May 22, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 165

DIMAPUR, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00

Global coronavirus cases surpass 5 mn

Follow us on @Nagaland_Post

international, Page 6

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Rio inaugurates State’s first BSL-3 lab

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 21 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the much-awaited State Referral Bio Safety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima(NHAK) here on Thursday.

The BSL-3 lab at NHAK was set up at a cost of Rs 6.54 crore while another BSL-2 lab coming up at Dimapur is projected to cost Rs 2.99 crore.

Speaking on the occasion, Rio said the wishes of the Naga people had finally come true with the setting up of the laboratory and gave thanks to God including all those involved in the project.

He pointed out that COVID-19 pandemic has affected more than 51 lakh people around the world, with India alone having 1,12,000 positive cases and registering 3,434 deaths and that the numbers kept increasing every second.

Rio also expressed gratitude to Assam and Manipur for having assisted Nagaland in testing samples during the ongoing crisis.

He also informed that 1,672 citizens of Nagaland,

Neiphiu Rio and others inside the BSL-3 at NHAK, Thursday.

stranded in different parts of the country due to the lockdown, have arrived back and were in quarantine centres. He said that around 1,400 more were on the way, while thousands more were expected to arrive once flight and train services were opened.

Rio also mentioned that 18,622 people had so far registered at the portal iamstranded.nagaland.gov. in to express their desire to return home. He reminded that all of them would have to abide by the government directive of staying at quarantine centres in case any of them was tested positive for COVID-19 so as to contain its spread.

He also appealed to citizens not to stigmatise

those tested positive for COVID-19 but instead to lend their support.

Rio reiterated that Nagaland was able to fight the pandemic in a better way because of the unity shown by the Naga people against the virus.

He appealed to the citizens for their continued support and participation against the virus so that Nagaland remained under Green Zone and free from COVID-19.

Also speaking on the occasion, minister health & family welfare (H&FW) S. Pangnyu Phom, informed that four dedicated research scientists had volunteered to join the fight against the pandemic and so have been hired by the department.

1 held for ‘tax’ demand; PAC, DVC flay DIMAPUR, MAY 21 (NPN): Dimapur police on Thursday arrested one person in connection with the taxation demand on M/s T.K. Service. In a tweet, police said one “Vicca Chophy of NSCN U” was arrested in connection with extortion related case. A suo moto case was registered with East PS in this regard, police said.

It may be mentioned that an FIR was also lodged with East PS by Chakhro Angami Kuda Union president Zelhou Ziekhru, chairman Public Action Committee Dimapur Vekhosayi Nyekha and ACAUT chairman Tia Longchar demanding police action against those involved in the case.

PAC: Meanwhile, PAC Dimapur expressed shock and condemned the demand note served on Maruti Arena, Daroga-

pathar, Dimapur, by NSCN (U) and also for harassing the staff of the showroom. PAC reiterated that while the entire nation was on lockdown and where every business had come to a standstill, such action should be condemned by all right thinking citizens.

PAC pointed out that the establishment had opened just opened for a week and was struggling even to pay the salaries of the staff. It urged upon the district authorities to check all illegal collections and nab those responsible.

DVC: Darogapathar Village Council (DVC) has vehemently condemned what it described as “inhuman, barbaric and cowardice act of NNPG” cadres, who allegedly demanded “tax” from the proprietor of M/s Progressive Motors Dimapur.

In a press release, DVC chairman Nungtok Meren Jamir and secretary K .Ado Bizo cautioned that the particular faction would be held solely responsible if any untoward incidents occurred to any members of TK Service/Progressive Motors.

DVC also appealed to all responsible citizens to speak out against “such unlawful acts executed by the national workers”.

Further, the council appealed to the law enforcing agencies to be vigilant and bring those responsible to book and curb all illegal activities at the earliest.

Meanwhile, DVC has reaffirmed its August 18, 2016 resolutions on ban against any kind of illegal tax collection by individuals or groups.

DVC also reaffirmed its earlier stand of “one government, one tax”.

He said since COVID19 was highly contagious in nature, it was important that Nagaland had a highly specialised facility for detection which required a special laboratory for testing samples as there was still no vaccine against COVID-19.

He thanked the biotechnology department under the Union Ministry of Science & Technology for providing the space to house the State Referral BSL-3 lab. He said work on the laboratory began in April, starting with lab design and layout plan.

He also thanked Nagaland governor RN Ravi, for his keen interest in setting up of the laboratory, his logistical support by following it up with the government of India and personally monitoring the progress of works and also the chief minister for his support.

Though work on such a lab typically required six months or more, especially in a State like Nagaland, Pangnyu however said the project materialised in about a month’s time, complete with world-class equipment and containment building.

BSL-3 to begin tests from today

With two machines and each having a capacity to handle 35 samples in a day, the BSL-3 laboratory will begin testing COVID19 samples from Friday.

Talking to Nagaland Post, H&FW secretary Kesonyu Yhome said the specialised lab, besides COVID-19, could be used for varied purposes in future like testing samples for new unidentified infections whenever there were any such outbreaks.

The lab would also be able to characterise a lot of diseases, which would help medical professionals to better understand and address them.

Pointing out that there were research works going on for cancer and genetic linkages, Yhome remarked that the BSL-3 lab could become a focal hub for the Northeast in this regard.

He asserted that the lab would also help encourage Nagas with scientific temperament to enter into molecular biology, thereby creating a pool of qualified human resource, besides (Cont’d on p-5) providing employment.

Temporary restriction on lockdown in Dimapur DIMAPUR, MAY 21 (NPN): In view of the arrival of a special train to Dimapur from Chennai, with around over 1000 stranded citizens, on May 22, the deputy commissioner Dimapur Anoop Khinchi has ordered closure of all shops/markets with effect from 12 noon till midnight of May 22. DC stated that this was necessitated as a measure to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Vehicular movement restricted

In another notification, Commissioner of Police Dimapur, R. Tetseo has ordered restriction of all vehicular movements within Dimapur town one hour prior to the arrival of the special train from Chennai, (expected arrival 1 p.m. on May 22) and four hours post arrival of the train.

CP has further informed that the restriction will also apply to exempted categories earlier notified. In this regard, CP has sought the cooperation of all in the interest of public safety.

Govt issue guidelines for domestic air travel national, Page 5

Cyclone Amphan kills 72 in Bengal KOLKATA/BHUBANESWAR, MAY 21 (PTI): CCyclone Amphan weakened Thursday, a day after tearing through West Bengal where 72 people were killed and two districts were “completely devastated” with thousands of people left homeless, bridges washed away and low-lying areas in waist deep water.

The fiercest cyclone to hit West Bengal in 100 years destroyed mud houses and crops, and uprooted trees and electric poles. It also wreaked havoc in Odisha damaging power and telecom infrastructure in several coastal districts. Odisha government officials estimated that the cyclone has affected around 44.8 lakh people in the state.

“So far as per the reports we have received, 72 people have died in the state due to Cyclone Amphan.

Two districts -- North and South 24 Pargana -- are completely devastated. We have to rebuild those districts from scratch. I would urge the Central government to extend all help to the state,” Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee told reporters after conducting a review meeting. The chief minister also announced a compensa-

A scooterist tries to pass under an uprooted tree in the aftermath of super cyclone ‘Amphan’, in Kolkata, Thursday. (PTI)

tion of Rs 2 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh for family members of each of the deceased.

Besides North and South 24 Parganas and Kolkata, the districts of East Midnapore and Howrah were the worst hit as portions of several dilapidated buildings came crashing down in several places.

The death toll included 17 from North 24 Parganas, 15 from Kolkata, 10 from Basirhat and four from the South 24 Parganas-Sunderban region, officials said.

Senior officials of West Bengal government said it was too early to estimate the exact death toll or damage to property as worst hit areas were still not accessible.

In Kolkata, hundreds of cars were overturned in the strong winds with speed up to 125 kmph that also

felled trees and electricity poles blocking key arterial roads and intersections.

Large parts of Kolkata and other affected districts went without power.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said no stone will be left unturned in helping those affected by the cyclone. Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said the cyclone has weakened significantly and moved to Bangladesh where 10 people have been killed.

National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) reviewed rescue and relief operations in West Bengal and Odisha at a meeting in Delhi and was told that minimal loss of lives was reported due to accurate forecast by IMD and timely deployment of NDRF troops.

ANCSU places key demands before state govt D I M A P U R , M AY 2 1 (NPN): All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) has urged state government departments including planning and finance to expedite the process of issuing drawal authority for Post Matric Scholarship (PMS) 2019-2020. ANCSU placed several points during a joint meeting with the officials of higher education department on May 19, 2020.

In a press release, ANCSU president Vimeyiekho Vitso and General Secretary Imnameren N Jamir said the department informed that drawal authority was expected in the next few days.

According to ANCSU, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has sanctioned and released an amount of Rs.17.30 crore as first instalment of 50% central share for PMS ST 2019-2020.

At the meeting, the union said it also urged the department to advise the

Nagaland University for early issue of notification/ guidelines relating to exam and academic calendar.

Further, the union appealed to the department to find ways to waive fees of the economically weak students. It also expressed concern that both teaching and non teaching staff should not be deprived of their salary and welfare.

On concerns of admission to first semester, ANCSU appealed the department to issue common directive to all colleges to intake maximum students for the next academic session. To this, the department assured its seriousness and concern, it said.

The union said it also suggested that every college should start preparing for online facilities as pandemic has become uncertain.

On its demand for stern action against hostels that asked some students were to vacate during the lockdown

period, ANCSU said the department assured that such hostel permits would be cancelled and necessary action would be taken.

Expressing concern over the requisition of colleges and hostels as quarantine centres, the union stated the district administration should take the confidence of the department, college/ institute authority and concern village council for such requisition.

Meanwhile, ANCSU has acknowledged the higher education department and the state government for positively responding to its demand of posting principals to government colleges without principals through a notification dated May 21, 2020.

Plea for exam centers in districts: In the wake of All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE) notification to conduct exams, the ANCSU has appealed to the department of techni-

cal education to formulate and establish exam centres in every district to conduct Nagaland State Entrance Exam (NSEE), Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and North East Council (NEC) examination.

In a letter to the technical education director, ANCSU president Vimeyiekho Vitso and General Secretary Imnameren N Jamir said the candidates should also be given preference to choose their exam centres so no students was deprived of appearing exam.

ANCSU urged the department to identify such exams centres at the earliest and keep ready necessary preparations relating to exam and fight the threat of COVID-19.

The union also appealed for releasing the state technical scholarship to the beneficiaries without any further delay as the amount had been already sanctioned and released.

‘Accommodating all returnees at Dmu challenging’ India COVID tally crosses 1.16L Govt extends provisions of exD I M A P U R , M AY 2 1 (NPN): Despite trying their level best, the issue of accommodation is becoming a huge challenge for Team Dimapur as people from outside the State are arriving by railways and roadways.

This is it!

“Ho. Your vehicle seems to have last digit which can be turned to odd or even number.”

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Agriculture production commissioner (APC) and in-charge of Dimapur for COVID-19 related activities, Y. Kikheto Sema warned that if Dimapur hosted returnees of Peren and Mon districts in addition to Dimapur-based returnees, there would be hardly any accommodation left even as another special train with 90 Dimapurbound passengers on board is expected between May 24 and 25 from Gurgaon.

He expressed concern that although no official letter had been received, the cabinet decision as per discussion at 10 am on Thursday for housing Peren and Mon returnees at Dimapur by superseding the earlier decision that returnees of these two districts would be sent to their home districts after their arrival had been communicated. Of the 1,467 passengers on board the spe-

cial train from Chennai that is expected to reach here on Friday afternoon, 1075 (73%) of them will have to be quarantined at the town, while the remaining 402 (27%) hailing from other districts will be transported to Kohima.

Mentioning that he would appreciate if the decision was taken by taking into account the ground realities, the APC however added as a public servant he would carry out the instruction. But he cautioned that if returnees of other districts were housed here, within no time there would be no space left for accommodating the returnees hailing from Dimapur.

Observing that every district had an efficient administration and district task force, Kikheto hoped that they would gear up facilities to take in the stranded people of their own districts.

Meanwhile, Kikheto expressed surprise that some colonies/villages and even parents were refusing to come and take their children even after the quarantine period was over.

Ganeshnagar to be quarantine centre

As reported earlier in this newspaper, State government has decided to set up an Institutional Quarantine Centre for the stranded persons returning to Nagaland at the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Ganeshnagar under Dimapur district.

According to DIPR, DIG Training Chumukedima Aotemsu has been assigned as overall in charge of the Quarantine Centre and he would put in place for all arrangements including food, basic amenities and logistics etc.

NEW DELHI, MAY 21 (PTI): India’s COVID-19 tally crossed 1.16 lakh on Thursday with more than half of it getting reported in just about a fortnight amid large-scale movement of migrants in special trains and arrival of stranded Indians and expatriates from abroad.

The nationwide death toll due to the deadly virus infection has neared 3,500 with a mortality rate of about 3 per cent, while more than 47,000 have recovered so far.

In its morning 8 AM update, the Union Health Ministry said the death toll due to COVID-19 has risen to 3,435 and the number of confirmed cases to 1,12,359 in the country, registering an increase of 132 deaths and 5,609 cases in the last 24 hours. It put the number of active cases at 63,624 and recoveries at over 45,000.

However, a PTI tally of figures announced by different states and union territories, as of 9.30 PM, showed a higher number of confirmed cases at 1,16,295 and the death toll at 3,494. It showed an increase of 5,705 cases and 139 fatalities since Wednesday evening, while recoveries also rose during this period by more than 2,700 to 47,487.

Nagaland: Results of 23 awaited DIMAPUR, MAY 21 (NPN): Out of 1,001 COVID19 suspected samples sent for testing, results of 978 samples have reported to be negative, while results of 23 samples were awaited, state government spokesperson and minister, Neiba Kronu secretary informed.

Altogether 27 samples were also tested using Truenat testing machine and all were negative.

gratia payment, assistance

D I M A P U R , M AY 2 1 (NPN): State government has announced extending payment of Rs 10 lakh as ex-gratia to any of its employee suffering fatality due to COVID-19 while performing duties. This will cover drivers, cleaners, sanitary workers, caterers and all such personnel/workers involved in the management of quarantine centres in the State, besides any non-government functionary involved in any other activities for combating the pandemic under the district task forces, state government spokesperson and minister, Neiba Kronu said during the daily briefing.

Further, in a huge relief, the government also decided to again provide another opportunity to citizens of Nagaland outside the state, who have voluntarily de-

cided to stay back, to register on the portal iamstranded. nagaland.gov.in to avail the one-time assistance of Rs 10,000.

In another huge development, Rs 50 lakh out of the total allocation of Rs 150 lakh per Assembly constituency for LADP funds will be earmarked for implementation of projects to strengthen health infrastructure, quarantine facilities for COVID-19 and certain other activities under agriculture and allied sectors.

Stating this, Kronu said the upper ceiling of expenditure for quarantine facilities would be Rs 10 lakh and Rs 15 lakh for agri and allied activities, while the remaining Rs 50 lakh would be used for strengthening health infrastructure.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

NSUI propose measures Various agencies continue with MMRVCF visits sinking for schools and colleges relief ration to needy households area at Chungtia village

Members of MMRVCF, CVC, and EE NH Mokokchung at the sinking area.

DIMAPUR: With NH 702D being the lifeline for four districts and the necessity for improvement of the same, the Mokokchung to Marani Roadside Villagers Concerned Forum (MMRVCF) office bearers, Chungtia Village Council (CVC) members along with chairman and NH 702D officials lead by Chubatoshi, EE, NH Mokokchung division and his colleagues vis-

ited sinking area at Chungtia village on May 20.

A press release from MMRVCF convenor Imchawati Kichu, stated that MMRVCF identified concerns regarding machinery and urged that help of state government was required on human resources. The for um lear nt that one new JCB (excavator) was brought to the said high way which was out of use

owing to an accident.

MMRVCF also stated that it would continue to support the department as well as the state government for the improvement of NH 702D road. Meanwhile, the department had been conducting its routine work and found the works satisfactory, however the sinking area was difficult to control due to natural calamities.

NTCP Zunheboto seize and destroys tobacco products

people about the harmful and deadly affect of consuming tobacco. More than 100 packets of tobacco products were seized by the team and burned far away from the town area.

DIMAPUR: Raising concern over the academic career of students due to the pandemic, the National Students’ Union India (NSUI) Nagaland has called upon people to adopt innovative ways to mitigate problems and has therefore suggested certain measures.

A press release from NSUI Nagaland media cell stated that, online classes have been adopted by most of the institutions in view of the closure of schools and colleges. However, NSUI pointed out that there was a huge underlying problem due to poor network connectivity.

In this regard, it urged network service providers to provide seamless internet connectivity at least during the lockdown period to ensure online classes are not disrupted. In the case of middle and primary classes and those from underprivileged backgrounds where online classes were not viable option, the NSUI stated that school authority should ensure that hard copies of study materials were prepared and made available at very reasonable rates.

In this connection, the teacher may prepare notes and submit them to the school once a week which in turn could be collected by the parents, stated the release. Taking into account the plight of most of the private school/college teachers who were paid a meagre salary of Rs. 5000-

10000 per month, NSUI stated that it would be unjust to demand waiving of school/college fees, but superfluous expenditures maybe cut and the same be refunded to the students. NSUI further suggested that activities such as annual sports, teachers day, parents day, freshers/ parting social, retreats, etc maybe be cancelled and the amount for the same be adjusted with the school/ college fees.

Touching upon other expenditures such as laboratory fee, computer fee, library fee, ANPSA charges, welfare fund and school/college development/maintenance fees, the NSUI stated that these may also be curbed and adjusted with the school/college fees. NSUI requested school/college authorities not to pressurise such parents to pay fees on time and instead identify such parents and strategise ways such as extending deadline or paying fees in instalment basis till they are able to pay in full.

Further, NSUI appealed the government to pay private teachers who were receiving meagre salary with an upfront amount as one-time payment to meet the exigencies arising out of the pandemic. NSUI also appealed citizens to stay indoors and practice social distancing and encouraged students to use the lockdown period to enhance their knowledge.

DIMAPUR: Relief rations for daily wage earners and other needy households continue to be distributed by various agencies during the lockdown period.

Relief packages at HCHSS Dimapur: Distribution of relief packages for daily wage earners/labourers exercise was completed on Wednesday at Holy Cross HSS auditorium, Dimapur.

ADC Dimapur, V Lovitoly Sema, who inspected the distribution on the final day conveyed gratitude to Holy Cross Parish and Fr. Thomas, chairman of Holy Cross, for letting the district administration to utilize the

auditorium and premise for storing, packaging and onward distribution of the relief packages, free of cost.

ADC also lauded various organizations including the Dimapur Municipal Council, Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Naga Council Dimapur and Red Cross Society for assisting the administration in the relief distribution exercise. The state government had earlier allotted 11,000 relief packages for Dimapur district.

Mokokchung Battalion relief ration: Mokokchung Battalion contributed essential ration items to a food bank facility established by

Mokokchung district administration. The initiative was a gesture to reach out to struggling residents of the district amid the lockdown.

Kiphire Battalion essential commodities: Kiphire Battalion of Assam Rifles carried out interaction programme with widows and widowers of Kiphire village on May 17. Essential commodities and masks were also distributed to residents.

A total of 30 widows, widowers were extended with necessary assistance. The village functionaries and beneficiaries extended gratitude to the battalion for the humanitarian gesture.

EduCentre Nagaland streams live sessions

DIMAPUR: EduCentre Nagaland, an education company that presents study plans for undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) courses in India and abroad has been conducting live sessions, “know your college” through their Instagram account @educentrenagaland to connect with students’ executives of different colleges and various people who specialise in certain fields from across the country for interactions and Q&A sessions.

According to a press release, the live

session is aimed to help students acquire better knowledge of different colleges for further studies and held from 7 to 8 p.m every Wednesday and Saturday. EduCentre also informed that three live sessions would be held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Meanwhile, its management team stated that there would be more sessions for NEET, JEE, banking exams, competitive exams, entrepreneurship and networking business to help students community benefit from the sessions during the lockdown.

OBITUARY

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ODE TO OUR BELOVED SON

NTCP, district administration and police officials with the seized tobacco products.

DIMAPUR: National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) along with the district administration and Police on Wednesday took the initiative with Dr. Esther leading the team in seizing

tobacco products in and around Zunheboto town. A press release informed that, this initiative was taken up in order to make the town tobacco free and also create awareness among the

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We, the family members of Lt. M. TONGPANG CHANG, would like to convey our profound gratitude to, Olive Christian Hospital and Research Centre Dimapur, various Churches, Organisations, Naharbari Village and Youths, Chang Community in and around Dimapur and all well wishers, for your kind help and supporting us spiritually, financially, materially and physically, during his brief illness and sad demise on 25-04-2020.

Our words are inadequate to thank each and every one of you but we pray and hope that God Almighty bless each and every one of you abundantly.

Loving Wife, Sons, Daughters & Relatives.

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“Oh!My sweetest son, you were the most precious gift of god.

Though your journey with us, was for a short span of time, you gave us more than we expected.

Your smile, hugs, sweet kisses, act of kindness and to be happy even in difficult times always reminds us of you.

We promise to live the life that you have showed us.

Your face truly reflected the light of God in our hearts.

We miss you dearly ilokiu Akuvu, rest in peace Till we meet again in heaven.”

Words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends, well-wishers, organization & family members at the sudden demise of our beloved son Nikuvu Jimo on 18-05-2020, we thank you for your prayer and support during this difficult hour.

We convey our special ‘Thank You’ to: 1. Mrs/Mr S. Hukavi Zhimomi, Ex. Parl. Secy 2. Mrs/Mr Zheito Chophy, Ex- Candidate 36 A/C Satakha 3. Rev. Ghoheto Jimo, Evangelist W.S.B.A.K. 4. Mrs/Mr Lhokuto Z. Chishi, Fin. Secy. GPRN/ NSCN (U).

5. Mrs/Mr Akheto, G.M. DIC Zunheboto 6. Khukiye Lukhai Ghami Kupushukulu Dimapur Nikuvu Jimo 7. Staff & Students of G.P.S. Hozukhe Born on-15-08-2018 8. Nagamese Baptist Church Rangapahar Died on- 18-05-2020 9. Grace Bible Fellowship Nagaland Zoological Park 10. Residential Union, Nagaland Zoological Park 11. S. Hukavi Zhimomi Colony Baptist Fellowship; General, W/Dept, Y/Dept, SS/ Dept.

12. Azalimi S.H.G. S. Hukavi Zhimomi Colony.

We regret our inability to thank each and every individual, but we pray that may God bless you all.

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Loving Mom, Dad, Amu Anguka & Family Members

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

L. Khezheto Awomi (Nihoshe Village) Died on 22-05-2019

1922-2019

A year has passed since you left for heavenly abode on this day 22nd May 2019, Your kind hearted nature and loving care towards us is an inspiration to our life, You were a brave, stout and reformer in your generation which shall be cherished by your children’s children, your memories are still afresh in our minds, We shall meet again in heaven.

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Loving, Children, in-laws and grandchildren

23.08.1994 – 11.05.2020 “GONE FROM OUR SIGHT, BUT NOT FROM OUR HEARTS” Through this column, we convey our profound and heartfelt indebtedness to all those who stood by us physically, materially, financially, emotionally and through constant prayer support during the brief illness and untimely demise of our dearest daughter Late Ms. Kalisangla M Imchen (Mangmetong) on 11.05.2020 Our special thanks to: 1. Dr. Neithongulie Pienyu MD, Dr. Daili Athikho 7. Kumlong Baptist Arogo Mokokchung MD, Nurses and Staff of Zion Hospital and 8. Mangmetong Baptist Arogo Research Centre Dimapur.

9. Mangmetong Kaketshir Telongjem (MKT) 2. Mangmetong Senso Telongjem Dimapur 10. Mangmetong Students’ Union, Mokokchung Unit 3. Mangmetong Senso Telongjem Mokokchung 11. Rev. Lima Jamir, Pastor, Rev. Kika Pastor DABA 4. Viola Colony Dimapur 12. Rev. N. I. Meren Jamir 5. St. Joseph University Dimapur, HoD (History) 13. Relatives, friends and well-wishers from Kohima Asstt. Prof. and Mokokchung for warm welcome with 6. Mongsenbai Ward Yimten Mokokchung refreshment.

We deeply regret our inability to thank every well-wisher by name, yet it is our sincere prayer that our Almighty God bless you abundantly.

Loving family members.

MKC-128

LATE IMKIUMONG CHANG 7TH MARCH 1937 – 17TH MAY 2020 “Thy remembrance shall endure into all generations.” –Psalm 102:12 Words are inadequate to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who stood by us spiritually, physically and materially supporting us with your loving and caring presence during the darkest hour at the sudden demise of our beloved father at Saksi NAP Sector, Tuensang. We pray God Almighty bless you all abundantly in return for your good deeds.

Loving wife, children, in-laws & grand children.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We would like to sincerely express our heartfelt and profound gratitude to all concern for their compassion and valuable support at the sudden demise of our beloved mother Late Mrs. S. Jongshikokla Chang on 13.05.2020 as follows to mention a few: • Chang Baptist Church, Naga United Village, • Longra Bukmut Fellowship, Dimapur • Chang Baptist Church, Dimapur along with Women Deptt • Chang Union, Dimapur & Changsao Thangjam Dimapur • Chang Baptist Fellowship, Naharbari • Chang Baptist Church, Diphupar B • Longra Baptist Church, Village Council & Students Union • Longsing Baptist Fellowship • Noksen Village Council • New Yaongyimti Village Council & Baptist Church • Tuensang Town Longra Union & Saoshong Thangjam • Noksen Town Longra Union • Chang Baptist Church Mokokchung • Chang Baptist Fellowship, Kiphire.

• Tonen SHG • Mr & Mrs. C.M.Chang, Hon’ble Minister.

• Mr & Mrs. H. Chuba Chang, Ex. Minister • Er. L. Chuba Chang SE, Water Resources, Kma • Mr & Mrs. M. Shayung Phom, DC, Longleng • Mr & Mrs. W. Chingmak Chang.

• Mr & Mrs. Tiameren ADC, • Mr & Mrs. I. Lanu, Kma • Mr & Mrs. Birimong, SDO(c) • Mr & Mrs. S. Sanglee, RTO, Kma • Mrs A. Sentila, • Smt. A. Anti. DPO • Mr & Mrs. Wapongchuba Chang, • Mr & Mrs. Thongo Imlong • Rev & Mrs. Achu ES, CBLT • Mr & Mrs. B. Chikum Chang, RSEO • Mr & Mrs. Limaonen, OSD • Mr & Mrs. B. Moba, Kilonser, • Mr & Mrs Chubakhumba • Mrs Achila Imlong • Mr & Mrs Saoyang Imlong

• Mr. Yanger, Pastor, Yimjong, Thungtiyimba, Mrs Temsula, Mr & Mrs. Lanuakum, L. Mongko, Nokyu, T. Chuba, Sangchu, Sobo, Hongsa, Sangbou, I. Ongphang, Khuti.

• Mr & Mrs Y. Malem • Mr & Mrs Mamachingmak, Smt. Rami, Mrs Tosangla & Robert.

• Tauluh Shisishousi Yangpi • Mr & Mrs. I. Rongba • Rev & Mrs. S Takam • Dr & Mrs. I. N. Somba • Mr & Mrs. Shekhayi Rhakho Somet • Mr & Mrs. I. Lanuchuba Chang • Mr & Mrs. I. Lanutoshi Chang • I. Meren Phangsang • N. Akhong • Mr & Mrs. N. Toshi • Mr & Mrs. E. Koiba GB • Mr & Mrs. M.T. Meren, Hd. GB • Mr & Mrs. I. M. Shilu Family.

• Kangshou Chumpen, • R. Imna.

• Mr. S. Manen • Mr. I. Imlong • Mr & Mrs. Takapsiba • K. Among, H. Chingmak, Imlitemjen • Relatives, friends, in-laws, well-wishers, and neighbours.

We deeply regret our inability to mention everyone but it is our humble prayer that the Almighty God bless each and every one abundantly. Thank you all.

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Loving Children & Grandchildren.

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State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

COVID-19: Meetings, appeals, monitoring of quarantine centres in the state

DIMAPUR: Preventive guidelines and awareness has been stepped up by state government with the arrival of stranded persons, currently placed in designated institutional quarantine centres. With more stranded expected to arrive, it has become not only the responsibility of the government agencies but of public to strictly adhere to the government guidelines. Meanwhile, legislators have been making their visit to various districts as a follow up and holding review meetings with district frontline workers. Concerned civil organisations have been responsibly voicing out the needs of their respective districts to the government for necessary redressal. District administrations have been keeping a check on the quarantine centres and cautioning returnees to be responsible for their safety as well as of others.

Peren DISTRICT

JAC on COVID-19 Peren appeals state govt for safety of citizens

Namri Nchang, Temjen Imna Along, T. R. Zeliang during the coordination meeting on May 21. (DIPR)

Legislators visit Peren and holds coordination meeting Legislator in-charge of Peren District COVID19, Namri Nchang, advisor of Water Resources and minister of Higher &Technical Education & Tribal Affairs, Temjen Imna Along with Leader of Opposition, T.R. Zeliang visited Peren on May 21 and held a coordination meeting with Peren DTF, department officers, civil societies and church organizations of Peren district at DC conference hall, Peren.

According to DIPR report, CMO Peren gave a brief report on the basic equipment available at Peren district designated COVID Hospital CHC Jalukie. He said basic requirements will increase as and when any eventualities related to positive case of COVID-19 arise in the district.

During the official visit, Imna Along said the safety of the district depended on the district administration and all the stakeholders, therefore he called upon all the civil societies & church organizations to extend constant support to the district administration in the fight against the pandemic. Irrespective of political parties, Along urged the gathering to work cohesively during COVID crisis and also made an appeal to the district administration and Medical team that besides

thermal screening, returnees from outside the state has to undergo proper test. He said they should not be immediately sent to their respective village quarantine centres so as to avoid the spread of virus.

In the course of meeting, Imna also suggested DC Peren who is also the DTF chairman to create Peren District COVID-19 Whatsapp group in order to remain in constant contact between the legislator in-charge and Peren District COVID-19 DTF members.

Speaking at the meeting, T.R. Zeliang asserted that it was the responsibility of the Medical department to protect the frontline workers and asked the department to organize sensitisation and awareness programme for civil society leaders, church leaders, village leaders, frontline workers as well as create their own quarantine guidelines for Peren at the earliest.

Advisor of Water Resources, Namri Nchang while addressing also appealed the gathering to maintain discipline and adhere with the guidelines issued by the government.

Later, the visiting team also had a short discussion with the DTF members and Peren District COVID-19 Joint Action Committee on how to go about when returnees from Chennai arrived.

Raising concern over the number of stranded citizens returning from different parts of the country particularly from red zones, the Joint Action Committee (JAC) on COVID-19 Peren district has appealed to the state government to ensure safety of the citizens of Peren district.

In a representation addressed to the additional chief secretary and Finance commissioner-cum-convenor Empowered Group Nagaland, the JAC convenor Dr. Tumda Newme urged the government to fully equip the designated COVID-19 Hospital at the earliest. JAC stated COVID-19 Hospital Jalukie town did not have even a single proper ICU bed except for the single bed recently located at the isolation ward, and a portable small size ventilator which came attached with the ambulance.

Further, JAC stated that village authorities were made to use village facility for institutional quarantine for the first batch of returnees from Guwahati (red zone) on May 16. It said majority of the returnees were sent for home quarantine in spite of standing SOP for mandatory institutional quarantine for 14 days.

JAC also said that second batch of returnees on May 18 were sent to respective villages for institutional quarantine at village.

It stated that the instances clearly depicted the “callous handling” of returnees by the responsible authorities in the district deviating from the SOP endangering the lives of citizens of the district. JAC has cautioned that should COVID-19 case(s) arise from such unsafe facilities, the responsibility would fall on the district administration. JAC, therefore, appealed the responsible authority to initiate corrective measures at the earliest before the “pandemic runs out of hand in the district.”

Dimapur DISTRICT

CIEC council informs stranded returnees

Council of Industrial Estate Colony (CIEC) Dimapur has informed all households under its ju-

risdiction, that the council and its youth forum has resolved that no stranded returnees from outside the state would be entertained/ allowed to enter the colony nagalandpost.com Poll jurisdiction without knowlQ.: Are facilities at COVID edge of council and the quarantine centres in youth forum.

Nagaland adequate?

A press release from chairman, CIEC, Wuthun100% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– go Lotha and president, 90% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CIEC Youth Forum, Ben80% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– dang Pongener, stated that if 70% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 60% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– any stranded returnee com50% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– pletes mandatory 14 days 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

A B C

institutional quarantine at government designated centres and were supposed to return/enter to the colony, another compulsory 14 days home quarantine should be further observed, after communicating with colony council and the youth forum. The colony council and youth forum, further voiced strongly against noncompliance of the laid down rules, which could result in inviting undesirable action on defaulters.

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

A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

Mokokchung DISTRICT

C

43% 57% 0%

Next poll

Q: Is the govt monitoring

and enforcing prices of commodities?  Yes.  No.  Can’t say.

WEATHER FORECAST May 22

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala A shower and t-storm around 32 24 Aizawl

A shower and t-storm around 26 19

Guwahati Rain and a thunderstorm

26 23

A shower or thunderstorm

27 20

Itanagar Mostly cloudy, a little rain

25 21

Shillong Periods of rain and a t-storm

19 17

Imphal

Kohima

A shower and t-storm around 23 17

Dimapur A shower and t-storm around 27 22 Mkg

A shower and t-storm around 25 19

Tuensang Variably cloudy, p.m. showers 19 14 Wokha

A shower and t-storm around 23 19

Zunheboto A shower and t-storm around 23 17

Clark Memorial Higher Secondary School building at Impur, set up as quarantine centre. (DIPR)

ABAM allows use of facilities at Impur Ao Baptist Church Association (ABAM), Impur has stepped up in shouldering responsibility by allowing use of facilities at Impur to set up quarantine centre and also to provide food for the returnees from outside the state. According to DIPR report, during an interview with ABAM executive secretary, Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger expressed that the quarantine centre at Impur would accommodate 200 people.

He said ABAM has ear-

marked a budget of Rupees 17 lakhs for running the quarantine centre for which the churches has come forward to contribute towards the ABAM COVID-19 relief fund. Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger said that returnees who come to Impur must think that they were coming home, while adding that apart from providing food and lodging, the church take this as an opportunity to extend love and care in practical towards humanity.

Tuensang DISTRICT

Phek DISTRICT

DC Tuensang, Kumar Rajnikant speaking at the Neiba Kronu addressing the coordination meeting at emergency meeting held on May 21. (DIPR) Pfutsero on May 20.

Emergency TDTF meeting held

Tuensang District Task Force (DTF) for COVID-19 held an emergency meeting at DC’s conference hall Tuensang on May 21. According to DIPR report, meeting discussed on the modification made on new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) dated May 18. It discussed to apprise higher ups to consider and stick to the previous SOP to keep the stranded individuals for three days and then send to the respective districts. The forum also discussed for the expansion of the QC to Noklak and Shamator after

thorough study of the infrastructure and man power.

On the issues of bedding at the quarantine centres, the tribal bodies are requested to come up with more beddings to cover those who belong to far flung villages and those unable to afford and for the rest, parents have been advised to come up with the beddings. On food management at the quarantine centers Chang Baptist Lashong Thangyen is initiating while the Tuensang Town Pastors Union is supporting the whole processes as reported.

YTC asks govt employees to be in station

Yimchungrü Tribal Council (YTC) has directed HoDs and government employees to station at their respective place of posting, under its jurisdictions i.e., ADC, office Shamator and Pungro, SDO (civil) office, Chessore and EAC, offices, Kiusam, Mangko, Tsurungto, Sotokur and Khongsa with immediate effect. President and secretary of YTC in a press release stated that “everyone’s valuable services” should “be counted at this need of the hour of unrest situation”. The council informed that it would organise surprise checking in all government departmental offices shortly and if any officer or HoD was found absent from his/her duty, the report shall be intimated to the competent authority for further course of action.

59 stranded persons return to Tuensang

As per DIPR report of May 21, a total number of stranded individuals have reached 59 and are stationed at the designated quarantine centres, namely 48 at Sao Chang Govern-

ment College and 11 at JNV Chare. So far the returnees are 42 from Assam, 12 from Meghalaya, 1 each from UP and West Bengal and 3 from Arunachal Pradesh.

Longleng DISTRICT

DC Longleng issues precautionary measures

Deputy commissioner (DC), Longleng has informed all dog owners of Longleng town that dogs straying in and around quarantine centres in search of food were a threat to the health and safety of the public as facility institutional quarantine has been setup in and around the Longleng town to accommodate stranded persons from other states. According to DIPR report, as precautionary measures and to control and contain the spread of COVID-19, all dog owners in Longleng town have been directed to ensure that their dogs are chained or confined within their compound until further notice. Necessary actions will be initiated against the defaulters as per relevant provisions of the national disaster management act 2005 and IPC, section 188.

In another order, DC Longleng requisitioned the following as institutional quarantine centres as it had become imperative for the district to setup additional facility quarantine to accommodate stranded people coming back from other states; St. Joseph High School, Longleng, Nyenching Government High School, Longleng and district Industries and Com-

merce office, Longleng. Further, all management aspects of the building will be under the authority and control of the district administration till the end of the current COVID-19 pandemic crisis/ further order.

Meanwhile, in regard to the suspected outbreak of anthrax from the office of the chief veterinary officer (CVO), Longleng, it has been proved that the earlier suspicion of the outbreak of anthrax disease is negative.

According to DIPR report, the report has further revealed that an outbreak of hemorrhagic septicemia, a disease caused in bovine by pasteurella multocida which is not zoonotic but contagious and highly fatal in mithuns, cattles, buffaloes and goats occurred in Sakshi block.

In this regard, the deputy commissioner, Longleng in a partial modification of the earlier order dated May 11, ban on selling/slaughter of cattles, mithuns, buffaloes and goats and also import of the aforementioned bovines only from Sakshi block is extended until further order.

Further the earlier order of banning the sell/slaughter of the aforementioned animals in other parts of the district is relaxed.

Kohima DISTRICT

Tseminyu ADC reviews quarantine centres District administration of Tseminyu sub-division including village councils of respective villages led by ADC Nokchasashi Kichu, SDO (C) Tsutsowe and EAC Tsogin Rozy Sangtam are fully engaged in reviewing the construction jobs for upgrading the proposed quarantine centres/buildings in Tseminyu sub-division, where each returnees from outside the state has to be provided separate bed room cham-

bers, toilets and water tap for hand wash. According to DIPR report, ADC Nokchasashi inspected the ongoing upgradation works for COVID-19 quarantine centre at GHSS building Old Tseminyu Town on May 21, and thanked the volunteers of NYKS and GBs of Tseminyu town for their tireless service. The inspection was accompanied by Major Dahir ‘E’ company, COB Tseminyu 40 AR of 5 Sector AR.

Coordination meeting of Phek legislators

Phek district legislators, NGOs and district administration held a coordination meeting convened by Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) at Pfutsero on May 20. According to a press release, while speaking at the coordination meeting, minister of Planning and Coordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs, Neiba Kronu sought support from the public.

Kronu, who is also the minister in-charge of Phek District Level Task Force on COVID-19 expressed gratitude to Chakhesang Baptist Church Council for allotting its mission centre as one of the quarantine centres for returnees and appreciated DC, SP, CMO Phek, churches and civil societies for their continuous efforts and initiatives amid the pandemic. During the meeting, Kronu stated that Phek district legislators being the first legislators from Nagaland to purchase equipments and distribute the same to the public, assured to make the equipments available for various health centres as and when required.

He called upon the people to ponder over the status of the state’s economy and how to attain self-sufficiency in the agricultural sector. Stressing on the need to regain and recover the economy, which had been adversely affected due to the pandemic, Kronu said that the government had identified few intellectuals and entrepreneurs and had several rounds of discussion on supply chain. He also informed that state economic strategy committee had been set up.

Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA said that in case of relaxation of lockdown it was the duty of

everyone to try and practice self lockdown and take all precautionary measures.

Expressing concern over false information/propagandas doing the round on social media, he said that educating people has become important.

In this, he requested DC, CPO, church leaders and frontline workers to disseminate correct information to the public for a healthy society and requested DC and SP Phek to enforce lockdown guidelines effectively within the district. Azo also requested CPO to call for another meeting on the confronting economic issue which, he said was more dangerous.

Meanwhile, speaking on quarantine facilities under Phek district, CPO president Mikha Kenye said that Phek district HQs alone cannot host all the returnees and in coordination with the district administration, it decided to divide into four blocks; Phek, Meluri, Pfutsero and Chozuba. He said that CPO had directed concerned villages under its jurisdiction not to construct rules above the guidelines and regulations issued by the health ministry or central/state government.

Earlier, Dr. Chotisuh Sazo MLA, Kezhienyi Khalo MLA, Phek deputy commissioner Sachin Jaiswal, Phek SP Vesupra Kezo, Phek CMO Dr. Vibeituonuo Mepfhuo and Chakhesang Mothers’ Association president Zhonelu Tunyi also spoke at the meeting. Nagaland Medical Council (NMC) president, Dr Joyce Angami and Kohima Educational Trust chairman Dr. P.Ngully also interacted with the public on COVID-19.

SOP for returnees at Pfutsero

SOP for entry of returnees from other states to Pfutsero sub-division, has been issued by additional deputy commissioner Pfutsero Phuleshe K Yepthomi.

According to DIPR report, the SOP are: Returnees inbound for Pfutsero sub-division and initially quarantined at Kohima for three days will not be allowed to disembark mid-way during the course of the onward journey to Pfutsero subdivision; Security deployment is to be arranged

by SDPO Pfutsero at all the quarantine centre ie, CBCC Mission Center, Nazareth School and JNV, Zuketsa; Screening, registration, of all returnees will be compulsorily done

by Medical team upon reaching the quarantine centre; After completion of all the formalities by the receiving/Medical team, the returnees will be sent to their allotted room and bed; Medical team are to be stationed in all the designated quarantine centers and on arrival of the returnees at the institutional quarantine center at CBCC Mission Center, Nazareth School and JNV Zuketsa, the Medical department will take over thereafter; Protocol for institutional quarantine will be as per the provisions notified by the Medical department; The monitoring committee of all the quarantine centres are to co-ordinate with the parents/guardians and ensure that the bedding/toiletries are to be kept ready before the arrival of the returnees; Food and refreshment for the staff and the returnees at all the quarantine centre will be arranged by the mess committee; All grievances of the returnees are to be addressed by the monitoring committee of the quarantine centres; No visitors will be allowed inside the institutional quarantine centres.

Mon DISTRICT

DC Mon warns on non compliance of quarantine

Deputy commissioner Mon, Thavaseelan, K, notified that non compliance of quarantine protocol would lead to stringent actions.

According to DIPR report, there was possible instances, where people may

break quarantine protocol and venture out from the quarantine facility, thereby constituting serious case of non-compliance with the directives notified by the government.

Thus, all quarantined

persons and their family members have been informed that non-compliance with quarantine protocol will attract stringent penal actions under relevant provisions of the law.

4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 165 Dimapur, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

I

Relaxing our guard

n a bid to prevent an economic collapse, the government of India has decided to ease restrictions on lockdown 4.0 with the objective of encouraging the restarting of businesses. Among the most difficult challenge posed on the economy is the stranded migrant labourers and others who have been left to fend for themselves. The closure of business and economic activities has driven lakhs of migrant labourers and workers into penury since their employers are unable to pay them their salaries etc. The movement of lakhs of migrant workers under extreme conditions has pained the nation. The easing of inter-state travel was to run buses and trains to transport stranded persons. Special ‘Shramik trains’ were introduced by the Indian Railways for transporting several thousands of stranded labourers. The special passenger train service was also extended for other stranded people who wished to return to their home states. There are two views about the return of the stranded persons.

While one view was that they cannot be barred from returning to their homes and undertake the mandatory quarantine period; there is another view that bringing back the thousands will open a huge risk of a spike in COVID-19 cases. The latter fear was confirmed by spikes in COVID-19 cases in Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya on May 19 and 20 mainly from the returnees. On May 19, there was spike of 26 new COVID-19 cases in Assam and two new COVID-19 cases in Manipur. All the new COVID-19 cases were those who were among thousands who had returned to the north east from other states, mainly Chennai (Red zone). Then again, on May 20, there were 13 new COVID-19 cases in Assam 16 in Manipur, four in Tripura and one in Meghalaya. The new COVID-19 cases in Assam, Manipur, Tripura and Meghalaya during the two-day period were reported from among the thousands stranded people who returned home.

There is need to look into this aspect on how to ensure that strict and effective screening is done for returnees before they take their journey. Coronavirus cases are seeking a spike in Asia, Europe and scores of US states where lockdowns are being eased to restart businesses. That is not to mean that lockdown should remain under strict regulations. What needs to be understood is that easing restrictions on lockdowns has the potential to spike infections. On May 20, with 5,609 new cases in a single day, the total coronavirus count in India rose to 1,12,442 . As many as 3,438 people have died from the disease so far. The spike in COVID-19 cases has also been alluded on the movement of lakhs of migrant labourers across several states. Maharashtra, the most affected state, reported 2,000-plus cases for a fourth straight day, taking its overall tally to nearly 40,000. In a complete reversal of the stance announced two days previously, the government on Wednesday announced that domestic airline operations would resume from May 25. Three days earlier, while announcing the extension of lockdown, the home ministry had prohibited air transport until May 31. India, in all probability, will see a surge in COVID-19 cases and a new ‘worst’ in the next few weeks, hastened by relaxations in interstate travel and possibly relaxation of international flights as well.

DailyDevotion Having God’s “Unreasonable” Faith Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteous-

ness, and all these things shall be added to you.

—Matthew 6:33 When we look at these words of Jesus, we immediately find them to be the most revolutionary that human ears have ever heard. “…seek first the kingdom of God….” Even the most spiritually-minded of us argue the exact opposite, saying, “But I must live; I must make a certain amount of money; I must be clothed; I must be fed.” The great concern of our lives is not the kingdom of God but how we are going to take care of ourselves to live. Jesus reversed the order by telling us to get the right relationship with God first, maintaining it as the primary concern of our lives, and never to place our concern on taking care of the other things of life. “…do not worry about your life…” (Matthew 6:25). Our Lord pointed out that from His standpoint it is absolutely unreasonable for us to be anxious, worrying about how we will live. Jesus did not say that the person who takes no thought for anything in his life is blessed— no, that person is a fool. But Jesus did teach that His disciple must make his relationship with God the dominating focus of his life, and to be cautiously carefree about everything else in comparison to that. In essence, Jesus was saying, “Don’t make food and drink the controlling factor of your life, but be focused absolutely on God.” Some people are careless about what they eat and drink, and they suffer for it; they are careless about what they wear, having no business looking the way they do; they are careless with their earthly matters, and God holds them responsible.

Jesus is saying that the greatest concern of life is to place our relationship with God first, and everything else second. It is one of the most difficult, yet critical, disciplines of the Christian life to allow the Holy Spirit to bring us into absolute harmony with the teaching of Jesus in these verses.

Quotes

Rough diamonds may sometimes be mistaken for worthless pebbles. ~ Thomas Browne

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Post-mortem

Pastoral care to stranded in times of COVID-19

A

nxiety, fear, doubt, suspicion and uncertainty seem to have clouded our mind and vision of discernment today as we are obstructed amid fighting Covid19 pandemic. A genuine concern for the brothers and sisters who are stranded in different part of India also seems to be vague. While with every passing day I wonder how many of them might be falling victim to emotional, psychological, social, physical, financial and spiritual crisis. At this juncture how are the ones stranded seeing and experiencing the role of the church.Church’s role has always been crucial whenever a state of crisis arises. In times such as now when the physical presence of the church is not possible, I believe the use of technologies as a medium cannot be more meaningful and apt.The simple act of finding ways to connect with them would mean for the church to be real and not just exist.

Almost if not all stranded Nagas belong

to a local church so the respective churches need to sensibly extend and render pastoral care to each of these individuals. The least the church can do is collect the name, phone number, and address of stranded church members and reach out. So then, it is crucial to consider the ground reality of the stranded ones.

At the moment, the stranded are easy victims to feelings of rejection and dejection. For instance, getting false hope of evacuation is not less that they have to deal with the feelings of being unwanted and unwelcomed by their so-called home. Everyday there are numerous heart wrenching write-ups in Facebook, WhatsApp and other social media with negative comments showing resentment about their coming back home. All these negativities adding to untold miseries. Do you even care? What would it be like if you were in their shoes?

The lockdown and the exercise of social-distancing led to less or no social

interaction, hence many suffering loneliness, often over thinking eventually leading to depression. In this situation it is a crucial need that the churches timely take the initiative to find out and keep in touch with the stranded lest if there be any amongst you.

A word of prayer through phone or conveying that the church is with them will not only channel positivity but also boost their spiritual wellbeing. This simple act of concern will make a huge impression on your member care ministry.

The stranded especially in the cities are experiencing enormous sufferings- intolerance, harassment by the landlords, neighborhood and even strangers giving them name tag of Corona virus. It is factual that there is a sense insecurity and apprehension even in doing daily routine such as going to marketplace. In such uncertain circumstances can the church be a source support, help and guidance?

Sure, the church can be a voice of comfort and can

act of relief. To fall sick is a common occurrence however, at present the state is such that the last thing you want is to feel sick. So then, the sick person is not only ill physically, but the psychological health is at stake as well. They had to bear through frustration about their ill health and their vulnerability of being exposed and infected is an obstinate fear. In many occasions, health care is denied to our stranded brothers and sisters because of racial discrimination and nosophobia. At this crisis, can the church organize, arrange and refer doctors with whom the sick persons can consult about the ill health and receive needful help.

Many of the stranded Nagas comprise of students, patients and working people. There are cases wheresome lost their jobs when Covid 19 hit our country, while some were newly employed, and some do not receive salary since the nationwide lockdown was called on.One can imagine the struggles and

Wet market and pandemic: Re-examining our markets

W

e know what a wet market is and probably most of us have been to one. Wet market differs in size, the way it is run, ownership and other aspects. Wet markets are characterized by large number of local sellers selling variety of fresh meat usually butchered in front of the customer, fresh vegetables of seasonal varieties and even exotic wild animals. It is common in countries like china, Southeast Asian countries and even Nagaland. Such markets are common across underdeveloped and developing countries around the world.

Such wet markets have been an integral part of our trading experience with the people of the plains even before the arrival of the British. The importance of wet market as a platform of trading for our local farmers is duly noted. In the context of Nagaland, wet market can be also taken to mean local markets.Apart from

being an important platform for farmers and local traders there is a connection to it in terms of culinary tradition where fresh meat and fresh seasonal vegetables are preferred instead of frozen and packaged food. In addition to that such market has evolved to align with our mode of social interaction and local culture.Such markets are dependent on smaller volume and inconsistent seasonal goods which forms an important part of our dietary habit.

The outbreak of COVID19 pandemic has put wet markets in the lime light where the SARSCOV-2 is suspected to have originated in a wet market in Wuhan, China. Though the world is still looking for an answer as to where the virus originated, the fact that wet market has been responsible for similar outbreak in the past calls for an examination of our practice and food habit. The concern here is not about wet market in general but

on the practice of selling wild animals in our markets along with other farm animals and vegetables.The condition of local markets in our state is anything but hygienic. Open display of wild animals along with other farm products can create a favourable condition for breeding and transmission of infectious disease to humans. In such case we face the danger of pathogens jumping species and causing infectious disease through contact and consumption.

According to a report on Zoonotic Disease, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, United States, 3 out of every 4 new or emerging infectious diseases in people comes from animals. Just because no such cases have been reported in our state does not mean that it never will.

There is a need to create public health awareness on the danger of contracting dangerous diseases from such practices. Here, let us

look at some cases of infectious disease transmission from animals to humans: 1. The 2002-2003 outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus or SARS-CoV-1 was directly linked to wet market in Foshan, China.

It affected 26 countries with more than 8000 confirmed cases in 2003. The virus is believed to have transmitted through animal reservoir like bat that spread to other animals like civet cats in the market and then to humans.

2. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus or MERS-CoV was first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012. MERS-CoV is also a coronavirus that originated in bats. In this case Camels were found to be the reservoir or host animal through which it was transmitted to humans by contact or drinking of Camel milk.

(To be concluded) Imti Ozukum, New Delhi

challenges of some of them in even getting the essentials. Some are surviving with mere biscuits, one day meal, or depending on food relief. There are also cases where some of them are chased out of the rented houses left without a shelter. In such a time of emergency, would it be too demanding if the church can find willing and thoughtful donors to extend financial aid to one of these people.

Due to the constant exposure to fear, anxiety, confusion, disappointments and stress it is likely that the stranded feel void and drained spiritually. It is not surprising that the question about the presence and existence of God has become a personal struggle to many. Naga Christian Fellowship pastors and team workers, I believe are giving their best to keep in touch with their members and enriching them with the word of God and rendering needful help.

However, there is nothing more comforting than the word home. Then, it is

T

opportune for the respective home churches to find thoughtful ways and make member care a priority.

Today as the whole world is in a state of catastrophe it is only right for the churches to become proactive. Therefore, it is a crucial need that each of our local church be sensitive to address to the problems and difficulties faced by their members. If the church remains passive and irresponsive today, it will not be surprising to see some empty pews in our churches tomorrow.

The intention here is not to threatened but a cry to the possibilities of a dreadful reality.

Finally, a word of appreciation to those churches who are hands-on today and a special appeal and urge to those who are yet to and who can do more.

I pray that your pastoral care ministry always resounds bountifully more so in times of distress such as today.

Wangshi Lemtur, CBS, Kolkata

Pray for the Nagas

oday, we hear thousands of people suffer and dying by this COVID-19, in many countries. But thank God for His protection upon the people of Nagas. 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people humble themselves, pray and seek my face, turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land”.

Therefore, let us turn to God to save us from this deadly pandemic and confess our sins, such as love of money, bribe, adultery, lazy to read the word of God, instead of reading the word of God, spending more time in social media, not willing to bring the lost souls to god. Psalm 7:11-12, “God judged the righteous and God is angry with the wicked every day.”

If we turn to God, He will heal our land and take away His wrath.

Experiences: 1990-92: God spoke to many of His faithful servants to send punishment to the Nagas. There-

fore, prayed and fasted for several times and finally, in 1993, March 22nd-1st April, 26 of us toured the whole Nagaland. “We prayed God to allow us to do His mission instead of punishment.

At the end of our prayers, God answered through His servants, there were three cups of punishment for the Nagas but will send only one: cup of punishment.

There this was bloodshed all over Nagaland. Even one cup of punishment poured on us was too much to bear for us.

Finally, here is my appeal to all the believers to pray in your own convenient time on this Sunday, 24th of May, mentioning the above cited prayer points, not only from the COVID-19 but also for holistic healing. Again tonight at 7 p.m., let us all stand to our feet and rise up our hands and sing “I surrender all” and close this solemn prayer.

Rev. Dr. T. Alem Meren Ao, Former prayer secretary, NBCC

ANPSA Dimapur representation to CM & school education minister (From previous issue) already been giving a lot Grant to the private schools suggests that the session 5. Online classes dur- of concessions and scholar- so that they can in turn pay for this year’s academic ing the Lockdown period: ships to the underprivileged the salaries of the Teaching session be extended up to It may please be noted sections of students even at and Non-Teaching staff March 2020 and henceforth that in the present lock- the cost of huge financial Members or even stand April to March Session be down situation, when most losses being incurred by the guarantee to the bank and introduced in the State.

In light of the above of the private enterprises schools. Moreover, most work out modalities with private schools face the adbanks to provide easy loans few points that we have have totally shut down and ceased all activities, the ditional problem of many to the private schools at all elaborated, it is beyond doubt that private schools private schools are still parents not paying their times.

7. R e o p e n i n g o f and colleges have an integral actively involved in the wards’ fees throughout the welfare of the students by year with excuses of their Schools after the COVID- role in the overall social and economical well-being of conducting online classes inability to pay due to vari- 19 Lockdown: In the wake of the a state or nation and one including assignments and ous economic reasons. Here pre-recorded videos so that also the private schools are pandemic situation, the can very well imagine the the students do not miss at the receiving end and future of most of the stu- prospect of a society where their lessons and they are unfortunately there is little dents studying in the private there are no good schools not disadvantaged academi- or no option left for them schools are hanging on a and colleges. There would cally. Moreover the task without anyone to bail them thin balance of uncertainty be total chaos in our society as there is no concrete plan and crime would abound in of conducting the online out of this situation.

B. The teachers and of reopening of schools or the wake of a lack of moral classes is much more challenging and requires more other categories of staffs resuming of regular classes. education and there would working in the private Even if the schools are al- be economic crunch in the resources.

6. Waiving of Fees schools also need to be paid lowed to open, there will wake of a lack of professionduring the Lockdown pe- their due salaries on time still be certain restrictions als like doctors, engineers, as they also have families on the number of students bureaucrats, technocrats, riod: to be allowed per class etc. coming out of schools As regards the numer- to look after.

C. There are many per day for a considerable and colleges. In fact every ous appeals from various civic bodies that private private schools which run in period of time. The gov- strata of our society would schools should consider deficit and do not receive any ernment should therefore suffer in the absence of waiving or lowering the funds from either the central take this matter seriously schools and colleges. Therefees, even though the private or state governments despite and discuss with all the fore, it is the responsibility schools are aware of the their quality contribution and stakeholders including the of the government to give financial difficulties faced employment opportunities ANPSA on what modali- due consideration to our by the parents and guard- for the society. The private ties should be followed to prominence as an integral ians of the students, there schools are ever ready to take reopen the schools and part of the economy and is very little that the private up the humanitarian task of what norms and standards provide opportunities for the schools can do for them in considering the appeal for regarding social distancing private schools and colleges the form of lessening of the benefit of the economi- should be carried out for the to flourish. This can only fees or even waiving off cally affected parents and schools after the lockdown. happen when organizations the fees. The reasons are guardians, provided the state This will save all of us from like ANPSA are considered government is also ready to a lot of chaos and confu- as primary stakeholders in very simple: A. M a n y p r i v a t e take up the responsibility of sion once the schools start education and more auschools in Nagaland have providing enough Financial reopening. The ANPSA tonomy is given to all the Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this

private schools and colleges throughout Nagaland. In an age when developed nations around the globe like Singapore and Finland are giving top investment priority to educational sector in their annual budgetary allocation, the Nagaland Government should also introspect on the same as this step will, in turn, automatically lead to huge revenue for the State if the government takes a positive step in creating an educational hub in Nagaland.

We are hopeful that

an early and optimistic step would be taken by the State Government, led by the Hon’ble Chief Minister and School Education Minister for redressing the numerous grievances of the private schools which we have tried to bring to fore in the best way possible through this open representation.

Thanking you, (Concluded) Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema, President, All Nagaland Private Schools’ Association (ANPSA) Dimapur Unit

Reader’s Post

Sir,

Trouble in times of trouble

This is a humble request to the authorities of private schools and colleges in the state, to minimise or provide concessions in paying the fees.

As very rightly and wisely appealed by a very well known students representative body, “Dimapur Naga Students Union”, fee concession in times of this pandemic should be considered, not only on humanitarian grounds but also should be a moral obligation of the authorities.

Yes, the plights of teachers are to be acknowledged, but while doing so, should not pinch the already troubled parents. We should keep in mind that everyone is going through the same Pandemic, where, many parents are also not getting paid.

It is also a humble request to the concerned governmental department to look into this affair, so that every schools and colleges follows the same requirement.

Theja Sekhose, Dimapur newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Govt issue guidelines for domestic air travel

NEW DELHI, MAY 21 (PTI): About a third of operations will be allowed under strict norms when domestic flight services restart on Monday after a two-month hiatus and all the airlines will have to adhere to the upper and lower limits of fares prescribed by the government, the Civil Aviation Ministry said on Thursday.

In a set of detailed guidelines, the ministry advised people vulnerable to coronavirus like the elderly, pregnant women and passengers battling health issues to avoid air travel till the pandemic abates. People residing in containment zones will not be allowed to travel. All passengers will have to provide their medical details through the Aarogya Setu app or by filling up a self-declaration form. They will have to go for web check-in as physical check-in counters at airports will not operate.

The rules include no meals on board, mandatory temperature checks for all passengers and allowing only one check-in bag for each passenger. People who were tested positive for COVID-19 will not be

Hardeep Singh Puri allowed to travel. All the passengers will have to wear masks while entering the airports and thereafter.

Passengers will have to report to airports two hours before flights are scheduled to depart and they will have to strictly follow social distancing rules.

The government’s decision to allow domestic air travel comes days after the government relaxed norms allowing economic activities to resume in a bid to revive the economy that has been hit hard by the coronavirus lockdown. “All stakeholders such as airlines, airports have cooperated. So we took the decision to resume flights from May 25,” Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said addressing a press conference.

Puri said all the air

Rio inaugurates State’s first BSL-3 lab

(From p-1)

He congratulated H&FW department officials, officer-in-charge of State Referral BSL-3 and the lab team for their tireless efforts and working day and night to make it possible.

With the commissioning of the BSL-3 lab, Phom said the State was now ready to test COVID-19 samples and claimed that the lab at NHAK had the best facility in the entire region.

Earlier, in his introductory note, H&FW secretary Kesonyu Yhome, who also headed the committee for BSL-3 lab, explained that COVID-19 samples could not be tested at any normal laboratory since the virus was highly contagious and hence, BSL-3 laboratory was recommended. He said 126 such laboratories across India had so far received approval for testing COVID-19 samples.

Sensing the urgency to have a COVID-19 testing facility in Nagaland, Yhome said the State government had approved to set up BSL-3 and BSL-2 labs at Kohima and Dimapur respectively.

Accordingly, work for setting up the lab at Kohima started on April 16 and took about 25 days for its completion, although delayed by a few days due to supply chain issues during the lockdown and unfavourable weather conditions.

Yhome also informed that on the basis of validation of Documentation and Quality Check Run Tests, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on May 14 approved initiation of clinical specimens for COVID. After unveiling of the bio-safety sample collection booth donated by Nagaland Institute of Science & Technology, Social activist and Padma Shree Neidonuo Angami remarked that as the sample collection booth was portable, it could be taken to different locations for sample collection like in quarantine centres to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

H&FW principal director Dr Vizolie Z Suokhrie delivered the welcome address, while State chaplain Rev TW Yamyap Konyak pronounced the dedicatory prayer.

Host of legislators, senior State government officials, including medical staff, and others attended the inaugural function.

NSCN (R) appeals people to adhere to rules DIMAPUR: NSCN/GPRN (Reformation) has appealed to the government to continue to help the citizens and to provide assistance to the frontline workers as top priority, while also asking the public “to adhere to rules and regulations given by respective governments.”

NSCN/GPRN (R) through its MIP expressed gratitude to the frontline workers comprising of doctors, nurses, health workers, police and the press fraternity besides various groups/forums/churches and individuals for offering assistance.

NSCN (R) also acknowledged the efforts of the Nagaland government and stated that with limited resources it was all geared up to safeguard the citizens and also bring back all the stranded citizens. Describing Nagaland’s commercial hub Dimapur as “epicentre”, NSCN (R) said if any-

thing happens in Dimapur “all hell will break loose”.

However, it stated that with the efforts of responsible officers like secretary Kikheto Yepthomi, CP Rothitu Tetseo, DC Anoop Khinchi besides all other district DCs and in charges, all possible threat were “being monitored or at least mitigated.”

Further, NSCN (R) stressed that “every individual should forget about their political affiliations and politics of blame-game and finger-pointing”. It asserted that “people should forget about their social/tribal/ community attachments and religious backgrounds/ denominations and come together in solidarity and “speak in one language, one identity, one people and one survival.” Conveying good wishes to all the citizens, NSCN (R) urged them to take care and stay safe “till this threat was completely contained.”

travel routes have been divided into seven bands based on duration of flights ranging from 40 minutes to 210 minutes. The aim of the exercise is to prescribe upper and lower limits of fares and the caps on fares would be in place till August 24.

The minister said the first band will consist of flights that are of less than 40 minutes duration. Second, third, fourth and fifth bands of upper limit would be of flights with durations of 40-60 minutes, 60-90 minutes, 90-120 minutes and 120-150 minutes, he said. The sixth and seventh bands would consist of flights with durations between 150-180 minutes and 180-210 minutes, said Puri. Aviation Secretary P S Kharola said 40 per cent of seats in any flight would have to be sold at the midpoint of the lower and upper limits of air fares.

The minister said he can’t comment right now on when flight operations would be restored completely. Puri said only one-third flights will be permitted to operate from metro to nonmetro cities where weekly departures are more than 100.

national/STATE Rly reservation in phased manner: NFR DIMAPUR, MAY 21 (NPN): Indian Railways has decided to open reservation counters (PRS) for booking of reserved tickets in a phased manner from May 22. Tickets can also be booked by authorized agents/subagents and Common Service Centers (Suvidha Kendras), NFR chief public relations officer Subhanan Chanda informed.

However, Chanda said locations and numbers of counters to be opened and their timings will depend on feasibility and as per requirement and local conditions.

It may be noted that the Railways on Wednesday announced that a list of 100 pairs of trains will start operating from June 1.

In this regard, from June 1 following trains will run in NFR area-- 02377 / 02378 Sealdah – Alipurduar Padatik Express; 02407 / 02408 Amritsar–New Jalpaiguri Karmabhumi Express, 05484/05483 Delhi – Alipurduar Mahananda Express, 05955/05966 Delhi– Dibrugarh Brahmaputra Mail, 05645 / 05646 Guwahati – LTT Express and 02067 / 02068 Guwahati – Jorhat Town Jan Shatabdi Express.

5

NDPP slams NPF for ‘personalised attacks’ on CM DIMAPUR, MAY 21 (NPN): Major PDA coalition partner NDPP has slammed NPF for exploiting the prevailing situation caused by COVID-19 pandemic in launching “personalised attacks” on chief minister Neiphiu Rio. NDPP also said it was unfortunate that NPF had also dragged local media houses by accusing them of having “failed to cover and report allegations and misinterpretations of the meeting” adding such callous behaviour did not behove of a party supposed to be the oldest regional party and playing the role of a “responsible opposition party”.

NDPP admitted that as head of the State Rio had the responsibility of informing people of the activities of the government, including those pertaining to the pandemic. However it asserted that at times like this it was not possible to gather people and organisations often to share what the State was experiencing and going through.

Therefore, as responsible leaders, NDPP said the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues had embarked on official visits to districts not only to inform leaders of various civil and tribal organisations of the government’s plans and

programmes in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to share other issues faced by the government .

Rather it said the PDA government always had utmost respect for tribal hohos and civil societies and was taking the opportunity to brief the civil society organisations (CSOs) on the overall scenario in a transparent and inclusive manner, the statement claimed.

NDPP asked NPF whether it had forgotten how a government was run in a span of just two years? It said such “belligerent, malicious and unconfounded” statements of NPF was meant to mislead and confuse the people at a time when the pandemic had taken mankind by surprise. NDPP said these were most unfair and irresponsible on the part of the opposition party.

Referring to charges against the PDA government and Rio over the cess imposed on petroleum products, NDPP claimed that Nagaland became the first State in India to come up with the novel idea, which other States later replicated. Therefore, it said the PDA leadership should be commended, instead.

NDPP said since Nagaland was a revenue deficit State and solely depen-

dent on Government of India for funds, it was only through such initiatives that the government could augment its resources.

It said one of the reasons why the cess has been christened “Covid Cess” was to ensure transparency and revenues realised from this cess would be used solely for COVID and health-related expenditure.

Due to financial constraints and taking into consideration current economic condition of the country, NDPP said it should be understood that Nagaland’s lack of revenue and dependent status made it imperative to undertake measures aimed at making the State self-sufficient and a locally sustainable economy.

The party also stressed on moving out of salary economy and focusing on agriculture and allied sectors. NDPP welcomed the State government’s decision of instituting a Strategic Committee for Economic Affairs to chalk new measures, strategies and game-plans for economic activities, which would also engage a pool of economic experts from various sectors to guide and advise the government on new approaches.

It said the government was also undertaking sev-

eral austerity measures aimed at saving the State exchequer from wasteful expenditure.

NDPP also expressed concern at certain individuals taking to social media to spread hatred, and emphasised that while it respected freedom of speech, expression and opinion, it was also important to keep in mind that these freedoms came with responsibilities.

NDPP also asserted that it was not a time to politicise the pandemic or point fingers but put “our heads” together and work out ways and means to combat the pandemic and ensure safety of stranded Naga brethren as well as the entire citizens.

The party said the state has limited facilities, but making best of the little it had and that its officers and frontlines workers were tirelessly performing their duties. Therefore, NDPP said their efforts should not be belittled by casting aspersions on their endeavours.

As Nagas return home from other parts of the country, NDPP called for upholding each and every one of them in prayers during their travel and stay at the designated quarantine centres, besides appealing to continue helping medical and frontline workers.

NPCC warns of looming ‘economic disaster’ Officials inspects Dimapur railway station

DIMAPUR, MAY 21 (NPN): Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has urged the state government to come out with a white paper on the plan of growth of the economy, saying the state would land into economic disaster soon if it did not act quickly.

In a press release, NPCC president K Therie said that the “days are going to be difficult” with huge deficit, huge plan and non-plan salary and debt servicing added with lockdown revenue deficit.

Claiming that revenue of the centre was down by 95%, Therie said the central share of taxes and grants would also shrink and could continue so for several years to come. He has also urged the state government to make public its plan to make loans easier for MSMEs and the agriculture sector. State Congress chief stated that bringing stranded children home was not enough, saying they needed to be given jobs also.

He urged the government to seriously think of creating jobs to accommodate the unemployed youth and for the stranded returnees.

Therie said the state should take advantage of the returnees’ experience and upgrade

the economy of the state and also help them live with their potentials.

He said the government should realize that the situation was “a lesson to be selfcontent and have some self-respect.”

“While we are all looking at the stranded children, the hospitality services sector particularly small restaurants, parlours, tourist operators, taxi and auto drivers, etc. cannot be ignored anymore,” Therie said.

He said that hospitality services have suffered the most in the economy, next to migrant workers. Thousands have lost business and tens of thousands have lost jobs in Nagaland state alone, he said and urged the government to step in to salvage them. “We need to become self-content and create employment opportunities for all,” Therie said.

Meanwhile, NPCC chief suggested that the government, as temporary considerations for restaurant owners, could give contracts for packed food for quarantine inmates. Secondly, he said that those that cannot be given contract works for supply of food needed to be given rations whether they have ration card or not.

Govt extends provisions of ex-gratia payment...

(From p-1) The detailed guidelines in this regard would be issued by planning department. Govt warns: Kronu warned of strict penal action against individuals/organizations and those obstructing entry of persons returning to Nagaland from outside into their wards/colonies even after completion of the quarantine period, including home quarantine. He also said that in certain cases, undue obstructions were being created in the setting up of quarantine centres by the government in wards/colonies, he added. He said DCs had been directed to sensitise the individuals, organizations, colony authorities concerned on such unwarranted actions, which infringed on individual rights and violated government orders.

MEZHÜR HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL MIDLAND; KOHIMA

ADMISSION NOTICE Registration Form for admission to Class- 11 (Arts & Science) can be collected from the school office on any working day. Duly filled Registration Form should be submitted to the school office along with photocopy of Marksheet and Admit Card within 5 (Five) days of declaration of HSLC result - 2020. Direct admission will be offered to those fulfilling the school admission criteria.

Principal

Government officials inspecting the Railway station Dimapur on Thursday. (DIPR)

D I M A P U R , M AY 2 1 (NPN): With around 1400 stranded persons expected to arrive on a special train from Chennai on May 22, state government officials Thursday inspected the railways station to ensure smooth coordination and movement of the returnees.

According to reports, the district-wise returnees include-- Dimapur-569, Kohima-72, Wokha-35, Mokokchung-22, Zunheboto-14, Longleng- 16, Phek-39, Tuensang-164, Kiphire-40, Mon-147 and

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99 stranded citizens arrive on May 21

Altogether 99 stranded citizens arrived Dimapur on May 21 from various places.

According to DIPR, 57 persons arrive from New Delhi and Dibrugarh by train, 15 from Sikkim and 16 from Guwahati by bus and 11 from Guwahati by private vehicles.

So far 1735 stranded citizens have arrived Nagaland till date.

AUCTION NOTICE

Date: 21.05.2020

It is hereby notified for public information that the Spot Auction for Sale of 13 Nos. of Mithun from the Mithun Farm, Medziphema on “As is where is Basis” at ICAR-NRCM, Medziphema, Nagaland. The details along with the terms & conditions can be downloaded from the Institute’s website http://nrcmithun.icar.gov.in. The schedule of Spot Auction will be done on 11.06.2020 at 11:30 AM. Sd/Assistant Administrative Officer ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland DC-432

M.G.M. HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL Midland, Dimapur – 797112, Nagaland E-mail: mgmdimapur@gmail.com Website: mgmhrsecschool.webs.com Phone No: 03862-231892

K-919

MOUNT MARY COLLEGE & HR. SEC. SCHOOL

Peren-359. During the inspection, officials including state APC, who is also incharge of Dimapur district for COVID-19 activities Y. Kikheto Sema, DC Dimapur Anoop Khinchi, Commissioner Police Rothihu Tetseo, CMO Dimapur Dr. Tiasunep, DPRO Dimapur Lolano Patton, Food committee convenor, Avonuo and others also discussed in detail about transportation to other districts. DIPR report stated that the lunch for all the returnees will be sponsored by deputy chief

Under the Aegis of St. Thomas Mission Society, Dimapur & MGOS Church, Dimapur.

ADMISSION NOTICE

SALIENT FEATURES

Admission forms and Prospectus for Class XI (Arts, Science & Commerce) are available from School office from 9 am to 12 noon. Or can be downloaded from the School’s official website. Duly filled registration form should be submitted to the school office along with the photocopy of Marksheet and Admit Card within 5 (Five) days of declaration of HSLC Result-2020.

1. Modern Computer & Science Lab. 2. Well equipped smart Class.

3. Bishop Mar Theodosius Memorial (MTM) scholarship for students scoring 85% and above in the School Annual Examination.

4. Late K.V. Ponnan Meritorious Scholarship for term end examination toppers in School.

5. Hostel Facility for Girls.

6. D a i l y M o r n i n g a n d e v e n i n g prayers.

DC-431

Principal

6

international

Global coronavirus cases surpass 5 mn first million cases. Since then, about 1 million new cases are reported every two weeks, according to a Reuters tally.

At more than 5 million cases, the virus has infected more people in under six months than the annual total of severe flu cases, which the World Health Organisation estimates is around 3 million to 5 million globally.

The pandemic has claimed over 328,000 lives, though the true number is thought to be higher as test-

New York City Fire Department EMT’s arrive with a patient at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in New York City, US on May 20.

Te h r a n , M ay 2 1 (Agencies): Iran will suppor t any nation or group that fights Israel, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said ahead of this week’s annual observance of Quds (Jerusalem) Day to express support for Palestinians.

“We will support and assist any nation or any group anywhere who opposes and fights the Zionist regime, and we do not hesitate to say this,” Khamenei said in a post on his official Twitter account.

Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria targeting suspected arms and troop movements

by Iran and the Lebanese

Hezbollah guerrillas that Tehran sponsors.

Separately, Khamenei said that Iran’s enmity toward Israel was not the same as hostility toward Jewish people. “The elimination of the government of Israel does not mean the elimination of Jews. We don’t have an issue with Jewish people,” Khamenei said in his Twitter account.

“Elimination of Israel’ means the Muslim, Christian and Jewish people of #Palestine choose their own government themselves and push out foreigners and thugs like [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu,” the post added.

Crossword

Su doku

KAKURO

Washington, May 21 (PTI): The United States asked China to take steps to ease the burden its “predatory and unfair” lending is causing to Pakistan during the coronavirus crisis.

Alice G Wells, US State Department’s top official for Central and South Asia, told reporters during a conference call that be it the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) or any other assistance, the US supports investment that meets international standards, upholds environmental and labour requirements and benefits the people of the region.

“I’ve enumerated the United States government’s concerns over the CPEC, lack of transparency involved in the projects and unfair rates of profit that are guaranteed to Chinese organisations,” she said in response to a question on the corridor.

“I think at a time of crisis like COVID, when the world is reeling from the economic consequences of having shut parts of the economy, it is really incumbent on China to take steps

Alice G Wells to alleviate the burden this predatory, unsustainable and unfair lending is going to cause to Pakistan,” she said.

Wells said the United States hopes that China will either waive debt or renegotiate the loans to create a fair and transparent deal for Pakistani people.

The United States, she said, is joining other voices in the region and globally calling on China to offer transparent relief from the belt and road predatory loans that the countries are now suffering from.

Well said the US will use its partnership with international financial institutions like the World Bank and IMF for reconstruction and development.

15 killed as cyclone Amphan batters Bangladesh Dhaka, May 21 (Agencies): Cyclone ‘Amphan’ has wreaked havoc in Bangladesh, killing at least 15 people, devastating coastal villages, inundating many areas and damaging scores of houses on Thursday.

Cyclone ‘Amphan’, the strongest to hit the region in nearly two decades, made a landfall on Wednesday evening.

Ayesha Akhtar, spokeswoman of the health ministry’s control room said officials in the coastlines so far could confirm identities of six of the deceased while a process was underway to assess the medical requirements and other details in the affected area.

Initial reports from the coastlines suggested most of

the deaths were caused by accidents like trees falling on people and wall collapse.

A Red Crescent volunteer drowned during an evacuation bid.

The body of Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) leader Shah Alam was recovered nine hours after he went missing following the capsizing of a boat in a canal in Kalapara upazila, Kalapara Upazila Nirbahi Officer Abu Hasnat said.

A boat carrying CPP volunteers, including Alam, sank in the Hafez Pedar canal on Wednesday morning after being hit by the storm, the report said.

Many low-lying areas were inundated, embankments collapsed, trees uprooted and houses damaged

by the cyclone in the coastal districts of Bangladesh, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

The cyclone is likely to move further in a northnor theasterly direction and weaken gradually, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department was quoted as saying by the report.

At least seven persons were killed in the Barguna, Satkhira, Pirojpur, Bhola and Patuakhali districts, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

In Barguna, a 60-yearold man died by drowning, in Satkhira, a 40-year-old woman died after being hit by a falling tree branch, in Pirojpur a 60-year-old man died after a wall collapsed on him, authorities were quoted as saying by the report.

No. 9570 Yesterday’s solution No. 9569

No. 4189 Yesterday’s solution No. 4188

No. 3214 Yesterday’s solution No. 3213

Across 4. Royal residence (6) 7. Slaughterhouse (8) 8. Slanting type (6) 10. Acute anxiety (5) 13. Virtuous (4) 14. Stinging insect (4) 15. Atmosphere (4) 16. Hardly any (3) 17. Monstrous person (4) 19. Send by post (4) 21. Hurry up (4,5) 23. Grime (4) 24. Of sound mind (4) 26. Unopened flower (3) 27. Take notice of (4) 29. Primates (4) 32. Pieces (4) 33. Customary (5) 34. Fasten or join (6) 35. Borrowing charge (8) 36. Foreign language (6) Down 1. Parrot type (5) 2. Suspends (5) 3. Let it stand (4) 4. Previous, preceding (5) 5. Heavy metal (4) 6. Hand tool (6) 9. U n a n i m o u s l y (2,1,3) 11. Horse (3) 12. Animal’s trail (5) 13. Estimates (7) 15. Noah’s vessel (3) 16. Seizure (3) 18. Architectural style (6) 20. Regions (5) 21. Cover (3) 22. Senseless, foolish (3) 23. Cleaning cloth (6) 25. Vegetable (3) 28. Moral principle (5) 30. Pulped fruit or veg (5) 31. Censure, informally (5) 32. Cutting remark (4)

A woman stands amidst the debris of her house damaged by cyclone Amphan in Satkhira, Bangladesh on Thursday.

In Bhola, two per- akhali, a six-year-old boy sons were killed during the died after being hit by a stormy weather caused by falling tree branch. the cyclonic storm. In PatuIn Jessore district, a

45-year-old woman and her 13-year-old daughter died after a tree fell on their house.

Hydroxychloroquine trial begins in UK L o n d o n , M ay 2 1 (IANS): A trial to see whether two anti-malarial drugs - chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine - could prevent the novel coronavirus has begun in the UK’s Brighton and Oxford.

The first UK participants in the global trial are being enrolled on Thursday at the Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals and the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, reports the BBC. They will be given either hydroxychloroquine or a placebo for three months.

These are the first of a planned 25 UK sites, with results expected by the end of the year. The trial is open to anyone delivering direct care to coronavirus patients in the UK. It will test whether the drugs can prevent healthcare workers exposed to the virus from contracting it.

One of the study’s leaders, Professor Nicholas White at the University of Oxford said: “We really do not know if chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine are beneficial or harmful against COVID-19.”

But, he said, a ran-

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Sd/- Deponent MKC-127

domised controlled trial such as this one, where neither the participant nor the researchers know who has been given the drug or a placebo, was the best way to find out. “A widely available, safe and effective vaccine may be a long way off,” the BBC quoted

Professor Martin Llewelyn from Brighton and Sussex Medical School, who is also leading the study.

“If drugs as well-tolerated as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine could reduce the chances of catching COVID-19, this would be incredibly valuable.”

OFFICE OF THE

KHAR STUDENTS' UNION DIMAPUR Dimapur - 797112 : Nagaland

FELICITATION

With immense pride and honour we, the KHAR STUDENTS' UNION DIMAPUR would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to Er. Tiameren on being elevated to the post of Addl. Chief Engineer, NPWD, Nagaland, Kohima.

We pray that our Almighty God continue to bless all your future endeavours.

IMTIKOKBA JAMIR PRESIDENT

BENDANGTEMSU AIER GENERAL SECRETARY

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‘Iran will support any nation that fights Israel’

Germany, France and the United Kingdom to become the third-largest outbreak in the world, behind the United States and Russia.

Cases in Brazil are now rising at a daily pace second only to the United States.

The first 41 cases of coronavirus were confirmed in Wuhan, China, on January 10 and it took the world until April 1 to reach its

Tokyo, May 21 (IANS): The Japanese government on Thursday lifted a state of emergency in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures as the number of COVID-19 infections has remained low.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters that the emergency measure may end in Tokyo and its three prefectural neighbours of Chiba, Saitama, and Kanagawa as well as the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido as early as May 25 after fresh review.

Abe first declared a month-long state of emergency for Tokyo and six other prefectures on April 7, but this was expanded to cover the entire nation on April 16. The state of emergency was originally scheduled to end on May 6, and the government extended it through May 31.

Last week, the Japanese government decided to lift the state of emergency ahead of the planned deadline for 39 of the country’s 47 prefectures as the coronavirus has been less prevalent in those areas.

Ease burden of ‘predatory’ lending on Pak: US to China

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We, the house tenants of Late Marsosang Marketing Complex, Mokokchung, Nagaland with more than 31 commercial shops and 14 non-commercial residents, would like to thank the grand children of Late Marsosang for exempting us from paying our house rent for March and April 2020 on behalf of COVID19 lockdown. May the Almighty God bless your kind family for the kindness that you have shown towards us during such a time of hardships.

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Tenants of Lt. Marsosang Complex, Mokokchung

GRATITUDE

The All Nagaland Government Drivers Association (ANGDA) (CC) on behalf of all the Govt Drivers would like to give a word of thanks and appreciation to our honourable Chief Secretary Shri Temjen Toy for his immediate response in approving our request to provide Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) to all the drivers who are in frontline duty for transportation of stranded person during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We also thank the District administration and all the other frontline workers for giving their best efforts and sacrifices to ensure safety and security of the citizens because of which Nagaland is still Covid-19 Free. May Almighty God bless and protect you all.

NEIVISIETUO RINO NEIKETOU DZEYIE President ANGDA Gen. Sey. ANGDA

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large-scale outbreaks followed in Europe and the United States.

Latin America accounted for around a third of the 91,000 cases reported earlier this week. Europe and the United States each accounted for just over 20 per cent.

A large number of those new cases came from Brazil, which recently surpassed

The 10 nations with the highest number of infections: 1. United States has reported 1,593,297 cases and 94,948 deaths 2. Russia has confirmed 317,554 cases and 3,099 deaths 3. Brazil has recorded 293,357 cases and 18,894 deaths 4. Spain has confirmed 279,524 cases and 27,888 deaths 5. United Kingdom has reported 248,293 cases and 35,704 deaths 6. Italy has reported 227,364 cases and 32,330 deaths 7. France has confirmed 181,700 cases and 28,135 deaths 8. Germany has reported 178,545 cases and 8,270 deaths 9. Turkey has recorded 152,587 cases and 4,222 deaths 10. Iran has recorded 129,341 cases and 7,249 deaths

Japan lifts state of emergency for 3 prefectures

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NEW YORK, May 21 (Agencies): Global coronavirus cases surpassed 5 million on Wednesday, with Latin America overtaking the United States and Europe in the past week to report the largest portion of new daily cases globally.

It represents a new phase in the virus’ spread, which initially peaked in China in February, before

ing is still limited and many countries do not include fatalities outside of hospitals. Over half of the total fatalities have been recorded in Europe.

Despite the continued increase in cases, many countries are opening schools and workplaces following weeks of lockdown that have stemmed the spread.

Financial markets have also been boosted slightly by promising early results from the first US vaccine trial in humans.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

northeast

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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Three-pronged strategy to fight India-Bangladesh to boost waterways trade COVID-19 pandemic : Meghalaya CM Dhaka/Agartala, May 21 (IANS): To boost trade, economic activity and connectivity, India and Bangladesh have added five more “ports of call” on either side and increased the protocol (water) routes from 8 to 10.

“These additions to the protocol will facilitate bilateral trade with improved reliability and cost effectiveness for the business community and the people of both the countries,” an official release said.

The release issued after signing of the Second Addendum to the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in Dhaka on Wednesday, said the extension of protocol routes, inclusion of new routes and declaration of new “ports of call” would facilitate trade.

The Second Addendum was signed by Indian High Commissioner in Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das and Bangladesh Shipping Ministry Secretary Mohammed Mezbah Uddin Chowdhury.

There are six “ports of call” each in India and Bangladesh. The new five “ports of call” on the Indian side are Dhulian, Maia, Kolaghat, Sonamura and Jogigopha and on the Bangladesh side Rajshahi, Sul-

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das and Bangladesh’s Shipping Secretary Mezbah Uddin Chowdhury on Wednesday signed the second Addendum. Photo-UNB

tanganj, Chilmari, Daudkandi and Bahadurabad.

Two more extended ‘ports of call” -- Tribeli (Bandel) and Badarpur in India and Ghorasal and Muktarpur in Bangladesh -- have been added.

According to the release, connectivity provided by the existing and the new protocol routes is all the more pertinent in the Covid-19 scenario. They will provide economical, faster, safer and greener mode of transport for trade and business.

The new agreement will help improve movement of cargo vessels in an organised manner on the protocol routes. The Indian transit cargo is mainly coal,

fly-ash, POL and heavy machineries for power projects in the northeast. The other likely cargo is fertilizers, cement, grain, farm products and containers.

The export cargo from India to Bangladesh is mainly fly-ash (around 30 lakh tonnes per annum).

Around 638 inland vessels (including 600 Bangladeshi flag vessels) do 4,000 loaded voyages annually.

Both the countries have also agreed to introduce trade between Chilmari (Bangladesh) and Dhubri (Assam, India) through the use of shallow draft mechanised vessels.

It will allow export of stone chips and other Bhutanese and northeast cargo

and easy access for traders to the hinterland of Bangladesh, enhancing the local economy in Bangladesh and the lower Assam region.

Inclusion of Jogigopha (India) and Bahadurabad (Bangladesh) as new “port of call” will provide connectivity to Meghalaya, Assam and Bhutan. Jogigopha (in western Assam) also becomes important as a multi-modal logistics park is on cards there.

The new “ports of call” will enable loading and unloading of cargo transported on the IndiaBangladesh Protocol Route and stimulate economic development of new locations and their hinterland.

Inclusion of Sonamu-

ra (Tripura)-Daudkhandi (Bangladesh) stretch of the Gumti river (93 km) as IBP route number 9 and 10 in the protocol will improve connectivity of Tripura and adjoining northeastern states with India and Bangladesh’s economic centres and will help the hinterland of both the countries.

Before signing of the Second Addendum, Indian and Bangladesh officials had meetings in October 2018 in New Delhi and in December 2019 in Dhaka and finalised extension of protocol routes, inclusion of new routes and declaration of new “ports of call”.

According to the release, this protocol, first signed in 1972 soon after independence of Bangladesh, is a reflection of shared history, trusted friendship and mutually beneficial partnership.

It was last renewed in 2015 for five years with a provision of automatic renewal for the next five years, giving long-term assurance to stakeholders.

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh Premier Sheikh Hasina for the signing of Second Addendum to improve connectivity and trade between the two neighbours.

Correspondent

Shillong, May 21: The Meghalaya government has put in place a three-pronged strategy to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic with emphasis on strengthening health infrastructure and boosting the sagging economy, CM Conrad Sangma said on Thursday.

“We are prioritising the improvement of health infrastructure, increasing the use of technology and building the capacity of communities to deal with the situation,” he said in reply to a zero-hour notice tabled by Opposition Congress legislator PT Sawkmie on the second day of the three-day re-assembled budget session of the state assembly today.

Underscoring that strengthening of health infrastructure is the core first priority of our strategy, Sangma said a number of investments were made in the health sector over the last two months.

“Post the outbreak of the global pandemic, an amount of Rs 57.98 crore has been sanctioned by the State government to the Health and Family Welfare Department. Of this, Rs 45.85 crore is from State’s resources and Rs 12.13

crore is Central resources.

This investment has helped improve the health infrastructure significantly,” he informed.

Stating that the COVID19 pandemic has caused unprecedented economic and social disruption, the CM said the central government and the State government have taken a number of steps towards containing the spread of COVID-19 since mid-March.

“The lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19 has adversely affected the livelihood, food security and income of the various sections of the society including construction workers, both registered and unregistered, farmers, entrepreneurs, citizens of the State stranded outside the State and the rural and urban poor,” he pointed out.

“In addition to implementing various relief measures of the Government of India under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, the State Government, through its own resources, has taken up several relief measures. An amount of Rs 3,000 was credited to the bank accounts of 24,516 numbers of registered building and construction workers. Further, an amount of Rs 2,100 is being cred-

ited to the bank accounts of 1,81,491 unregistered workers under the Chief Minister’s Relief Against Wage Loss Scheme and the Government is spending Rs 38.11 Crore on this measure,” he said.

“To provide relief to stranded citizens, an amount of Rs 3,000 has been credited to the bank accounts of 9,224 individuals costing Rs 2.77 crore.

Additionally provision kits providing 2-weeks rations and other essentials to individuals and households under quarantine have been supplied to about 10,000 households in the State costing approximately Rs 2 crore. An amount of Rs. 26.38 crore has been provided to the Food and Civil Supplies Department for procurement and supply of 58,639 quintals of food grains under the open market sale scheme,” he spelt out.

“Therefore, a total of Rs. 69.25 Crore is being spent from the State resources under various relief measures related to COVID-19. Combined with the Rs 45.85 crore spent on health expenditure, the total expenditure made by the State due to COVID-19 comes to Rs 115.10 Crore,” Sangma said.

3 fresh COVID-19 cases in Assam Manipur to end first phase of evacuation on May 25 day, including 14 from the Sarusajai Quarantine Facility in Guwahati who were admitted to the Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital here on Wednesday night.

The Minister said that he along with his Junior Minister Pijush Hazarika were present at the hospital to ensure their “smooth and safe admission as well as proper briefing”.

He also requested the families of the patients to cooperate with authorities.

Sarma also said that he has directed the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police to ensure that people adhere to quarantine norms, including those in self isolation.

“In view of the rapidly rising cases, have advised them for stepping up measures on containment and quarantine”, Sarma said Assam has recorded 98 positive cases since Monday with the highest of 42 cases, including a two-month old child, on Tuesday In view of the rapidly rising number of COVID19 cases, the state government has decided to keep Sonapur Civil Hospital and Kalapahar Hospital as a stand-by to accommodate more patients, he said. The state has so far tested 47,084 samples and out of these 188 are positive, 42,729 are negative and the remaining results are awaited.

Drug peddler arrested in Bokajan Bokajan, May 21: In a major development, the Khatkhati Police have seized a huge consignment of the highly sedative Spaxmo Proxybon (SP) capsules from the Dudu Colony area adjacent to Assam-Nagaland border in East Karbi Anglong.

Based on a specific information, the Khatkhati police raided the Dudu colony area and recovered 29,000 Spaxmo Proxybon capsules from the posses-

sion of Arjun Debbarma, a resident of Tripura. His two other accomplices managed to escape under cover of darkness.

“As per the preliminary investigations, the contraband was meant to be smuggled into Nagaland where it is sold at Rs10 per capsule. Around 40 packets containing 720 loose capsules each have been seized. The sale of these drugs is regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetic

Act and is place under the restricted item.” Said a police officer.

Khatkhati police who are at the fore front of the Covid-19 pandemic is also maintaining law and order to ensure no smuggling or drug trafficking take place in this part of the interstate Assam-Nagaland border. A couple of days ago, Khatkhati police seized a truck trying to smuggle 210 kgs consignment of suspected Ganja.

Correspondent

IMPHAL, May 21: In the backdrop of rising COVID19 cases among returnees, Manipur government has decided to suspend evacuation of stranded people for some days after the first phase.

The first phase of evacuation of stranded state people at various places of the country started on May 10 after a special train with 1140 passengers which left Chennai arrived at Manipur’s only railway station at Jiribam on May 13 last.

Till Wednesday, the state government has evacuated as many as 5,844 stranded people and another 6010 stranded people is expected to arrive in the next few days, during the first phase due to end by May 25.

The 6010 stranded include 430 stranded people (including six children) who arrived on Thursday on a special train from Hyderabad.

The train arrived at Jiribam railway station around 10 am and returnees have headed for their respective districts on 15 buses arranged by the state transport department.

An emergency cabinet meeting convened by chief minister N Biren Singh on

Arrival of stranded people from Hydrabad on a speical train at Jiribam of Manipur on Thursday.

Wednesday reviewed the status of incoming stranded people, the reported positive cases and status of the quarantine centres.

Official reports said that two more individuals who recently returned to the state were tested positive on Thursday. With the two, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rose to 27 including two recoveries.

The state had recorded 16 positive cases in a single day after five returnees whose test results received late Wednesday showed positive for the virus.

The 27 positive cases were detected during testing for the virus of a total of 3,087 individuals so far, till Wednesday.

Coal mining in Dehing Patkai: Sonowal orders survey Guwahati, May 21 (PTI): Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Wednesday ordered Environment and Forests Minister Parimal Suklabaidya to visit Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary to conduct a field survey in the backdrop of a huge outrage against coal mining inside the forest.

Sonowal said the government is committed to protect the environment and believes in sustained development with ecology, an official statement said.

In view of the public opposition being reported in the media to the purported attempt of coal mining in Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonowal directed Suklabaidya to visit the sanctuary for taking stock of the situation on the ground. He also said the environment and forests minister will conduct a field study of the situation and apprise the government, the statement said.

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Dehing Patkai forest.

The chief minister said his government is committed to protect the environment and biodiversity of the state and will not compromise with its stand in the name development initiatives.

“The government always underscored the need to sustain development in sync with its ecology,” it

added.

Opposition Congress, All Assam Students’ Union, Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti, environmentalists, activists, teachers and students are protesting on social media with hashtag “Save Amazon Of East from Coal Mafias” and “I am Dehing Patkai” and

warned of strong protests if coal mining is allowed.

An online petition at www.change.org has already attracted nearly 60,000 signatures against coal mining inside Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve.

Though it was mining since 2003, the Coal India Ltd sought clearance in

2012 only, but it was rejected then. It applied again in 2019 for clearance of 98.59 hectares, out of which CIL was carrying out mining activities in 73 hectares.

The Centre gave the Stage-I clearance to the PSU major for 57.20 hectares in December 2019 with 28 conditions, including fines and action against responsible officers violating the Forest Conservation Act. Accordingly, the Assam Forest Department last month slapped a penalty of Rs 43.25 crore on CIL for carrying out illegal mining activity inside the forest for 16 years since 2003.

In its meeting in April 2020, the Standing Committee of the National Board of Wild Life under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recommended the CIL’s proposal for legalising the mining for approval provided it fulfils the 28 conditions.

The cabinet has decided to bring back stranded people in phases and suspension of the evacuation of the stranded people till completion of testing for COVID19 of the returneesat the quarantine centres.

The first phase of evacuation will continued till May 25 and government will plan second phase after completion of mandatory testing of all returnees, an official source said today.

To control the spread of COVID-19, the cabinet further decided to segregate incoming people from the existing inmates in quarantine centres and not to mix them up , the source said.

The daily incoming people will be kept in sepa-

rate locations till the testing of the people currently lodging at the quarantine centres is completed.

The cabinet also decided to treat all community quarantine centres as pooled centres of the district concerned for more effective control while approving sanction of Rs 10 lakh for each assembly constituency form MLA’s local area development (MLALAD) funds for maintenance of the community quarantine centres, the source added.

Meanwhile, following Wednesday’s cabinet decision, state health department has intensified sample collection in 17 centres after testing capacity has been increased from the earlier 200

samples to 900 daily.

The department is targeting to increase the capacity to 1500 per day.

As per the protocol, all people entering Manipur has to be screened at Mao Gate (bordering Nagaland) and Jiribam (bordering Assam) as well as in the railway station at Jiribam.

All passengers coming by train were also screened before boarding. People with suspected symptoms were not allowed to board the train. After arrival, if anyone is found having symptoms, the person will be shifted directly to a hospital.

All others will go to quarantine centre compulsory where they will be tested by RT-PCR (realtime reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) test, which is a more accurate test.

Those tested positive will be sent to hospital and negative cases to home quarantine for a period of 14 days. In Manipur, all the cases so far were confined to the quarantine centres and there was no case detected from general public.

The state government is following strict procedure and more than the prescribed norms to ensure safety of the people, the source said.

50th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY DR K. IZHEHO ZHIMOMI & MRS TONILI YEPTHOMI

22 – 05 – 1970

22 – 05 – 2020

On this special day, we thank God as we congratulate the wonderful iconic Couple on their Golden Anniversary. You have shown us what long lasting and successful marriage is. You taught us what a committed love is. You have been extraordinary role models for us.

We are so fortunate and thank God for letting these legends to be part of our family. May your legacies live in us forever. Wishing you everlasting love and healthy life ahead.

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Guwahati, May 21 (PTI): Three new COVID19 cases have been detected in Assam, taking the state’s virus tally to 188 on Thursday, Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

The cases were reported at the Barpeta Medical College on Wednesday night.

“Three new #COVID19 positive cases confirmed at Barpeta Medical College, where the tests were done”, the Minister tweeted.

Out of the total 188 cases, 133 are active hospital cases. While four people died, three migrated out of the state and 48 recovered.

As many as 28 patients tested positive on Wednes-

With lots of love – children, in-laws, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

K Y M C

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sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Giroud, Caballero pen 1-year Games to be cancelled if not held in 2021: Bach contract extension with Chelsea

L o n d o n, M ay 2 1 (Agencies): International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach said he accepts that the coronavirus-hit Tokyo Games will have to be cancelled if they cannot be held in 2021.

“You cannot forever employ 3,000 or 5,000 people in an organizing committee,” Bach said in an interview with BBC Sport.

“You cannot every year change the entire sports schedule worldwide of all the major federations.

You cannot have the athletes being in uncertainty,” he said.

Bach said Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had made it clear to him there is no Plan B if the games are delayed beyond next summer.

On March 24, Abe announced the decision to delay the start of the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, originally set to begin this summer, until 2021.Under the new

stadium, all the fans from all over the world are together,” he said.

“But when it then would come to the decision…I would ask you to give me some more time for consultation with the athletes, with the World Health Organization, with the Japanese partners.”

Thomas Bach

timetable, the Olympics will start on July 23, 2021 and run until Aug. 8. The Paralympics will run from August 24 until September 5, 2021.

The Olympics were last canceled in 1944 because of World War II, but they have never before been moved or delayed in their 124-year modern history.

Speaking in the Japanese parliament last month, Abe said the games cannot be held in a “complete form” if the pandemic is not contained. He stressed the importance of develop-

India may tour SA in August New Delhi, May 21 (PTI): India and South Africa could play three T20 Internationals at the end of August as part of a prior “agreement”, provided the situation arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic improves substantially for governments on both sides to give a go-ahead.

The fixtures are currently earmarked for late August but CSA’s acting chief executive Jacques Faul, encouraged by the BCCI’s “willingness”, said both parties are not averse to having the series at a later

date. “India wants to honour its agreement. If it’s postponed, maybe a bit later,” said Faul. “We’ve had a very good discussion with them (BCCI),” the CSA executive added.

A BCCI official on condition of anonymity said that the possibility is “there” provided they get an all clearance from the government of India. “First, we have to get the players for a conditioning camp in a green zone. Obviously, if things are on track, we would play in South Africa,” the official told PTI.

ing vaccines and drugs to combat the coronavirus before the games begin next year.

The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics are due to take place in China just six months after the Tokyo Games.

Asked whether the Olympics could be staged behind closed doors, Bach told BBC, “This is not what we want.”

“Because the Olympic spirit is about also uniting the fans and this is what makes the games so unique that they’re in an Olympic

Tokyo 2020 CEO denounces cancellation claim

To k yo 2 0 2 0 C E O Toshiro Muto on Thursday denounced claims that the International Olympic Council (IOC) will have the Olympic Games cancelled if it is not held in 2021.

In an interview with the BBC earlier, IOC President Thomas Bach said that the Games might be cancelled if the coronavirus cannot be controlled next year.

That actually echoed the view of Tokyo 2020 President Yoshiro Mori, who told Japan Nikkan Sports Daily last month

when he was asked the same question. “In that case, it’s cancelled,” Mori said.

But Muto told reporters in an online news conference that there is no “common understanding” between the IOC and Tokyo 2020 about cancelling the Games beyond 2021, reports Xinhua news agency.

“Mr. Mori was trying to say is that we should have the mentality to prepare the Games so that it can take place next year,” Muto said.

“I don’t think they have a common understanding about cancelling the Games.”

Asked if the Games could be held behind closed doors, Muto said, “We have more than one year until the Games, it is too early to have such discussion.”

“We need to carry out measures to fight COVID19,” he said. “However, we don’t believe it is the time to answer specific questions related to countermeasures.”

Olivier Giroud

L o n d o n, M ay 2 1 (Agencies): Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud and goalkeeper Willy Caballero extended their contracts till the end of the 2020/21 season, the Premier League side announced.

Giroud, 33, forced himself back into Frank Lampard’s plans just prior to the shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic and scored the Blues’ last goal in a 4-0 win over Everton in March.

The French international’s contract was due to expire at the end of this season, but Chelsea have ex-

Willy Caballero

ercised an option to extend that deal for another year.

“I am delighted to continue my journey and adventure at Chelsea,” said Giroud. “I can’t wait to get back to playing and enjoying competitive football with my team-mates.”

The former Arsenal striker came close to leaving the club in January in a bid to further his case for a place in France’s Euro 2020 squad after falling behind Tammy Abraham as Lampard’s firstchoice forward.

However, Giroud started Chelsea’s last three Premier League games and also

scored in a vital 2-1 win over Tottenham in February.

“Since I have been back at Chelsea, Olivier has been brilliant as a professional and as a man in general,” said Lampard.

“He has great qualities to help the squad both on and off the pitch, not only with his talent but with the example he sets every day and the experience he brings to our young squad.

I am very pleased that will continue next season.”

Caballero’s new deal will keep him at Stamford Bridge until months before his 40th birthday.

Organisers fear coronavirus impact on 2022 Qatar World Cup DUBAI, May 21 (Agencies): 2022 FIFA World Cup organizers are apprehensive football fans will not travel to Doha to watch games if the coronavirus pandemic continues to hold the global economy in dire straits.

Many countries have been reporting a slowdown in their economies while others are expected to go into historically deep recessions as the coronavirus pandemic, which affected 5 million people globally, shuttered businesses and caused industries to stall.

Major economies like the US have reported that retail sales fell a record 19 percent in April, and was a key reason why the American economy was contracting.

B r i t a i n’s e c o n o my shrank by a record 5.8 percent in March from February as the coronavirus crisis escalated, while its gross domestic product for the first three months of contracted by 2.0 percent from the fourth quarter of last year.

British economic output is set to crash 14 percent this year owing to the coronavirus, the Bank of England

earlier said.

Qatar has been promising that the World Cup would be affordable for fans, but has, itself, been affected by economic activity shutting down in so many countries.

The tiny Gulf nation still hopes six of its eight stadiums will be completed by the end of this year despite the COVID-19 disruption.

But its effort to fast track the construction of these venues has also raised criticisms over the conditions of migrant workers that Doha brought in.

One TV documentary has claimed at least 1,400 migrant workers from Nepal have died while working on the football stadiums due to construction site accidents and squalid living conditions. The frenetic con-

struction work for the 2022 FIFA World Cup is claiming around 110 lives every year, according to Nepali government figures.

The World Cup is scheduled to be played in November-December 2022,

rather than its usual JuneJuly slot, which may provide more time for the resumption of international travel but remains blurry considering the current global economic situation.

“By 2022 I’m optimistic that we would overcome this pandemic as a human race collectively,” World Cup organizing committee secretary general Hassan AlThawadi meanwhile said.

“It will be one of the early opportunities for all of us to celebrate together, to engage together, to bring people together.”

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