May 3, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 146

DIMAPUR, SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2020 Pages 6 (Online Edition)

Spell out plans on lockdown exit: Cong

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NATIONAL, PAGE 3

Biden denies sexual assault charges

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INTERNATIONAL, PAGE 6

Apex tribe bodies, organizations Borders will continue to remain sealed: CS demand rollback on COVID-19 cess Lockdown norms to remain in force

State government has notified that all the existing guidelines with regard to the lockdown in all parts of the state would continue to remain operative till the issuance of fresh guidelines. This was stated in an order issued by chief secretary Temjen Toy.

COVID: H&FW, Police dept launch ‘digital monitoring’ List of Equipment available in state

A ďŹ le photo of Dillai check gate during the lockdown on April 9. (NP)

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 2 (NPN): Even as Assam on Saturday decided to open the interstate borders with all the North Eastern states from May 3, Nagaland chief secretary Temjen Toy said that the state borders will continue to remain sealed.

He said that though Assam had contacted Nagaland to inform that it was opening the borders, Nagaland borders will continue to remain sealed. It was also learnt that Manipur has decided to open its borders.

Talking to Nagaland Post, Toy however said that there can be some relaxations for those coming from

green and orange zones. But those from red zones cannot enter the state, he asserted.

He said that people from green zones can be allowed, but it does not mean that the borders are open.

For those from orange zones, Toy said the government was working out the modalities.

Toy also informed that those wanting to go out can do so, but after following protocols. He pointed out that the state cannot allow mass exodus of stranded people now, as the government was still working out means to handle the issue.

With regard to interdistrict border, he said that since Nagaland falls under green zone, there should

ď Ź 50,000 personal protective equipment (PPEs)

be no problem for people to travel. There could be instances where people may have problems to travel to other districts, this should not happen, said Toy, adding the government will address the issue.

Meanwhile, Assam health minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma Saturday said that the borders with all North Eastern states except Sikkim will open from May 3 to allow stranded people from Assam to return.

No pass is required for people travelling from these states, he added. Sarma also said that all returnees will be screened at the inter-state borders for any COVID-19 symptoms.

ď Ź Around 2,75,000 triple layer masks ď Ź Over 40,000 N95 masks ď Ź 9 consignments of essential medical equipments, accessories and medicines received by air (Indian Air Force) and 13 consignments by road ď Ź 2 consignments by air for BSL 3 Lab at Kohima and the BSL 2 Lab at Dimapur D I M A P U R , M AY 2 (NPN): Health & Family Welfare department in collaboration with Nagaland police has started digital monitoring of people at risk as well as to track patterns of diseases clustering.

Informing this during the daily briefing on Saturday, government spokesperson and minister for Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary

Affairs Neiba Kronu said the digital monitoring is being carried out to facilitate surveillance to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, Kronu also gave the list of equipment currently available in the state. “We are continuously in the process of further strengthening our medical infrastructure and increasing our capabilities,� he said.

D I M A P U R , M AY 2 (NPN): Several apex tribe organisations have vehemently expressed their objections to the imposition of COVID-19 cess of Rs.5 on a litre of diesel, Rs.6 on a litre of petrol and motor spirits which came into effect from midnight of April 28.

In separate statements, the Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC), Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) and Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) have slammed the COVID-19 cess and demanded an immediate rollback.

NCD: In a statement issued by NCD vice president and convenor PAC, K. Ghokheto Chophy has expressed strong objection to the COVID-19 cess on petrol and diesel when people were undergoing hard times due to lockdown.

NCD said whatever explanation made by the state government in justifying the imposition of the cess was unreasonable and can never justify “such heartless deed.� In view of the above, NCD has asked all petrol pumps to shut down and appealed to all petrol

pump owners to “express their solidarity� with public in order to show resentment against the state government for as long as prices of fuel continue to hike up prices of essential commodities.

T h e r e f o r e, N C D demanded that the state government immediately withdraw the cess as various organisations have also come out strongly against the “reckless decision� to prove that the hikes were ill timed. When internationally, prices of oil have slumped there was no reason for the hike at the present juncture said NCD. Further, it said that the state government was not facing any shortage of funds as the Centre has granted generous amount to prepare and deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

NCD therefore, demanded that the thoughtless decision warranted its immediate withdrawal.

CNTC: CNTC said it was “dumbstruck and shocked� at the hikes on diesel, petrol and motor spirits which came at a time when the entire world was witnessing a global crash on prices of all petroleum

products. Stating that the decision to impose cess was unacceptable and unjustifiable by any logic, CNTC said it has only added to the woes of the suffering people and demanded its immediate rollback.

CNTC said all explanations and justifications for the cess at the present difficult times, were “empty and meaningless� and an insult on the people.

CNTC said it was simple logic that rise in prices of fuel will only push up prices of all commodities. Hence, instead of subsidising essential items and relieving public from hardships who are facing a difficult time, the government was only adding more burden on public just to earn revenue.

CNTC argued that enough grants were received from Prime Minister Care Fund, State Disaster Response Management Fund, NEC etc to combat COVID19. Therefore, it said, no explanation would justify the act. Further, CNTC said when the common people, especially the lower section of society were undergoing (Cont’d on p-3)

DoSE writes to I&B to facilitate broadcast Lockdown 3.0: MHA COVID-19 death toll rises to 1,223 Government of Nagaland

DIRECTORATE OF SCHOOL EDUCATION

Schedule of DD Telecast for FIRST WEEK CLASS IX

CLASS X

4:11 - 4:45 pm

4:46 - 5:20 pm

5:21 - 6:00 pm

3:00 - 3:35 pm

3:36 - 4:10 pm

English

Maths

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Social

English

Science

Social

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Science

Science

English

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Science

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Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 2 (NPN): With educational institutions in the State to remain shut till further notice, Department of School Education (DoSE) has launched the video and audio lessons through Doordarshan Kendra Kohima and All India Radio (AIR).

However, in order to reach out to all the students, the department has written to Information & Broadcasting (I&B) ministry

Maths English

to make DD available in other service providers like-- Tata Sky, Airtel TV etc.

Talking to Nagaland Post, DoSE principal director C. Shanavas Saturday said the ministry will be replying to the request very soon. (See table for timings) The principal director said that Doordarshan Kendra Kohima started the programme on May 1 and AIR from May 2.

For the first week-- from May 1 to May 7-- the focus area will be for Class 9 and 10

students where classes will be taken for 35 minutes each, the official said.

Shanavas informed that the video classes will not just be a one-time affair. Video and audio clips will be uploaded on Facebook and YouTube where students will be able to download them and view in their convenient time.

Also considering the limited access of television in rural areas, he said the department has requested the village councils and district administration to make use of the council halls where students can assemble and attend classes (class wise) by maintaining social distancing.

For class 12 students, Shanavas said the classes will begin by next week.

He also informed that this initiative will be carried out till lockdown period gets over.

Meanwhile, Shanavas informed that the department was contemplating to compensate the academic loss by cutting short summer break and also have classes on Saturdays.

clariďŹ es on activities

NEW DELHI, MAY 2 (PTI): Barber shops and salons located in green and orange zones will be allowed to open from Monday besides sale of non-essential items by ecommerce platforms during the third phase of lockdown which will be in force till May 17. Sale of liquor will be allowed with certain conditions in all zones -- green, orange and red -- barring containment areas.

Home Ministry (MHA) Saturday issued clarification on confusion over movement and opening of certain commercial activities. There are no restrictions on sale of non-essential items by e-commerce platforms in green/orange zones, MHA spokesperson clarified, adding barbers/salons are also allowed to open in these areas.

In red zones, the e-commerce companies are allowed to sell only essential commodities. Barber shops and salons are not allowed to open in red zones as these are services not goods.

Liquor sale is allowed in green, orange and red zones if it is a standalone shop and not located in markets or malls. In liquor shops, customers will have to maintain minimum six feet distance (2 gaz ki doori) from each other, and also ensure that not more than five persons are present at one time at the shop.

(Cont’d on p-3)

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NEW DELHI, MAY 2 (PTI): The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 1,223 and the number of cases climbed to 37,776 in the country on Saturday, registering an increase of 71 deaths and a

record jump of 2,411 cases in 24 hours, according to the Union health ministry.

The number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 26,565, while 10,017 people have recovered.

However, PTI figures reported by various states as on Saturday evening showed 37,707 COVID-19 cases and 1,232 deaths.

Meanwhile, over 3.3 million people around the world have been infected with the coronavirus and nearly 240,000 have died of COVID-19.

Nagaland: Results for 13 samples awaited

D I M A P U R , M AY 2 (NPN): State government spokesperson and minister, Neiba Kronu has informed that the state was awaiting the result of 13 samples of suspected COVID-19 case.

Till date, he said 674 samples were sent for testing from the State out of which 661 samples had tested negative and the result of remaining 13 awaited. As on May 2, Kronu said 1397 persons were screened and 21 persons currently under facility quarantine.

COVID-19 vaccine in 1 month? CSIR pins hope on Sepsivac NMC makes OPD services operational NEW DELHI, MAY 2 (IANS): India’s top research and development organisation, the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), which is currently testing a “repurposed� vaccine against Covid-19 in a

This is it!

“Advantage of live streaming. He doesn’t have to dress fully.�

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Phase 2 trial, is hoping to seek approval from drug controller for its wider use against the pandemic in as early as 30 days from now, the scientist who is coordinating the effort said on Saturday. CSIR is currently testing Cadila Pharmaceuticals’ “Sepsivac� against COVID-19.

This treatment was developed as a result of a partnership between CSIR and Cadila Pharmaceuticals many years ago. This immunotherapy treatment, which boosts “innate immunity�, was initially approved by Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for gram negative sepsis which is a disease caused by bacteria.

But the scientists found that the pathological symptoms of this disease and Covid-19 were quite similar. And given the urgency of finding a solution to the rapidly rising Covid-19

cases across the world, the scientists thought of testing the treatment against the current pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

CSIR got the approval to test “Sepsivac� against Covid-19 in a Phase 2 clinical trial about 10 days ago.

The trial is being conducted on 50 patients at AIIMS New Delhi, AIIMS Bhopal, and Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER) Chandigarh. “We expect the results from this Phase 2 trial within 30-45 days from now. And if the results are encouraging, we will seek approval from the drug controller because of emergency and keep on continuing the Phase 3 trial.

That’s how it happens,� Ram Vishwakarma, Director, Integrative Medicine (Council of Scientific & Industrial Research), Jammu, told IANS. Vishwakarma said that

once it applies, the approval from drug controller is expected to come fast as it is an emergency situation.

So if the Phase 2 trial shows that “Sepsivac� is effective against Covid-19, the world may have a vaccine against the disease as early as one month from now, at least for emergency use.

Meanwhile, Vishwakarma informed that CSIR has also got approval for conducting Phase 3 clinical trial of “Sepsivac� against Covid-19.

How does Sepsivac work?

It contains heat-killed mycobacterium w (Mw), an immunomodulator, which is a non-pathogenic mycobacterium. “Normally when you develop a vaccine, you grow the organism and kill it. It is called heat killed.

Here we heat killed the bacteria. It is a standard vaccine concept,� Vishwakarma said, adding that the

bacterium is produced by fermentation. “The treatment we are testing against Covid-19 is designed to enhance innate immunity which is very critical. People who are weak in innate immunity will get infection faster,� he said.

He explained that it is a non-specific vaccine which could be used to both cure and protect people.

He explained that there are generally three types of vaccines. “There are therapeutic vaccines, where you give them as a drug for curing.

There are prophylactic vaccines, which you give to people to protect them. And there are some which have both the properties, which are called immunomodulators...Sepsivac will be an immunomodulator, which will have protective effect and therapeutic effect both,� he said.

DIMAPUR, MAY 2 (NPN): With government doctors engaged in COVID-19 hospitals across the state, the volunteers from the Nagaland Medical Council (NMC) have come forward to render their assistance to people in need of medical services.

NMC said that two OPD consultative services were being successfully operated at Agri Forest sub-centre and para medical training institute (PMTI), Kohima.

In Dimapur, two outdoor patient consultative services at Kachari Gaon sub-centre and Diphupar sub-centre since April 22.

In Wokha, the sub-centre to be manned by volun-

teers have been made operational near CMO office.

In Mokokchung, two outdoor patient consultative services have been made operational since April 25, at Kumlong sub-centre and Impur Clinic AM Road.

Seeking assistance from the health department, NMC said OPD services, which would be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., would require full cooperation of the existing staff of the sub-centre. NMC has requested the department to address the issue of medicines shortage in Wokha and Mokokchung at the earliest in order to meet the need of OPDs in the designated sub-centres.

NMC said that as per information provided by CMO Wokha, presently CMC Vankhosung has been converted to Civil Hospital in lieu of the District Hospital identified as COVID Hospital. However, NMC said Mokokchung had no such alternatives. As regards, NMC has urged the department to make any needful arrangement. On the challenges being faced

by CMO Wokha for transporting samples to Imphal, NMC requested the authority to address the issue. For effective response to COVID pandemic, NMC stressed the need for a proper chain of command in district offices.

DIPR warns against false info on social media

DIMAPUR, MAY 2 (NPN): Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) has cautioned all responsible to refrain from sending out false information through social media platforms. With reference to the news item in Naga News dated April 29, 2020 regarding one patient testing positive for COVID-19 at Tuensang, the DIPR said the news item clearly mentioned that the exercise was a mock drill held at the GHSS Tuensang.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2020

Lockdown extended: More preventive measures; trainings and inspections

DIMAPUR: With the nationwide lockdown extended by another two weeks, the state government agencies continue to intensify preventive measures so the public do not become slack in following government guidelines. Trainings are being conducted for frontline workers in preparation for any eventuality of COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in the state. Announcements are being carried out intermittently through PA system while ambulances have reached some district headquarters and COVID Hospitals continue to be scrupulously prepared. The first Truenat Screening Lab has been installed at IMDH Mokokchung and another one is slated to be set up at Mon very soon. Sanitisation drives are also being conducted in various places across the state, especially in the border areas adjoining Assam.

mokokchung

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Truenat COVID-19 screening lab at the RDC, IMDH which Management of an unclaimed dead body suspected of NDRF team taking thermal screening of chief minister DC Kohima, Gregory Thejawelie chairing the Kohima was installed on May 1. (NP) COVID-19 during the mock drill at Mokokchung. (DIPR) Neiphiu Rio on May 2.

DTF COVID-19 review meeting. (DIPR)

Truenat Screening Lab installed at IMDH: Mokokchung installed a Truenat COVID-19 screening laboratory which was formally launched by minister Health & Family Welfare Pangyu Phom, at Regional Diagnostic Centre (RDC) Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH). The Truenat Screening Lab is from the Central TB Division New Delhi for use in National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) lab for TB patients. However, Truenat Lab can be used for other diseases also and since the state lacks a testing machine at present for the COVID-19, it is being used for screening of the same. The Truenat is a chip based RT-PCR for screening of COVID-19 and process of testing involves a respiratory sample from throat or nasopharyngeal swab is required for testing. If the test result is negative, the test is confirmatory negative for the sample. However, test maybe repeated after few days if the

case is still suspected of COVID-19.

In the case of a positive report, the sample needs a further confirmation

by RT-PCR from an ICMR approved lab. For the testing, the company has provided a Viral lysis media along with the test kit, so unlike other VTMs the virus is killed and thereby negating the need for Bio Safety Level cabinets.

But ICMR has stated that if BSL is available it is preferable. The test takes approximately 1 hour to generate the report, so testing can be done on an OPD basis. Usually, the cost for COVID-19 test in such labs cost around Rs. 1500/-, but the government has made the test free of cost. The installation of this lab is the first of its kind in the state and subsequently the second lab will be installed at Mon in a few days’ time, as per official sources.

(Correspondent) Mock drill on COVID-19 held: Mock drill was held at Mokokchung on May 2 to tackle the eventuality

of COVID-19 positive case in the district. According to DIPR report, the simulation involved a number of important Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) activities such as patient management and treatment, containment of COVID-19 positive area, dead body management of diseased COVID-19 positive patient, and management of unclaimed dead body of suspected COVID-19. The incident commander was ADC Mokokchung while DIG range, commanding officer 23 Assam Rifles and SP Mokokchung were the observers. Mock drill was followed by a de-briefing session at the Incident Command Post (Town Hall, Mokokchung) by deputy commissioner, Limawabang Jamir who is also the RO (Responsible Officer).

A number of procedural lapses were highlighted by the three officers duly noted by the team for future references and to ensure effectiveness should the situation arise.

zunheboto

DC Zunheboto Peter Lichamo hands over the key of the ambulance to MS and CMO Zunheboto. (DIPR)

Ambulance ser vice launched at Zunheboto: Fully equipped ambulance service, under the ministry of H & FW, which reached Zunheboto district on May 1, was launched by DC Zunheboto Peter Lichamo at Hezükhu Memorial District Hospital, with a dedicatory prayer programme on May 2. According to DIPR report, DC while addressing front line workers, public leaders and heads of departments, appealed to the department concerned to make use of the ambulance service with utmost sincerity for the purpose intended. While appreciating government for making the service possible at the district, he added that advisor, School Education,

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is the COVID-19 cess imposed in Nagaland justified?

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A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

35% 65% 0%

Next poll

Q: Will China lose much of

its economic growth due to blame for COVID-19?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say. WEATHER FORECAST may 3

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala

A stray t-storm in the morning

32 23

Aizawl

A t-storm around in the p.m.

26 16

Guwahati A stray afternoon t-storm

33 22

Imphal

A thunderstorm in the area

28 16

Itanagar

A stray morning t-storm

30 20

Shillong

Clear, a thunderstorm

22 13

Kohima

A t-storm around in spots

22 14

Dimapur

A thunderstorm in the area

31 19

Mkg

Cloudy, a t-storm in spots

24 16

Tuensang A shower or t-storm in spots

17 11

Cloudy, a t-storm in spots

24 18

Zunheboto Cloudy; a t-storm in spots

21 14

Wokha

K T Sükhalu should be given credit for the ambulance reaching the district at the earliest. The key for the ambulance handed over by DC was jointly received by MS and CMO, Zunheboto.

Sensitisation training held on COVID-19: Training and review meeting on COVID-19 for SMOs and MO i/c was held on May 1 at CMO office, Zunheboto.

A press release from CMO office district media officer, Shekho Sophie stated that, Dr. Alemwabang Aier DPO (RCH & UIP) shared about surveillance inside the containment and buffer zone.

He highlighted about contact listing, active surveillance, passive surveillance, field surveillance team, logistics

and sample collection test advisory. Dr. K Akaho Sema, Dy. CMO briefed about cluster containment strategy, cluster definition, trigger for action, defining containment zone and buffer zone, declaration of containment and buffer zones and perimeter control in the containment zone. Dr. Shikatoli Achumi spoke on influenza like illness, severe acute respiratory illness and rational use of PPE. Tokuli Wotsa DPM QA shared about contact tracing standard operation procedure and use of disinfectant. Scientific session was followed by discussion hour on micro-planning and preparedness status review which was moderated by Dr. Akaho Sema, Dy. CMO. Earlier, training-cum-meeting was chaired by Dr. Aron, DTO NTEP and welcome address was delivered by Dr. Khehokhu Chishi, CMO, Zunheboto.

Similarly, 2nd phase sensitisation training on COVID-19 for HoDs, school principals (government and private), ANM/ASHA/ AWW was held from April

NDRF screening and chamber, Kohima on May 2 Peducha Check Gate with organised by the office of sanitisation drive: One sub under the chairmanship of more manpower and re- Chief Medical Officer, Koteam of team Kohima 12 deputy commissioner Ko- sources involving Medical hima was held at its conferBn, NDRF, under com- hima Gregory Thejawelie. team, Police and SDRF for ence hall on May 2. Accordmand of SI/GD, K. P. According to DIPR report, proper screening, details ing to DIPR report, training Singh, carried out sanitisa- meeting was convened to of the persons and saniti- was conducted for the NST tion drive at old chief minis- discuss on how best the sation of vehicles which drivers and conductors who ter’s residence, meeting hall DTF can streamline and also include the essential have been detailed to per& surrounding area on May regulate things for effec- commodity trucks. Mem- form emergency COVID-19 2. A press release stated tive implementation of the bers also stressed on thor- duties. Dr. Rupert DIO Kothat, the team also con- guidelines for the next two ough and strict checkings of hima as the resource person ducted thermal screening of weeks extended lockdown. proper documents approved enlightened the drivers and all participants at the Joint Deliberating on the exten- by the concerned individual conductors on the basic Legislators Forum meeting sion of lockdown for fur- states while entering the safety measures with proper held the same day on Naga ther period of two weeks district at the inter-state guidelines and protocols of political issue, under chair- by the central government, check gates of the district COVID-19 to be followed manship of chief minister DC said considering that by the personnel manning while performing their duNeiphiu Rio. NDRF team certain relaxations are be- the gates. Members further ties. During the training, sprayed disinfectant consist- ing allowed as Nagaland discussed various issues Personal Protective Equiping of sodium hypochlorite is in green zone, however in regard to the prevalent ment (PPE) were also diswith the help of jet spray guarding and sealing of situation, which needs to tributed to all the personnel machines in connection boundaries was the most be regulated during this for safety measures. Station with COVID-19. critical area, which needed lockdown. superintendent, KevilhouDTF COVID-19 re- to be taken up seriously at Training for NST driv- tuo Sekhose and yard masview meeting held: Kohima this juncture. ers and conductors: A basic ter, Kekhriengutuo from District Task Force (DTF) In this regard, the DTF training for drivers and NST department attended COVID-19 review meet- decided to strengthen the conductors of the Nagaland the training along with the 28 to 29 at town hall Zun- ing was held at DC's office entry points, especially the State Transport (NST), drivers and conductors. heboto. Dr. Alemwabang Aier DPO (RCH & UIP) encouraged and motivated the participants to take spePangnyu visits District Hospital faced by the district be highlighted redressal at the earliest. Hoho also cial initiative. He informed Wokha: Minister of Health & Fami- to the government so that immedi- requested for basic medical equipthe public not to panic but ly Welfare S. Pangnyu Phom visited ate action can be initiated. Pangnyu ments as per the requirement of the to take precautions seriously Wokha COVID-19 District Hospital also appealed to the district admin- district such as X- Ray machine, to be safe from the virus. to oversee the preparedness taken istration, health department, Police ventilators, cardiac monitors, therHe talked about contact tracing and sample trans- by the District Task Force (DTF) and civil societies to be more united mal scanners and standard PPE. portation, risk communica- and health department to contain and co-operative to face any even- Deputy commissioner & chairman tion and social stigma and COVID-19 pandemic. According tuality. He also lauded the initiative DTF, Orenthung Lotha urged the also emphasized on sample to DIPR report, Dr. Motsuo Memo- undertaken by the deputy CM of minister to immediately post medicollection. Dr. K Akaho rial District Hospital is presently Home & R&B, Y. Patton who has cal officers at Yimpang, Yanmhon, Sema, Dy.CMO highlighted designated as COVID-19 district visited all the PHCs and sub-centres Moilan, Aree and Ralan villages about containment zone and hospital. Minister, while interacting under Wokha district. Beside other and to provide better health care dead body management. with the DTF and members of the logistics requirements of the dis- facilities to combat and to contain He briefed about the cluster Lotha Hoho, expressed satisfac- trict, chief medical officer, Wokha the pandemic crisis. Minister ascontainment strategy, defini- tion at the action plans taken up by Dr. C.W. Tungoe, also submitted a sured to address their requirements tion, perimeter control in DTF and health department after proposal for immediate posting of and informed the district to send the containment zone. Dr. inspecting health care facilities of medical officers in various PHCs a qualified person while collectChumdemo briefed about the designated district hospital. He centres. Lotha Hoho led by its chair- ing mentioned materials from the the factors in risk commu- also lauded the efforts put in by man who had inspected the district directorate. Earlier, Pangnyu also nication, social stigma and all the frontline workers who were hospital on April 20, found out that handed over one new ambulance to rational use of PPE un- rendering their selfless services. the COVID-19 District Hospital the district. He was accompanied der different situation. Dr. Minister stated that Wokha district does not have required doctors by minister of Housing Tongpang Shikatoli Achumi spoke on was a vulnerable and high-risk and medical equipment, for which Ozukum and advisor for Industries the active surveillance tips, zone area as the district shares long the Lotha Hoho has also submit- & Commerce, Skill Development, donning and doffing and ca- stretch of border with Assam and ted memorandum for immediate Imnatiba. Minister was received by tering. Tokuli Wotsa, DPM there may be many challenges while replacement of doctors attached to advisor Higher Technical & IT, Sci(QA) shared about preven- combating to contain the diseases. Dimapur and the one who was on ence & Technology, New & Renewtive measures and home He assured the DTF that in his own study leave. Hoho also stated that able Energy, Mmhonlumo Kikon, quarantine tips, quarantine capacity he would look forward the doctors are not posted as per the advisor for Horticulture & Border and isolation guarding tips, to assist the district in all possible sanctioned strength for the district Affairs, Mathung Yanthan and Dr. ways and added that, any grievances for which the Hoho appealed for Chumben Murry MLA. use of disinfectant.

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Mock drill on sanitation of quarantine centers by DMC in progress on May 2. (DIPR)

mon

Emergency relief to victims affected by storm: A total amount of Rs.15,16,500 allotted to Mon district by the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), Kohima for emergency relief of the victims affected by recent storm was distributed and handed over to the victims on April 27 at DC's conference hall by the deputy commissioner & chairman,

DDMA, Mon, Thavaseelan K. According to DIPR report, an amount of Rs.4 lakh each as ex-gratia was handed over to the family members of two people who passed away; Rs.1,01,900 to the victim of one fully damaged house, Rs.1,01,900 each to the victims of six) severely damaged houses and Rs.3,200 to the owner of one partially damaged house.

LBCA change of guard DIMAPUR: Lotha Baptist Churches Association (LBCA) held its handing and taking over of new office bearers on April 30 at Mission Compound Vankhosüng, Wokha. A press release from LBCA president O. Thungben Kikon stated that, outgoing executive secretary Rev. Nyanchumo has been replaced by Rev. Dr. L. Tsanso as the new executive secretary for the tenure 2020-25. In this regard, the release stated that all official correspondences pertaining to LBCA may now be addressed to and in the name of Rev. Dr. L. Tsanso, the new executive secretary.

wokha

Donations continue in the Fire outbreak contained midst of extended lockdown at Chümoukedima DIMAPUR: Distribution of essential food commodities and financial assistance by various agencies including the Assam Rifles continue during the nationwide lockdown to combat COVID-19 pandemic.

78 Bn CRPF Kohima: 78 Bn CRPF organized civic action programme at Phezoucha village, L Khel and Upper PR Hill, Kohima on May 2 and distributed ration items/sanitiser/mask etc to the needy.

According to 78 Bn CRPF, the items were distributed in the presence of Sh. Syamchand De, DIGP (OPS) Kohima, Sh. P.K. Mishra 2 I/C, sub-ordinate officers & men of D/78 Bn and other prominent members of village. Sh. Syamchand De, DIGP (OPS) KMA urged the villagers to take an active part in the fight against this disease and strictly follow all preventive measures.

LFI donates to four hospitals: Livingstone Foundation International (LFI) donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) sets and edible items to four hospitals on May 1 and 2. The hospitals

included District Hospital Dimapur, Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CISHR), Eden Hospital and Nikos Hospital. The team consisting of 8 members were flagged off by the chairman LFI, Dr. Andrew Ahoto and by the director LFI, Ani Yepthomi from the school campus.

BWA Dimapur: Khermahal and Nyamo Lotha area Business Welfare Association (BWA) provided ration to the daily wagers on May 2 in the presence of colony GB, leaders, association president and advisors.

YBC Longleng: Yaongyimchen Baptist Church (YCB) under Longleng district extended financial assistance on May 2 to the VGs of their village on COVID-19 duty, for their dedication and service towards the safety of the village.

Jalukie Battalion: Jalukie Battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (N), facilitated residents of Athibung sub-division with essential rations, face masks and hand sanitisers. 250 individuals benefitted out of this initiative.

Fire personnel dousing off fire at 7th Mile, Mhasud Stone Crusher, Chümoukedima.

DIMAPUR: Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES) dispatched a quick response team from Fire Station Chümoukedima on receiving information of fire outbreak at 7th Mile, Mhasud Stone Crusher, Chümoukedima on May 1.

A press release from F&CS Chümoukedima stated that, the fire personnel reached the incident site where three fire tenders along with sufficient equipments and personnel rushed to the spot. The fire was contained within 40 minutes.

Two kutcha houses to shelter the labourers were completely razed down, while property worth 10 lakhs approximately was lost in the fire incident.

Timely intervention prevented fire from further spreading to adjoining areas. The release stated that the cause of fire was due to short circuit. Altogether 24 families (labourers) were affected but no casualty was reported. Response team was led by duty commander SI Kenyuyhun Kent and ASI Thangpong Khiamniungan.

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Spell out plans on lockdown exit: Cong

New Delhi, May 2 (IANS): The Congress on Saturday questioned the Centre on a host of issues and demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi come forward to inform the countrymen on his government’s plans to deal with the ongoing coronavirus crisis and economic revival.

The opposition party’ stand comes a day after the central government announced to extend the nationwide lockdown for two more weeks till May 17.

Addressing the media through videoconference, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said: “Yesterday, the Home Ministry announced to extend the lockdown for two more weeks. Neither the Prime Minister came nor the Home Minister; and not even a single officer came forward. Only an order came for lockdown 3.0.”

Randeep S Surjewala He alleged that Modi and his government had not informed the country about the ways to come out of coronavirus crisis and how they will alleviate the people’s miseries.

Firing salvos at Modi, the Congress leader said, “Will we see another lockdown? When will the lockdown finally end? What is the ‘exit strategy’ from lockdown 3.0?”

The Prime Minister must come forward and address the citizens and

enlighten them on the way ahead, the Congress leader demanded.

Accusing the central government of not handling the issue of stranded migrant labourers in a humane manner, Surjewala urged the Centre to ferry these people to their native states in sanitised trains for free, apart from providing them food en route.

He also questioned the government about the plans to revive the Indian economy.

“What are the thoughts and policy of the Prime Minister for the nation? What is the road map, not only for harvesting and grant of MSP to farmers but also for sowing of the next kharif crops and availability of fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides?

What are the arrangements for ensuring livelihood and ration for over 40 crore urban and village poor and labourers? What is the relief package for 4.25 crore

COVID-19.

State chief secretary, Temjen Toy gave an overview of the various steps and measures taken by the government to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic In the health sector, the concerned department gave details of the steps taken for increasing their capabilities and the improvements carried out in the existing health infrastructure for combating the dreaded virus.

The additional chief secretary and finance commissioner, Sentiyanger Imchen gave an overview of the state’s fiscal health, actions taken for mobilization of additional resources along with initiation of some of austerity measures.

Food and Civil Supplies department also informed on distribution of PDS foodgrains as well as relief rice during the lockdown period.

CPO reiterates resolution on plantation DIMAPUR, MAY 2 (NPN): Reiterating its resolution ‘Year of Tree Plantation’ adopted during the general session at Phek town on January 10, 2020, the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) requested every village authority to implement the resolution during the month of May with all seriousness by collecting locally available nursery plant for plantation.

In a press release, CPO president Mikha Kenye and general secretary Veduvo Rhakho stated that CPO official programme was not possible at this moment, but added that inspection and numbers of tree planted by every village would be maintained for record. Stating that growing season of crops has started, the CPO maintained that every effort must be put to vigorously plant more crop with innovative method to harvest in abundance especially the farm-

MSMEs that generate 11 crore jobs?

“How do you propose to ensure ‘jobs and pay protection’ for the middle class and salaried people?

What is the strategy for revival and restarting tourism and hotel industry, textile industry, construction industry, automobile and IT industry, transport and aviation industry and other such sectors?” Surjewala questioned.

He said that Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and party leader Rahul Gandhi have repeatedly spoken about immediate announcement and implementation of a ‘Financial Action Plan Part-2’ and have written a number of letters to the Prime Minister to give concrete suggestions.

Surjewala reiterated the seven demands raised by the two top Congress leaders and said the fight against Covid-19 shall be united and not unitary.

ers. It stated that every cultivable land that was left abandoned must be acquired and be brought for cultivation.

The organisation also called for strong and effective planning for economic sustainability both at the state and village level.

Expressing concern over COVID-19 pandemic, CPO said people were “infested with doubts, fear and crippled with anxiety even if the virus has not harm us.”

The organisations has, therefore, suggested that quarantine and Covid-19 dead body management guidelines needed to be thoroughly disseminated especially among the villagers to avoid creating the attitude of social ostracizing. CPO said that precautionary measures and advisories given by the government also needed to be strictly observed along with all the administrative directives and order.

New Delhi, May 2 (PTI): Amid the coronavirus-induced lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday deliberated on ways to reform the agriculture sector with emphasis on agriculture marketing, access of farmers to institutional credit and freeing the sector of various restrictions with appropriate backing of laws.

The government has maintained that the country’s farm sector is functioning smoothly despite the COVID-19 lockdown and there will not be much impact on its growth in the current fiscal, unlike other sectors.

The pros and cons of bio-technological developments in crops or enhancement of productivity and reduction in input costs was also deliberated, an official statement said.

The meeting also focused on making strategic interventions in the existing marketing eco-system and bringing appropriate reforms in the context of rapid agricultural development.

Concessional credit flow to strengthen agriculture infrastructure, special Kisan Credit Card saturation drive for PM-Kisan

Apex tribe bodies, organizations demand rollback ...

(From p-1) hard time even for one plate of food due to lockdown and completely dependent upon relief for survival, the cess was a heartless act that was like adding salt to injury.

WSH: The WSH has described the hikes of diesel and petrol as “truly shocking and greatly distressing” and in complete disregard to the plight of the common man. WSH further stated, that it was “very unbecoming” of the state government to take such “an upsetting measure” when people were reeling under immense hardship on all fronts and with all economic activities and security disrupted. It said the government should be providing people’s needs and relieving their hardship, instead of adding to it by “ such a senseless act” that has only multiplied their

misery.

According to WSH, the most basic necessities such as health and food should be generously provided free of cost under the present situation rather than making things costlier due to the cascading effect of the hikes.

WSH also said the state government’s decisions to cut the DA and Dearness Relief of its employees then hiking the prices of fuel will only push up prices of almost all items and invoke double hardship on the people.

In the light of global slump on oil prices to the lowest ever level, WSH demanded that the state government immediately revoke COVID-19 cess.

Petroleum Dealers: Petroleum Dealers Association Dimapur (PDAD) and Kohima Petroleum Dealers

Association (LPDA) have also appealed to the state government to review its decision while considering the problems faced by the general public.

In a joint statement, PDAD president Neingutoulie Kengur üse and KPDA president T Jabou Sekhose clarified that the retail production outlets (petrol pumps) have no gain or loss in the recently increased price of fuel. They said that sale commission of the petrol pumps has remained the same, but the difference in the price due to the increase was paid into the coffers of the state government.

The two associations have, therefore, appealed to the public not to harass the petrol pumps in the issue of price rise as it was beyond their control.

DDCF: Dimapur

District Citizens’ Forum (DDCF) has said that despite call for rollback of COVID-19 cess, there was no positive response from the government on the issue.

DDCF through its media cell stated that with the imposition of COVID cess, the already skyrocketing prices of commodities would automatically shoot up again. It said fuel price hike would not only affect the prices of commodities, but also the citizens who had been under lockdown.

The forum stated that the increase of cess on petrol and diesel was “unthinkable” and should be withdrawn.

Further, DDCF appealed the state government to listen to the genuine appeals of the people and reconsider its decision for the welfare of the people.

Lockdown 3.0: MHA clarifies on activities (From p-1) These exemptions will be effective from May 4 when the third phase of the lockdown will begin.

Sale of liquor, opening of barber shops and salons have not been allowed during the first two phases of lockdown, which began on March 25. Sale of non-essential items by e-commerce companies was also not allowed.

On allowing domestic helps to K Y M C

work in red zones, a home ministry official said resident welfare associations should take a call regarding allowing the movement of outsiders.

But health protocols have to be maintained by domestic helps as well as employers, and the responsibility lies with the person who employs maids in case of any mishappening.

According to the new guidelines, taxis and cab aggregators including Ola and Uber are permitted, with one

Domestic, intl flights suspended till May 17

Chairman of Delhi Minority Commission booked for sedition

New Delhi, May 2 (Agencies): The ban on domestic, international flight operations has been extended till May 17, in line with the nationwide lockdown extension necessitated by the coronavirus outbreak.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said the foreign and domestic airlines will be informed about the opening of their operations in due course.

“The restriction shall not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved

by DGCA,” read the circular from the aviation watchdog.

Meanwhile, airlines have begun practising mock drills to educate and prepare staff for the new social distancing.

Prime Minister Modi has already emphasised the importance of ‘do gaj doori (distance of two yards).

New Delhi, May 2 (IANS): Delhi Police has started a sedition case against Delhi Minority Commission chairman Zafarul Islam Khan for his provocative remarks on the social media.

An FIR was registered even as Khan apologised and removed the controversial post.

Delhi Police Special Cell registered the FIR on the complaint of a Vasant Kunj resident. The complaint came to the Lodhi Colony office of the special cell, after the assistant commissioner of police (ACP) Safdarjung Enclave forwarded it.

The investigation has been handed over to special cell inspector Praveen Kumar.

According to the FIR, the copy of which is with IANS, Khan has been booked under several sec-

Zafarul Islam Khan tions of the Indian Penal Code - 124 A (sedition) and 153 A (Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc,).

Khan on April 28 had posted controversial comments on his Facebook page. “Mind you, bigots, Indian Muslims have opted until now not to complain to the Arab and Muslim

world about your hate campaigns and lynchings and riots. The day they are pushed to do that, bigots will face an avalanche,” Khan had written on Facebook.

However, the Delhi Minorities Commission’s chief on Friday had apologised for his controversial remark and had said that he never tried to tarnish the image of India. He also removed the controversial post from the social media.

Meanwhile, a pubic statement has been issued in solidarity with Zafarul Islam Khan by a group of NGOs and citizens which condemned the media trial targeting Khan.

The statement demanded legal action against those who are distorting Khan’s Facebook post and spreading false propaganda against him.

PM Modi discusses reforms in agriculture sector

Legislators deliberate on COVID-19 preparedness D I M A P U R , M AY 2 (NPN): State legislators-both ruling and opposition bench, members of parliament and senior officials led by chief minister Neiphiu Rio Saturday deliberated on the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Nagaland and preparedness level.

The legislators shared their opinions on the strategy to be followed for further improving the level of preparedness at all the levels in the state to combat

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2020

driver and two passengers only.

Inter-district movement of individuals and vehicles is allowed, only for permitted activities, with a maximum of two passengers, besides the driver, in four-wheeler vehicles.

In Orange Zones, inter-district and intra-district plying of buses remains prohibited. However, in Green Zones buses are operational with upto 50 per cent seating capacity and bus depots can operate with upto 50% capacity.

A labourer carries a sack of garlic at a wholesale market, during the ongoing COVID19 lockdown, in Jabalpur on Saturday. (PTI)

beneficiaries and facilitating inter and intra-state trade of agriculture produce to ensure fairest return to farmers were some of the other important areas covered, the statement said.

Developing eNAM or the National Agriculture Market into a “platform of platforms” to enable ecommerce was one of the important topics of discussion on Saturday.

Discussions also emanated on the possibilities of a uniform statutory framework in the country

2 terrorists killed in J&K S r i nag a r , M ay 2 (IANS): Two terrorists were killed in an encounter between security forces and terrorists in Pulwama in south Kashmir on Saturday.

IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar told IANS that the bodies of both the terrorists were recovered after the debris was cleared. Earlier, based on a specific intelligence input, a cordon and search operation was launched at Dangerpora in Pulwama by a joint team of the police and the army. As the security forces zeroed in on the spot where the terrorists were hiding, the militants fired upon them, which triggered the encounter. The firefight continued for a few hours.

AAP MLA Ravi tests positive

to facilitate new ways for farming which will infuse capital and technology in the agrarian economy.

The challenges of the Model Agricultural Land Leasing Act, 2016 and how to protect the interest of small and marginal farmers was discussed in detail in the meeting attended

by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Ways to make the Es-

sential Commodities Act compatible with present times so that large-scale private investment in postproduction agriculture infrastructure is incentivised, and how it has a positive effect on commodity derivative markets, was also discussed.

Developing ‘Brand India’, creation of commodity specific boards/ councils and promotion of agri-clusters or contract farming are some of the interventions that were deliberated to boost agriculture

commodity export.

The use of technology in the agriculture sector is of paramount importance as it has the potential to unlock the entire value chain for the benefit of farmers.

PM Modi emphasised on the dissemination of technology till the last mile and making farmers more competitive in the global value chain.

It was decided to further strengthen the role of Farmers Producer Organisations (FPOs) to bring vibrancy in the agrarian economy, transparency in agriculture trade and enable maximum benefits to the farmers.

Overall emphasis was on revisiting the existing laws governing the market for better price realisation and freedom of choice to the farmers, the statement said.

Taking to Twitter, the prime minister said the meeting reviewed aspects relating to agriculture reform.

“Our priority areas are reforms in agriculture marketing, management of marketable surplus, access of farmers to institutional credit and freeing agriculture sector of various restrictions,” he said.

NIA arrests absconder in Jharkhand’s arms seizure case

New Delhi, May 2 (IANS): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday said that it has arrested an absconding property manager from West Bengal’s Hooghly in connection with a case of arms seizure from Maoists in Jharkhand.

An NIA spokesperson said that Manoj Chaudhary, who allegedly acted as a property manager of Mast group in Jharkhand, was arrested from Hooghly on Friday morning. Incriminating documents showing transactions in immovable properties were seized from his possession, the spokesman said.

The accused - absconding for over three years - was later sent in

agency custody for five days by a Special NIA court in Ranchi.

The National Investigation Agency had registered the case against Maoists in May 2018 after a huge cache of arms and ammunition were seized from Giridih in March that year.

The police had arrested 15 suspected Maoists, including CPI-Maoist SAC member Sunil Manjhi.

The National Investigation Agency had later taken over the probe from police. The NIA later seized more arms and ammunition from Lugu Pahadi area of Bokaro.

The official said that investigation revealed that Chaudhary was an active

member of banned terror outfit Communist Party of India (Maoist) and he was instrumental in the investment of proceeds of terrorism like extortion or levy money collected by senior Maoists cadres in real estate.

“He was in contact with senior CPI (Maoist) cadres since 2008 and channeling their ill-gotten wealth into acquisition of immovable properties at prime locations in Giridih district of Jharkhand,” he said.

The National Investigation Agency had filed two charge sheets against 17 accused, including absconding Chaudhary on August 31, 2018 and January 8, 2019.

New Delhi, May 2 (IANS): Member of Legislative Assembly from Karol Bagh, Vishesh Ravi has tested positive for COVID19, AAP MLA informed on Saturday. Ravi wrote on Twitter, “I had fever from last one or two days, as per doctor’s advice I went for COVID-19 test. The report on Friday said I have tested positive.” “With god’s blessings, the health is fine but due to mild symptoms I have home quarantined myself,” Ravi added.

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Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 146 Dimapur, SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2020

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Pandemic disruption

n a state where people are hardly known to protest over budgetary matters, it was perhaps rare when various organisations and political parties expressed outrage at the imposition of the COVID-19 cess on diesel and petrol. The cess is an additional amount levied on petroleum products which are already taxed. The COVID-19 cess levies Rs.5 per litre on diesel and Rs.6 per litre on petrol and motor spirits. The cess came into effect from the midnight of April 28,2020. Two other states in the north east have also imposed cess. They include Assam-which levied cess of Rs.5.85 on petrol and Rs.5.43 on diesel on April 22; Meghalaya, which announced a 2 per cent sales tax surcharge on petrol and diesel on April 23, to combat falling revenue. Both Assam and Meghalaya imposed the surcharges to bolster their falling revenues and which means, these are not necessarily COVID-19 related. On the other hand, Nagaland Finance Commissioner Sentiyanger Imchen said the COVID-19 cess was primarily aimed at funding ongoing preparedness for COVID-19 and would continue till the central government officially announces the end of the pandemic. Nagaland’s revenues have fallen drastically due to the lockdown and now faces a huge challenge to tide over the burgeoning deficit projected to total around Rs.955.44 crore annually. As per the statement issued by the finance department, the state’s monthly requirement was Rs.374 crore but in April the state received only Rs.263 crore showing a deficit of Rs.111 crore. The state’s own resources have also drastically come down to Rs.21 crore from the projected estimate of Rs.98 crore(after lockdown) and indicating a shortfall of Rs.77 crore. The Covid-19 cess is expected to generate an additional Rs.55.58 crore annually. Between the justification for hiking up prices of petrol and diesel and the consequent negative impact; the difference is between a reason that sounds good and good reason. The point is whether the state has to spend around Rs.55.58 crore annually for COVID-19? There is need for more clarity and transparency on how much has been spent and how much is still needed to achieve the desired level of preparedness to combat COVID-19. The Modi-led government had, during first week of April, increased special additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess on petrol and diesel by a total of Rs 3 per litre in the post-lockdown period. According to provisional industry data for fuel consumption in the first half of April, petrol sales were down 64 per cent, while diesel slumped by 61 per cent. While demand has crumbled due to a national lockdown in place to check the spread of Covid-19, the past several weeks have also witnessed global crude oil rates - a key factor in determining daily fuel price revisions in India, have come down to record lows. While it should have resulted in fuel prices coming down correspondingly across pumps in India, that has not been the case and now several states are moving to impose a Covid-19 cess on the two fuels to generate more funds. Therefore, if consumption has drastically come down, then it means that the cess levied will cover hardly 40% of projected consumption. Again, if only three states in the north east imposed extra cess, then it will only create further imbalances if the remaining states maintain their present price levels.In the ultimate analysis, COVID-19 has not only caused havoc physically and socially but exacted huge toll economically.

DailyDevotion The Patience To Wait for the Vision

Though it tarries, wait for it… —Habakkuk 2:3 Patience is not the same as indifference; patience conveys the idea of someone who is tremendously strong and able to withstand all assaults. Having the vision of God is the source of patience because it gives us God’s true and proper inspiration. Moses endured, not because of his devotion to his principles of what was right, nor because of his sense of duty to God, but because he had a vision of God. “…he endured as seeing Him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27). A person who has the vision of God is not devoted to a cause or to any particular issue— he is devoted to God Himself.

You always know when the vision is of God because of the inspiration that comes with it. Things come to you with greatness and add vitality to your life because everything is energized by God. He may give you a time spiritually, with no word from Himself at all, just as His Son experienced during His time of temptation in the wilderness. When God does that, simply endure, and the power to endure will be there because you see God. “Though it tarries, wait for it….” The proof that we have the vision is that we are reaching out for more than we have already grasped. It is a bad thing to be satisfied spiritually. The psalmist said, “What shall I render to the Lord…? I will take up the cup of salvation…” (Psalm 116:12-13). We are apt to look for satisfaction within ourselves and say, “Now I’ve got it! Now I am completely sanctified. Now I can endure.” Instantly we are on the road to ruin. Our reach must exceed our grasp. Paul said, “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on…” (Philippians 3:12). If we have only what we have experienced, we have nothing. But if we have the inspiration of the vision of God, we have more than we can experience. Beware of the danger of spiritual relaxation.

Quotes

Change your life today. Don’t gamble on the future, act now, without delay. ~ Simone de Beauvoir

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2020

Post-mortem

Burial site of COVID-19 with special focus on Dimapur U nfortunate for the world at this age where unknown disease called Corona virus (COVID-19) attack the world and had claimed the life of millions, life of high or low, rich or poor, black or white, throughout the world, blind to the countries of super power day and night counting the death reaching millions and is still going on and if it goes on at this pace for a year or beyond one can imagine that the end has come for the extinction of human life on this earth, and if we goes extinct this way, it’s not nuclear weapon that we were afraid of, which we think that one day it can finish the planet earth by some super power country like USA, Russia China and so on. On hearing the outbreak of this COVID-19 in Wuhan China, it was around February 2020, I wrote in my Face Book that this disease is either some biological weapon or some change in our DNA structure in human cell because of evolution and can no longer resist the virus that are naturally present

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in this world from since time immemorial and if it is so we may all perish from this earth, but one scientist from France responded me saying that this is natural, she also said that it only becomes active during cold weather (winter time) and it claims many lives every year and it stops, this is the strongest belief of scientist ,it is also said that latest finding of this virus is that it is because of virus infected by bacteria and is spreading unstoppably. Yes whatever it may be, we are in a grave danger.

Back to our home state Nagaland. Though other neighboring state including Assam, Manipur are counting the COVID19 positive cases, we still stand nil in the chart in India which I attribute to NBCC declaring Nagaland for Christ and this is the work of God, the creator of Heaven and earth, that is protecting us from this dreadful disease and I am thankful to NBCC and all the Christian, believers, and I believe in prayer and I hope all the Nagas are praying ceaselessly at this juncture but still we need to

pray for each other more.

Medical facilities in the state, we all know that though so many doctors are qualifying their degrees every year and many private hospitals has come up with lots of experienced doctors with latest medical technological equipment every year to our satisfactions and we can satisfactorily relay on for any other sickness. In addition to those the state government is also trying its best under the dynamic leadership of Shri N. Rio, the Honorable Chief Minister of Nagaland, by forming many committees by selecting different capable leaders from different fields to prevent this pandemic in the state also installing many latest world class medical equipments in the state, however from the social medias, it is seen by the world that in many advance countries world class, supper class hospitals are becoming helpless and even many hospitals with advance sophisticated equipment are seen closed down, which lead the Nagas to think what will happen if this dreadful pandemic en-

ter our state? Will Nagas perish together from this disease? is the question every Nagas have in their mind.

Dimapur in Nagaland; We all know that Dimapur is a cosmopolitan city and it can rightly be called the gateway of Nagaland, every daily needs of almost whole Nagas come through Dimapur city being the only train station in Nagaland and the only Airport located here, besides the essential commodities, different people from throughout the country enter Dimapur first for any duty in any part of the state or Manipur because all the vehicle for Manipur of both cargos and passengers goes through this city, and this leads the citizens of Dimapur city think that if COVID-19 pandemic enter the state it will hit Dimapur city and we will be surely the first victims of this virus.

This apprehension in everyone’s mind leads to think where will the dead body be buried especially in Dimapur city, and mostly the cemetery in the city are under the lookout of Naga Council Dimapur (NCD).

I am sure the officials of Naga Council Dimapur are spending sleepless night for any eventuality and for this we the Dimapurians must pray for them so that God gives them wisdom to take the right decision which may not bring doom to our city. According to press conference in certain TV channel, president Naga Council Dimapur, Dimapur city have two cemeteries, one at lake view but he said that it is going to be full and the next is New Naga Cemetery at Zani village which is about 5 KM from Purana Bazaar Dimapur, of course cemetery is meant to burry dead body but in this case, the authority should think it over and over again and not to take hasty decision till the disease is conquered or make known by the scientist of what it is, because till now what scientist know is that it is highly contagious in other word easily spread from one person to another, and advice of social distancing and frequent hand washing are not promising preventive measure, which is clear from the fact that if someone die

from COVID-19, even his or her dear ones are also not allowed to go near the dead body or loved ones are refrains from attending the funeral service too.

From here it is developed in everyone’s mind that even if an ambulance carrying the COVID-19 deceased cross their house or shop they will get infected means crossing someone’s house with dead body in coffin will surely hurt the sentiment of other or someone whose house is few meters from the cemetery with no other options will have to go for legal battle or incase someone in the vicinity of cemetery get infected due to burial of the COVID19 disease, the authority had to compensate, beside all these, we need to give prior importance to life itself whoever he or she may be, and in order to prevent all these it will be better to install electric furnace within the premises of COVID-19 Hospitals in every district and every Naga citizens should give full cooperation.

K. Hukuto Khulu GB, Bamunpukhuri-A Dimapur

Together, we progress

ssociation of Ko- oneself, put off strikes pro- lockdown. In this respect, arise, the virus will spread spreading COVID-19 like of other strains of the same h i m a M u n i c i p a l tests temporarily and take all the association would like like wildfire. Our practical wildfire. virus, thus resulting in some Regretfully, this may patients to be discharged Wards Panchayat possible measures to ensure to convey its apprehension experience with COVID-19 (AKMWP) was privileged that no diversion of time, on the dangers of a sud- is practically zero, consider- lead our history towards an from hospitals as being to simulate and consider the attention and resources of den and complete lifting of ing that a certain carrier was unexpected turn, if at all. cured of COVID-19, only to The current objective be readmitted for treatment varied evolving scenarios in the Government from the lockdown. This will cause detected COVID-19 positive the eminent end of the 21 task. a sudden burst of activities only after he was shifted to assessment of our resources for COVID-19 of another days nation lockdown and It is entirely another and may undo all we have Guwahati and tested there. to combat COVID-19 is not strain and so forth.

Enforced Quarantine, encouraging. the subsequent likelihood matter for the Government achieved through these long We are painfully aware does not a high security It may be added that and suffer for our near and of the State Government of the day to live up to it days of lockdown. having to consider and find and clear any mistrust and The other area of prison make. Especially for the state, its institutions and dear ones stranded outside, the best and safest path to win back the confidence of concern is that certain un- people infected by the virus agencies and us, the public, but surely, all can stand to lead its people from the the public. traced attendees of religious but is not being detected by are fully geared up and reason and the Government ready to combat COVID- is capable and willing to act current Global COVID-19 In this connection, spe- conventions (hotspots of the tests yet.

In all fairness, Negative 19, provided that we do promptly to alleviate their Pandemic situation. AK- cial mention of the Kohima COVID-19) are believed MWP, as a responsible apex Village Council (KVC) in to be cooling their heels result for COVID-19 test not have a single case of problems, to the extent body of the entire Wards, agreeing to permit burial in neighbouring states and almost always reassures the COVID-19 infection, within possible.

Panchayats, sectors, colo- of Covid-19 dead bodies, eager to crossover with the mind- ‘No Problem’, Other our boundaries. We need to The scenario in a nutnies within the territorial within its ancestral lands, first opportunity. Suitable virus are quick to show after keep it this way. shell, regarding interstate A brief assessment of travel and resumption of limits of the municipality of is noteworthy and deserves countermeasures are ur- infection unlike the slow starter Corona. This makes our capabilities would in- commercial air services, Kohima, is obliged to make our appreciation. In the gently requested. an earnest appeal for the midst of widespread panic The extent of troubles one wonder, How can our dicate inadequate number should be understood like well being of the people of stirred up by the COVID-19 and difficulties endured by political and higher govern- of hospitals, equipments, Corona free Nagaland the state in general and the pandemic, KVC with a calm the economically disadvan- ment functionaries remain availability of quality PPE being a beautiful inflated residents under the Kohima rational mindset displayed taged, daily labourers, wage confined and quarantined sets, inadequate number of balloon and if a tiny pin ventilators, the two stage 3 accidently pricks the balmunicipality in particular. its confidence in the Gov- earners, small businesses, for 14 days?

The phrase- ‘in public laboratories, despite untir- loon, kaput..

Appeal I is to all citi- ernment and the Health and stranded students and the zens, NGOs, unions and by Family Welfare Department likes has been much painful interest’ is all too power- ing efforts may be at least Should any doubt or whatsoever name called, to that observance of COVID- and if lock down should be ful’ and consequently, may a fortnight away from be- difficulties arises the call for adhere to the Fundamen- 19 guidelines, in addition to continued, a fresh relook prove to be all too infectious ing fully functional and continued ban on interstate even after it becomes fully travel is for a limited period tal Duties and extend all strict conformance of the into alleviating their miser- and deadly.

The other set of influ- functional, we are reminded of time only, we urge the possible assistance to the specified procedures in dis- ies needs top priority.

Government in the greater infection, sealing, disposal The association con- ential people, the who is of the WHOs admission state Government to choose interest of our Collective of the corpse, etc., will not ducted an in house opinion who of the state are also that these tests results have to err on the side of caution, Safety. enhance the likelihood of poll and the overwhelming enterprising enough to re- to be understood in this we have much to lose if we Appeal II is to the State contracting or spreading the majority opined that the define quarantine with a context- That the Corona fail, and let it not be under Government, its agencies, disease, therefore we need lockdown was not very ef- clean conscience, consid- virus mutates rapidly, into our watch.

District Administration, not restrict ourselves from fective but should remain, ering their first test result varying levels of virility and Praying for wisdom KMC and other authorities performing our duties and albeit with suitable changes turned negative. Need we may have already mutated upon our Government and or will mutate into other assuring our complete supto consider this appeal on obligations. It is indeed a wherever found wanting, go on and on and on?

The likely scenario, in strains eventually. The cur- port, we look forward to its merits and an assurance beacon of light showing our we need to enforce social to continue rendering even villages and communities distancing at all cost and the event of even a single rently known strains of the fighting COVID-19 and greater support in our com- not to bury our heads in the continually weigh the price such infected traveller get- known Corona virus being getting rid of it. Together, mon fight against COVID19 sands but be open to scien- of lockdown against loss to ting past the barricades to strain A, B and C. we progress.

Furthermore, vaccines Pandemic. tific reasoning and cooper- human lives. Therefore cau- their respective homes in Neibulie Keiwhuo, Appeal I ate with our Government, tious step by step modifica- villages, colonies and towns and antibodies developed President.

Thejao SekThe AKMWP, recog- whose primary role is our tions in dealing lockdown as carriers may result in in the body of a person hose, General Secretary. directly or indirectly infecthaving recovered from the nizing the need of a uni- safety and well-being. would be most reasonable.

Hukato Chishi, Legal fied team, starting from an On the other hand, B. Asymptomatic ing family members, friends, attack of one of the three Advisor & Joint Secretary relatives, and the entire vilstrains, does not guarantee individual citizen, families, reports of a person being transmission, is the Achilles’ (AKMWP) communities... Upto the stopped from coming home heel of current strategies to lages, colonies and towns immunity from the attacks Governments of the state, by some neighbours was control COVID-19. As to renation and even a coordi- most unfortunate and de- laxation of interstate travel, nated collective effort at the serves utmost condemna- resumption of commercial international level through tion. Such shameful acts flights, trains and buses, The the World Health Organi- of individuals or groups Association appeals most zation (WHO) recognises shows blatant disregard vociferously for 100% ban the need for all to faith- and defiance of the rule of for the time being. fully execute our duties to law and respects to fellow It is by grace that not the best extent possible, in citizens and therefore shall a single known case of Sir, There are above fifty distressed students from Nagaland, stuck in Madhya the collective fight against be inviting serious action COVID-19 is known to COVID-19, pleads and re- upon themselves. be present in the state, as Pradesh, seeking help as they are unable to come back home due to Lockdown minds all individual citizens, The Quarantine period of today. And one of the imposed by Ministry of Home Affairs following spread of the deadly novel coroNGOs, unions, etc under the was observed, multiple tests major modes of infection navirus.

Most of the students had booked their flights and train tickets scheduled for territorial limits of Kohima had yielded negative results is determined to be directly Municipality to acknowl- and eventually was duly or indirectly associated to the month of March and April to get back home (Nagaland) but the flights and edge, respect and obey the certified to be free from the asymptomatic human car- trains were cancelled. Now that each day is weighing heavily on their pockets in authority of the lawfully disease by the empowered riers. terms of food, lodging and also health concerns and insecurity and aredesperate to established Government authority, however, rationalThe entry of appar- get back home due to uncertainty of present situation. and to extend all possible ity couldn’t help the one- ently healthy air passengers Moreover, some of the students had already completed their academic year. cooperation. At any extraor- track mind set. from a Corona hotspot or Many of the working professions facing hardship as they lived through their small dinary emergent times, the The mere coincidence unknowingly exposed from earnings but now due to said situation they are helpless and only looking for the Government of the day is of having been a co pas- secondary sources, etc., will Government for quick response and helping hand. They are looking forward the the legitimate, empowered senger of COVID-19 carrier, be like innocently packing State government to initiate in helping to return to their respective home as other institution with resources in that ill fated commercial gift of the dreaded virus state governments have done so. and know-how and can be flight to Dimapur does not inside his body, or may let Some of them didn’t get any financial assistance, despite appealing to the held accountable. How we merit such treatment and the virus ride piggyback on website that Nagaland govt had provided. Many issues regarding bank accounts as emerge later will depend on therefore the matter requires his body surface, clothes and the trust, respect, compli- prompt redressal. other articles. This would many people didn’t have their own bank account. For this they applied with their ance and co-operation of Appeal II cause even the better trained friends’ bank account however they didn’t receive neither Govt fund nor CM fund. the citizens. This requires A. It is for the Gov- and better equipped front- It is requirement of the hour that the state government should take seriously and us to re-assess our priorities, ernment to determine the line worker at all levels act promptly to this situation to bring back stranded people home.

W Honka Konyak, M.Div Central India Theological Seminary, review grievance redressal course of action after the ex- to be exposed and should exercise patience and pace piry of the 21 days National the slightest complacency Madhya Pradesh Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

Reader’s Post

Bring stranded people home

northeast

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2020

Meghalaya likely to be 5th corona-free state in NE

G u w a h a t i / S h i l l o n g, M ay 2 (IANS): Meghalaya would soon be the fifth COVID19-free state out of the eight states in northeast India as the state’s 10 of the 11 corona patients tested negative while of the total 42 positive cases, Assam’s active cases now stand at only nine, Ministers and officials said on Friday.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma told media in Shillong that out of the 11 active cases, 10 were retested and their swab samples were found to be negative.

“The second test of the 11th patient has come out negative and within 24 hours, another testing would be done and if that also comes out negative, the patient would be declared recovered,” the Chief Minister said after a review meeting.

The mountainous state had found a total of 12 COVID-19 positive cases out of which 11 were active

Conrad K. Sangma

until Thursday and one person, a doctor, died.

Most of the positive cases are either family members or private hospital’s staff.

In Guwahati, Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said three more patients following their recovery from coronavirus were discharged from hospitals on Friday. “Only nine active cases remained in the state and were undergoing treatments in various medical colleges and hospitals,” he told the media.

Assam’s total positive case of 42 exclude a 33-yearold trader from Nagaland’s

Dimapur who is undergoing treatment at the Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) since April 12 after he tested positive for coronavirus.

“Nagaland patient also discharged from the GMCH on Friday,” Sarma said, adding that most of the nine patients undergoing treatments in various medical colleges and hospitals are expected to be released within a few days.

Of Assam’s 42 cases, 37 people directly or indirectly participated in Delhi’s Nizamuddin Tablighi Jamaat congregation while one patient, with a history of foreign travel, died in southern Assam on April 10.

The first patient to test positive for coronavirus in Assam -- 57-year-old extrooper of Border Security Force, who was detected on March 31 -- is still undergoing treatment at Silchar Medical College and Hospital. He is a cancer patient too.

Two BSF men test positive for COVID-19 in Tripura

Agartala, May 2 (PTI): Two BSF personnel on Saturday tested positive for novel coronavirus in Tripura, days after two COVID-19 patients in the state were cured of the disease, Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb said.

“Alert! In Tripura two persons from Ambassa #BSF unit found #COVID19 positive. Total #COVID19 positive cases in Tripura stands at 4.

(Two already discharged, so active hospital cases: 2),” Deb wrote on Facebook.

A BSF head constable posted at Ambassa in Dhalai district was admitted to a hospital with stomachache on March 25. He was later referred to state-run GB Pant Hospital in Agartala, BSF spokesperson C L Belwa said.

“A constable of the force was posted as the patient’s attendant. Both have tested positive for COVID19 during a check-up at the hospital,” he said.

The chief minister had on April 23 declared

Tripura as “novel coronavirus-free” after the second COVID-19 patient in the state tested negative for the disease.

The first patient had recovered on April 16.

The first COVID-19 patient in Tripura, who had visited the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati before the lockdown was imposed, had tested positive for the disease on April 6. She recovered and was discharged on April 16, after which she was shifted to a quarantine centre in Gomati district.

A Tripura State Rifles (TSR) personnel had also tested positive for the COVID-19 in Damcherra in North Tripura district on April 16. He was later admitted to an isolation ward in the GB Pant Hospital, where he tested negative for the disease in subsequent tests.

Two of the eight districts in the state are in the ‘orange’ category while the remaining districts have been declared as ‘green zones’.

Manipur Cong ready to go to SC Mizoram Congress alleges for disqualification of 7 MLAs irregularities in purchase of PPEs Correspondent

IMPHAL, May 2: Manipur Congress said it was ready to knock at the door of Supreme Court again regarding the pending disqualification of its seven MLAs who had defected to the BJP in the backdrop of Speaker’s delay in pronouncing his verdict, despite the landmark judgment of the apex court.

Addressing a press conference, Congress MLA K Meghachandra, one of the petitioners seeking disqualification of the seven MLAs, alleged that despite Supreme Court’s order, the tribunal of Speaker of Manipur Assembly has failed to pronounce its final verdict on the pending petitions.

He reminded that the apex court had given a landmark judgment in the disqualification case under the 10th Schedule on January 21 last. In the order, the apex court ordered that all the disqualification cases must be disposed within three months. Meghachandra said that the three

months had already lapsed but the Speaker is yet to take any decision regarding the petitions for disqualification of the seven MLAs till date.

Mention may be made that it was following the judgment of the Supreme Court that recently the Speaker pronounced his tribunal’s final verdict of the petitions seeking disqualification of the then state forest minister Th Shyamkumar.

The Speaker disqualified Shyamkumar, who won the election on Congress ticket but defected and joined BJP even before taking oath as member of the state Assembly, from being a member of the state Assembly.

During the proceedings of hearing Shyamkumar’s case, the Speaker had also taken up the cases of the seven MLAs but had not taken any final decision till date. The MLAs facing disqualification cases are: Oinam Lukhoi, Ksh Biren, Paonam Brojen, Sanasam Biramani, Ngamthang Ha-

okip, Ginsuanhau and Y Surchandra.

The Congress MLA’s disclosure regarding knocking at the door of the Supreme Court came barely three days after the Speaker had fixed the date for next hearing of disqualification petitions against them on coming May 8.

The tribunal of the Speaker had already been listed three days ago.

Mention may be made here that after hearing a disqualification petition filed by Congress MLAs Meghachandra and Fajur Rahim, the Supreme Court had in March this year stripped the cabinet minister Th Shyamkumar Singh and banned his entry into the Assembly. Subsequently, the Speaker had disqualified Shyamkumar as a member of the Assembly. Earlier, in January 21 last, the apex court in its judgment gave a maximum period of three months for the Speaker to decide on all pending matters under the 10th Schedule of the Constitution.

Himalayan black bear cub rescued; handed over to Pakke Tiger Reserve

Aizawl, May 2 (PTI): The Mizoram Congress has lodged a complaint with the state Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB), an autonomous body, alleging that there were irregularities in the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) sets and other safety gears.

The Congress also alleged the sets of the coveralls were “substandard” and “not fit for use”, and the materials were not bought from the approved suppliers.

State Health and Family Welfare Board vice chairman and ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) legislator Dr Z R Thiamsanga denied the allegation and said “no public money was wasted in the procurement and none of the PPEs were rejected”.

The state gover nment had spent “Rs 99 lakh for purchasing a batch of 10,900 PPEs and other medical equipment weighing 1,979 kg”, Congress leader Lalhriatpuia claimed.

“The consignment was supplied here on March 27 from New Delhi through a cargo flight, and it was a wasteful expenditure as the products were faulty and not fit for use,” he said, adding that the party has requested the Anti Corrup-

tion Bureau to probe into the matter.

The Congress alleged that the government had also spent Rs 16.2 lakh from state disaster management and rehabilitation department for arranging the cargo flight.

Any procurement, which had not been made through the state Purchase Advisory Board, was a “gross violation of law”, the party leader said.

Thiamsanga said the “departmental procedure such as taking quotation before placing the order could not be followed due to scarcity of PPEs in the country”.

“We had to act quickly as one COVID-19 case was detected that time, and the state needed PPEs urgently for the safety of our medical staff,” he said.

However, all the other consignments, received after March 27, were procured through proper channel, Thiamsanga said.

He said the government led by Chief Minister Zoramthanga had worked hard to manage a cargo flight for supplying of the consignment.

Thiamsanga, who also heads the medical operational team on COVID-19, said that the opposition party must have been misinformed about the matter.

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

The rescued Himalayan Black Bear cub. Courtesy- Inside NE.

I ta nag a r , M ay 2 (PTI): A Himalayan black bear cub rescued from the Lower Siang district in Arunachal Pradesh has been handed over to the authorities of Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation at Pakke Tiger Reserve in Seijosa, forest officials on Saturday.

The two-month-old cub was rescued by one Marmi Riba, a resident of Old Deka village in New Seren circle of Lower Siang district, from a forest area in the first week of April.

The cub was separated from the mother, Range Officer of Nari Forest Range K Y M C

Jumgo Geyi said.

The cub was handed over to the officials and veterinary doctors of the rehabilitation centre on Thursday, he added.

Geyi said the cub was too young to survive in the wild if released and hence it was handed over to the animal rehabilitation centre.

On receiving information about its rescue, we informed the authorities of Biological Park in Itanagar but due to the lockdown, the transportation of the cub was not possible. However, the cub was taken care of by the rescuer with telephonic guidance of the veterinary

officer of the Biological Park, Geyi informed.

On pursuance of Pasighat Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Tashi Mize, the officials of Rehabilitation Centre took custody of the bear, Geyi added.

The Asiatic bear rehabilitation project at Seijosa in East Kameng district was officially launched on March 15, 2002 after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked between the state forest department and Wildlife Trust of India.

Since then the centre is home to many rescued Asiatic black bear cubs of the region.

Late Miss MOAJUNGLA JAMIR (Chuchuyimlang) 23.09.1989 – 03.05.2019

“We loved her a lot, but God loved her more.”

It has been a year without you, You left us without saying Goodbye.

The sweet memories of you relieves the painful tears That we shed in missing you.

Your life was a blessing for us, your memory a treasure, You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

PRECIOUS ARE OUR MEMORIES OF YOU

MKC-123

Yours beloved, Oja, Oba, Maong, Sunep and Relatives.

5

Mnp evacuates 84 stranded citizens from Guwahati

Correspondent

IMPHAL, MAY 2: Manipur’s mission of bringing back state people stranded outside due to COVId-19 lockdown successfully completed when four buses with 87 people from Guwahati arrived at Imphal on Saturday afternoon. Even as no COVID-19 symptoms were detected in any of the individuals, they have all been lodged at a government designated quarantine centre in Imphal where they will stay for two weeks as per COVID-19 guideline.

The transport department of Manipur had on April 29 sent the four buses for the return of 84 people from Manipur stranded at Manipur Bhavan in Guwahati after the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

Though the authority sent four buses to bring back 84 stranded people, 87 people at Bhavan were on board the buses that arrived in Imphal today afternoon.

The returnees included six patients and 37 students.

According to officials of the state medical department, all individuals on board the buses including officials were screened when they entered the state from Mao gate bordering Nagaland. They were again screened for the corona virus on reaching Imphal and before being sent to government designated quarantine centre (Imphal Valley Academy campus) in Imphal West district.State health minister L Jayentakumar who visited the quarantine centre, later told those who arrived on the busses that the deadly nature of the contagion virus has compelled the state

A patient who was among 84 evacuated to Imphal from Guwahati being escorted to quarantine centre in Imphal.

government to put them on quarantine before sending back them to their respective families. “It doesn’t mean that you are the carriers of the virus. Government has done this not only in the interest of the masses but also for your safety (passengers who arrived today),” the health minister said. The minister then sought cooperation of the passengers while calling for a concerted effort in checking the spread of the virus in the state.

“We need such extreme step to safe the future generation,” he said and assured all facilities and health experts to monitor their health conditions every day during quarantine period.

Jayentakumar further appealed to the quarantined people to strictly follow the dos and don’ts during their stay at the facility. On the other hand, Shantikumar Singh who led the team bringing back stranded people, said that they did face some problems on their way back to Imphal, particularly at the police check posts within Nagaland, allegedly due to inter-state communication gaps. He suggested the state government to properly communicate with

the concerned authorities of Assam and Nagaland if government in the future plans to bring back stranded people of the state. It may be mentioned here that the state police department had informed of details of the buses and journey to their counterparts in Nagaland and Assam.

Shantikumar further informed that over 500 individuals from the state staying in Assam or stranded in Guwahati due to the lockdown were waiting for their return to the state. Meanwhile, a government notification advised state people stuck in Assam, particularly in Guwahati, to avail facilities for boarding and lodging free of cost at the Manipur Bhavan at Guwahati after the 84 people were vacated the Bhavan.

“It is hereby notified for information of all bonafide stranded passengers of Manipur who are in need of accommodation and food that they can avail of the facilities of accommodation with food free of cost in the Manipur Bhavan, Guwahati against the accommodations being vacated by the 84 persons,” the government notification said.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Through this column I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all those who supported me in various ways, during the unfortunate incident which occurred to me on the midnight of 3rd April 2020 at Purana Bazaar, Dimapur.

I convey my special thanks to :1. Families, Relatives & Neighbours 2. Rotetso Clan Kidima (RCK) 3. Temi Khel Council (TKC) & Temi Youth Club (TYC), Kidima 4. Kidima Gazetted Officers Forum (KGOF) 5. Kidima Youth Organization Dimapur (KYOD) & Kidima Student’s Union Dimapur (KSUD) 6. Kidima Village Agencies: Kidima Village Council (KVC), Kidima Village Development Board (KVDB), Kidima Student Union (KSU), Kidima Youth Organization (KYO) & Kidima Women Society (KWS) 7. Kidima Community Kohima (KCK) 8. Kidima Community Dimapur Area (KCDA) 9. Chief Medical Office (CMO) & Staff /Medical Superintendent & Staff (DHD), Dimapur 10. Health Centre Management Committee (HCMC), CHC Medziphema 11. Indian Medical Association - Nagaland State Branch (IMAN) 12. Nagaland In-Service Doctor Association (NIDA) 13. Nagaland Medical Council (NMC) 14. Indian Medical Association (IMA), Dimapur Branch 15. Nagaland Private Doctors Association (NPDA) 16. Indian Dental Association, Nagaland State Branch (IDANSAB) 17. Indian Academy Pediatrics (IAP) 18. Kohima Obstetrics and Gynaecological Society of Nagaland (KOGSN) 19. Nagaland Health Doctor Pensioners Forum (NHDPF) 20. General Practitioners Association (CPA) 21. Nagaland Orthopaedic Society (NOS) 22. North East Regional Orthopaedic Surgeons Association (NEROSA) 23. Indian Medical Association-Manipur State Branch (IMA-MSB) 24. Indian Medical Association-Arunachal State Branch 25. Indian Medical Association-Assam State Branch 26. Indian Medical Association-HQ-New Delhi State Branch 27. Indian Human Rights Commission (IHRC) 28. Angami Public Organisation (APO) 29. Angamimiapfii Mechii Krotho (AMK) 30. Naga Hoho 31. Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) 32. Chakhroma Public Organization (CPO) 33. Chakhroma Gazetted Officers Krotho (CGOK) 34. Chakhromiapfü Mechü Krotho (CMK) 35. Chakhro Angami Kuda Union (CAKU) 36. Medziphema Village Council (MVC) 37. Medziphema Mechü Krotho (MMK) 38. Chakhroma Youth Organisation (CYO) 39. Chakhro Southern Angami Union Dimapur (CASUD) 40. Medziphema Town Mechü Krotho (MTMK) 41. Chumoukedima Circle Chakhroma Public Organization (CCCPO) 42. Chakhro Angami Youth Organisation (CAKYO) 43. Tenyimi Youth Organization Dimapur (TYOD) 44. Tenyimi Students’ Union Dimapur (TSUD) 45. East Dimapur Business Association (EDBA) 46. Dimapur District Citizens’ Forum (DDCF) 47. Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) 48. Dimapur Naga Students Union (DNSU) 49. NSCN (IM) 50. Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur (ASTD) 51. Old Boys Association of Sainik School (OBASS) 52. Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI) 53. Nagaland Medical Dealers Association (NMDA) My special thanks also to all my friends & well wishers who prayed for me & supported me through social media (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram etc).

Through this, I would also like to appreciate Dr. Jishnu and Dr. Biswa (Dibrugarh Medical College, Assam) who had extended help to our state by informing us on a sample report to our Quarantine Centre on emergency basis out of the way late night on 3rd April, 2020 I deeply regret my inability to thank each and every one of you individually, but it is my fervent prayer that God bless each one of you abundantly.

Lastly, I would like to share that this is not a CIVIL WAR (Law & Order situation) but it is a fight against a VIRUS (COVID-19). We have to win this Covid-19 war together.

I sincerely pray that such unfortunate incident should never happen to any Doctor or Medical staff or to anyone in future.

God Bless you all.

(Dr N. SEZO ROTE) Senior Medical Officer Under CMO/Office Dimapur Govt. of Nagaland K Y M C

6

international

Biden denies sexual assault charges

New York, May 2 (IANS): Breaking weeks of silence, former Vice President Joe Biden has denied festering allegations that he had sexually assaulted a former staffer.

“I’m saying unequivocally it never, never happened,” Biden said of the allegations made by Tara Reade, who was a staff assistant his senate office in 1993, when she alleged the assault took place.

The allegations against Biden, who is expected to be the Democratic presidential candidate, has put the party and the #MeToo movement in a bind because of their assertions in other cases, notably that of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, that women must be unequivocally be believed.

“Believing women means taking the woman’s claim seriously. But in the end, in every case, the truth is what matters. And in this case, the truth is, the claims are false,” he said.

Biden has received support from several women leaders of the Democratic Party.

Dismissing the accusation, Speaker Nancy Pelosi

Joe Biden

called Biden “a person of great integrity, great concern for the American people” and expressed support for him and his candidacy.

Kevin McCarthy, the Republican Party leader in the House of Representatives, accused Pelosi of being a “hypocrite” and said: “You can’t say one thing about every other time she has commented about any accusation and now say it is OK.” Re a d e a l l e g e d i n March that in 1993 Biden pushed her against a wall and put his fingers under her clothes and penetrated her and that when she resisted his advances, her assignments in his office were changed and she was made to resign.

Biden made his de-

nial in a programme on the MSNBC, a cable channel generally friendly to the Democrats, enabling him to avoid harsh cross-examination by the interviewer.

He said that he wanted the national archives to release any relevant material, but refused to allow the Delaware University to release documents from his archives saying that the did not contain personnel matter.

Biden has faced allegations in 2019 from several woman, including Reade, of improper physical contact, but not of assault.

He brushed off the allegations by saying, “I’m a tactile politician.”

“If I made anyone uncomfortable, I feel badly about that” but added, he

Anti-govt protests return to HK on Labour Day

A riot police points the pepper spray to journalists as pro-democracy activists gather outside a shopping mall during the Labour Day in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong, May 2 (IANS): Hong Kong faced a resurgence of anti-government protests in the wake of of an improving coronavirus situation, with a return to riot police pepper spraying demonstrators to disperse them in a shopping mall at the end of a largely peaceful Labour Day, it was

reported on Saturday.

An expected return to larger protest chaos on the streets did not materialise on Friday, and officers who had fanned out across the city only had to contend with small groups and individuals to enforce a ban against public gatherings, the South China Morning

Post (SCMP) newspaper said in a report.

However, protesters began to gather at the New Town Plaza at around 7 p.m .on Friday, singing “Glory to Hong Kong”, the anthem of the anti-government movement.

Police initially pushed them away and cordoned off the area, but had to resort to pepper spray later to disperse the crowd after small confrontations with protesters.

The appeal for flash mobs came after police denied ­unions permission to stage their traditional Labour Day rallies, citing risks to public health.

As an alternative, the opposition Confederation of Trade Unions (CTU) planned to set up more than 50 street booths around the city to promote ­workers’ rights.

said. “I’m not sorry for anything I have ever done.

I’ve never been disrespectful intentionally, to a man or a woman.”

But as he goes into the election cycle, he faces a more serious allegation.

President Donald Trump, who has been accused of sex assault by several women, sort of came to Biden’s defence on Thursday.

“It could be false accusations. I know all about false accusations. I’ve been falsely charged numerous times.”

But he immediately brought up the case of Kavanaugh which poses a challenge to the Democrats and the #MeToo movement.

“If you look at Brett Kavanaugh, there’s an outstanding man. He was falsely charged. What happened with him was an absolute disgrace to our country.”

When Kavanaugh was nominated to the Supreme Court in 2018, Christine Blasey Ford accused him of assaulting her, though not of actual rape, when they were teenagers in high school.

FDA allows emergency use of drug for coronavirus Washington, May 2 (AP): US regulators allowed emergency use of an experimental drug that appears to help some coronavirus patients recover faster.

It is the first drug shown to help fight COVID-19, which has killed more than 230,000 people worldwide.

The Food and Drug Administration acted after preliminary results from a government-sponsored study showed that Gilead Sciences’s remdesivir shortened the time to recovery by 31 per cent, or about four days on average, for hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

The study of 1,063 patients is the largest and most strict test of the drug and included a comparison group that received just usual care so remdesivir’s effects could be rigorously evaluated.

Those given the drug were able to leave the hospital in 11 days on average versus 15 days for the comparison group. The drug also might be reducing deaths, although that’s not certain from the partial results revealed so far.

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Venezuelan prison riot leaves dozens dead; 50 injured Caracas, May 2 (AP): A riot erupted at a prison in central Venezuela on Friday, killing at least 40 people and injuring 50 more, including a National Guard officer who was wounded by an explosion and the warden, who suffered a knife wound, authorities said.

The upheaval at the Llanos Penitentiary Center started with an inmate protest demanding that their relatives be allowed to deliver them food and then an armed confrontation broke out between inmates and guards, lawmaker María Beatriz Martínez told The Associated Press.

The National Guard officer was injured by a grenade explosion, said Martínez, who had access to an early report prepared by the town’s security forces. The prison is located in the city of Guanare, 450 kilometers (280 miles) south-west of the capital of Caracas.

Venezuela’s minister of penitentiary services, Iris Varela, confirmed the riot, telling the local newspaper Ultimas Noticias that a group of inmates attacked officers standing guard out-

Healthcare workers and police wait for the arrival of prisoners outside a hospital after a riot erupted inside a prison in Guanare, Venezuela.

side the prison.

The warden was injured by at least one inmate wielding a knife, Varela said.

A once-wealthy oil nation, Venezuela is gripped by a deepening political and economic crisis. Street violence is common in the nation that has had nearly 5 million residents flee in recent years as public services crumble.

Venezuela has roughly 30 prisons and 500 jails that can hold an estimated 110,000 inmates. Human rights officials say the prisons are violent and badly

overcrowded, with gangs that traffic weapons and drugs in control.

According to the human rights group Venezuelan Prison Observatory, the Guanare prison was built to hold 750 inmates but is jammed beyond capacity with 2,500 inmates.

A similar riot occurred a year ago in a nearby jail also in the state of Portuguese, where 29 inmates died at a police jail that housed several hundred detainees. Violence broke out when armed inmates objected to officers entering the jail.

Kim re-emerges after 20 days amid health rumours Seoul, May 2 (IANS): North Korean leader Kim Jong-un attended a fertilizer factory completion ceremony, state media reported on Saturday, his first public appearance after 20 days of absence that sparked rumours about his health.

North korea’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim cut the tape at the ceremony marking the completion of Sunchon Phosphatic Fertilizer Factory in Sunchon, north of Pyongyang, on Friday, reports the Seoul-based Yonhap News Agency.

Photos released

by KCNA showed Kim, dressed in a dark Mao suit, cutting the red ribbon during the ceremony and talking to accompanying officials with a smile on his face.

“All the participants broke into thunderous cheers of ‘hurrah!’ extending the greatest glory to the Supreme Leader who has brought about a new change in the development of Juche-based fertilizer industry and has led the grand revolutionary advance for strengthening self-supporting economy to a victory with his outstanding leadership,” KCNA said.

Juche is the concept of self-reliance.

“He looked round several places including raw material processing process, yellow phosphorus production process, ammonium phosphatic fertilizer production process, and packing process, being briefed about the production processes of the factory,” KCNA added.

Kim was also quoted as expressing “satisfaction

sports

People in Seoul, South Korea watch a television news broadcasting an image of Kim Jong Un.

about the wonderful creation” and “set forth the tasks and ways for developing our chemical industry in a correct orientation as required by the new century”.

Accompanying Kim were his sister Kim Yo-jong, Pak Pong-ju, vice chairman of the WKP’s Central Committee, Premier Kim

Jae-ryong and other senior officials, according to KCNA. No. 2 leader Choe Ryong-hae was not among the attendees.

This marked Kim’s first public appearance since April 11, when he presided over a Politburo meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party.

His absence from an annual event marking the

April 15 birth anniversary of his late grandfather and national founder, Kim Il-sung, sparked speculation he might be seriously ill, said the Yonhap News Agency report.

In a report last week, CNN had said that the US was looking into intelligence that Kim Jong-un was in “grave danger” after surgery.

Fanning the rumours further, North Korean media had not provided no report on photo on his public activity, though it carried articles on his routine day schedules such as sending diplomatic letters or sending gifts to honored citizens. South Korean officials repeatedly rejected the rumours, saying that no unusual movements have been found in North Korea with regard to his health.

India to step up battle for 2032 Olympics: Batra Can’t wait to go out and play: Rohit New Delhi, May 2 (Agencies): India will step up its battle to win the 2032 Olympic Games and other international events when the global coronavirus pandemic eases, its top sports leader Narinder Batra told AFP. Ten years after hosting the Commonwealth Games, the Indian Olympic Association president said his country had lessons to learn but would not be deterred.

“We are serious and definitely pitching for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games and the 2032 Olympics,” said Batra.

India has already written expressions of interest to the International Olympic Committee but faces reported competition from Thailand, Russia and Colombia for the 2026 event.

Narinder Batra

Queensland in Australia, Shanghai and a potential joint bid between Seoul and Pyongyang are also being touted for the 2032 Olympics.

However, the pandemic has halted all debate.

Batra, also head of the International Hockey Federation, said “documenta-

tion” has started for 2032 but work is now frozen.

A final decision may take until 2025.

“Now there is a team that visits the various venues and you keep talking to them and then they submit a report. It is a continuous process which I believe will see no activity until

Don’t want to leave Real Madrid: Marcelo

RIO DE JANEIRO, May 2 (Agencies): Veteran Brazilian left-back Marcelo said that he hopes to remain at Real Madrid next season amid reports linking him with a move to Juventus.

In an Instagram live session with Fabio Cannavaro, Marcelo said he has no plans to join former Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo at the Italian club.

“I don’t want to leave and I don’t think Real Madrid would let me go,” said Marcelo, who joined the Spanish

giants in January 2007.

“I have been very happy since I arrived with my family in Madrid. It’s been a long time and I have had an incredible journey. I don’t know if Juve are really interested and if they are that’s great. But people invent a lot of things.”

In an entertaining conversation with Cannavaro who played with Marcelo at Madrid for two seasons - the Rio de Janeiro native also spoke of his admiration for compatriot Roberto Carlos.

“He was my idol. Whenever I talk to him, I still get very nervous,” the 31-year-old said.

Marcelo gave a diplomatic response when asked if Cristiano Ronaldo is a better player than Lionel Messi, or vice-versa. “You can’t say who is better. I played with Cristiano for 10 years and the motivation he gives you on the field is unique, the way he lifts you. Messi can be stopped and then from nowhere he scores,” he added.

December,” India’s most influential sports leader said.

“This is not the time to talk with business houses or government about pitching for the Olympics. The first thing should be how we sort out this problem which has come into the world,” Batra added, referring to the virus.

Delhi’s hosting of the Commonwealth Games was marked by construction delays, failing infrastructure and accusations of financial mismanagement.

More recently, Delhi was stripped of the 2021 world boxing championships, with the global body accusing organisers of failing to pay a hosting fee on time.

Batra said he knew nothing of the boxing dis-

pute but insisted that the 2010 multi-sport event had made India think big and its growing economic clout means it has resources.

“I can say the biggest takeaway was that India is capable of hosting all big-ticket events whether it is Olympics or any other Games,” said Batra.

But he added that New Delhi did not capitalise enough on the 2010 Games by encouraging more young athletes.

“The Delhi event fell short on legacy values.

The legacy that you produce more athletes and you develop them never happened here and that is why tournaments shifted out of Delhi,” he said.

“The fact that such a big event happened here was not properly exploited.”

M u m b a i , M ay 2 (IANS): Prolific India opener Rohit Sharma is badly missing hitting the cricket ball and can’t wait to go out and start playing again once the lockdown ends amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In normal circumstances, Rohit would have been currently leading Mumbai Indians in the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League which now stands indefinitely postponed.

“I wish I had enough place to play indoor cricket, but unfortunately in Mumbai, the place is very secluded, and you have to stick to your apartment. We are not lucky as you guys where you have your own backyard to play,” Rohit said while speaking to former Australian pacer Brett Lee on Star Sports Cricket Connected show.

Rohit Sharma

“In Mumbai, it’s very expensive to get your own house where you have your own backyard. I live in an apartment and I am lucky to have a little balcony where I can run around and do some activities that my trainer has given me.”

“I am trying to follow whatever little I can. Hopefully, the gyms will open soon, and I can go there,” he added.

“But I am missing hit-

ting the ball, that’s for sure.

As you know, I like to hit big, so the space is not enough.

I just can’t wait to go out there and start hitting the ball,” Rohit, who recently turned 33, further said.

All sporting activities have been suspended since mid March following the coronavirus outbreak.

And the chances of cricketing activities resuming in the near future are highly grim.

Andy Murray backs ATP-WTA Tour merger

L o n d o n, M ay 2 (Agencies): Andy Murray has joined calls to merge the men’s and women’s tours, arguing that many of the game’s top players think it would be a positive move for tennis.

Talk of one unified tour, while not a new phenomenon, has resurfaced with Roger Federer also posing the question on Twitter in April and ex-British No 1 Greg Rusedski has thrown his weight behind such a move.

Andy Murray

Now three-times Grand Slam champion Murray has waded into the debate and thinks it is a conversation worth having.

“When you have a lot of the top male players now starting to discuss and talk about it, that’s definitely very promising,” Murray,

who has often voiced his support for gender equality, told CNN. “When these discussions happen it’s quite important not just to see this merger through a man’s eyes and to bring more women into the decision-making positions so that everyone’s voice gets heard,” added the twice Wimbledon champion.

While professional tennis is suspended entirely due to the coronavirus pandemic, contentiously the men’s

ATP Tour offers more prize money in a year than its WTA counterpart does.

But the proposals in themselves are not without controversy, dividing opinion among some of the game’s biggest stars.

Two-time Olympic gold medallist Murray admitted that some resistance was to be expected, recounting conversations he had with fellow players who were upset when the bigger tournaments started offering equal prize money.

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