February 24, 2021

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 79

DIMAPUR, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021 Pages 12 ` 5.00

Equestrian K. Rio feted by YRS

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sports, Page 12

Niki-led NSCN (K) reacts to reports DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): Niki Sumi-led NSCN (K) said the “paradoxical and dichotomous” manner in which a statement by some Naga national workers had been summed up and was being circulated in social media was self-defeating.

Referring to the allegations levelled against it, the organisation asked all to refer to its December 26, 2020 press statement wherein it clearly explained its political stance and also condemned the malicious news reports of some media houses.

A statement issued through MIP kilonser, Nikato Pilot Sumi, the group reiterated its solemn commitment to bring to fruition an inclusive Naga political solution.

Vardhan to lay MCM foundation stone DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): Union Minister for Health &Family, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, would be laying the foundation stone of the Medical College, Mon (MCM) on February 26, 2021 at 10am at District Hospital, Mon. The programme would also be attended by chief minister, Neiphiu Rio; health minister, S Pangnyu Phom; Lok Sabha MP, Tokheho Yepthomi and legislators.

Fuel prices rise after 2-day hiatus

DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): Even as the state government marginally slashed sales tax on petroleum products with effect from midnight of February 22, 2021, the state-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) increased prices of petrol and diesel on Tuesday after a two-day hiatus. Petrol and diesel prices were raised by 35 paise per litre each, sending retail rates to an alltime high.

After Tuesday’s rate revision and decrease in sales tax, petrol price in Dimapur stood at Rs.89.95 per litre and a litre of diesel was priced at Rs.83.56. On Monday, petrol price in Dimapur was Rs.93.01 per litre and price of diesel was Rs.83.92 per litre.

In the state capital Kohima, a litre of petrol was sold at Rs.90.86 and diesel was retailing at Rs.84.29 per litre. On Monday, prices of petrol and diesel in Kohima stood at Rs.93.93 per litre and Rs.84.65 per litre respectively. Fuel prices had risen for 12 straight days before hitting a two-day pause button on February 21 and 22.

This is it!

“After all that hard work, there’s 15% cut in the project. That means bye bye to our incentive.”

K Y M C

Toolkit case: Delhi court grants bail to Disha Ravi ‘Citizens can’t be jailed for disagreeing with state policies’ NEW DELHI, FEB 23 (PTI): In a blow to Delhi police, a court here Tuesday granted bail to climate activist Disha Ravi, arrested in connection with allegedly being involved in sharing a “toolkit” on social media related to the farmers’ protest, saying citizens are conscience keepers of government in any democratic nation and cannot be put behind the bars simply because they choose to disagree with the State policies.

The court said the evidence produced by police against Ravi was “scanty and sketchy” and there was nothing on record to establish any direct link between her and pro-Khalistan activists of ‘Poetic Justice Foundation’ (PJF) and also there was not even an iota of evidence brought connecting the perpetrators of the January 26 violence in the national capital with PJF or her.

Further, it observed that there was nothing on record to suggest that the activist subscribed to any secessionist idea and there is absolutely no link established on record between her and PJF. In the 18-page order, Additional Sessions Judge

Disha Ravi (File)

Dharmender Rana granted relief to Ravi on a personal bond of Rs.one lakh and two sureties of like amount.

It noted that the activist has “absolutely blemish free criminal antecedents”.

Ravi has been slapped with the charge of sedition in the case which entails maximum punishment of life sentence. She is also booked for the offences of criminal conspiracy, provoking people to cause riot and promoting enmity between different groups.

The judge said the freedom of speech and expression includes the right to seek a global audience and that there are no geographical barriers on communication and that creation of a WhatsApp group or being editor of an innocuous Toolkit was not an offence.

While the order on bail was being pronounced, Ravi was produced before another court on expiry of her custodial interrogation by police, which sought

her further custody by four days.

As soon as the hearing on police plea started, Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Pankaj Sharma, who was informed about the bail order by the superior court, said “in view of the bail order, this application (seeking further custody) becomes infructuous. The application will be disposed of post confirmation of bail.”

The activist appeared relieved after hearing that she was granted bail.

The Sessions Judge said “considering the scanty and sketchy evidence available on record, I do not find any palpable reasons to breach the general rule of ‘Bail’ against a 22 years old young lady, with absolutely blemish free criminal antecedents and having firm roots in the society, and send her to jail,” the judge said.

“In my considered opinion, Citizens are conscience keepers of government in any democratic Nation. They cannot be put behind the bars simply because they choose to disagree with the State policies.

The offence of sedition cannot be invoked to minister to the wounded vanity of the governments,” the court said.

The court said the difference of opinion, disagreement, divergence, dissent, or for that matter, even disapprobation, are recognised legitimate tools to infuse objectivity in state policies.

nagalandpostofficial nagalandpostofficial

Protests against coup in Myanmar continue international, Page 9

$68mn project signed to improve education in State Spl. Correspondent

NEW DELHI, FEB 23 (NPN): The Government of India, Government of Nagaland and the World Bank have signed a $68 million project to enhance the governance of schools across Nagaland as well as to improve teaching practices and learning environments in select schools.

According to an official statement, the “Nagaland: Enhancing Classroom Teaching and Resources Project” would improve classroom instruction; create opportunities for the professional development of teachers; and build technology systems to provide students and teachers with more access to blended and online learning as well as

allow better monitoring of policies and programs.

About 150,000 students and 20,000 teachers in the government education system in Nagaland would benefit from the statewide reforms in schools.

Additional Secretary, Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, CS Mohapatra said that human resources development plays a key role in any development strategy and the Centre has taken several concrete steps to transform the education landscape in India. He said that the education project in Nagaland would address the critical gaps faced by students and teachers and play an important role in the development of the state.

The agreement was signed by Mohapatra on be-

half of the Government of India; Shanavas C, Principal Director, department of School Education on behalf of Nagaland Government; and Junaid Ahmad, Country Director, India on behalf of the World Bank.

The statement pointed out that Nagaland was facing challenges of weak school infrastructure, lack of opportunities for the professional development of teachers and limited capacity on the part of communities to partner effectively with the school system. It said that COVID19 pandemic has further accentuated those challenges and created additional stress and disruptions to the state’s school education system.

This project is designed to support the Nagaland government’s ongoing ef-

Aqahuto area CSOs suspend stir with rider DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): In response to the State government’s appeal and considering the reasons cited for delay in acceding to their demands and the assurance for taking necessary urgent steps for addressing them, Aqahuto area civil society organisations (CSOs) have announced suspending chakka bandh/agitation for the time being.

In a letter to deputy commissioner (DC) Dimapur Rajesh Soundararajan through Dhansiripar SDO (C), the CSOs however stated that they were suspending their stir subject to timely and urgent steps for addressing their eight-point charter of demands, be-

sides urgently implementing joint commissioner of Nagaland’s directive of July 8, 2019 to DC to “immediately vacate” any person from the disputed area.

The CSOs threatened to further resume their agitation in the event of any delay or failure to implement the chief secretary’s order of June 25, 2019 for maintaining status quo and for stopping any activity or development and on nonimplementation of the joint commissioner’s July 8, 2019 order for immediate eviction of illegal occupants from the disputed area.

They insisted immediate implementation of the above in the light of

“incessant and continuous threat” by illegal encroachers, mostly from neighbouring Manipur, on “our village lands” in gross violation of the government orders.

The letter was signed by head GB and Aqahuto Area GB Union president Kakiho Achumi, Aqahuto Sumi Totimi Hoho president Sumiholi Swu, Aqahuto Area Youth Front president Ashito Sumi, Aqahuto Area Students’ Union president Akai Swu and Aqahuto Area Sports Association president Mughalu Yeptho.

Meanwhile, in another letter to the DC, the CSOs and general public of Aqahuto set a seven-day period for the (Cont’d on p-5)

CNCCI to join ‘Bharat PDA delegation calls on Finance minister Sitharaman Vyapar Bandh’ on Feb 26 DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) Tuesday announced its decision to support and join the one-day “Bharat Vyapar Bandh” on February 26, 2021 called by Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) to oppose recent Goods and Service Tax (GST) amendment.

In a press release, CNCCI chairman Dr. Khekugha Muru and general secretary Dr. Seyievilie Mor have directed all the district chamber of commerce and industry to enforce “Bharat Vyapar Bandh” on February 26, 2021 from 6 am to 4 pm in their respective districts.

CNCCI stated that the bandh has been necessitated as the existing GST

regime has become difficult for business community to comply unless it was simplified.

CNCCI said that the demand by business community across the country to simplify GST regime has not yet been addressed forcing the business community to call for the bandh.

The confederation informed that the proposed bandh would be limited only to commercial business activities and all other activities would not come under the purview of bandh, adding that other activities would continue as normal.

Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry has, therefore, appealed to the consumers to bear with the inconveniences.

DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): A People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) delegation called on the union Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman at North Block, New Delhi on Tuesday and took up several issues including Trans Nagaland Highway.

The delegation included State BJP president and minister higher education and tribal affairs Temjen Imna Along; minister housing & mech Tongpang Ozukum; BJP national spokesperson and advisor for IT&C, S&T and NRE, Mmhonlumo Kikon, advisor horticulture, border affairs Mhathung Yanthan and advisor TE and election Medo Yokha.

In a press release, PRO (IPR) Nagaland House, New Delhi K. Mere stated that the delegation urged

PDA legislators with Nirmala Sitharaman in Delhi, Tuesday. (PRO NL House)

Sitharaman for special allocation for all round development of the State.

Kikon requested the union minister to provide special allocation in the road sector, particularly for the development of the Trans Nagaland Highway, which would connect all the foot hills of state.

During the discussion,

CAG report on State govt’s finances DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India in its report for the year ended March 2019 (Analysis of Finances of the State Government) stated that the State registered a Revenue Surplus of Rs. 517.43 crore during 2018-19 but recorded Fiscal Deficit (Rs. 1082.32 crore) which was 4.06 per cent of GSDP and thus exceeded 3 per cent norms fixed by NFRBM Act and 3.25 per cent by XIV FC. It pointed out that the State’s Own Resources (Own Tax and Non-Tax Resources) were also a meager 10 per cent or less, of the

total Revenue Receipts, in last five years. The Capital Expenditure of Rs. 1595.56 crore increased by 25.16 per cent and its ratio to Total Expenditure stood at 12.74 per cent which was less than the combined average (15.69 per cent) of Special Category States.

Revenue Expenditure accounted for 87.22 per cent of the State’s Aggregate Expenditure, leaving only 12.78 per cent for Capital Expenditure for investment in Infrastructure and Asset creation, it added.

The report stated that the overall Development Expenditure of the State

decreased by 3.44 per cent in respect of Total Expenditure as compared to previous year.

On investments of Rs. 294.17 crore in statutory corporations, government companies, joint stock companies and co-operatives, the report said the government yielded a return of just 0.22 per cent while it paid 7.14 per cent on its borrowings.

Accumulated losses in five working government companies had completely eroded their paid-up capital, it said.

On Financial Management and Budgetary Control, CAG said that during the year (as on March

20219), there was an overall Saving of Rs. 5311.78 crore only, of which 99.81 per cent was surrendered (Rs. 5301.53 crore). It said that in 27 cases Rs. 5287.64 crore were surrendered on the last two working days of March 2019 indicating inadequate financial control. In 116 Sub-heads, the Surrenders amounted to more than 50 per cent of the Provisions, it said.

It further pointed out that excess expenditure over the allocations amounting to Rs. 723.69 crore pertaining to the years 2012-13 to 201718 was not regularised till December 2019.

Imna Along stressed on the importance of the Trans Nagaland Highway. He also appealed to the union finance minister on the National Education Policy and the need for considering the special needs of the North Eastern States.

On the issue of farmer production organization for Nagaland, raised by Mhat-

hung, the union minister assured to extend all possible assistance.

Tongpang requested the union finance to consider the proposal of the State for development of an International Exhibition and Convention Center Dimapur district under Externally Aided Project (Cont’d on p-5) (EAP).

2 mutant strains not behind surge in cases in Maha, Kerala NEW DELHI, FEB 23 (PTI): There is no direct relation between the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra and some other states, and the mutant virus strains— N440K and E484Q— of SARS-CoV-2, the Centre said Tuesday.

Addressing the media, NITI Aayog member (Health) VK Paul said 187 people have tested positive for UK strain of SARSCoV-2 in India so far, while six have been detected with South Africa variant. Also, one person has been detected with Brazil variant so far.

“N440K and E484Q variants of SARS-CoV-2 have been detected in Maharashtra, Kerala and Telangana. Also, three other mutated strains-- one each from UK, South Africa and Brazil are already present in India. But there is no reason for us to believe presently, on the basis of scientific information, that they are responsible for the upsurge of the outbreak in some districts of Maharashtra and Kerala,” he said. Kerala and Maharashtra account for 75% of total active COVID19 cases in the country.

forts to improve and develop a more resilient education system in the state.

Education Specialist and World Bank’s task team leader for the project, Kumar Vivek, said that the project would support the state’s efforts to reform and improve the learning environment in schools.

As part of that strategy, approximately 15 out of Nagaland’s 44 higher secondary schools would be developed into school complexes that operationalize the envisioned learning environment during the project period. The $68 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has a final maturity of 14.5 years including a grace period of five years.

NH-129A: LVC, DVC serve 3-day ultimatum on govt DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): Lamhai village council (LVC) and Dungki village council (DVC) Peren district Tuesday served a three-day ultimatum on the state government to immediately rectify the proposed diversion of NH-129A from Lamhai-Dungki village to Kiyevi village.

In an ultimatum addressed to the commissioner Nagaland, LVC chairman Haibamko and DVC chairman Namgong Ipuing cautioned that government’s failure to honour their ultimatum would compel the village council to impose “indefinite road blockade” starting February 27, 2021 between Tehaiki river and Nkwakreu river.

The two councils stated that NH-129A was proposed to pass through LamhaiDungki village, adding that village council has already issued No Objection Certificate. The two councils, however, stated that the road was “tendered to pass through Kiyevi village and not Lamhai-Dungki village as agreed upon.” LVC and DVC stated that they strongly opposed such diversion, which they warned could create more law and order situation in the district.

Stat govt effects bureaucratic rejig

DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, the state government on Tuesday ordered the transfer and posting of 80 IAS/NCS and NSS officers with immediate effect: Temsunaro Aier, NCS secy Soil & Water Cons.

(Designate) is transferred as MD. Samagra Shiksha vice Kevileno, special secy, Planning & Co-Ordination, School Education & SCERT relieved Angelina Tajen NCS, jt secy NRE on promotion has been retained as addl secy NRE; Akunu S. Meyase, NCS jt secy, P&AR on promotion has been retained as addl secy, P&AR. L. Jamithung Lotha, NCS, addl secy Border Affairs & addl. director Border Affairs to hold additional charge of jt. commr, Commissioner’s office; P. Mono Khaimniungan, NCS, dy. secy Sericulture has been promoted as jt secy Sericulture; V. Lovitoly Sema NCS, (Cont’d on p-5) K Y M C

2

state

Literary day celebrated in Phek

Literary day in progress at GHS Razeba town on Tuesday.

DIMAPUR: District Administration & District Level Centre for Women - Mahila Shakti Kendra (BBBP), Phek Celebrated Literary Day at GHS Ra-

zeba Town, Phek district under BBBP on February 23.

According to a press release, Phek & nodal officer BBBP, Phek, N. Bhavani

Sri encouraged students to support women and to reflect within and analyse if there was any way that they were not standing for gender equality.

She expressed that gender equality should be reflected not only in opportunities but also in taking up responsibilities.

M e a n w h i l e, p o etr y writing competition was held under the theme, “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao”/”Naotume na Lukhelu-u, Hasu pfo naotume na – mudapio”.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by women welfare officer DLCW- Mahila Shakti Kendra, Vileno Kapu, graduate teacher, GHS, Razeba, Neingutsii Sami delivered welcome address, Pastor Baptist Church, Vizo Pohena pronounced invocation and vote of thanks by EAC Razeba Town, Kelengunuo Soho.

The programme was followed by recreational games and concluded with prize distribution as well as nutritional foods & gift hampers to the children.

KVK Zbto conducts NCIPM program DIMAPUR: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Zunheboto, Nagaland University, conducted NCIPM, New Delhi sponsored a training programme on integrated pest management on fruits and vegetables on February 19 at Litta new village.

A press release from KVK, NI senior scientist and head Dr. Rakesh Kumar Chaurasia stated that resource person of the programme, ACTO plant protection Toshi Longkumer highlighted on the need of IPM in pest management and explained different tactics to be adopted in insect pest management methods.

Sprayers, yellow sticky traps, bio-pesticides and vegetable seeds were distributed during the programme.

A coffee farm in the village was also identified and adopted for IPM. Altogether 53 farmers attended and benefitted in the day long programme.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

C-Edge College celebrates IMLD

Students in traditional attires performing at the IMLD programme.

DIMAPUR: C-Edge Col- tilingualism. general. lege Dimapur celebrated Highlighting the Earlier, BA VI SemesInternational Mother Lan- urgency required by the ter, Limugha Zhimo hosted guage Day (IMLD) on present generation to un- the programme, president February 22 on the theme derstand and learn one’s of evangelical union, BBA “fostering multilingualism mother tongue, she enlight- VI Semester, D Esther Sofor inclusion in education ened the gathering to hold nar pronounced invocation, and society” at the Col- on to one’s language while BA VI semester students of lege premises, GK Audi- respecting other language english department pretorium. and dialects and to pre- sented a folk fusion, SapuA press release by the serve and promote one’s na and Sotsula of BA II college stated that while identity.

Semester from department speaking on the theme, Rhakho further em- of English recited poems fices and their cooperation assistant professor, depart- phasised on the impor- in various dialects and vote towards the Gram Seva ment of political science, tance of fostering multi- of thanks was delivered programme.

Duvolu Rhakho stressed lingualism in educational by Soun Lam of BA VI Earlier, program manon the importance of mul- foundation and society in semester. ager Pfokho John and convergence officer, SBI Gram Seva – AIDA, Imnayangla Jamir highlighted about GSK administrator while Bosco BED College, Rev. Fr. Varghese Mecher y SDB pronounced prayer to bless the SBI Gram Seva programme.

It may be noted that digitalisation is one of the focus areas of the Gram Seva Programme and GSK is centre.

GSK which is a community information centre will help the community in availing facilities such as printing, photo copy- Four-day exposure visit to Tuensang district for 12 farmers from Sendenyu, New ing and other online ser- Sendenyu and Thongsunyu villages under Tseminyu block was organised by NEIDA. vices.

The visiting farmers were hosted by Eleutheros Christian Society (ECS), Tuensang.

Inauguration of Gram Seva Kendra

Officials at the inauguration of Gram Seva Programme on Tuesday.

DIMAPUR: As part of the SBI Gram Seva Programme implemented in five adopted villages by ANMA Integrated Development Association (AIDA), Don Bosco, under

Chümoukedima sub-division of Dimapur district, namely, Diezephe, Bade and Urra were formally inaugurated on February 22.

SBI Diphupar, Dima-

pur branch manager Jacky Chetri and chief manager credit, SBI Regional Business Office, Dimapur Branch Peter Khrasi, who were the special guest for the occasion emphasised

on PM social security schemes.

They also spoke on digital banking, online internet banking for financial transaction which can be easily obtained from Android phones.

Community members were also encouraged towards entrepreneurship for which the bank would be available to help sincere candidates.

While welcoming the guests, executive director-AIDA, Rev. Fr. Roy George SDB, thanked SBI Foundation for choosing the five villages presented

by AIDA to implement this programme.

He also thanked village authorities and concerned leaders for providing space to set up GSK of-

news in Brief CMO Dmu informs: Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dimapur, Dr Mereninla Senlem has informed that medical board for service confirmation, invalidation and commutation of pension for Grade-III and Grade-IV staff under Dimapur district will be held on March 3, June 2, September 1 and December 2 for the year 2021, 10 a.m. at CMO office.

Lost and Found: GPRN/NSCN (UT) has recovered two wheeler (black Pulsar 220- AS-01BJ-3592), chassis number MD2A13EZ9DCJOO624 and engine number DKZC96108. Rightful owner of the vehicle along with all original documents may contact at 8787683544/7005369577 for claimant and authentication at its office at CHQ, Khehoi Camp office within seven days from issue of this notification.

KPU convenes meeting: Kandi Public Union (KPU) has convened a meeting on February 27, 2021, 11 a.m. at GHS Kandinu. All Kandi citizens have been requested to attend the meeting.

CYF coordination meetings: Chakhesang Youth

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT LATE HENGWALE THONG

Front (CYF) has informed all presidents of villages/ towns youth organisations affiliated to CYF that CYF would be conducting area touring-cum-coordination meeting from March 2-5, 2021. Scheduled dates are as follows: Phek Area & Tizu Area at Phek Town Council Hall on March 2, 12 p.m.; Chozuba Area & Sekrezu Area at Vamuzo Memorial Hall on march 3, 10 a.m.; Chokri Area at Chetheba Town Hall on March 3, 1 p.m. and Khezha-Kuzha Tephe Area, Secheku Area, Kikruma Village & North Kikruma Village at Mini Tourist Lodge Pfutsero on march 4, 11 a.m. All affiliated villages/towns/units have been requested to attend the meeting by deputing at least four representatives.

RNPC informs: Rengma Naga Peoples’ Council (RNPC) has informed all concerned members and organisations in Assam and Nagaland that “Ahom Rengma Friendship Day” would be celebrated on February 25 at Rengma Gaon, Borlengri, Karbi Anglong, Assam. Info & media secretary, RNPC, Aga Rengma has requested invitees from both states to contact office of RNPC for any assistance.

W/o LATE RIGA THONG, EX-MINISTER

Two houses gutted in Dimapur, Jalukie

(L-R) The remains of the house destroyed by fire. (NP) Fire personnel seen dousing the fire at Samziuram ‘B’ Block Jalukie.

Staff Reporter DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): Two houses were reportedly gutted in separate fire incidents in Dimpaur and Jalukie on Tuesday. No casualty was reported in the incidents.

In the first incident, a house was gutted in an inferno that broke out near evening bazaar, Signal Bosti, Dimapur.

When contacted, ASI, K Y M C

K Hito Zhimo told Nagaland Post that the cause of the fire was yet to be ascertained. Fire officials informed that no casualty was reported, but properties estimated around Rs. 10 lakh including furniture and other machineries were destroyed. On receiving fire call at around 2:05 p.m., the department personnel swung into action and stopped the fire from spreading to nearby

houses. Altogether, four fire engines were pressed into service.

In another incident, a “katcha” house was razed down in an inferno which broke out at Samziuram ‘B’ Block Jalukie.

No casualty was reported, however property worth Rs. 1.50 lakh (approximately) was destroyed. According to RO (E) (F&ES), on receiving the fire call, the team from

Fire Station Jalukie with fire tenders and equipment were pressed into action.

As a result of the timely information and response, the fire was controlled and prevented from spreading to the surrounding houses.

Cause of fire was suspected to be from electrical short circuit. The response team was led by Duty Commander F/M Seikhojang Kuki.

1936 : 15.02.2021 We convey our heartfelt gratitude to all who stood by us, physically, spiritually and materially, during the difficult time/ long illness and demise of our beloved mother LATE HENGWALE THONG on 15th February, 2021 at Dimapur. Special mention may be made of the following though it is not possible to name all : 12. Sendenyu Chipwen Union and all other Organizations/ Churches: Unions (Sendenyu Village) 1. The Pentecostal Mission Churches (Dimapur Centre, 13. Tsoginzun Fellowship, Dimapur Kohima Centre & Shillong Centre) 14. Kacharigaon Village Council and members of the 2. Rengma Baptist Churches (Sendenyu, Thonsu, Village Dimapur, Kohima, Kashanyu & Kacharigaon 15. Servants of God & Believers of Pentecostal Churches Fellowship) 16. Nagaland School Education Administrative Officers’ Hospitals: Association Doctors & Nurses of: 17. Sendenyu Nyulünyu, Kohima 3. Naga Hospital, Kohima 18. SDEO Office, Tseminyu 4. Referral Hospital, Dimapur 19. Rengma Seb Clan 5. Eden Medical Centre, Dimapur.

Departments and Individuals: NGOs: 20. Y. Patton, Hon’ble Dy. Chief Minister 6. IAS Officers’ Association, Nagaland 21. R. Khing, Hon’ble Advisor 7. Officers & staff of ATI, Nagaland, Kohima 22. Nillo Rengma, Hon’ble Ex-Minister 8. Rengma Hoho (various constituents) 23. Martin Pienyu, IPS, IG (INT) 9. Rengma Selo Zi 24. Pollem Tep, President, Rengma Hoho 10. Rengma Mothers’ Association 25. Administrative Training Institute, 11. Rengma Students’ Union (various units) Nagaland, Kohima We regret our inability to mention each and every person/organization individually but it is our earnest prayer that Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

DP-1018

Sons / daughters in law, daughter / son-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers, sisters, in laws and families K Y M C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Has the state budget neglected the economically poor sections of society?

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

A B C

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

A

B

C

93% 7% 0%

Next poll

Q: Ca n Na g a p o l i t i c a l

groups come together for one peaceful solution?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST February 24

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Sunny and very warm

32 15

Aizawl

Mostly sunny

Guwahati Plenty of sunshine Imphal

Mostly sunny and pleasant

Itanagar Mostly sunny

27 10 31 14 27 8 27 14

Shillong

Sunshine and pleasant

22 8

Kohima

Sunny and delightful

23 9

Dimapur Plenty of sunshine Mkg

Mostly sunny and pleasant

Tuensang Mostly sunny and cool Wokha

CIH hosts course on post harvest Meeting on Kohima-Jessami 2 lane management of horticultural crops

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

Sunny and pleasant

Zunheboto Mostly sunny

30 14 24 11 16 7 23 14 20 9

3

State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

Neiba Kronu addressing public coordination meeting on Kohima-Jessami two lane project on February 23 at Pfutsero.

DIMAPUR: Phek district administration conducted a meeting with regards to the Kohima-Jessami two lane road project at Pfutsero on Tuesday.

The meeting was attended by minister of Planning and Co-ordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs Neiba Kronu, Kezhienyi Khalo MLA, district administration, NHIDCL, contractors, Chakhesang Public Organisation, Chakhesang Mother’s Association, Chizami range public organisation, village councils and public leaders of the district.

Deputy commission-

er, Phek, Razouvolie Dozo addressed the meeting and acknowledged the government, Neiba Kronu and NHIDCL for bringing the mega two lane project in the district.

He also requested village leaders and concerned citizens to co-operate with the district administration, NHIDCL contractors for smooth functioning of the mega development activities.

Kronu in his speech requested all stakeholders to give full cooperation for the successful implementation of the project.

He said that Phek district was the most fortunate

Women leadership training programme held in Dimapur

district with many road projects underway and more to come.

He said the villages through which the present two lane project (KohimaJessami) crosses should not be considered as “affected villages” but rather considered as ‘benefitted villages” because with the completion of the project, the public could explore more opportunities.

He also requested land compensation beneficiaries to utilise their compensation money in a positive way by way of investing for their future.

He also highlighted that some other road

projects were coming up soon.

The minister acknowledged the NHIDL for taking up several projects in Nagaland and also requested them to respect the authorities of the villages while dealing with village leaders.

The minister also highlighted that the present Kohima-Jessami two lane project was a fast progressing project in the state.

Meanwhile, Kezhienyi Khalo shared his concerns on matters related to two-lane project and requested both the public and NHIDL to coordinate better.

N H I D C L ge n e r a l manager, SP Phek, SDO (C) Pfutsero, contractors of different packages, Chakhesang Public Organization, Chakhesang Mother’s Association, Chizami range public organization, village councils and public leaders also spoke at the meeting.

District administration informed that re-survey of the affected land and proper ties would commence from March 3, 2021 and compensated beneficiaries have also been requested to demolish their properties before March 15, 2021.

Participants and CIH officials at the certificate course.

DIMAPUR: Three months certificate course on “post harvest management of horticultural crops” commenced on February 19, at Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH), Medziphema.

A press release by CIH stated that the course was inaugurated at the institute with a brief introductory session by course coordinator & post harvest technologist, Vinika K Aomi.

Delivering welcome note, additional commissioner –Hort, DAC&FW and director in-charge

CIH, Dr. N K Patle encouraged the students to make the best use of their stay at CIH. He also assured the trainees of all technical help and support in the future if they worked hard.

It may be noted that the objective of the course is to skill rural unemployed youth on post harvest management, food processing and value addition of horticulture crops which will enable them to be fully equipped to run and manage pack houses, cold storage and food processing unit.

The trainees from Tuensang, Dimapur, Mokokchung, Wokha, Kohima, Mon, Noklak and Dimapur will be given hands-on practical demonstrations on value addition of different horticultural crops grown in the region.

Technical advisory committee of CIH led by chairman of TAC, Dr. SD Upadhyaya also graced the inaugural as special guests. Vote of thanks was proposed by STA Mhasizotuo. A total of 21 trainees enrolled for the certificate course.

Wooden bridge over Dikhu River inaugurated

Correspondent

L O N G L E N G, F E B 2 3 (NPN): A 40-meter long temporary wooden bridge in Shillai over Dikhu river between Pongching, Mongtikang Longleng-Salulamang, Chuchuyimlang Mokokchung was inaugurated by DC Longleng, M. Shayung Phom.

Speaking at the programme as special guest, DC lauded the Temporary Wooden Bridge Construction Joint Committee (TWBCJC) for initiating and completing the bridge.

Encouraging the leaders Participants at the training programme. and public from Longleng DIMAPUR: Peace Channel organised justice”, the coordinator shred that and Mokokchung districts, its two-day 4th training programme the mission of Peace Channel was to DC stated that developing under the theme “peace mission” in reach out to the people in every nook and catering to all round colonies such as Padampukhri and and cranny to promote peace.

Sachu Colony.

General secretary, Nagamese A press release by peace channel Baptist Church Association, Mhabeni media team stated that the training Ngullie also called for spreading the DIMAPUR: A monolith to focussed on engaging women in discus- message of peace and assured support commemorate the friendship sions pertaining to the importance of to Peace Channel in their endeavours between Tholo clan, Jotsoma peace and well-being of the society. in the future. and Merhü clan, Khonoma It was also aimed at initiating their Meanwhile, women team leader, was inaugurated by MLA, 8th advocacy in various activities to foster Rita Gosh expressed her satisfaction Western Angami Assembly healthy approach while communicating of the initiative of Peace Channel and Constituency, Keneizhakho with mutual understanding. shared that neighbours have developed Nakhro at TholomaTsiepfhe, Over 18 selected women from closeness and cordial relationships Jotsoma on February 23, Sachu colony and over 20 women in Pa- within the society.

2021. dampukhri attended the training under The programme initiated women According to DIPR rethe leadership coordinator, district unit, in their respected localities to seek port, the Tholo clan in JotsoPeace Channel, Caroline Leisan. insight and to promote a peaceful ma village consists of Nakhro, Sharing the vision, “make a world resolve on challenges existing in their Nagi and Peseyie and Merhü where there is love and peace and society. clan of Khonoma village con-

achievement, cooperation and understanding among the people of all sections must exist.

DC said that the people of Pongching and Mongtikang had shown their dedication and hard work which was a commendable success story that would go a long way. He congratulated the people of the two villages for their tireless efforts to keep the districts connected through crowd funding.

While delivering brief report on the construction, convener, TWBCJC and general secretary NPF Central Youth Wing, Kongba Chungphang said that the idea to construct the temporary wooden bridge started in 2020 by setting up of committee to oversee the

M. Shayung Phom inaugurating the bridge. (NP)

works. He said that since there was no source to start the construct, the committee came up with an idea of crowd funding within the community members and well wishers. He also informed that altogether,

14 lakhs were collected through crowd funding and overall total cost for the construction was 12 lakhs.

The convener on behalf of the construction committee expressed grati-

tude to all and thanked the general public of Pongching, Mongtikang, Salulamang and Chuchuyimlang villages who contributed through labour and other materials towards the construction.

It may be noted that about eight years ago, a foundation stone for constructing a 40m RCC Bridge over Dikhu River was laid on December 8, 2012, by the then PWD minister (Roads and Bridges) G Kaito Aye, however the construction of bridge did not materialise.

The public of the affected district had to construct an alternative bridge by way of crowd funding.

Monolith on Khonoma, Jotsoma friendship erected

NSWON, WTR mourns demise of member DIMAPUR: National Socialist Women’s Organisation of Nagalim (NSWON) has expressed grief over the untimely demise of Kuzile Hungyo, Wung Tangkhul region who passed away on February 19. She enrolled in the Naga National service (NSWON) on August 10, 2009.

A condolence note

by NSWON through its chairperson, W-TKL region, NSWON, Thotdharla Shishak stated that Naga nation had lost a God fearing mother and a nationalist who upheld the national principle and was steadfast for Naga national cause.

NSWON also stated that it would cherish the invaluable sacrifice rendered by her in time of hardship and trials of the nation.

Further, it conveyed condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed that her soul rest in peace.

K Y M C

sists of Lievüse, Gwizan and Meyase. MLA, Keneizhakho said that in the annals of history between the two clans, there was hostility but as situation changed, friendly relations developed between the two. He added that there was need for more co-operation and stronger bond for progress and prosperity. Sievi Iralu, an elder from Merhü clan shared about the history between the two clans and called for the younger generation to build

and strengthen the relationship further.

Meanwhile, speaking during the commemoration function, Rügolie Nakhro said that the friendship between the two clans showed peace and reconciliation were possible even with a hostile past, while Megorzo Chase expressed hope that the friendship monolith would further cement and foster stronger ties between the two and in generations to come.

Under the aegis of Samyan Baptist Church Wokha, Vungoju Colony and Molonsu Colony, Wokha held a mass social work in cremation grounds on February 23. (Shitio Bonathung, Vungoju Colony)

KVK, Kiphire organises training and valedictory programme

EAC, Kiphire, Imlijungla Lemtur speaking during the valedictory programme.

DIMAPUR: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kiphire organised training on improved agricultural practices for livelihood generation and valedictory programme.

A press release by KVK Kiphire stated that the training was organised in collaboration with district administration, MSK and DRDA, Kiphire on February 12, at Hopongyu memorial hall, Kiphire.

Re s o u r c e p e r s o n s

of the programme were AC, NSRLM Kiphire, Sepila Sangtam, agriculture inspector, DAO, Kiphire Thungjano Tsopoe, and DHO Kiphire, Senti Longchar.

Speaking on the topic “value addition on fruits and vegetables”, Sepila Sangtam informed that processed products such as wine, candy and jam can be made out of fruits and vegetables at home scale which would help in

generating income.

Importance and usage of vermicomposting was highlighted by Thungjano Tsopoe where she deliberated on various steps and methods involved in theproduction of vermicompost.

Topic on Naga King chilly cultivation was delivered by Senti Longchar, where detailed cultivation methods from nursery management to management in the main field were

discussed.

Meanwhile, a short valedictory programme was held after the technical session with EAC, Kiphire, Imlijungla Lemtur as special guest was held.

She encouraged the farmers to be committed to whatever activities they undertook. She also spoke on women empowerment besides highlighting activities of MSK, which she said was solely for working women for security livelihood.

A brief report was presented by senior scientist and head (i/c) and training co-ordinator, Dr. N Khumdemo Ezung where he informed that a total of 120 SHGs were covered benefitting 600 farm women through the programme.

He added that a total of 120 knapsack sprayer, 600 packet of yellow sticky trap, 600 number of maize sheller, 600 numbers of garden rake and 600 numbers of biopesticide were distributed to all

the participating farmers from five different blocks of Kiphire such as Kiphire, Longmatra, Pungro, Sitimi and Khonsa where four training programmes were conducted in each block.

He expressed gratitude to the District Administration for sponsoring the program, NSRLM team, Kiphire for the strong coordination with the SHG’s, NSRLM, DHO and DAO,

Kiphire for deputing the resource persons making the program a grand success.

During the programme, inputs such as garden rake, maize sheller, yellow sticky trap, biopesticide and knapsack sprayer were distributed to all the participating farmers.

Altogether 60 farm women from 12 SHGs participated in the training programme.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by SMS DAMU, KVK Kiphire, Temjenna Jamir and vote of thanks was delivered

by HEA, DHO Kiphire, Seroba Sangtam.

K Y M C

4

northeast

1040 militants surrender in Assam

Members of five militant outfits of Karbi Anglong during the arms laying ceremony, in Guwahati, Tuesday. (PTI)

Guwahati, Feb 23 (PTI): Dreaded militant Ingti Kathar Songbijit and 1,039 others belonging to five outfits on Tuesday laid down arms before Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to return to the mainstream.

The militants belong

to People’s Democratic Council of Karbi Longri (PDCK), Karbi Longri NC Hills Liberation Front (KLNLF), Karbi People’s Liberation Tiger (KPLT), Kuki Liberation Front (KLF) and United Peoples Liberation Army (UPLA).

Demand for creation of Karbi statehood gains momentum Correspondent Diphu Feb 23: A joint press conference attended by representatives of several students and civil societies held at the office of ‘Karbi Anglong North Cachar Autonomous State Demand Committee’ Monday pressed for creation of an autonomous state encompassing the three autonomous hill districts of Assam.

The demand for statehood comes close on the heels of the proposed visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Den goan of Karbi Anglong district on February 25. One of the members, Sing Timung, while addressing media said: “We heartily welcome the visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah Ji at Den goan of Karbi Anglong on February 25. We like to appeal to him to declare an

autonomous state comprising Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao autonomous districts under the readymade provision of Article 244 (A) of Indian constitution.”

Karbi Students’ Association, Dimasa Students Union, Karbi Adorbar, Karbi Riso Adorbar, Karbi Soarlo Amei and Karbi Unemployed Youth Association, while welcoming the visit of Amit Shah, urged the latter to declare Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao districts as ‘Autonomous State’.

Leaders of KANCA State Demand Committee’, president of Karbi Riso Adorbar, Bimang Kro and others said that some Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao outfits under all probability will lay down arms on the basis of a written accord signed between the ultra organizations and Centre.

Songbijit is the chief of PDCK. He was earlier the commander-in-chief of the banned National Democratic Front of Boroland.

He was involved in several incidents of massacres, mostly of the people from minority com-

Bangladesh High Commissioner meets Assam Gov Guwahati, Feb 23 (PTI): High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India Muhammad Imran on Tuesday met Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi and discussed a range of issues of bilateral interests.

Mukhi emphasised that taking into consideration the friendly relations between India and Bangladesh, the volume of trade through land route should attain the maximum potential, an official release said.

He also said that the commodities that are presently allowed for exports are restricted to a specific list – the positive list.

The Governor suggested that there should also be a negative list highlighting the items not to be exported so that the rest all other items can be exported.

munities, in the erstwhile Bodoland Territorial Area Districts. Songbijit was sidelined after the Ranjan Daimary faction of NDFB suspended operations. He later formed the PDCK in Karbi Anglong district.

Welcoming the 1,040 surrenderers from Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts into the mainstream, Sonowal said his government is working to make Assam a terrorfree state.

“We are giving all possible support to the youths coming back to the society.

We are giving financial help as well as logistic support. We will continue to do that,” he added.

The militants deposited 338 arms, including 58 AK series rifles, 11 M-16 guns and four LMGs, the Additional Director General of Police (Special Branch) Hiren Chandra Nath said.

A formal peace agreement will be signed by the government with the insurgent grous within the next two days, he said.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

BJP nominee from Assam elected to RS unopposed GUWAHATI, FEB 23 (IANS): The Bharatiya Janata Party gained a member in the Rajya Sabha from Assam with its nominee Biswajit Daimary on Monday getting elected unopposed to the Upper House of Parliament, officials said.

The election officials said since Monday was the last day of withdrawal of candidature and as no other candidate filed nominations, Daimary was declared winner of the by-election to one Rajya Sabha seat from Assam.

The seat to the Upper House of Parliament remained vacant after Daimary quit his party --BPF -- and resigned from Rajya Sabha in November last year before joining the BJP. The 49-year-old tribal leader was one of the founder leaders of the BPF, an ally of the ruling BJP in Assam since 2016.

The BJP, after the Bodoland Territorial Council polls in early December last year had forged an alliance with new ally UPPL after discarding incumbent partner BPF.

BJP MP says Greater Tipraland demand raised ahead of TTAADC polls farce

AGARTALA, FEB 23 (PTI): A senior Tripura BJP leader and MP on Tuesday described as a “farce” the demand for Greater Tipraland, a separate state for the indigenous people of the state, raised by two parties ahead of the election in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC).

The Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), an ally of the ruling BJP, and the newly floated Tripura Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance (TIPRA) have decided to contest the TTAADC polls together and demanded Greater Tipraland.

“The demand for Greater Tipraland is an attempt to mislead tribal people with fake promises in the name of unity among them. But it is a farce, an implausible thought,” said Rebati Tripura, the MP of East Tripura constituency.

A separate Tipraland state, carving out the area under the jurisdiction of TTAADC which covers

two-thirds of the state’s land, is an old demand of the IPFT to protect and safeguard the socio-economic and political interests of the indigenous people.

The proposed Greater Tipraland includes, besides TTAADC area, parts of Assam and Mizoram and two districts of Bangladesh where the indigenous people of Tripura live. The tribal people are a strong political force in Tripura as they form one third of the state’s total estimated 40 lakh population.

The election to TTADC was due on May 17, 2020, but it was postponed due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The High Court of Tripura has directed the State Election Commission to conduct the polls within May 17 this year. “Attempts are being made to disturb the communal harmony in the state,” the BJP MP claimed.

He asked when there is no Tipraland, how can one think of Greater Tipraland which includes areas outside India? IPFT president

and Revenue Minister N C Debbarma and TIPRA chairman Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma said on February 19 that the alliance was forged not only to fight the TTAADC election but also for the development of Tripura’s indigenous community.

The IPFT has joined hands with the TIPRA, saying that there are instances that a party which has an alliance with a national party has one with a regional party or group as well. IPFT general secretary and Tribal Welfare Minister Mevar Kumar Jamatia also recently expressed his displeasure over the performance of the BJP-IPFT government.

On this, the BJP leader said, “Jamatia is the tribal welfare minister and after three years it is not expected from him. He should have worked for the development of the indigenous people.”

The BJP-IPFT coalition came to power in the state in 2018 ousting the CPI(M)-led Left Front government.

Himanta Biswa launches slew of developmental projects in Bokajan Announces peace accord with five ethnic militant groups in Karbi Anglong B o k a ja n, F e b 2 3 (AGENCIES): Ahead the State Assembly Election, 2021, BJP strongman and state cabinet minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday, arrived in Bokajan to perform “Bhumi Pujan” ceremony for construction of a 100-Bedded rural hospital and inauguration of several other developmental projects followed by a public rally at CCI playground in Bokajan.

The minister also attended the inaugural ceremony of “Pranabananda Centenary Building” in Pranab Vidyapith School in Bokajan to commemorate the 125 birth anniversary of Srimat Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj - the founder of Bharat Sevashram Sangh.

Later, the minister inaugurated an Inspection

Bungalow (IB) in Nizorapar, Bokajan followed by the inauguration of a mini stadium, auditorium and indoor stadium constructed under Finance Minister Special Package at an estimated cost of Rs 10 crore at CCI palyground in Bokajan.

Addressing the gathering, the minister said, “Today is a very significant day for the people of Bokajan.

This 100-bedded hospital has been my long pending wish for the people of Bokajan.

All modern facilities including operation theatre, kidney dialysis, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and others shall be available in this hospital.

In the last five years, Karbi Anglong has witnessed a major upliftment in terms of education and health care facilities. The Diphu Medical College was once a dream and today it has

Himanta Biswa Sarma at Pranab Vidyapith School in Bokajan.

started functioning with 100 medical students and 500 beds to cater the medical needs of the people living in Karbi Anglong.”

Also speaking on the old Diphu Civil Hospital ,

Himanta said, “Earlier, it was my wish to establish a Cancer hospital in Karbi Anglong and today works are on to resurrect the old Diphu Civil Hospital as a full- fledged cancer hospital

by August 15, 2021. And with all facilities of radiation, surgery and medication, Karbi Anglong’s journey towards better health care facilities shall receive a new beginning.”

The minister further added, “Peace and development in Karbi Anglong has remained a priority of the BJP government and we are committed to bring peace and communal harmony in Karbi Anglong. Today, I feel proud that all ethnic militant groups of Karbi Anglong have laid down arms in Guwahati and have returned to the mainstream.

Furthermore, on the 25th of February, Union Home Minister Amit Shah shall arrive at Dengaon in Karbi Anglong and sign a new Peace Accord with the militants for the development of Karbi Anglong.

New alpine species discovered in Arunachal Illegal limestone mining in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills

ITANAGAR, FEB 23 (PTI): A new species of alpine plant in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district has been discovered by a group of scientists of three institutes of the country, according to a journal that published their research paper.

The new species belongs to the family of Himalayan sunflower, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology research fellow Dr Lobsang Tashi Thungon, who is a member of the

team, said.

The discovery of the species was published in the international peer-reviewed publication ‘Biodiversitas: Journal of Biological Diversity’, he said.

“It is named as ‘Cremanthodium indicum’ and the plant species, which generally flowers from July to August, is endemic to Penga-Teng Tso Lake of Tawang district, where it was discovered,” he said.

Two other scientists of the team are Dipankar Borah, an associate profes-

sor of Botany at Goalpara College in Assam and Dr Rajeev Kumar Singh, a scientist at Botanical Survey of India (BSI).

“The alpine plant species is assessed as critically endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines,” Thungon said.

Tawang district holds one of the assemblages of flowering plants in the northeastern state, which attracts botanists across the world.

Correspondent

Shillong, Feb 23: There are reports that illegal limestone mining is rampant in Meghalaya’s Nongtalang and Amlari village under Amlarem Subdivision, West Jaintia Hills District, carried out by flouting all rules of MMMCR 2016 and MMDR Act 1957.

The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Jaintia Hills Territorial Division, Jowai had issued notice to all the mining lease holders under

College teachers’ silent rally foiled by police in Mnp Correspondent IMPHAL, Feb 23: Agitating teachers of government colleges in Manipur were caught between the state government and students.

After a silent rally carried out by agitating teachers was cut short by police soon after it kick-started, students of colleges urged the teachers not to enter college campus if classes were not to be conducted.

The striking teachers on Tuesday converged at the campus of Maharaja Budhachandra College in Imphal’s Palace Compound to carry out a silent protest rally on the streets of Imphal. When the rally kickstarted, a strong police team armed with riot gear stopped them from carrying out the rally and forced them to return to the originating point.

The police also prevented them from continuing a sit-in-protest in front of the college.

Silent rally of government college teachers which was foiled by police soon after it kicked started in Imphal on Tuesday.

The students also condemned their victimization because of the ongoing conflict between the teachers and the state government.

Government college teachers have been agitating under the aegis of Federation of Government College Teachers’ Association (FEGOCTA) demanding implementation of the 7th Pay and Regulations, 2018 which the state government had already agreed.

The agitating teachers today announced continuation of the cease work strike

until the orders implementing the UCG policy are issued. Talking to reporters, FEGOCTA general secretary Dr N Somorendro said ,“We will not retreat from the strike until the state government issues necessary orders implementing the national UGC policy.”

He said that today’s silent rally was organised to register a strong protest against the state government’s failure to issue orders of 7th UGC and Regulations, 2018. He once again appealed to the state chief

minister to consider the demand of the teachers without any delay so that normal academic atmosphere is restored in government colleges.

Meanwhile, the agitating FEGOCTA, in a statement, expressed strong condemnation to the police violence on protesting students on Monday.

It stated that the college teachers were on democratic protests against the nonimplementation of UGC policy of 7th Pay and Regulations, 2018 and appealed to all to restrain from any kind of violence.

“FEGOCTA’s agitation is not against the students,” it added.

The apex body of government college teachers asserted that if the government was committed in implementing UGC policy and fulfilled the three written assurances to FEGOCTA in 2019, the unfortunate crisis would have been avoided.

Nongtalang and Satpator (Amlari) Elaka on illegal limestone mining.

In the notice, the DFO stated, “I would bring to your notice that this office is issuing Form – H (under Rule.

26 of MMMCR 2016) to the mining lease holder for transportation of lime stone extracted, only at their respective mining lease area approved by this office.

However, it has been brought to the notice of the undersigned that some min-

ing lease holders are misusing challans by transferring it to entities indulging in illegal mining of limestone

AFFIDDAVIT I, Mr. Laini Konyak, S/o Mr. Khunbao Konyak & Mrs. Phihyun Konyak, resident of H.No. 305, Lake View, Joraphukuri, Purana Bazar, Dimapur, Nagaland declare through an Affidavit No. 6226/2021 dated 19.02.2021 that my name, my parents name and my date of birth wrongly entered as "Liani, son of Mr. Khumbao Khyamogan & Mrs. Yashila Khyamogan" and Date of birth as 13.04.1999 while me and my parents correct name is "LIANI KONYAK, son of MR. KHUNBAO KONYAK & MRS. PHIHYUN KONYAK and Date of birth 20.05.1999.

DP-1058

DECLARATION

Regd. No. 79/2019 Date 27/11/2019 I, MISS KEKUSENUO RHETSO, daughter of Metevil Rhetso, aged about 35 years, and resident of H.No.137, Middle Midland, Kohima Town, Kohima District, Nagaland, do, hereby, solemnly affirm and declare as under: 1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India and a permanent resident of the above mentioned address.

2. That my correct and official name is KEKUSENUO RHETSO, which has been entered in my AADHAAR card bearing No.8151 5734 3097 and PAN Card bearing No.AKTPR0423M. 3. That my name has been entered as KEKUOSENUO RHETSO in my Matriculation Admit Card and Marksheet as well as my Bachelor of Arts (B.A) Degree Admit Card and Marksheet, including other official documents.

4. That for the purpose of evidencing such determination and for all intent and purpose, I declare that all acts done by me using the name of KEKUOSENUO RHETSO refer to one and the same name and person. i.e., KEKUSENUO RHETSO. 5. That this affidavit shall be used for making any necessary correction and verification.

I do, hereby, verify that the contents of this affidavit from paragraph 1 to 5 are true and correct, and nothing false has been stated or concealed therein.

DEPONENT K-444

Regd. No. 413/2020

outside the leased area and helping them transport illegally mined limestone through such transfers”.

AFFIDAVIT

Date 28/08/2020

I, Shri. ECHUNGTHUNG MARK JUNGIO, son of Shri. Thungkomo Jungio, permanent resident of PWD Colony, Wokha, Nagaland, and presently residing at House No. 150, Walford Colony, Dimapur, Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as follows: 1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India and resident of the above mentioned address.

2. That my Father's name has been inadvertently entered as MITHRAN P. VENGILAT in, my NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling) Secondary Course Marksheet bearing Enrollment Number - M08026182028, who is actually my Guardian.

3. That my Father's real name is THUNGKOMO JUNGIO, which I use in all my educational documents and henceforth my Father's name is to used as THUNGKOMO JUNGIO only.

4. That I do hereby verify that the above mentioned statements are true to the best of my knowledge and nothing is false.

DEPONENT Sworn before me on this 28th day of August 2020.

NOTARY PUBLIC DP-1054

IN THE COURT OF THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER DIMAPUR : NAGALAND NOTICE

Dt. Dimapur the 23 Feb’ 2021 No.Rev-1/90-D/12439 /Notice is hereby given that Smti. Mengunuo Yaden resident of Nepali Basti who has applied for issue of mortgage clearance concerning to Patta No. 275, Dag No. 56 measuring an area 01-0-11 located at Block No. 4, Mouza No. 2 which has been mortgage in the NEDFI Bank/Society.

Claim/Objection concerning to the said land if any & should there be any, should submit to this court on or before 7 (seven) days from the date of publication in local newspaper.

Sd/Deputy Commissioner Dimapur, Nagaland DCRegd. No. 86/2021

AFFIDAVIT

Date 19/01/2021

I, Shri. Lunjagin Singson, S/o Shri. Khupkholun Singson, R/o. H.No. 920, Kuda Village "B" Khel, Lane-10, "D", Full Nagarjan, Dimapur-797112, Nagaland, do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under : 1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India and resident of above mentioned address.

2. That I have changed my name from Md. Manan Ali to Lunjagin Singson.

3. That Md. Manan Ali to Lungjagin Singson are the one and the same person.

4. That this affidavit is made to declare, I have changed my name from Md. Manan Ali to Lunjagin Singson and henceforth I shall be known as Lunjagin Singson for all purposes.

5. That statements made above are true to the best of my knowledge and belief nothing material concealed therein.

DEPONENT Sworn before me on this 19th day of January 2021.

NOTARY PUBLIC DP-1047

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

India’s health sector overcame trial by fire: PM

NEW DELHI, FEB 23 (PTI): The prestige of India’s health sector and trust in it has increased manifold across the globe after it successfully overcame the trial by fire during the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday and asserted that time has come to take accessibility and affordability in healthcare to the next level.

Addressing a webinar on effective implementation of the Union Budget’s provisions in the health sector, he said the budget allocated to health this year is unprecedented and shows the government’s commitment to provide better healthcare.

Modi said his government is taking a holistic approach to healthcare and is not just focused on treatment but also wellness.

To keep India healthy, the government is working on four fronts simultaneously -- prevention of illness

Narendra Modi

and promotion of wellness, providing cheap and effective treatment to the poorest of the poor, increasing quality and quantity of health infrastructure and healthcare professionals, and working on mission mode to overcome obstacles, Modi said.

The prime minister said it is time to take accessibility and affordability in healthcare to the next level for which use of modern technology is being increased, he said.

“Last year was in a way like ‘agnipareeksha’ (trial by fire) for the country and particularly for the health

sector. I am happy that the country’s health sector was successful in this ‘agnipareeksha’. We managed to save so many lives,” he said while crediting theachievement to combined efforts of the government and private sector.

The prime minister recalled how, within a few months, the country could set up a network of 2,500 labs and how it could reach a milestone of 21 crore tests from a mere dozen tests.

Modi said the pandemic has taught a lesson which is not just to fight the virus but prepare the country for any such future situation.

“From medical equipment to medicines, from ventilators to vaccines, from scientific research to surveillance infrastructure, from doctors to epidemiologists, we have to pay attention to all so that the country is better prepared for any health disaster in future,” he said.

Stat govt effects bureaucratic rejig (From p-1) ADC Dimapur on promotion has been transferred as jt secy Food & Civil Supplies.

Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa, NCS, ADC Kohima has been promoted as jt secy DUDA; Renabomo Odyuo NCS, ADC, Naginimora has been promoted as jt secy IPR. Vikhweno Chale, NCS dy. secy Horticulture has been promoted as jt secy Horticulture; Kusa Fithu NCS dy. secy co-operation has been promoted as jt. secy. Co-operation; Thsuvisie Phoji, NCS ADC Medziphema has been promoted as jt. secy. Law & Justice; Imtitemsu NSS, jt. secy. Justice & Law has been transferred as jt secy Art & Culture.

T. Lankonsen Tsanglao, NCS ADC, Shamator has been transferred as ADC Wokha; K. Mhathung Tsanglao NCS ADC, Wokha transferred as ADC Shamator; Wennyei Konyak, NCS, PD, DRDA Mon transferred as DRC Nagaland House, New Delhi; H. Atokhe Aye NCS, PD DRDA Dimapur transferred as ADC Dimapur; Keyirangding Hegui, NCS, PD, DRDA Phek transferred as ADC Tobu.

Tsuktimar Jamir NCS ADC Phek transferred as dy secy Home; Phuleshe K. Yepthomi NCS ADC Pfutsero transferred as ADC Phek; Japheth Woch, NCS, ADC Seyochung transferred as ADC Pfutsero; Temjensangla NCS dy. secy, Lab & Emp transferred as ADC Kiphire; Nyempo Wallim, NCS ADC Kiphire transferred as dy. secy. Lab & Emp; Imsongmeren NCS, ADC Tuli transferred as ADC Medziphema; Hito Sema, NCS, ADC Zunheboto transferred as dy. secy.

Home; Warren Holohon Yepthomi, NCS, dy. secy, H&TE transferred dy. secy., Agriculture; Avelu Ruho, NCS, dy. decy. MAD & jt.

CEO KSCD Ltd transferred as dy. secy School Education; Zapuno Sophie, NCS, asst. commr, Commissioner’s Office promoted as dy. secy Ind & Commerce.

Kikumsangla, NCS, ADC Longkhim transferred as dy. secy, Water Resources; Chubatemjen, NCS, ADC, Meluri transferred as ADC, Longkhim; K. Furhesie Nyuwi, NCS, BM, Tsurangkong with additional charge of Merangmen promoted as ADC Meluri; Renbemo Ezung, NCS, SDO(C), Zunheboto promoted as ADC, Zunheboto; Moakumzuk Tzudir, NCS, SDO(C), Changtongya promoted as ADC Seyochung.

Amentoli Anar, NCS, under secy. G&M promoted as dy. secy. G&M; Imokokla, NCS, under secy. Tourism promoted as dy. secy.

Tourism.

Shaying Sheu, NCS SDO(C) Kohima, promoted as ADC Tuli; N. Bhavani

Sri, IAS, SDO(C) Phek promoted as ADC Kohima; Dharam Raj IAS, SDO(C), Mokokchung promoted as ADC Mangkolemba.

Vineet Kumar, IAS, SDO(C), Mon promoted as ADC Naginimora; Rabeni Kikon, NSS, dy. secy, Eco & Stats transferred as dy secy.

Home; Kikato K. Chishi, NCS, SDO(C) Dimapur, transferred as under secy.

Tribal Affairs; Vekusheyi Rhakho, NCS, under secy., Tribal Affairs transferred as under secy. H&TE; T. Sulanthung, NCS, SDO(C) Bhandari to hold additional charge of BM Merapani; Hotolu Sema SDO(C) Noksen, transferred as SDO(C) Dimapur; T. Lemlila Sangtam, NCS, under secy. Evaluation, transferred as asst commr. Commissioner’s Office; Er. Namang Sepong Chang NCS, SDO(C), Phek transferred as under secy. chief secretary’s office; Samuel Thyug, NCS SDO(C), Chiephobozou transferred as SDO(C) Phek; Thejavizo Nakhro, NCS, EAC, Seithekiema on promotion transferred as SDO(C) Dimapur; Selemla S. Sangtam, NCS, EAC Baghty on promotion transferred as SDO(C) Wokha; Lithrila Sangtam, NCS, EAC, Aboi & Longching on promotion transferred as SDO(C) Mon; Athrong, NCS, EAC, Longchem on promotion transferred as SDO(C) Zunheboto; Veneikho Tetso NCS, EAC, Kezocha on promotion transferred as BM Tsurangkong, with additional charge of EAC Merangmen.

Yanthungbemo Kikon, NCS, EAC, Nihokhu on promotion transferred as SDO (C) Longleng; Hukashi Yepthomi, NCS, EAC Mokokchung promoted as SDO(C) Mokokchung; Tsiatsusie, NCS, EAC Atoizu promoted as SDO(C) Chessore and hold additional charge of EAC Mangko; Wanmei C. Phom NCS, EAC Namsang on promotion transferred as SDO (C) Wokha.

Rorheu Peseyie, NCS, EAC Phukungri, transferred as EAC, Changtongya and hold charge of SDO(C) Changtongya; Limakumla Pongener, NCS, EAC Akuluto transferred as EAC, Chuchuyimlang; Dziesengunuo Mere, NCS EAC Chiephohozou, transferred EAC Kohima; Kelengunuo Solo, NCS, EAC Razeba, transferred EAC Kezocha; Abeinuo Jasmine Ashao, NCS, EAC, Kohima, transferred EAC Aghunato; Vitoka Yepthomi, NCS, EAC Aghunato transferred as EAC Chiephobozou; Chenithung Ovung, NCS, EAC Shamator, transferred as EAC Aitepyong; Nukshimatong NCS, EAC Tamlu transferred as EAC Dimapur; Seyekhrietuo Solo NCS, EAC Aitepyong transferred as EAC Seitheikema; Arhomo Yanthan NCS

EAC Wokha transferred as EAC Shamator; Imliakum Sanglir NCS, EAC Phek transferred as EAC Zunheboto; Rohbi Sangtam NCS EAC Longleng transferred as EAC Baghty; Sukhalu Chishi NCS, EAC Peren transferred as EAC Atoizu; Luchui Fithu, NCS EAC Pughoboto transferred EAC Phukungri; Yitachu Thur, NCS, EAC Noklak transferred as EAC Phor; Dr. Riku Khutso NCS EAC Sanis transferred as EAC Pfutsero; Chubasanen Ozukum NCS EAC Mon transferred as EAC Aboi & Longching.

Imtinungla Longkunmer, NCS EAC Wokha transferred as EAC Mokokchung; Khriethozo NCS EAC Kiphire transferred as EAC Namsang; Kevethito Rose NCS, EAC Tuensang transferred as EAC Peren; Er. Mechietsho Koza, NCS, EAC Zunheboto transferred as EAC Phek; IhoiIung Chuilo NCS, EAC Longleng transferred as EAC Peren; Toking Yimchunger, NCS, EAC Chessore to hold additional charge of Mangko and transferred as EAC Tuensang; N. Orenthung Kikon, NCS, EAC Zunheboto transferred as EAC Longchem and Puhan Khiamniungan NCS, EAC Tuensang transferred as EAC Tamlu.

DC Kiphire transferred Following the ultimatum of United Sangtam Likhüm Pümji (USLP) and several civil society organizations under Kiphire district, seeking the removal of deputy commissioner (DC) Kiphire, the state government on Tuesday transferred Ajit Kumar Ranjan as the DC and posted T. Wati Aier as the new DC. Ranjan has been transferred as joint secretary Health & Family Welfare.

Centre using ED, CBI, I-T dept to pull down our govts: Cong

NEW DELHI, FEB 23 (IANS): The Congress lost its second government in a year after the Puducherry regime fell, following the collapse of the Madhya Pradesh government last year.

Both Congress governments fell because of resignation of MLAs which reduced the strength of the party.

The Cong ress has blamed the Union government for misusing agencies and pulling down its elected governments in states.

Puducherry Congress in-charge Dinesh Gundu Rao told IANS, “The actions of the BJP-ruled central government using agencies such as CBI, I-T department, ED, have threatened, blackmailed and coerced our MLAs.” The party alleged that crores of rupees were used in horse trading and to topple its government.

“They know that the government worked for the people, despite the obstacles, despite the non-co-

operation of the Centre.”

Gundu Rao said, “the elected government has been destabilised, because of the ‘Mafia politics’ of BJP, what they have done in different states in India, what they have done in Maharashtra, what they have done in Karnataka, in Rajasthan, in Madhya Pradesh, in northeastern states, what they are doing in West Bengal”.

He alleged that the BJP has no respect for democracy.

Puducher r y Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy had resigned on Monday after his Congress-led government collapsed just before facing the floor test in the Assembly.

“What is happening in Puducherry now is political prostitution. But the truth will prevail,” Narayanasamy had said.

He alleged that former Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi and the Centre colluded with the opposition to destabilise his government.

PDA delegation calls on..

(From p-1) He also highlighted the ongoing projects initiated by the housing department under State plan and negotiated Loan which requires about Rs.400 crore for completion.

The union finance minister assured the delegation that the central government would extend all the possible help for all round development for the state.

The delegation expressed gratitude to the union minister for the serious concern she had for the development of the state. The delegation also extended invitation to the union minister to visit the state during the annual Hornbill Festival.

U’khand flood: 136 missing people ‘presumed dead’ DEHRADUN, FEB 23 (PTI): The Uttarakhand government has issued a notification authorising officials to declare “presumed dead” 136 people still missing after the flash flood in Chamoli district over two weeks ago.

Sixty-eight bodies have so far been recovered after the February 7 disaster possibly triggered by an avalanche.

A devastating flash flood demolished a 13.2 MW hydel project along the river besides causing extensive damage to the NTPC’s Tapovan-Vishnugad hydel project along Dhauliganga.

About 35 people were feared trapped inside a tunnel in Tapovan. The debris and sludge has only been removed from a portion of the tunnel.

Uttarakhand Health Secretary Amit Singh Negi said on Tuesday that the presumption of death can be made by officials in the affected district only in case of missing people who in all likelihood have died in the disaster but their bodies have not been found.

Normally the missing are declared dead only when they are not traced for seven years after the incident responsible for their disappearance but in case of an extraordinary occurrence like the one witnessed in Uttarakhand special provisions can be made, he said.

Aqahuto area CSOs suspend...

(From p-1) Dimapur district administration to arrest the culprits behind the incident in which two houses were burnt at Khehoi village on February 20, failing which they warned of taking their own course of action.

The letter stated that general public of the area and CSOs held at meeting in this regard at Pimla village on Monday and condemned the “cowardly act”, adding that an FIR has already been filed at Chumukedirna police station in connection with the incident.

No new COVID case reported in State

DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): No new COVID19 cases were reported in Nagaland on Tuesday, while the total caseload remained at 12192.

As on February 23, the State recorded 12 active cases. Meanwhile, State Health department has informed that 29,759 doses of Covishield Vaccine have been administered across the state till date.

According to state immunization officer (UIP) Dr. Ritu Thurr, 43% of the registered healthcare work-

ers and 30% of frontline workers have been vaccinated with the first dose. In addition, 4,819 healthcare workers have completed the full two doses, Dr. Thurr said, adding that no adverse events needing medical intervention has been reported from any of the districts.

Further, Dr. Thurr informed that mop up sessions for health care workers would end on February 25, 2021 and all registered healthcare workers should get vaccinated in the next two days.

NOTIFICATION

Registration of Suppliers/Firms 2021-22

Applications are invited for the enlistment of eligible and capable firms / suppliers in the locality / neighbouring city for procurement of goods / services / work as and when required basis. Please visit our website for details: zakhma.kvs.ac.in Sd/Principal

DC-173

OFFICE OF THE

NAGALAND OLYMPIC ASSOCIATION NAGALAND, KOHIMA

ADVERTISEMENT The Nagaland Olympic Association invites application for walk in interview from interested persons to work in the Office of the Nagaland Olympic Association based at Kohima six days a week with admissibility of all public holidays. The interview will be for temporary recruitment of one post of Accounts Assistant and one post of Office Assistant. Application in plain paper addressed to Secretary General, Nagaland Olympic Association, C/O T. Meren Paul, No 113, Tzuwar Apartments, Below Mizo Church, Lower PR Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001, in a sealed envelope should be submitted on or before 20/03/2021. Candidates who meet the criteria will be called for interview on a specific date.

Requisite qualifications are as follows.

1. Post of Accounts Assistant- must be a Commerce Graduate having the knowledge of computer tally and knowledge of games & sports. Should be above 20 years of age and below 35 years. Fix pay of Rs. 25,000.00 (twenty five thousands) per month. The appointment shall be for an initial period of 12 months which may be extended.

2. Post of Office Assistance- must hold a graduate degree from any recognized university, 6 months certificate course in computer application, computer typing speed of minimum 25 words per minute. Preference shall be given to candidate having office working procedures. Should be above 20 years age and below 35 years. Fix pay of Rs. 25,000.00 (twenty five thousand) per month.

3. Candidates should produce all original documents in support of their candidature during the time of the interview. Appointment shall be purely temporary for a period on 12 months which may be further given extension on the basis of performance.

K-442

5 Gehlot govt to withdraw SLP in SC against Pilot camp

national/state

Sd/Secretary General, NOA

Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot

JAIPUR, FEB 23 (IANS): Rajasthan Congress chief whip Dr. Mahesh Joshi has sought the withdrawal of an SLP (Special Leave Petitions) which was filed in the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of 19 Congress MLAs’ membership, including Sachin Pilot, last year after the latter camp opened rebellion against state leadership.

The Congress faction led by Ashok Gehlot and the Pilot camp were face to face last year during a bitter political tussle. Soon after, an SLP was filed against the Sachin Pilot group in the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of membership of 19 Congress MLAs led by Sachin Pilot from the state Assembly.

In the latest development in the matter, the chief whip on Monday sought the withdrawal of SLP from the Apex Court.

Joshi told IANS, “This SLP does not hold any

meaning now because all differences have been resolved and we stand together now.”

After a rebellion of 19 MLAs including Sachin Pilot last year, Chief Whip Mahesh Joshi filed a petition before Assembly Speaker Dr. C.P. Joshi on July 13 last year, accusing all the MLAs of violating the party whip. Three days later the Speaker issued a notice to all the MLAs, which was challenged in the High Court. The court on July 24 had ordered the Speaker to maintain a status quo.

The SLP was filed in the Supreme Court by Speaker C.P. Joshi and Chief Whip Mahesh Joshi against the decision of the High Court.

On this, the Supreme Court issued a notice and sought answers from all the parties.

Meanwhile, Mahesh Joshi filed an application to withdraw the SLP, but the SLP of the Speaker Joshi remains intact.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

DIRECTORATE OF HORTICULTURE NAGALAND : KOHIMA

NO. HR/DTE/PMKSY/CORR/2019-20/

Kohima Dated the

Feb 2020

NOTICE INVITING EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

The Director, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland invites Expression of Interest (EOI) from established and reputed Micro Irrigation System manufacturers/ agency for the supply and installation of Drip/Sprinkler Irrigation System in Farmers’ field under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) Per Drop More Crop in Nagaland. The terms of reference for the EOI will be as under 1. The implementation includes both supply and installation of Micro Irrigation System in the beneficiary farmers’ fields.

2. Micro Irrigation System manufacturing companies or their authorised dealers/firms empanelled under the Government of India with valid BIS registration license are only eligible to participate in this EOI process.

3. Empanelment of the firms will be for all the Districts of the State.

4. The Firm should possess a valid GSTIN obtained under Section 25 (1) of the NGST Act, 2017 and the firms from outside the State should mandatorily have GST registration within the State.

5. The rates given for the various Micro-Irrigation Systems will be in accordance to the cost norms permissible under the PMKSY guidelines and the different BIS Equipment/ materials required may be referred from the guidelines which is available at the PMKSY website: www.pmksy.gov.in 6. Only BIS marked system/components can be supplied under the scheme and no escalation in prices will be allowed during the empanelment period.

7. The empanelled firm should ensure that the Micro Irrigation Systems i.e. Drip and Sprinkler systems, supplied are covered with warranty for minimum one year from the date of supply against any manufacturing defects / workmanship, etc, and the repairs/replacements shall be attended free of cost within the warranty period.

8. The Authority may levy a penalty on the empanelled firms if found that supplied component are not conforming to minimum BIS standards/ Specification as per IS:14151 Part-I, 1999 and IS:14151 Part-II, 2008, Lateral as per IS:12786, Emitting pipes as per IS:13488, HDPE Pipes IS:4984 and IS:14151 Part-II, UPVC Pipes IS:4985, Emitters/ Drippers as per IS: 13487. The cost of such products would be recovered from the security submitted by the firms.

9. The System manufacturer will have to submit detail specification & the valid certificate of BIS rating for each product they are offering for empanelment. The manufacturer will submit their price offer only for the product for which they have submitted the specification and valid BIS certificate. They will be empanelled for those particular products only.

10. In case the company intends to supply imported components, it should obtain prior approval of DAC&FW subject to indigenize the manufacturing of component within a period of two years. In case of imported equipment, the techno-economic analysis report will be provided

by NCPAH after proper examination and verification and submit report to DAC&FW for consideration.

11. The empanelled Companies/firms is liable to provide free after sales service to the beneficiary for a period of at least three years from the date of installation of the system, failing which, appropriate action similar to other consumer product may be initiated.

12. The empanelled firms/companies will install the system and commission it to the satisfaction of the beneficiary and obtain a certificate towards successful installation/ commissioning of the system which should be duly verified by the concerned District Horticulture Officer along with photographic evidence. Payment will be subject to fulfilling this condition by the firm.

13. Necessary orientation and training is to be given to the beneficiary on the system maintenance and irrigating the crop with Drip/Sprinkler irrigation.

14. The companies must provide guarantee of quality assurance of other components which are not manufactured by them.

15. The Authority has right to disengage the empanelment of the firm if found that product supplied by the firm is not as per the minimum specified IS standard and specification or its IS certification gets invalid. The firm shall have to submit the renewed IS certificate to the authority as and when the certificate gets invalid during the period of empanelment.

16. If at any time it is noticed that the manufacturer has supplied same component at a lower price in the open market during the period of this empanelment, the Authority shall take suitable appropriate course of action against the empanelled System Manufacturer.

17. If the interested firm/ company back out or withdraw at any stage of the empanelment process, it will become ineligible to participate in any such empanelment exercise to be carried out by the authority in future.

18. The empanelled vendors shall not sub-contract the entire work of installation of the System to the associate dealer/distributor/other vendors. If agency is found to be sub-contracting the entire work of installation, the empanelment of such agency shall be cancelled by the Authority.

19. The Authority has right to cancel the empanelment at any point of time during the contract period.

Interested firms may submit their application stating details of manufacturers for the supply and installation of drip/sprinkler irrigation system, considering different land size and using standard BIS equipment /material for :a) Drip Irrigation i. Wide Spaced Crop, –for more than 2m spaced crop ii. Wide Spaced Crop - for 2m to 4m spaced crop iii. Close Spaced Crop, - for 1.2m to 2m spaced crop iv. Close Spaced Crop - for less than 1.2m spaced crop. b) Micro Sprinkler c) Mini Sprinkler d) Semi- Permanent sprinkler e) Portable Sprinkler f) Large Volume Sprinkler The EOI should reach the undersigned within 10 days from the date of publication of this advertisement in the dailies and the proposals so received will be scrutinised by a Technical Committee constituted for this purpose. Shortlisted manufacturers/agency will be empanelled as an “APPROVED VENDOR” for Five (5) Years from the date of signing the agreement.

DC-177

(Dr. R ELITHUNG LOTHA) Director of Horticulture Nagaland: Kohima

6

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXxI NO. 79 Dimapur, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

P

Tax Burden

etrol and diesel prices in India have increased 22 times in 2021 with the two auto fuels increasing by Rs 6.17 and Rs 6.40 per litre, respectively, so far this year. The continuing hikes have made India as the country with the highest tax rate for both petrol and diesel in the world. Both petrol and diesel in India are much more expensive than in neighbouring Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh. For example, petrol in Myanmar is INR.48.38, Bhutan INR 49.56, Pakistan INR 51.14, Sri Lanka INR 60.26, Nepal INR 68.98,Bangladesh INR 76.41 and India INR 91.76. Taxes make up for over 61 per cent of retail petrol price while they constitute more than 56 per cent of diesel pump rates. Even when international crude oil prices plummeted in 2020 due to lower demand, Indians kept paying higher rates for petrol and diesel due to the various taxes levied. Also, despite the 13 per cent drop in international crude rates, Indians paid 13 per cent higher prices (considering the average price of petrol to be Rs 88 per litre) from January 2020 to January 2021. As petrol and diesel prices continue to rise across the country, Indians are paying four times for a litre of petrol compared to its crude price. The tax by Government of India on petrol is about Rs.33 per litre and diesel by about Rs. 32 per litre. On top of it, there is Rs.2.5 per litre dealer commission for diesel and Rs.3.5 per litre on petrol. During UPA-II ( 2012-2013), petrol was sold at Rs 66.06 and diesel at Rs 48.63 per litre as against a crude oil price of $108.

Under NDA rule since 2014 till date, petrol is now sold at Rs 100 per litre while international crude prices are just above $60. In 2018, fuel price in India was the highest in South Asia despite crude oil prices being at $56.43. Even while having the advantage of low crude oil prices of $46.17 per barrel in 2016 and $47.56 in 2017, price of petrol and diesel were as high as Rs 58 and Rs 66 per litre respectively. Even after international crude prices nosedived in February this year, an Indian consumer still paid nearly five times higher (Rs 72.93 per litre) than the crude oil price (Rs 15.60 per litre). After the gradual easing of the lockdown, crude oil price was revived to Rs 25 a litre in January this year, but consumers ended up paying Rs 87.57 per litre, more than three times higher. This is because every time crude prices fall, the government imposes fresh taxes.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman levied an additional agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC) of Rs 2.5 per litre on petrol and Rs 4 per litre on diesel in the Union Budget presented on February 1. Tax on petrol and diesel is one commodity, which all finance ministers love to tax. This is a tax, which is very easy to collect.

There is no charge of collection, there is hardly any leakage, and consumption is not decreasing because this is an essential item for a developing economy. What one can understand is that the government is more focussed on earning its revenue while the ordinary citizens groan under tax burdens.

DailyDevotion The Determination to Serve

The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve… —Matthew 20:28 Jesus also said, “Yet I am among you as the One who serves” (Luke 22:27). Paul’s idea of service was the same as our Lord’s— “…ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Corinthians 4:5).

We somehow have the idea that a person called to the ministry is called to be different and above other people. But according to Jesus Christ, he is called to be a “doormat” for others— called to be their spiritual leader, but never their superior. Paul said, “I know how to be abased…” (Philippians 4:12).

Paul’s idea of service was to pour his life out to the last drop for others. And whether he received praise or blame made no difference. As long as there was one human being who did not know Jesus, Paul felt a debt of service to that person until he did come to know Him. But the chief motivation behind Paul’s service was not love for others but love for his Lord.

If our devotion is to the cause of humanity, we will be quickly defeated and broken-hearted, since we will often be confronted with a great deal of ingratitude from other people. But if we are motivated by our love for God, no amount of ingratitude will be able to hinder us from serving one another.

Paul’s understanding of how Christ had dealt with him is the secret behind his determination to serve others. “I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man…” (1 Timothy 1:13). In other words, no matter how badly others may have treated Paul, they could never have treated him with the same degree of spite and hatred with which he had treated Jesus Christ. Once we realize that Jesus has served us even to the depths of our meagerness, our selfishness, and our sin, nothing we encounter from others will be able to exhaust our determination to serve others for His sake.

Quotes

If you can't describe what you are doing as a process, you don't know what you're doing. ~ W. Edwards Deming

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

Post-mortem

Mandal Commission: Most recommendations in deep freeze T he Constitution of India ensures right to equality for its citizens, but due to social discrimination a large section of society has minimal representation in services & other sectors. To cope up the situation of Socially & Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC), the Second Backward Classes Commission headed by Sri B.P. Mandal was set up by the Janata Party government on 1st January 1979. The Commission submitted its report on 31st Dec 1980, but it lay in deep freeze for whole decade of Congress regime. When the Janata Dal government came to power in 1989, notification for 27% reservation for SEBC in services of Central Government & its public sector undertakings was issued on 13th August 1990.

The report reveals that “The population of OBCs, both Hindu and Non-Hindu, is around 52% of the total population of India. Accordingly, a pro-rata reservation of 52% of all posts under the Central Govt. should be reserved for them. But this provision will go against the law laid down in a number of Supreme Court judgements wherein it has been held that the total quantum of reservation under article 15(4) & 16(4) of the Constitution should be below 50%. In view of

this the proposed reservation for OBCs would have to be pegged at a figure which, when added to 22.5% for SCs and STs, remains below 50%. In view of these legal constraints, the Commission recommended a reservation of 27% only, even though their population is twice the figure. States which have already introduced reservation for OBCs exceeding 27% will remain unaffected by this recommendation.”

Reservation of only 27% for SEBC has been recommended by the Commission due to legal constraint of 50% ceiling by the Court, otherwise it would have been as per population proportion i.e.

52%. In 2019 the ceiling has been increased to 60% through 103rd Constitutional amendment, for provision of 10% reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS) of upper castes. The same process should have been done for providing 52% reservation in place of just 27% to SEBC too, but fragmented depressed sections have never been in the priority list of the Governments.

The Janata Dal as well as the following C e n t r a l g ove r n m e n t s have not implemented all recommendations of the Mandal Commission.

The Commission’s recommendations are not for just government services,

which are not more than 1% of the population; but for all-round development of the society, so that after certain period all citizens may stand up on the same bench mark. The following schemes for OBCs have been recommended by the Commission whose implementation is still awaited: (1) Candidates belonging to OBCs recruited on the basis of merit in an open competition should not be adjusted against their reservation quota of 27%.

(2) The above reservation should also be made applicable to promotion quota at all levels.

(3) Reserved quota remaining unfilled should be carry forward for a period of three years and dereserved thereafter.

(4) Relaxation in upper age limit for direct recr uitment should be extended to the candidates of OBCs in the same manner a done in case of SCs & STs. (5) A roaster system for each category of posts should be adopted by the concerned authorities in the same manner as presently done in respect of SC & ST candidates.

(6) The above scheme of reservation in its toto should also be made applicable to all recruitment to public sector undertakings both under the Central and State Governments, as also to nationalized

banks.

(7) All private sector undertakings which have received financial assistance from the government should recruit personnel on aforesaid basis.

(8) All universities and affiliated colleges should also be covered by the above scheme of reservation.

E D U C AT I O NAL CONCESSIONS: Adult education programme and residential schools started on a selective basis will operate as growing points of consciousness of entire community.

27% seats should be reserved for OBC students in all scientific, technical and professional institutions run by Central as well as State Governments. Those states, which have already reser ved more than 27% seats for OBC students, will remain unaffected by these recommendations.

Special coaching facilities should be arranged for all such students in our technical and professional institutions so that these young people not feel frustrated & humiliated and also the country not landed with ill-equipped & sub-standard engineers, doctors and other professionals.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Separate financial institutions for providing

financial and technical assistance should be established for vocational communities (such as village potter, oil crusher, blacksmith, carpenter etc.).

S T RU C T URAL CHANGES: All the State Governments should be directed to enact and implement progressive land legislation so as to effect basic structural changes in the exiting production relations in the countryside.

At present surplus land is being allotted to SCs & STs. A part of the surplus land becoming available in future as result of the operation of land ceiling laws etc. should also be allotted to the OBC landless labours.

M I S C E LLA NEOUS: (1) Certain section of occupational communities like Fisherman, Banjaras, Khatwes, Bansforas etc. who still suffer from untouchability, may be included in the lists of SCs/STs. (2) Backward Classes Development Corporations should be set up both at the Central & State level to implement various socio-educational & economic measures for their advancement.

(3) A separate Ministry/Department for OBCs at the Centre and States should be created to safeguard their interests.

(4) To give better representation to very back-

ward sections of OBCs like the Gaddis in H.P., Neo-Buddhists in Maharashtra, Fishermen in Coastal areas, Gujjars in Jammu & Kashmir , areas of their concentration should be made into separate constituencies at the time of delimitation.

CENTRAL ASSISTANCE: All development programmes especially for OBCs by State government should be financed

by Central Government in the same manner and to the same extent as done in the case of SCs & STs. Entire scheme should be revised only after twenty years (i.e. span of one generation). Any review at shorter interval would not give fair indication of the impact of recommendations on the prevailing status & life-styles of OBCs. The commission’s report was based on prorata basis of last Census of 1931. There is strong demand from public since long time for caste wise survey in Census 2021 and reservation to OBCs in proportion of their population. This would be helpful not only in the formulation of welfare schemes effectively & efficiently, but also for eradicating inequality in the society more rapidly.

Er. Prabhat Kishore (Author is a technocrat and academician)

Toolkit is not a terror manual Need for Infrastructure Financing in India –

T

he recent arrest of a young climate activist in India for her association with a guide to passive resistance movements has once again exposed the true colours of the world’s so called largest democracy.

Twenty-one-year-old Disha Ravi was arrested by Delhi Police from Bengaluru under conspiracy charges.

Her only fault is her link with a toolkit built by the Canada-based Poetic Justice Foundation. #AskIndiaWhy is an amazing document that reveals how the currently ruling right wing Hindu nationalist government in India is suppressing the rights of religious minorities, marginalized groups and political dissidents, including farmers who have been protesting near New Delhi against controversial laws threatening their livelihoods. Available online, the toolkit educates readers how to raise their voices against an intolerant regime led by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A quick tour of the document shows that it merely guides people how to use peaceful means to show solidarity with the protesting farmers worldwide. Any sane person can see that the toolkit is not a terror manual as the Indian state is trying to make people believe.

The trouble began when Greta Thunberg, a global icon of the climate justice movement, shared it on twitter while showing her support for the agitating farmers.Outraged over international support received by the struggle, the Indian government is using every tool in its toolbox to vilify those who have raised their voices.

Following Greta’s tweet, the Delhi police filed a criminal conspiracy case to launch an investigation. Disha, being part of the climate justice network, came under scanner, and the police are trying to portray her as the supporter of Khalistan – an imaginary Sikh state to be carved out of Punjab. Their argument is that some of those associated with Poetic Justice Foundation have pro-

Khalistan inclinations.

Even if for the argument sake we believe what the police are saying, asking for Khalistan through democratic means is not a crime.

Secondly, the toolkit that is a cornerstone of this case is neither a pro-Khalistan document, nor does it incite hatred or violence. On the contrary, those in power continue to spread hatred and violence against minorities and political opponents with impunity. If that is all acceptable, then why such selectivity towards Khalistan?

The hounding of Disha is more about trampling the right to resist than about Khalistan, a dead issue which is being constantly used to rile up the Hindu majority against the farmers from Punjab, who are predominantly Sikhs. For the record, it is not the first time that the Khalistan issue has been evoked during the ongoing agitation. It has been evoked numerous times even in the past to silence anyone holding alternative viewpoints within the Sikh community. Similarly, any Muslim opponent is labelled as Jihadi or Pakistani, whereas anyone from the majority community is conveniently branded as anti-national. For most left wing opponents, this government repeatedly uses the expression of “urban naxal”.

Disha has therefore joined the long list of those who have been demonized and thrown behind bars under draconian laws for the past several years now.

It’s time for all those at the receiving to join hands and fight back together against such blatant fascism. Besides Disha, all political prisoners need to be released and allowed to work freely by using toolkit to make India a better place on earth. Otherwise, India will face consequences for these actions that go against the spirit of democracy and a free society.

Gurpreet Singh is a journalist (This article was first published on Countercurrents on Feb 22)

Role of New Multilateral Development Banks

I

nfrastructure financing is sine quo non for promoting and sustaining rapid economic growth.

India’s investments in infrastructure have been growing over the years, from Rs. 24 lakh crores between 2008 and 2012, to Rs. 56.2 lakh crore between 2013 and 2019.

During this period, around 70 per cent of the infrastructure financing was sourced from the public sector and remaining was funded by the private sector - a sub-optimal mix for sustaining infrastructure financing in India.

India aims to achieve the target of becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2025 and infrastructure development has an important role to play.

As per the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), the total capital expenditure in infrastructure sectors in India is projected at around Rs. 111 lakh crore($1.5 trillion) between 2020 and 2025.

Critical Challenges However, there are some challenges to achieving these targets including (a) challenge of stressed assets faced by banks and infraNBFCs, (b) limited private sector finance, (c) low adoption of sustainable and climate resilient development practices, (d) limited social infrastructureand (e) reduced external demand, industrial production, investment and employment, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Role of Institutional Financing To overcome these challenges a combination of reforms, institutional finance and strong institutional technical assistance is needed. Infrastructure sector received adequate attention in the Union Budget 2021, with special focus on monetizing operating public infrastructure assets, foreign participation through InVITS and REITs route and proposed sharp increase in capital expenditure at Rs 5.54 lakh crores, which is 34.5 per cent higher than the budget estimate 2020-21. Together these will continue to create plethora of fresh investment opportunities, which can bring about trade and development that supports economic growth.

The Union Budget 2021 announcement on setting up of a Development Financial Institution (DFI)to provide, enable and catalyze infrastructure financing is a positive move. However,considering the huge infrastructure financing need, a more diversified approach, that is, cooperation with Multilat-

eral Development Banks (MDBs) is also an effective way forward.

MDBs are well-positioned in transforming infrastructure needsinto technically feasible and financially viable projects while creating financing platforms for institutional capital to enter at scale.

Capable of fulfilling common global financial needs, they generate impact at a large scale by(i) addressing sustainable development(ii) connecting borders and economies and (iii) bridging infrastructure investment gaps etc. Though, MDBs are only a small part of the overall infrastructure financing ecosystem, still they play a crucial role by providing innovative financing instruments, technical assistance and facilitate crowding in private sector investments in infrastructure.

Among the MDBs, the new generation banks such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the New Development Bank (NDB),focus mainly on infrastructure investments including traditional sovereign loans, nonsovereign operations and technical assistance.They have built up a sizeable infrastructure investment portfolio over last five years amounting to $22 billion for AIIB and around $25 billion for NDB. In India $5.4 billion worth of projects are being financed by the AIIB and $6.9 billion worth of projects by the NDB. In addition, there are huge bankable projects of India in pipeline. Due to the large and robust capital base, the potential lending capacity of these parallel institutions can be very substantial. The modus operandi of these

banks is “lean banking structure” with a small efficient management team and highly skilled staff. They are less bureaucratic, flexible and respond to client demands with agility. Progressing to expand their presence in the area of development financing and effective governance, these Banks have grown at a rapid pace, thereby creating a niche in the market.

India is the second largest shareholder in the AIIB and an equal shareholder along with other BRICS members, with 20 per cent stake in the NDB.By virtue of being the key shareholder, India is actively involved in formation of the Banks’ key policies, governance structures, etc. This has contributed to the growth and business, Banks’ engagements with other MDBs and market presence of these young banks.

Considering the huge resource requirements for infrastructure development and long-term finance to support long gestation projects, India will benefit from further leveraging its partnerships with MDBs like the AIIB and NDB. This will help in promoting innovation and structural transformation and enhance financing of infrastructure.

This opens avenue for a win-win situation for both India and these new MDBs. To conclude, we see these MDBs playing a proactive role in fostering collaboration and cooperation, which, in turn, will fast-trackinfrastructure financing in member countries including India.

Prasanna V. Salian and Divya Satija

Reader’s Post

Shopkeepers should not clog drains Sir,

It is found that shopkeepers throw their wastes Unscrupulously inside the drains in front or below their shops. Dimapur become flooded at the slightest rain due to lack of civic sense and behavior of its own citizens who mostly contribute to blockages of nallas, which creates havoc and hazardous environment.

Since citizens don't seem to learn themselves, I would like to suggest penalty to be implemented by appropriate authorities. Regular inspection maybe carried out and fines imposed on defaulters rigorously, then only people can live in clean and healthy environment.

Shiloh Kath, H/No.50, UNB - Naga Colony, Burma Camp

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.

Priyanka Gandhi calls PM Modi ‘arrogant’, ‘coward’

MATHURA, FEB 23 (PTI): Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a “kisanmahapanchayat” here, calling him “arrogant” and a “coward” who does not owns up the responsibility for his policies.

She also accused the PM of insulting farmers by making a mockery of them in Parliament through his “andolanjeevi” (habitual agitators) remark.

Promising that her party will repeal the new farm laws when it comes to power, Priyanka alleged that they have been enacted by those engaged in making money (“notonkikheti”) to benefit their “billionaire friends”. “People have always taught a lesson to arrogant governments, and the time for it has arrived,” she said, claiming that all election promises made by the ruling party have turned out to be false.

“The truth is that the prime minister is not only arrogant (‘ahankari’) but also a coward (‘kayar’).

As soon as his policies are questioned, he backtracks,” said the Congress leader, accusing the PM of wrongly blaming her party’s policies for high fuel prices.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi being felicitated during a ‘Kisan Mahapanchayat’ in Mathura, Tuesday. (PTI)

Thank God the previous Congress governments had developed industries, otherwise, the present government would not have been able to sell anything, she said.

The Congress general secretary also said the GST and demonetisation were introduced to benefit “billionaire friends” of the prime minister.

She said the government is “intoxicated” by the idea of selling public sector assets and asked people at the gathering to save the sacred Govardhan hill “lest the BJP should sell it”.

She alleged that while the Centre collected over Rs 20 lakh crore through taxes on fuel and waived loans of

its “billionaire friends”, it did not spare a single penny for farmers.

Speaking over the farm laws, she said they will continue to fight for the cause of farmers till the anti-farmer legislations are repealed.

“The Congress will repeal the laws when it comes to power if the present government failed to do so,” she said.

She also said promises like doubling the income of farmers, waiving their loans and clearing sugarcane arrears have proved hollow.

The government does not have Rs 15,000 crore to pay to farmers while two planes worth Rs 16,000 crore were purchased for the prime minister, she said.

7

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

Farmer unions object to Delhi cops posters at Tikri protest site NEW DELHI, FEB 23 (PTI): Agitating farmer union on Tuesday objected to Delhi Police putting posters that allegedly warned off protesters at the Tikri border site, even as the force claimed these were not new and only informed the protesters that they would not be allowed to enter the national capital.

In a statement, the SamyuktaKisanMorcha, an umbrella body of farmer unions that is spearheading the ongoing agitation against the three agri laws, said that it is opposed to the police’s move as the protesters were exercising their constitutional right and appealed to the farmers to continue their sit-in peacefully.

Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at three Delhi border points --- Singhu, Tikri and Ghazipur --- for nearly 90 days, demanding a complete repeal of the three agri laws and a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price for crops.

“The Delhi Police has placed some posters at the Tikri border protest site where farmers have been warned that they will have to vacate the area. Such posters are irrelevant as farmers have been staging a peaceful protest by exercising their

constitutional rights....

“We will oppose the conspiracy to end the protest with these kinds of threats and warnings,” the SKM said in the statement.

In the posters, the police have not given any deadline to the protesting farmers to vacate the area.

On its part, the Delhi Police said it is a “routine” process.

“The posters were pasted at the border area after the protest started. It is a routine exercise. Police have conveyed to them through posters that they are sitting in the jurisdiction of Haryana and they are not allowed to enter the national capital unlawfully,” a senior police officer said.

Thousands of protesters had clashed with the police during a tractor parade called by the agitating farmer unions on January 26.

After police permitted the rally, many protesters deviated from the agreed route and reached the Red Fort on tractors. They entered the monument and some of them even hoisted religious flags at the ramparts.

The government has projected the three farm laws as major reforms in the agriculture sector that will remove the middlemen and allow farmers to sell anywhere in the country.

BJP strengthens hold in Gujarat civic polls; AAP gains at Congress’ expense

BJP workers and supporters celebrate after the party won civic body election, outside the counting station in Ahmedabad, Tuesday. (PTI)

GANDHINAGAR, FEB 23 (AGENCIES): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has further strengthened its political hold on Gujarat, showed the civic poll results on February 23.

While the final numbers were yet to be out, the BJP was massively ahead of the rival Congress.

The ruling party was leading in all the six municipal corporations that went to polls on February 21.

Out of the total 576 seats, it was ahead in 341, as per the trends available by the time this report was published.

The Congress, which had won 174 of these 576 seats in the 2015 civic polls, was so far leading only in 38 seats. The party’s prospects were also damaged by the entry of Arvind Kejriwal’s AamAadmi Party (AAP).

The AAP, to the sur-

prise of pollsters, has won 27 seats, as per the results declared so far. All the victories were scored by the party in Surat, whereas the BJP won the remainder of 93 seats in the civic body. The Congress ended up drawing a blank in the city. In Ahmedabad, the BJP was leading in 101 out of 192 seats, whereas the Congress candidates were ahead in only 15 wards. In Rajkot, the BJP was ahead in 56 out of the 72 seats. The Congress was yet to open its account.

Jamnagar was also swept by the BJP, which was ahead in 43 out of the 64 seats. The Congress was leading in six wards of the urban civic body.

Bhavanagar, a region where the Congress performed impressively in the last assembly polls, also witnessed a BJP wave as the party was

ahead in 31 out of the 52 local body seats contested.

The Congress was leading in only five wards.

Vadodara, which was one of the hotspots of the Patidar quota movement that rocked Gujarat from 2015-17, also voted largely for the BJP. The party was ahead in 48 out of the 76 seats, whereas the Congress was leading in only seven wards. The civic poll results assume significance as they come in backdrop of the farmers’ stir against the new agriculture reform laws. The victory will serve as a shot in the arm for the ruling BJP ahead of the assembly elections next year.

“I assure the people of Gujarat that the BJP will not let the trust placed in the BJP go to waste,” Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said, reacting to the civic poll results.

Coal pilferage case: CBI examines Abhishek’s wife Government approves purchase of Arjun tanks, arms

(A Central University Established by an Act No. 35 of Parliament 1989) School of Agricultural Sciences & Rural Development Medziphema Campus – 797 106 (Nagaland) SAMN/ADMN-PRJ/E-132/16-1223 22.02.2021

CORRIGENDUM

The last date of receipt of application for the post of Assistant Pathologist (Scientist) under AICRP Vegetable Crops, Deptt. of Horticulture, SASRD, NU, Medziphema issued vide this office order No. SAMN/ADMN-PRJ/E-132/16-880 dated 11.12.2020 is hereby extend till the 31st of March 2021.

Sd/Pro-Vice Chancellor

DMI ST. JOSEPH GLOBAL SCHOOL (Affiliated to CBSE Affiliation No. 1430018) Virgin Town, Khekiho Zhimomi Road, Ikishe Model Village, PS-Diphupar, Dimapur, Nagaland-797115

WALK-IN INTERVIEW For the Academic year 2021-2022, well-qualified, experienced teachers are required for the following positions: S. No Subjects No. of Post Qualification 1.

Mathematics 1 M.Sc., B.Ed 2.

Hindi 2 B.A./M.A., B.Ed 3.

English 2 M.A., B.Ed

DC-174

Interested candidates may walk in for interview with their original certificates at 10.00 AM on 26th February 2021. Preference will be given to the candidates who have at least two years of experience in the respective field.

For any query, feel free to contact: 7629873663/8413098725

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1. Coaching for class 10 (Ten) Repeaters & Regular students in all subjects 2. Class 12 (Arts & Commerce) Repeaters in all subjects 3. Coaching for NPSC,UPSC(prelims-2021) SSC and other Competitive exams 4. Computer Course: - (DCA, DTP) 6. Spoken English 7. Stenography & Typewriting 8. Cutting & Tailoring 9. Embroidery 10. Knitting Contact CAPITAL TRAINING INSTITUTE & COACHING CENTRE Near T.C.P Gate, Kohima Mob: 9402831939/9774243787/9436201083

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NAGALAND

hishek’s residence comes afterRujira told the central agency that she will be available forexamination between 11 am and 3 pm on February 23, replying toa notice that the sleuths had hand-delivered her on Sunday.

The agency sought the examination of Rujira Banerjeeto ascertain the details

posal of 118 Made-in-India Mark 1A Arjun tanks and 820 armoured vehicles.

All these acquisition proposals will be indigenously designed, developed and manufactured. These will include inter-alia platforms and systems designed

UNIVERSITY

(A Central University Established by the Act of Parliament No.35 of 1989) Campus: Medziphema School of Agricultural Sciences & Rural Development Medziphema Campus – 797 106 (Nagaland) Ref.No.:SASRD/DF-73/2020-72 Date: 22.02.2021

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Sd/Prof. Akali Sema Project Coordinator Nagaland University, Central University Consortium

Presents 2nd Edition Astro Turf Futsal Tournament 1st Prize : Rs. 25,000/- & Champions trophy 2nd : Rs. 15,000/Player of the Tournament & Best Goal Keeper Certificates along with sports merchandise Fee per team Rs. 2500/Last date of form submission March 8, 2021 Venue : Zasivi Futsal Arena, Jotsoma Date : 12th to 13th March 2021 Form available at * Toothcraft Dental Clinic, near Nike Showroom * Northern Sports Sepfüzou * Uptown fast-food, Lower Bayavü Contact No. 7005402295/7005505787

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kata’s Harish MukherjeeRoad minutes before the CBI team landed there.

The CBI reached Abhishek’s residence just before noonand the examination went on for around an hour, sources said.

The team left around 1.15 pm amid a heavy policepresence.

The CBI’s visit to Ab-

ly Designed, Developed and Manufactured).

“DAC has approved capital acquisition proposals of various weapons/platforms/ equipment/systems required by the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force,” the MoD said. The government cleared pro-

and developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

To meet the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ goals of the government on timebound defence procurement process and faster decision making and to systematically work towards reducing the time taken for capital acquisition, the DAC also approved that all capital acquisition contracts (delegated and non-delegated) other than design and development cases shall be concluded in two years.

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DC-178

KO L K ATA , F E B 2 3 (PTI): A CBI team examined TrinamoolCongress MP Abhishek Banerjee’s wife Rujira on Tuesday inconnection with the coal pilferage case, officials said.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the residenceof her nephew Abhishek in south Kol-

NEW DELHI, FEB 23 (IANS): The Defence Acquisition Council headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved capital acquisition proposals of various weapons and equipment including 118 Arjun tanks on Tuesday.

“Three Acceptance of Necessities (AoNs) for an overall cost of Rs 13,700 crore were accorded,” the Ministry of Defence said.

All these Acceptance of Necessities are in the highest priority category of Defence Acquisition -- Buy Indian-IDDM (Indigenous-

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Media personnel near the residence of TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee after CBI officials arrived to question his wife Rujira Banerjee in Kolkata, Tuesday. (PTI)

of her bank transactions, suspectinga connection to the proceeds of the illegal coal excavationmoney, sources said.

On Monday, the CBI examined Rujira’s sister MenakaGambhir in connection with the same case. Two woman officers of the CBI visited Gambhir’sresidence off EM Bypass and had examined her for nearly threehours.

T h e d eve l o p m e n t s come months ahead of the assemblyelections in the state with Trinamool Congress alleging it tobe a political vendetta.

The CBI on November 28 last year carried out a massivesearch operation in a number of locations across four states-- West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh – afterregistering a case against one Anup Majhi alias Lala. It is alleged that Lala, the alleged kingpin of thescam, is involved in illegal mining and theft of coal fromleasehold mines of ECL in Kunustoria and Kajora areas, sourcessaid.

8

business/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

India’s GDP may turn positive in Q3FY21 Centre unveils strategy to boost exports

Centre approves 56,368 Gold jumps Rs 337; SMEs plan to expand business Rupee clocks new houses under PMAY-U silver shoots up as economy revives: Survey marginal 3p gains

KAKURO

No. 4461 Yesterday’s solution No. 4460

No. 3485 Yesterday’s solution No. 3484

Across 1. Vote in (5) 6. Communion table (5) 9. Result (7) 10. Raising agent (5) 11. Approaches (5) 12. Noblemen (5) 13. Rifle attachment (7) 15. Small lid or cover (3) 17. Yes votes (4) 18. Long step or pace (6) 19. Homeless dog (5) 20. Afternoon nap (6) 22. Heap (4) 24. Girl’s name (3) 25. Liked by many (7) 26. Regular practice (5) 27. Backless sofa (5) 28. Easy to lift (5) 29. Disregards (7) 30. Kind or style (5) 31. In that place (5) Down 2. Room for manoeuvre (6) 3. World, universe (6) 4. Sound of annoyance (3) 5. Outrider (5) 6. General pardon (7) 7. Sediment (4) 8. Overseas (6) 12. Greek letter (5) 13. Light wood (5) 14. Republic in SW Arabia (5) 15. Polite, courteous (5) 16. Boy’s name (5) 18. Wooden shoe (5) 19. Peculiar (7) 21. Ask along (6) 22. Deal with (6) 23. Suds (6) 25. Flier (5) 26. Head covering (4) 28. Permit (3)

D I M A P U R , F EB 2 3 (NPN): Expressing displeasure over the missing of their names in the final payment list of compensation for Dhansiri-Zubza Railway Line, the 18 landowners of Sirhima village have served one-week ultimatum on the responsible authority to clarify whether their land was required for railway line construction.

In a press release, Kuodelie Kuotsu and Neipephu Linyü, on behalf of the 18 land owners, cautioned that failure to respond would compel them to construe that their lands were “not required” and that they could utilize their land for other

purposes as deemed fit.

They claimed that 43 beneficiaries of land owners were finalised after being duly authenticated/certified by the village council and the district administration along with all the concerned parties.

However, the signatories said that subsequent payment was found “unjust and biased” as payment was made only to 15 Kuki beneficiaries while 18 Angami beneficiaries were neither paid nor intimated besides three authenticated Angami beneficiaries plots paid in favour of VCC. “All this was done without our chance given for prior claims and objections,” the signatories said.

WANTED DRIVER WANTED TEACHER

CANDIDATE WOODSTOCK SCHOOL PADUMPUKHURI BLOCK 1, DIMAPUR

WANTED

Contact : 9856890799

Kohima 1) Collector - 1 no - Rs.7000.

2) Cook - 1 no - Salary Negotiable.

3) Salesman -2 nos - Rs.6000.

4) Saw Mill Labours - 3 nos - Rs.8000 with quarter.

Dimapur 5) Dispatch In-Charge - 1 no - Rs.7000.

6) Tata Mobile Driver - 1 no - Rs.6000 & Incentive with quarter.

7) Market Saleman - Rs.7000 with Incentive.

WhatsApp/SMS: 9362356292

LAND FOR SALE

LAND FOR SALE

OLD SHOWUBA 400 ft away from main road Area = 108x100 @Rs. 140 per sq. ft. # 9612259663

FOR SALE Land and a Assam Type House with four rooms at Naga United village Near Daily Market.

4500 sq. ft.

Contact No. : 9862086218 8794493450 DP-894

LAND FOR SALE

Contact : 9383205875

LAND FOR SALE

at Padumpukhuri Dimapur Area : 86,400 sq. ft.

Rs. 350 per sq. ft.

Negotiable No Filling Required

Contact No. : 9862128679 8014690505

No Brokers

1. Nagarjan 2. Padumpukhuri 3. Kushiabill Village 4. Ura Colony 5. United Village

DP-903

AFFIDAVIT I, Smt. Philomena Marak, aged 33 years, W/o Shri. Laxman Swamy, R/o H.No-50, Haralu Colony, Sector-2, Burma Camp, Dimapur, Nagaland have changed my name to ANJALI SWAMY for all future purposes vide Affidavit Dated 26-01-2019, Regd. No. 169/19 before Notary Pfukrulhi Khupfuh, Dimapur, Nagaland. DP-1060

at Kushiabill Near Withee Bible College Area : 5040 sq. ft.

(Road touched) 270 per sq. ft.

Mob : 9612587148

WANTED

B.Sc/M.Sc 1 Post to teach Science upto Class X (NBSE Syllabus)

DP-1042

Location : Kohima (FOR MIDDLE CLASSES) Free Accommodation HINDI GRADUATE 6909146146 NON-LOCAL

HINDI TEACHER

Contact : 8837250733

LAND FOR SALE

Near Hope Academy School, Dimapur Rs. 190 per sq. ft.

Contact : 9436407416

DP-1053

No. 9842 Yesterday’s solution No. 9841

Mumbai, Feb 23 (PTI): The rupee slipped from the day’s highest level but managed to eke out a marginal gain of 3 paise at 72.46 against the US dollar on Tuesday. At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened at 72.36 against the US dollar and witnessed an intra-day high of 72.31 and a low of 72.46.

It finally ended at 72.46 a dollar, registering a rise of 3 paise from its previous close. Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, advanced 0.16 per cent to 90.15.

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demand and consumption which is egging on industry players,” it said.

Around 49 per cent of the respondents have said that they will launch new verticals, whereas slightly over 12 per cent have suggested functional team reallocation.

The respondents are spread across numerous cities in India including DelhiNCR, Kolkata, the MMR, Bengalur u, Hyderabad, Chennai, among other.

“Although the pandemic has impacted the momentum of growth in the SME sector, the post-Covid era will see the emergence of new opportunities and business proliferation driven by a consistent restoration of business activities,” said Ankit Kansal, Founder & MD, 360 Realtors.

LAND FOR SALE (Ao Only)

Location : Indisen, Dimapur Price : 270 per sq. ft.

Area : Any size available * No filling required, plain area * Developed Land with Concrete Road * Concrete drainage and Retaining wall Contact : 7005227608 DP-181(B) 8787777148

LAND FOR SALE 1. PADUMPUKHURI Main Road Touched 2. AOYIMTI (1) 115 X 43 - Rs. 18.50 Lacs (2) 63 x 56 - Rs. 12.50 Lacs (3) 81 x 65 - Rs. 19.50 Lacs 3. PAGLA PHAAR @ Rs. 35 per sq. ft.

No brokers please Contact No : 9862954673

DP-989

Sudoku

New Delhi, Feb 23 (IANS): A majority of the small and medium enterprises (SME) in the country plan to expand their businesses going ahead as the economy revives, showed the SME Leasing & Business Sentiment Survey by 360 Realtors’ commercial division. In a statement, 360 Realtors noted that business activities are reviving amid increasing confidence in the overall economic outlook of India with the growth trajectory of the country expected to be in the range of 8-10 per cent in FY 22.

“Echoing this sentiment, a whopping 69 per cent of the respondents in the survey have demonstrated their plans to expand their business. As the economy is expected to expand, there will be significant growth in

DP-1049

Crossword

New Delhi, Feb 23 (PTI): Gold prices on Tuesday jumped by Rs 337 to Rs 46,372 per 10 grams reflecting overnight gains in global gold prices, according to HDFC Securities.

The price of the precious metal had closed at Rs 46,035 per 10 gram in the previous session on Monday. Silver also shoots up

by Rs 1,149 to Rs 69,667 per kg, compared with the previous close of Rs 68,518 per kg.

HDFC Securities Senior Analyst Tapan Patel said, “Spot gold prices for 24 karat gold at Delhi traded up by Rs 337 reflecting overnight gains in global gold prices.”

In the international market, gold was now trading stready at USD 1,808 an ounce, while silver was at USD 28.08 an ounce.

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all deserving recipients in Urban India with pucca houses by 2022, when the country celebrates 75 years of Independence.

Durga Shanker Mishra, secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), said, “Let’s get into the mode of implementation and execution.”

He urged the States/UTs to ensure 100% completion and delivery of PMAY-U houses to all its eligible beneficiaries within the Mission period. The participating States/UTs were also directed to use the online mechanism (MIS) for proper implementation and monitoring of the Mission.

In Lucknow, Ranchi, Rajkot, Agartala, Chennai and Indore, houses are being designed under the Light House Projects (LHPs).

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New Delhi, Feb 23 (Agencies): The government has approved the construction of 56,368 houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY-U) at 53rd Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee Meeting, the Finance Minister said.

It is suggested that these houses are designed under various verticals of the PMAY-U Mission.

More than 73 Lakh houses have been established to date, and almost 43 Lakh houses have been constructed, GoodReturns.in reported.

With the ‘Housing for All’ vision, the focus has been on speeding up the design, completion and distribution of houses across the country. MoHUA is committed to providing

to remain high and in order increase supply, it is critical to resolve this issue,” Vinod Kaul, executive director, All India Rice Exporters’ Association said.

In 2020, India’s farm exports rose by about 10 per cent.

The IBEF report highlighted that Indian agricultural, horticultural and processed foods are currently exported to more than 100 countries, chief among them being the Middle East, Southeast Asia, SAARC countries, the EU, and the US. India, which already supplies over 32 per cent of the global rice needs, witnessed an 80.4 per cent increase in exports of rice both basmati and non basmati during the April-December period of the current financial year touching 11.58 million tonnes.

Exports of non Basmati rice alone accounted for an increase of 129 per cent.

Besides, India has been exporting meat, sugar, dairy products, honey, pulses.

Dhansiri-Zubza railway line: Land owners serve ultimatum

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at 11.5 percent in 2021.

After a slow start to the year, public spending accelerated in the second half of 2020-21; disbursements picked up sharply to 29 percent in the December 2020 quarter over (-)12 percent in the September 2020 quarter.

It expects contribution from net exports to weaken as import growth declined to a small extent because of production restart as well as accelerated public investment push.

“Real GDP growth in 3QFY (4Q20) is seen at 1.3 percent versus (-)7.5 percent in the quarter before,” DBS

off in early 2021, causing the headline inflation to retreat from 6.9 percent in November to 4.1 percent in January this year.

Retail inflation averaged 6.6 percent during 2020 in India, above the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) target of 4 percent and upper threshold of the target at 6 percent.

“We also observe that supply-side disruptions that had caused a wide gulf between retail food and wholesale food during the height of the lockdown have since narrowed.

“Heading into FY22, while food inflation eases, core inflation is expected to prove sticky due to higher non-food forces via higher industrial commodity prices, bounce in global oil, domestic fuel tax rigidity...” said the report.

According to DBS, the RBI has a headroom to stick to its accommodative policy bias because of rebound in economic activity and the near-term pullback in inflation.

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cent in GDP in first and second quarters ended June and September 2020, respectively.

The unlocking saw domestic demand benefit from festive tailwinds, pent-up consumption and pick-up in capacity utilisation alongside resumption in sectoral activities, DBS Research said.

The Economic Survey 2020-21 has projected the economy to grow 11 percent in the next fiscal beginning April 1, a shade higher than the RBI’s projection of 10.5 percent. However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects India to grow

Research said.

Farm output will continue to add to growth, aided by firmer manufacturing output and among services, financial and public administration are likely to fare better than contact intensive activities like travel, airlines and tourism, it added.

“We peg 3QFY GVA (gross value added) estimate at 1.6 percent. Fullyear real GDP growth in FY21 is expected to register (-)6.8 percent, before cyclical tailwinds and base effects lift full-year FY22 to 10.5 percent, assuming a well-contained caseload and on-track vaccination programme,” it said.

Acknowledging the recent rise in virus cases in states such as Maharashtra and the precautionary measures deployed, DBS said vaccination is ongoing to meet the intended frontline needs before widening the outreach to people above 50 and with comorbidities.

On the inflation front, it said the previously elevated food inflation is tapering

“We need to address the issue of containers at the earliest especially as we focus on boosting exports on one hand and reducing imports on the other,” Ajay Sahai, director general, Federation of Indian Export Organisation told India Narrative.

Traffic at India’s major ports touched 704.82 million tonnes in 2019-20, a report by India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) said.

Amid the Coronavirus pandemic, India has turned into a major supplier of rice grain, meat and other agriculture produce globally. Shortage of containers, especially in the post Covid 19 era, has been causing delays in shipment of various goods.

“The issue of nonavailability of containers has been brought to the notice of the government.

As exports of rice has surged, the shortage of containers has proved to be a bid handicap. Going ahead, we expect global demand for rice from India

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New Delhi, Feb 23 (PTI): India’s GDP may turn positive at 1.3 percent in the third quarter of 202021, having witnessed contraction in the previous two quarters due to the coronavirus pandemic, as the number of cases is falling and public spending has started rising, according to a report.

The government will release the GDP numbers for the October-December quarter of the current fiscal on Friday.

Projecting that the gross domestic product (GDP) may have returned to the black in the last quarter of the calendar year 2020, DBS Bank in the report said the full-year growth in real terms may be at a negative 6.8 percent.

DBS Group Research economist Radhika Rao said sharp improvement in the COVID-19 situation and rising public spending are the two factors that bode well for December 2020 quarter.

India posted de-growth of 24 percent and 7.5 per-

New Delhi, Feb 23 (IANS): As India aims to boost its exports, the government is looking at manufacturing containers in a big way while developing a shipping line under the Atmanirbhar Bharat programme. Containers are required to ship goods.

At present, India is solely dependent on the public sector Shipping Corporation of India.

While the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has already set up a committee to study the feasibility of manufacturing containers at Bhavnagar in Gujarat, sources said that other such hubs are also being looked at.

Until now, most exporters have been relying primarily on Chinese containers.

But with geopolitical contours changing rapidly, shortage of containers has hit exporters, who have had bear the additional burden of freight cost hike. India has reduced its imports from China amid rising political tension.

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international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

protests against coup in Myanmar continue

FB to restore news services in Australia

which would have installed her government for a second five-year term in power.

However, the army blocked Parliament from convening and detained Suu Kyi and President Win Myint and other top members of her government.

The junta has said it will rule for a year under a state of emergency and then hold fresh elections.

There was a flurry of diplomatic activity abroad on Monday, as international concern about the situation remained high. The United States and several Western governments have called for the junta to refrain from violence, release detainees and restore Suu Kyi’s government. On Monday, the U.S. said it was imposing sanctions against more junta members because of the killings of peaceful protesters by security forces.

Lt. Gen. Moe Myint Tun and Gen. Maung Maung Kyaw add to other military leaders and entities facing U.S. sanctions, and Britain and Canada have taken similar action since the coup. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that the U.S. condemns the attacks on protesters, and vowed to take further action if more violence occurs.

MELBOURNE, FEB 22 (PTI): Social media giant Facebook on Tuesday said it will restore news services in Australia after it reached a revised agreement with the government on the proposed media bargaining laws, which aim to make technology companies pay for hosting news content.

The dispute on paying news organisations for sharing journalism content came to a head last week, when Facebook banned Australians from sharing news articles. Inadvertently, some government pages and announcements, including alerts on COVID19, were blocked too, drawing severe backlash.

The Australian government’s landmark media bargaining laws, also being called ‘the code’, is yet to be passed in its Parliament.

Australia government Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, who has held detailed discussions with Facebook Founder Mark Zuckerberg, on Tuesday said: “Facebook has re-friended Aus-

Candles lit at White House to honour 5L Covid deaths in US

Rockets fired at US Embassy in Baghdad

‘Extremely unlikely’ Covid-19 escaped from Wuhan lab: WHO mission member

YANGON, FEB 23 (AP): Protesters against the military’s seizure of power in Myanmar were back on the streets of the country’s biggest city on Tuesday, a day after a call for a general strike shuttered shops and brought huge numbers out to demonstrate.

Numbers were down from Monday’s massive crowds, but around 1,000 people in Yangon had gathered by mid-morning at the city’s Hledan Center, a major meeting point for protesters, with other groups assembling at other venues.

In Mandalay, the country’s second-biggest city, a funeral was held for 37year-old Thet Naing Win, one of two protesters shot dead by security forces on Saturday. He and a teenage boy were killed when police and soldiers opened fire on a crowd that had gathered to support dock workers whom the authorities were trying to force to work. They have been on strike, as have many civil servants and state enter-

Washington, Feb 23 (IANS): Candles were lit at the White House South Portico on the day which the number of Americans who died from Covid-19 broke the staggering record of 500,000. “That’s more lives lost to this virus than any other nation on Earth,” US President Joe Biden said as he led a moment of silence accompanied by his wife, Jill Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and the second gentleman, Douglas Emhoff, Xinhua news agency reported.

“But as we acknowledge the scale of this mass death in America, we remember each person and the life they lived,” said the President, per whose order earlier in the day flags on top of the presidential residence and on other federal

Anti-coup protesters display an image of protester who was shot and killed by Myanmar security forces in Yangon, Myanmar Tuesday. (PTI)

prise workers, as part of a nationwide civil obedience movement against the Feb. 1 military takeover.

The military says it took power because last November’s election was marked by widespread voting irregularities, an asser-

tion that was refuted by the state election commission, whose members have since been replaced by the ruling junta.

Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party won a landslide victory at the polls,

President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden, VP Kamala Harris, and Doug Emhoff observed a minute silence.

properties were lowered to half-mast.

Johns Hopkins University’s statistics showed that 500,176 American lives had been lost to Covid-19 as of 7.23 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday (0023 GMT, Tuesday), a toll far outnumbering

any nation in the world.

To put the number into perspective, about one in 670 Americans have died from the virus, of which a deadly consequence is that life expectancy in the country dropped one year to 77.8 years in the first six

months of 2020, according to a recent report by the National Center for Health Statistics. “As a nation, we can’t accept such a cruel fate,” Biden said.

Although the nation is not out of the woods yet, there are some silver linings: New cases, hospitalizations and deaths have all slowed in recent days, and vaccine distribution has gradually picked up pace. However, uncertainty about the emergence of new variants is still worrisome, and some of the new strains could be more contagious and potentially more lethal. “We will remember each person we’ve lost, the lives they lived, the loved ones they left behind.

We will get through this, I promise you,” Biden said before observing the moment of silence.

Bag h da d, F eb 2 3 (IANS): At least three rockets have been fired at the US Embassy in the heavily fortified Green Zone in Iraq’s capital Baghdad, the media reported citing security sources.

Out of the three rockets, one of them fell within the perimeter of the Green Zone while others landed in the surrounding residential neighbourhoods.

A military statement said there were no casualties and an investigation was underway. The rockets were launched from the Salam area of Baghdad, it said, The Daily Mail reported. No one has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Sydney, Feb 23 (IANS): It is “extremely unlikely” that SARS-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19, escaped from a lab in the Chinese city of Wuhan, a member of a World Health Organization (WHO) expert team sent to China on a Covid-19 origin-tracing mission said.

“The most politically sensitive option we looked at was the virus escaping from a laboratory,” said Professor Dominic Dwyer from University of Sydney in an article on The Conversation, a publisher of research-based news and analysis. “We concluded this was extremely unlikely”, he said, Xinhua news agency reported. The Wuhan Institute of Virology

In a statement, Facebook said it was ‘pleased’ to reach an agreement with the Australian government.

tralia. Australian news will be restored to the Facebook platform, and Facebook has committed to entering into good-faith negotiations with Australian news media businesses and seeking to reach agreements to pay for content.”

Frydenberg, quoting Zuckerberg, said Facebook will sign individual commercial deals with news publishers and that these

“is an impressive research facility, and looks to be run well, with due regard to staff health,” said Dwyer.

The professor said he has learned that blood samples of the scientists are routinely taken and stored, and “no evidence of antibodies to the coronavirus was found”.

A clinical epidemiology group inside the team, according to Dwyer, looked at a large number of relative data and information, and “found no clear evidence of substantial circulation of Covid-19 in Wuhan during the latter part of 2019 before the first case”. “We talked to our Chinese counterparts -- scientists, epidemiologists, doctors -- over

discussions “are pretty advanced with a number of (news) parties.”

Similar to Facebook, internet services heavyweight Google is also expected to follow the media bargaining code. Google and Facebook can avoid the code altogether, if they can satisfy the government that enough deals with news organisations have been struck outside it.

the four weeks the WHO mission was in China. We were in meetings with them for up to 15 hours a day, so we became colleagues, even friends,” Dwyer said.

“This allowed us to build respect and trust in a way you couldn’t necessarily do via Zoom or email,” he noted.

The Australian expert said the virus was most likely of animal origin but not necessarily at a wet market in Wuhan. “It probably crossed over to humans from bats, via an as-yet-unknown intermediary animal at an unknown location,” he said, adding that the experts “are still working to confirm the exact chain of events that led to the current pandemic.”

Sri Lanka State TV: Iran imposes curbs Nepal’s SC reinstates dissolved Afghanistan begins coronavirus vaccination orders 13.5 mn on UN nuclear inspections that “efforts are underway House of Representatives to cover 40 per cent of the

In this first round, Afghan security force members, journalists and doctors received the vaccine, TOLO news reported.

The first stage of the vaccination in Afghanistan will start with 500,000 doses, President Ghani said at the event, adding

Afghan peace talks resume, but path is uncertain

Islamabad, Feb 23 (AP): After more than a month of delays, escalating violence and a flurry of diplomatic activity, peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government have resumed in the Middle Eastern State of Qatar.

Taliban spokesman Dr. Mohammad Naeem tweeted on Monday night that talks had resumed.

There were no details other than the atmosphere was “cordial”, a commitment that negotiations should continue and an announcement that the first item of business will be setting the agenda.

When talks ended abruptly in January, just days after beginning, both sides submitted their wish lists for agendas. The task now is for the two sides to sift through the respective wish lists, agree on items to

negotiate and the order in which they will be tackled.

The priority for the A f g h a n g o ve r n m e n t , Washington and NATO is a serious reduction in violence leading to a cease fire. The Taliban have said it is negotiable, but until now have resisted any immediate cease fire.

Washington is reviewing the February 2020 peace deal the previous Trump administration signed with the Taliban that calls for the final withdrawal of international forces by May 1. The Taliban have resisted suggestions of even a brief extension, but a consensus is mounting in Washington for a delay in the withdrawal deadline.

There is even a suggestion of a smaller intelligence - based force staying behind that would focus almost exclusively on counter-terrorism and

an increasingly active and deadly Islamic State affiliate, headquartered in eastern Afghanistan.

But neither Washington nor NATO has yet to announce a decision on the fate of an estimated 10,000 troops, including 2,500 American soldiers, still in Afghanistan. The Biden administration has emphasized a political solution to the protracted Afghan conflict, retained Zalmay Khalilzad, the man who negotiated the U.S. peace deal with the Taliban and until now avoided any definitive statements about the road forward.

The resumption in talks in Doha follows on the heels of a blizzard of diplomatic activity including a steady stream of officials to Pakistan and its powerful Army Chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Pakistan is seen as criti-

cal to getting the Taliban back to the table but also to pressing the insurgent movement __ whose leadership is headquartered in Pakistan __ to reduce violence in Afghanistan.

Just this past week, the U.S. Central Command head Gen. Kenneth F. McKenzie was in Islamabad, as was Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Afghan envoy, Zamir Kabulov and Qatar’s foreign ministry’s special envoy Dr Mutlaq Bin Majed Al Qahtani. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani’s special envoy Umar Daudzai is expected in Islamabad on Wednesday.

While details of the meetings have been sketchy, Afghanistan featured prominently and officials familiar with the talks said a reduction of violence and eventual cease fire dominated discussions.

OFFICE OF THE

KASHANYU STUDENTS' UNION FELICITATION

With immense pride and joy, the Kashanyu Students' Union extends our heartfelt congratulations to Er. Tesinlo Semy on his recent promotion to the post of Joint Director in the Department of Geology and Mining, Govt. of Nagaland.

The Union further prays that the Almighty God grant him good health and wishes him more success in his endeavours.

(Asa Tep) President, KSU

(Shosin Tep) General Secretary, KSU

OFFICE OF THE

the IAEA reached as part of the landmark nuclear accord that grants the UN inspectors enhanced powers to visit nuclear facilities and watch Iran’s program.

It remains unclear exactly how access will be limited. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said the IAEA would be blocked from accessing its network of surveillance cameras at nuclear sites.

The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, Tehran’s civilian nuclear agency, has promised to keep the footage for three months, then hand it over to the IAEA — but only if granted sanctions relief.

FELICITATION With extreme pride and honour, we the Students' Union Asukhuto Town convey our jubilant commendation to Dr. Vivikali Najekhu Yeptho, D/o Lt. Rev. Najekhu Yeptho and Mrs. Kitoli Naje on successfully completing her "Ph.D" in 'Practical Theology' and an Academic Awardee from Korea Christian University, Seoul, South Korea .

The Union further wish her, best in all her future ventures.

ZHIMOTO ZHIMO (President)

IUTO AWOMI (General. Secy)

OFFICE OF THE

SAPOTIMI KUGHUKO UNION DIMAPUR FELICITATION

HIGHWAY AREA SUMI STUDENTS’ UNION

The Sapotimi Kughuko Union Dimapur, through this column, would like to congratulate Shri. IHOTO ACHUMI for being promoted to the post of Inspector, Secretariat Special Pool.

We extend our appreciation and best wishes as he continues to serve the Department with utmost sincerity.

Sd/VITOHO CHOPHY President, SKUD

Tehran (Iran), Feb 23 (AP): Iran officially has begun restricting international inspections of its nuclear facilities, state TV reported Tuesday, a bid to pressure European countries and US President Joe Biden’s administration to lift economic sanctions and restore the 2015 nuclear deal. The state TV report gave little detail beyond confirming that Iran had made good on its threat to reduce cooperation with International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors.

Iran has said it plans to cease its implementation of the “Additional Protocol,” a confidential agreement between Tehran and

Motto : “ Integrity with progress” Dimapur : Nagaland

FELICITATION

The Highway Area Sumi Students’ Union conveys our warm and hearty congratulations to Mr. Kughato Achumi, the newly elected President of Western Sumi Students’ Union and his team for the tenure 2021-2023.

The Union extend best wishes and support in their future endeavours.

Sd/IKATO Y KIHO Asstt. General Secretary, SKUD

Kitoka Sumi President Highway Area Sumi Students' Union

Mughato Aye General Seceraty Highway Area Sumi Students' Union

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Kabul, Feb 23 (IANS): Afghanistan officially launched its coronavirus vaccination program on Tuesday at an event held at the Presidential Palace.

President Ashraf Ghani participated, along with officials from the Health Ministry and elsewhere.

AstraZeneca doses

C O LO M B O, F E B 2 3 (PTI): Sri Lanka has ordered 13.5 million Oxford AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccines in addition to the 500,000 doses gifted

by India, and the country may not use Chinese vaccines in the second phase of immunisation, a government spokesman said on Tuesday.

Ramesh Pathirana, who is also the Minister of Plantations, said Sri Lanka is likely to go only with the AstraZeneca vaccines for the second phase of vaccination as the Chinese and Russian vaccines are not ready yet.

“The Chinese vaccine has not submitted the papers relating to phase three trials,” said Pathirana.

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Afghan security personnel receive India’s AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine from health officials. (PTI)

population in the second round.”

Recently, Afghanistan received 500,000 doses of AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine from India. The vaccines were produced by the Serum Institute of India.

Afghanistan has had 55,646 reported Covid-19 cases and 2,435 deaths from the disease, according to the health ministry.

Previously, the Afghan health officials said that the government wants to vaccinate 20 per cent of the country’s population within the next six months, and donor countries and organisations have pledged $112 million.

So far, Covid vaccines have been implemented in at least 50 countries.

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tion of Prime Minister Oli, amidst a tussle for power within the ruling party.

Oli’s move to dissolve the House sparked protests from a large section of the Nepal Communist Party led by his rival Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, also a co-chair of the ruling party.

Oli repeatedly defended his move to dissolve the House of Representatives, saying some leaders of his party were attempting to form a “parallel government”.

As many as 13 writ petitions including the one by the ruling Nepal Communist Party’s Chief Whip Dev Prasad Gurung were filed at the apex court seeking the restoration of the lower house parliament.

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Kathmandu, Feb 23 (PTI): Nepal’s Supreme Court on Tuesday reinstated the dissolved House of Representatives, in a setback to embattled Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli who was preparing for snap polls.

A five-member Constitutional bench led by Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher JBR annulled the government’s decision to dissolve the 275-member lower house of parliament and ordered the government to summon the House session within the next 13 days.

Nepal plunged into a political crisis on December 20 after President Bidya Dev Bhandari dissolved the House of Representatives at the recommenda-

Infotainment

10

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

NASA releases Mars landing video Nagaland’s Trance Effect wins best album/EP of the year at IMDA 2021 N T

Images from video by NASA shows steps in the descent of the Mars Perseverance rover as it approaches the surface of the planet. (AP/PTI)

shared the video at a news conference.

“These videos and these images are the stuff of our dreams,” said Al Chen, who was in charge of the landing team.

Six off-the-shelf color cameras were devoted to entry, descent and landing, looking up and down from different perspec-

tives. All but one camera worked. The lone microphone turned on for landing failed, but NASA got some snippets of sound after touchdown: the whirring of the rover’s systems and wind gusts.

Flight controllers were thrilled with the thousands of images beamed back — and also with the remark-

ably good condition of NASA’s biggest and most capable rover yet.

It will spend the next two years exploring the dry river delta and drilling into rocks that may hold evidence of life 3 billion to 4 billion years ago. The core samples will be set aside for return to Earth in a decade.

NASA added 25 cameras to the USD 3 billion mission — the most ever sent to Mars. The space agency’s previous rover, 2012’s Curiosity, managed only jerky, grainy stopmotion images, mostly of terrain. Curiosity is still working. So is NASA’s InSight lander, although it’s hampered by dusty solar panels.

They may have company in late spring, when China attempts to land its own rover, which went into orbit around Mars two weeks ago.

Deputy project manager Matt Wallace said he

was inspired several years ago to film Perseverance’s harrowing descent when his young gymnast daughter wore a camera while performing a backflip.

Some of the spacecraft systems — like the sky crane used to lower the rover onto the Martian surface — could not be tested on Earth.

“So this is the first time we’ve had a chance as engineers to actually see what we designed,” Wallace told reporters.

Thomas Zurbuchen, NASA’s science mission chief, said the video and also the panoramic views following touchdown “are the closest you can get to landing on Mars without putting on a pressure suit.”

The images will help NASA prepare for astronaut flights to Mars in the decades ahead, according to the engineers. There’s a more immediate benefit.

(AP)

Robbie Williams biopic in the works

A

Robbie Williams biopic is in the works.’The Greatest Showman’ director Michael Gracey is set to helm ‘Better Man’, a coming of age about Robbie’s unlikely rise to stardom.

The flick will tell the story of Williams’ ascent to fame, exploring t h e

experiences that made him who he is and the demons he battled on and off stage as he became a huge star on the back of hits with Take That and solo success.

Michael has penned the script for the project with Oliver Cole and Simon Gleeson. He is also producing with Jules Daly and Craig McMahon with production slated to begin this summer. Robbie’s hit songs are part of the film’s package.

Gracey revealed that the movie came about after hours of conversations with Robbie although he remained tight-lipped on how the singer would be represented on the big screen.

The filmmaker told Deadline: “As for how we represent Robbie in the film, that bit is top secret.

“I want to do this in a really original way. I remember going to the cinema as a kid and there were films that blew me away and made me say as I sat there in the cinema,’ I’ve never seen this before.’

I just want the audience to have

that feeling.

“All I can say is that the approach is top secret, but the goal is to generate that feeling I just described. It’s this fantastical story, and I want to represent it in its harsh reality all the way to these moments of pure fantasy.”

Robbie first became famous as a teenager in Take That but after quitting the boy band in 1995 his career really soared as a solo artist with hits such as ‘Angels’, ‘Rock DJ’ and ‘Let Me Entertain You’ and Michael is keen to chronicle the story of an “everyman”.

He explained: “Unlike some people who were born prodigies or musical geniuses and you follow the narrative of the world catching up to their brilliance, this isn’t that story.

“Robbie is that everyman, who just dreamed big and followed those dreams and they took him to an incredible place. Because of that, his is an incredibly relatable story. He’s not the best singer, or dancer, and yet, he managed to sell 80 million records worldwide.”

(Contactmusic)

Aerosmith push back UK, European tour until 2022

A

erosmith have delayed their UK and European tour until 2022.Steven Tyler and co have postponed the shows for a second time, having already rescheduled the 2020 dates for this summer, due to COVID-19 The ‘Dream On’ rockers have decided to reschedule the concerts for June and July 2022 to ensure the safety of their fans.

All tickets already pur-

chased will be valid for the new dates.

The band said in a statement: “Due to current conditions and for the safety of our fans, the 2021 European Tour has been rescheduled to 2022.

“Please stay tuned for more information regarding the new dates or contact your point of purchase. All tickets will be valid for new dates.”

The UK leg will now

see the rock legends play London’s The O2 on June 22, 2022, Manchester Arena on June 28, and the FlyDSA Arena in Sheffield on July 1.

The upcoming run follows their ‘Deuces Are Wild’ Las Vegas residency.

The ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’ rockers last played this side of the pond in 2017, when they headlined Download Festival, in what was then-assumed to be their last-ever UK show.

Meanwhile, guitarist Joe Perry previously said he’d like to record a new album with Aerosmith “when the time is right”.

The 70-year-old musician said he was feeling inspired to make new music with the group - also including Joey Kramer, Brad Whitford and Tom Hamilton - after his time in the studio with his Hollywood Vampires’ bandmates Alice Cooper and Johnny Depp working on their 2019 LP ‘Rise’.

He said at the time: “I had just finished working on my last solo album [before the new Hollywood Vampires album], so I had been in the studio for the three or four months before we started on the Vampires record.

“So I was already rolling in the studio. It doesn’t take much to get me going -- I love to record. So, when the time is right, Aerosmith will come around to do another record.”

Aerosmith’s last studio album was 2012’s ‘Music from Another Dimension!’.

(Contactmusic)

'Bhoot Police' to hit theatres on Sep 10

T

he horror-comedy film Bhoot Police will release in theatres on September 10. The film stars Saif Ali Khan, Yami Gautam, Jacqueline Fernandez and Arjun Kapoor.

"SAIF - ARJUN: #BHOOTPOLICE ARRIVES ON 10 SEPT 2021 + TEASER POSTER... #BhootPolice - the horrorcomedy starring #SaifAliKhan, #ArjunKapoor, #JacquelineFernandez and #YamiGautam - to release in cinemas on 10 Sept 2021... Directed by Pavan Kirpalani," trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted on Tuesday.

Shoot for the film began in last November and was completed by February 5. The film has been shot across Himachal Pradesh, Mumbai and Rajasthan's Jaisalmer.

The horror-comedy film has been directed by Pavan Kirpalani, who earlier made Ragini MMS and Phobia.

(IANS)

John Abraham, Emraan Hashmi-starrer ‘Mumbai Saga’ to release on Mar 19

T

he John Abraham and Emraan Hashmi starrer Mumbai Saga was on Tuesday confirmed for theatrical release on March 19. The Sanjay Gupta directorial film boasts of an ensemble cast including Suniel Shetty, Mahesh Manjrekar, Kajal Aggarwal, Rohit Roy, Gulshan Grover, and PrateikBabbar.

"JOHN ABRAHAM - EMRAAN HASHMI: #MUMBAISAGA RELEASE DATE + TEASER TOMORROW... #MumbaiSaga - which teams #JohnAbraham and #EmraanHashmi for the first time - to release in cinemas on 19 March 2021... The gangster drama is set in 1980s and 1990s... Directed by Sanjay Gupta," trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted the news. "#MumbaiSagacostars #KajalAgK Y M C

garwal, #SunielShetty, #MaheshManjrekar, #PrateikBabbar, #GulshanGrover, #RohitRoy and #AmoleGupte... Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Anuradha Gupta and Sangeeta Ahir," he added. From the very beginning, director Gupta had maintained that his film would have a theatrical release. "#MUMBAISAGA: We are in the thick of final edits, VFX, BGM, SFX, DI Grading & final sound mixing. Everyday with every moment my team & I feel only one common emotion... MUMBAI SAGA BELONGS TO THE THEATRES. It's been solely & single heartedly made for the big screen experience," the filmmaker had expressed on Twitter in November.

(IANS)

rance Effect, an indie pop rock band from Nagaland won the best EP/album of the year (Editor’s Choice) for their EP titled “Clowns” in the Indian Music Diaries Awards (IMDA) 2021.

Trance Effect band consists of Iuli Yeptho (vocal), Sosang Lkr (drums), Tako Chang (guitar), Temsujungba Jamir (guitar) and Imnamaong Imchen (bass).

Formed in late 2017, the band was formed by the bassist Imnamaong Imchen who got the idea to get together a select group of musicians.

About the EP, the band commented, "When we were creating the EP, the concept of “Time Travel” struck our minds when we realized that the track “Clowns” first verse carries a distinct meaning which could be the torch bearer of our EP”.

“If only I could travel,

travel through time”. In the illustration of the track “New Beginning”, Iuli (the band's vocalist) can be seen entering a Time Machine and the destination set to the carnival which serves as the main venue of the EP cover.

The EP comprising of five tracks which opens with an instrumental track named “Of Time Machine and Never Ending Stories”, followed by “Clowns”, “Took me a while”, “Favorite Mistake” and concludes

with “More Love”.

Popular Indian music composer and guitarist Ehsaan Noorani also commented, “well deserving” Trance effect is a great band on the official Instagram page of The Indian music Diaries.

The other nominated band/artist for the categories were: Bombay Brass-Bombay brass, T.ill Apes-Lift off, Diarchy Splitfire, Hoirong - Hope & Light and Sameer Rahat – Aamad.

Amazon Prime India chief records statement on ‘Tandav’

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parna Purohit, the countr y head of Amazon Prime that streamed controversial web series “Tandav”, recorded her statement at the Hazratganj police station here on Tuesday afternoon.

Purohit got her statement recorded on the directives of the Allahabad High Court.

A case had been filed

by Additional Inspector, Hazratganj, Amarnath Verma, regarding the web series on January 18 against Purohit, “Tandav” director Ali Abbas, producer Himanshu Krishna Mehar and writer Gaurav Solanki.

According to sources, the Lucknow police had prepared a list of about 100 questions for Purohit, who was questioned in a closed

room. Her lawyers were also with her.

“Tandav” led to protests across the country over some objectionable scenes.

Besides Lucknow, an FIR was registered in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Buddha Nagar against Purohit and others under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

(IANS)

Being lonely ups risk of Internet addiction: Study

L

oneliness has become increasingly prevalent among adolescents, who spend longer and longer periods of time online, says a new study.

“In the coronavirus period, loneliness has increased markedly among adolescents. They look for a sense of belonging from the Internet. Lonely adolescents head to the Internet and are at risk of becoming addicted,” said researcher Katariina Salmela-Aro from the University of Helsinki.

According to the researchers, adolescents’ net use is a two-edged sword -- while the consequences of moderate use are positive, the effects of compulsive use can be detrimental. Compulsive use denotes, among other things, gaming addiction or the constant monitoring of likes on social media and comparisons to others.

For the study, published in the journal Child Development, the team involved a total of 1,750 participants to investigate detrimental Internet use by adolescents.

The subjects were studied at three points in time -- at 16,

17 and 18 years of age.

The risk of being drawn into problematic Internet use was at its highest among 16year-old adolescents, with the phenomenon being more common among boys.

For some, the problem persists into adulthood, but for others it eases up as they grow older, the researchers said.

(IANS) OFFICE OF THE

WESTERN SUMI STUDENTS' UNION FELICITATION

Western Sumi Students' Union convey its heartiest congratulations to Shri. Atoka Achumi, S/o Shri. L.K.Achumi on being promoted to the post of Chief Judicial Magistrate and posted as Joint Registrar, Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench.

The Union wish his immense success in his future endeavours.

(A. KUGHATO ACHUMI) President, WSSU

DP-1061

ASA on Monday released the first high-quality video of a spacecraft landing on Mars, a three-minute trailer showing the enormous orange and white parachute hurtling open and the red dust kicking up as rocket engines lowered the rover to the surface.

The footage was so good — and the images so breathtaking — that members of the rover team said they felt like they were riding along.

“It gives me goose bumps every time I see it, just amazing,” said Dave Gruel, head of the entry and descent camera team.

The Perseverance rover landed last Thursday near an ancient river delta in Jezero Crater to search for signs of ancient microscopic life. After spending the weekend bingewatching the descent and landing video, the team at Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California,

(IUTO V. SWU) Information & Publicity, WSSU

FELICITATION

Dr. Nungothung Z. Odyuo Rev. Nzanbemo Lotha The office of the DIMAPUR NKONJAN SELUKU YAMO KHUMSHUM (DNSYK) take immense pride and honour in congratulating Rev. Nzanbemo Lotha, S/o Rentsanthung Kikon for being ordained as Reverend by LBCA and Dr. Nungothung Z. Odyuo, S/o Zubenthung Odyuo for successfully completing B.DS from Himachal Institute of Dental Sciences (H.P). The Khumshum further extend best wishes and pray that Almighty God bless them with good health and wisdom in all their future endeavours.

(Treasurer, DNSYK) (Secretary, DNSYK) DP-1048 K Y M C

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sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

Kashmir beat Aizawl to top I-League Ronaldo scores twice in Juventus win

Real Kashmir FC top the table with 17 points.

del with their possessionheavy style of football from the opening minutes.

In the eighth minute, Real Kashmir goalkeeper Mithun Samanta was forced to make his first save of the match when Ramhlunchhunga sent a powerful shot. But it was to no avail as Samanta kept the shot out.

The Snow Leopards, boasting one of the best defences in the league so far, relied on counter-attack and direct football. That almost paid dividends for

them in the 14th minute when midfielder Farhan Gani sent Dipanda Dicka on to the goal. But Dicka’s effort was cut short by a crunching Lalchungnunga tackle.

A defensive error in the 26th minute saw the Snow Leopards citadel crumble while giving Aizawl FC the lead.

A goal-kick by Aizawl FC’s custodian was misjudged by Mason Robertson and the ball bounced over him as it caught Pawan Kumar in an awkward po-

sition. It ultimately led to Lalremsanga picking up the pieces and slotting it past a hapless Samanta.

Real Kashmir trailed only eight minutes and in the 34th minute, Robertson made amends. With the Aizawl FC defence switched off, Robertson’s long throw-in from the left flank found Lukman Adefemi, who unleashed a header from close range to restore parity.

The Snow Leopards were given a golden opportunity to surge into the lead when Lukman Adefemi’s header off a Robertson cross forced the opposition goalkeeper to make a save.

The rebound, however, found Dicka inside the box, but with the goalkeeper out of his line and no real covering at goal, Dicka skied his shot from close range as Aizawl survived.

Yan Law’s Aizawl were not so lucky in the 56th minute. Pratesh Shirdokar’s free-kick from a distance

Lakers suffer third successive loss

Lo n d o n, F e b 2 3 (Agencies): The Los Angeles Lakers let a 17point third-quarter lead slip as they fell to a 127124 overtime defeat to the Washington Wizards.

The reversal means that the NBA champions have lost three games in a row for the first time this season, BBC reported.

Both LeBron James and Kyle Kuzma missed late three-point attempts to send the game to a second extra period.

Bradley Beal scored 33 points as the Wizards claimed five wins in a row for the first time in three years. Russell Westbrook, who had 32 points, plus 14

Westbrook scored the game-winning points for Washington.

rebounds and nine assists, made a shot inside and was fouled with 11.6 seconds remaining in overtime to put the Wizards up by three points. Although he missed the free throw which gave the Lakers the chance to tie

the score, they were unable to make the shot.

James finished with 31 points, 13 assists and nine rebounds while Montrezl Harrell added 26 off the bench Elsewhere, Donovan Mitchell finished with

13-member India squad to vie for medals at shotgun World Cup New Delhi, Feb 23 (IANS): A 13-member Indian squad will travel to Cairo, Egypt for a shotgun World Cup that starts on February 24. It is the first World Cup event which the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) is organising after nearly a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

As many as 191 athletes from 33 nations have entered the fray for the men’s and women’s skeet World Cup. The athletes will be vying for medals in the 10 events scheduled over eight competition days, beginning with the men’s and women’s skeet shooting competitions on Wednesday. The Cairo World Cup assumes additional significance given this will be the final chance for shooters to qualify for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics on the basis of World Ranking points.

For example, the current world number one in men’s Trap, Mauro De Filippis of Italy, still does not have an

Angad Vir Singh Bajwa and Mairaj Ahmad Khan.

Olympic berth and will be looking to hold on to his ranking points with a good show to confirm his quota.

The Indian men’s skeet squad has Tokyo Olympics quota holders Angad Bajwa and Mairaj Ahmad Khan. Gurjoat Khangura completes the three-man squad. The women’s skeet squad features Ganemat Shekhon, Parinaaz Dhaliwal and Karttiki Singh Shaktawat. The first final will be in the women’s skeet event and is scheduled for February 25. It will be fol-

lowed by the men’s skeet final on the same day.

“It’s the first competition after more than a year and taking it like match practice before the Olympics as it’s much needed to get back into the rhythm,” said skeet finals world record holder Bajwa.

“This is the first World Cup of the year and assumes importance after the lockdown because it should give us a good start to the calendar 2021,” said shotgun head coach Mansher Singh.

Inter-deptt. sports meet in Bhandari

23 points and eight assists and three of his Utah Jazz team-mates scored at least 20 points each off the bench as their side beat the Charlotte Hornets 132-110.

The Miami Heat defeated Oklahoma City Thunder 108-94 while Devin Booker hit 32 points as the Phoenix Suns were comfortable 132-100 winners over the Portland Trail Blazers After an eight-day rest because of two weatherbased postponements, the Dallas Mavericks beat the Memphis Grizzlies 102-92 while the Chicago Bulls were too strong for an under strength Houston Rockets, winning 120-100.

India’s football team to face UAE, Oman in March

New Delhi, Feb 23 (IANS): India’s men’s football team will play two international friendlies in March against Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in what will be their first assignment since November 2019, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) said on Tuesday. The matches will be played in Dubai with India facing Oman on March 25 and the UAE on March 29. A preparatory camp for the two games will be held in Dubai from March 15 under head coach Igor Stimac.

India’s last match ended in a 1-0 defeat to Oman in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier on November 19, 2019. While they were scheduled to resume their World Cup qualification campaign with a match against Qatar in March, it was eventually postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The qualifiers are now scheduled to resume in June with India facing Qatar on June 3, Bangladesh on June 11 and Afghanistan on June 15.

found Robertson in the box and his free header found the bottom-right corner to hand Real Kashmir the lead.

In the 68th minute, Robertson’s long throw-in once again found Lukman Adefemi inside the box in almost a replay of the first goal. However, this time, the Aizawl FC goalkeeper heroically saved Adefemi’s header to deny him from close range.

Scotsman Robertson was not done with the action, however. In the 72nd minute, he stood tall over a free-kick from 30 yards out and curled it into the back of the net to make it 3-1.

Though Aizawl FC tried to make a comeback, the lead proved to be unassailable for Yan Law’s side.

With the loss, Aizawl FC sit on 12 points from nine matches and could find themselves in the bottom half of the table before the round ends.

Amodini, Amarnath in AITA U-18 finals

Bengaluru, Feb 23 (IANS): Amodini Vijay Nayak entered the title round in the girls’ category of the under-18 AITA Championship Series here on Tuesday.

The 14-year-old eighth seed overcame seventh seed Gagana Mohankumar 9-5 in semifinals to set up a summit clash with Siri Patil who beat Disha Behera 9-6 in the other semifinal match.

Fifth seed Adith Amarnath upset top seed Ravi Ninaad 9-5 and will take on Mandeep Reddy in the finals. Mandeep was leading 3-1 against Tarun Vetrivelan when the latter conceded the match.

Ronaldo scored both his and Juventus’ second goal with another header just before half time.

Lo n d o n, F e b 2 3 (Agencies): Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Juventus strolled to a 3-0 home win over bottom side Crotone in Serie A on Monday, with the victory taking the champions up to third in the standings. Juve were slow to get going, but their everreliable talisman arrived to meet an Alex Sandro cross in the 38th minute to give Andrea Pirlo’s side the lead, Dailymail reported.

The Portugal forward looked hungry for more and another bullet header in first-half stoppage time doubled the lead, taking him back to the top of the league’s scoring charts on 18 goals, one ahead of Inter Milan’s Romelu Lukaku.

The 36-year-old Ronaldo had chances to complete a hat-trick but it was Weston McKennie who added the

third. The American midfielder hammered home his fourth Serie A goal of the season in the 66th minute.

A first win in four matches in all competitions ensured Juve climbed from sixth to third in the table.

They moved onto 45 points, eight behind leaders Inter, who beat rivals AC Milan on Sunday afternoon, with a game in hand.

“The desire we have to return to the top makes me feel comfortable,” Pirlo said at full time.

“When we have more players free from injury I will have more choice and this also makes me feel comfortable. We know that Inter are a great team and we know we have to fight (to win the title).” Crotone remain rooted to the foot of the table with 12 points from 23 games, eight points

from the safety zone. Aaron Ramsey thought he had given Juve the lead with a looping header only to see the ball hit the bar before Ronaldo showed him how it is done with two expertlytaken headers.

Ronaldo’s goals mean Crotone are the 78th different team he has scored against in Europe’s top five leagues. Only Zlatan Ibrahimovic has scored against more sides since 2000.

A glaring miss at the end of the half showed Ronaldo is only human, before two fine saves by Alex Cordaz after the break denied the Portuguese another hat-trick. McKennie’s closerange finish put the game beyond doubt, but leagueleading scorer Ronaldo tried everything he could until the last minute to add more to his tally.

Atoizu area GB Hoho Trophy underway

DIMAPUR, FEB 23 (NPN): A five-day long, 3rd Atoizu Area GB Hoho Trophy commenced on Tuesday at Atoizu town.

The inaugural programme was graced by Er. Picto Shohe MLA as special guest. 26

teams will be taking part in men’s football & volleyball and women’s volleyball. Earlier, the programme was blessed by ATBC pastor, Rev.Vikuto with bible reading and prayers.

Mustafizur Rahman ready to sacrifice IPL for national duty Dhaka, Feb 23 (PTI): A “patriotic” Mustafizur Rahman on Tuesday said he is willing to skip the upcoming Indian Premier League for national duty and be available for next month’s Test series against Sri Lanka if picked in the squad.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has allowed its players, including Mustafizur, to participate in the IPL despite the fact that the lucrative T20 league is likely to clash with their internationals assignments.

But the left-arm pacer, who was picked up by Rajasthan Royals for Rs 1 crore, has decided to give precedence to national duty.

“I will do what BCB asks me to do. If they keep me in Test squad (for the tour of Sri Lanka) then I will play Tests and if they (BCB) don’t keep me in Test then they know what I should do,” Mustafizur told reporters before leav-

Mustafizur Rahman

DP-1059

Ko lkata , F e b 2 3 (PTI): Mason Robertson’s fine brace helped a dominant Real Kashmir FC beat Aizawl FC 3-1 and jump to the top of the I-League table at the VYBK Stadium here on Tuesday.

After a defensive error had given Aizawl FC the lead through Lalremsanga in the 26th minute, Lukman Adefemi’s strike in the first half and a double

by Robertson in the second powered the Snow Leopards to a thumping win.

With the win, Real Kashmir FC extended their unbeaten streak to nine games and could remain on top of the I-League table, if Churchill Brothers drop points against NEROCA on Wednesday.

In what was a cagey first half between the two sides, it took two moments of defensive errors from either team to let the other score. However, it was Aizawl who tried to breach the Real Kashmir FC cita-

ing for New Zealand.

“My first priority is to play for my country and if I am picked in the Test series against Sri Lanka, I will naturally play. If I am not picked then BCB will tell me that I am not included. At that point, if I am given NOC to play in the IPL then I will play but patriotism comes first for me.”

The BCB has already given NOC to all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who will turn out for Kolkata Knight Riders in the upcoming IPL, and is awaiting for Mustafizur to apply for permission.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

3rd DEATH ANNIVERSARY of our beloved

Late Y. Imtijungshi Phom Yaongyimchen Village, Longleng District 24-02-2018

D i m ap u r , F e b 2 3 (NPN): The third edition of Bhandari Inter-Departmental Sports Meet, 2021 in support of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) commenced on Tuesday at local ground, Bhandari, with ADC, Bhandari Tiameren Chang as special guest.

K Y M C

According to DIPR, the special guest in his speech called upon the players to exhibit and promote discipline, friendship and team spirit through their participation and to encourage one another to bring out their best. Bhandari Eloe Hoho presented the BBBP

theme song. The inaugural programme was followed by a football exhibition match between MLA XI and ADC XI where MLA XI team won 2-1. Around 21 departments under Bhandari Sub-division divided into eight teams are taking part in the meet.

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MLA XI and ADC XI before the exhibition match at Bhandari. (DIPR)

Dear Ava/Daddy, Today's the 3rd Anniversary of the day you left us so suddenly. The pain of losing you can never be comprehended. And we never imagined or knew how our life will move on without you but all these years God has never forsaken us.

The fulcrum and treasure of life you taught us and the struggle and courage that you have set is what keeps us going even today. Indeed you were and will always be our real superhero and inspiration in our everyday life.

We miss you everyday.

From loving wife, sons & daughters.

We, the bereaved family members of Late Mezivil Sophie, would like express our sincerest gratitude to all who stood by us spiritually, physically, financially and materially during his brief illness and demise on 21/02/2021.

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

Special thanks to:1. Signal Angami Baptist Church 2. Signal Angami Village Council 3. Airport Authority of India Dimapur and staff 4. Doctors, nurses and staff, Zion Hospital & Research Centre, Dimapur 5. Blood donors 6. Friends, families and well wishers DP-1052

Loving children and family members K Y M C

12

sports

Equestrian K. Rio feted by YRS

Er. Zale Neikha, Kekhriesilie Rio and others at the felicitation programme at Kohima on Tuesday. (NP) Correspondent

Kohima, Feb 23 (NPN): Kekhriesilie Rio, who recently won the Federation Equestrian International (FEI) World Jumping competition at national equestrian championship (senior) in Delhi 2021, was feted by Directorate of Youth Resources & Sports (YRS), Kohima on Tuesday.

Rio has also been ranked World No.2 in the world in (Category A) in equestrian show jumping, according to the rankings released by the FEI for 2020, making him the first

Indian to achieve highest rank in the annual list.

He will be participating in the Asian Games 2022 trial in Germany soon.

Advisor Youth Resources and Sports Er. Zale Neikha while congratulating Kekhriesilie Rio for winning in various categories, encouraged him to work harder and to bring more laurels to the State and nation.

He said K. Rio was the first Indian to achieve the highest rank till date.

He mentioned that there are only two Olympians in Nagaland so far - Dr.

T. Ao and Chekhrovolü, and encouraged the young achiever to aim to participate in the Olympics.

Advisor, Sericulture, Excise and Minority Affairs, Zhaleo Rio who is also the president of the Equestrian Association Nagaland and father of Kekhriesilie Rio, hoped that the achievement of Kekhriesilie Rio will help in promotion of Equestrian activities in the State.

He said that Nagas have the potential in the field of sports but do not get the right platform and appreciation, and even at the national level. He further

ISL: NorthEast beat East Bengal 2-1; keeps play-off hopes alive

Mohammed Rafique of SC East Bengal and Dylan James Fox of NorthEast United FC fight for ball at the Fatorda Stadium, Goa, Tuesday’. (PTI)

New Delhi, Feb 23 (Agencies): NorthEast United FC brightened its chances of making it to the play-offs when it downed a 10-man East Bengal 2-1 at the Indian Super League at the Fatorda Stadium on Tuesday. After a barren opening half, V.P. Suhair gave NorthEast the lead scoring his first goal of the ISL. East Bengal defender Sarthak Golui scored an own goal to double NorthEast’s lead and later scored one on the other end to pull one back for his side.

NorthEastfound the lead in the 48th minute when wing-half Imran Khan played a nice through pass to find Suhair inside the box. The forward produced a nice finish as he shielded his marker, took a half turn and sent an angular left-footer into the East Bengal net. With the deadlock broken NorthEast doubled the lead in the 55th minute when NimDorjee delivered a cross on the East Bengal goalmouth just to see Golui miscuing an attempted clearance into his

own goal. East Bengal suffered another blow in the 71st minute when defender Raju Gaikwad was sent off for his second booking of the match. Golui redeemed his mistake in the 87th minute nodding home a Surchandra Singh free-kick but his effort came a bit too late.

The team tallied 30 points from 19 matches and just needs a point in its final outing against Kerala blasters to secure a play-off qualification for the second time in the ISL history.

added that young Naga athletes and sportspersons were not getting much support, and to this, he hoped that in the future, there will be more sponsors for promotion.

Zhaleo also lamented that even the young cricketer Khrievitso Kense did not have any buyer despite of being a good performer and said such were the treatment of mainland India towards the Nagas.

He therefore appealed to the state government to be more appreciative and encourage towards the young upcoming sports persons.

Kekhriesilie Rio in his brief address stated that being the lone Equestrian in the State, motivated him to strive to work harder.

He looks forward to motivate more youth in this discipline, and to bring more laurels to the State and nation. He attributed his success to God, his family, Equestrian Society Nagaland, the State Government and the department of YRS. Mentioning that he will be participating in the Asian Games 2022 trail, which will be held in Germany, he looks forward

to make a mark in the future as well.

Kekhrisilie Rio participated in the Junior National Equestrian Championship (Endurance) (40-45 Km) 2014-15, Dibrugarh and secured the third position in the Individual Category; Junior National Equestrian Championship (Show Jumping) 2018, Kolkata and secured the first place (National Champion - Individual); FEI World Show Jumping Challenge (Category A) 2020, Bengaluru, and with this feat, he was ranked No. 2 in the world and No. 1 in Asia and India; National Equestrian Championship (Senior), Delhi 2021 and secured the place position in Pussiance Jumping; and Asian Equestrian Federation Junior/Young Jumping Challenge 2019 and secured second in the Individual Category.

Commissioner and s e c r e t a r y Y R S, A l u n Hansing chaired the programme while director YRS delivered vote of thanks. Department officials, EAN and others also attended the felicitation programme.

NZ players overlooked in IPL for 2nd rate Aussies: Doull Auckland, Feb 23 (IANS): Commentator Simon Doull said that it may have not mattered if New Zealand batsman Devon Conway’s unbeaten 99 against Australia in the first T20I had come before the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. Conway went unsold at the auction and four days later, his innings helped New Zealand beat Australia by 53 runs in Christchurch.

After the innings, India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin said that Conway’s innings came “four days late” indicating that it may have made a difference at the auction. “Not sure it matters @ ashwinravi99 NZ players have continually been overlooked for second rate Aus-

tralians in the IPL for years.

Seems outside of IPL big bash is the only comp looked at.. #player #NZcricket,” tweeted Doull, a former New Zealand fast bowler, in reply to Ashwin, saying that performances in Australia’s Big Bash League seems to be a bigger parameter for IPL teams for judging international players.

Doull then further explained his view. “Just some context. I did not mention any names so stop trolling.

Since IPL started 94 Aussies at combined 886 Crore. 31 NZ players 212 Crore. Both countries have 6 first class teams and both have domestic T20 comps. It’s more about timing and viewing of BBL. #balance #scouting,” Doull tweeted.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Nagaland register second consecutive win

Nagaland players and officials after the match on Tuesday.

D IMA P U R , F EB 2 3 (NPN): Nagaland registered their second consecutive win by defeating Mizoram by 29 runs in Round 1, Plate match of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2020-21 in Chennai on Tuesday.

Electing to bat first, after winning the toss, half centuries by Stuart Binny, Sedezhalie Rupreo and Jonathan Rongsen guided Nagaland to 347/9 in 50 overs. Binny scored 80 runs while Sedezhalie and Jonathan scored 65 and 62 runs respectively. Hokaito Zhimomi (33), Chetan Bist (31) and SS Mundhe (30) were the other notable contributors for Nagaland.

For Mizoram, Varte Kima

dia on Tuesday ahead of the first pink ball Test since the Adelaide thrashing.

“Whatever you try to do, it seems to be out of control and nothing seems to go right. That happened to us in Adelaide. Barring those 45 minutes of bad cricket, we dominated that Test match. We are very confident in how we play the pink ball, even in Australia where the pitches were assisting their seamers. We brushed it aside and won in Melbourne.

That (36 all out) is not a hindrance or mental scar,” he said.

Kohli said that even if the wicket is spinnerfriendly, the pink ball is likely to assist seam and pace bowlers.

“The pink ball tends to swing a lot more than the normal red ball that we play with. We experienced that when we played the one match in 2019 with Bangladesh. It is much more challenging to play

Correspondent

Mokokchung, Feb 23 (NPN): The 29th edition of the Mokokchung District Cricket Association (MDCA) Inter-Club Cricket Tournament 2021 organized by the Titans Cricket Club got underway here at Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Tuesday.

A brief inaugural program was held before the commencement of the matches, which was graced

by ADC Mokokchung, Shashank Pratap Singh as guest of honour.

In his brief address, the ADC thanked the MDCA and Titans club for taking the initiative in organizing such kind of tournaments for the 29th year.

Players being introduced to guest of honour. (NP)

He further encouraged the players to maintain the team spirit and expressed hope that more cricketers from Nagaland be featured in future IPL auctions.

Earlier in the program, the welcome address was delivered by Titans Cricket

Club president, Imsuwapang Jamir, while MDCA president, Imlikumzuk exhorted the gathering.

The guest of honour later declared the tournament open. The inaugural match was played between Sovran and Royal Strikers.

Medvedev cracks into top three; Osaka is No. 2

Paris, Feb 23 (AFP): Daniil Medvedev broke into the top three for the first time in Monday’s ATP rankings, while Russian compatriot Aslan Karatsev shot up 72 places after his stunning run to the Australian Open semifinals.

Medvedev finished runner-up at a Grand Slam for the second time as he was swept aside by topranked Novak Djokovic in Sunday’s final in Melbourne, the Serb collecting

Virat Kohli was clicked during practice session ahead of the third Test against England. (BCCI)

with the pink ball regardless of what pitch you are playing on especially in the evening. As a batting team if you are starting your innings under lights then that one and a half hours is very challenging,” said Kohli.

Opener Rohit Sharma had, on Sunday, said that the pitch for the third Test won’t be any different from the one used for the second Test at the MA Chidamba-

Mizoram 318/6 in 50 overs (Pratik Desai 141, Taruwar Kohli 108; Nagaho Chishi 2/30) by 29 runs Arunachal Pradesh 222/7 in 50 overs (Rahul Dalal 123 not out, Kamsha Yangfo 24; Amlanjyoti Das 2/29) lost to Assam 226/5 in 36.4 overs (Sibsankar Roy 60 not out, Denish Das 59; Rakesh Kumar 4/58) by five wickets with 80 balls remaining Manipur 148/9 in 50 overs (Jayanta Sagatpam 32, L Kishan Singha 29; Mayank Mishra 2/18) lost to Uttarakhand 152/3 in 23.1 overs (Jay Bista 71, Kamal Singh 41; L Kishan Singha 2/33) by seven wickets with 161 balls remaining

Inter-cricket tourney in Mokokchung

his 18th major title.

Karatsev, a qualifier, became the first man in the Open era to reach the semifinals of a major on a main draw debut. The 27year-old rose from 114th to 42nd after knocking out three seeds.

Naomi Osaka, meanwhile, moved up one spot to second in the WTA rankings following her Australian Open win, her fourth Grand Slam title.

Osaka, 23, trades

Naomi Osaka

Adelaide 36 all out won’t affect us in Motera day-night Test: Kohli Ahmedabad, Feb 23 (IANS): India’s capitulation for 36 in the second innings of the first Test in Australia, a day-night game played with a pink ball in December, will not have an impact on the third Test against England that begins under lights here on Wednesday at the reconstructed Motera Stadium, said India captain Virat Kohli.

Kohli added that England, who too capitulated for 58 in their last pink ball Test against New Zealand in Auckland, also won’t be affected by a one-off dismal show.

“Both are bizarre experiences for two quality sides. If you ask England the same question -- do you think you can be bowled out for 50-odd, their answer would probably be no. You understand that on a particular day, things are supposed to happen in a certain way,” said Kohli while speaking to the me-

took five wickets while G. Lalbiakvela, Pratik Desai and Bobby took one wicket each.

In the run chase, centuries from Pratik Desai (141) and Taruwar Kohli (108) went in vain as Mizoram were bowled out for 318/6 in 50 overs. Stuart Binny, Nagaho Chishi and Khrievitso Kense claimed two wickets each. Nagaland will next face Assam on February 25 at 9 am. Earlier, in the opening match Nagaland thrashed Sikkim by 98 runs.

Plate (in Chennai): Nagaland 347/9 in 50 overs (Stuart Binny 80, Sedezhalie Rupero 65; Lalnunkima Varte 5/66) lost to

ram Stadium in Chennai.

That wicket started to help spinners from the first session of the first day itself.

Kohli felt that spinners will have a role but the fast bowlers won’t be ignored.

“Spin will come into play for sure. But I don’t think the new ball and the fast bowlers can be ignored.

The pink ball does bring them into the game till the

ball is nice and shiny. It is something that we are very well aware of and are preparing accordingly,” said Kohli.

“Last time we experienced that the first session is the nicest to bat when the sun is out and the ball doesn’t do that much. But when it starts to get dark especially during the twilight period, it gets very tricky. The light changes. It is very difficult to sight the ball and under lights, the ball tends to swing much.

I think it is reversal of roles and you have to adjust quite quickly as batsman,” he said.

Kohli said that batsmen have to start from scratch once it becomes dark regardless of how well they have played throughout the day.

“Even if you might be batting since the afternoon, but you have to take guard again (with lights on) and start from scratch.

You probably have to be a

bit more disciplined than in the day. Similarly with bowlers, plan in afternoon to bowl consistent length and then in afternoon to attack more,” he added.

Kohli said that movement doesn’t bother the Indians too much as “we have beaten England in their own home where the ball does way more”.

He also said that his immediate focus is not on the World Test Championship final to qualify for which India need to win the final two Tests of the four-match series. The team’s focus is to win both Tests, he said.

“You can’t play for reasons (like WTC). We are looking to win both.

For us, these are two games of cricket, that is a reality.

At the present moment, we are preparing for tomorrow. We are ready to grind for five days and move onto the next. No point running into the future too far ahead,” he said.

places with Simona Halep, the Romanian dropping down to third after losing to Serena Williams in the quarterfinals.

Ashleigh Barty remains the World No. 1 in spite of losing in the last eight.

Ankita Raina became the highest-ranked Indian women’s tennis player, climbing to a career-high 168 in singles and 94 in the doubles rankings.

The rankings: MEN:

1. Novak Djokovic; 2. Rafael Nadal; 3. Daniil Medvedev; 4. Dominic Thiem; 5. Roger Federer; 6. Stefanos Tsitsipas; 7. Alexander Zverev; 8. Andrey Rublev; 9. Diego Schwartzman; 10.

Matteo Berrettini.

WOMEN: 1. Ashleigh Barty; 2. Naomi Osaka; 3.

Simona Halep; 4. Sofia Kenin; 5. Elina Svitolina; 6. Karolina Pliskova; 7.

Serena Williams; 8. Aryna Sabalenka; 9. Bianca Andreescu; 10. Petra Kvitova.

Kakit Futsal Tournament DAY 2 RESULTS 1. DSC A 3-0 Kaiho - FC 2. Hooligans FC 0-2 RTN (Tuophema) 3. Ura Villa FC 3-0 Compound FC 4. Bhandari FC 1-1 Adroit Boy’s Adroit Boy’s won 5-4 via penalty.

5. Ragi Warriors 0-0 Highlanders.

Highlanders won 5-4 via penalty.

6. Ozzy Warriors 0-3 Drama House 7. Mustang FC 2-1 TBC FC. 8. Red Scars (BYE) ROUND 16 9. Elite FC 0-2 Tizit FC 10. Diphupar B FC 1-2 Ruboo United 11. Ura Villa FC 1-4 Red Scars.

DAY 3 FIXTURES Match 1 (3:00PM-3:30PM): Highlanders VS Dimapur FC Match 2 (3:40PM-4:10PM): Unfit FC VS Longpan Boy’s Club Match 3 (4:20PM-4:50PM): Drama Club VS Golden Dawn Match 4 (5:00PM-5:30PM): DSC A VS RTN (Tuophema) Match 5 (5:40PM-6:10PM): Mustang FC VS Adroit Boys QUARTER-FINALS Match 6 (6:20PM-6:50PM): Tizit FC VS Ruboo United Match 7 (7:00PM-7:30PM): Red Scars VS Winner of Match 1 Match 8 (7:40PM-8:10PM): Winner of Match 2 VS Winner of Match 3 Match 9 (8:20PM-8:50PM): Winner of Match 4 VS Winner of Match 5

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