March 26, 2018

Nagaland Post This issue 12 + 4 = 16 Pages @ ` 5.00

www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXVIII No. 108

DIMAPUR, MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018 Pages 16 ` 5.00

STC, MMTC merger on cards: Suresh Prabhu

England eves beat India by 7 wickets

On Palm Sunday, pope urges youth to raise their voices

business, Page 8

sports, Page 15

international, Page 9

NEIDS will promote new industrial units in NE: Dr. Singh Rs 3000 crore allocated for 2018-19 Spl. Correspondent

NEW DLEHI, Mar 25 (NPN): Union Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Dr Jitendra Singh has asserted that the North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS) approved by the Union Cabinet would play a crucial role in promoting new industrial units in the region by providing several special incentives.

Interacting with industry and trade delegations from the Northeast in New Delhi on Sunday, Dr. Singh claimed that the Cabinet decision was yet another proof of high priority accorded by the Union Government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote entrepreneurship and job opportu-

Info Commr red flags CIC over complaints related to pol parties NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Information Commissioner Sridhar Acharyulu has questioned the manner in which the Chief Information Commissioner R.K. Mathur dissolved and reconstituted a bench hearing complaints against political parties, saying the decision erodes the independence of individual information commissioners.

“It also raises serious questions about independence of individual information commissioner, who can be part of a bench for some time and not for some other, against his will, without his consent and without a reason or without giving a reason. Can a larger bench be constituted without reference from the existing bench?” Acharyulu asked in a scathing letter dated February 22, 2018 to Mathur, accessed by the PTI. The letter, circulated among all information commissioners in a recent meeting, was a follow-up of a February 7 letter which also raised question marks on the manner in which a bench of Sridhar Acharyulu, Sudhir Bhargava and Bimal Julka hearing complaints against six political parties was dissolved by Mathur.

Dr. Jitendra Singh (File)

nities in the Northeast.

Elaborating on the newly-announced NEIDS, the DoNER minister said, to begin with, a financial outlay of Rs 3000 crore had been earmarked.

Under the scheme, a number of exclusive incentives would be available to new industrial units being set up in any of the eight States. An important provision provided in the scheme was the Central Capital Investment Incentive for Access to Credit (CCIIAC) under which 30% of investments in industrial plant and machinery with an

upper limit of Rs 5 crore would be provided as the incentive amount per unit.

In addition, he said, Central Interest Incentive (CII) would be available to the tune of 3% on working capital credit advanced by eligible banks/financial Institutions for first five years from commencement of commercial production by the unit.

Singh also referred to Central Comprehensive Insurance Incentive (CCII) that would provide for reimbursement of 100% insurance premium on insurance of building and industrial plants and machinery for five years from the date of commencement and commercial production by the unit.

Pointing out that NEIDS also gave relief on GST, the DoNER minister explained that a unique provision had been provided for reimbursement up to the extent of Central government’s share of CGST and IGST for five years from the date of commencement of commercial

production by the unit.

Besides this, he said there would also be incentive on transportation to the tune of 20% of the cost of transportation, including the subsidy currently provided by Railways/ Railway PSUs for movement of goods by rail.

On inland waterways, there would be 20% incentive for finished goods and, for transportation by air on perishable goods, it would be 30% of transportation cost from the airport nearest to the place of production to any airport within the country, he added.

Meanwhile, a Gossaigaon Bazar Samiti delegation led by Kokrajhar Lok Sabha member N Kumar Sarania submitted a memorandum to the DoNER minister, urging him to take up with Assam government the issue of interim financial assistance for the owners of 160 shops that were under construction at the supermarket complex at Gossaigaon town in Kokrajhar district.

NCD flays shooting incidents DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) has condemned the bid on the lives of Joy Chandra on March 22 and Rekha Das on March 23 in Dimapur by armed miscreants, “exposing the spate of lawlessness”.

In a statement issued to the media on Sunday, NCD general secretary Thsapongkyu Sangtam said there was no justification/ sense to murder and killings in a civilised world. He said as a peace loving citizen he condemned all evil acts waged on any citizen irrespective of one’s religion, caste, creed or culture.

Dimapur being the commercial hub of Nagaland, Sangtam said it was imperative on the part of State government step up security and safety measures for all citizens and establishments.

Alleging that the town was infested with illegal collections, NCD also accused the district administration of having failed to contain the menace despite putting efforts. Stating that it had voiced its concern at the

proliferation of organisations and unauthorised collections umpteen number of times, NCD also proposed a body of experts with representatives from the government, semi-government agencies, NGOs, retired judges, market experts, etc. to curb the menace, besides checking price rise.

The council suggested that the committee should conduct a study on the illegal collections and help the administration to come out with a concrete mechanism to contain the problem effectively. According to NCD, the cycle of disturbance had bred generations of disturbed young Nagas, whose potential for positive life had been undermined, thereby jeopardising their own future.

While awaiting a final, honourable and acceptable solution to the Naga imbroglio, it was of vital importance to maintain peace and carry on with normal life on a par with people in other States and nations, the organisation stressed.

MYSURU, MAR 25 (PTI): As the parliament logjam persisted for nearly two weeks, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Sunday accused Narendra Modi government of being “afraid” to face the no-confidence motion moved against it.

“In parliament, a noconfidence motion against the Modi government has been moved. For the past 10 days it has been stalled because the government is afraid,” Gandhi said. Congress has given a notice to move a no-confidence motion against Modi government, becoming the third party to do so after YSRCP and TDP. The no-confidence motion of YSRCP and TDP have not been taken up so far.

The government has stated that it was willing for a discussion on the no-confidence motion.

Terror funding case: 3 senior state govt officials held by NIA DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday apprehended three senior Nagaland government officials, in connection with its ongoing investigation on “terror funding” case.

In a communiqué issued on Sunday, NIA stated that the three state government officials-- Agriculture department director, executive engineer of Rural Development department and divisional accounts officer of the directorate of Urban Development were held on March 25, 2018.

NIA stated that the case was in connection with the alleged charges of large scale extortions and illegal tax collections, on behalf of the banned NSCN (K), from various government organizations and others in Dimapur and Kohima areas under the direction of ‘brig.’ Isac Sumi and other senior leaders.

“The officials were arrested on the basis of their alleged involvement in paying huge amount of money to various UG factions such as NSCN (K), NSCN (R), FGN, NNC and oth-

ers within the period from 2012-2016,” NIA stated.

It said that the allegations were revealed during the scrutiny of official documents including demand letter and payment receipts which were seized during search operation carried out by NIA in 13 government offices on January 18, 2017.

NIA further informed that officials will be produced before the special NIA court in at Dimapur on Monday, with a request for police custody remand.

It may be mentioned that the NIA has so far apprehended/detained 10 Nagaland government officials since 2017 in connection with extortions and illegal tax collections case. Three senior government officials were first arrested in April 2017 followed by four more in October 2017.

The development also comes even as the NIA plans to issue fresh summons to former Nagaland chief minister, T.R. Zeliang, for questioning in connection with an alleged “tax collection and terror

funding” case.

Earlier this month, Zeliang was summoned

by NIA to Delhi for interrogation. However, he had personally written for deferment of the date for his cross examination because of the ongoing Assembly session, which would end on March 26. The NIA had also issued summons to three officials— OSD and two PROs of the CMO under Zeliang.

Reacting to summons issued by the NIA to the former chief minister, press secretary (PS) to Zeliang maintained that as a law abiding citizen of the country, TR Zeliang was ready to co-operate with any investigating agency, including NIA, probing extortion cases in Nagaland since August 2016.

The press secretary asserted that then CMO under Zeliang had nothing to do with funding banned organisations, and that the timing of summon was “conspicuously odd” as it only fuelled suspicions that political motivation and vendetta could not be ruled out.

PM focuses on healthcare, agriculture reforms NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (AGENCIES): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday focussed on agriculture and healthcare in his Mann Ki Baat radio address—issues that have taken centre stage in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

“An extensive exercise on agricultural reforms is being undertaken across the country in order to ensure that our farmers get a fair price for their crop,” Modi said, adding programmes to upgrade the infrastructure of 22,000 rural markets and integrating them with the electronic national agricultural market, or eNAM, will help local farmers connect to a global market.

“A system is being set up wherein farms in any part of the country will have a marketconnect,” Modi said. He reminded farmers of last month’s budget provision fixing minimum support prices (MSPs) at a level which is at least 50% more than cost of production “to ensure that farmers get a fair price for their produce”.

Noting that the coming months when planting of rain-fed summer

crops will begin is crucial for farmers, Modi advised them to adopt new technologies and practices learnt from the state broadcaster’s 24-hour farm channel DD Kisan.

In his Mann Ki Baat address, the prime minister also underlined the importance of healthcare. “All you young people can come together to launch a movement of Fit India,” he said. Modi said Swachch Bharat (clean India) and Swasth Bharat (healthy India) are complementary to each other, adding all ministries are working together for preventive health.

“Preventive healthcare is the least costly and the easiest one as well. And, the more we become aware about preventive healthcare, the more beneficial will it be for individuals, the family and the society,” Modi said.

“It is the result of our concerted efforts and commitment that yoga has now become a mass movement and reached every house.”

He appealed to make the upcoming International Yoga Day on 21 June a success as previous three international yoga days. “Yoga

has to be made popular among the youth, the senior citizens, men and women from all age groups through interesting ways,” he said.

Modi said efforts were being undertaken to make healthcare accessible and affordable with more than 3,000 jan aushadhi (medicine) stores opened across the country and more than 800 medicines being made available there at affordable prices. “The cost of heart stent for heart patients has been reduced to 85%. Knee implants cost has also been regulated and reduced by 50% to 70%. Under ‘Ayushman Bharat Yojana’, the government of India and insurance companies will jointly provide Rs lakh for treatment to about 10 crore families or say 50 crore citizens per year,” he added.

Modi said a new AIIMS —All India Institutes of Medical Sciences—were being opened in various states. One new medical college will be set up for every three districts. In the existing 479 medical colleges, MBBS seats have been increased to about 68,000, he said.

He also called upon all to make India tuberculosis-free by 2025.

Dr. S.C. Jamir returns to Nagaland Aadhaar: UIDAI set to introduce face

This is it!

Dr. S.C. Jamir and his wife being welcomed by civil society members at Dimapur Airport, Sunday. (NP)

Staff Reporter

K Y M C

D E H RA D U N, M AR 25 (AGENCIES): India is ready to take on any unforeseen situation in Doklam, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday. The statement comes days after Chinese President Xi Jinping said they are prepared to fight a bloody battle against its enemies.

On Saturday Indian envoy Gautam Bambawale claimed that any attempt

by China to change the status quo along the Indian border may lead to another Doklam-like stand-off between the two nations.

“We are alert and ready for any unforeseen situation in Doklam. We are constantly working on the modernisation of our forces. We will maintain our territorial integrity,” Sitharaman.

Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a 73-day-long standoff in Doklam from June 16 last year after India stopped the building of a road in the disputed area by the Chinese Army. The faceoff ended on August 28, 2017.

Modi govt ‘afraid’ of facing no-confidence motion, says Rahul

(Full story on p-12)

“All factions are in there waiting to collect tax.

See how tax collection unites them?”

India talks tough to China, says ready for any situation

D I M A P U R , M AR 2 5 (NPN): Former Governor of Odisha and five-time chief minister of Nagaland, Dr. S.C. Jamir along with his wife, Imkonglemla Jamir, on Sunday landed at Dimapur Airport. Dr. Jamir completed his tenure as governor of Odisha on March 20.

Dr. Jamir and his wife were received by members of Ongpangkong Senso Telongjem Dimapur (OSTD) and Chumukedima Ao Union at the airport.

Dr. S.C. Jamir, considered a legendary statesman, had taken over as Odisha Governor on March 9, 2013 and retired on March 20, 2018. He had also served as Governor of Goa (17

July 17, 2004 – July 21, 2008), was given additional charge of Gujarat (July 24, 2009 –November 26, 2009) and served as Governor of Maharashtra (July 19, 2008 –January 21, 2010).

Dr. S.C Jamir, the first Lok Sabha member from Nagaland, was also appointed as parliamentary secretary by the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

He also served as Union Deputy Minister of Railways, Labour & Rehabilitation and also Union Deputy Minister of Community Development & Cooperation, Food and Agriculture.

He was first voted to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in the year 1971 and served as chief minister of Nagaland five times – April 18, 1980 to June 5, 1980; November 18, 1982 to November 28, 1986; January 25, 1989 to May 10, 1990 and then two consecutive terms, February 22, 1993 to March 6, 2003.

For his first two terms he was a member of the Progressive United Democratic Front, but by 1989 his party merged with the Indian National Congress.

Dr. Jamir was also elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha from Nagaland for the term 1987-1992, but he resigned in the year 1989.

authentication feature from July 1

NEW DELHI, Mar 25 (PTI): Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is all set to make face authentication available alongside iris or fingerprint scan as means of verifying Aadhaar users from July 1, 2018.

The UIDAI, which is in-charge of the 12-digit identifier Aadhaar, in January had announced that it will introduce face authentication feature to help those who run into problems in biometric authentication due to old age, hardwork or worn-out fingerprints.

It had said that face authentication will be allowed only in fusion mode meaning it would be permitted along with either fingerprint or iris or OTP to verify the details of Aadhaar holders.

In a presentation to the

Supreme Court last week where he emphasised the robustness of the Aadhaar encryption system saying breaking it may take “more than the age of the universe for the fastest computer on earth”, Unique Identification Authority of India CEO Ajay Bhushan Pandey also informed that the proposed face authentication feature will be introduced

by July 1.

“Face authentication shall be available in fusion mode along with one more authentication factor like fingerprint/iris/OTP from July 1, 2018,” he had said in the power point presentation titled `1 billion +’.

Aadhaar is being used for identity authentication across banks, telecom companies, public distribution system, income tax amongst others and the extent of its

usage can well be gauged from the fact that an average of 4 crore authentications are being done on a daily basis.

Even in his presentation, the UIDAI CEO has pointed out that 1,696.38 crore Aadhaar authentications and 464.85 crore eKYC transactions have been performed so far.

Seeking to allay concerns over government’s ambitious Aadhaar scheme, Pandey had said that UIDAI does not collect purpose, location or details of transaction.

Pandey began his presentation before the fivejudge constitution bench on Thursday and is scheduled to resume it on March 27. The bench is hearing a bunch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of Aadhaar.

K Y M C

state

2

ICAR Nagaland conducts trg on Amrapalli mangoes

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

news Capital College holds parting social in Brief SBC meeting : Sumi Baptist Convention (SBC) Council has convened a meeting on April 13 at SBC office, TTC complex, Thahekhu. All the members have been requested to attend the meeting.

SKK union assembly :Sümi Kiphimi Kuqhakalu (All Sümi Students Union - SKK) has convened its first union assembly for the tenure 2018-2020 on April 7, 10:30 a.m. at SKK Platinum Jubilee Memorial Hall, Zunheboto. SKK has requested all unit presidents, representatives and senior leaders to attend the union assembly.

Organizers, speakers and participants with the programme banner.

DIMAPUR: ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema organised a three-day training on “Livelihood Improvement and Income Enhancement of Tribal Farmers Through Scientific Mango Cultivation” funded under TSP from March 22 to 24. The training was organised as part of a TSP project of the same name for popularistion of Amrapalli variety of mangos in Nagaland.

During the programme, courses related to

grafting techniques, nursery management, integrated nutrient management, integrated disease management, integrated pest management, post harvest management and value addition were covered by scientists of the centre.

Practical demonstrations on mango grafting and nursery management techniques were also given during the training period.

Aabon Yanthan, scientist and coordinator of the training highlighted the importance of mango and

other horticultural crops cultivation in Nagaland and he urged the farmers to take up processing and value addition of various horticultural crops for doubling their income.

Dr. Azeze Seyie, scientist (spices, plantation, medicinal and aromatic plants), apprised the trainees of the scope for increasing the area under different horticultural crops especially jhum land. She also stressed on the importance of quality planting materials for successful orchard

establishment.

In his speech, Dr. D. J. Rajkhowa, joint director urged the trainees to follow scientific methods of mango farming and encouraged the farmers to adopt integrated farming systems for sustainable livelihoods.

Later, about 2,500 mango saplings of the Amrapalli variety were distributed among the participants by the joint director. The training was attended by 30 participants from Dimapur, Wokha, Peren and Kohima.

DBSU new office bearers : Dimapur Bengali Students’ Union (DBSU) held its meeting at Millennium Market, Dimapur on March 25.

DBSU stated that during the meeting a new team of office bearers were elected for a period of two years from April 1, 2018. The new team is led by Subham Nath as president, Biki Dey as general secretary along with five others.

Students during the Captial College parting social.

DIMAPUR: Capital College of Higher Education held its 9th parting social on March 23rd at state academy hall, Kohima under the theme, “Pursuit to Vertex”.

Speaking at the programme, Sahisongla, dean of students and assistant professor exhorted the students that in pursuit of vertex a positive attitude, patience, perseverance, commitment and hard work were vital in order to be successful in life. She also wished the outgoing students a successful journey.

In his valedictor y speech, president of Capital College of Higher Education Students’ Union (CCHESU), Thejoto Nienu asserted that young citizens have the potential and capability to be harbingers of change and that change can only happen when they get involved, get engaged and come together to reason for a cause. Further, Nienu challenged the gathering to be realistic in their approach towards life.

A speech on behalf of the outgoing students and the juniors were delivered

by Azuina and Vevotolu, while Temsu shared his experiences. Duets were presented by Tsoshelu and Vekhrutsolu and Imna and Imsen. “Nautinka show” was presented by Nekuto and friends, while Wethito presented a farewell song.

A poem was also read by Kete and a play on refund was showcase by 2nd semester students.

Tito and Kazia hosted the programme, while a vote of thanks was tendered by Sopulo followed by the benediction by assistant professor, Tatongkala Lohe.

PGC organises ‘36th parting social’ KMC warns against WVC bans hunting; trapping random throwing of waste materials

PGC vice principal, T.L. Singsit exhorting the outgoing students DIMAPUR: Pfutsero Government College (PGC) organised its ‘36th parting social’ on March 23 at its Auditorium under the theme “Follow your Bliss” with PGC vice principal, T.L. Singsit as the guest speaker.

A press release by the college stated that, in his speech, the guest speaker thanked the outgoing students for bringing laurels to the college through their many achievements and for lifting the standard of the college to a higher level. He challenged the juniors to compete and excel in their activities and day to day life and also beat the records of

their seniors.

Singsit also advised the students to keep in mind the realities of the world and work hard and compete at the highest level whereby they can make a living in whatever field they pursue.

The programme was chaired by Nuzolü Husü; Rosemary Mero, E y i e k h r o t e Ve r o a n d Vezokhro spoke on behalf of the outgoing students and Kekhruvelu spoke on behalf of the present students. The guest speaker also released the college annual magazine “Transformation Through Participation”.

DIMAPUR: The Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) has warned that it will depute its inspectors from time to time to check random throwing of wastes wherein defaulters if found shall be penalized up-to a maximum of Rs.2000 /- as per the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001.

K M C a d m i n i s t r a t o r, Kethosituo Sekhose in a press release stated that it had come to the notice of the council that waste materials including garbage were being thrown in areas not designated as collection points in the ward roads and highways, and this had been causing nuisance and pollution that may lead to spread of diseases.

Sekhose further said that there were cases where in-spite of signboards being put in place restricting throwing of wastes by wards, colonies and KMC, the same were not being adhered to.

KMC also warned that ward councils and ward sanitation committees shall also be held responsible if such random throwing of wastes is found within their respective jurisdictions.

within its jurisdiction

DIMAPUR: The Wokha Village Council (WVC) has strictly banned hunting, trapping and use of electricity (battery) and chemicals in rivers within the village jurisdiction.

A press release by WVC secretary, Zuchanbemo Kithan stated that the council also prohibits plucking of wild flowers (Rhododendron etc) and taking away of any forest medicinal plants and herbs from Mt.Tiyi reserved forest.

WVC said that violators would be apprehended and fines imposed on them as per the severity of

the violation and the damages. WVC has informed all concerned that youth volunteers would be keeping regular vigil.

WVC further cautioned that defaulters of the above strictures, the person or party would be held solely responsible it would invite seizure of their materials and penalty as per WVC resolutions.

Rotary Club of Dimapur distributed blankets, bed sheet, mugs and buckets among the T h e c o u n c i l h a s fire affected families of Signal Angami, an event coordinated by Rtn Rakesh Kochar. therefore requested all citizens of Wokha town and general public to cooperate for the upliftment and betterment for the future.

NSCN (R) UT-1 terminates service DIMAPUR: The NSCN/GPRN (Reformation) UT-1 has terminated the service two of its cadres identified as Inaka Asumi, son of Mughato Asumi of Lukiqhe Shevishe village, Aghunato area and Neibu Shuya leacy, son of B.P. Shuya of Chumukidima town ward No. 2, from active national service with immediate effect.

The NSCN/GPRN (R) UT-1, supervisor and kilonser, Khekato Kinny stated that, the duo were found involved in “anti- social activities” which was against the “yehzabo” of the government. It further informed the general public to not entertain them in any way relating to matters of government.

Dimapur Government College (DGC) history department organized a one day study tour for Sixth Semester Major students to Sibsagar (Sivasagar), once the capital of Ahom kingdom and one of the most ancient towns in Assam. The team was led by the teachers of History Department and visited the historic sites, such as Gaurisagar Tank, Siva Dol Temple, Rang-Ghar, Talatal-Ghar, Kareng-Ghar and Maidans.

LDLSA conduct legal awareness programme

LDLSA panel lawyer along with village council members.

DIMAPUR: Longleng District Legal Services Authority (LDLSA) with Dobashi (DBs) conducted a legal awareness programme at customar y court on March 23.

Speaking on Nagaland Village Council Act, 1978, Panel lawyer LDLSA, Hamnyei Angh K

Y

M

C

explained that the village council had the power and duties to formulate development schemes, to supervise proper maintenance of water supply, roads, education and other welfare activities.

He also said that the village council should help various government

agencies in carrying out development works in the village and to take development works on its own initiative or on request by the government.

Explaining the details of the administration of justice by the village council under the act, Hamnyei Angh said that the village

council constituted under the law in force from time to time will administer justice within the village limits in accordance with the customary law and usages as accepted by the cannons of justice established in Nagaland and the law in this respect as enforced from time to time.

On village administration, he stated that the village council will be auxiliary to the administration and have full power to deal with internal administration of the village such as maintenance of law and order etc.

Speaking on the legal services authority act, Monnyei, panel lawyer LDLSA said that the Legal Services Authority Act 1987 met the objectives of Article 39A of the Constitution of India, the state is required to “secure that the operation of the legal system promotes free legal aid, by suitable legislations or schemes nor denied to anyone by reason of economic or other disabilities”.

She said that the functions of the legal services authority is to provide free legal aid, establish Legal Aid Clinic, conduct Lok Adalat, legal awareness programs, para-legal volunteer schemes etc. Earlier, Sungli DB welcomed the LDLSA and delivered a speech.

Marking the occasion of the feast of St. Joseph, the Patron saint of St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama, Josephites gathered on March 19, to pray for the New Site of the up-coming Post Graduate Block. Most Reverend Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, Nagaland blessed the site and laid the foundation Stone for the same. He also blessed the newly constructed five-storey staff quarter building.

NMC inaugurates Tuensang Chapter

The Nagaland Motorcycle Club, Dimapur and Kohima chapters along with the new Tuensang Chapter after the installation programme.

DIMAPUR: The Nagaland Motorcycle Club (NMC) installed its Tuensang chapter on March 24, at a small gathering at BN farms, Youngphang Village Tuensang. As part

of the program, around 20 riders from Nagaland Motorcycle Club Dimapur and Kohima chapters, joined the new members and conducted a road safety awareness campaign in

Tuensang town.

The club members also took part in the World TB day programme observed at the Chief Medical Officer’s office and Tuensang Village.

K

Y

M

C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is increasing budget deficit due to financial mismanagement ?

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

A B C

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

MITE red ribbon club organises teachers trg

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

A

B

C

Yes No Can’t say

94% 2% 4%

Next poll

Q: W i l l N P F p l a y a n

effective role as opposition?  Yes  No  Can’t say

WEATHER FORECAST March 26

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala A t-storm around in the p.m.

37 22

Aizawl

More sun then clouds

30 16

Guwahati A t-storm around in the p.m.

Imphal

Mostly sunny and pleasant

34 17 31 12

Itanagar A stray morning thunderstorm 26 17 Shillong A t-storm around in the p.m.

Kohima

Mostly sunny and pleasant

Dimapur A t-storm around in the p.m.

Mkg

Mostly sunny and pleasant

Tuensang Sunshine and cooler

22 10 26 11 33 17 28 11 19 9

Not as warm with sunshine

24 16

Zunheboto Mostly sunny and pleasant

25 9

Wokha

Resource person, Prasoon Gupta, speaking at the training.

DIMAPUR: Red Ribbon Club of Modern Institute of Teacher Education (MITE), Kohima organized a training for teachers on adolescent education programme in collaboration with NSACS, Kohima on March 23 at the college auditorium.

During the programme, participants were trained on conducting different psychological tests at the school level, such as personality traits, interest and aptitude, by resource person Prasoon Gupta, assistant manager, pearson clinical and talent assessment, Noida (UP). An essay competition was also organised by red ribbon club at the programme.

While sharing about

3

State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

the sufferings she had gone through, Mushim talked about being infected with HIV and highlighted the stigma and discrimination prevalent in society. Bange Konyak also dwelt on the subject of drug abuse.

Earlier during the programme, the welcome speech was delivered by Principal MITE, Ainato Yeptho, assistant director (youth affairs) NSACS who highlighted the objectives of the training, Thejangunuo Theunuo, deputy director (IEC), NSACS spoke about the scenario of HIV and AIDS in Nagaland in general and Kohima in particular, while Dr. Asünü Sakhrie, district TB officer, Kohima explained the ba-

sics of HIV and AIDS. Also, on March 24, a similar workshop on guidance and counseling was organized by Pearson Academy in collaboration with NECC, MITE Kohima branch at ICT lab of MITE. Dr. Zavise, associate professor SCERT Kohima coordinated the programme which started with a brief introduction on the objectives of the workshop.

Chairperson of the programme, Dr. Imkongsenla Longchar, assistant professor, MITE was appointed as the state coordinator of the North East career club.

21 members from different fields participated in the workshop.

NSU Kolkata elects new officer bearers

HCC organises 6th basic craft trg

DIMAPUR: Election commission of the Naga Students Union (NSU) Kolkata elected office bearers for the tenure 2018-2019 on at the 52nd parting social NSUK, March 24 at NCF Chapel hall, old Nagaland house. Election commissioners, Akani Sumi and Alono Thorie, in a press release said that Thepuzo Keyho had been elected as its president, Atolivi H. Jimomi as vice president, Dinenli Kath as general secretary, Tiajungla Tally as finance secretary, Yashilemba Ao as cultural and literacy secretary, Mechiel Dili as information and statistical secretary, Ngangoulal as games and sports secretary Trainees undergo hands-on training. and Christina Yanthan as assistant games and sports DIMAPUR: The 6th basic s o n g, p r o p r i e t o r - c u m craft training for 30 days of instructor of Ahthibung secretary.

Henpu Craft Centre (HCC), handloom centre presented Ahthibung town, Peren was a traditional muffler to kicked off by major YSS major YSS, in the presence post commander 36th As- of GB Thangtinmang, to DIMAPUR: A meeting of sam Rifles Ahthibung on appreciate his contributions the co-ordination commit- March 19. The training was and concern for the people tee of the Nagaland Press sponsored by 36th Assam of the area.

The programme was Association (NPA) with Rifles Ahthibung.

D u r i n g t h e p r o chaired

by Henpu Gamall working journalists in Nagaland will be held on gramme, Phalvah Thom- lhou, instructor (HCC).

March 28, 1 p.m at The Press Point, Naga Shopping Arcade, Dimapur. The coordination committee comprises of editors of all newspapers in Nagaland and the presidents and general secretaries of the three press clubs in the state.

NPA co-ordination committee meeting

W h i l e m a j o r YS S ex horted the participants.

Lallet Mangjel, CRC pronounced the benediction while speeches were delivered by Lallet from CRC Ahthibung and Paongul, CRC Ahthibung. Around 30 people attended the programme along with GB, PK Haolai, Bendang member ATC and well wishers.

Re-orientation training programme for SW, PFW & SFW in Tsg

Officials and staff along with the SW, PFW and SFW.

DIMAPUR: A re-orientation training programme for Surveillance Workers (SWs), Permanent Field Workers (PFWs) and Surveillance Field Workers (SFWs) of all the blocks under Tuensang district was conducted on March 23, at Chief Medical Office Conference Hall, Tuensang.

The felicitator for the training was TVBO, Tosohivo Angami where he stated that, the SW, PFW and SFW are the backbone at the grassroots level who work hard to save the lives of the villagers in cases of Malaria.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. T. Pangjung Sangtam

delivered a short speech regarding the Malaria cases in the district. He reiterated that earlier, there was only malaria but nowadays numerous Vector Borne Diseases have come along.

He also requested the health workers to work hard and with sincerity so that various health issues related to malaria could be eradicated.

Malaria inspector, Nokching Somba, highlighted the job responsibilities of the SWs, PFWs and SFWs. P.Chiye (Lab Technician) also gave a briefing on blood slide collection and smear preparation of RDT tests.

To commemorate the triumphant entry of the Lord Jesus Christ to Jerusalem, the believers of Anugrah Nagamese Baptist Church, Signal Angami Village organized a prayer walk on Sunday, on March 25 from 8-9 a.m. led by Pastor Samuel Amol Tar followed by a worship service. Rev. L. Among Phom, missionary at-large delivered the message on the occasion.

Agri department Phek conducts training programme

SAMETI conducts 2 day trg

DIMAPUR: A two-day training on “operational guidelines of NMAET and Central Sector Extension (CSE) Schemes” for Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) functionaries was organised by State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI) on March 20-21 at SAMETI, Medziphema.

A press release from Nagaland Police Baptist Church Chumukedima, Women Department Pilgrimage tour SAMETI, Medziphema to Molungkimong & Molungyimsen March 19 and 20. stated that resource persons for the training programme were director of SAMETI & principal IETC, Dr. I. Amenla; deputy project directors, SAMETI – Dr. Ithika C. Swu, Tiajungla Longchar, Vikaho Chophi and Sentinaro Longchar and agriculture inspector, SNO cell (ATMA), Alemba Jamir.

The training covered theoretical sessions on SAMETI – objectives Through the initiative of Dimapur Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship, members of Dimapur Sumi and activities, Extension Baptist Church and Chang Baptist Church Dimapur in collaboration with Naga Council Dimapur conducted a cleanliness drive at Naga cemetery Dimapur on March 24. More than 600 Education Institute (EEI) and Manage, Hyderabad volunteers participated in the cleanliness drive led by staff and leaders of two churches.

– an overview, Innovative central sector extension schemes – ACABC, PGDAEM; Cafeteria of activities at district level, discussion/ interaction on training & demonstration; guidelines on group formation; Organisational structure of Extension Reforms & ATMA with functions, Convergence with KVK, NGOs and other research stations and joint visits; NMAET- funding pattern, salary and related issues, monitoring & evaluation, report writing, MPRs, impact study, innovative component, SMSP, SMAP, SMPP- Policy matters and the way forward.

The practical sessions covered topics on ICT Schemes & ITD components, e-governance, ERMS and Kisan call centre.

The participants visited Unity SHG at Medziphema and went on a field trip to a Pineapple farm school in Ruzaphema village under Medziphema block.

SHGs and officials at the ‘Women in Agriculture’ training.

DIMAPUR: Agriculture department, Phek conducted a training programme on “Women in Agriculture” with cultivation practices of Kholar beans on March 23 at Sathazu village under Chozuba sub-division.

According to a press release from Phek AFA DAO, Neilo Koza, the programme was chaired by SDAO Chozuba, Thepusa Nakro, while the keynote address on “Women in Agriculture” and self-help group activities was de-

livered by deputy district agriculture officer Phek, Rudupra Keyho.

The SHGs were also given technical guidance on cultivation of Kholar beans by AO Vechita Vese followed by closing remarks from the chairman.

MGOS Church celebrates Palm Sunday

MGOS church Dimapur celebrating Palm Sunday.

K Y M C

DIMAPUR: MGOS church Dimapur celebrated Palm Sunday on March 25 at its premises.

The cong regation held a morning prayer followed by special Palm Sunday procession, service and Holy Communion. The chief celebrant at Kohima Christian congregation was Rev. Fr. Jojo Joseph.

Fr. PS. Varghse, vicar, MGOS church, Dimapur said that evening prayer

would held at 5:45 p.m every day till resurrection Sunday.

On ‘Maundy Thursday’, morning service will start at 5.30 a.m followed

by Paschal service. On Good Friday mor ning prayer will start at 8 a.m to 3 p.m.

On Holy Saturday 8 a.m, Holy Communion.

On Easter Sunday morning prayer will start at 5.30 a.m followed by Easter service.

K Y M C

northeast

4

Development on right track: Biren

Chief minister N Biren Singh inaugurating the Marjing Polo Complex at Heingang in Imphal East on Sunday. (NP) Correspondent

IMPHAL, Mar 25: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh Sunday launched a scathing attack on the Congress and accused it of trying to destabilize the incumbent BJP-led government.

The chief minister also accused the Congress of strangulating state’s growth, while claiming that the state’s development has “come back on the right track” after the BJP-led government came to power in the state.

Addressing a public function held in his Assembly constituency, Heingang in Imphal East today, the chief minister alleged that Congress was trying to destabilize his government taking parliamentary secretary appointment issue.

The Manipur Parliamentary Secretary (Appointment, Salary and Allowances and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill was passed by the previous Congress government. However, after controversy surfaced, a bill to repeal the same was already passed by the state

Assembly.

Despite knowing this, the Congress was campaigning at the national capital to farther the issue.

“Their visit to the nation’s capital regarding the matter is utterly futile,” he said.

The chief minister was referring to the current campaign of the state Congress legislators seeking disqualification of 12 MLAs of the BJP and its partners in the state who were appointed as parliamentary secretaries.

The Congress in Manipur has been alleging that

by passing the repeal bill, the N Biren government had once again violated the Constitution.

The chief minister also said that the state was backward because of the misrule of the previous government.

The Congress government had strangulated the growth of the state for years, however, after the BJP-led coalition government came to power, development has come to the right track, Singh claimed while reiterating his government’s commitment to execute every promise that the government had made.

“We would not give any false promise to the people. We have the bounden duty in the fore to provide quality life to the citizens of the state,” he said.

“We should not do politics which would hamper the development pace.

The only reason for the underdevelopment of Manipur was the non-transparency in the governance system in the past,” he added.

Since the BJP-led government came to power in the state, priority is being given for the improvement of lives of the people by initiating new human oriented schemes, the chief minister added.

Army officer injured in encounter with militants Udalguri, Mar 25 (PTI): An Army officer and two militants were injured in an encounter between a joint Army-police team and underground group NDFB (Songbijit) in Darrang district of lower Assam Sunday, police sources said.

Acting on a tip-off on the presence of insurgents at Borjhar under Dhola police station, an operation was conducted. The militants opened fire at the security forces which also retaliated and an Army captain as well as two NDFB (S) ultras were injured in the exchange of fire, the sources said.

The officer, identified as Captain Prabhakar, suffered injuries on his hands and was given initial treatment, said the doctors treating him at a government hospital in Mongoldoi town.

He has been referred to Gauhati Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment, they said, The two injured militants, identified as Marcus Basumatary and Simon Baglari, were were out of danger, the doctors said.

A handmade rifle with 15 live cartridges and some documents were recovered from the ultras, police said.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Tripura people urged to change lifestyle to prevent cancer

Agartala, Mar 25 (PTI): Tripura Health Minister Sudip Roy Burman has asked people, especially women, of the state to change their lifestyle to prevent cancer.

He said 2,500 new cancer patients are diagnosed every year in Tripura and 40 per cent of the total cancer affected patients in the state are women now.

“It is a matter of concern for us that the women of the state are increasingly being affected by cancer either by chewing tobacco or due to smoking. I think change of lifestyle can help them to remain free from cancer,” Burman told PTI. Tripura tops in the

North East in tobacco consumption in all its forms, the minister said quoting a report.

Burman said the government has planned to modernise the Regional Cancer Hospital here and also set up another cancer hospital at Ambassa in Dhalai district.

“This is our vision.

Governor Tathagata Roy also mentioned this in his speech in the Assembly,” he said.

Burman said the government has decided to organise more health awareness campaigns for cancer in the state. Stressing on awareness campaigns for cancer treatment, Dr Gautam Ma-

jumder, the Superintendent of Regional Cancer Hospital here, said over 70 per cent cancer patients report at an advance stage due to lack of awareness.

He said 1,458 cancer patients died in 2016 in the state while 3,786 patients died of cancer between 2014-2016.

Among all cancer patients in the state, 40 per cent suffer from head and neck cancer mostly caused by chewable tobacco, he said.

On Thursday last, he flagged off a motorbike rally - ‘Beat Cancer: Run and Ride 2018’ - aimed at generating awareness among people.

Dhing rape accused arrested RAHA, Mar 25(AGENCIES): Nagaon police on Sunday finally arrested prime rape accused Zakir Hussain three days after he along with two juveniles gangraped a 13year old school girl inside her house and burnt her alive.

According to information, Zakir was captured in an operation at Laugaon in Itapata in the evening. The police team arrested him by tracking his phone call records.

Initially, the police traced one of his associates who received a call from him in the afternoon. Then hours after Zakir was

caught. A team of senior police officers has been interrogating Zakir who led the gang to commit the double crime. On Monday police would produce him before the court seeking his custodial remand.

Chief minister Sarbanabda Sonowal asked DGP to arrest Zakir immediately to help the authority ensure justice to the victim and her family members.

Earlier, hundreds of people hit the streets in Golaghat demanding Justice for the minor girl in Dhing whom three miscreants gangraped and burnt alive on Friday afternoon.

Let there be NIA probe into Shah asks Assam BJP leaders to strengthen party before LS polls Sohan D Shira killing: Champion SHILLONG, Mar 25 (Agencies): The chairman of GNLA, who is out on bail, favoured NIA probe into the killing of the outfit’s commander-inchief Sohan D Shira.

Shira was shot dead on February 24 by the police a few days after the NCP candidate from Williamnagar, Jonathone Sangma, was killed by suspected GNLA militants.

“Let there be NIA inquiry. The agency can prove the nature of the killing and people are demanding probe. If there is any inquiry, I can also cooperate with police and NIA,” Champion, who came to greet his lawyer Sujit Dey at his chamber in the city, told reporters.

Champion presented a bouquet to Dey for his legal support.

He was arrested from a place near Indo-Bangladesh border under Pynursla on July 30, 2012, and the trial of the case is still in progress in the city court.

As he is still under trial, Champion, assisted

by Dey, used measured words to the questions from media persons. To a query regarding the policy of the state government not to hold talks with militants, Champion said it was up to the government to take steps.

He also said that if any cadres want to surrender, they can contact him to join the mainstream.

Champion said as per

media reports, there may be still two or three GNLA cadres and they can also surrender.

When asked, Champion asserted that there was no question of going back to the jungle and added that he would be a law abiding person.

“The past is past. I am happy now to be free thanks to the intervention of the Supreme Court,” Champion said.

He did not respond when asked whether he has any plan to join politics.

“I have a vision for the future, which will not be revealed now. The current priority is to be with the family members and the rest, I will think later,” he said.

Guwahati, Mar 25 (PTI): BJP president Amit Shah has advised the Assam unit of his party to reach out to the people of the state, down to the grassroot level, keeping in view the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha election, a party leader said Sunday.

Shah advised the core committee members of the BJP’s Assam unit to visit the districts and strengthen the party’s base in the northeastern state, inform the people about its manifesto for the upcoming panchayat polls and find out whether the benefits of the government schemes had reached the grassroot level.

“Amit Shah suggested that keeping in view the 2019 Parliamentary polls, the party should be strengthened in the state. He also

wanted the core committee members to establish links with the people by visiting their homes,” state BJP chief Ranjit Kumar Das said, while briefing reporters about the party’s core committee meeting here in the presence of Shah last night.

Shah, who is on a twoday visit to Assam since yesterday, visited the Kamakhya temple here today.

“The manifesto for the upcoming panchayat polls in the state was also discussed at the meeting and Amit Shah welcomed it,” Das added.

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said ministers, MPs, MLAs, booth and mandal committee presidents of each district and workers of the party attended the core committee

BJP National President Amit Shah offers prayers at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati on Sunday. (PTI) meeting.

“We discussed Assam’s development. Taking all the people of the state with us in the coming days, we want to strengthen the panchayati raj system,” he told reporters.

“We have full confidence that the people of the state will extend their support to strengthening the panchayati raj system for bringing development in the rural areas,” Sonowal said.

On reports about alliance partner Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) going alone in the panchayat polls to be held later this year, state BJP spokesperson Dilip Saikia said, “The alliance dharma will continue.”

Sikkim’s organic farming mission at stake S ili g u r i , M a r 2 5 (Agencies): Balkrishna Sharma has given up cultivating potatoes and maize in his small plot near Pakyong in east Sikkim.

So have many farmers like him. The reason: constant attack by wild animals.

Some have switched to cultivating alternative crops like tea to save their crops and continue their livelihood.

The menace has put at stake the Pawan Chamling government’s ambitious mission of switching to organically farmed products completely by March 31 in the state.

This means there would be a stoppage on the trade of items not produced organically, from other states and countries, in Sikkim’s markets.

Started in 2016, the tiny Himalayan state’s organic mission had won it accolades from around the world.

But to meet its objective by the deadline, the state has to produce vegetable and fruits organically in sufficient quantities to ensure there is no shortage in the markets.

“The state already has 76,000 hectares of certified organic farming land. Sikkim produced about 80,000 tonnes of vegetables in 2017. This has to increase in the near future to cater to the need of the state’s more than 6 lakh people and 14 lakh tourists visiting the state

A farmer in Parakar shows the damage done to his cardamom plant by monkey. every year,” said agriculture minister, Somnath Poudyal.

Desperate to salvage his mission, Chamling assured farmers that they would not face punishment if they kill wild animals to protect their crops.

“People can chase away wild animals that enter farms to damage crops, or to eat goats and chicken.

They can chase away animals using stones, sticks or weapons. No legal action would be taken if the wild animal is killed in the process. It will be treated as accidental death,” Chamling had said on March 10 in the state assembly.

Chamling also directed the forest department to issue an executive order immediately.

The wild animals named by the chief minister are cheetah, leopard,

wild boar, monkey, bear, porcupine, rats, jackal, wild cat.

“Farmers have the rights to protect their produce,” said Poudyal, who is also the animal husbandry minister, adding that the ban on the entry of nonorganic produce would be strictly implemented from March 31.

The government has also been encouraging youths to take up organic farming.

But the state, which has about 50,000 farmers, has seen about 25% quitting over a couple of years, according to an official in state agriculture department.

One of the factors contributing to the farmers turning away from agriculture is the increase in the population of wild animals, which can be

attributed to the government’s ban on hunting in forests in 1999.

According to Sarala Khaling, regional director, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment for north-east India, “Villages located near forests in the Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalayas are most vulnerable to crop depredation by wildlife.”

But there is hardly any region in Sikkim where agricultural activities do not experience attacks by marauding wild animals.

Farmers of Daramdin constituency in West Sikkim have expressed their helplessness to protect their potato harvest from wild boars.

At Parakar village near Pakyong in east Sikkim, many farmers have either stopped cultivating altogether or have shifted to tea cultivation, due to fear of wild animals.

People moving into forests to collect edible flowers, roots and fruits are also responsible in drawing wild animals out of the forests into farmlands.

Chamling has said that the government will restrict people from moving into the forests to tap what animals can eat in their natural habitat.

“If this continues, I doubt whether the state government’s organic mission would succeed,” said Balkrishna Sharma, a marginal farmer near Pakyong in east Sikkim.

TENDER NOTICE Notice inviting Tender for award of contract for providing services of Security Service (without Arms) and Unskilled Workers for conservancy (including cleaning materials) & Gardening services- Sealed tenders are invited from reputed & registered services providers for a period of One Year w.e.f the date of effectiveness of the agreement on contract basis for their engagement at KV Rangapahar Cantt.

The detailed information for outsourcing the aforesaid services has been given in the Tender Document which may be obtained from the office of KV Rangapahar Cantt on payment of Rs. 500/- (Rupees Five Hundred only) or may be downloaded from the website www.kvrangapahar.edu. from 26/03/2018 The Earnest Money Deposit of Rs. 5000/- (Rupees Five Thousand only) should be paid by demand draft in favour of Kendriya Vidyalaya Rangapahar Cantt VVN A/C payable at Dimapur (The downloaded tender document should be accompanied with a DD of Rs. 500/- Extra). The last date, time and place for submission of tender document is 09/04/2017 by 1.00 PM in Office of KV Rangapahar Cantt.

DC-662

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

No work, no pay: Mnp FM to striking employees

Correspondent

Y Joykumar speaking at a public function in Imphal on Sunday. (NP) function here, the deputy chief minister said that government was willing to implement the 7th Pay to its employees but it has to be delayed considering the bad financial health of the state.

According to the deputy chief minister, the strike was untimely as government has a lot of financial related works to be completed before the closer of the 2017-18 financial year (on March 31).

“If they (employees) refused to resume work by Monday, considering the need of the hour, we have to hire retired government employees to handle the works,” he said.

While clarifying that

there was no question of unwillingness on the part of the government to adopt the 7th Pay, the deputy chief minister maintained that government has no resource to meet the additional fund to be incurred while implementing the pay structures recommended by the 7th Pay Commission.

“Government would incur an additional fund of Rs 1400 crore a year while adopting the 7th Pay. The state government has no resource to meet this additional fund,” he said.

However, he added that government was considering fulfilling the employees’ demand after the 15th Finance Commission award, he added.

Large consignment of exotic animals seized in Assam GUWAHATI, Mar 25 (Agencies): Five Gaboon vipers, a pair of albino African pythons, three marmosets and one meerkat were among a large consignment of exotic animals which was seized by Assam Police and the forest department at the city’s Jorabat area near the Meghalaya inter-state border on Saturday. This is the largest seizure of exotic animals in the state so far, indicating that Guwahati is increasingly being used by traders as a conduit for illegally supplying exotic animals for sale in the international pet market.

Police said one Pradip Kumar of Budaun district in Uttar Pradesh was arrested on Saturday when the animals were found in his possession during a vehicle search at Jorabat.

Most of the species which were found with him are native to Africa and South America.

Jorabat officer incharge Partha Pratim Gogoi said Kumar sourced the animals from Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, and was coming to Guwahati on a Tata Sumo to board a Delhi-bound train. “We had information about a person coming with a large number of exotic animals from Aizawl. Our searches led to seizure of the live animals. All the animals have been taken to the zoo for

necessary veterinary care,” Gogoi said.

Police informed that Kumar has said he was visiting Aizawl for the first time and a person named Sawma handed over the animals to him inside a hotel on Friday. The animals were to be handed over to a person named Pankaj in Delhi, Kumar has also revealed.

Police, the forest department and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) are interrogating Kumar to unearth the opus operandi in sourcing the exotic animals and the role of the northeast as a supply route in this illegal trade.

Guwahati wildlife divisional forest officer Pradipta Baruah said some of the animals which Kumar was transporting died during the journey.

The other animals in the consignment were one meerkat, an Aldabra tortoise, one giant scorpion, one sugar glider and 13 snakes which are yet to be identified.

“This is the first time that we seized such a large number of exotic animals.

We are yet to pinpoint all the species. This scale of animal trade is something very new to our state. While the rescued animals are under veterinary care, we are interrogating the person to find how they operate in the northeast,” Baruah said.

Vasundhara NE Woman Entrepreneur Ex-servicemen rally in Thoubal award to be conferred in April

New Delhi, Mar 25 (Agencies): The Vas u n d h a r a N E Wo m a n Entrepreneur of the Year award will be conferred on April 26 in New Delhi.

The fourth edition of the awards will be conferred during the two-day Vasundhara NE Woman Entrepreneur’s Conclave 2018 to be held on April 25-26 at the NCUI Convention Centre, Hauz Khas in New Delhi.

It is considered a benchmark for women entrepreneurs in Northeast

India who have reached quantifiable levels of success and excellence by hard work and perseverance.

P a s t Va s u n d h a r a awardees include Lalmuankimi of Mizoram (2012-13), Moirenthem Muktamani Devi of Manipur (2013-14) and Najitara Bori of Assam (2014-15).

The Vasundhara NE Woman Entrepreneur’s Conclave hopes to connect the women leaders from across the eight states of Northeast India to a larger network of stakeholders

and organizations which can extend support in terms of business mentoring and handholding support, finance, technical knowhow and market linkages among other areas of business interest.

Organized by Sreemanta Sankar Mission of Guwahati, the conclave will have exhibitions and display of products from enterprises owned by women in Northeast India, B2B meets and seminar and workshops on prospects and challenges before women entrepreneurs.

D imapu r , M a r 2 5 (NPN): To commemorate the glorious occasion of 183rd Assam Rifles Raising Day, Phundrei Battalion of 9 Sector Assam Rifles conducted an Assam Rifles exservicemen rally for all the Assam Rifles ex-servicemen and their widows residing in Thoubal district, Manipur.

The rally was an institutional reciprocal gesture to acknowledge the contribution of the veterans who have given the best years of their lives to the nation, stated a PRO IGAR (S) press release During the outreach

3 new freshwater fish species discovered in Assam, Manipur Garra biloborostris

Garra substrictorostris I mphal , M a r 2 5 (Agencies): Three new freshwater fish species Garra biloborostris, Garra clavirostris and Garra substrictorostris - have been discovered by a research team from Assam and Manipur, an international journal Zootaxa has reported.

The first two species were discovered from Assam’s Brahmaputra tributaries, Kanamakra stream bordering Bhutan and Diyung River near Haflong, while the third one was found in Leimatak stream, a tributary of the Barak in Manipur.

“Our papers on the new discoveries were submitted some time back, but most of them were accepted only recently following thorough examinations by international reviewers,” said researcher Narengbam Roni of Manipur University.

This 7-8 inch long newly discovered fish species found mostly in torrential hill streams, were known as

Ngamu Sangum in Manipur and as Sil Toka (Nahlo in Dimasa and Nah Kanda in Bodos) in Assam.

According to Prof W Vishwanath, a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) freshwater fish specialist group who guided the researchers, the identification of the new species was examined and evaluated by an expert panel, including one from the IUCN, and submitted to the London-based International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature, which allocates a unique identification key to the species.

Garra clavirostris was discovered jointly by researchers Narengbam Roni and Thaosen Sarbojit of Assam’s Haflong Government College from Diyung River while Garra biloborostris and Garra substrictorostris was discovered by Roni from Kanamakra (Assam) and Leimatak (Manipur) streams.

Gohain reviews progress of projects

Natural gas discovered in Tripura

D imapu r , M a r 2 5 (NPN): Minister of State of Railways Rajen Gohain hold a review meeting with senior railway officials of NFR at Maligaon on Sunday. NFR General manager Sanjive Roy, N. K. Prasad, general manager of construction, M. K. Gupta, member engineering in Railway Board were present in the review meeting where progress of all ongoing projects in Northeast was reviewed by the minister.

AGARTALA, Mar 25 (Agencies): Natural gas has been discovered at Laban Chara of Tulashikar block under Khowai district, Tripura.

A local villager who went to the outskirts of the village to collect some firewood on Friday saw bubbles coming out of water beneath the rocks. He immediately informed the villagers who then informed

Both Roni and Sarbojit have received extensive training in fishery science under Prof Vishwanath.

“So these three fish species can be distinguished from the recently described species and are new to the world,” said Prof Vishwanath, who is also the head of the fishery unit in Manipur University’s life science department.

“In fact, North-East India, with its diverse hill streams has rich species diversity and is home to 32 species out of the 200 recognised (Garra variety in the world). Many more species are awaiting discovery,” he said.

With the new discoveries, Prof Vishwanath’s team has so far discovered nearly 85 freshwater fish species since the discovery of Puntius jayaremi, locally known as Heikak Nga, in Manipur in 1986, adding to the around 250 fish species (including 200 endemic fish species) in Manipur alone.

the local authorities. A team of government officials including the District Magistrate Sandeep Mahatme and ONGC officials visited the spot on Saturday and after several hours of inspection confirmed the news.

“Yes, Natural gas has been found from here which is indeed a great news for the whole state and also for North East India,” said DM Sandeep Mahatme.

GALAXY COACHING CENTRE

ADMISSION OPEN FOR : NPSC/ UPSC (Prelims), BANK P.O & SSC

Correspondent

(Girls Hostel Attached  Limited Seats) Dial : (O) 03862-248365 (M) 9436002701, 9862227758 DC-664

DP-2413

The seized items

DC-665

Air India 50% concession for sending human remains to NE

AIZAWL, MAR 25 (AGENCIES): Air India has recently agreed to give 50 per cent concession to all North Eastern states on cargo fare for shipping their deceased from Chennai to the region, Northeast India Welfare Association Chennai (NEIWAC) said.

According to UNI report, the agreement was made last Friday in Chennai by NEIWAC president Wapang and Sr. Manager, Commercial Cargo Air India DS Narayanan.

It was agreed that for the purpose of sending the mortal remains of North-east people to their respective homes in NE India, they should provide required documents which would be attached to the coffin.

“If all the required documents are produced prior three hours to the flight time and on payment by cash, 50 per cent discount will be given by Air India on these cargo flying from Chennai to the region,” NEIWAC said in a statement.

Garra clavirostris

L. Chase Complex, ICICI Bank Building, Midland, Dimapur.

Drug peddler arrested in Manipur IMPHAL, Mar 25: Manipur police Sunday caught a drug peddler redhanded while selling WY (World is Yours) tablet to drug users.

WY tablet wor th around Rs four lakh in the international market was seized from an individual identified as Laishram Sushilchandra (40). Two toy guns and real bullets which include one round of SLR ammunition, two rounds of AK, one round of 9mm and an empty case along with the four packets (800 pieces of WY in each packet) was recovered from his possession, said police.

A cash amount of Rs 16,080 which the police suspect were from sale proceed was also recovered.

Six alleged drug users were also picked up, the police added.

initiative, which was aimed at providing a compassionate and healing touch to the ex-serviceman in the area, grievances related to their pension and allowances were noted for rectification.

The rally was attended by 65 veterans of Assam Rifles including one widow, one Veer Nari and 10 dependents. Grievance Cell and info kiosks for medical facilities were also put up for the benefit of the exservicemen.

5

DC-622

IMPHAL, Mar 25: Manipur finance minister Sunday warned striking employees that they would not be paid if they refuse to go back to work.

Manipur government employees under the aegis of Joint Administrative Council (JAC) of All Manipur Trade Unions’ Council (AMTUC) and All Manipur Government Employees’ Organization (AMGEO) have been undergoing an indefinite cease-work strike over the demand for adoption of pay structures recommended by 7th Pay Commission.

The strike commenced on March 22 and the striking body had earlier rejected chief minister’s appeal while setting condition that they would resume their duty if only the government gives a commitment to fulfill their demands within a timebound period.

“The principle of no work no pay will be invoked if the striking employees fail to get back to work by Monday,” state deputy chief minister Y Joymkumar who is also finance in-charge warned.

Talking to reporters on the sideline of a public

Northeast

6

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXVIII NO. 108 Dimapur, MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Prism of selfishness

R

ecent incidents involving shooting of targeted victims in Dimapur - Joy Chandra at Nagarjan on March 22 and Rekha Das at Midland on March 23 by yet to be indentified gunmen serves as strong reminder that safety of ordinary citizens is still uncertain. There was another shocking incident on March 17 near Mukhami village when a government employee Lunkholal Singson, working in the veterinary and animal husbandry department was purportedly kidnapped and bludgeoned to death by Abel Awomi and Pikato Shohe. All these shocking incidents took place within a space of one week even as the People’s Democratic Alliance(PDA) coalition assumed power with the promise of securing the safety and rights of the common people.

Every right thinking person including the deputy chief minister in-charge of home has condemned these incidents. Bringing the guilty to book is often understood or taken as an achievement whereas, it is an expected course that follows as a consequence to the law setting its machinery to work. It will instead, be an achievement if the law and other agencies work on ways to wean away frustrated youth or those who take to crime as an easy way out. It would be like scratching the same surface over and over again and therefore, rather than describing the recent spate of violence in parts of the state and in particular, crimes in Dimapur and other parts of Nagaland, as a law and order problem, the issue could be looked at from a broader perspective. One issue that crops up with regard to growing number of crimes in the state involving gunmen etc is that the law appears to be different yardsticks applied. Not too long back, a minister refused to call a spade a spade by suggesting that crimes committed by members allegedly linked or belonging to some outfits cannot be law and order issue but of political nature arising out of the unresolved political issue. That sums up very well the kind of symbiotic relationship that is going on and no wonder the poor helpless and ordinary citizens of Nagaland are made to firmly believe that one can get away with anything if one has the right connections. It would be in the fitness of things for the law enforcement agency in the state to go through all crimes and ascertain how many were arrested, how many were convicted and finally how many actually served their sentences? In this both the police and the judiciary need to put their heads together to coordinate on crime prevention in an effective manner. This has to be put in place by first ensuring that the perception of ‘rule of law’ be made applicable at both the higher and lower levels. The people of Nagaland are indeed concerned with the inherent weakness of the law enforcement system in tackling ordinary crimes but are most distressed by the disinclination of the law enforcement to confront those challenging the authority and rule of established law. The destructive ism-syndrome has been playing havoc in the spheres of both public and government and it is up to the so-called educated, spiritually enlightened and intellectual thinkers to decide as to how far can this destructive element be allowed to wreak havoc due to the selfish nature of the community.

DailyDevotion Maintaining the Proper Relationship …the friend of the bridegroom… —John 3:29 Goodness and purity should never be traits that draw attention to themselves, but should simply be magnets that draw people to Jesus Christ. If my holiness is not drawing others to Him, it is not the right kind of holiness; it is only an influence which awakens undue emotions and evil desires in people and diverts them from heading in the right direction.

A person who is a beautiful saint can be a hindrance in leading people to the Lord by presenting only what Christ has done for him, instead of presenting Jesus Christ Himself. Others will be left with this thought— “What a fine person that man is!” That is not being a true “friend of the bridegroom”— I am increasing all the time; He is not.

To maintain this friendship and faithfulness to the Bridegroom, we have to be more careful to have the moral and vital relationship to Him above everything else, including obedience. Sometimes there is nothing to obey and our only task is to maintain a vital connection with Jesus Christ, seeing that nothing interferes with it. Only occasionally is it a matter of obedience. At those times when a crisis arises, we have to find out what God’s will is. Yet most of our life is not spent in trying to be consciously obedient, but in maintaining this relationship— being the “friend of the bridegroom.” Christian work can actually be a means of diverting a person’s focus away from Jesus Christ. Instead of being friends “of the bridegroom,” we may become amateur providences of God to someone else, working against Him while we use His weapons.

Quotes

Punctuality is one of the cardinal business virtues: always insist on it in your subordinates. ~ Don Marquis

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Pension funds, MFs must stop investing in stocks

T

he Bombay stock market, like most others in the world, has crashed. It has lost about 4000 points in a matter of weeks.

The BSE sensex took a year to gain from 29,663 to touch 36, 443. In about a month it came down to 32,596. The Nifty too crashed below its 10,000 mark to 9998 and is likely to fall further.

It does not look much to the common man. He should be happy with the latest GDP data that shows, as also World Bank and others say, it is poised to rise above 7 percent. Still it is not being considered as a crash and the provident funds, be it EPFO or National Pension Fund are being forced to invest in the stocks exposing millions of employees to unforeseen risks.

The crash now is being ascribed to the trade war started by US President Donald Trump. His sharp hike on duties to protect his home market has led the world trade and stock market into deep crisis. US President Donald Trump signed a presidential memorandum that could impose

tariffs on up to $60 billion of Chinese goods including steel, although the measures have a 30-day consultation period. In retaliation, China unveiled plans to impose tariffs on up to $3 billion of US imports.

The Friday, March 23 crash of 409.73 points is estimated to have cost Rs 1.57 lakh crore to the investors. It means on an average every 100-point sensex loss amounts to Rs 40,000 crore. Since early February it has lost over 4,000 points. By the market logic the total loss to the investors, means also banks, financial institutions, insurance companies and mutual funds apart from individuals, is estimated at over Rs 16 lakh crore. It is not a notional loss. It would add to NPAs of banks and other FIs When the crashes are of small nature, there remains hope of some recovery but when the loss is of such magnitude, the real erosion to the wealth will take a little time to assess.

Once again the banks, insurance companies and mutual funds would take the maximum brunt of it as many investors borrow money to

make quick gains.

In such situation, the pension funds, be it of the government or private would have lot of their wealth wiped off. But the losses would not be of the companies. The losses would be distributed to the employee members. It is a potential risk to the e m - Shivaji ployees and senior citizens who receive monthly pension from these organisations.

Another aspect must be understood. Pension as is being now propagated is neither a dole nor subsidy.

The legal definition for pension is deferred wages.

A part of the wages remain unpaid to the employees during their employment.

That part is paid, as a social security measure, after they are out of job. The concept is that if it is paid during their employment they would spend it and would have nothing when they superannuate.

The society has to do a perspective planning to meet its futuristic needs, called actuary in insurance terms. If it fails in this assessment it can lead to severe societal crisis. The

society needs therefore to take stock of all economic and social activities with due caution and care.

Mostly such occurrences though are known to those in the business are put under wraps so as not to cause a concern. The latest development is not a one-time Sarkar a f f a i r. T h e stock markets in India continued to fall in 2016. By February 16, 2016, the BSE had seen a fall of 26 percent over the previous eleven months.

The reasons given for this included NPAs of Indian banks, “global weaknesses” and “global factors”. In the four months from November 2015 to February 2016, FIIs were reported to have sold equities worth Rs 17,318 crore as, in the opinion of analysts, concerns at that time grew over growth in China.

On November 9, 2016, the BSE crashed by 1689 points, believed by analysts due to the crack down on black money by the Indian government, resulting in frantic selling. The sensex nosedived by 6 percent to 26,902 and the Nifty dropped by 541 pints to

8002. These were said to be due to the demonetization and for the next many weeks the downhill movement continued.

In 2015, crude oil prices tumbled below $30 per barrel. Now the concern has changed to as crude touches over $ 64. Though in either Indian consumer did not gain. The high taxes and unethical daily fixing of retail oil prices continue to erode the pockets of the common man.

Another concern is the weakening rupee. During the past two years it has maintained itself around Rs 65. It should not be solace to an economy that is poised for growth. It pushes down prices of Indian goods in the global market and makes all imports expensive, adding to the cost of infrastructure.

The stock market in reality has little to add to the economy. Its losses, however, are designed in a way that it affects all and erodes the wealth of nonplayers. One has to recall in Indian context the 1992 stock boom and bust - the Harshad Mehta scam. It roiled all and wiped of the Unit Trust of India and mil-

lions of its depositors apart from many banks and LIC. Those NPAs were never recovered and has been written off. Who lost? The investors lost it in terms of lowering of interest rates and hiking of various bank charges. The perpetrators are seldom penalized.

This nation is at a loss to look for ways to make up such losses on the one hand and ways to check the future losses. The looters are smarter than social systems.

The SEBI and its various moves have neither protected shareholders of a company nor could protect them from the market maneuvers.

In the present context, also the employees are likely to be the worst sufferers.

The government must step in. It must call upon all the provident funds and mutual funds to immediately stop from investing in the stock market. Most the financial institutions are pressed by the government agencies to rescue stock market. This must be prevented till the market remains choppy and it is likely to remain so for the rest of 2018 as the trade war may spill beyond.

Post-mortem

C

Negative side of loyalty

An appreciation to DMC CEO

T

he DMC’s CEO ordering of all speeding by. Many building owners the person gives sane critique footpath vendors around the now tie ropes infront of their buildfor the good of the Church. clock tower area to immediately ings inorder to disallow the vendors Blind loyalty to Church for fear of human Church author- stop selling goods and declaring the which again makes the vendors occupy ity thwarts the growth of the area as a vendor free zone is a very all the little spaces available to them wise move which is appreciated by near the roads. So space crunch and Church of God. Loyalty to tribe is one of many people around the vicinity. Such total chaos of traffic movement and the most unpleasant phenom- farsighted and able administrators are pandemonium of human movement ena prevailing in our society a need of the hour and the moment. is a daily routine.

These footpath vendors and the today. It has caused tribalism After the DMC Administrator Moa so much so that the idea of Sangtam took over the charge, one can vegetable hawkers hovering near the oneness or unity is at stake. witness many changes taking place and narrow road create a lot of pandeWhether a decision or rule of things getting done for the welfare of monium for both pedestrians as well a tribe is good or bad, right the public. The long needed repairs and as motorists. Buses and trucks plying or wrong, you are expected restoration work around the town seem have a hard time maneuvering the to be loyal to your tribe. If to be taking at a steady pace. Though market area due to the random parkJesus comes and live today as we feel pity for the poor footpath ven- ing, thanks to those drivers driving the a tribal, his tribe may oust him dors who are earning their livelihood latest cars but without any civilized for speaking the truth and for by selling their items, occupying all sense. After the market sprouted up, espousing the idea of oneness. the sidewalks and pavements and the it has now become a miserable routine Obviously, loyalty is not always little spaces we have in the footpaths for many people which is causing lot good. In politics and leader- by these vendors have been a concern of harassment culminating into a ship, there is lot of injustices for many pedestrians as well as shops dreary habit of arriving late for the simply because we are loyal to too. They should be adjusted to other church service as the obstruction by tribe in a wrong way. When I open spaces like near the state stadium this market causes the delay. We have ask my friends to throw some or behind the supermarket where there another open market site and even ideas on how to bridge trib- are enough wide open spaces for them ready-made market sheds near the alism issue, suggestions on as well as car parking too. It is to be bus and sumo stand behind the Town inter-tribal marriage is often noted that way back in the past, these Hall which can be used on Sundays given. Many villagers abhor vendors have been shifted to other but it is not. Even after the church this idea, but they proclaim that places like the NST central workshop service gets over, one have to yet go we must love one another. It is near the tata parking but they come through an ordeal of negotiating the puzzling. Instead of having dia- back to this clock tower area after particular stretch getting home from logues, discussions and events sometime. So the same old practice this Sunday market which sometimes within one’s tribe, inter-tribal should be checked. take around 20 minutes to half an hour. programs can be organized.

Some may feel these footpath It’s a complete mess. One cannot deny We need to think beyond our vendors are convenient for many that the market is giving some solace clan, village and tribe. The people who are busy and saves them from going to such a far distance as world is vast, billions inhabit time and distance of going to the Dillai gate bazaar or to Khatkhati but this earth. markets but they are wrong. These atleast church-goers too need some Lastly, our concept of vendors cause a lot of congestion on all relief from the chronic traffic snarls, loyalty to nation is flawed in sides. They cause not only traffic jams atleast on Sundays. many aspects. Nagas, for want but also human jams in these narrow Last but not the least, Sir, after of freedom and nation, have paths. Push, pull and shove seem to you took over as the CEO of the ruined and destroyed many be a daily sight especially during the DMC, the Dimapur town is now seeprecious lives. The notion school rush hours. ing beautiful renovated footpaths with that one must be loyal has The Sunday market running protective railings are a splendid sight propelled many to take wrong at the Tajen Ao (old circular road) to see. The broken slabs over the drains actions which are against the stretching from the clock tower till too are being now covered and repaired Almighty who is above all na- near the Bishop’s House is creating a which is welcomed by all and sundry. tions and peoples. Many may lot of harassment for the commuters. You are truly appreciated and deserve not know that our silence and a thousand claps. We need more of fear-loyalty have brought about The lives of many little children who young dynamic and sincere officers are attending their Sundayschools are numerous obnoxious elements like you to move ahead and progress into our society which cannot endangered as all the footpaths and in these changing times. Keep up your be restored easily. As if nation the pavements are occupied by these good work. is more important than life, footpath vendors and children have to Jonah Achumi many have perpetrated barbaric walk on the narrow roads with vehicles acts in the name of nation. It’s time for the public to be with those who reasonably raise voice and bark for the common good. Many a times, the public, instead of siding with those who rationally speak out, stifle them and advise them to be loyal to the so called national workers. This is a disease in Sir, our society.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Police personnel on duty, Mobile In this article, I’m not Unit DEF and South Police Station on 24th March 2018 between 7:35pm to encouraging people to unreasonably protest, rebel and 8:30 pm, whose swift and prompt action led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle. act violently. I’m just trying It’s utterly shocking to see that thief has become so notoriously bold to lift a to propagate the idea that car even few metres away from the glare of the owner as it happened on the loyalty does not always bring said date and time when a notorious car lifter suddenly drove away a car as good things. Blind loyalty is soon as the owner went inside ATM booth at Paramedical. Within some 30 detrimental. Therefore, though minutes of informing the police, the car was retrieved though the thief managed there are many good aspects of to escape. I also extend my appreciation to a kind hearted and very supportive loyalty, it is extremely impor- taxi driver (Rengma) and his friend (Sumi) who gave chase to the thief and tant to know and remember remained with me till the end. If notorious brat (car lifter) exists, good citizen that loyalty is not always good. (taxi driver and his friend), conscious neighboursand dutiful workers (police Know the negative aspects of personnel) too exist in our society which feels us with pride. Pray God reward you for your good deeds. loyalty.

Z. Rhakho, Paramedical, Kohima Liba Hopeson 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.

hildren are taught to be obedient, faithful and loyal. Infidelity is often discouraged at homes and educational institutions.

Thus, the title of this article may bemuse some mind. But, is loyalty always good? In the twentieth century, a renowned philosopher and Noble Laureate by the name Bertrand Russell remarked in a broadcast that ~Iloyalty is always evil~I. Reading this, one shouldn’t instantly conclude that he was irrational, for it was an exaggerated statement, and he knew it.

In the book, ‘Nagas Essay for Responsible Change’, Dr. Venusa Tunyi, Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Hyderabad University, stated, “Russell’s proclamation was meant to challenge the unexamined thoughts and traditions of the people of his era. During his time, the evil face of loyalty was visible in nationalism.

Nationalism culminated in the form of World War II. Loyalty comes with a price. The price is at times bigger and costlier than we first thought”.

From philosophical perspective too, Venusa writes, “loyalty is a dangerous thing.

It is the opposite of thinking, thinking rationally and nobly”.

Modern education in India was not introduced with the purpose of exploring and preserving our values and beliefs.

Rather it was introduced to produce a work force and to serve their colonial agenda, to establish the superiority of the western culture. The colonizers enslaved the minds of the colonized; education system and policies were framed in such a way that the subjects could be manipulated and dominated. In the words of Venusa, “Unconditional loyalty to a school of thought turns one into a dogmatic and exclusive thinker. Such a person stops listening to others. He or she is full of himself or herself and of ideology he or she is committed to”. One of his professors intimated that “Ideas cannot grow without intercourse”. He was then making a mockery of philosophers who only seem to take delight in musing over philosophical ideas of their great and beloved gurus within their enclosed rooms and refuse to step out onto the other corridors of learning.

Do you recognize the negative side of loyalty? The importance of having proper structure, rules and regulations in institutes, church, village, state and nation is commonly held. Disorganization and disorderliness leads to dysfunction. At times, I discuss with some of my friends that we Baptists are too independent that, our style of functioning in many ways impede growth

and progress. Thus, we need to rethink and reconsider on the whole concept of Baptists’ Church Autonomy. For, without proper structure and regulation, certain unwanted elements are bound to happen.

However, when an institute is too rigid that there is no room or opportunity for the citizens to critique and comment, it dwindles. So at times, when someone from a school or college say or remark something very contrary to the rule or framework of the institute, if he is sensible or reasonable, instead of always silencing him and branding him as “rebellious” and “mischief ”, his voice needs to be heard, considered and analyzed. And if the authority of the institute finds such individual’s idea valuable and compelling, even though it would be somewhat shameful to the authority, they need to humbly admit their flaws and reform the system. Such reasonable students ought to be acknowledged and utilized.

Many institutes might have not enhanced because without considering the truth, they always stifle the voices of everyone who are not loyal to them.

Is loyalty being abused?

Do you see negative aspects of loyalty in our society? If you don’t, think of loyalty to village, clan, tribe, etc. Though a projected leader of a particular village is not trustworthy, we are expected to be loyal to the Village authority, abide by the Village Council’s decision, and follow the leader. If one or two persons, or few, choose not to abide by the resolutions adopted, they are considered as traitors and betrayers. Some villages even take resolution not to give leadership opportunity anymore to such people. The resolution not to co-operate with such persons is adopted by the village authority or council.

This is a sorry state of affairs in many villages today - wrong concept of ‘loyalty to village’ breeds it.

Even in the church, loyalty does not always produce desirable results. Loyally following the man-made rules or traditions of the Church which are unbiblical do not make you a good Christian. In Church meetings or discussions, thus, it is advised not to take decisions always based on majority basis.

If ninety nice percent of the Church decides on something and one percent disagrees, yet the minority’s view is purely Biblical, then, the Church needs to endorse the minority’s view. At times, the structure of the Church may be questioned by an individual; in such situation, the Church should not always negatively consider him as an awful dissident. Think deeply and evaluate whether

Reader’s Post

Prompt action of police and sensible citizens

National

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Panel suggests compulsory minimum work period for doctors

New Delhi, Mar 25 (AGENCIES): A parliamentary panel has recommended that a “minimum compulsory period” of working within the country be fixed for doctors, asserting that a large number of medics studying in government medical colleges on taxpayers’ money leave the country at the first given opportunity.

The department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare has also asked the health ministry to explore the possibility of “restructuring and revamping” the Dental Council of India, the Nursing Council of India and other such councils for their effective regulation as envisaged by National Medical Commission Bill, 2017.

Observing that there had been a loss of credibility of the Medical Council of India (MCI), the committee has recommended that all the members of the proposed National Medical

Ram Gopal Yadav

Commission mandatorily declare their professional and commercial involvements. The recommendations were made by the panel in its report on the National Medical Commission Bill 2017, tabled in Parliament last week.

“The Committee is also given to understand that a large number of doctors who study in government medical colleges at the cost of the taxpayers money leave the country at the first given opportunity.”

“The committee recommends that in all such cases a minimum compulsory period of working within the country be prescribed

before such doctors can be allowed to serve outside the country,” the committee chaired by Prof Ram Gopal Yadav said.

It also recommended for consideration a compulsory one year rural posting for all doctors graduating out of medical schools subject to the condition that the requisite infrastructure facilities in terms of supporting staff, decent remuneration, necessary medical equipment and appropriate security are made available so that their training can be appropriately utilised for dealing with shortage of doctors in rural and remote areas.

The committee observed that medical health care system encompasses health professionals working in the area of para-medical disciplines like physiotherapy, optometry and other allied fields where there is no standardisation of curriculum or regulation of the quality of education and practice.

It said that the current bill presents a policy window for the government to overhaul the regulatory oversight of other streams of health professions as well.

“The Committee is of the view that the department should explore the possibility of restructuring and revamping the Dental Council of India, the Nursing Council of India and other such councils so that there is effective regulation of their education and practice similar to the reform process as envisaged by National Medical Commission Bill, 2017,” the panel said.

“The Committee, accordingly, recommends for formulation of regulatory, licensing or accreditation norms for all paramedical and allied health care professions like physiotherapy, optometry, etc. so as to regulate such professionals and their scope of practice in various clinical settings,” it added.

Rahul attacks PM Modi on use of NaMo app data N e w D e l h i , M AR 2 5 (agencies):Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over allegations of data sharing from his official App without users’ consent, a charge the BJP trashed. Gandhi also accused the media of “burying” the story. His attack on the Prime Minister was based on a media report in which a French vigilante hacker has purportedly alleged that data was stolen from his official App — NaMo App — without consent of the users.

Rahul Gandhi “Hi! My name is Narendra Modi. I am India’s Prime Minister. App, I give all your data to my friends When you sign up for my official in American companies,” Gandhi

K Y M C

said on Twitter. In the tweet, he also attached a news story titled, “Data theft allegations reaches PM Modi’s doorstep, French vigilante hacker’s stunning revelation”.

BJP reacted on Twitter saying, it did not expect “any better” from the Congress chief. It also said the data is used only for analytics using third party service, similar to Google Analytics “We also take this opportunity to encourage Rahul Gandhi to download NaMo App to keep himself appraised of the good things happening in India,” the BJP4India said in a tweet. It put out several tweets on the matter.

Congress slams BJP MLA’s remarks on women

Pannalal Shakya

B h o pa l , M AR 2 5 ( A G E N C IE S ) : B J P MLA from Guna, Pannalal Shakya, came under fire from the Congress on Sunday for saying crimes against women were rising in the state because ‘girls kept boyfriends’.

The first time MLA from Guna, who was speaking at a function at Girl’s Degree College in Guna for distribution of smartphones on Saturday, said, “Ladkiyan boyfriends kyun banati hain (why do girls have boyfriends?)...

Nahin banana chahiye aur atyachar bhi nahin honge (Girls should refrain from having boyfriends and atrocities against them will end).

When contacted, Shakya stuck to his statement. “I am against western culture and my speech was based on that only,” he said on Sunday.

According to National Crime Records Bureau figures, Madhya Pradesh recorded more than 8,000 cases of sexual harassment against women in 2016, the third highest in the country.

Earlier, Shakya had triggered a controversy by calling Indian men’s cricket team captain Virat Kohli and actor Anushka Sharma unpatriotic for getting married in Italy.

7

Punjab tops country in illegal drugs recovery: NCB report New Delhi, MAR 25 (agencies): Seizure of narcotic drugs such as opium, heroin and cannabis in the country has increased by more than 300% in the last five years with 2017 witnessing an all-time high recovery of over 3.6 lakh kg of narcotics, according to the latest Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) report.

Among the states last year, the maximum opium seizure was made from Punjab at 505.86 kg followed by Rajasthan at 426.95 kg. The maximum amount of heroin was seized in Gujarat at 1,017 kg followed by Punjab at 406 kg.

A haul of 2,551 kg opium (used to produce heroin), 2,146-kg heroin, 3,52,379-kg of cannabis (ganja or weed), 3,218 kg of hashish (cannabis resin) and 69 kg of cocaine (party drug smuggled into India mainly by west African traffickers) was seized by various anti-narcotic agencies in the country last year, the highest seizure of narcotics since 2013.

While the last year saw the total narcotic seizures at over 3.60 lakh kg, it was 3.01 lakh kg in 2016, over 1 lakh kg in 2015, 1.1 lakh kg in 2014 and about 1 lakh kg in 2013, the NCB report accessed by PTI said. The year gone by also saw the maximum number of cases of interdiction of these illegal drugs in the last five years, generally abused by the young and a few other categories.

The latest repor t, brought out after compiling data from all states and

The NCB is the national agency for undertaking antinarcotics measures and enforcement action.

agencies, was unveiled by Union home minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday.

The NCB is the national agency to coordinate drug law enforcement activities in the country by involving various state agencies, police and central departments and it functions under the ministry of home affairs (MHA).

Barring hashish and cocaine, all other narcotic drugs saw their maximum seizures, over the last five years, in 2017. NCB officials attributed the highest seizure of these drugs in the last year to an increased amount of awareness and enhanced capabilities of drug law enforcement agencies to interdict illegal cache.

“Not only in the last five years, the seizures in the years prior to that were no match to what has been recovered and seized in 2017,” a senior official said. Cannabis seizure was the highest in Andhra Pradesh at 78,767 kg followed by Odisha at 55,875 kg during 2017. While Uttar Pradesh accounted

for the maximum hashish (also known as charas) seizure at 702 kg followed

by Madhya Pradesh at 625 kg, the national capital of Delhi had the highest seizure of cocaine at 30 kg followed by Maharashtra at 21.83 kg.

The report also talked about trends for 2017 witnessed in smuggling and trafficking of these illegal drugs. Opium, it said, is trafficked from Manipur, Jharkhand, Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh to other parts of the country while major trafficking of heroin in India takes place through the IndiaPakistan border in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir and subsequently to other states.

“There is a trend of trafficking of charas from J&K to Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Goa and Gujarat.

Charas is also trafficked from Nepal into India,” it said. Talking about cocaine trends, the report said its seizures have been made “mostly at the airports”.

K Y M C

8

‘Biz with nil tax liability to file GST bi-annually’

KAKURO

unskilled labour, many of which have high automation potential.

It further said that within services, sub-sectors like hospitality and retail are likely to experience dramatic transformations as a result of automation, digitalisation and the growing use of data analytics.

Education, healthcare, tourism, transport and storage enterprises have significant growth potential, creating 3-3.5 million jobs a year, compared to the 0.5-1 million jobs they currently create, it added.

Construction will remain a significant job creator as the government continues to develop national infrastructure, it said.

Travel and tourism is also expected to become a high-growth industry by 2025, it added.

The report found that even as government-led skilling initiatives are mostly sector specific, they are not broad-based enough to adequately prepare young aspirants for technology leddisruptions in the future.

“Government-led skilling initiatives are predominantly oriented towards sector specific technical or vocational training”.

Pure-play gold loan players Telecom to create 10 mn jobs in 5 years tapping newer asset classes

No. 3439 Yesterday’s solution No. 3438

No. 2465 Yesterday’s solution No. 2464

Across 1 Stick held by African explorer (4) 3 Being most dilatory, I started afresh (8) 9 Draw animal, filling in only half (7) 10 Unexpected defeat for group at university? (5) 11 Wireless announcement in port (5) 12 No longer bound to get involved in duet (6) 14 Be back in time for discussion (6) 16 Collect James the actor (6) 19 Nut cracked for old man (6) 21 Cheers! Old man’s providing food in bar (5) 24 Means to rebuild minister’s house (5) 25 Divert public besieged by soldiers twice (7) 26 A key adviser somewhere in Australia (8) 27 Biblical king finally lacking as leading man (4) Down 1 Pass over Oregon and notice nothing in state (8) 2 Famous saw (5) 4 Refuge unknown in a squalid district (6) 5 Cow kept by aged auntie (5) 6 Oriental festival on the first of November (7) 7 Carry child on back of bike (4) 8 Arrange roster for holiday location (6) 13 Do well with old Shakespearean duke (8) 15 Rest that’s essential for tightrope-walker? (7) 17 Dress that makes a heartless tyrant rage (6) 18 A party radical is revered (6) 20 Character from Greece, part of a fearsome gang (5) 22 Hands, we hear, hesitate (5) 23 Outer Mongolia supports Forster or Austen novel (4)

Permanent Post: Mine urgently required manager and office staff.

Qualification HSLC to Graduate L o d g i n g, f o o d i n g, m e d i c a l treatments and PF facilities.. limited post.

Contact us: Dimapur-7629015548 Kohima-8787468902/9401088749, Imphal-7629875036 K-685

for Driving Learners at

FRESH DRIVING 4th Mile, Dimapur, Nagaland Contact : 9612729738 7005384186

WANTED

Computer Teacher : DCA Contact : 9089029999

FOR SALE Alto LXI - 2008 : Rs. 1.75 Swift ZXI - 2006 : Rs. 1.90 Negotiable

Contact : 8974807122

Duncan Basti, Near Old S.M. College Dimapur : Nagaland

ADMISSION GOING ON

DP-2276

Admission Open

1st STEER DRIVING SCHOOL Interested person may Contact at : 8794217783/8131941708

ADMISSION GOING ON

Grace Theological College (Correspondence Courses) Affiliated to IIMRC

COURSE OFFERED :

B.Th/M.Div/D.Div/ D.Miss/D.Com/D.Th and Ph.D Mokokchung Phone No : 9402988869 8787490901 DP-2391

SMART JOBS!

Urgently needs 48 M/F, 10 Graduate, Freshers also.

Age Limit : 18-30 Income : 5000 to 30000 P.M, Bonus & Promotions FIRST COME FIRST BASIS! Contact Dimapur : 7662894889

DP-2382

No. 8820 Yesterday’s solution No. 8819

nance in May 2016 and now has its presence in housing finance through its subsidiary Muthoot Homefin.

The report says with strong balance sheets but limited opportunity to grow the flagship gold loan portfolio, gold loan players are expected to grow their balance sheet size with diversification int0 non-gold products going ahead.

These entities are also expected to focus on increasing geographical diversification. “With significant experience of the workforce solely in collateral (gold jewelry) based lending, alignment of people and the processes to cash flow-based lending remains critical to achieve healthy growth while maintaining the quality of the portfolio,” the report says.

infrastructure and services companies. “We are increasingly seeing manufacturing line coming to India”.

LAND FOR SALE Location : BAMUNPUKHURI B, Near Govt. Middle School (less than 5 kms from Zion Hospital).

Area : plots available from Rs. 5 lakhs onwards *Approach road and drainage to every plot. *All plots JCB levelled Price : Rs. 110 per sq. ft.

Contact : 9436622166, 7005204949

DP-1972A

their portfolios.

The largest gold loan player, Muthoot Finance, with assets under management of Rs 27,608 crore, and Manappuram Finance, with an AUM of Rs 11,432 crore as of September 2017, have diversified through acquisitions and entered new asset classes.

Manappuram Finance, which entered the microfinance space by acquiring Asirvad Microfinance in February 2015, and home loans by acquiring Milestone Housing Company (now Manappuram Home Finance) in February 2014, since then also entered the loan against property and vehicle finance segments in FY15.

Muthoot Finance, on the other hand, acquired Belstar Investment & Fi-

in an interview.

According to a CIEL HR report, since last year the telecom sector has already lost around 40,000 jobs and the trend is likely to continue for the next sixnine months, with the total figure expected to reach 80,000-90,000.

Kochhar said TSSC, under the National Skill Development Corporation, expects major demand for employment to come from emerging technologies like machine-to-machine communications, followed by telecom manufacturing,

DP-2409

Mumbai, Mar 25 (PTI): With stable bottomlines and stronger balance sheets, but limited room for expansion, larger gold loan companies are diversifying into newer areas to maintain growth momentum. The diversification by these non-banking finance lenders have been either through acquisitions or by direct lending.

“With moderate growth in gold loan portfolio and availability of capital cushion, gold loan NBFCs have started looking at diversification into other asset classes such as microfinance, SME finance, affordable housing,” says Care Ratings in a weekend report. Huge customer database, operating systems and established brand names are giving these companies some comfort in diversifying

NEW DELHI, Mar 25 (PTI): The telecom industry, which has been been witnessing job losses due to consolidation, is expected to create over 10 million employment opportunities in the next five years, as per the skill development body for the sector.

“There are 4 million people employed in the telecom sector and by the end of five years, 14.3 million people will be employed in telecom as well as telecom manufacturing,” Telecom Sector Skill Council (TSSC) CEO S P Kochhar told PTI

VACANCY

LAND FOR SALE at Padum Pukhuri Block - V

LIBRARIAN : 1 POST Edu. Qualification : B.A/ B.Th/ M.Div. with 6 Months to 1 Year Library Training Interested Candidate may contact : Principal - 9436001730 Registrar - 7005052806 FAITH THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY Jotsoma, Kohima, Nagaland Email: principal @ ftskma.com Website: www.ftskma.com

Area : 8500 sq. ft.

Rate : Rs. 180/- sq. ft.

Contact No : 9862046300

LAND FOR SALE

at KUSHIABILL near Christian Fellowship Sector No. 3 Dry Land with Brick Wall Fencing.

Area : 2 Bighas (28800 sq. ft.)

Price : Rs. 130/- per sq. ft.

(Negotiable) No broker Contact : 9436006538 DP-2379 9612834384

ROOMS FOR RENT (For OFFICE and SHOP purpose)

Building opposite War Cemetery, Kohima

: 2 Rooms Available with bathroom Size in sq. ft. : 1000 and 420 Second Floor : 2 Rooms Available with bathroom Size in sq. ft. : 440 and 330 Rent Negotiable Contact : +91 9819819709 (12 PM – 4 PM)

DP-2408

Su doku

Mumbai, Mar 25 (PTI): Technology led-disruptions in the country will bring in remote and flexible work opportunities, creating new employment avenues for women in the future, according to a report.

However, women are also likely to be impacted by the automation of routine tasks, particularly in the IT sector, according to a white paper on the future of jobs and skilling in India by Quest Alliance, in partnership with Tandem Research and supported by Microsoft Philanthropies.

The white paper has been generated by ‘patchingup’ insights from the limited data and research available on the subject and in consultation with key informants within industry, policy making and education.

In India, 59 per cent of the labour force comprised women having low-skill back office processing jobs delivering back office support, call centre work and data transcription services, among others, it added.

It revealed that women also face cultural barriers to using and acquiring new technological and learning tools, and are thus often assigned to tasks involving

K-801

Crossword

Plan for North East, as well as boosting connectivity to Andaman with optical fibre network, and others,” he said.

Other gover nment projects that BSNL is executing include providing bandwidth to Lakshadweep Islands, and connecting remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh, he said.

“Government is investing in large connectivity projects, where private players are not going. BSNL is being used as one of the vehicles to execute those projects and we do that work on behalf of government,” he said.

Shrivastava said that the telecom corporation will look to install 12,000 mobile towers for 3G services and 10,000 for 4G services.

NEW DELHI, Mar 25 (PTI): A merger of staterun trading firms MMTC and STC is on the cards and the matter is under process, Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu has said.

“That is something which is already on cards because STC unfortunately has become a sick company.

Therefore, there are some measures which are being taken already and this matter is under process,” Prabhu told PTI. He said this while replying to a question whether the government is moving ahead on the proposal to merge Metals & Minerals Trading Corporation of India (MMTC) and State Trading Corporation (STC).

Automation, tech to create new work opportunities for women

First Floor

K-806

New Delhi, Mar 25 (PTI): State-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) will invest about Rs 4,300 crore to expand network in 2018-19, and another Rs 5,000-6,000 crore is likely to be the utilised for government telecom projects, according to a top official.

The investment of Rs 4,300 crore earmarked for BSNL’s own expansion will primarily go into strengthening the mobile network, upgrading broadband infrastructure and strengthening the core network, its Chairman and Managing Director Anupam Shrivastava told PTI. “Rs 5,000 to 6,000 crore will be spent on the government projects like Bharat Net, Network for Spectrum, the Comprehensive Telecom Development

Suresh Prabhu

NEW DELHI, Mar 25 (PTI): Indian economy particularly exports may be impacted if the global trade war escalates further, industry body Assocham said.

“If the tariff war escalates into a full-scale global trade war, it would have a collateral damage for the Indian economy as well, with the country’s exports taking a hit, current account deficit facing pressure and the GDP taking a setback,” the chamber said in a statement.

It said that the measures taken by the US may not have a direct impact on India but the collateral damage could be in the form of adverse impact on the overall sentiment.

“Even if India chooses to take a responsive action on its imports, the impact on our exports could be more even as the volatility in the foreign exchange rates would also rise,” it added.

The chamber asked the government to formulate a backup plan which should include opening bilateral trade with key trading partners, to insulate the country from the impacts of protectionist measures.

DP-2393

BSNL to invest Rs 4,300 cr for network expansion

Thereafter, the input tax credit would be reconciled with the suppliers’ tax paid invoice. The official said taxpayers having annual turnover below Rs 1.5 crore would not be required to quote harmonised system of nomenclature (HSN) in their return form.

AMRG & Associates Partner Rajat Mohan said reduction in the number of returns and spreading out return filing date for businesses should solve most of the complications.

“However, anxiousness around matching the tax credit with tax payments still exists, trade and industry need to witness the extent to which credit matching mechanics would be made seamless, effortless and automated with the collective wisdom of software experts at GSTN,” Mohan said.

The GST Council at its meeting in November last year had set up a Committee for Simplification of return design under GST Network Chairman, and tasked it to come up with a simplified return form for taxpayers with nil liability.

STC, Project & Equipment Corporation of India (PEC) and MMTC are under the administrative control of the ministry.

Earlier, the commerce ministr y had commissioned a study to work out a new structure for three state-owned trading firms MMTC, STC and PEC. While the government wholly owns PEC, it has about 90 per cent stake in MMTC and STC. The merger of MMTC and STC would result in synergy of operations. MMTC and STC were created in 1963 and 1956, respectively.

PEC Ltd was carved out of the STC in 1971-72.

According to industry observers, these state trading companies have lost their relevance as well as business following liberalisation.

MMTC used to be a canalising agency for import and export of non-ferrous metals and fertilisers. Similarly, STC was a canalising agency for imports of essential items of mass consumption such as wheat, pulses, sugar and edible oils.

PEC was engaged in export and import of machinery and railway equipment.

Global trade war may impact India: Assocham

DP-2201

by 10th of next month, while others can file return by 20th, the official added.

The number of returns filed by both small and large taxpayers would be 12 in a year. When GST was implemented on July 1, businesses were mandated to file three returns a month, and one annual return, taking the total number of returns in a year to 37.

However, businesses complained about the complex nature of the filing process and also faced glitches on GST Network system.

Following this, the GST Council set up a committee to suggest a simplified return filing process. “The idea is to make return filing process simple and implement it in a phased manner,” the official said, adding that initially would be simple and on the basis of experience gained, more features would be added over time.

The official said after last date of filing of the return, businesses will get three months to rectify their returns by adding, modifying details or correcting the missing invoices.

STC, MMTC merger on cards: Suresh Prabhu

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

K-800

NEW DELHI, Mar 25 (PTI): Businesses having zero tax liability for six consecutive months under GST may soon get relief once the proposal to allow such entities to file returns only twice a year gets the GST Council’s nod.

According to recent data, as much as 40 per cent of return filers under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime have nil tax liability and will not have to file monthly returns once the new simplified return filing procedure is finalised.

The GST Council, headed by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and comprising his state counterparts, will at its next meeting consider the proposal to simplify the GST return forms.

“Taxpayers whose liability is nil for six consecutive months will be required to file six-monthly return,” an official told PTI. As per the proposal prepared by the revenue authorities, the return filing date would be spread out.

Businesses having annual turnover of up to Rs 1.5 crore will have to file return

business

MISSING

NAME : MENNGAM KONYAK F/NAME : KANWANG KONYAK M/NAME : TOIMEI KONYAK Complexion : Wheatish Height 4ft 8 Inch; Age : 13 Yrs Address : River Belt Colony Last seen : 18.02.2018 at around 1.45 PM at Notun Bosti Junction wearing black long sleeve and off white pants Please contact : 9856891107 8575959394 DP-1564

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Protesters rally in US for gun control

Washington, Mar 25 (IANS): Tens of thousands of people demonstrated on Saturday in Parkland, Florida, where a February 14 school shooting left 17 people dead, to demand greater gun control legislation. According to media reports, at least 20,000 people gathered in Pine Trail park, around two miles from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where former student Nikolas Cruz, 19, killed 14 students and three teachers with an assault rifle.

The students, parents and other members of this South Florida community attending the demonstration were united in their call, chanting “enough is enough”, Efe reported.

Speaking at the rally, Marjory Stoneman Douglas student Samantha Mayor, who was shot in the leg during the incident, said “change was due before 17 lives were brutally taken from such innocent souls.”

Mayor and other fellow students paid tribute to those who were killed during the shooting and urged lawmakers to pass responsible gun control legislation.

Casey Sherman, another student who survived the shooting, said that those

Looking west away from the stage, the crowd fills Pennsylvania Avenue during the “March for Our Lives” rally in support of gun control, Saturday, March 24, 2018, in Washington. (AP/PTI)

17 people did not die in vain, pointing to the #NeverAgain movement that emerged in Parkland and Saturday’s demonstrations, which, according to organizers, have taken place in 844 different locations in the United States and abroad.

Tony Montalto, father of Gina Montalto, one of

the victims, said “the only way to get the change we are demanding here today is for both political parties to stop blaming each other and come together for an agreement.”

“We need action,” he said, while acknowledging recent gun control legislation approved in Florida.

After the Parkland shooting, the Florida Legislature passed a bill increasing the minimum age to buy firearms from 18 to 21 and imposing a threeday waiting period on gun purchases The law, however, does not include a ban on the sale of assault rifles, as was de-

manded by many students, parents and Democratic lawmakers. Several other gun control demonstrations are being held in Florida, including in Miami Beach, Palm Beach and Boca Raton, were at least 4,000 people gathered, chanting slogans against the National Rifle Association.

9

On Palm Sunday, pope urges youth to raise their voices Vatican City, Mar 25 (Agencies): Pope Francis on Palm Sunday urged young people not to be silent and let their voices be heard, even in the face of corrupt or silent elders.

The pope’s message comes on the heels of a meeting of young Catholics who told the Vatican they want a more transparent and authentic church, and a day after hundreds of thousands marched in youth-led rallies across the United States to demand greater gun control, reported AP. “The temptation to silence young people has always existed,” Francis said. “There are many ways to silence young people and make them invisible. ... There are many ways to sedate them, to keep them from getting involved, to make their dreams flat and dreary, petty and plaintive. “ But he told youths in his homily that “you have it in you to shout,” even if “we older people and leaders, very often corrupt, keep quiet.” As the Roman Catholic Church enters Holy Week, retracing the story of the crucifixion of Jesus and his resurrection three days later on Easter Sunday,

Pope Francis (File Photo)

Francis urged youth to join those who offer praise, and not the masses calling for crucifixion.

“Dear young people, the joy that Jesus awakens in you is a source of anger and irritation to some, since a joyful person is hard to manipulate,” the pontiff said.

Some 300 youths meeting at the Vatican this week prepared a document for next October’s synod of bishops at the Vatican focusing on to help youths better find their way in the church. The document, which was presented to Francis on Sunday, asked church leaders to address the

unequal roles of women in the church and how technology is abused.

Before his traditional Sunday prayer at the end of Mass, the pope recalled the importance World Youth Day, marked this year on Palm Sunday at a diocesan level rather than as a big international gathering.

The pope’s message also resonated with the Saturday protests across the United States for tougher laws to fight gun violence, a movement galvanized by the school shooting last month in Parkland, Florida, that left 17 people dead.

Pak court acquits 20 of lynching Christian couple

Japan PM Shinzo Abe pledges France honours policeman who swapped with hostage constitution change amid scandal

Lahore, Mar 25 (PTI): A Pakistani anti-terrorism court has acquitted 20 people accused of burning alive a Christian man and his pregnant wife for committing blasphemy in the outskirts of Lahore in 2014.

The couple, Shahzad Masih and his wife Shama, who were working as labourers at a brick kiln in Kot Radha Kishan area, were lynched and burned alive by a mob of around 1,000 people over accusations that the couple desecrated the Quran in November 2014.

A local prayer leader had allegedly provoked the villagers through announcement from area mosques against the couple. The couple was brutally tortured, dragged and thrown into the furnace of the kiln by the mob.

The autopsy report submitted to the Supreme Court in December 2014 had stated that the couple was alive when they were thrown into the kiln.

TOKYO, Mar 25 (PTI): Prime Minister Shinzo Abe vowed today to press on with his controversial move to amend Japan’s pacifist constitution, undeterred by a political scandal that has dented his popularity.

Abe’s political capital is dwindling due to a widening scandal over the cut-price sale of government land to one of his supporters, with the opposition suggesting his wife Akie may have played a role.

The scandal worsened when finance ministry bureaucrats admitted altering official records of the sales, erasing references to Abe and his wife as well as other political figures.

“I will thoroughly investigate and show the whole picture of what happened,” Abe told the annual meeting of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

“And I will fulfil my duty by rebuilding the (government) organisation so that this will not happen

again,” he said, reiterating his resolve to stay in power.

Abe has denied any involvement by him or his wife in the case but protesters have staged rallies across the nation. His approval rating has fallen to its lowest level since his return to power at the end of 2012.

National attention is turning to parliamentary testimony scheduled for Tuesday by Nobuhisa Sagawa, formerly the head of the finance ministry department that oversaw the land deal.

Despite his fading popularity, Abe told the party

Arnaud Beltrame

of France has been touched by this.” French President Emmanuel Macron previously said Beltrame, 44, “fell as a hero” and “showed exceptional courage.”

“Arnaud Beltrame died in the service of the nation

to which he had already given so much,” Macron said in a statement. “In giving his life to end the deadly plan of a jihadi terrorist, he fell as a hero.” Residents have been laying flowers in front of the Trebes supermarket where the attacker seized hostages Friday.

The director of the national gendarme service is meeting Sunday in Carcassonne with Beltrame’s widow and Macron has also ordered a national memorial for Beltrame. President Donald Trump praised the heroism of the French police in a Sunday morning tweet, and that it shows the need for stronger measures

against ISIS. Trump said “France honors a great hero,” citing the bravery of police officer Arnaud Beltrame who died after “swapping places with hostage in ISIS related terror attack.” He added that there’s “so much bravery around the world” in the fight against ISIS but adds, “Even stronger measures needed, especially at borders!” Attacker Radouane Lakdim was killed by police after Beltrame helped them storm the market when he surreptitiously left his cell phone on so that police outside the supermarket could hear what was going on inside.

PERFECT SMILE DENTAL CARE

DP-1925

Shinzo Abe (File Photo)

gathering he was committed to changing the constitution, imposed by the United States on the defeated nation after World War II. Abe said he wants to end the debate over the constitutionality of Japan’s military, officially known as the Self-Defence Forces (SDF). The constitution says Japan renounces war and will not maintain land, sea or air forces.

Scholars have long argued about whether the existence of the SDF is constitutional.

The military is well regarded by the general public, and there is widespread acceptance of the government’s traditional view that they should be used only for self-defence.

Abe, however, in 2015 expanded the role of the Japanese forces to include the defence of friendly nations, prompting protests from scholars and voters alike that the change violated the constitution.

Paris, Mar 25 (Agencies): France honored the heroic officer who died after taking the place of a supermarket employee during a terrorist attack perpetrated by an Islamic militant that left four people dead, as President Trump said Sunday it shows the need for stronger measures against the Islamic State terror group.

Survivors, victims and mourners packed the SaintEtienne-de-Trebest church for Sunday’s special mass honoring Lt. Col. Arnaud Beltrame and the three others who were killed. Bishop Alain Planet, of Carcassonne and Narbonne, said Beltrame’s sacrifice helped save the nation.

Members of the region’s Muslim community were among those mourning at the special Palm Sunday service. The manager of the supermarket sat in the front row, alongside her husband, the town mayor. The bishop of Carcassonne and Narbonne, Alain Planet, hailed Beltrame’s “extraordinary devotion,” saying “the whole

In recent weeks, they have cut the Eastern Ghouta into three separate pockets, forcing rebels to negotiate withdrawals.

Saturday’s evacuations from the towns of Zamalka, Arbin and Ain Tarma had been due to start in the morning but buses only arrived in the afternoon.

Footage showed the buses queuing at a crossing point into the enclave before travelling along a route cleared of wreckage and unexploded shells and mines.

Under the agreement between government forces and Faylaq al-Rahman, some 7,000 people in total will be driven to oppositionheld territory in north-western Idlib province.

On Sunday, residents in Arbin were packing in preparation for more evacu-

DP-2202

Above High School Road Petrol Pump & Near Directorate of Employment Office-Bayavu : KOHIMA

Admission going on for 2018: 1. NPSC PRELIMS 2. NPSC Mains Coaching from 12th March to 4th May 3. Tuition for all Class(NBSE & CBSE) 4. Coaching for NEET/AIPMT, NERIST(I,II,III)JEE 5. Spoken English & Hindi 6. SSC -Intensive Coaching for CPO Exam.

7. Computer Course: DCA & TALLY

K-742

L o n d o n, m a r 2 5 (Agencies): Syrian rebel groups have pulled out of more towns in the Eastern Ghouta, as the government tightens it grip on the enclave outside Damascus.

Buses carrying fighters, their families and others left the area late on Saturday, leaving the city of Douma as the last rebel-held stronghold.

According to BBC, the evacuations followed a deal between government forces and a local rebel group, Faylaq al-Rahman.

About 70% of the Eastern Ghouta is now under government control.

Hundreds of people have been killed since Syrian government forces, supported by the Russian military, launched an offensive on the rebel-held territory last month.

INTENSIVE COACHING & COMPUTER INSTITUTE

K-542

Those boarding the buses were searched and then given food and water.

ations - although it was unclear when buses would arrive.

Negotiations with another rebel group, Jaish alIslam, about the surrender of Douma are understood to be continuing.

Syrian state TV broadcast pictures of troops moving into towns abandoned by rebels, highlighting trenches and other fortifications left behind.

It also showed prisoners released by the rebels being loaded into minibuses.

Another deal struck last week saw thousands of people evacuated from the town of Harasta on Friday.

The rebels in the Easter n Ghouta encompass multiple factions, including jihadists, and in-fighting between them has led to losses of ground to the Syrian government.

Jaish al-Islam and its rival Faylaq al-Rahman are the largest groups.

The Eastern Ghouta is so close to Damascus that rebels have been able to fire mortars into the heart of the capital, leading to scores of civilian deaths.

Rebel rocket fire reportedly killed a young Syrian footballer and wounded seven others as they were training in Damascus on Saturday.

DP-2004

Syria rebels evacuations gather pace

Contact : 8787885866/9862650069/9077238579

K-737

K-755

state

10

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Assam Rifles conduct activities across Nagaland

Jalukie Battalion

Dimapur battalion

Mokokchung battalion

Chieswema battalion

Mon battalion

Zunheboto battalion

Phek battalion

Wokha battalion

DIMAPUR: Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (N) has been conducting civic action programmes in various places across Nagaland.

Jalukie: Jalukie Battalion of Assam Rifles in collaboration with NGO, North East Rural Livelihood (NERL), inaugurated and handed over development projects to the local populace of the remotely located Old Soget village, Peren district, on March 17. During the event, Assam Rifles along with the NGO inaugurated a 3.5 KVA Hydro Power Project, provided by NERL, and a “paan & grocery shop” for three women who were also provided financial assistance for self employment. Assam Rifles also distributed sports items for the youth who are also being sponsored for vocational training by the Jalukie Battalion. The event was attended by village GBs, council members and other villagers.

AR also organised a lecture-cum-seminar on the importance of education for students and parents, at community hall New Chalkot village, Peren on March 19.

According to 36 AR, Jalukie battalion, the aim of the event was to spread awareness on different types of educational oppor-

tunities among the students in the nation. The event included a small talk and interaction with parents and students on the modern education system. A total of 65 people attended the event.

Dimapur: Dimapur battalion of Assam Rifles conducted an awareness lecture on “Hygiene and Sanitation” at Government Primary School (GPS), L Hotovi village, Dimapur on March 17. The aim of the event was to create awareness amongst the locals on clean streets, roads and environment in cities, smaller towns and rural areas for healthier living. Children were taught the importance of hygiene and sanitation and to undertake cleanliness drives around their schools and households. A total of 35 students along with five staff members attended the lecture.

Mokokchung: Mokokchung battalion organised an awareness programme on “World Disabled Day (WDD)” at Mokokchung on March 15.

C a p t a i n , S a u r av Dhand, regimental medical officer, delivered a lecture for the local populace and Assam Rifles personnel.

The members were sensitised on disabilities and the hardships faced by differently abled people. The

lecture also emphasised on the rights of the differently abled persons in the country.

44 AR, Mokokchung battalion, also conducted a lecture-cum-awareness programme at its battalion headquarters in Mokokchung on March 20.

Captain Chandan Kumar addressed 35 members of all wards of Mokokchung town and educated the youth on the recruitment process for joining the Army. The aim of the event was to raise awareness amongst the local about employment opportunities for overall development of the local populace.

Chieswema: Chieswema battalion of Assam Rifles organised a “Free Medical Camp” at Botsa village on March 14. A specially constituted medical team under 2IC (CMO) C. Satyaranjan along with two nursing assistants and one laboratory assistant conducted the medical camp. The medical team examined and treated the villagers and also provided free medication for the villagers. A free diabetes screening was also done.

C. Satyaranjan also gave a lecture on “healthy life” to impart basic health education on precautions against viral diseases and HIV/AIDS, and the importance of hygiene and

sanitation.

Mon: Mon battalion of Assam Rifles established a water supply scheme (bore-well) in Shengha Chingnyu village, one of the remote villages under Mon district along the Indo-Myanmar border on March 17. The bore-well project was inaugurated and handed over to the villagers by Shengha Chingnyu chief Angh, Aloh Konyak in the presence of colonel Dipankar Basu, SM Commandant 35 AR. The bore-well project will help around 3000 residents of Shengha Chingnyu and nearby villages.

Another bore-well was set up at Chenmoho village, a village along the IndoMyanmar border, on March 21. According to AR Mon battalion, the bore-well project was inaugurated by Wakho Konyak and Lakho Konyak of Chenmoho village in the presence of eminent personalities of the village. AR stated that the bore-well should help approximately 6000 people of Chenmoho and nearby villages.

Zunheboto: Zunheboto battalion of Assam Rifles organised a Weapon Display-cum-Awareness on Agricultural Innovation at Longkhim town on March 19.

According to 5 AR, Zunheboto battalion, the

Assam Rifles apprehend NSCN (K) cadres

The apprehended persons along with the seized items.

DIMAPUR: Based on specific intelligence about the presence of NSCN (K) cadres Chieswema battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (N) launched an operation along with a police representative in the general area of New Secretariat, Kohima on March 20.

According to 9 AR, K Y M C

Chieswema battalion, during the operation, troops of Assam Rifles apprehended NSCN (K) ‘district secretary’, identified as Mhasibeituo Moses Yhome (28) son of Thepfulhou Salie Yhome, resident of Don Bosco colony, lower LKhel village. The individual revealed that he has been involved in collection of

illegal taxes and extortion of money from the local public in Kohima town.

The recoveries from the individual included 42 copies of extortion slips, a cash amount of Rs. 35,910/- and one laptop.

In another press release from PRO HQ IGAR (N), Mokokchung battalion of Assam Rifles under the

aegis of HQ IGAR (N) conducted a search operation based on specific information along with police representative in the general area of Bhumnyu village on March 19.

During the search of a suspected house Assam Rifles troops apprehended NSCN (K) ‘lieutenant’ Pongnyan Phom (44) son of Nyahpa Phom, of Bhumnyu village under Longleng district. AR said that Pongnyan Phom has allegedly been actively involved in facilitating the cross border movement of cadres across the Indo-Myanmar border.

The apprehended had reportedly surrendered in April 2016 and had rejoined NSCN (K) in 2017. The recoveries include one mobile phone with sim card, one aadhar card, one joint interrogation report and surrender certificate.

The apprehended along with the seized items have been handed over to the respective police stations for further investigation.

aim of the exhibition was to motivate students and youth of the region to join the armed forces. Varieties of weapons were displayed for the people to see and understand the might of the Armed Forces.

An exhibition on farming was also organized for making livelihood easy in remote places. Local innovators also took keen interest in the innovations displayed by the NGO “Better Life Foundation”.

The display was attended by approximately 500 people. Also 28 AR, Wokha battalion organized a medical camp at Lazami village council hall under Pughoboto sub-division in Zunheboto district on March 11.

According to 28 AR, Wokha battalion, the aim of the medical camp was to provide medical support and assistance for the villagers, especially the old and women who are unable to travel to the distant hospitals. A total of 113 female, 54 male and 11 children were treated and free medicine was provided for the ailing. People were also educated on the importance of timely vaccinations, personal hygiene and sanitation.

Phek: Phek battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) organized a career counsel-

ling event for the students at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Phek town on March 20.

According to 22 AR Phek battalion, the lecture included details of various opportunities available after 10th and 12th classes, including central and state government educational scholarship schemes for welfare of students.

During the interactive seminar five students from GHSS Phek town who had undergone a National Integration Tour shared their experiences of the trip to New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur with the attendees.

A total of 150 students attended the programme.

Assam Rif les also organised an interaction programme with the representatives of various local organisations at Meluri on March 21. According to AR Phek battalion, the aim of the interaction was to address issues related to development of Meluri area, recruitment of local youth in Security Forces and various job opportunities available to the local youth. Assam Rifles assured the locals of its full cooperation with the villagers at any point of time and promised to train as many youth as possible from the village to join the Security Forces. A total of 20 people attended the interaction

Assam Rifles apprehends arms dealer DIMAPUR: Dimapur battalion of Assam Rifles conducted an operation along with a police representative based on specific information in the general area of Pimla village, Dimapur on March 15.

According to PRO HQ IGAR (N), during the operation, troops of 32 Assam Rifles apprehended one individual with illegal weapons including one point 22 rifle with magazine, 27 live rounds of point 22 rifle, eight FCC point 22 rifle, three FCC 12 bore rifle and approximately 100 grams of explosive.

The apprehended was identified as Vighoto Kiba (27) son of Hosheto Kiba, resident of Pimla village, Dimapur.

The apprehended along with the recovered items have been handed over to Chumukedima police station for further investigation.

programme.

Wokha: Wokha battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (N) organized a debate competition under the theme “Say No to Drugs” at Jawaharlal Nehru Navodya Vidyalaya, Chukitong on March 19.

According to 28 AR, Wokha battalion, the aim of the debate was to create general awareness among

the youth on the ill effects of drug abuse. The debate highlighted the harm being caused by drug abuse in Nagaland and the NE states. Students discussed how drug abuse is also a means for the spread HIV due to the use of infected syringe by drug addicts.

A total of 50 students attended the debate competition.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

February 24, 1974 – March 04, 2018

We the bereaved family members of Late Chubayangla Jamir (Mangmetong) Kohima, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to every individual, neighbours, groups, villagers, churches and the Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Nagaland who stood by us physically, financially and prayer support throughout her prolonged illness till her last breath. We deeply regret and apologize for our inability to mention all the name individually.

But it is our prayer that our Almighty God will bless abundantly for your gracious deeds.

DP-2385

Loving husband, daughter and family members

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Late Kudeyi Huire

D.O.B - 15th Nov. 1969 to 23rd March 2018

“Forever loved never forgotten.

That what is given to us we keep forever” We, the family members of late Kudeyi Huire, express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who stood by us during his brief illness and demise.

We are indebted to all who graciously extended prayer, financial help and moral support. Words cannot express how grateful we are and we just want to say a big Thank You to all. May the Lord Almighty bless you abundantly.

We would like to give special thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of CIHSR for your untiring and selfless service towards the late Kudeyi.

DP-2412

Loving wife, children and family members K Y M C

RJD, BJP cross swords over Lalu’s sentence Patna, Mar 24 (PTI): Reacting to the toughest ever sentence awarded to Lalu Prasad in a fodder scam case, the RJD today termed the CBI investigation “politically motivated” and the BJP said the law took its own course.

“It is no rocket science to see that the probe was politically motivated. I do not wish to say much about the judgment since one cannot expect a verdict to be fair and just if the investigation itself was faulty,” RJD national spokesman Manoj Jha told PTI. He was reacting to the judgment pronounced by a CBI court in Ranchi, whereby Prasad was sentenced to 14 years in prison in a case relating to fraudulent withdrawal of money from the Dumka treasury when he was the chief minister of undivided Bihar.

The Rajya Sabha MP, however, expressed confidence that they would draw the higher court’s attention to the shortcomings in the investigation and Prasad would come out unscathed.

“Prasad is a victim of a conspiracy by political

RJD chief Lalu Prasad.

parties like the BJP, which represents the interests of those who are opposed to social justice and communal harmony,” Jha said.

He alleged that “had the CBI conducted a fair enquiry in the cases of this nature, all the big shots in the Nitish Kumar government would have been behind bars in connection with the Srijan scam by now”.

Prasad’s younger son and Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav told reporters, “We apprehend a threat to Laluji’s life as he has been challenging the BJP’s hegemony and trying to unite the parties opposed to it across the country. He is innocent and he will get justice in the higher courts.

The people of Bihar will give a befitting reply to those behind the conspiracy against the RJD supremo.”

Asserting that the RJD would not get cowed down by the latest development, Tejashwi said the workers of the party would work more resolutely than ever before and added that the JD(U) and the BJP would be made to bite the dust in the next election.

Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, who was one of the petitioners in the fodder scam cases in the Patna High Court, which had ordered a CBI enquiry into the scam in 1996, said, “The law has taken its own course. The verdict is not the first one in the fodder scam cases and it should be respected by all.”

He dismissed Tejashwi’s allegation that there was a threat to his father’s life and pointed out that the RJD supremo enjoyed a foolproof security in jail.

Union minister Giriraj Singh told reporters, “As one sows so one reaps. This is the law of nature and it is futile to make a fuss over today’s verdict.

11

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Children in Bengal defy Activists march to protect Taj from pollution directives; rally with arms Kol kata, Mar 25 (IANS): A Ram Navami rally in West Bengal’s Purulia district on Sunday saw several children walking with sharp weapons, defying the directive issued by state child rights panel a few days ago. The rally, allegedly organised by Bajrang Dal, the youth wing of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, had minor boys and girls brandishing arms like swords and knives while chanting the name of Lord Ram. “We have received the report that children took part in Ram Navami rally with weapons in Purulia.

We have contacted the local administration and police about the same,” Ananya Chatterjee Chakraborty, Chairperson of West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights (WBCPCR) told IANS. “The District Magistrate’s office accepted that the kids started the rally but police took away their weapons as soon as it came to their notice,” she added.

Chatterjee said that the panel had sent a directive to all District Magistrates to prohibit children and minors from participating in armed rallies during Ram Navami as it would have an adverse impact on

their psyche. Meanwhile, defying the Bengal government’s ban on carrying weapons in public, several armed rallies were taken out by the Sangh affiliates in various parts of the state including Birbhum, West Midnapore, Howrah and certain places in Kolkata.

A number of heavyweight state BJP leaders were also seen participating in the procession with weapons. State BJP President Dilip Ghosh rallied with a sword in West Midnapore while party’s state women wing president Locket Chatterjee was seen carrying a trident. Party’s national secretary Rahul Sinha was also seen brandishing a weapon at a rally.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, however, eased the blanket ban on armed rallies, stating organisations that are celebrating the occasion of Ram Navami for more than a decade would be permitted to carry weapons.

The saffron party took out rallies with hundreds of minors including boys and girls in school uniforms with sharp weapons, on occasion of Ram Navami last year, evoking wide-spread criticism from various sections of the society.

People cleaning up the Yamuna ghat, beside the Taj Mahal, which had been converted into a dumping ground.

Agra, Mar 25 (IANS): To highlight the pollution threat to the Taj Mahal, the 17th century monument of love, environmental activists on Sunday marched along the Yamuna river with posters and banners.

Activist Devashish Bhattacharya said the “Taj was being continuously sand-blasted in this hot weather as the riverbed had gone dry.

“Though the Yogi government has announced a barrage on the Yamuna, downstream of the Taj Mahal, no date has been set for laying the foundation stone.”

The protesters said “we want uninterrupted

flow of water in the river to ensure that the ambience around the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, Itimad-udDaula’s Tomb and Ram Bagh was transformed and the air pollution brought down”.

Ranjan Sharma and Shailendra Singh Narwaar of the River Connect Campaign told IANS: “We have been holding marches and meetings for the past several years but unfortunately there has not been an inch of movement to reduce air pollution in Agra which has so many world heritage monuments.”

The march promoters said the Yamuna riverbed needed immediate desilt-

ing and dredging.

River activists Rahul Raj and Deepak Rajput said: “Tons of polythene and leather cuttings from shoe factories had prevented seepage of water and polluted the river.”

M e a n w h i l e, wo r k on clearing up the debris and wild growth on the controversial Taj Heritage Corridor, sandwiched between the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort, began two days ago.

“The ASI plans to green up the entire 20 hectares of reclaimed riverbed which will improve the ambience and help control air pollution,” an official said.

India’s new representative Huge protest in Kannur for realignment of NH by-pass Punjab teachers block highway near Ludhiana to UNESCO nominated

JS Rajput

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): India on Sunday nominated former Director of NCERT, Prof. J.S. Rajput as India’s representative to the Executive Board of Unesco, said an official statement.

An eminent educationist with rich experience in various fields, he is also known for his contributions in reforms in school educa-

tion and teacher education.

Rajput has recently completed the project aimed at achieving religious amity through education and his edited book “Education of Muslims in India” was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2015.

He also proposed valuable changes in the school education curriculum as Director NCERT, popularly known as five Sai values - Truth, Peace, Non-violence, Righteous Conduct (Dharma) and Love. Rajput is also known for regulating the B.Ed correspondence courses as the first Chairman of NCTE and for starting the twoyear B.Ed course.

Kannur , Mar 25 (IANS): A massive protest, led by top opposition leaders from various parties lines, was held here on Sunday to support the demand for a realignment of a by-pass near here, with participants asserting that they would not allow paddy fields to be sacrificed to build it.

Among those who led the march were former State Congress President V.M. Sudheeran, Bharatiya Janata Party MP and superstar Suresh Gopi, six-time Independent legislator P.C. George, Aam Aadmi Party leader C.R. Neelakandan and several environmentalists.

The protest came a day after top leadership of the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist’s local unit,

which is strongly supporting the by-pass, took to the streets here shouting slogans against the protesters, saying they have an “antidevelopment” agenda and calling to isolate them.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the district CPI-M leadership however contend that a total of 11.5 acres of paddy fields is being taken and all, except four people, have agreed to it. They accused “vested interests behind the protesters of misleading the hapless local populace”.

However, in Sunday’s protest, Sudheeran said he is surprised to see that while the CPI-M lead protests against taking over farm lands for development in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, here they are the biggest supporters for it.

“What must be noted is that no environment and social impact assessment study was undertaken nor was an expert opinion sought for this proposed alignment. The National Highways Authority of India and the Kerala government have joined hands to destroy the paddy fields, which is the source of employment for many here. In no way will we allow this paddy lands to be taken over for the by-pass,” he said.

Asking Chief Minister Vijayan to intervene and settle this issue as the protesters have a genuine case, Gopi said: “My state party president has briefed a cross section of the Union Ministers stating that the present alignment has to be changed as the demands of

the protesters are genuine”.

“The Union government is only willing to help resolve this issue as the protesters are not against the by-pass but are against this present alignment,” he added.

George went a step forward and asked Vijayan to explain the fact that arrangements have been done with a group for Rs 70 crore as eight lakh lorry loads of mud are required to fill up this paddy field for constructing the by-pass.

“If the CPI-M leadership here do not learn from what happened in West Bengal and Tripura, then they are in for bad times.

No one is against development at all... it’s the manner in which development is forced on hapless people, that is being opposed,” he said.

Ludhiana , Mar 25 (IANS): Hundreds of teachers blocked the busy National Highway No. 1 (NH-1) near Ludhiana on Sunday after the Punjab government failed to give them any assurance on their demand, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded.

The teachers, belonging to different teacher organisations under the banner of Punjab Joint Front of Teachers (PJFT), had gathered here on Sunday for a protest rally, to oppose the state government’s move to fix their salary for first three years at the basic pay of just over Rs 10,000 per month and demanding that they be given the full salary as per the pay scale.

The protesting teachers had set a 3 p.m. deadline for the

Congress government in Punjab, led by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, to address their demands. “We cannot accept this move of the Punjab government to force us to take only the basic salary. We will not stop this agitation till the Punjab government budges on its stand,” a teacher leader told the gathering.

According to sources, over 10,000 school teachers had gathered here for the protest rally. Police and district authorities had put up barricades to prevent the teachers from reaching the highway but the agitated teachers broke through the barriers and blocked the highway. Police tried to use mild force to stop the protesters but were unsuccessful.

Indore, Mar 25 (PTI): Nearly 2.5 lakh cattle, out of around 90 lakh in Madhya Pradesh, have been stamped with unique identities, similar to the 12-digit Aadhaar number, to enhance their safety as well as increase milk production, officials said.

The ears of these bovines are being tagged with UID numbers as part of an ambitious scheme of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).

An official said that

cows and buffaloes are being tagged in this manner to create a nationwide recording mechanism called the Information Network for Animal Productivity and Health (INAPH).

Madhya Pradesh Animal Husbandry Joint Director and INAPH state nodal officer Gulabsingh Davar said, “We have started tagging the bovines on a large scale this month.

In the first phase, 40 lakh UID would further be linked to the Aadhaar number tags have been distributed Cattle of its owner which in turn would check the illegal sale and and the ears of 2.5 lakh purchase, smuggling and abandoning of cattle.

cattle have been tagged.”

The plan, he said, was to complete the tagging of all the 90 lakh cattle in MP in the second phase.

“A cattle dossier, comprising the animal’s age, breed and other characteristics, will be created which would be uploaded onto the INAPH’s Information Technology Application so that each cow or buffalo’s unique identity is available on gadgets,” he explained.

Raipur/Sukma, Mar 25 (IANS): Seven Maoists were arrested in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district on Sunday in connection with the blast targetting an antilandmine vehicle of the CRPF earlier this month that left nine troopers dead, a senior police official said.

According to Deputy Inspector General of Police, Bastar, P. Sundarraj, the insurgents were arrested in a sweep operation launched by the STF, CRPF and Cobra Battalion on Saturday.

DP-2403

blast: Seven MP completes UID tagging of 2.5 lakh cattle Sukma Maoists arrested

ferent. It is an India which is Ambedkar’s India, of the poor and the backward.”

Modi said Ambedkar was an “inspiration for millions of people like me, who belong to backward classes”.

He said to honour the architect of India’s constitution, the government would begin the ‘GramSwaraj Abhiyan’ on his birth anniversary on April

DP-2405

BRAINETTE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE Montessori & Nursery Teachers Training An ISO 9001 : 2008 Certified Organization International Accreditation by JAS – ANZ, Australia & IOA

ADMISSION OPEN FOR 17th BATCH Course

Duration

Eligibility

Advance Diploma

1 year

12 pass and above

Diploma

6 months

Certificate Course

3 months

10 pass

SPECIAL FEATURES : * Full Practical Classes * Internship * Trained & Expert Faculty * Exposure Trip HO. Blend Complex, Near Axis Bank ,Purana Bazar Call : 7630900101, 7005525260 For details visit us @ www.brainettemontessori.com

DP-2384

Narendra Modi

14 which will go on till May 5. “Under the aegis of this campaign, separate programmes on village development, poverty amelioration and social justice will be held throughout India,” he said.

Modi said in the era of 1940s, when the whole world was focused on the Second World War, the looming Cold War and the partition of the subcontinent, Ambedkar laid the foundation of “Team India’s spirit” as he talked about federalism, and on Center and states working together for the upliftment of the country.

“Today, we have adopted in all aspects of governance the mantra of co-operative federalism and going a step further, we have adopted competitive cooperative federalism,” he added.

DP-2410(B)

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): Calling it B.R. Ambedkar’s India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the “New India” belonged to the poor and the backward.

In his monthly radio programme “Mann Ki Baat”, the Prime Minister said Ambedkar showed that it was not necessary for a person to be born in a rich family in order to succeed, but even those born in poor families can dare to dream and realise those dreams.

“Many people mocked Baba Saheb Ambedkar, tried to pull him back and made every possible effort to ensure that the son of an impoverished and backward family would not progress in life, be something and succeed in life,” Modi said.

“But, the picture of New India is altogether dif-

DP-2410(A)

New India is Ambedkar’s India: Modi

12

National

CIC questioned on reconstitution of bench hearing pol party matters

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Central Information Commissioner Sridhar Acharyulu has questioned the manner in which the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) R.K. Mathur dissolved and reconstituted a bench hearing complaints against political parties, saying the decision erodes the independence of individual information commissioners.

“It also raises serious questions about independence of individual information commissioner, who can be part of a bench for some time and not for some other, against his will, without his consent and without a reason or without giving a reason. Can a larger bench be constituted without reference from the existing bench?,” Acharyalu asked in scathing letter dated February 22, 2018 to Mathur, accessed by the PTI. The letter circulated among all information commissioners in a recent meeting was a follow-up of a February 7 letter which also raised question marks on the manner in which bench of Sridhar Acharyulu, Sudhir Bhargava and Bimal Julka hearing complaints against six political parties was dis-

Sridhar Acharyalu

solved by Mathur.

The political parties -- BJP, Congress, BSP, NCP, CPI and CPM --were brought under the ambit of the RTI by a full bench of the Commission in 2013 but it is alleged they were not following the directives resulting in complaints filed before the Commission.

For six months in 2016, the bench had heard the case but in December that year, Julka recused himself citing his pending work.

After this, a new bench was constituted by Chief Information Commissioner R K Mathur in August 2017 in which none of the members of the previous bench was included. Interestingly in January 2017, Acharyulu was divested of hearing RTI matters of Human Resource

Air India refuses to share PM’s flight records NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Records pertaining to the Prime Minister’s chartered flights for visits abroad cannot be disclosed under the RTI Act due to security concerns as per instructions from the PMO, the national carrier has said in response to an application filed by an activist under the transparency law.

In his RTI application dated February 2, 2018, Commodore (Retd) Lokesh Batra had sought to know from Air India the dates of invoices raised for chartered flights provided by it for foreign visits of the Prime Minister since November 2016, and the dates of forwarding each of these bills to the civil aviation ministry and the external affairs ministry.

According to Batra, he got a response from the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) who said he cannot furnish information sought by him, and also sent him an e-mail communication from the PMO to Air India on the issue.

In that email, sent to an Air India official on December 26, 2016, the

Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) had said, “Records pertaining to PM’s flight have certain information which may have security implications and are, hence, exempted from disclosure under clause (g) of Section 8(1) of the RTI Act, 2005.”

“As such, the Air India is advised not to disclose information relating to PM’s flight to such RTI queries,” it said.

It was not clear what had prompted the PMO’s email in 2016.

Section 8(1)(g) of the RTI Act exempts from disclosure information that would endanger the life or physical safety of any person or identify the source of information or assistance given in confidence for law enforcement or security purposes.

Batra had mentioned in his RTI application, “It is observed that still there are considerable delays in settling the chartered flight bills and invoices of Air India in respect of foreign tours of the PM. On the other hand, Air India is being bailed out with huge tax payers’ money.”

Development Ministry, days after his order calling for disclosure of academic records of the Delhi University for the year in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi also passed out became public. Just 10 days before that he was assigned the ministry.

“Distribution and redistribution of subjects cannot be left to any single individual authority but to be decided

by Commission as such in a reasonable manner,”he says in the letter.

He said there should be a system and guidelines so that it becomes impossible to bring “external pressures” to change the subject of particular commission or remove one commissioner from a Bench.

The hearings in political parties’ matter have not taken place since a new four-member bench was constituted in August 2017 despite a Delhi High Court order to complete the case in a fixed time-limit.

The four-member bench has also been reconstituted now after one of the members retired in January this year. “After dozens of specific complaints, we are consuming years in the process. What kind of mes-

sage we are sending across the nation? Why are we not discussing these issues in the CIC meetings?” Acharyulu said as he asked for a transparent, independent and deliberated decisions on the “critical issue of political parties” saying failing to do so will “seriously affect” its credibility.

“If we cannot do this, cannot act independently, cannot protect individual independence of information commissioners, we cannot still claim to be an institution of accountability and transparency.

“In such an event of disaster, should this institution continue without a purpose as a burden on the peoples exchequer, and wait for people to demand scrapping of ? Please think over,” he said. Acharyalu said it was not just for the commissioner who was removed, but the entire CIC should know the fact of removal and reasons for it.

He has demanded his letters dated February 7 and February 21 2018 -addressed to Mathur and circulated among all information commissioners -- be posted on the commission’s website.

Doctors stage protest against NMC Bill

New Delhi, Mar 25 (Agencies): Over 600 doctors under the banner of Indian Medical Association (IMA) organised a mahapanchyat at the Indira Gandhi Stadium on Sunday to protest against the National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill, 2017. The NMC Bill seeks to allow practitioners of Ayurveda and other traditional medicine to practice modern medicine once they complete a short-term “bridge” course, among other wide-ranging institutional reforms.

President of the IMA, Dr Ravi Wankhedkar told News18 that the representatives of three lakh medical students and ten lakh modern medicine doctors, private practitioners, government service association, resident and junior doctors took part in the mahapanchayat on Sunday. He said, “We are protesting against the antipoor and pro-rich National Medical Commission Bill.

It is also anti-student and undemocratic.” The doctors have demanded the scrapping of National Medical Commission Bill and that the government must amend the existing MCI Act and provide for a stronger law to protect doctors from any violence.

Gorakhpur, Phulpur results a clear message against BJP: Akhilesh

Lucknow, Mar 25 (PTI): Riding high on bypoll victories in UP, Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav today said the win was a “big one” as it has instilled confidence among party workers and sent out a message all over the country that the BJP can be defeated in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

The BJP lost the bypolls in Gorakhpur, the bastion of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Phulpur, which was earlier held by deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya.

“I term victories in bypolls as a big one because it is not only our victory but also defeat of the CM and the deputy CM. Yogiji, who was campaigning for the BJP, could not save his own seat. It has given a message all over the country and instilled confidence among people and workers that if the BJP can be defeated in its constituencies it can be replicated all over,” Akhilesh Yadav told PTI in an interview.

On the RS poll debacle in which BSP candidate Bhim Rao Ambekdar, who was supported by his party

Akhilesh Yadav

lost, the former chief minister said, “The character of BJP, which misuse money and power against the poor stands exposed in the RS polls. Due to conspiracy being hatched by the BJP against the election of a Dalit, the SP-BSP unity has strengthened for next polls. I also thank Mayawatiji.”

About the party’s strategy for 2019 polls, Akhilesh said besides booth management, party workers have been asked to reach all villages and interact with people.

“I myself, our leaders and our cadre will reach everywhere. We will apprise them about works initiated in my regime and ask them to compare them with what is going on in the BJP re-

gime. The BJP had given a number of promises but fulfilled none. The anger of the people is palpable and they have show it in bypolls,” he said.

Asked about the BJP’s plea that less vote percentage was the reason for its loss, Akhilesh said, “Had more voters come out, our victory margin would have been better. They (BJP) misled people and won elections and now they canot follow what they said.”

The SP supremo also said that his wife Dimple Yadav, who is MP from Kannauj, will not contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls this time.

“We have decided that she will not be contesting this time as we are charged with practicising ‘pariwarwad’,” he said.

“BJP leaders like Rajnath Singh, Kalyan Singh, Raman Singh, Shivraj Chauhan are doing ‘pariwarwad’.

Members of their family are there in politics. My wife is not contesting they should also set an example. If they don’t do and only make allegations on us...I can also change my mind,” he said.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Bomb proof vehicle under construction

Vehicle Factory in Jabalpur.

Kolkata, Mar 25 (PTI): The Vehicle Factory in Jabalpur is developing a new mine protected vehicle (MPV) for security forces which can withstand a blast of 20 kg TNT, a senior Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) official said.

The MPVs in service at present can withstand a blast of 10 kg TNT in the underbelly and upto 14 kg under tyres, OFB member (weapons, vehicles and equipment) Hari Mohan said.

Asked whether the OFB was working on strengthening the MPVs following the recent Maoist attack in which an MPV of security forces was blown

up killing nine CRPF personnel, Mohan said the OFB was working on a new vehicle that would be better equipped.

“The new MPV being developed at the Vehicle Factory Jabalpur will be able to withstand a blast of 20 kg TNT,” he said.

The new MPVs will also have blast attenuation seats that will reduce the potential for injury to occupants when the vehicle is subjected to a mine or similar explosion, he said.

Mohan said, “It was reported that the blast at Sukma was of 50 kg TNT, which even a tank cannot withstand. So the focus

Spare no efforts in checking exam leak: Panel to SSC

Setting up of any panel in place of CMB ‘unacceptable’: DMK

New Delhi, Mar 25 (PTI): Asserting that the sanctity of government jobs examinations must be maintained at any cost, a Parliamentary panel has asked the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) to spare no efforts in ensuring that such tests are free from any malpractices.

The SCC, which conducts exams to select candidates for various central government jobs, had to cancel nine examinations, fully or partially, in the last five years.

Most recently, it had to recommend a CBI enquiry into allegations pertaining to the conduct of Combined Graduate Level (TierII) examination 2017.

“Such cancellation of exams is a complete waste of efforts and resources of both the aspirants and the government and also dims the image of the Commission in the eyes of general public,” the Department Related Parliamentar y Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice said in its report tabled recently in Parliament.

MK Stalin

Erode, Mar 25 (PTI): The DMK today continued to press for the immediate constitution of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) by the Centre and said the setting up of any other panel in its place was unacceptable.

A ‘special’ resolution adopted at the DMK’s twoday conference here urged the Tamil Nadu government to ensure the state’s rights are upheld in the inter-state dispute involving Karnataka and warned of protests by the party if the ruling AIADMK failed to do so.

The resolution, moved

by DMK Working President MK Stalin, referred to a section of reports that claimed the Centre may possibly set up a supervisory committee in place of

has to be on detection apart from strengthening of vehicles.”

Nine CRPF personnel were killed in a blast

by Maoists at Sukma in Chhattishgarh on March 13.

“A vehicle can be strengthened to a certain extent, but attackers can increase the strength of their explosives to a higher potential, so it is more imperative to focus on detection of explosives or mines to prevent loss of lives and equipment,” he said. Naxals had reportedly triggered the blast when the MPV went over the hidden landmine.

the CMB, and opposed any such move.

“The Tamil Nadu government should be uncompromising on (the stand of ) setting up of CMB and should not let any other panel to be set up... and it should insist the Centre that CMB should be constituted at the earliest,” the resolution said.

If the state government did not do so, the DMK will launch “strong struggles” with the help of farmers and the public on the issue, it added.

It further charged the Centre with “delaying” the setting up of CMB “under some pretext” and urged the state government to exert adequate pressure for its formation at the earliest.

Following the February 16 final verdict of the Supreme Court on the vexed Cauvery river dispute, the ruling AIADMK and opposition parties including DMK have been urging the Centre to constitute the CMB and Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee (CWRC) within six weeks from that day to ensure the state received its due share of water from the inter-state river.

Bengal initiates steps to curb growing crime against children Ko l k ata , M a r 2 5 (PTI): The West Bengal government as well as some NGOs have started taking steps to combat the upward trend in crimes against children in the state.

The latest National C r i m e Re c o r d B u r e a u (NCRB) said that West Bengal had registered 7004 crimes against children in 2016, the 5th highest number in the country.

Uttar Pradesh is on the top of the list with 15 per cent followed by Maharashtra (14 pc), Madhya Pradesh (13 pc), Delhi (8 pc) and West Bengal (6 pc).

Nearly 20 crimes are committed against children every day in the state.

West Bengal shows upward trend in crimes related to kidnapping, child trafficking and sexual offences against children, and these consist of over 90 per cent of crimes against children in the state.

The state accounted for 7004 recorded crimes against children of which

Atindra Nath Das

4178 crimes were registered under kidnapping and human trafficking from neighbouring countries. Besides, 2132 crimes were booked under POCSO Act, which included rape and sexual assault, as per NCRB data.

West Bengal tops the list in human trafficking of minors for prostitution, which stood at 53.3 per cent (highest in the country) registering a 17 per cent growth from 2012 to 2016.

In trafficking of minor girls, the state records 27 per cent, second highest in the country registering a growth of 47.7 per cent from 2012 to 2016.

In kidnapping and abduction together, the state records 6.6 per cent, fifth highest in the country.

West Bengal also records six per cent crimes under POCSO, fourth highest in the country.

Taking into account of the urbanisation of crime, only about five per cent of the crime in the state are committed in Kolkata.

However, the city records a huge number of trafficking of girls from foreign countries (40 per cent of total trafficking in WB from neighbouring countries), trafficking of minors for prostitution (16 per cent of such crimes in WB).

“Going by the recent trends revealed by NCRB data, West Bengal along with some other states continue to show worrying trends in cases related to crimes against children,” Atindra Nath Das, Regional Director, CRY-Child Rights and You (East) told PTI. Speaking about the

socio-economic reasons behind child trafficking, Das said, “abject poverty, coupled with sheer lack of livelihood, accentuates the problem.”

“Lure of money to the poor parents and the expectation that their child will stay better, besides the relief that there will be one less mouth to feed, are the reasons behind growing child trafficking as people have been pushed to extreme financial crisis,” Das said.

“The geographic location of the state and the porous border the state shares with other countries also increases the vulnerabilities of children to fall prey to trafficking,” he said.

However, Das believed, “These crimes can be prevented by all means. To achieve this, the most important step is to strengthen the existing safety-net for protection of children, and also to bring forth an overall protective environment for them, both in letter and spirit.”

DC-663

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Trump orders ban on most transgender troops

Donald Trump priate policies concerning military service by transgender individuals”, the memo stated.

However, LGBT advocates quickly denounced the move, The Hill reported.

“There is simply no way to spin it, the TrumpPence Administration is going all in on its discriminatory, unconstitutional and despicable ban on transgender troops,” Human Rights Campaign president Chad Griffin said in a statement.

“The Tr ump-Pence administration’s continued insistence on targeting our military families for discrimination is appalling, reckless, and unpatriotic,” added American Military Partner Association president Ashley Broadway-Mack.

Former Catalan president ‘detained’ L o n d o n, M a r 2 5 (Agencies): Catalonia’s ex-leader Carles Puigdemont has been detained by German police acting on a European arrest warrant.

Mr Puigdemont, who is wanted in Spain for sedition and rebellion, was held crossing from Denmark on the way to Belgium, his lawyer said, reported BBC. Mr Puigdemont had been on a visit to Finland since Thursday.

He has been living in self-imposed exile in Belgium since Catalonia’s parliament unilaterally declared independence from Spain in October.

The charges of rebellion and sedition that Mr Puigdemont faces in Spain could result in 30 years in prison.

He slipped out of Finland on Friday before authorities could arrest him.

“The president was going to Belgium to put himself, as always, at the disposal of Belgian justice,” his spokesman, Joan Maria Pique, told Reuters news agency.

German police said that Mr Puigdemont was detained by a highway patrol in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein, which borders Denmark.

Tensions in Catalonia

Mr Puigdemont are very high and its separatist leaders abandoned plans to name a new president following the arrest of the latest candidate, Jordi Turull, on Friday.

Crowds of protesters had clashed with police in Barcelona on Friday night after Spain’s Supreme Court ruled 25 Catalan leaders should be tried for rebellion, embezzlement or disobeying the state. Mr Turull was among five people taken into custody in fresh arrests.

The rulings were considered the most serious challenge to date to the Catalan inde pendence movement. Almost the entire leadership now faces a major legal fight.

Following the referendum, the central government in Madrid sacked the Catalan regional government, imposed direct rule and called new elections but pro-independence parties returned with a slim majority.

Qatar releases first terror list despite ongoing embargo Doha, Mar 25 (IANS): Qatar has released its first National List of Terrorist Classification which includes 20 individuals and eight entities, an official source said on Sunday.

The Qatari National Committee to Combat Terrorism said on its website that the terror list included “Sinai Province’ and the Yemeni charity named AlEhsan, reports Xinhua news agency.

The list is based on a law on “combating terrorism” issued last July by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the statement said.

The Qatari move came one day after the signing of an agreement between Saudi Arabia and the US worth $12.5 billion during the visit of Saudi Crown Prince

Mohammed Bin Salman to Washington.

The Qatar government has issued the terror list in response to one of the 13 demands which were announced by the quartet of Arab countries boycotting Qatar, The demands list included the closure of the Al-Jazeera channel, the severing of links with Iran, closing of a Turkish military base on Qatari soil, and the severing of relations with Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood.

In June 2017, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut all diplomatic and transportation ties with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terrorism. Doha rejected the demands and the charges.

The Palm Centre, a group that promotes the study of LGBT people in the military, accused the Pentagon of having “distorted the science on transgender health to prop up irrational and legally untenable discrimination that will erode military readiness”.

Trump first called for a ban on transgender troops in a series of tweets last year, and followed up in August by issuing a memo banning transgender people from enlisting.

The ban has since been battled over in court, with Mattis in February giving Trump a final recommendation. It was expected that he would recommend Trump allow transgender troops to remain in the military.

Several federal courts blocked Trump’s initial ban, with one ruling in November that the military would be forced to resume accepting transgender recruits starting this year.

In February, the Pentagon confirmed that one transgender recruit had joined a branch of the military after the ban was lifted due to the court order. That individual passed all tests including medical, officials said.

Russia denies aiding Afghan Taliban KABUL, Mar 25 (Agencies): Russia has rejected comments by NATO’s top commander in Afghanistan that it has been supporting and even supplying weapons to the Taliban, in a clash of words that underlines growing tension over Moscow’s involvement in the conflict.

In an interview with the BBC last week, General John Nicholson said that Russia had been acting to undermine U.S. efforts in Afghanistan despite shared interests in fighting terrorism and narcotics, with indications that Moscow was providing financial support and even arms.

“We’ve had weapons brought to this headquarters and given to us by Afghan leaders and said this was given by the Russians to the Taliban,” he said. A statement from the Russian embassy in Kabul dismissed the comments as “idle gossip”, repeating previous denials

by Russian officials. “Once again, we insist that such statements are absolutely baseless and appeal to officials not to talk nonsense,” the embassy said. U.S. commanders, including Nicholson, have said on several occasions over the past year that Russia may be supplying arms to the Taliban although no confirmed evidence has so far been made public.

Spy poison case: Trump may expel Russian diplomats Washington, Mar 25 (IANS): US President Donald Trump is weighing on a recommendation from his National Security Council to expel a group of Russian diplomats from Washington in response to the poisonings of a former Russian spy and his daughter in Britain, the media reported.

It is believed that the US had been waiting to see what members of the European Council would do, an informed source told CNN on Saturday. On Friday, 10 European countries announced they would follow Britain’s lead by also expelling Russian diplomats.

Germany, France, Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Czech, Netherlands, Bulgaria, Ireland and several others will “likely” expel the Russians on Monday, a senior foreign diplomat told CNN. The UK ordered 23 Russian diplomats back to Moscow last week after the country concluded that Russia was responsible for the poisonings. The National Security Council’s recommendation to Trump comes after a high-level meeting at the White House on Wednesday in which the council drew up a range of options to take action against Russia, according to State Department officials.

Facebook apologises in UK and US newspaper ads L ONDON, M AR 2 5 (AGENCIES): Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg has taken out full-page adverts in several UK and US Sunday newspapers to apologise for the firm’s recent data privacy scandal.

He said Facebook could have done more to stop millions of users having their data exploited by political consultancy Cambridge Analytica in 2014.

“This was a breach of trust, and I am sorry,” the back-page ads state.

It comes amid reports Facebook was warned its data protection policies were too weak back in 2011.

The full-page apology featured in broadsheets and tabloids in the UK, appearing on the back page of the Sunday Telegraph, Sunday Times, Mail on Sunday, Observer, Sunday Mirror and Sunday Express.

In the US, it was seen by readers of the New York Times, Washington Post and Wall Street Journal.

In the advert, Mr Zuckerberg said a quiz developed by a university researcher had “leaked Facebook data of millions of people in 2014”.

“I’m sorry we didn’t do more at the time. We’re now taking steps to make sure this doesn’t happen again,” the tech chief said.

It echoes comments Mr Zuckerberg made last week

New York, Mar 25 (IANS): South Koreans are dispropor tionately impacted by ransomware campaigns, with analysis revealing that $2.5 million of the $16 million in ransomware payments over the past two years was paid in South Korea. Ransomware attacks, which encrypt and hold a computer user’s files hostage in exchange for payment, comprise one of the fastest growing forms of cyber attack.

In a paper, scheduled to be presented at the IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy at San Francisco in May, the researchers provide a detailed account of the ransomware payment ecosystem, from initial attack to cash-out.

The team comprised researchers from New York University Tandon School of Engineering; University of California, San Diego; Princeton University; Google; and the blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis.

They also found that most ransomware operators used a Russian bitcoin exchange, BTC-E, to convert bitcoin to fiat currencies.

The team estimates that at least 20,000 individuals made ransomware payments over the past two years, at a confirmed cost of $16 million, although the actual payment total is

likely far higher.

Bitcoins are the most common currency of ransomware payments, and because most victims do not own them, the initial bitcoin purchase provides a starting point for tracking payments.

Each ransomware victim is often given a unique payment address that directs to a bitcoin wallet where the ransom is collected.

The research team tapped public reports of ransomware attacks to identify these addresses and correlate them with blockchain transactions.

The team also executed real ransomware binaries in a controlled experimental environment, essentially becoming victims themselves and making micropayments to real ransom wallets in order to follow the bitcoin trail.

“Ransomware operators ultimately direct bitcoin to a central account that they cash out periodically, and by injecting a little bit of our own money into the larger flow we could identify those central accounts, see the other payments flowing in, and begin to understand the number of victims and the amount of money being collected,” said lead researcher Damon McCoy, Assistant Professor at New York University Tandon School of Engineering.

after reports of the leak prompted investigations in Europe and the US, and knocked billions of dollars of Facebook’s market value.

Mr Zuckerberg repeated that Facebook had already changed its rules so no such breach could happen again.

“We’re also investigating every single app that had access to large amounts of data before we fixed this.

We expect there are others,” he stated.

“And when we find them, we will ban them and tell everyone affected.”

The ads contained no mention of the political consultancy accused of using the leaked data, Cambridge Analytica, which worked on US President Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign.

The British firm - which has no connection with Cambridge University - has denied wrongdoing.

What is the row about?

In 2014, Facebook invited users to find out their personality type via a quiz developed by Cambridge University researcher, Dr Alexsandr Kogan called This is Your Digital Life.

About 270,000 users’ data was collected, but the app also collected some public data from users’ friends without their knowledge.

Facebook has since changed the amount of data developers can gather in this way, but a whistleblower, Christopher Wylie, says the data of about 50 million people was harvested for Cambridge Analytica before the rules on user consent were tightened up.

Mr Wylie claims the data was sold to Cambridge Analytica which then used it to psychologically profile people and deliver proTrump material to them

We, the Padum Pukhuri Village Council and Public in general would like to express our profound heartfelt gratitude to the Veterinary department, Dimapur, especially, thanks to Dr. B. Atem Longchar, Chief veterinary Officer, Dimapur, Nagaland for providing Pig feeds and other related materials to the Padum Pukhuri Village on 22nd March 2018. And we also look forward that more such assistance will be provided by the concerned department in the coming days.

(Sanjauy Mech) Secretary PPVC

Kabul, Mar 25 (IANS): An Afghan civilian and two bombers were killed and seven people injured after an explosion ripped through a mosque in the western province of Herat on Sunday, a provincial police spokesman said.

The blast occurred at midday after two suicide bombers tried to enter Nabie-Akram Mosque in Chahr

Su locality, Abdul Hai Walizada, an officer of Police District 7 of the city, told Xinhua.

One terrorist detonated his explosive jacket near the entrance of the building after a security guard identified and intercepted the attackers, he said, adding that the second bomber was shot dead by the security guard.

Scores of people were offering prayers when the attack took place.

“Police and the rescue team reached the site following the attack and all the injured were rushed to Herat Regional Hospital for treatment,” said the police officer.

Security forces have cordoned off the area as a precautionary measure.

spring blossoms academy

BLOCK 7, THAHEKHU VILLAGE (NEAR ZOOLOGICAL PARK) DIMAPUR – 797112, NAGALAND

ADMISSION OPEN FOR THE ACADEMIC SESSION APRIL 2018- MARCH 2019

Admission is going on for Pre-Kg to Grade VIII. Forms can be obtained from the school office on all working days between 9 am to 2 pm.

CURRICULUM (i – DISCOVERY) Special Features : XSEED 5 – Steps Aim, Action, Analysis, Application & Assessment Experiential learning approach * Audio-Visual Classes * Art & Crafts *Phonics *Life Skills * IT *Regular Edn.Field Trips * Bible Camps & Scripture Class * Music Class * Club Activities *Library * Lab Activities* Medical Camp/Infirmary *Refectory *Child friendly classrooms & fixtures *Play Pool * Badminton & Basketball Court *Yearly up gradation * Hostel attached * Transport facility.

For more details, contact – +91 9436075364/ +91 8131077387/ +91 8257928144 Email – springblossomsacademy2017@gmail.com DP-2404

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I, on behalf of the Ollo Community Dimapur and Ollo Students Union Dimapur are very privileged to honour and give our heartfelt gratitude to our esteem leaders, His Excellency, the Vice-President, Gen.(Retd.) Kholi and the General Secretary, Th. Muivah of National Socialist Council of Nagalim for recognition of Ollo Community as one of the Naga tribes of Nagalim on 23rd March 2018.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

(Vitoa Katty) Chairman PPVC

The ad appeared in papers such as the Sunday Telegraph and New York Times.

during the 2017 US presidential election campaign.

Facebook has said Dr Kogan passed this information on to Cambridge Analytica without its knowledge. And Cambridge Analytica has blamed Dr Kogan for any potential breach of data rules.

But Dr Kogan has said he was told by Cambridge Analytica everything they had done was legal, and that he was being made a “scapegoat” by the firm and Facebook.

According to a report by the Sunday Telegraph, Ireland’s Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) had warned Facebook’s security policies were too weak to stop abuse in 2011, some three years before the beach took place.

Following an audit, the DPC said relying on developers to follow information rules in some cases was not good enough “to ensure security of user data”.

It also said Facebook processes to stop abuse were not strong enough to “assure users of the security of their data once they have third party apps enabled”.

Facebook said it strengthened its protections following the recommendations and was told it had made “good progress” in a subsequent 2012 DPC audit in 2012. The tech firm also said it changed its platform entirely in 2014.

Ransomware payments 3 killed in Afghan suicide attack affected S. Koreans the most

DP-2407

Washington, Mar 25 (IANS): US President Donald Trump has moved to formally ban most transgender persons from serving in the military with limited exceptions, according to a White House memorandum.

The memorandum was issued on Friday night on policies determined by Defence Secretary Jim Mattis, stating that transgender persons were “disqualified from military service except under limited circumstances”, reports The Hill magazine.

The memorandum, filed in the US District Court in Seattle, states that “transgender persons with a history or diagnosis of gender dysphoria -- individuals who the policies state may require substantial medical treatment, including medications and surgery -- are disqualified from military service except under certain limited circumstances”.

Mattis will have some leeway in implementing the policy, the memo states, as will Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen when it comes to the Coast Guard.

The two top officials “may exercise their authority to implement any appro-

13

International

I further take this opportunity to thank the Collective leadership Members, Convener of Steering Committee, Speaker of Tatar Hoho, Kilo Kilonser, Members present in the Tatar Hoho budget session 2018 and the concern Secretaries for understanding our history and uplifting our community. I believe that this act of recognition would help in strengthening the people of Northern Nagalim (Tirap, Changlang and East Patkai Hills).

DP-2415

K. Lowang Chairman Ollo Community Dimapur

14

Infotainment

Blurred Lines: Marvin Gaye’s family keeps $5m payout

R

obin Thicke and Pharrell Williams copied one of Marvin Gaye’s songs to create their 2013 smash Blurred Lines, an appeal court has ruled.

The court upheld a 2015 verdict against the stars, which means Gaye’s family will get to keep a $5m (£3.5m) payout.

In addition, the family will receive 50% of future royalties from Blurred Lines.

Yet one judge dissented from the verdict, saying the two songs “differed in melody, harmony and rhythm”.

Circuit Judge Jacqueline Nguyen added that the ruling “strikes a devastating blow to future musicians and composers everywhere”.

In the original 2015

trial, a jury found that Blurred Lines had copied Gaye’s 1973 hit Got To Give It Up - despite many observers claiming the songs were only similar in feel, rather than composition.

Thicke, Williams and rapper TI, who contributed a verse to the track, launched an appeal in 2016 and were backed by 212 fellow songwriters, among them John Oates, Jason Mraz and members of Linkin Park.

They argued the verdict “threaten[ed] to punish songwriters for creating new music that is inspired by prior works.”

But the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals largely upheld the decision, while clearing TI - real name Clifford Harris Jr - of any copyright infringement.

The judges rejected Williams and Thicke’s request to order a new trial, saying Gaye’s copyright was entitled to broad protection. They also accepted the original judge’s decision to instruct the jury to reach their verdict based only on the sheet music to the songs and not the recordings.

Musicologists have reacted with disappointment to the ruling, saying it might hinder creativity in the future.

Joe Bennett, a professor at Berklee College of Music, wrote a note-bynote comparison of the two songs in 2014 and concluded they only shared a groove.

“What they have in common is indicative of the time period,” he told Forbes this week.

“If my favourite artist

uses a cowbell and I use one too, can you copyright the cowbell? Both are arguing that their side is good for creators.

“That’s why so many of the young songwriters are concerned. What’s the threshold? How much can I be influenced by my favourite artist?”

Since the Blur red Lines trial, there have been a number of similar cases against such artists as Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Madonna and Miley Cyrus.

Others have sought to pre-empt any copyright claims - including Taylor Swift, who gifted Right Said Fred a writing credit on her single Look What You Made Me Do after noticing a passing similarity to their hit I’m Too Sexy.

Meanwhile, Thicke, Williams and TI issued a joint statement about Wednesday’s ruling, claiming it set a “horrible precedent”.

“Blurred Lines was created from the heart and minds of Pharrell, Robin and TI and not taken from anyone or anywhere else,” they said.

“We are reviewing the decision, considering our options and you will hear more from us soon about this matter.”

(BBC)

Spotify admits 2 mn users accessing ad-free service without paying

S

potify has revealed that at least 2 million users are accessing their their ad-free service without paying.

The music streaming service offers a free version supported by ads, and a Premium version – which is £9.99/month in the UK – which allows users to listen ad-free and download music to listen to offline.

However 2 million users have managed to access an ad-free service by using unauthorised ad-blocking apps.

Spotify revealed the findings as part of their risk assessment, ahead of their public offering on April 3.

“On March 21, 2018, we detected instances of approximately two million users as of December 31, 2017, who have been suppressing advertisements without payment,” the company said on Friday (March 23).

The fraudulent users represent 1.3% of the service’s previously reported 159 million active monthly users, bringing them down to 157 million.

Legitimate Premium subscribers make up 71 million of those.

(NME)

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

Apple Music’s Iovine says streaming services are ‘too similar’

A

pple Music executive Jimmy Iovine says streaming services are too similar - and need to diversify to survive.

“The streaming services are all charging $9.99 and everyone has the same music,” he told the BBC. “And it’s really nice.

You get whatever song you want, you get your playlists - but there’s got to be more interaction between the artist and the audience.

“Sooner or later, something’s got to give,” he said, indicating that Apple Music wanted more original content.

“Netflix [is] spending $6bn (£4.2bn) a year on original content,” said Iovine. “They have a unique catalogue and they charge you $10.99.”

On streaming sites, however, “the labels want you to have the same music”.

He said: “So there’s a real rub there. Sooner or later something’s going to give.”

Apple has had some success with exclusives in the past, scoring big hits with Drake’s Views and Frank Ocean’s Blonde.

But it has recently moved away from the strategy, preferring to invest in filmed content, including the Carpool Karaoke series, and its Beats 1 radio station, which boasts shows presented by Elton John, Drake and St Vincent.

The company’s chief rival, Spotify, has largely avoided exclusives. However it released its “first ever original new song” - by up-and-coming pop singers Nina Nesbitt, Charlotte Lawrence and Sahsa Sloan - earlier this week, indicating ambitions to become a virtual record label.

Iovine, who produced records for Bruce Springsteen and U2 before founding Beats headphones and joining Apple, argues that streaming sites are still too limited in their scope.

“They’re not enough as just a utility where you go there and you get the music. They have to move you, bring culture to you,” he said.

“I don’t think any of the services are there yet.

They need to be cultural hangars for people to go to, where artists communicate with their audience.

“I’m very dedicated to that.”

The executive was speaking as the US recording industry revealed its

revenues had risen 16.5% to $8.7bn (£6.2bn) in 2017, with streaming contributing two-thirds of the total.

Meanwhile, digital downloads - once seen as the saviour of the industry - are now being outsold by CDs and vinyl.

Apple has previously denied rumours it would “phase out” the iTunes download store next year, but Iovine told the BBC such a move was inevitable.

There is no concrete timescale, but he said: “If I’m honest, it’s when people stop buying.

“It’s very simple.”

Iovine was speaking to the BBC a few days before the Wall Street Journal reported he would step back from day-to-day involvement in Apple’s streaming business and move into a consulting role.

The 65-year-old was in the UK to promote the HBO/Netflix documentary The Defiant Ones, which tells the parallel stories of Iovine and hip-hop producer Dr Dre, who became his partner in developing Beats Electronics.

His rise to the top of the industry is chronicled in close detail - from the day he almost got sacked by Bruce Springsteen to the controversy he stoked by releasing records by Tupac Shakur and Marilyn Manson as the head of Interscope Records in the 1990s.

(BBC)

Oscar Academy president Yuva Kala Sadhana Sivir held McCartney attends anti-gun march in remembrance of Lennon denies harassment allegations at NEZCC complex, Dimapur

my best friends was shot not far from here,” McCartney said. “It is important to me.”

In 1980, Lennon was shot by gunman Mark David Chapman outside New York’s Dakota apartment building, where the singer lived at the time with his wife, Yoko Ono. To pay tribute to his longtime friend, McCartney sported a black T-shirt that read “We can end gun vio-

Assamese lad wins ‘Super Dancer Chapter 2’

B

ishal Sharma, a 12year-old from Jorhat, Assam, has emerged the winner of reality show “Super Dancer Chapter 2”.

The youngster is thrilled.

“I am really happy and thrilled to win the title of ‘Dance Ka Kal’ on ‘Super Dancer Chapter 2’. It is truly a dream come true for me and I am grateful to the judges, my choreographer and Sony Entertainment Television for believing in me. It is through their guidance and support, I have been able to achieve this and make my parents proud,” Sharma said in a statement.

Sharma received 12 million votes to take home a winning amount of Rs 15 lakh, along with a certificate of appreciation and a gift from PC Jewellers.

K

Y M C

Not far behind him were Akash Thapa from Dehradun, Vaishnavi Prajapati from Panipat and Ritik Diwaker from Kanpur.

The dance show had Shilpa Shetty, Geeta Kapur and Anurag Basu as ‘Super Gurus’. Actor Varun Dhawan added more star power to the finale.

The finale witnessed the viewers turn into judges and judges into viewers.

The winner was decided via live voting through the SonyLIV app, which generated a total of 34 million votes.

“Super Dancer Chapter 2”, hosted by Jay Bhanushali and Paritosh Tripathi, began with 12 dancers, who got an opportunity to compete for the winner’s title across 26 weeks.

(IANS)

J

ohn Bailey, President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has denied all allegations of sexual harassment against him. Bailey penned a memo to the Academy staff, saying media reports which accuse him of sexual misconduct, are “false” and that they “have served only to tarnish my 50 year career”.

He said the allegations involved a “single named complaint” involving inappropriate touching while on a transport van on a movie set. Bailey has denied the claim, saying “That did not happen”, reports hol-

lywoodreporter.com. Bailey also cited the Academy’s new standards of conduct for members, instituted in December. “The fact that the existence of an allegation even became public thwarts the confidential review process that the Academy adopted and is supposed to follow when receiving complaints,” the note read.

He said the review process would exonerate him from the allegations. “While there have been well documented instances of individuals in this industry not treating women with respect, I am not one of them,” he wrote. An Academy subcommittee led by David Rubin began investigating the claims in mid-March. The Academy did not comment on the investigation, as per their review process, which rules the organisation may comment following a completed investigation.

(IANS)

D

imapur-Sanskar Bharati Poorvottar organized a Five day workshop on Theatre, Fine Arts, Classical Music of India, Katha Dance, Odishi Dance, Naga Folk Dance,Tabla, Flute and Naga Drum playing at North East Zone Cultural Centre complex, Dimapur from March 25 to 29. The inaugural function was held on Sunday at open air theatre of NEZCC garden.

The stalwarts of different fields, came from New Delhi, Gorakhpur, Silchar, Lakhnow, Kolkatta, Nagaland and Rajasthan to interact with the youths of North East.

The orientation and worshop is supported by Gandhi Smriti Avm Darshan Samity and Ministry of Culture, Govt of India.

Amir Chandra, Joint

Organising Secretary All India Sanskar Bharati inaugurated the five day workshop with him Dr. Dhananjay Kusre Incharge Sanskar Bharati Poorvattor, Sukhdev Biswas,Assistant General Secretary of Sanskar Bharati Poorvattor, T. Amenla Jamir,coordinator of Yuva Kala Sadhana Sivir graced the occasion.

Pandit Chetan Kumar Joshi, Shri Rohit Tripathi, Pandit Sharad Mani Tripathi, Bipen Kumar, Pandit Niloy Kanti Dutta, Dr. Purnima Pandy,Smt. Alaka Kanungo, Sanjeeb Sharma, Kishan Lal Khatik, Bethunglo Ngullie, Angummakla, Merensubong is coming as resourse person for the workshop.

DP-2406

The Beatles: Unseen photos fetch £250,000

M

ore than 350 previously unseen photos of The Beatles at two early US shows have fetched £253,200 at auction.

Mike Mitchell captured the Fab Four arriving at the venues, at pre-show press conferences and on stage in Washington DC and Baltimore in 1964.

A total lot of 413 negatives were sold with copyright for £253,200 by Omega Auctions. Forty-six of those have been seen before when auctioned in 2011.

A black Mercedes AMG George Harrison bought in 1984 sold for

£43,200.

Mitchell photographed the band at their first ever US concert, at Washington Coliseum on 11 February 1964 - two days after their famous appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.

Mitchell was just 18 at the time and took the photos in natural light because he couldn’t afford a flash.

He was on hand again when they played Baltimore Civic Centre on 13 September 1964. He even got on stage to get a better vantage point.

“I was very motivated to come up with stuff that was as unique as could pos-

sibly be,” he said.

“I looked and noticed that nobody was up on the stage. I thought, I wonder what it would be like to be up on the stage and see what I could get up there.”

Auctioneer Paul Fairweather said it was a “fantastic sale” which “shows that The Beatles market is still as strong as ever”.

The black Mercedes 500 SEL AMG was bought

by Harrison in 1984 for £85,000 and he owned it for 16 years.

It featured in the official video for the song ‘Real Love’.

(BBC)

DC-661

S

ir Paul McCartney honored his friend and bandmate John Lennon while talking part of Sunday’s March for Our Lives protest in New York City.

During the worldwide march against gun violence, the Beatles frontman was pulled aside by CNN reporters with whom he shared his reason for walking in the march.

“As you know, one of

lence,” and held a March for Our Lives sign.

Another celebrity who was snapped at the New York march was Cynthia Nixon, who recently announced her candidacy for New York governor.

In a tweet, Nixon said, “Ran in to a group of fellow @BarnardCollege alumni today at the NY #MarchForOurLives. Incredibly moved at how many people came out today to stake a stand for our kids and demand action against gun violence.”

With more than 800 sister marches taking place worldwide, in cities such as London, Tokyo, Sydney, Chicago and Mumbai, more celebrities like Amy Schumer, Olivia Wilde, Charlie Puth and Connie Britton are also said to take part in the Los Angeles march, according to TMZ. (FoxNews)

K

Y M C

15

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018

England eves beat India by 7 wickets Kokkinakis stuns Federer in Miami that on the big stage he was able to show it. It’s a big result for him in his career, and I hope it’s going to launch him.”

Federer, a three-time champion in Miami, has not suffered defeat this early in Key Biscayne since 2000 when as an unseeded teenager he was beaten by Mariano Zabaleta.

Kokkinakis advances to a third-round meeting with Fernando Verdasco,

who came from a set down to win the all-Spanish contest against Guillermo Garcia-Lopez after what could be a career-defining afternoon.

Federer confirmed after the match that - just as he did in 2017 - he will not play the clay court season, returning in June when the grass court swing gets going and he looks to defend the Wimbledon title he won so convincingly last year.

Halep crashes out of Miami Open

Miami, Mar 25 (Agencies): Roger Federer suffered his earliest defeat at the Miami Open since 2000 and will lose his world No 1 ranking after a secondround defeat to Australian world No 175 Thanasi Kokkinakis.

Six days after losing a final set tie-break to Juan Martin del Potro, Federer suffered the same fate again as 21-year-old Kokkinakis recorded the biggest win of

SON state games from April 4

resents a landmark victory putting two years of injury problems behind him to become the lowest ranked player to beat a world No 1 since Francisco Clavet (world No 178) beat Lleyton Hewitt in Miami in 2003.

And his performance drew the praise of 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer: “I’ve always liked his game.

“I’m happy for him

Mumbai, Mar 25 (IANS): England completed a record chase to thrash India by seven wickets in a Women’s T20I Tri-Series match here on Sunday.

Chasing a formidable target of 199 runs, England pulled off the feat in 18.4 overs. Opener Danielle Wyatt played a starring role for the visitors, smashing England’s highest ever Twenty20 individual score as she plundered 124 runs off just 64 balls. Her knock included 15 boundaries and five sixes. She also smashed the fastest ever century for England in women’s cricket, reaching three figures off

Silver Cup T20 School of Eng & Tech sports meet concludes Cricket from today Dimapur, Mar 25 (NPN): The 9th edition of Silver Cup T20 Cricket Tournament organized

by Youth Department of Nepali Baptist Church Kohima will commence Monday at Jakhama ground.

Altogether 16 teams will compete in this year’s edition. The tournament to be play on knock out basis will go on till April 4.

President of Kohima District Cricket Association, Atha C Angami will Participants on the concluding day of School of Engineering and Technology annual sports meet. grace the inaugural function. The inaugural match Dimapur, Mar 25 of NBDA as the guest of the students and manage- and sports meet. The guest will be played between (NPN): The week long honour.Speaking at the ment to conduct cultural of honour also gave away defending champion Whissports meet of the School closing ceremony, the chief events all throughout the the medals and certificates kers Cricket Club, Dimapur of Engineering and Tech- guest said sports helps in year apart from Techaura to the winners. and Silver Backs. nology, NU culminated on developing musculoskelMarch 24 in the state stadi- etal system, team spirit, um, Dimapur. The closing social bonding, critical ceremony was graced by thinking and time manageDr. Tolto Metha, member ment. He also suggested

OF

LT. N. RENTSAMO LOTHA It has been three years since we last saw each other. Knowing that you are in our hearts wherever we go, we want you to know how grateful we are to be a part of your life. You are our inspiration in our lives and you are our life. No one can set us apart... We love you.

Shami injured in road accident

Dehradun, Mar 25 (PTI): India pacer Mohammed Shami has escaped with minor injuries after being involved in a road accident while travelling from Dehradun to New Delhi.

Shami, who is in the Delhi Daredevils IPL team, was returning to New Delhi from Dehradun in a car yesterday when it collided with a truck.

Shami sustained mi-

nor injuries and got a few stitches on his head. He is currently recuperating in Dehradun. He is out of danger.

The 27-year-old Shami trained for two days at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy (ACA), run by Bengal batsman and India ‘A’ player Abhimanyu Easwaran’s father in Dehradun to rejuvenate himself mentally and physically.

1ST OPEN FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT Organised by : Dimapur District Football Referee Association (D.D.F.R.A)

VENUE : D.D.S.C Stadium

DATE : 6th – 17th April 2018

Registration fee - Rs. 3000/-

Champion - Rs 50,000/Runners up - Rs. 25,000/Semi-finalists - 5,000/- each Best player, Best Custodian, Best defender

Last date for form submission 31st March 2018

Parents Remembering the 7th Death Anniversary of Dear Lt. Er. Gideon Kath

26.03.2015

Oh! Anga-o, how sad to face your day!

We wish not to grieve, but live in grief!

We wish not to cry, but we cry still!

Longing you grows deeper!

Missing you rises higher!

Loving you has no end!

In sorrow we taste sweet for good! Ro.8:28

DP-2396

26-03-2017

Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their soul to Him in doing good, as to a faithful creator. 1 peter 4:19

“Good Men must die, but death cannot kill their names.”

K-808

By Loving Parents Rev. Pikhato Kath

26.03.2011

2nd Death Anniversary OF OUR BELOVED MRS. MARLA

"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on... they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them."

(Revelation 14:13)

DP-2411

There are times, Times for good byes, Times for hardships, Times for pain, Times for sadness.

And times when we miss you.

Despite everything, there are times, When we remember you and the Good deeds that follow.

And we think that you are happy With the Lord watching over you.

K Y M C

being asked to bat first.

Mandhana smashed 76 runs off just 40 balls while Mithali scored a steady 53 off 43 deliveries.

The two produced an opening stand of 129 runs off 12.5 overs to give the hosts a superb start.

Pooja Vastrakar then scored an unbeaten 22 off 10 balls lower down the order to help India to a big total.

Brief scores: England: 199/3 in 18.4 overs (Danielle Wyatt 124, Tammy Beaumont 35; Deepti Sharma 2/36) vs India: 198/4 in 20 overs (Smriti Mandhana 76, Mithali Raj 53; Tash Farrant 2/32).

Any interested teams, clubs, and associations may kindly contact : 8413815281/8974086163/8837048122 Forms available at DDFRA Office Room No. 7 (DDSC Stadium) Office Timing : 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (FOOTBALL IS BACK IN DIMAPUR)

3RD DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Loving wife and daughter.

just 52 deliveries.

Wyatt produced a partnership of 96 runs with Tammy Beaumont which laid the foundation of a successful chase for England. Beaumont’s 23-ball 35 included three hits to the fence and a six. Although both were dismissed in quick succession by Indian spinner Deepti Sharma late in the innings, Natalie Sciver and Heather Knight combined to carry England to a comfortable victory.

Earlier, India rode on half-centuries by openers Smriti Mandhana and Mithali Raj to produce a formidable total of 198/4 after

DP-2383

Dimapur, Mar 25 (NPN): Special Olympics Nagaland (SON) has invited all types of Person with Disabilities (PwDs) to compete in the State Games at Dimapur from April 4-7.

PwDs from outside Dimapur town should produce original bus/sumo ticket both to & fro to claim their travelling ticket cost.

Escorts can be family members, social workers, teachers with 1:4 ratio, where one escort is to four PwDs. Accommodation for the State Games is at ‘Life is Beautiful Resource Centre’ located at Naga United Village, near Hope Academy School, Dimapur. Players to represent the state at the National Games in Gujarat in May will also be selected during the State Games.

Meanwhile, Community Coaches Training (CCT) and District Games (DG) for Dimapur district will be held on March 31 and April 4.

Earlier, Special Olympics Nagaland (SON) also conducted Community Coaches Training and district games in four districts.

CCT and district games at Mokokchung was held on March 13 and 14. The same was held at Wokha on March 15 and 16, Peren on March 16 and 17, and Mon on March 20 and 21.

his career, coming from a set down to win 3-6 6-3 7-6 in Florida.

Defeat for defending champion Federer, just his second of the season, means the legendary Swiss will lose his place at the top of the world rankings to Rafael Nadal when the updated list is confirmed next Monday having reclaimed it with his title victory in Rotterdam in February.

For Kokkinakis, it rep-

England cricketers celebrate the dismissal of Indian batswoman Smriti Mandhana during the Women’s T20I Tri-series cricket match in Mumbai on Sunday. (PTI)

DC-583

Roger Federer congratulates Thanasi Kokkinakis after he was beaten by the Australian world No 175 in an epic three-set thriller.

World number one Simona Halep tumbled out of the Miami Open on Saturday, falling 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 to Poland’s Agnieszka Radwanska. The third-round defeat comes a week after Romania’s Halep was toppled in the semi-finals at Indian Wells by Japan’s Naomi Osaka, who went on to win the title in the California desert.

With the first set in hand, the mercurial Halep was clearly frustrated when Radwanska dropped just four points in the opening four games of the second to seize a 4-0 lead. Halep reclaimed one break, but was broken again as Radwanska forced a third set, in which an early break put Halep up 2-0.

The Romanian couldn’t maintain the advantage, however, and her 44 unforced errors were too much to overcome as Radwanska won six of the last seven games to seal the victory. Radwanska, the 2012 Miami champion, hadn’t posted back-to-back match victories since January.

She next faces former world number one Victoria Azarenka, who rallied for a 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 victory over 20th-seeded Latvian Anastasija Sevastova. Azarenka, of Belarus, is unseeded this year as she tries to get her career back on track after taking time off to have a baby.

Despite the defeat, Halep is assured of retaining the number one spot when the rankings are updated at the end of the tournament.

Deeply missed, Loving Family and Loved Ones

Two years have passed since you left us for your heavenly abode. We have never stopped loving you, we have still not yet learnt how to live without you. We remember you every single day. Remembering is easy, we do it every day. Missing you is heartache that never goes away.

Loving husband, children, grandchildren & in-laws.

K Y M C

sports

16

Nagaland Post, Dimapur

MONDAY, MARCH 26,2018

Vettel wins F1 season’s first GP in Australia Advani retains Asian Billiards title

Sebastian Vettel celebrates after winning the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday.

MELBOURNE, Mar 25 (Agencies): Sebastian Vettel made full use of the virtual safety car to sneak in front of Lewis Hamilton and hold off the frustrated champion to win Formula One’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Sunday.

The Mercedes engine’s infamous ‘party mode’ that

delivered Hamilton a blistering pole lap on Saturday could do little once Ferrari’s Vettel nosed ahead when re-entering from pit-lane midway through the race at Albert Park.

Pole-sitter Hamilton had appeared set to coast to victory with a clear pace advantage but the race turned

on its head with the safety car, which was called after Romain Grosjean’s Haas failed and rolled to a stop at turn two.

In another bonus for Ferrari, Kimi Raikkonen finished third, fending off Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo and leaving the unlucky Australian still searching for a first

podium in his home race.

Four-times world champion Vettel claimed a 48th overall win and his third in Melbourne following his victories at Albert Park last year and in 2011.

“It was needless to say we got a bit lucky with the timing of the safety car,” the German, who had started from third place and inherited the lead when Hamilton and Raikkonen had pitted earlier in the race, told reporters. “It’s not the easiest track to pass.”

For Hamilton, the result was a bitter pill to swallow and had echoes of last year’s race.

Vettel also managed to re-enter in front of him from pit-lane in 2017 before burning away to victory while the pole-sitting Briton was blocked by traffic.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said his team had miscalculated the margin between the cars during the

safety car period. After the pit-lane setback, Hamilton drove hard to reel in Vettel and battled back after taking a slide at a corner that blew out the lead to nearly three seconds. But he finally waved the white flag in the closing laps to preserve the car for future races.

Twice world champion Fernando Alonso finished fifth for McLaren in the team’s first race with Renault power, equalling their best result in three dreary years with previous engine suppliers Honda.

Red Bull’s Dutch wunderkind Max Verstappen finished sixth after suffering a full 360-degree spin on the 10th lap that put him out of the running.

Hamilton’s team mate Valtteri Bottas finished eighth after starting 15th, having taken a five-place grid penalty for a gearbox change after a heavy crash during qualifying.

Ya n g on , M a r 2 5 (IANS): Pankaj Advani defended his title at the Asian Billiards Championships by pulverising his practice partner B. Bhaskar 6-1 in the summit clash here, while Amee Kamani bagged the Asian Women’s Snooker title by blanking her Thai opponent Siripaporn Nuanthakhamjan 3-0.

Riding the win, Advani remained the reigning Indian, Asian and World champion in billiards for 2017-18. This is Advani’s 11th gold medal at the Asian level of cue sports.

After losing the first frame, thanks to a wellcrafted 100 by Bhaskar, the rest of the match saw Advani dominate for every mistake made by Bhaskar with a frame-winning break.

Advani left the spectators mesmerised with top quality billiards as he scored a deadly barrage of breaks in the final consisting of 102, 83, 94, 96 and 99. Advani scored heavily in the fourth

Pankaj Advani with the Asian Billiards Championships trophy.

and fifth frames, not allowing Bhaskar to put a single point on the board.

These two frames appeared to be the turning point of the tie as it kept Bhaskar away from the table while Advani grew from strength to strength, making him invincible from that point on.There were spirited attempts thereafter of a comeback from the eventual silver medalist Bhaskar but Advani was in no mood to let his lead and title go. He

completed the proceedings with a world-class 99 break to seal the match and championship yet again. Bhaskar is yet to win an Asian title.

Amee meanwhile remained undefeated throughout the group stage and earned top-seed slot for the knockout stage where she knocked out Aye Ming Aung of Myanmar 3-0 (in Quarters) and Ka Kai Wan of Hong Kong 3-1 (in semis) before scripting the history against the Thai girl.

SD Jain HSS wins Dimapur inter-school cricket tourney

SD Jain Higher Secondary School players with officials and organisers after winning the tournament.

D i m a p ur , M a r 2 5 (NPN): SD Jain Higher Secondar y School beat G.Mhaisu School by 139 runs to emerge as the champions of Dimapur District Inter School U-16 tournament. The final match was played at NCA Stadium, Sovima on Sunday.

In the final match, SD Jain Higher Secondary School decided to bat after winning the toss and set up a target of 211 (all out) in

30.5 overs. Sujal scored 124 runs while Sumit Paul and Jeetendar scored 16 and 12 runs respectively. For G.Mhaisu School, Kavito and Ranjan claimed 2 wickets each.

Chasing the target, G.Mhaisu School players were bowled out for a paltry 62 in 15 overs. Mastufa scored 22 runs for his team.

For SD Jain HSS, Salim and Ajay claimed 4 wickets each. Sujal Prasad of SD

Jain HSS was adjudged the man of the tournament for scoring 210 runs and also claiming 8 wickets.

Altogether 12 schools participated in the tournament.

Meanwhile, Dimapur District Cricket Association has informed interested higher secondary schools, colleges and clubs to register for Dimapur District U-19 tournament within March 29. For registration, contact

Toni Chishi at 9774642205.

For participation in the tournament, a player should be born on or after 1-91999 and should be above sixteen years of age. Copy of birth certificate, Aadhaar card and matric admit card should be enclosed with the registration forms, DDCA informed. The tournament, to be conducted by first week of April, will be played with red cricket balls and white dress.

Northeast all set to host Indian Women’s League

Shillong, Mar 25 (Agencies): Soccer loving Meghalaya is all in for yet another round of adrenaline rush, cheers and renewed spirit of celebrating and promoting the game of soccer and women empowerment through the Hero Indian Women’s League which will be held in the North East for the first time.

Seven national Women’s team are all set to battle it out for the top spot of the Hero Indian Women’s League, in Meghalaya, the inaugural ceremony of which was held on Saturday.

From owners of the national league playing football clubs, to recipient of the Arjuna awards, most of them are of the view that the Hero Indian Women’s League will work as a major boost to promote women football not just in the region but the entire country.

“This is the first time that IWL is happening in the North East and we hope that this will further encourage and boost more talents and attract more stakeholders to support women’s football in the country,” said Larsing Ming Sawyan the owner of

Shillong Lajong team.

Sawyan further pointed out that the Indian Women’s team ranks 59 in World Rankings and if the team can improve to 30 odd ranking, the Indian Women’s team will actually be playing the World Cup. Asked, if Lajong will have a women’s team in the near future, Sawyan said, “Our objective is to branch out to women’s football. So far as a club we first entered into national league and we are looking at building a strong base before venturing into women football and once we are in we are in for good”.

Meanwhile, Former Indian Captain of the Women National team and ESU coach O. Bembem Devi said, “Last year only six team now it is seven and it is working as motivation for all of us”.

Devi further stressed that proper sponsors and attention will help improve their ranking and even play the world cup.

Defending champions Eastern Sporting Union will take on Indira Gandhi Academy for Sports & Education on March 26, the first day of the league.

The participating team includes Eastern Sporting Union, Rising Student Club, KRYHPSA, India Rush Soccer Club, Sethu FC, Gokulam Kerala FC and Indira Gandhi Academy for Sports & Education.

Printed, Published and Edited by Geoffrey Yaden at G.M. Printers, Circular Rd. Dimapur-797112. Ph: Desk 248489, Fax: 225366, e-mail-npdesk@gmail.com, nagapost@rediffmail.com. Adm.& Advertisement :248267 Fax: 248500 e-mail-npostadvt@gmail.com Kohima: 2290567, R.N. 40978/90 RN/NE 707 K Y M C

K Y M C