCIES): Tyrese Maxey scored 33 points, including the go-ahead driving layup with 26.4 seconds remaining in overtime, and the host Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 122-119 on Monday.

Tobias Harris produced 31 points and Andre Drummond had 16 points and 23 rebounds. The Sixers have won five straight.

Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 37 points and Desmond Bane added 34, including five points in overtime. Jaren Jackson Jr. had 18 and Steven Adams swept 12 rebounds for Memphis, which had its three-game winning streak snapped.

The Sixers played without All-Star Joel Embiid, who was given the night off for rest after competing in 21 games in a row. Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) grabs a loose ball from Memphis Grizzlies

Warriors 122, Rockets 108

guard Desmond Bane (22) during the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center.

Pacers 122, Clippers 116

Rookie Isaiah Jackson collected a season-high 26 points and 10 rebounds to lift short-handed Indiana past Los Angeles in Indianapolis.

Caris LeVert scored 17 points, Duane Washington Jr. added 16 and Terry Taylor chipped in 15 for Indiana. Amir Coffey scored 27 points and Reggie Jackson added 21 for the Clippers, who concluded an eight-game road trip with a 4-4 record.

Stephen Curry scored 21 of his game-high 40 points in the fourth quarter and Andrew Wiggins chipped in 23 points as Golden State handed Houston its 11th consecutive home loss.

The Warriors earned their sixth win in a row while the Rockets dropped their fourth straight overall.

Curry, who shot 7-for-10 overall in the final frame, including 4-for-7 from 3-point range, recorded his

sixth 40-point game of the season. Wiggins grabbed five rebounds and shot 8 of 14 for the Warriors, who hit 53.8 percent from the floor and went 17 of 40 (42.5 percent) from behind the 3-point arc.

Suruhuto gets int’l standard size football ground

India v WI ODI to be be played in closed doors in Ahmedabad

Everton sign England international midfielder Dele Alli on a free transfer

DIMAPUR, FEB 1 (NPN): Advisor for Tourism, Art and Culture government of Nagaland, H Khehovi Yeputhomi inaugurated the international standard size football ground on February 1 at his 33 Assembly Constituency, Suruhuto town.

Speaking at the inaugural programme, the advisor thanked God for enabling the long-awaited public ground could be constructed as planned. Yeputhomi said as he is always committed to serving the area people, he has today fulfilled the dream of the area people by the grace of God. The advisor said since all the area people have pledged to focus on area development during the election campaign, he reminded his constituency people to remember that pledge afresh.

Khehovi lamented that due to pandemic and lock down situations, many of his plans and programmes are being crippled and deformed otherwise his one and only objective is to depict what’s there in his mind through actions but not in words.

To have an international standard size football ground at Suruhuto town was long felt dream which has now been fulfilled, he

H Khehovi Yeputhomi and others during the inauguration of the football ground.

added. The advisor is optimistic and positive that this ground will benefit the younger generation in fostering the youngsters in the field of sports. He hoped that the sports lovers will make good use of the football ground and exhibit their innate talents to the world of sports as a career with success.

Yeputhomi said Suruhuto being the headquarters of his constituency, his prior focus is to develop Suruhuto town because the standard and development of Suruhuto town itself is the reflection of the entire Suruhuto area.

The advisor appealed

the Suruhuto town dwellers to consider the common property as individual’s property so that the property may not go wasted and neglected.

He also told the area people to have patience because nothing is readymade, there is a time to sow and time to reap so also development works also eventually take shapes but are not done overnight.

“People should also understand the reality and patiently give time to leaders to materialize their wishes and requirements”, he stated.

Expressing his happiness over the completed

ground, the advisor thanked all the concerns who have contributed their support in different ways and prayed that God bless them all in return.

Chairman Adhoc Town Council Suruhuto, Hovishe Ayemi while highlighting the eight months long ground construction said, levelling two big mountains to make it an international standard playground is something that every sensible person should learn to appreciate the advisor Khehovi Yeputhomi. He said it is guilty in the sight of God if they speak ill of the man who does appreciable work for the entire area.

AHMEDABAD, FEB 1 (IANS): The three-match One-day International series between India and West Indies will be played behind closed doors, Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA)confirmed on Tuesday. “Considering the current situation, all the matches will be played behind closed doors,” the official handle of Gujarat Cricket Association tweeted.

“We are all set to host the West Indies Tour of India ODI Series 2022. 1st ODI on 6th of Feb will be a very special and historic match as India will be playing it’s 1000th ODI. The Indian team will be the first cricket team in the world to achieve this feat,” it added.

India will play three ODIs at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad from February 6 followed by the T20I series at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata from February 16.

Meanwhile, the West Bengal government has allowed 75 per cent crowd attendance for the threematch T20I series, scheduled to be played at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

LO N D O N, F E B 1 (IANS): A day after Frank Lampard took over as Premier League side Everton’s manager, the club completed the signing of midfielder Dele Alli from Tottenham Hotspur on a two-and-ahalf-year contract until the end of June 2024.

Alli moved on a free transfer to Everton in what was one of the biggest moves of the deadline day of a thoroughly actionpacked winter transfer window.

The England international, who has played 269 times and scored 67 goals for Tottenham Hotspur after joining in February 2015, is Lampard’s first permanent addition, following a loan move for Dutch player Donny van de Beek from Manchester United on the final day of the January transfer window.

Dele could well make his Everton debut in the Premier League game against Newcastle United on February 8.

The 25-year-old, who is Cup-tied for the weekend FA Cup fourth-round match against Brentford,

Christian Wood (24 points, 13 rebounds) and Kevin Porter Jr. (17 points, 11 assists) posted doubledoubles for the Rockets.

host Oklahoma City beat Portland to snap a sevengame losing streak.

The Thunder came back from an 18-point, second-quarter deficit to win at home for the first time since Dec. 31. Josh Giddey, who moved over to point guard in Shai GilgeousAlexander’s absence, had 14 points and 12 rebounds.

CJ McCollum scored a game-high 21 points on 10-of-17 shooting to lead the Trail Blazers, who have dropped two consecutive games and four of their past five. Norman Powell added 17 points, and Jusuf Nurkic had 14 points and nine rebounds.

Thunder 98, Trail Blazers 81

Luguentz Dort scored a team-high 18 points as

Dele Alli

has 37 England caps and was instrumental in England’s run to the 2018 World Cup semifinals in Russia. “I’m delighted to have signed for Everton, a huge club with a great fan base and history. I’m eager to get started and can’t wait for my first game in an Everton shirt,” Alli said after signing the contract.

“I’m looking forward to helping the team and the opportunity to work with the new manager Frank Lampard. I’ve had a few good conversations with him (Lampard) already; he’s a player I admired through his whole career

watching him. I’m pleased to work with him… it’s very exciting, I’m sure we can do great things together.

“I just want to be happy playing football. Working with Lampard, and the great players Everton have got, is a great opportunity for me to do that. I’m excited to go there, show the fans what I can do, and help the Club as much as I can.”

Dele had won the ‘Young Player of the Year’ award in his debut EPL campaign in 2015/16 after reaching double figures for goals.

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