25 Feb 2023

Zelenskyy pledges push for victory on war anniv

KPC flays indifferent attitude of State BJP

DIMAPUR, FEB 24 (NPN): Kohima Press Club (KPC) has expressed deep concern over the indifferent attitude of BJP toward journalists.

In a statement, KPC reminded that the club on February 18 had written to the top brass of State BJP, as well as party’s national spokesperson and incharge of Nagaland Nalin S Kohli over the “uncouth behaviour and bullying of journalists” by State BJP media convenor, but regretted that the party had failed to respond to date.

This is it!

“Since he has been a member of various mainland political parties it’s not difficult to switch caps.”

SA reach maiden Women’s T20 WC final SPORTS,

Modi’s peace, progress & prosperity mantra

gion, including Nagaland, was now punishing the party.

PHQ directs officers to use force against troublemakers

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, FEB 24

(NPN): P rime Minister Narendra Modi maintained that the BJP was focussed on three ‘Ps’ mantra for Nagaland-- Peace, Progress and Prosperity and most importantly, assured that strict action will be taken against those engaged in extortion activities in Nagaland.

The prime minister spelt out BJP’s core objectives for Nagaland while addressing a joint rally of the BJP-NDPP alliance at a jam-packed Agri Expo ground, Chümoukedima on Friday. Those present at the rally included chief minister Neiphiu Rio, deputy CM Y. Patton, all five NDPP-BJP candidates from Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland districts, Central and State BJP leaders and senior NDPP officials.

“Permanent peace and progress in Nagaland is the basis of BJP’s politics. After March 2 (new government formation) strict action would be taken against

However, Modi asserted that BJP considered the eight States of the region as “Ashtalakshmi” (eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi) and was working for its peace and development.

Modi recalled how a former Congress Prime Minister (Rajiv Gandhi) had once stated that when the Centre released Re 1, only 15 paise reached the people. But in the case of Nagaland, he alleged that even that 15 paise did note reach the people under Congress rule.

elect our representatives,”

Modi appealed.

Also addressing the gathering, chief minister Neiphiu Rio stated that the Prime Minister’s visit to State and rallying for NDPP-BJP candidates was an icing on the cake for the alliance. He also expressed his gratefulness to Modi for giving special attention to Nagaland. “Our country is privileged to have a leader like Modi,” he remarked.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, FEB 24 (NPN):

He claimed that BJP’s mantra for Nagaland (Peace, Progress and Prosperity) was the reason why people’s trust in the party was rising. Modi expressed happiness at the popularity of NDPPBJP alliance in the State, noting that the support he saw in Nagaland for the alliance was because both the parties were working day and night for the progress of Nagaland.

While Modi did not speak on the vexed Naga political issue, he assured that

the NDA government was also striving to bring permanent peace in the State so that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 could be completely lifted.

Attacks Cong: Modi made a hard-hitting attack on Congress by accusing the grand old party of remotecontrolling Nagaland from Delhi and using the North Eastern states like an ATM for misusing funds meant for development of the region.

He alleged that corrupt Congress leaders would misuse the public fund for which, he claimed the re-

However, under BJP, Modi said with the help of technology, it has curbed corruption in the Northeast and that money was now directly reaching bank accounts of the people without cuts of commission. Modi also pointed that earlier even ration card holders had to pay for ration, while many did not even get full ration.

He reminded the gathering that he had personally visited the region numerous times, whileUnion ministers kept coming to the region on regular basis.

“Help me to serve the people of Nagaland better and fulfil my promises. It will be possible only if you

Rio also spoke on how the Central government had changed its focus from “Look East” to “Act East” and highlighted the various developmental initiatives of the coalition government. He also pointed out how India had become one of the fastest growing economies in the world under Modi’s leadership. He expressed the hope that the Naga political issue would be resolved under his leadership.

In his speech, deputy chief minister Y Patton informed the gathering that Modi’s visit to Nagaland was 57thto the Northeast in the past nine years, while Manmohan Singh, who was Prime Minister for 10 years, had not visited the State even once.

With less than 72 hours to go for the Assembly election scheduled on February 27 and in view of the continued violence in some districts, especially in Wokha and Mokokchung, State Police Headquarters (PHQ) has directed all officers on ground across the State to deploy forces and take action against troublemakers to ensure peace.

held with all 305 companies of security forces and officers of all districts on Friday and, after assessment of the ground situation and with less than 72 hours to go for the polls, the PHQ had directed them not to hesitate to use force wherever required to ensure that peace was maintained at any cost. He said the PHQ had given clear instruction to the police and paramilitary forces not wait for any direction or written warrant and take suo moto action

Prohibitory orders clamped in Dhansaripar sub-division those engaged in extortion,” he promised.

Speaking to Nagaland Post at his office chamber here on Friday, additional director general of police (ADGP) law and order Sandeep Tamgadge claimed that PHQ was monitoring the entire situation very closely and assured that director general of police (DGP) was fully committed to ensure that the election was conducted peacefully.

He mentioned that a video conference (VC) was

DIMAPUR, FEB 24 (NPN): Taking note of reported incidents around Dhansaripar sub-division, which would have posed breach of law and order in the sub-division, the commissioner of police (CP) Dimapur Kevithuto Sophie has promulgated Section 144 Cr. PC in the Dhansaripar sub-division with effect from 5pm of February 25, 2023 till 5am of February 27, 2023 and would resume from 6pm of February 27, 2023 and remain enforced until further order.

Friendly fists beneath alliance: Rio and Modi at the rally. (BJP4India)

New Govt will act tough against those involved in extortion

‘‘

Sandeep Tamgadge (NP)

Fire razes shops in Komima

Correspondent

KOHIMA, FEB 24 (NPN): A fire broke out at a commercial structure destroying around 4 shops near BSNL office, here on Friday night.

According to Additional SP PRO, Kohima, the fire started sometime around 6:40 to 7 pm at one of the shops in the CGI sheeted structure, however, he informed that the fire was successfully subdued by fire tenders.

The structure houses shops selling fresh fish, poultry and used clothes were completely razed to the ground. An Alto parked near the structure was also burnt by the fire from the incident. PRO clarified that the fire outbreak was a tragic incident and was not related to any other issue.

No one was injured in the incident while property destroyed by the fire could not be ascertained during the time of filing of this report.

YEWT condemns series of bomb blast in Wokha

DIMAPUR: Yikhum

Ekhung Wokha Town (YEWT), has condemned the series of bomb blasts at the residence of its bonafide members, residing in Wokha Town by unknown miscreants.

A press release by YEWT chairman Chichabemo Kikon informed that, the blast occurred on the night of February 16 at Chubathung Odyuo’s residence and on February 21 at Daniel Kithan’s residence.

The YEWT urged the law enforcing agency to take control of the situation and necessary measures be taken up for ensuring safety to the public and also appealed to all to abstain from such kind of heinous act for peaceful co-existence.

More organisations flay murder at Chungtia

DIMAPUR: More organisations like Ao Senden, Ongpangkong Mungdang, Nagaland Law Students’ Federation (NLSF), Association of Mechanical Engineers, Nagaland (AMEN), Kohima Science College, Jotsoma (KSCJ) 2007 batch, Sabangya Compound Lanur Telongjem (SCLT) have vehemently condemned the brutal murder of Imkongchiba Kichu on February 22, who hailed from Chungtia village of Mokokchung district.

Ao Senden: In a press release, Ao Senden president, Chubawati Longchar and general secretary, Imtipokyim, stated that the abduction and merciless murder was alien to the Ao culture and has painted a grim picture shown to others adding that a true blooded Ao feels ashamed of such a heinous crime being committed. Ao Senden has appealed the concerned authorities to take prompt action by arresting those person(s) involved and award befitting punishment as per law. The Ao Senden further appealed all citizens to ensure that the electoral process passes off peacefully without any incident in the land.

Ongpangkong Mungdang: Ongpangkong Mungdang in its condemnation said that the act was alien practice which was a sacrilege as per the Ao customary law and called upon the law enforcement agencies to do their at the earliest award befitting punishment. The Mungdang further cautioned that for the ensuing assembly election any kind of threat or intimidation from any groups or organizations suppressing the rights of the electorate will be seriously viewed and called upon the council members and its citizens under Ongpangkong range to remain united to check any unscrupulous activities.

NLSF: Nagaland

Law Students’ Federation (NLSF) has expressed shock that the life of a youthful member was nibbed in the bud by the evil action of the criminals that in a day light which is understandably a premeditated murder by the homiciders. It stated that such act of violence was not the answer even against anybody and it was purely a purging which was undesirable for a society like ours. In a condemnation, NLSF through its media cell urged the State government to apprehend the perpetrators and be brought to justice immediately. The NLSF conveyed condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families who lost a precious life in the tragedy and dedicate their prayer for peace and solace during this unrest time.

AMEN: Association of Mechanical Engineers, Nagaland (AMEN) has vehemently condemned the barbaric inhuman act committed towards its fellow brother late Imkongchiba

Cadets bring laurels to Sainik School Punglwa

DIMAPUR: Three passed-out cadets from Sainik School Punglwa namely Tapi Moda, Obed Newmai and Hinoto Kakishe Yepthomi have brought laurels for the school by joining the armed forces in various capacities.

A press release issued by Sainik School Punglwa have expressed their excitement to have three of its passed-out cadets for achieving the aim of Sainik School to send its cadets to the Armed Forces.

Cadet Tapi Moda joined the officers’ training academy, Chennai through NCC Special Entry Scheme in October 2022 while cadet Obed Newmai, now a doctor, has joined the Indian Air Force as flight lieutenant on January 31 as a medical

officer.

Cadet Hinoto Kakishe Yepthomi has also qualified and cleared Services Selection Board for SSC TECH entry and would be joining OTA Chennai in the first week of April 2023.

Besides this, 28 cadets are undergoing Engineering at premier institutions including at IITs and NITs

and six cadets are pursuing Medicine. “There are number of other cadets who are doing exceedingly well in other walks of life”, the release said.

It stated that their success has won laurels to Sainik School Punglwa and added another feather in the cap of the school.

Principal SSPN, Gp Capt RK Yadav, has con-

veyed congratulations to the former cadets, their parents and the teachers for moulding their future. He also conveyed his gratitude to the State Government for providing support and cooperation in smooth functioning of Sainik School Punglwa, Nagaland and achieving its aim of “We Learn, We Serve”.

Kichu of Chungtia village.

In a condemnation note, president AMEN, Er. Kolou Khape and general secretary, Er. Penglang P have strongly appealed the concerned authorities to spare no effort in bringing justice. Amen further extended its condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family.

Kohima Science College, Jotsoma (KSCJ) 2007

batch: The friends and batchmates of late Imkongchiba Kichu, from the graduating class of 2007 Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, while condemning the brutal killing of its dear friend, an engineer by profession with a law degree and a former president of the Chungtia Students’ Union (CSU). In a condemnation note, class of 2007 KSCJ expressed shock and was outraged by this heart-wrenchingly barbaric and inhumane act

that has deprived the society of a leader and a champion working fervently towards equal rights and opportunities for the people.

They described late Imkongchiba Kichu, as fine gentleman, humble and upright, kind-hearted and honest, fun-loving person by nature who could instantly connect with anyone.

Class of 2007 Kohima Science College, Jotsoma called upon the concerned authorities to ensure prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigation into this brutal murder that put out the flame of a promising young figure. It said that such acts of cowardice have no place in the society and demanded that the investigation be taken up on fasttrack as a top priority. It also offered condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones and praye d that the

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

And we know that all things work together for good, to those who love God, to those whom are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

Lord give peace, blessings and comfort to the family during this time of grief.

SCLT: Sabangya Compound Lanur Telongjem (SCLT) while condemning the abduction and gruesome murder stated that the atrocity of the miscreants stand as its own condemnation and the organization urged every right thinking citizen to condemn such heinous act.

In a press release, SCLT president, Molungtoshi Longchar and general secretary, Lentinaro appealed the law enforcement authorities to leave no stone unturned in convicting the perpetrators and serve justice promptly. SCLT further offered condolences to the families and relatives of the deceased as they keep them in their thoughts and prayers.

IN MEMORIAM

17th DEATH ANNIVERSARY of our beloved LATE ER. N. LHOKIYE ZHIMO 25th Feb. 2023

Seventeen years of separation, But your memories are still an inspiration. Seventeen years out of sight, But still you seem to be beside. Memories you left behind, Are still a solace to the mind. To this day you're remembered, You'll always be treasured.

-Loving Wife Er. Nitoli and Children

10th Death a nniversary

Late HUKATO T YEPTHOMI

– Died on 17.02.2023

Born on 21.07.1944

We, the family of Late HUKATO T YEPTHOMI would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported us at the demise of our loving father Late HUKATO T YEPTHOMI on 17.02.2023. Words aren’t enough to express our gratitude to everyone who had supported us spiritually, financially and physically but it’s our prayer that the Good LORD bless you all.

Our sincere gratitude to:

1. Shri Ikuto G Zhimo, NDPP Candidate, 34 A/C Aghunato

2. Shri Hukiye Tissica, LJP Candidate, 34 A/C Aghunato

3. Shri Ahovi Zhimomi, Vice President NDPP, Nagaland

4. Shri Toshiho K Yeptho, Superintendent of Excise and Prohibition, Dimapur

5. Dr. Kipito Awomi, CHC Aghunato

6. Dr. Rica Achumi, CHC Aghunato

7. Aghunato Town Baptist Church

8. Aghunato Town Baptist Church (B)

9. A.T.B.C. (B) T. F

10. Yimkhiung Baptist Church

11. Ghokishe Baptist Church

12. Thazuvi Baptist Church

13. Kiyezhe Baptist Church

14. Nikiye Baptist Church

15. Khehoi Baptist Church

16. K. S. D. C. L. F

17. Aquba Baptist Church

18. A. T. C. L. F

19. Education Staff, Aghunato

20. (CHC) Community Health Care, Aghunato

21. Zion Hospital, Dimapur

22. Referral Hospital, Dimapur

23. Hayat Hospital, Guwahati

We entrust you

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him”. Romans 8:28

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY of Late ZUCHUMO KITHAN

Died on 25-02-2022

A year has passed since you left for your heavenly abode. But you are fondly remembered and deeply missed. Your love and guidance will always remain rooted in our lives. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

K-378/23

Loving wife, childnren & loved ones

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Late REV. SOSANGMEREN (10.05.1942 – 25.02.2013)

Ten years have passed since the Lord called you home on this day, but your legacy of serving our Lord is still lingering in our memories and hearts.

Today, we celebrate and reminiscence the grace of God that you have propagated till you left us to be with the Lord.

Loving Family Members

Born on 24/07/1959

Died on 21/02/2023

We, the bereaved family of Late R Hilole Thyug, W/o Mr. Riga Thyug would like to express our deep appreciation to every individuals, friends, neighbours, churches who stood and supported us physically, financially and spiritually during her prolonged illness till her demise. Your deeds helped us and made our loss more bearable.

We convey our special gratitude to:

1. Rengma Baptist Church Kohima

2. Women Department, RBC Kohima

3. New Terogvunyu Baptist Church

4. New Terogvunyu Women Department

5. New Terogvunyu Village Council

6. Terogvunyu Baptist Church

7. Henbenji Baptist Church

8. Rengma Baptist Church Sovima

9. Terogvunyu Chüpwe (Kohima, Dimapur, Tseminyu)

10. Terogvunyu Chüpwe Tenunyu Kehun

11. Kasha Daho Community

12. Phenshunyu Village Council

13. Kashanyishin Village Council

14. Nyunrhun Logwa New Terogvunyu

15. Khingmiza Welfare

16. Sainik School Punglwa Fellowship and staff

17. Different Churches and Organisations

We deeply regret our inability to acknowledge each and everyone individually but it is our humble prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

K-380/23

Loving husband, children, grandchildren, in-laws and family members

A view of fire that razed down shops to inferno. (NP)

Tapi Moda Obed Newmai Hinoto Kakishe Yepthomi

Q.: Are Nagaland MPs and MLAs unwilling to raise issue of atrocities on Christians with the Centre?

Congress responds to Modi’s attack

Staf f Reporter

DIMAPUR, FEB 24

(NPN): In a swift reaction to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech Friday at the NDPP-BJP rally at Agri Expo that previous Congress government at the Centre used North East region as an ATM (to siphon money); Congress countered by accusing BJP of acting as ATM for NDPP government and state chief minister Neiphiu Rio.

NEXT POLL

Q: Do public really believe that political parties will fulfil their manifestos?

Addressing a press conference at Congress Bhavan here on Friday, AICC media coordinator and Supreme Court advocate Mahima Singh alleged that BJP first offered itself as ATM to the regional parties and then begins the “blackmail business”. She cited the Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Goa, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir as just few examples.

Mahima claimed that “now, CM Rio has been held hostage by the BJP, questioned by the ED for hours at the behest of BJP.” She said that Nagaland’s own MP had raised the question in Lok Sabha regarding this ATM business. Further, on Modi

Kohima police traffic advisory Feb 26 & 27

DIMAPUR: Kohima Police has issued traffic advisory for February 26 and 27 where polling teams, for all the constituencies of Kohima district, would be dispatched from IG Stadium and to the Dispatch and Receiving Centre at DC’s office.

In order to ensure smooth conduct of the entire exercise, the following traffic plan will be in place for the two days. Locations are declared as “No Parking Zones”-- TCP Gate to Razhu point via Old NST; Razhu point to TCP Gate via D– Block and Phoolbari; Phoolbari Y Junction to DC office and 1st AR Junction. All obstructing vehicles will be towed and charges to be recovered from the owner. All down vehicles will be diverted from TCP Gate. Down route will be via Naga Hospital Kohima Jn, New Market road, KOHIMAS Hospital, Naga Bazaar Road, Census point and Teenpati area. Vehicles going up will be allowed to take normal route via Razhu point, D Block, Phoolbari and TCP Gate. “No Entry” for vehicles proceeding from Census Point via Naga Bazaar Road. Kohima Police further sought co-operation from all citizens to ensure smooth conduct of the general elections 2023.

KPC flays indifferent attitude of State BJP

Mahima Singh (NP)

accusing the Congress of remote controlling Nagaland, Mahima said remote control was BJP’s tool to switch democracy to autocracy and that the saffron party was on a party eradication spree. She pointed out that NPP, was BJP’s friend earlier but now dumped after sucking away the nectar. Mahima said the Nagaland was next in line with regard to NDPP. Mahima said it was known to all who remote controlled the state of Meghalaya and also used NPP as a pedestal to saffronise the state. “Now, the BJP is gearing up to gain full control over Nagaland,” she said. Mahima also recalled that a host of BJP leaders have been visiting Nagaland during the last ten days and making tall claims and “even taller allegations” against the

Congress. However, she said Nagas have still not received any response yet from the BJP’s ‘Election for solution’ promise made in last election in 2018. She maintained that BJP did not even make the slightest mention of Naga political solution in its current manifesto. Yet BJP leaders can face the public and are allowed to go without being questioned, Mahima said. She said it was the Congress that fulfilled the demand that Naga talks be held at the highest level. She said Dr. Manmohan Singh’s government was on the brink of resolving the issue, but BJP came to power and that since then, the ambiguity had consistently been intensified.

Further, she said Congress party had categorically raised questions on BJP’s intent on the Christians of Nagaland and on their views of Nagaland’s 17 tribes with respect to Uniform Civil Code. However, instead of clarification, she said BJP only responded with allegations. The AICC functionary therefore urged upon the Nagas that this (election) was the opportunity to redefine their fate and not link

to those who were here to condemn the unique identity of Nagas and to engulf it in the majority religion.

NPCC reacts: Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has reacted to the resignation of its president K Therie’s chief agent Kikhevi Yepthomi.

Addressing a press conference at Congress Bhavan, Dimapur on Friday, NPCC communications department chairperson Wezote Kreo, said that Yepthomi had been opposing BJP ideology for two decades, but whatever caused his action would be best known to him.

He said that people who have left the party have no principle in politics and “likely to change their party” when there is change of government at the Centre.

Kikhevi clarifies: Former chief agent of K Therie Kikhevi Yepthomi on Thursday clarified that he resigned from the party due to lack of trust and coordination between him and K Therie.

He also refuted allegations that he was bribed to join BJP and termed it as rumours which was aimed at tarnishing his image.

(From p-1) KPC said that the media convenor had resorted to “unwarranted aggression and unprofessional behaviour” on February 18 when three journalists interacting with her in “Press 4 BJP Nagaland” WhatsApp group drew her attention to a piece of misinformation regarding the visit of a Union minister to Nagaland.

KPC said that at least two leading local newspapers in Nagaland that used the communiqué from the State BJP media cell ended up publishing factually inaccurate news.

It said that when the convenor displayed ignorance about the misinformation, one of the journalists advised the official to stay updated about the party’s activities and ensure that all press statements were cross checked by the media cell.

To this, the officials responded with “extreme aggression and called the journalists engaged in the conversation to fight,” KPC stated.

Concerned over the development, the press club said it wrote to the

Modi’s peace, progress & prosperity mantra

State BJP leadership seeking clarification on the behaviour of the party functionary, and attached screenshots of the conversation to the party leaders.

Despite this, KPC said that the BJP media convenor launched an “unrelenting personal attack, singling out one particular journalist” even the following day, amplifying a false narrative to the point of even saying the journalist was seeking limelight at her expense as was is election time.

Instead of accepting the mistake, the Press Club said that the State BJP media convenor continued online harassment in an attempt to malign the character of the journalist concerned.

According to KPC, the state BJP leadership’s silence on the issue was an indication that the party condoned such unprofessional and loutish behaviour of its party functionaries while dealing with members of the Fourth Estate.

It also showed that the BJP was apparently indifferent to the dissemination of wrong information

about its activities by its own media cell, it added.

The statement mentioned that members of KPC who were irked by BJP’s indifference had so far maintained professional dignity, not seeking to take advantage of the situation and continued reporting the party’s political activities.

Despite this, KPC said the Nagaland BJP, including the national spokesperson, seemed highly reluctant to address the wrongdoing of its functionary, which implied that the national party had no regard for the media fraternity of Nagaland.

While condemning the “cyber bullying” of journalists by State BJP media cell convener, KPC demanded that latter publicly apologised to the press fraternity.

If otherwise the BJP felt that the behaviour of its media cell convenor was justified, KPC asked the party to make public its response, claiming that it could provide evidence of bullying by making public screenshots of the convenor’s tirade on WhatsApp groups.

Rs.1.08 cr worth seizures on Feb 23

DIMAPUR: The office of the chief electoral officer (CEO) Nagaland has informed that the monetary value of the progressive seizure made by various enforcement agencies both central and state on February 23, 2023 was worth Rs. 1,08,87,880.

CEO office Nagaland through its media cell stated that the seizures included cash Rs.191200, liquor 939.29 litre worth Rs. 475930, drugs/narcotics worth Rs. 10047500, freebies and other items worth Rs.173250.

CEO office also stated that monetary value of the progressive seizure made by various enforcement agencies both central and state from the date of announcement of general election to Nagaland Legislative Assembly 2023 till February 21, 2023 was Rs.48,77,34,159.

Details of the various items seized include cash Rs. 56993075, IMLF (86037.019 litre) Rs. 49693092, drugs/ narcotics Rs. 328642410, freebies/other items Rs. 52403917 and precious metals (Silver-0.02332 kgs) Rs. 1665.

(From p-1)

He referred to Modi’s statement “When the Northeast is developed, entire country is developed”, and appealed to voters of Dimapur and Ghaspanui to cast their votes for BJP and NDPP candidates.

He reiterated that the NDPP-BJP alliance did not need any political party to form the next government, and assured good and stable governance for peace and development in the State.

Meanwhile, in his brief address, BJP national spokesperson Nalin Kohli clarified that the rumours being spread that Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Nationalist Congress Party or Republican Party of India (Athawale) were in alliance with BJP in the State were not correct, and that the BJP-NDPP candidates were joint candidates. He asserted that the alliance did not need these parties to form the next government.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by NDPP general secretary Abu Metha, invocation was offered by Rev Dr Pughoto and welcome address delivered by PHE minister and BJP candidate for 4 Ghaspani II constituency Jacob Zhimomi.

Short speeches were also delivered by BJP candidate for 1 Dimapur I constituency Tovihoto Ayemi, 2 Dimapur II NDPP candidate Moatoshi Longkumer, 3 Dimapur III NDPP candidate Hekani Jakhalu and NDPP candidate for 5 Ghaspani II Zhaleo Rio.

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM MODI’S JOINT RALLY

Some of the key takeaways of Prime Minister Modi’s joint rally, highlighted some of the initiatives taken up by the NDA-led Central government.

Improved connectivity under BJP: National highway network in Nagaland has almost doubled as compared to the year 2014, while Nagaland is to be connected to Myanmar. Eight flights routes to other Northeastern States under the UDAN scheme have started. Nagaland got its second railway station after 100 years and that railway connectivity to Kohima was also being worked upon.

No discrimination on the basis of region or religion: Modi said the BJP-led government are not biased in favour of any region or religion and want peace and prosperity for all.

The government distributed the Covid vaccine without any discrimination. NDA infrastructure and welfare schemes was for all under the slogan “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas or Sabka Prayas”. He said BJP was focused on the poor, tribals, and women. 55,000 houses have been allocated for the poor of Nagaland and in the last three and half years, 3,50,000 households have got water connections During Congress’ rule, the grant released for Nagaland was around Rs. 2,000 crore while BJP government has more than doubled the amount, allocating a budget of around Rs 5,000 crore. Tourism, technology, sports & startups: He said that Central government was helping the youth in tourism, technology, sports, and

PHQ directs officers to use force against troublemakers

(From p-1) as per law wherever any violence took place in their presence.

He stated the directive was given by DGP in presence of inspector general (IG) of CRPF, Manipur and Nagaland, who was the overall force coordinator for deployment of the Central force in Nagaland.

Tamgadge said he stressed during the VC that any situation/ incident that had the potential to escalate should be nipped at the bud and that forces be deployed to ensure that a sense of peace prevailed in the society.

He mentioned that the directive would come into with effect from Friday evening and that PHQ had also directed that the forces carry out area domination day and night till the poll was over.

He revealed that 305 paramilitary companies from different organizations like CRPF, BSF, CISF, SSB, RPF, etc, were deployed in the State, along with police forces from other States like Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, UP, Punjab, Jharkhand, Mizoram, Rajasthan, Sikkim, etc.

He disclosed that Wokha, Mokokchung and Zunheboto districts had the highest deployment of security forces with 29 companies of

Central armed police forces (CAPF), three companies of Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) and six Indian Reserve (IR) companies in Wokha, 30 CAPF companies, three NAP and three IR companies in Mokokhung and 32 CAPF, three NAP and six IR companies in Zunheboto. He revealed that additional protective gears were provided to the forces deployed in Wokha district and claimed that all efforts were being made to keep the situation under control.

Admitting that there were violent incidents in 37 and 38 Wokha Assembly constituencies (AC), he however remarked that with deployment of adequate number of forces, there should not be any fear.

Rs. 48 cr worth items seized till date: The ADGP stated that to ensure free, fair and inducement-free election, a lot of focus had been given on seizures. He revealed that the current quantum of seizure was 11-12 times more than during the previous election in 2018 when the total value of seizure was Rs 4.50 lakh, which had jumped to over Rs 48 crore.

He mentioned that from day one after Model Code of Conduct came into effect, the PHQ was monitoring the performances of police

stations and officers in-charge (OCs) on a day-to-day basis on number of people taken into custody, deposit of arms, traffic offences, liquor seized and the mechanism of finding out seizures and preventive measures taken.

Tamgadge mentioned that all district and police administrations were trying to engage with civil society and village councils for peaceful conduct of the poll as, with the presence of outside forces, excess use of force could only further escalate any situation.

He stressed that a right-thinking society had to come out openly against violence as elections would be over in a week and the people would have to coexist.

He said civil society had to intervene as use of force by security forces for maintenance of peace was only a temporary measure.

No arrest yet on Chungtia incident: Further, Tamgadge informed that no arrest had been made so far with regard to the murder of Imkongchiba Kichu of Chungtia village.

He said that a Special Investigation Team headed by additional superintendent of police Mokokchung has been set up and investigation was

startups. Software technology park in Kohima was a big initiative.

Keeping in mind Nagaland’s potential in sports and making India as world’s sports power, he said Khelo India state center of excellency was setup in Nagaland to provide basic facilities for wrestling, archery and boxing. He claimed that he felt proud to remember Dr T Ao and stressed harnessing State’s sport potential. PM-DevINE: Earlier the policy was to divide North East, but NDA government changed it to “Divine Governance model” and came up with a special scheme called PM-DevINE for the development of North East. He also said that due to NDA government’s concern, border disputes were getting resolved swiftly in the region.

on. He assured that the case would be brought to a logical conclusion and all persons behind the killing and abduction would be brought to justice.

Referring to the February 21 incident where some people were caught with money in Wokha, he said they were apprehended by the flying squad and a non-cognisable case had been registered. He said Wokha OC had taken up the issue with judicial magistrate and a preliminary inquiry had been initiated.

He said the person arrested was a government servant, pointing out that it was not only a violation of Election Commission directive, but also misconduct of service rules, adding that legal proceedings had been initiated. Altogether 28 cases had been registered until February 23, he added.

Tamgadge warned that the police would take action against anyone indulging in any illegal activity or violence at any place without any fear or favour and in a professional manner. He said all forces had been directed to ensure that peace was maintained so that people could come out and exercise their franchise.

Prohibitory orders clamped in Dhansaripar sub-division

(From p-1)

In an order, commissioner of police (CP)

Dimapur Kevithuto Sophie has prohibited assembly of not more than five persons, carrying lethal weapons and firearms including lathis, dagger/ machete, sticks, spears, catapults or any other dangerous articles in the Dhansaripar sub-division.

CP stated that the prohibitory order has been clamped to preserve peace, prevent breach of law and order and ensure free and fair conduct of election process.

On the day of polling, CP stated that a window period has been relaxed to facilitate the voters to part take in the electoral process.

Prime Minister Modi with BJP & NDPP candidates along with Rio, Patton and others (R) Section of the crowd at the venue on Friday. (NP)

M’laya should be free from dynastic politics: PM

Correspondent

SHILLONG, FEB 24:

Prime Minister Narendra

Modi on Friday held a massive road show here in this mountainous state capital of Meghalaya, wooing voters to install a BJP-led government as the saffron party further intensified its poll campaign to be in power in the state.

Modi started his roadshow from State central library premises upto Khyndai Lad in downtown Shillong where he addressed an election rally after paying floral tributes to three freedom fighters of Meghalaya, U Tirot Sing, U Kiang Nangbah and Pa Togan.

A huge crowd of people were seen standing on both sides of the road while the Prime Minister was also seen waving to the crowd by the road, even as BJP supporters chanted ‘Modi-Modi’ in excitement as the PM’s convoy passed through the streets of Shillong.

Wooing voters of Meghalaya to vote in favour of BJP, Prime Minister said, “All along my road show in this beautiful city today,

I have seen one this very clearly and this is Meghalaya wants BJP. So, let BJP rule you here so that I am in an advantageous position to serve the people of Meghalaya better from New Delhi.”

Without taking the name of the ruling National People’s Party and the Congress party, Modi said, some family-based

political parties have been using Meghalaya and all other states of Northeast as ATMs to exploit the region’s resources.

“Meghalaya should become free from dynastic politics. Not only in Delhi but in Meghalaya too the family parties have converted Meghalaya into an ATM to fill their coffers. This is the reason why people of

Assam to start intake of students in NMC

the Garo Hills on Thursday, the Chief Minister said: “There is no point in supporting TMC or any other party. The NPP is set to form the government. Do not waste your vote supporting other parties.

SHILLONG, FEB 24

(IANS): Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma asserted that supporting the Trinamool Congress in the upcoming election equals to wasting the vote as the party will never come to power in the state.

He also termed party leader Mukul Sangma a “dictatorial person” and accused him of being involved in “killing” innocent citizens.

Addressing an election rally at Dadenggre in

“Mukul Sangma may have joined TMC, but he is the same person, who has killed innocent civilians while in power. Garo Hills will never forget the incident, where nine lives were lost.”

Conrad Sangma also tried to label Trinamool Congress as an “outsider” party and said” “Mukul Sangma left Congress, as he thought there was no future in the Congress party, but he failed to calculate that the people of Garo Hills will never accept a party that is from outside when they have the option to choose a party from its own state.”

GUWAHATI, FEB 24 (IANS): Assam has received a letter of intent from the National Medical Commission (NMC) for an intake of 100 MBBS students for the newly-built Nagaon Medical College, officials said on Friday.

The Kokrajhar Medical College also received the Commission’s nod last month for the intake of students. Expressing pleasure on this decision, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma tweeted: “A shot in the arm! The Letter of Intent issued by National Medical Commission to Nagaon Medical College for 100 MBBS seats will boost to our efforts to improve healthcare.

“It has become the State’s 11th medical college to receive Letter of Intent and 2nd this year after Kokrajhar Medical College.”

IllegalmigrantsinIndo-Myanmararea tobecheckedwithbiometrics:Biren

Correspondent

IMPHAL, FEB 24: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh on Friday called for sincerity on the part of the indigenous people of the state to check migrant influx.

“We should be sincere. Let’s not harbor illegal immigrants. Please stop propaganda with a communal agenda,” he told the house in the ongoing budget session of Manipur Assembly.

The chief minister alleged that some vested interested persons among the leaders of different indigenous communities were trying to communalize the state government’s move to check illegal immigrants from settling in the state, particularly in remote hill areas.

Without pointing out directly, the chief minister said that illegal immigrants were being given shelters in remote hill areas of the state.

He said that the government has the information on setting up of new villages by illegal immigrants in the thick forest areas in Sajik Tampak in Chandel district bordering Myanmar.

“I got the information.

I got the photographs. Villages are being set up in the thick jungle of Sajik Tampak. It has also been seen during satellite mapping ,” Singh said.

“If a community harbors immigrants in its own interest, what will be the future of the indigenous people of the land? Let’s also think for the state too,” he said.

The chief minister was reacting to an alleged attempt to communalize the state government’s recent eviction drive in the reserved forest areas in Churachandpur district through social media platforms.

Recently, a new village set up in the reserved forest area of the district was evicted by the district administration.

The village was not only set up illegally but also most of the settlers were immigrants who illegally entered into the state, the chief minister clarified.

Singh said that the state government was working hard to check the influx of illegal immigrants in the interest of the indigenous people of the state by intensifying vigils along the porous Indo-Myanmar border.

Meghalaya and the entire Northeast now want BJP to rule them so that the interests of development and peace get priority over interests of certain families,” the senior BJP leader said.

“I am confident in the love and blessings that ‘Meghalaya Maange BJP Sarkar’. BJP government for Meghalaya means fast pace development, the end

of blockade and violence, pucca houses for all and employment opportunities for youth,” Modi exuded confidence.

Underscoring that Meghalaya needs a ‘People-First’ govt instead of a ‘Family-First’ government, the Prime Minister said, “The people of Meghalaya have been divided into small issues and their priorities ignored. This kind of politics has damaged the interest of the youth. Now Meghalaya wants a people’s first instead of a family government.”

Praising the natural beauty, vibrancy, liveliness, creativity, wonderful ethnicity of Meghalaya and its people, Modi assured that the love and blessing showered by the people of Meghalaya would be reciprocated by him through rapid economic development of the state.

“India has scaled a new high in the last nine years and Meghalaya has made strong contribution towards it. We want the state to make much bigger contribution by installing a BJP government in the state,” the Prime Minister said.

Meghalaya: BJP

Correspondent

SHILLONG, FEB 24: Ahead of the single-phase of Meghalaya polls, top BJP leaders on Friday exuded confidence that the party will make impressive gains and lead the first ever BJP government in Meghalaya.

“We are confident to get a double-digit in Meghalaya. We are also confident that BJP will also lead the first ever BJP government. The people have endorsed the BJP to lead the government for a corruption-free government,” Mawrie said.

“In 2018 assembly elections, the BJP won just two out of 60 seats and garnered 9.5 per cent vote share, but this time around, we expect to get a vote share of 20-25 per cent share of the total vote after we have further strengthening our party bases in all the 60 assembly constituencies,” the BJP leader confidently said.

The BJP has fielded its candidates in all the 60 assembly constituencies

and its upbeat with former legislators of the ruling NPP and the opposition TMC contesting the February 27 assembly polls on a BJP ticket.

The BJP which is supporting the incumbent NPP-led government is fighting the elections on its own.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s whirlwind campaign in the State capital Shillong and Tura, the district headquarters in West Garo Hills and second largest town in the State after Shillong on Friday, Mawrie said, “You have seen the people’s support (huge crowd) for Modi and the BJP in both the

towns. There is massive support for the BJP. People wanted a change after seeing the dismal performance of the NPP-led government, which is plagued with corruption.”

Unlike in the previous elections, Mawrie said that there is a change of heart, change of mind in the people and people of the state have also realised that it is only the BJP which can ensure development and create employment opportunities.

Brushing asides allegations that BJP is anti-Christian and anti-minority, the BJP president blamed the Congress for spreading such propaganda to mislead the people as they have no other agenda to defeat the Modi government on its mantra ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’.

“BJP’s mission is to work for the country and its development. BJP is an organisation of all sections, all regions, all castes and all religions. The BJP belongs to all Indians,” Mawrie said.

Assam Police to follow case against Khera to logical end: Himanta

GUWAHATI, FEB 24

(PTI): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Friday said that the state police will follow the case against senior Congress leader Pawan Khera for allegedly using “uncivilised language” against Prime Minister Narendra Modi to its “logical end”.

The chief minister who also holds the home portfolio, however, did not elaborate on the next course of action by the Assam police to bring the case to a logical end. ‘’We hope that keeping sanctity of public spaces, no one will use uncivilised language in political discourse hereafter. @assampolice will follow the matter to its logical end’’, the Chief Minister tweeted.

A police case was registered against Khera at Haflong police station in Assam’s Dima Hasao district of Assam for his alleged remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The majesty of law shall always prevail. The accused has tendered an unconditional apology (para 7),’’ he further posted on the micro-blogging site quoting the Supreme Court. He also attached the apex court order granting interim bail to Khera.

Para seven of the SC order, as mentioned by Sarma in his tweet, stated that the petitioner (Khera) would not press the prayer for quashing the FIRs against him since he was advised to pursue the remedies available to him in accordance with the law before the ap-

Arunachal Pradesh paper leak: Suspended official found dead

ITANAGAR, FEB 24 (IANS): An Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) official, who was suspended from service after the alleged leak of question paper in August last year, was found dead under mysterious circumstances on the state capital’s outskirts on Friday, police said.

The body of APPSC Under Secretary Tumi Gangkak, who served the Commission as the Assistant Controller of Examinations, was found hanging from a tree near the Itanagar Zoo road tri-junction. Police recovered the body of the official and launched a probe. The Central Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case after the APPSC conducted Assistant Engineer (Civil) examination question paper was leaked in August last year.

A state government proposal for setting up 34 police outposts along the Indo-Myanmar was recently approved by the Union home ministry.

The primary purpose of setting up the outposts in the border area was to check infiltration from neighboring countries, he said.

Singh informed the house that from January 1, 2012 till date, as many as 393 Myanmar nationals were arrested for illegally entering the state.

From 2022 till date (February 2023), 210 illegal migrants from Myanmar were arrested. Among them one was deported, 107 were in judicial custody, 105 in detention centres and 180 were released on bail.

He also highlighted the various measures taken up by the state government to check/curb infiltration such as biometric surveillance, house to house Aadhaar verification in the villages across five hill districts bordering Myanmar, security alert, amongst others.

PRESS STaTEMENT

We the undersigned, active members of Kissan Morcha BJP Party, on this day, the 24th, Feb 2023, have come to a unanimous decision that, we will render our full support to Shri. G. ikuto Zhimomi NDPP candidate 34 A/C Aghunato. We further assert that we have made this resolution based on the pre-poll alliance of BJP-NDPP alliance at 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) General Election 2023.

Kissan Morcha

Sl. No

Name Designation

Office of the D' BLOCK PANCHAYAT Kohima : Nagaland

GENERAL INFORMATION

The D'Block Panchayat in a joint meeting with the Goan Buras, Youth Organisation held on 23rd February 2023 at the Panchayat Hall, Kohima and after thorough deliberation; the house unanimously resolved the followings points for clean and safe atmosphere within its colony.

> To ensure one man one vote.

> Outsiders from other colony will not be allowed to cast proxy vote.

> No outside intruders shall be allowed to enter to any polling station.

> Any Person whether from our colony or outside disturbs the polling process, severe action will be taken against them.

> Serving tea/snacks in the polling station will not be allowed.

G.B Chairman (Ruokuovilhou Belho) (Senokha Losou) D'Block Panchayat k-379/23

propriate high court. Khera was arrested on Thursday by Assam Police at the IGI airport in Delhi after being deplaned from a Delhi-Raipur flight in connection with his alleged remarks against the prime minister. He was on his way to Raipur for the Congress plenary session.

The case against Khera was registered under various sections of the IPC, including 153 B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national interest), 500 (punishment for defamation) and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace). FIRs were also filed against him in Lucknow and Varanasi on similar allegations. He was released on interim bail by Supreme Court on Thursday. The apex court order said that the petition by Khera pressed for clubbing the FIRs in one jurisdiction since it has been urged that the ‘gravamen’ of all FIRs against him lodged

in Lucknow, Varanasi and Dima Hasao is one and the same - namely the press conference at which certain objectionable words were stated.

The judges further observed that Khera’s counsel had stated that he had since

clarified that the use of the language (against the prime minister) was ‘’Inadvertent, though inappropriate, and that he would not stand by the use of such language..... and that the petitioner tenders an unconditional apology’’.

KheratendersapologyinSC:AssamCM

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday claimed that Congress leader Pawan Khera has “tendered an unequivocal apology” for his alleged objectionable remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Taking to Twitter, Sarma said: “The majesty of law shall always prevail. The accused has tendered an unconditional apology... We hope that keeping the sanctity of public spaces, no one will use uncivilized language in political discourse hereafter. Assam Police will follow the matter to its logical end.”

In his post, the Chief Minister also shared the writ petition Khera filed in the Supreme Court.

Khera was arrested on Thursday from the IGI Airport by officials of the Assam Police, hours after he was stopped from boarding a flight to Raipur. Later in the day, Chief Metropolitan Magistrate of the Dwarka court in Delhi granted him an interim bail till February 28 n a bail bond of Rs 30,000 and one surety of the same amount.

Office O f the K. Sachu cO l O ny cO uncil Dimapur : 797112 - n agalan D

Through this Column, the Fire Relief Committee of K. Sachu Colony Ward – 14 would like to acknowledge all the concerned for coming forward in time of grief moment as well as sharing and contributing in cash and kind for fire victim, a fire incident that had happened on 16th February 2023. Followings are the Material and Financial Help that was received by the committee.

1 Dimapur District Disaster Management Authority

2 Mr. Moatoshi Longkumer, MLA Dimapur-II AC

3 Mr. Y. Vikheho Awomi, LJP Candidate from 2 Dimapur II

4 Mr. S. Amento Chishi, Congress Candidate from 2 Dimapur-2 AC

5 Master Colony (Kuda Village) Landowners

6 Nagamese Baptist Church, Lahorijan

7 Mr. Bikram

8 Seva Bharti Nagaland

9 Neighbourhood

Colony & Nagagaon

74 Ephraim Baptist Church, K. Sachu Colony

75 Mrs & Mr. Muhavito, River Belt Colony

76 Dimapur Rongmei Baptist Church

77 Salemyang Gangmei

78 Rongmei Phuam, K. Sachu Colony

79 Hindi Baptist Church Dimapur, Haralu Colony

80 John Lotha & Family

81 Zeliangrongram Colony Council

82 Kuda Kewhimiapfu Mechu Krotho

83 Kuda D. Khel Thenupfiibo Krotho

84 Kirangzai, Nagagaon

85 Sachu Clan, Kohima village

86 Ao Temolungtsur Telongjem Dimapur, Signal Viola

87 Fatashil Telugu Tinquater Old Colony, Ganesh Mandir, Guwahati

88 Telugu Baptist Church, Fatashil Old Colony, Guwahati

89 Nagaland Development Outreach (NDO) NBCC

comp

1. Phukaho Awomi President

2. Akaho Achumi Secy. dc-198/23

Prime Minister Narendra Modi being felicitated during a public rally ahead of Meghalaya Legislative Assembly elections, at Tura in West Garo Hills. (PTI)

We are confident of securing double-digit in

Mukul was involved in ‘killing’ innocent citizens: M’laya CM

Ernest Mawrie

Himanta Biswa Sarma

Conrad Sangma

N Biren Singh

SNIPPETS

AAP’s Kejriwal, Mann meet Uddhav

MUMBAI, FEB 24 (PTI):

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Friday met Shiv Sena (UBT) head Uddhav Thackeray at the latter’s residence in Bandra here. Kejriwal was accompanied by his colleague and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Rajya Sabha MPs Sanjay Singh and Raghav Chadha during the visit to ‘Matoshree’. The meeting assumes significance as the Election Commission had recently allotted the ‘Shiv Sena’ name and ‘bow and arrow’ symbol to the faction headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Suspected Naxalite

held in Maharashtra

GADCHIROLI (MAHA), FEB 24 (PTI):

A suspected Naxalite was arrested in eastern Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district, police said on Friday. Based on intelligence input, an anti-Naxalite operation was launched by the Special Operation Squad (C-60) of police in Dhamrancha forest on Thursday, said district Superintendent of Police

Neelotpal.Vella Veladi (35), resident of Bijapur in neighbouring Chhattisgarh, was arrested during the operation, he said.

Collision of vehicles in central Delhi kills two NEW DELHI, FEB 24 (PTI): Two men were killed and two injured when their cars collided in central Delhi’s IP Estate area on Friday morning, police said. A Ford EcoSport approaching Sarai Kale Khan from ITO and a Honda Civic coming towards ITO from Sarai Kale Khan collided with each other at the Ring Road near IP Metro station, a senior officer said.

One held with drugs worth Rs 10.4 lakh

MUMBAI, FEB 24 (PTI): A 43-year-old man has been arrested with mephedrone or MD worth nearly Rs 10 lakh from suburban Goregaon in the city, an official said on Friday. The man faces at least 15 serious cases related to property, bodily harm and drug peddling, said the official. He said a team from the Crime Branch’s Unit11 took the man into custody from near a temple in the Dindoshi area on Thursday evening.

Modi govt spending Rs 89k crore for tribal welfare: Shah

SlamsCongfor

ignoringtribalicons

SATNA, FEB 24 (PTI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Narendra Modi government is spending Rs 89,000 crore for tribal welfare when compared to Rs 24,000 crore during the Congress-led UPA dispensation, which used to ignore the community and its icons.

He was addressing the ‘Kol Mahakumbh’ on the occasion of Shabri Mata Jayanti in Satna in Madhya Pradesh, where Assembly polls are to be held at the end of the year and Scheduled Tribes make up a sizable part of the electorate.

“The Congress government used to spend Rs 24,000 crore for the development of tribal communities. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this figure has gone up to Rs 89,000 crore,” he said.

He went on to add the Congress, which ruled the country for a major part since Independence,

never thought of making someone from the tribal community the President, whereas the Modi government had ensured the top post went to a woman from a poor tribal family.

Droupadi Murmu was sworn in as President of India on July 25 last year. She is the first from the tribal community and the second woman to hold the country’s top post.

The Modi government is constructing memorials to honour tribal icons who played a stellar role in the freedom struggle, he said and cited MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s move to build a memorial dedicated to Shankar Shah

MCD Ruckus: Mayor stops recounting; councillors trade blows in House

and Raghunath Shah. The ‘Kol Garhi’ associated with the Kol tribe will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 3.5 crore, Shah added.

Attacking the previous Congress government in the state under Kamal Nath, the Union minister said it had stopped welfare schemes started by Chouhan.

The Nath government was in power from December 2018 till March 2020.

The Modi government is committed towards the development of tribals, Scheduled Castes, the poor and the backward by giving five kilograms of food grains free, providing houses to more than three crore persons, free medical treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh as well as building toilets in 10 crore homes, Shah said.

“Ten crore toilets have been built in the houses of the poor. Tribals have benefitted most from this scheme,” Shah said.

He said tribals must vote for BJP in the Assembly polls scheduled for the

Delhi court to hear arguments on charges against Shraddha murder accused on Mar 7

NEW DELHI, FEB 24 (IANS): A Delhi court on Friday listed for March 7 hearing on the charges against Aaftab Amin Poonawala for allegedly strangling his live-in partner Shraddha Walkar and then chopping her body into several pieces.

Principal District and Sessions Judge Narottam Kaushal assigned the case to the court of Additional Sessions Judge Manisha Khurana Kakkar, who has now fixed the date for the hearing.

On February 21, the city’s Saket court on had sent the case to the sessions court for initiation of trial proceedings.

Metropolitan Magistrate Aviral Shukla had said: “Scrutiny of documents is complete... Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code is exclusively triable by sessions court.”

“The accused be produced before Principal District and Sessions Judge on February 24 at 2 p.m..”

Poonawala had requested the court at the hearing for permission to carry a copy of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC),

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

(PTI): The Supreme Court on Friday rejected a plea seeking to gag the media from reporting on the Adani-Hindenburg issue till the court pronounces its order.

The apex court had reserved its order on February 20 on a batch of PILs on the recent Adani Group shares crash triggered by the Hindenburg Research’s fraud allegations.

A bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud declined the plea of advocate M L Sharma who mentioned the matter.

“We are not going to issue any injunction to the media”, the bench also comprising Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala said.

The top court on Monday had refused to take on record the suggestion of one of the petitioners and a report published by Forbes in a batch of PILs.

The top court on February 17 had refused to accept in a sealed cover the Centre’s suggestion on a proposed panel of experts for strengthening regulatory measures for the stock market. Observing that

it wants to maintain full transparency in the interests of investors, it said it would rather not accept the Centre’s suggestion in a sealed cover.

“We will not accept the sealed cover suggestion by you because we want to maintain full transparency,” the bench had said.

On February 10, the top court had said the interests of Indian investors need to be protected against market volatility in the backdrop of the Adani Group stock rout and asked the Centre to consider setting up a panel of domain experts headed by a former judge to look into strengthening the regulatory mechanism. Till now, four PILs have been filed in the top court on the issue by lawyers M L Sharma and Vishal Tiwari, Congress leader Jaya Thakur and activist Mukesh Kumar.

Adani Group stocks have taken a beating on the bourses after the Hindenburg Research made a litany of allegations, including fraudulent transactions and share price manipulation, against the business conglomerate.

a notebook, and a pen to the proceedings so that he could take notes and help his counsel. In response, Poonawala was directed to file an application before the Sessions court.

On February 13, Poonawala had filed applications in the court for release of a ‘proper’ soft copy of the charge sheet and his educational certificates to pursue higher studies.

The court had on February 7 taken cognisance of the charge sheet filed by the Delhi Police against Poonawala.

On January 24, the police had filed the charge sheet in the case which contains over 6,000 pages, and the court had extended his

custody for 14 days.

Poonawala, in one of his applications, had alleged that the police’s charge sheet -- prepared on the basis of forensic and electronic evidence, having around 100 witnesses -- has “falsely implicated” him in the case.

He had also contended that the prosecution intentionally provided a digital copy of the charge sheet, which is not legible.

In the two applications, filed by the accused’s counsel M.S. Khan, the first plea had stated that he was falsely implicated in the present case and was languishing in jail.

Poonawala, who is lodged in Tihar Jail, had also stated in his plea that he wants to pursue higher studies, and hence wants all his certificates. He also immediately requires stationery items like pen, pencil and notebook.

The second plea sought a soft copy of the charge sheet in a ‘proper’ way.

“The charge sheet in the soft copy or pen drive is not proper as the prosecution intentionally provided the soft copy which cannot be read,” his plea had said.

end of the year in the state so that more development works can be completed for them.

Satna is one of the seven districts of Vindh in Madhya Pradesh, and the BJP won 24 out of 30 seats in the 2018 Assembly polls in the region.

The Congress, which had come to power at the time, could get just six seats, while it could not open its account in four districts.

A worry for the BJP is the inroads the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party has made into the region.

AAP had won the mayoral poll in Singrauli and had won a good chunk of votes in the local body polls held last year.

CM Chouhan, Union Minister Faggan Singh Kulaste, state BJP chief VD Sharma, among others, were present at the event.

Shabri is revered as an epitome of devotion in the Ramayana for her act of tasting berries before giving it to Lord Ram to ensure none of them were sour.

NEW DELHI, FEB 24 (IANS): All hell broke loose after MCD Mayor Shelly Oberoi on Friday stalled the recounting of votes for electing the members of the Standing Committee of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) following objections raised by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

It was free for all in the MCD House with BJP and AAP councillors trading blows at each other, showing scant disregard for the sanctity of the House.

Protesting against the Mayor’s decision to stall the recounting process, BJP councillors started breaking mikes, tearing ballot papers and even damaged the polling booths amid sloganeering.

Oberoi said that one party is ready for recounting, while the other is not.

“So I am stopping the recounting process,” Oberoi said.

Earlier, after polling was held for the all-powerful Standing Committee, the tussle between the Councilors started over a single vote. After the polls, the Mayor declared one vote as invalid.

Meanwhile, AAP

councillor Ashok Kumar Maanu collapsed as clashes broke out between the BJP and AAP councillors.

“They are so shameless that they attacked even women and the Mayor. The BJP goons did this,” Maanu claimed.

The party claimed that Oberoi was also attacked by the ‘BJP goons’. Women security guards escorted her by risking their own lives, AAP claimed.

BJPallegesMayor floutedrules;movesHC

BJP councillor Sharad Kapoor on Friday moved the Delhi High Court, alleging that Mayor Shelly Oberoi did not stick to to the rules of not using mobile phones and pens during voting to elect the MCD Stand-

ing Committee members on Wednesday. Kapoor, in his petition, has said that the Mayor “defied every constitutional and statutory norm” and “betrayed the mandate of the Constitution by allowing mobile phones and pens in the election proceedings”.

The petitioner has also sought to declare the February 22 polls as null and void.

A single-judge bench of Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav listed the matter for hearing on February 27. Kapoor said that he, along with others, had staged a protest against the Mayor’s act. Several confidential ballot papers used for the election of the Standing Committee members are taking rounds on social media.

Radical preacher Amritpal Singh’s aide walks free

AMRITSAR/CHANDIGARH, FEB 24 (PTI): Radical preacher Amritpal Singh’s aide and kidnapping accused Lovepreet Singh ‘Toofan’ walked out of jail Friday, a day after hundreds of protesters stormed a police station to extract an assurance that he would be released.

A local court ordered his discharge from Amritsar Central Jail, basing its decision on an appeal filed by the police. In a volte-face, the police had submitted that their investigations did not indicate that Toofan was at the spot where the alleged abduction took place.

Critics see Toofan’s release as a sign of the state’s Aam Aadmi Party government succumbing to pressure from Sikh radicals.

“Nip the evil in the bud,” Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring had said Thursday when protesters brandishing swords and firearms barged into Ajnala police station on the outskirts of Amritsar, forcing the police to cave in.

“What we are seeing today is reminiscent of the past which every Punjabi is scared of,” he said, in an apparent reference to the violent “Khalistan” agitation in the 1980s. Amritpal

Singh, who heads an organisation called “Waris Punjab De” is often described as a Khalistan sympathiser.

Asked in Chandigarh whether a case has been registered in connection with Thursday’s violence, Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said video footage from the scene is being analysed and statements of the six injured policemen will be recorded.

But the preacher remained defiant, warning that a protest will be held again if any action is taken. “I want to tell the DGP that if they take any illegitimate action, it will again lead to protests,” he told reporters in Amritsar.

The police must take action against those who

lodged a “fake FIR” against his supporters, he said.

DGP Yadav said the force had acted with “utmost restraint” the previous day as the protesters were carrying a copy of the Guru Granth Sahib in a procession. “Had police opened fire, it would have led to more issues,” he said.

“The Punjab Police is a battle-hardened force and we have won a victory against terrorism. We have maintained harmony in Punjab and the state will continue to fight the nation’s battle... this conspiracy shall not be allowed to succeed,” he said.

Earlier, after the court issued its order, the preacher told reporters that Toofan’s release was a “victory of the

panth (Sikh faith)”.

In its order, the court said Lovepreet Singh was being discharged from judicial custody as he was no more required by the investigating officer.

“A direction is issued to the SHO concerned to conduct investigation in the case and submit its report. Necessary intimation be sent to Superintendent of Jail, Amritsar, in this regard,” Manpreet Kaur, Sub-Divisional Judicial Magistrate, Ajnala, said in her order.

A long cavalcade of vehicles led by Amritpal Singh had headed towards the jail from Ajnala town to receive Lovepreet Singh. The procession later made its way to the Golden Temple.

A case was registered in Ajnala on February 16 against Amritpal Singh and 30 supporters for allegedly kidnapping and thrashing Barinder Singh, a resident of Chamkaur Sahib in Rupnagar district.

Barinder Singh had told police that the preacher’s associates abducted him, took him to an unknown place and then thrashed him brutally. The case was registered on the basis of this complaint, police said.

Amritpal Singh with his supporters offers prayer at a ‘Gurudwara’ after the release order of Lovepreet Toofan. (PTI)

Councillors of AAP and BJP clash during the election of members of the MCD Standing Committee. (PTI)

Aaftab Poonawala and Shraddha Walkar

Amit Shah

AAP-BJP mega fight

As the nation’s capital and also among one of the world’s most famous and prestigious metropolis, Delhi’s image is being besmirched by the unseemly conduct of the recently elected municipal councillors. The newly elected members especially from the AAP and the BJP have taken their rivalry beyond reasonable limits as pushing and shouting inside the MCF hall continue to disrupt the functioning of the house. Election to the Municipal Council of Delhi(MCD) was held on December 4,2022 to elect 250 councils of the newly unified MCD comprising of NDMC, SDMC and EDMC. All there were merged into a single body on March 22,2022 and the unified Municipal Corporation of Delhi(MCD) formally came into existence on March 22,2022. The Delhi State Election Commission(SEC) announced the results on December 7,2022 in which , the AAP won 134 seats, BJP bagged 104, Congress got nine and the Independents secured victory in three wards. The election of the MCD Mayor had to be postponed thrice as the BJP did everything to prevent the eventual election of the AAP Mayoral candidate. The electoral college for the mayor comprises 250 elected councillors, seven Lok Sabha and three Rajya Sabha MPs from Delhi and 14 MLAs. The Delhi Assembly Speaker nominated 13 AAP MLAs and a BJP member to the civic body. In order to put up a fight for the Mayor’s seat, the BJP appointed lieutenant governor V.K.Saxena nominated ten members to the MCD. However, AAP objected to move of the Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena in naming the 10 nominees without consulting the Delhi government. The AAP had raised objection against oath-taking by the ten nominated aldermen and the question of their voting. This had stalled Mayor election thrice. If the nominated members were allowed to vote, the strength of the BJP would have gone up to 123 from 113. AAP has 150 votes in the 274-member house, where the majority mark stands at 138. AAP candidate Shelly Oberoi then approached the Supreme Court, questioning the BJP’s contention that the ten members nominated by the Lieutenant Governor - are allowed to vote in the election. A bench led by Chief Justice of Supreme Courtr of India DY Chandrachud ruled that nominated members cannot vote in the election. “Nominated members cannot go for election. The constitutional provision is very clear,” the bench observed. The election was postponed the Fourth time to accommodate the Supreme Court hearing. The fourth attempt to choose Delhi’s new mayor turned out successful as voting concluded on February 22 when. This comes after three previous failed attempts. Shelly Oberoi of the Aam Aadmi Party won the Mayoral post defeating BJP’s Rekha Gupta by 34 votes out of 266 votes cast. APP also won the deputy Mayor’s post when its candidate Aaley Mohammad Iqbal defeated the BJP’s Kaml Bagri by a margin of 31 votes. The election has not ended the ‘war’ between AAP and BJP since Standing Committees are to be formed. While the mayor and deputy mayor are the nominal heads of the civic body, it is the Standing Committee which has executive powers. Much is expected of the AAP to fulfil its pledge to ensure the newly merged MCD works. If it does, then what is important is that while Delhites will be the most benefitted lot, the nation will also earn good name for a cleaner city with improved amenities.

DailyDevotion

The Delight of Sacrifice

I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls… —2 Corinthians 12:15

Once “the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,” we deliberately begin to identify ourselves with Jesus Christ’s interests and purposes in others’ lives (Romans 5:5). And Jesus has an interest in every individual person. We have no right in Christian service to be guided by our own interests and desires. In fact, this is one of the greatest tests of our relationship with Jesus Christ. The delight of sacrifice is that I lay down my life for my Friend, Jesus (see John 15:13). I don’t throw my life away, but I willingly and deliberately lay it down for Him and His interests in other people. And I do this for no cause or purpose of my own. Paul spent his life for only one purpose— that he might win people to Jesus Christ. Paul always attracted people to his Lord, but never to himself. He said, “I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22).

When someone thinks that to develop a holy life he must always be alone with God, he is no longer of any use to others. This is like putting himself on a pedestal and isolating himself from the rest of society. Paul was a holy person, but wherever he went Jesus Christ was always allowed to help Himself to his life. Many of us are interested only in our own goals, and Jesus cannot help Himself to our lives. But if we are totally surrendered to Him, we have no goals of our own to serve. Paul said that he knew how to be a “doormat” without resenting it, because the motivation of his life was devotion to Jesus. We tend to be devoted, not to Jesus Christ, but to the things which allow us more spiritual freedom than total surrender to Him would allow. Freedom was not Paul’s motive at all. In fact, he stated, “I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren…” (Romans 9:3). Had Paul lost his ability to reason? Not at all! For someone who is in love, this is not an overstatement. And Paul was in love with Jesus Christ.

Quotes

The Wrath of God

The cry of Clean, fair and free election in Nagaland is nothing new. Since the beginning of the Second Assembly Election, we hear from every establishment, telling people to maintain the model code of conduct. We all know our present condition.

Corruption has reached to its peak. Christian voters casting proxy votes and boasting of their performances. Christian leaders, in search of some pecuniary benefit for their individual gain, openly campaign for their own candidates.

Some of them do it in the name of church development. What an excuse! Christian thanks giving and praise of God for what He is are used by unbelievers for election rallies. They had replaced God by the candidates. Superficial sermons abound from the pulpits but nothing has changed, if not worse. Why? Because our hearts are not changed. Nothing will change unless our hearts are changed. For this, we need to be born again in Christ.

At the bottom of our mind and thinking, we believe that God is love, forgiving, and full of grace. So we can do anything because God is love.

We only concentrate on the judgement of the last day. We easily forget that God is an angry God. He hates sin. He is angry on any sin. Anger is not a sin all by itself.

It is neutral. Only on our response to anger make

Nagaland is a socalled ‘Christian’ state wherein by law buying and selling of liquor and also its storage as well as consumption has been banned. Nagaland has exhibited a serious ‘policy phobia’ regarding the question of liquor/ alcohol consumption. Nagaland is also one of those states that banned liquor, which evidently recorded the highest number of deaths due to ailments related to alcohol consumption. One report (2013-2018) which is available in the public domain, says around 4,051 patients were admitted in various hospitals with alcohol related ailments and 479 deaths have been recorded.

Article 47 of the Constitution of India says that, “the state shall make every effort to ban the consumption of intoxicating drinks and substances that are injurious to health”. Though not legally enforceable, “Directive Principles of State Policies” set goals for the state so that the citizens can lead a good life.

HOWEVER, what we have generally witnessed is that there is a great gap between theory and practice, and liquor ban certainly does not serve the purpose nor meet the objectives envisaged under Article 47. In fact, this hollow policy of liquor ban is responsible for actively encouraging the rise and shine of ‘Liquor Black Market’ and ‘deaths of people’ due to the consumption of contaminated alcohol. Moreover, since I have eyes and a brain, I can very well observe as to how the local/state leaders/businessmen/influential people are actively involved in the indirect, illegal business of liquor and allied activities. Illegal liquor business could not have achieved full-on prosperity had it not been blessed by the tribal leaders, state politicians and the government servants.

We Nagas are primarily the most cunning people,

us commit sin. There is a righteous anger. Sin or not sin by anger, can only be determined by our action.

In the Old Testament, God was angry with His people Israel. The Israelites, made idols, the golden calf, and started worshiping it.

They exchanged God by the idol and started to worship men made images. They worship the creature and not the Creator. Exo.32.31-35. God was angry. Yet, in another incident, we see God’s anger.

The Ark of God was captured by the Philistines and was with them. But because of the calamities they faced, decided to return the Ark of God to the Israelites.

When the Ark of God reached Beth-Shemite, while the people were harvesting and they gladly received it.

But some of the men of Bet-Shemesh looked into the Ark of God, so 50,070 of them were struck down.

They were all frightened, so they sent word to the people of Kiriathjearim to come and take it.

The people of KiriathShemesh came and took it into the house of Abinadab and his son Eleazar was consecrated to keep it.

The Ark of God lay there for 20 years. 1 Sam.7:2.When David became king, he decided to bring the Ark to his city, Jerusalem, the city of David.

While bringing the Ark, on reaching the

we know how to play with the system that we ourselves have created to achieve our illegal objectives, unlawful goals and sinful desires.

The Government of India has been lawfully helping Nagaland to manage its economy and maximum capital as well as revenue expenditures under its legal obligations as per Article 371 (A), however, it is we who misused the beautifully created system, and this observation gives a lot of pain to me as a Naga student. In short, Nagas were never troubled by any outsiders or non-nagas, it is we the Nagas who have continuously troubled and stolen rights of the other Nagas and dug a big, deep ‘CAVE’ for ourselves. The current development in our state, for example, an ongoing movement of “Frontier Nagaland” is also not just a result of state failure, but the result of a failure of the Nagas as individuals as well as a community too.

I feel ashamed as a Naga and an Indian- a citizen of this beautiful, free country which runs on the Rule of Law and the Command of the Constitution. As a student, I do not see any Law, Rule or System in Nagaland.

I have lived outside in different parts of India with my educated parents and now I am living in Nagaland, I can see the stark differences. Here, we do not value Law and System. We do not follow traffic rules. We do not respect Police in Nagaland. We do not follow hygiene, we want to use washed-branded clothes but we shamelessly spit on the road and in the house. Furthermore, there are so many other things which otherwise may not be lawful or legal we do in the name of “cultural practices and traditions’’. For e.g. since the election season is going on- i would say, the practice of declaring “Consensus Candidate” by villages in Nagaland which is justi -

threshing floor of Nacon, the oxen slipped and Uzzah stretched out his hand to steady the Ark, and the anger of God burned and he was struck down. II Sam.6:6-7.

The king therefore kept the Ark in the house of Obed-edom the Gittite. It was there for three months.

II Sam.6:10-11. In the New Testament, we see again, Jesus Christ getting angry in the temple in Jerusalem. He saw in the Temple premises, traders using unethical business practices. He turned the tables of the money changers and driving away the sacrificial animals and birds.

Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, ”Be angry; and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger” Eph.4:26.

Yes, God is angry with us. We claimed ourselves to believe in Him but we do not obey Him. He can give us up so that we can do what we like. Our hard heartedness has compelled God to give us up.

In Romans, we are told that God made their mind “reprobate”. The people exchanged the truth of God with a lie.

We are exactly like the people which Paul was speaking in Romans Chapter 1. My Naga friends, let us consider where we are. It is time to repent and go to Him.

It is not enough to say “we are Christians”. God can give us up!

Dr.L.M.Murry

fied by people in the name of cultural practice and tradition, is the extreme violation of Law of the Land. There are people who manipulate/violate the right to vote of people by threat or money. When will Nagas wake up? We talk about the “Naga Solution”, but first we have to find a solution to our own corrupt minds, demonic hearts, lusty desires and selfish souls. We have to free ourselves from the clutches of undemocratic rule of village councils and invisible forces. We Nagas first have to free ourselves from our own selfish nature- that is, i believe-is a real freedom, that is real solution, that is real achievement for us Nagas. We are living in an interesting time, an era of grand transformation. We have suffered a lot in the hands of our own. We have seen how politics is being played in the last six decades. We have also witnessed how the inactive nature of politicians, their lack of vision and selfish character, Nagaland has evolved into the number one corrupt state in India. How long are we going to tolerate this? Old generation of leaders is teaching and indoctrinating younger generations of leaders with wrong ideas, wrong worldviews and wrong politics. The legacy of corruption, political blindness and social narrow mindedness seems to have been passed from the older generation to the younger generation. We should stop this immediately. The wrongs and mistakes (knowingly, unknowingly) committed by the older generation of tribal leaders, Ministers, MLAs and Government servants of the state of Nagaland should never be repeated. Older generation of Politicians and the Old style of Politics should be compulsorily retired from Nagaland Politics.

Politically religious or religiously political?

Human beings are political and religious by nature. The combination of both enables the smooth functioning of the State. The sharp contrast between the two brings chaos, fear and violence. As the trumpet of election blows, there emerges a contrasting sound of politics and religion.

There are people who make use of religion for their political gain, while others use politics to gain the support of different religious groups. Meanwhile, the birth of fanatics and fools boosts the two sides. Election campaigns will clearly show politically religious persons walking across the State. They may appear in various forms to get voters into their fold. Such people are treated as gods and goddesses in the name of politics.

A State like Nagaland should not become a hunting ground for political players. In politics, everything can be covered with exciting speeches and manifestoes.

Empty promises are treated as more important than actual day-to-day living. Despite all these dramas, some people still rush behind the tail with open gasping mouths. Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.

There is no wrong with the use of religion in politics and vice versa.

However, the motives should not be deceiving. One should not intrude on religion with political motives.

No person should venture out to buy Christian values for politics. Politics is not the end of everything.

What we are today and will be tomorrow is more important than the present big political show. Nagas are Christians not by politics. Hence, we should avoid politicizing religious matters. Religion too should not view politics with the eye of religion at all times.

This can be well termed as religiously political or politically religious. This is the present confusion that is partially forced upon the minds and hearts of the Christians in Nagaland. This is injurious to both politics and religion.

Generation of Politicians and all those members of Legislative Assembly of Nagaland (current and past) that banned (support/ encouraged) liquor and transformed our beautiful, innocent “Christian State of Nagaland” into “Drunken state of Nagaland”, created fertile ground for corruption, kept people in the darkness, never created the culture of Rule of Law, never taught people/ citizens their rights and duties, stolen the rights of the Eastern Naga people must be kept outside the political affairs of our state in the interests of all of us and our state of Nagaland. Time has come to initiate a cleanliness drive. This election is an opportunity for us.

Nagaland was created in 1963, since then nobody taught our people the meaning of Right to Vote or Justice. Today, nobody cares about choosing the right candidate. They understand elections as an opportunity to earn money. In Nagaland people take money and sell their vote. They do not understand that selling the vote is selling self-respect and honor. In Nagaland our leaders never taught us the meaning of “One Man, One Vote, One Value”, our leaders never taught us the value of our Constitutional rights.

As I see, many socalled leaders, intellectuals or people who showed courage to go against the system are being bought with a few thousands or lakhs of rupees or offer of a high position in Government and soon they too become a part of the bandwagon/ evil gangs of jokers, power agents, power mongers and political Dalals. However, in all the darkness, I have also seen a handful of people who demonstrate to us through their actions the value of Selfrespect, honesty and the true meaning of “Justice”, who are standing strong

The Churches in Nagaland are not far from politics. They know how to skip the internal pending issues and substitute them with issues of religious persecution outside the State.

Yes, we must support the cause, but not at the expense of forgetting what lies beneath the nose. Nagaland too has a history of religious persecution which are yet to be treated and healed. We remain in a state of denial and easily grasp the happenings of the other world.

Therefore, we produce more fake preachers than doers. They appear to disappear when faced with real-life situations. There are churches which play hide and seek both in politics and religion. They hide under the guise of the big bang theory.

The condemnation poured forth by various church bodies with regard to the recent happenings is true and just. However, we must also rectify our own faults.

In Nagaland, most associations (religious or civil) are searching for a place to perch. They wanted to depict themselves as important. In this process, they confuse politics and religion even more. Politics and religion do not exist in themselves. They exist in and through men and women. Therefore, the power to keep politics and religion clean/dirty depends on the people.

What you do to each other is equally important as numerous prayers, fasting and sacrifices. Christianity is not a hollow religion. It works better with faith and good works.

Politics can disguise itself in different forms to tempt and cheat people for no good. However, we must at all times stand firm on Christian principles and values. Politicians should avoid the interplay of politics and religion to deceive people. Religion should also be the beacon of light without deception. Politics and religion are good in themselves. We can differentiate religion and politics by not mixing the two for our own advantage. Rev. Fr. G. L.

like a Rock of Gibraltar

- all alone shining like an afternoon Sun. Corrupt and criminal minded people are always found in groups, but the Lion with Wisdom, Knowledge and Strength roams alone. As a young man, I was attracted to a Lion and refused to surrender myself at the feet of cunning Foxes and Vampire Bats in Nagaland.

As a representative of the young Naga generation I strongly feel that we don’t have to be that cheap for money. It is because of corrupt leaders that we elected under the lustful influence of money, Nagaland is suffering. What does Nagaland not have? We have natural resources, we have dedicated manpower, we share international boundaries, in fact Nagaland has a potential to become the richest state in India, but it is only because of the worst leaders, their supporters from the business community and the rotten system we have been dragged to the current situation.

As a young stakeholder, I want investment in Nagaland, I want international companies in Nagaland, I want Banks, I want insurance companies, I want Petroleum, agricultural as well as wellregulated Liquor industry in my state, I want international universities as well as engineering colleges, multispecialty hospitals, Research centers, IITs, NLUs in Nagaland. Why should there be no international manufacturing units in our state? I want roads similar to the roads of New Delhi.

I want our Indian Railways to connect each and every district of Nagaland. I want public toilets everywhere. I want street lights. I desire and want everything that my Constitution of India guarantees me as a citizen of India. I will only vote for a candidate who is able to give me a guarantee to respect and secure my Fundamental Rights as a

Khing, Chümoukedima

citizen of this country. Due to liquor ban the government has thrown Nagaland in the state of perpetual drunkenness, however, “Alcohol of power and political slavery” has also put our Nagaland into the state of perpetual amnesia. Time for the Constitutional Revolution has come.

It is our cardinal duty to choose the right candidate. We need to send the right people to the state assembly to achieve our development goals and most importantly to achieve structural transformation in the state governance. Every single vote can make a difference. Nobody in this world can take your right to vote away from you. No person, no organization, nobody can threaten you or force you or violate your right to vote. Let us have complete faith in the Constitution of our country. You and I can be the agent of change.

Don’t sell your franchise in order to suffer tomorrow. Cast your vote fearlessly. Elect new leaders, young leaders, educated leaders, visionary leaders and most importantly elect leaders who can take you out from the darkness with their moral strength and character. We are modern young Nagas, architects of new Nagaland and New India. We will build a new world.

We young people are watching. We will make Nagaland Legislative Assembly members accountable for each and every action they take. The Law of the Land is with us. New generation is not mute, we know how to talk and how to act.

We “FREE” young boys and girls are the guardians of Nagaland. Beware of us.

Akummoa Nokdir, Class 11 ARTS, Tetso College, Nagaland

“Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”

~ Albert Einstein

The drunken ‘Nagaland”- Alcohol, dirty politics and dawn of a new world

SNIPPETS

Meerut roof collapse kills 7

MEERUT (UP), FEB

24 (PTI): At least seven people were killed and 30 sustained injuries after an under-construction roof of a cold storage collapsed in Daurala here on Friday, police said. Senior administrative and police officials along with a team of the National Disaster Response Force have rushed to the spot, police said, adding 27 people have been rescued from under the rubble and efforts are on to find others. Meerut District

Magistrate Deepak Meena said,”Seven workers at the site were killed when the roof collapsed.

Twenty seven workers have been rescued and shifted to hospital.”

11 people killed, 12 injured in pickup van-truck collision

RAIPUR, FEB 24 (PTI):

Eleven people, including four children, were killed when the pick-up van they were travelling in collided with a truck in Chhattisgarh’s BalodabazarBhatapara district, police said on Friday. A dozen others were injured in the accident near Khamariya village under Bhatapara police station area, located around 70 km away from capital Raipur, on Balodabazar-Bhatapara road late Thursday night, they said.

5 members of family killed in road accident

VADODARA (GUJA -

RAT), FEB 24 (IANS):

Five members of a family were killed after a car rammed into an autorickshaw, in which the deceased were travelling, in Gujarat’s Vadodara on Thursday. Police have arrested the car driver for rash and negligent driving.

Foreign candidates, NRIs can also apply for CUET-UG 2023

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

(IANS): Foreign candidates, NRI and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) candidates can also apply for Common University

Entrance Test-Undergraduate (CUET-UG)

2023, UGC Chairman

Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar said. However, all Central universities in India will allow UG admission only through the CUET. In the online application form of CUET-UG 2023, candidates need to select nationality in the dropdown, either Indian, OCI, NRI or Foreign.

New Delhi World Book Fair to be held after three years

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

(IANS): The New Delhi World Book Fair will be held in Pragati Maidan this year after a gap of three years starting from February 25 to March 5. The last World Book Fair was held in January 2020. The central government’s premier publishing house - Publications Division - will be exhibiting its rich collection of books and journals at the 31st New Delhi World Book Fair, one of the most acclaimed book fairs of the country.

India abstains in UNGA on Ukraine resolution

UNITED NATIONS, FEB 24 (PTI): India has abstained in the UN General Assembly on a resolution that underscored the need to reach “comprehensive, just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, as it questioned whether the world was “anywhere near a possible solution” acceptable to both Moscow and Kyiv a year into the Ukrainian conflict.

India was among the 32 nations that abstained as the 193-member General Assembly adopted the resolution ‘Principles of the Charter of the United Nations underlying a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine’ on Thursday, put forward by Ukraine and its supporters.

The non-binding resolution, which received 141 votes in favour and seven against, underscored the “need to reach, as soon as possible, a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in line with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations.”

In the Explanation of Vote after the resolution was adopted, India’s Permanent Repr esentative to the UN

Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj said that as the General Assembly marks a year of the Ukrainian conflict, “it is important that we ask ourselves a few pertinent questions.

“Are we anywhere near a possible solution acceptable to both sides? Can any process that does not involve either of the two sides, ever lead to a credible and meaningful solution? Has the UN system, and particularly its principal organ, the UN Security Council, based on a 1945-world construct, not been rendered ineffective to address contemporary challenges to global peace and

security?” Kamboj said. She stressed that India continues to remain concerned over the situation in Ukraine, noting that the conflict has resulted in the loss of countless lives and misery, particularly for women, children, and the elderly, with millions becoming homeless and forced to seek shelter in neighbouring countries.Kamboj said that New Delhi has consistently advocated that no solution can ever be found at the cost of human lives.

Countries which abstained: Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Burundi, Cen tral

DRDO official held in Odisha for sharing defence info with Pakistani spy

BALASORE, FEB 24 (PTI): A senior official of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was arrested on Friday for allegedly sharing secret information related to India’s defence sector with a Pakistani spy, the Odisha Police said.

The 57-year-old official was posted at the DRDO’s Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha’s Balasore district, it said.

Chandipur has two DRDO test ranges -- PXE (Proof and Experimental Establishment) and ITR. India evaluates the performances of its missiles, rockets and air-borne weapons systems at these two ranges.

“A senior employee of ITR-Chandipur has been arrested. He managed to transmit some sensitive information regarding missile tests to a foreign agent,” said Himansu Kumar Lal, the Inspector-General of Police (Eastern Range).

The official was arrested on the basis of a complaint filed at the Chandipur police station, he said. The details of the information he shared could be ascertained after a thorough interrogation, said Balasore’s Superintendent of Police (SP) Sagarika Nath.

A case has been filed against him under IPC sections 120A and 120B (criminal conspiracy), besides the Official Secrets

Shah should look at Yediyurappa before harping on dynastic politics

doesn’t contest polls. Everyone wants to contest polls and lead Karnataka. I don’t understand as to who runs the house,” Shah had quipped.

Cong plenary session: Kharge authorised to nominate members

African Republic, China, Congo, Cuba, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongo-

Countries which voted for the resolution: Afghanistan, Albania, Andorra, Antigua-Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Canada, Chad, Chile, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, Egypt, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Latvia, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mau-

lia, Mozambique, Namibia, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Zimbabwe.

ritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Sao Tome, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad Tobago, Tunisia, Tuvalu, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Yemen, Zambia. Countries which voted against the resolution: Belarus, North Korea, Eritrea, Mali, Nicaragua, Russia, Syria.

NAVA RAIPUR (CHHATTISGARH), FEB 24 (PTI):

The Congress Steering Committee unanimously decided on Friday not to hold the CWC polls and authorised party chief Mallikarjun Kharge to nominate its members, at a key meeting that was skipped by the members of the Gandhi family.

The party also proposed an amendment to its constitution to include the former Congress prime ministers and former AICC chiefs as permanent members of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), a move that would ensure the automatic inclusion of Manmohan Singh, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the party’s highest decision-making body.

The inclusion of the leaders of the Congress in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha in the CWC has also been proposed. The number of members of the CWC will rise from the current 25 once these amendments are approved.

At its 85th plenary session, the Congress is set to amend its constitution to

provide a 50-per cent reservation to Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), women, youngsters and minorities at all levels, including in the CWC, party general secretary Jairam Ramesh told a press conference after the steering committee meeting.

A key amendment in the party’s constitution proposes to ensure that the members abstain from consuming any psychotropic substances or drugs and propagate against the use of such substances, sources said. Some leaders also want an amendment to the constitution relating to prohibiting consumption of alcohol by the members.

Ramesh said the decision to authorise the party chief to nominate the CWC members was taken by a committee led by Kharge in view of the country’s prevailing political situation and the proposed amendment to give a 50-per cent representation to women, SCs, STs, OBCs, minorities and youngsters in the CWC.

AAP govt asks officials not to take orders from Delhi LG

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

H D Kumaraswamy

SHI

VAMOGGA (K’TAKA), FEB 24 (PTI):

Former Karnataka chief minister H D Kumaraswamy on Friday hit back at Union Home Minister Amit Shah for making sarcastic remarks on dynastic politics in JD(S).

The JD(S) second-incommand pointed out at the dynastic politics prevailing in the Karnataka unit of BJP where former chief minister B S Yediyurappa and his sons are holding key positions in the saffron party.

During an interactive session in Bengaluru on Thursday, Shah had said the JD(S) is a dynastic party.

“You can’t find anyone in their fa mily who

VP slams foreign experts for passing comments on India

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

(PTI): Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Friday said that people should avoid taking note of some foreign experts who work in India on key positions like RBI for a short period and pass comments about the country on return. Addressing 61st convocation of Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) here, Dhankhar said India has become the world’s fifth largest economy

after the great efforts. Still, he added, some people in the ecosystem are spreading “misconception” about India’s economic rise.

“We cannot allow anyone to taint, tarnish and diminish achievements of those sweating for this nation,” he said. In an apparent reference to former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan, the Vice President said, “Some people come and work here in key positions.”

“We should felicitate Amit Shah for his concern for our house as to who will run our household matters. He should have asked the same to Yediyurappa once... Probably, he (Yediyurappa) would have answered,” Kumaraswamy told reporters at Theerthahalli in Shivamogga district.

Kumaraswamy charged that Shah lectured others keeping Yediyurappa beside him.

“Yediyurappa has two sons and both are in politics. Then, who in his family is taking care of household works?” the JD(S) leader wondered.

Kumaraswamy also took objection over Shah’s comment that every vote to the JD(S) would eventually go to the Congress.

Assembly polls in the state are due by May.

Act, police said. He was allegedly sharing sensitive defencerelated information with a Pakistani agent for “sexual as well as monetary gratification”, they said.

WhatsApp chats and sexually explicit photos and videos were found in his phone, which was seized, they added.

In September 2021, five contractual employees of ITR-Chandipur were arrested in another espionage case.

A contractual employee of ITR-Chandipur was arrested in a similar case in 2015. He was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2021 for sharing information with Pakistan’s ISI.

(PTI): The AAP government on Friday asked officials to stop taking directives from Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena and report any such orders from him to their respective ministers, a move that may trigger a fresh tussle between the ruling party and the LG office.

According to an official statement, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said the government has warned that any such orders received directly from the LG are a violation of the Constitution and directives of the Supreme Court.

He said the the implementation of orders, that is in violation of SC directives and the Constitution, will be viewed seriously.

The LG office and the AAP dispensation has been engaged in a tussle over a

host of issues, including the government’s proposal to send school teachers to Finland for training.

On several occasions in the past, AAP leaders have accused the LG of bypassing the elected government of Delhi and issuing orders to officials.

The vexatious CentreDelhi government row over control of services is being heard by the Supreme

Court.

“The Arvind Kejriwalled Delhi government has instructed government officers to respect the Constitution of India and Supreme Court orders, and stop taking direct orders from the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi.

“All ministers have written to their department secretaries, directing strict compliance with the Con-

stitution, Transaction of Business Rules (TBR) and Constitution Bench judgment of the Supreme Court. Secretaries have been instructed to report any direct orders received from the LG to the minister-in-charge,” said the statement. The order issued by the government states that as per the Constitution and orders of the Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court of July 4, 2018, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) has exclusive executive control over all subjects except for three -- land, police, and public order. In the case of transferred subjects, the proviso to Article 239AA(4) provides that the LG may differ with the decision of the Council of Ministers on any of the transferred subjects.

RSS training helped me rise, says Yediyurappa in K’taka Assembly

BENGALURU, FEB 24

(IANS): BJP Central Parliamentary Board member and former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Friday said the training imparted by RSS and Sangh Parivar is responsible for his rise in politics. In his farewell speech on the last day of the 15th Assembly session, the veteran leader gave all credit to RSS for his growth and stated that he can never forget its contribution.

“I am speechless, unable to figure out what to say,” he said. “I thank the people of Shikaripura con-

stituency for having elected me continuously. I will be 80 years old on February 27. On the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving to inaugurate the Shivamogga airport. This is a matter of joy and complacency for me,” he said. Yediyurappa stated he got many good opportunities in life. “When roads were not proper, I had the opportunity to travel along with late PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in the state. Atalji and Adavani Ji used to come and join me when I delivered speeches. The situation was such.

“In the beginning only

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B.S. Yediyurappa

two of us represented the BJP in the state. Though leader Vasanth Bangera left, I did not,” he maintained.

Yediyurappa stated that

former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda is a model for all politicians. “At this age he advises and thinks about state and country’s affairs. We need to learn a lot from him,” he said. Yediyurappa also thanked Opposition leader Siddaramaiah and former CM S.M. Krishna.

CM Bommai has contributed to the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe community. He will benefit from it in the coming days.

“I have stated this is my last Assembly session two days ago. I will strive towards building and developing the party till my last breath. I will not use one moment, one day for personal life,” he reiterated. “I will tour across the state and ensure the victory of BJP in Karnataka,” he said. Yediyurappa along with MLAs paid flower tribute to the statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar after atten ding the last session.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

DIRECTORATE OF ECONOMICS & STATISTICS

NAGALAND: KOHIMA

No.ES/RBD-8/1/2001 kohima, Dated the Feb.2023. P UBLIC N OTICE

It is to inform the general public that Shri NIRANJAN CHETTRI, S/o Lt. SANTA BAHADUR CHETTRI a temporary resident of P.W.D Colony, kohima and a permanent resident of Salbari Village, Siliguri, Darjeeling, West Bengal is issuing Birth & Death Certificate illegally. Therefore, the public are requested to be vigilant and desist from obtaining Births & Deaths Certificate from the person as mentioned above. Further if any discrepancies or suspicious in Births & Deaths certificate are detected, the undersigned may be informed for initiating appropriate action as per the RBD Act 1969. The Birth & Deaths certificates issued by Shri NIRANJAN CHETTRI stand cancelled.

Sd/Director Economics & Statistics & Addl. Chief Registrar of Births & Deaths Nagaland: kohima.

Lt Governor V K Saxena and Arvind Kejriwal

The results of a UN vote to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

G20 nations must address challenges: RBI Gov

BENGALURU, FEB 24

(PTI): The global economic outlook has improved in recent months, but uncertainties still remain, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said on Friday as he called upon G20 nations to resolutely address the challenges, including debt distress and threats to financial stability, confronting world economies.

Addressing the inaugural session of the meeting of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors (FMCBG), Das said the outlook for the global economy has improved in recent months.

“There is now greater optimism that the world may avoid a deep recession and only experience slow growth or a softer recession. Yet uncertainties lie ahead of us,” Das said. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had in its January update of the World Economic Outlook said although the global economy is poised to slow this year, before rebounding next year, the outlook is less

gloomy than in its October forecast, and could represent a turning point, with growth bottoming out and inflation declining.

The FMCBG meeting is the first major meeting of G20 -- a grouping of 20 developed and developing nations -- under India’s Presidency.

“Together we must resolutely address the challenges that confront us, including those that are of medium to long-term nature such as threats to financial stability, debt distress, cli-

mate finance, fractures in global trade and strains on global value chains. We must promote greater global economic cooperation and position the global economy on a trajectory of strong sustainable balanced and inclusive growth,” Das said.

The RBI Governor said G20 is poised for a transformational journey and within the finance track, the effort will be to entrench an unwavering faith in G20 as a multilateral forum to address global challenges.

In her inaugural ad-

dress, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the G20 discussions in 2023 under the India Presidency will focus on exploring holistic solutions to most pressing global challenges.

“The G20 can transform lives around the globe by leveraging the complementary strengths of members while respecting country needs and circumstances. It can be an incubator of new ideas... and a forum to listen to the voices of the ‘Global South’,” Sitharaman said. Supporting the countries,

AI to hire 900 pilots, 4,200 cabin crew Gold falls Rs 80; silver Rs 767

NEW DELHI, FEB 24 (PTI): Air India plans to hire more than 4,200 cabin crew and 900 pilots this year as the Tata Group-owned airline expands its fleet and operations.

The announcement comes close on the heels of the carrier placing an order to buy 470 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, including 70 wide-body planes. The airline, which was taken over by the Tata Group in January 2022, also plans to lease 36 aircraft and out of them, two B 777200 LR have already been inducted.

In a release on Friday, Air India said it “plans to hire over 4,200 cabin crew trainees and 900 pilots in 2023 as the airline adds new aircraft and rapidly expands its domestic and international operations”.

Between May

2022-February 2023, the airline hired more than 1,900 cabin crew. “Over 1,100 cabin crew have been trained in the last seven months (between July 2022-January 2023), and in the past three months, approximately 500 cabin crew have been released for flying by the airline,” the release said.

Sandeep Verma, Head - Inflight Services at Air India, said the addition of fresh talent will accelerate the pace of cultural transformation at the airline and

added that it is also looking to step up hiring of more pilots and maintenance engineers.

The cabin crew will undergo a 15-week programme to impart safety and service skills, and will be coached to exemplify the best of Indian hospitality and Tata group culture. The training programme will include extensive classroom and inflight training at the airline’s training facility in Mumbai as well as familiarisation flights, the release said.

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

(PTI): Gold price fell Rs 80 to Rs 55,840 per 10 grams in the national capital on Friday amid weak global trends, according to HDFC Securities.

In the previous trade, the yellow metal had closed at Rs 55,920 per 10 grams. Silver also tumbled Rs 767 to Rs 64,517 per kilogramme. “Spot gold prices in the Delhi markets traded at Rs 55,840 per 10 grams, down Rs 80 per 10 grams,” said Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst - Commodities at HDFC Securities.

In the overseas market, gold and silver were quoting lower at USD 1,820 per ounce and USD 21.17 per ounce, respectively.

Comex Gold prices traded within lower range in Asian trading hours on Friday, Gandhi said.

most in need and reflecting the concerns, aspirations of developing countries will be central to India’s efforts in its G20 Presidency, Sitharaman said.

In a tweet, the finance ministry said the first session of the G20 FMCBG meeting was jointly steered by Sitharaman and Das and focused on issues relating to international financial architecture, sustainable finance and infrastructure.

The minister also sought views of the ministers and Governors on how multilateral development banks can be strengthened to address shared global challenges of the 21st century, while maintaining a focus on sustainable development goals and poverty eradication.

“FM highlighted the rising #DebtVulnerbilities in many vulnerable countries and sought views of the #G20 members on #MultilateralCoordination stating that managing global debt vulnerabilities would be crucial for the world economy,” the tweet said.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor inaugurates new dealership in Guwahati

GUWAHATI, FEB 24:

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), on Friday inaugurated its 17th customer touch point in the region. The brand new Poddar Toyota at Guwahati in Assam, resonates TKM’s commitment towards expanding its network in the country as well as delighting its customer in the region.

Speaking at the inauguration Toyota Kirloskar Motor, general manager, East Zone, Varinder Kumar Wadhwa, said “The North-Eastern part of the country is very important to TKM. We are glad to be able to continue our

growth in the region with the inauguration of Poddar Toyota, here in Guwahati. In-line with our ‘customer first’ approach and commitment of delivering ‘mass happiness to all’, this new dealership, will enable our patrons a speedier delivery & service of their favourite Toyota vehicle, and thus help cater to the increasing demand from Assam and its adjoining States.”

Expressing his gratitude to TKM Management as well as the local authorities & to the people of Assam, chairman of Poddar Toyota, Anand Poddar, said, ‘’It’s a privi-

Markets pare gains; Sensex, Nifty fall for 6th day

MUMBAI, FEB 24 (PTI): Benchmark indices pared early gains and ended lower on Friday in line with weak trend in Asian markets and concerns that the US Federal Reserve might raise interest rates further to curb inflation.

Fresh foreign fund outflows and selling pressure in HDFC twins also dented investor sentiments.

The BSE Sensex declined 141.87 points or 0.24 per cent to settle at 59,463.93 despite a firm start. During the day, it fell 280.46 points or 0.47 per cent to 59,325.34.

The NSE Nifty dipped 45.45 points or 0.26 per cent to end at 17,465.80.

“The Nifty opened on a positive note however it could not sustain at higher levels and as the day progressed it continued to drift lower to close the day on a

negative note for the sixth consecutive day,” said Jatin Gedia, Technical Research Analyst, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas.

In the Sensex pack, Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Maruti, Larsen & Toubro, HDFC, HDFC Bank, Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel were the major laggards.

Asian Paints, Bajaj Finserv, Power Grid, Reliance Industries, NTPC and UltraTech Cement were among the gainers.

“The domestic market is broadly demonstrating a lack of confidence, registering its sixth consecutive day of losses despite global markets turning green. Continued selling in the domestic market by FIIs is acting as an overhang in sustaining the early gains. Crude oil prices rallied as the prospect of lower Russian exports

outweighed rising US inventory,” said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.

In the broader market, the BSE midcap gauge dipped 0.17 per cent and smallcap index declined 0.15 per cent. Among the sectoral indices, metal tanked 2.39 per cent, commodities fell by 1.17 per cent, auto (0.99 per cent), reatlty (0.70 per cent), FMCG (0.40 per cent), power (0.38 per cent) and consumer discretionary (0.37 per cent). Energy, healthcare, consumer durables, oil & gas were the gainers.

In Asian markets, South Korea, China and Hong Kong ended lower, while Japan settled in the green. Equity markets in Europe were trading in the green during afternoon trade. The US markets ended higher on Thursday.

lege to be associated with Toyota Kirloskar Motor which has a strong legacy of building quality and superior vehicles. The Anand Poddar Group, having 60 years plus of experience in Automobile, Real Estate, Warehousing and Rubber Manufacturing Industry, has earned a name for itself through superior customer service in its various businesses. This dealership provides us with an opportunity to replicate the same high standards by leveraging our deep understanding of the Guwahati market. Together we will help our customers outperform.”

Govt has sold 18 LMT wheat in open market

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

(IANS): Food Corporation of In dia (FCI) has sold 18.05 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat in the open market through three e-auctions till date, after government decided to augment supplies last month in order to rein in rising prices of the essential commodity. Government plans to sell a total of 30 LMT wheat in the open market. About 11 LMT wheat has already been lifted by successful bidders which is available in the market. Open sale of wheat through e-auction shall take place every Wednesday till March 15, 2023 in an effort to augment wheat availability and safeguard the interests of consumers.

Coal production rises to 698 mn tonnes during April-Jan period of current fiscal

NEW DELHI, FEB 24 (IANS): Coal production grew by 16 per cent touching 698 million tonnes during April-January period of the current fi scal, against 601 million tonnes production recorded during the corresponding period of last year.

According to coal ministry sources, during the above mentioned period, Coal India Limited’s (CIL) production rose by 15.23 per cent to 550.93 million tonnes against 478.12 million tonnes recorded during the corresponding period of last year.

The increase in domestic coal production has helped the country curb

import to a large extent in the face of sharp increase in coal demand, arising due to continuous rise in power consumption.

The coal ministry has fixed the target of 1.31 billion tonnes for 2024-25, which it expects to go up to 1.5 billion tonnes by 2029-30.

The ministry has been actively engaging with various state governments and central government agencies for starting new coal mines and enhancing coal production in the currently operational mines.

As a result of this, pro-

du ction from captive and commercial coal mines increased to 93.22 million tonnes during April-January period of 22-23 from 71.31 million tonnes in the same period of 2021-22, showing a growth of more than 30 per cent.

Nirmala Sitharaman with RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das and other dignitaries during the 1st G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting, in Bengaluru, Friday. (pti)

Anand Poddar inaugurating new TKM dealership.

SNIPPETS

Gunmen kill at least 12 civilians in Mali village

BAMAKO, FEB 24 (AGENCIES): Gunmen have killed at least 12 civilians in an attack on a village in central Mali, two officials said on Friday, the latest reported attack in an area rife with jihadist activity, reports Reuters. The West African nation is battling a violent insurgency with links to al Qaeda and Islamic State that took root in its arid north following a Tuareg separatist rebellion in 2012. Militants have since spread to other countries in the Sahel region south of the Sahara and more recently to coastal states, seizing territory, killing thousands and uprooting millions in the process.

Pak court issues arrest warrant against minister

ISLAMABAD, FEB 24 (PTI): A Pakistani antiterrorism court issued a bailable arrest warrant against interior minister Rana Sanaullah on Friday for allegedly threatening the judiciary and preventing government officials from “fulfilling their lawful responsibilities” during his public speeches, media reports said. The case against Sanaullah, 68, was registered in August 2022.

During his public speeches last year and in 2021, the minister, a senior member of the ruling

Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N), threatened to stop the judiciary from doing its job and kill the children of Punjab police officials, the Dawn newspaper reported, quoting the FIR.

Poland delivers Leopard tank to Ukraine

KYIV, FEB 24 (AP): Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawieck has delivered the first Leopard tanks to Ukraine during his visit to Kyiv on Friday, the anniversary of the Russian invasion, the president said. Andrzej

Duda told a meeting of the National Security Council he was happy that Poland was the first nation to offer the advanced tanks to Ukraine.

Poland has pledged 14 German-made Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine and called on other European nations to follow suit. It was unclear how many tanks arrived on Friday.

Cambodia confirms 2nd human case of bird flu

PHNOM PENH, FEB 24

(IANS): Cambodia’s Ministry of Health (MoH) said on Friday that it has detected the second human case of H5N1 avian influenza, or bird flu, after an 11-year-old girl died of the virus recently. A 49-year-old man from southeastern Prey Veng province tested positive for the H5N1 virus by the National Institute of Public Health on Friday, the MoH said in a statement, adding that the man is the father of the 11-year-old girl, who died of the virus on Wednesday.

Tibetans tell relatives abroad to not call them

NEW DELHI, FEB 24

(IANS): Tibetans in Tibet have told their relatives in exile to refrain from contacting them this week during the Tibetan New Year called Losar, citing fears of being persecuted by Chinese authorities amid increase in surveillance activities and surprise security searches during the politically sensitive time, sources in the region said. Chinese authorities have clamped down on Tibetans during Losar, celebrated on February 20-26 this year, with cellphone checks and raids in Lhasa, Xigatse and Chamdo, the sources said, Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported.

Zelenskyy pledges push for victory on war anniv

would bring, but we clearly understood that for each tomorrow, you need to fight.

And we fought,” he said in an early morning video address. It was “the longest

10 killed, over 20 injured in riots in Indonesia’s Papua province

day of our lives. The hardest day of our modern history. We woke up early and haven’t fallen asleep since,” he said.

Ukrainians attended

President

KYIV/LISBON, FEB 24

(AP): Ukraine’s president pledged to push for victory in 2023 as he and other Ukrainians on Friday marked the somber first anniversary of the Russian invasion that he called “the longest day of our lives.”

As morning broke on a day of commemorations and reflection, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy struck a tone of grim defi-

ance and used the anniversary to congratulate Ukrainians on their resilience in the face of Europe’s biggest and deadliest war since World War II.

He said they had proven themselves to be invincible in what he called “a year of pain, sorrow, faith and unity.”

“We survived the first day of the full-scale war. We didn’t know what tomorrow

memorials, held vigils and other remembrances for their tens of thousands of dead — a toll growing all the time as fighting rages in eastern Ukraine in particular.

Wrecked Russian tank, skull and silence mark war anniv

A wrecked Russian tank put on display in Berlin, a bloody cake with a skull on top of it left in a Belgrade street and Ukraine’s yellowand-blue flag held aloft in the sizzling Bangkok sun were among the memorials, stunts and ceremonies held across the world Friday to mark the anniversary of Moscow’s full-scale invasion of its neighbour. The rusting T-72 tank was placed outside the prominent Russian Embassy building on the German capital’s Unter den Linden boulevard. The tank was struck in the Kyiv region in the early stages of the war, which began on Feb. 24, 2022. It was taken to Berlin

84% uranium enrichment allegation a ‘conspiracy’: Iran

report, saying only “that the IAEA is discussing with Iran the results of recent agency verification activities.”

In an interview with Iranian state television’s English-language arm, Press T V highlighted Friday, Kamalvandi dismissed what inspectors may have found as “a particle of an atom that cannot be seen even under a microscope.”

DUBAI, FEB 24 (AP): Iranian state television on Friday offered an extended defence against an accusation attributed to international inspectors that it enriched uranium to 84 per cent purity, with an official calling it part of a “conspiracy” against Tehran amid tensions over its nuclear program.

The comments by Behrouz Kamalvandi, a spokesman for Iran’s civilian nuclear programme, sought to portray any detection of uranium particles enriched to that level as a momentary side effect of trying to reach a finished product of 60 per cent purity — which Tehran already has announced producing.

However, uranium at 84 per cent is at nearly weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent — meaning any stockpile of that material

could be quickly used to produce an atomic bomb if Iran chooses. Tehran long has insisted its program is for peaceful purposes, though the International Atomic Energy Agency, Western intelligence agencies and nonproliferation experts say Iran pursued a secret nuclear weapons program up until 2003.

The allegation IAEA inspectors found 84 per cent enriched uranium threatens to further escalate tensions between Iran and the West. Already, Israel’s recently reinstalled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened military actions against Tehran.

Bloomberg first reported Sunday that inspectors had detected uranium particles enriched up to 84 per cent. The IAEA, a United Nations agency based in Vienna, has not denied the

He described Iran’s uranium centrifuge cascades as producing particles at varying purity that later form a final product of 60 per cent.

“It doesn’t matter because the end product is what matters,” Kamalvandi said. “If we really want to enrich 20 per cent more, we will announce it very easily.

So it is clear that there is a conspiracy here.”

Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal limited Tehran’s uranium enrichment to 3.67 per cent — enough to fuel a nuclear power plant. The US unilaterally withdrew from the accord in 2018. Since then, a shadow war between Israel and Iran has erupted across the wider Middle East.

Iran now produces uranium enriched to 60 per cent purity — a level at which nonproliferation experts already say Tehran has no civilian use.

Russia launches rescue ship to space station after leaks

and Russia’s Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitri Petelin back in their damaged Soyuz next month as originally planned. With no coolant, the cabin temperature would spike during the trip back to Earth, potentially damaging computers and other equipment, and exposing the suited-up crew to excessive heat.

by a private group, which said that the Ukrainian defence ministry’s Military History Museum loaned it. Destroyed Russian armour litters parts of Ukraine after months of battlefield

Khalistanis target Indian consulate in Australia

MELBOURNE, FEB 24 (IANS): Following vandalisation of Hindu temples, Khalistani flags were found attached to the Indian consulate in Brisbane, just days after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Australia. According to The Australia Today, Honorary Consul of India in Brisbane Archana Singh found the Khalistan flag attached to the office on February 22.

“Police are surveilling the area to keep us safe. We have strong faith in police authority,” Singh, who had informed the Queensland police immediately about the incident, said. The incident, which took place on February 21, comes just days after two Hindu temples received threatening calls from Khalistani supporters. In one of the calls, the President and the Vice President of Gayatri Mandir in Brisbane were asked to raise ‘Khalistan Zindabad’ slogans and support the referendum. Before this, the Kali Mata temple in Melbourne received a threat call this week, asking it to cancel a religious event or face consequences. Beginning 2023, Hindu temples in Australia and Canada have seen a spurt in vandal attacks by Khalistani elements defacing the walls with anti-India slogans and graffiti.

setbacks for the Kremlin’s forces.

Moscow planned no special events for Friday, as most Russians took a nationwide day off amid an extended public holiday.

MOSCOW, FEB 23 (AP): Russia launched a rescue ship on Friday for two cosmonauts and a NASA astronaut whose original ride home sprang a dangerous leak while parked at the International Space Station.

The new, empty Soyuz capsule should arrive at the orbiting lab on Sunday. The capsule leak in December was blamed on a micrometeorite that punctured an external radiator, draining it of coolant. The same thing appeared to happen again earlier this month, this time on a docked Russian cargo ship. Camera views showed a small hole in each spacecraft. The Russian Space Agency delayed

the launch of the replacement Soyuz, looking for any manufacturing defects. No issues were found, and the agency proceeded with Friday’s predawn launch from Kazakhstan of the capsule with bundles of supplies strapped into the three seats. Given the urgent need for this capsule, two top NASA officials traveled from the U.S. to observe the launch in person. To everyone’s relief, the capsule safely reached orbit nine minutes after liftoff — “a perfect ride to orbit,” NASA Mission Control’s Rob Navias reported from Houston. Officials had determined it was too risky to bring NASA’s Frank Rubio

(INDONESIA),

JAYAPURA

FEB 24 (AP): Ten people were killed and more than 20 others wounded in a riot in Indonesia’s Papua province, police said on Friday.

The riots began on Thursday afternoon in Wamena town in the Jayawijaya district of Papua, the country’s easternmost province, amid reports of a child kidnapping.

Local police who had responded to a report about the kidnapping — which police later said was a hoax — were attacked with rocks and arrows. Officers fired warning shots, hoping the people would disperse, Papua police spokesperson Ignatius Benny Ady Prabowo said in a written statement on Friday.

“The masses, who were increasingly anarchic, did not want to listen to the appeals from the officers. They did not want to dis-

perse when they were given warning shots and even attacked the officers with arrows,” Prabowo said.

Two civilians died after allegedly being hit by arrows and sharp weapons.

At least 20 people were wounded in the riots, including 18 police and military officers. Rioters also burned shophouses and other buildings, set up roadblocks and attacked vehicles. Prabowo said the situation was now “recovering and under control”.

Security officers were in the area and leaders pledged to investigate the incident.

Tensions in the restive region have spiked in the past year, with dozens of rebels, security forces and civilians killed in clashes.

A pilot from New Zealand was taken hostage by separatist rebels in Papua in early February.

Israel’s outpost approvals boost settlers, deepen conflict

GIVAT HAREL (WEST BANK)/JERUSALEM, FEB 24 (AP): One day in the fall of 1998, Shivi Drori, a young farmer fresh out of the Israeli army, brought three trailers to a rugged hilltop deep in the occupied West Bank and began to plant raspberries.

It was an unauthorised settlement in the heart of territory claimed by the Palestinians, but Drori, now 49, said he considered himself to be “in a way, working with the government”. Today, more than 90 Jewish families live in what has become the thriving village of Givat Harel — full of concrete homes with breathtaking views, a crowded nursery and an award-winning vineyard.

Just down the road is Turmus Aya, a Palestinian village that lost part of its land to the nearby Shilo settlement two decades ago. One of the villagers, Amal Abu Awad, 58, has watched her world shrink since the settlers arrived.

She said settlers prevented her late husband from reaching his grazing land and periodically uprooted her olive trees. Last week, masked vandals attacked her house, armed with clubs and knives, shouting insults as they smashed windows and broke her solar

YikhUM ekhUNG WOkhA tOWN

c OND e MNAti ON NO te

The Yikhum Ekhung Wokha Town condemns the series of blast occurring at the residence of its bonafide members, residing at Wokha Town by unknown miscreants.

Firstly, on the 16th February 2023 at the residence of Mr. Chubathung Odyuo and secondly on 21st of February 2023 at the residence of Mr. Daniel Kithan. Both the incidents happened at night in Likya Colony, Wokha.

The YEWT urge the Law enforcing agency to take control of the situation and necessary measures be taken up for ensuring safety to the public. The YEWT also appeal to all to abstain from such kind of heinous act for peaceful co-existence.

Sd/chichanbemo kikon chairman, YeWt WC-34/23

Joint Colony CounCil Resolution

The Joint Colony Council comprising of Lake View Colony, Khermahal and Neisatuo Colony declare that in the upcoming 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly Election, no outsiders will be allowed to enter the polling station to ensure a free, fair and peaceful election. Failing to comply with this direction will be doing so at their own risk.

panels. Her seven sons now take turns perching on the roof overnight, watching out for vigilantes.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s new farright government announced last week it would legalize Givat Harel, along with nine other unauthorised West Bank outposts, boosting settlers’ morale and strengthening their hold on the land.

Drori’s village, on a ridge between the Palestinian cities of Ramallah and Nablus, is part of an extensive network of 150 outposts now home to some 20,000 settlers, according to antisettlement watchdog Peace Now.

Israeli settlers shoot, wound 2 Palestinians in West Bank: Israeli settlers

shot and seriously wounded two Palestinians in the northern occupied West Bank early on Friday, Palestinian health officials said, in what authorities describe as the latest incident in a wave of settler violence. The Palestinian Health Ministry said the two wounded Palestinians were being treated at a hospital in the village of Qusra, near the West Bank city of Nablus. It did not identify the men.

A group of armed settlers from a nearby outpost descended on the village and Palestinians went into the street to see what was happening late Thursday, said Ghassan Douglas, the Palestinian official who monitors Israeli settlements in the Nablus region.

Office O f the WOZ h URO RANG e PUBL ic ORGAN i SAti ON Di S t. W O kh A : N AGALAND c OND e MNAti ON

The Wozhuro Range Public Organisation (WRPO) condemn the incident happened on 22nd Feb 2023 in which Mr. Mhonbemo Patton of Phiro Village 38 A/C Wokha, a bonafide member of WRPO was trespassed and assaulted by miscreants at his residence at Church Colony, Wokha. We the WRPO appealed the law enforcing agencies to deliver justice and punish the culprit according to the law. We also wish to have a peaceful environment for the upcoming 14th General Election 2023.

Sd/- Sd/Janbemo Ovung thechamo tsanglao Media Secy., WRPO Chairman, WRPO WC-35/23

offiCe of the nDPP 23 imPuR Assembly ConstituenCy Re

JO i ND e R

In rejoinder to the advertisements published in Ao Milen on 21st Feb and Nagaland Post on 22nd Feb 2023, wherein it stated that few individuals have tendered their resignation from 23 Impur A /C NDPP, this is to clarify to all concerned that the 23 Impur A /C NDPP office is intact and fully functional. It so happened that when Late Dr. Imtiwapang Aier MLA left the NPF and joined NDPP, these few individuals who were with Late MLA also joined the NDPP party taking the primary and active membership of NDPP. However these individuals just remained in the office without taking any part as they lacked the party vision and objectives, akin to a bat. Therefore, in order to make the air of confusion clear, the 23 Impur A /C NDPP office hereby appeal all not to be swayed away by such cheap propaganda in the future.

Sd/- Sd/Wapangtemsu temjennungsang President General Secretary NDPP NDPP 23 Impur A/C 23 Impur A/C

Ukrainian

Volodymyr Zelenskyy (L) holds the flag of a military unit as an officer kisses it in Kyiv Friday.

A man dressed as a peace angel stands in front of a Russian tank, destroyed in Ukraine, in Berlin on Friday. (AP/PTI)

The new, empty Soyuz MS-23 capsule blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, on Friday.

A man dressed as a peace angel stands in front of a Russian tank, destroyed in Ukraine, in Berlin, Germany, Friday. (AP/PTI)

Space telescope uncovers massive galaxies near cosmic dawn

Astronomers have discovered what appear to be massive galaxies dating back to within 600 million years of the Big Bang, suggesting the early universe may have had a stellar fast-track that produced these “monsters.”

While the new James Webb Space Telescope has spotted even older galaxies, dating to within a mere 300 million years of the beginning of the universe, it’s the size and maturity of these six apparent mega-galaxies that stun scientists. They reported their findings Wednesday. Lead researcher Ivo Labbe of Australia’s Swinburne University of Technology and his team expected to find little baby galaxies this close to the dawn of the universe — not these whoppers.

“While most galaxies in this era are still small and only gradually growing larger over time,” he said in an email, “there are a few monsters that fast-track to maturity. Why this is the case or how this would work is unknown.” Each of the six objects looks to weigh billions of times more than our sun. In one of them, the total weight of all its stars may be as much as 100 billion times greater than our sun, according to the scientists, who

Steven

published their findings in the journal Nature.

Yet these galaxies are believed to be extremely compact, squeezing in as many stars as our own Milky Way, but in a relatively tiny slice of space, according to Labbe.

Labbe said he and his team didn’t think the results were real at first — that there couldn’t be galaxies as mature as the Milky Way so early in time — and they still need to be confirmed. The objects appeared so big and bright that some members of the team thought they had made a mistake. “We were mind-blown, kind of incredulous,” Labbe said.

The Pennsylvania State University’s Joel Leja, who took part in the study, calls them “universe breakers.”

“The revelation that massive galaxy formation began extremely early in the history of the universe upends what many of us had thought was settled science,” Leja said in a statement. “It turns out we found something so unexpected it actually creates problems for science. It calls the whole picture of early galaxy formation into question.”

These galaxy observations were among the first data set that came from the $10 bil -

lion Webb telescope, launched just over a year ago. NASA and the European Space Agency’s Webb is considered the successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, coming up on the 33rd anniversary of its launch. Unlike Hubble, the bigger and more powerful Webb can peer through clouds of dust with its infrared vision and discover galaxies previously unseen. Scientists hope to eventually observe the first stars and galaxies formed following the creation of the universe 13.8 billion years ago.

Roscosmos: Russian spacecraft leak caused by external impact

The researchers still are awaiting official confirmation through sensitive spectroscopy, careful to call these candidate massive galaxies for now. Leja said it’s possible that a few of the objects might not be galaxies, but obscured supermassive black holes. While some may prove to be smaller, “odds are good at least some of them will turn out to be” galactic giants, Labbe said. “The next year will tell us.”

One early lesson from Webb is “to let go of your expectations and be ready to be surprised,” he said. (AP)

Yeun joins Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Thunderbolts’

Steven Yeun is joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Oscar-nominated actor will make his first appearance in “Thunderbolts,” joining the star-studded cast of Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

It’s not clear who Yeun is playing in the film, which is expected to start shooting in June. It’s likely that his character, whoever it may be, will play a role in the future of the sprawling MCU.

Jake Schreier is directing “Thunderbolts,” which

is due in theaters on July 26, 2024. The anti-hero adventure is intended to conclude the MCU’s Phase Five, which began with “Ant-Man and the Wasp:

Quantumania” and continues with “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” and “The Marvels,” “Captain America: New World Order,” “Blade” and “Deadpool 3.”

Eric Pearson (“Black Widow”) is writing the script, which has been kept under wraps. In the comics, “Thunderbolts” brings together several bad guys across the MCU to carry out a mission for the government. On-screen, the recruits include Louis-Dreyfus as Contessa Valentina Allegra de la Fontaine, Pugh as Yelena Belova, David Harbour as Red Guardian, Stan as Bucky Barnes, Olga Kurylenko as Taskmaster and Wyatt Russell as John Walker. “The Bear” break-

out star Ayo Edebiri also recently joined the cast in an undisclosed role.

Yeun, who broke out on “The Walking Dead” and received an Oscar nomination for “Minari,” recently starred in Jordan Peele’s UFO thriller “Nope.” Up next, he is teaming with director Bong Joon Ho and Robert Pattinson for “Micky 17,” a sci-fi movie set at Warner Bros. He is repped by CAA, Principal Entertainment and Gotham Group. (Yahoo entertainment)

The difference between walking and running

Both walking and running are great ways to get cardiovascular exercise. But is one a better exercise than the other?

Benefits of Cardio Exercise

Cardio, or aerobic, exercise is anything that gets you breathing harder and your heart beating faster.

Some of the benefits of a cardio workout include:

Reduced risk of dementia

Improved memory

Increased circulation

Better blood sugar control

Happier mood

An easier time falling asleep

Healthier cholesterol levels

Better erectile function

For many people, running is a vigorous exercise, while walking tends to be moderate in intensity.

Vigorous activity is when you’re breathing fast and hard, and your heart rate has gone up a lot. You may also find it hard to say more than a few words without stopping to take a breath.

In general, one minute of vigorous activity is equal to 2 minutes of moderate-intensity activity.

Experts recommend that you get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. They also say you should do muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

Walking vs. Running

There are some key differences between walking and running.

Starting exercise. If you’re just getting into exercise or are out of shape, start with walking short distances, then gradually increase your distance and duration. Even walking at a casual pace of 2 miles per hour can cut your risk of heart problems by 31%, if you do it regularly.

Burning calories. Running burns more than twice as many calories per minute as walking.

For a person who weighs 160 pounds, walking at a pace of

3.5 miles per hour for 30 minutes burns about 156 calories. Running at 6 mph for the same time burns about 356 calories. Low impact vs. high impact. You might think of walking as just running slowly. But when you walk, you have one foot on the ground at all times. When you run, you’re in the air during each stride. Each time you land, your body absorbs the impact of about three times your body weight.

Osteoarthritis risk. Because it’s more strenuous, you might think that running would increase your risk of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis happens when the cushion between your bones (cartilage) wears down, and your joints get painful and swollen.

But a study of 74,752 runners and 14,625 walkers found that the runners had a lower risk of hip replacement and osteoarthritis than the walkers. Researchers said that this may be because, on average, the runners had lower body mass indices (BMI) than the walkers. Less body weight means less stress on your bones.

Risk of injury. Researchers say runners and others who do high-impact exercise are more likely to get injured than walkers. But it’s hard to say exactly how

much higher the risk is. Various studies have found that between 19% and 79% of runners get hurt while running.

About 80% of running injuries are overuse injuries. Researchers found that running just once a week may lead to overuse injuries. Those who run farther and more often are also more prone to injuries.

A previous leg injury puts you at higher risk for running-related leg injuries. Researchers found that orthotics and shoe inserts aren’t good at preventing running injuries.

Common running injuries include:

Runner’s knee

Achilles tendonitis

Shin splints

Plantar fasciitis

Stress fractures

Iliotibial band syndrome

Walkers have a much lower risk of getting hurt. In a study of 14,536 college students who did various types of physical activity, those who walked had some of the lowest rates of injury.

Both Running and Walking Are Great Forms of Exercise

Scientists who looked at information from 33,060 runners and 15,945 walkers found that walking can lower your risk of

Unity College, Dimapur held its second annual youth fest ‘Unifest 2.0’ in the college premises from February 22 and 23 under the theme “Invigorating Young Minds.”

In a press release, the college informed that the events of the first day comprised of art competition, cosplay, dance competition, essay writing, extempore speech, fitness challenge, food-eating chal-

lenge, photography exhibition and slam poetry.

Yemjong Chang ‘The Illusionist’ entertained the audience with some eye-deceiving tricks and illusions. Day one concluded with an enthralling performance by the renowned pop rock band The Gluttones.

The second day of the fest witnessed a variety of competitions in the genres of indigenous food cooking, indigenous games, Voice of Unity V.8.0 and

Unifest Mega Model. This was followed by the distribution of prizes and certificates to the winners, after which the crowd was treated to an electrifying performance by rapper and songwriter, Moko Koza. The two-day fest concluded with a thrilling experience for the students grooving and dancing to the tune of DJ Rhon. Unifest2.0 was an exposure for the youth to exhibit their talents and aspirations.

Eat breakfast to ward off risk of cancer, heart disease

Are you one of those busy bees often skipping breakfast?

Here’s why you should never miss out on the largest meal of the day.

Not eating the first meal of the day could make you inefficient in fighting off infections that can make you prone to a range of diseases from heart disease to cancer, according to a new animal study.

diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure as much as running. They measured exercise by time, not distance.

Since walking is less vigorous than running, you’ll have to walk longer or more often to get the same benefits. Running is more efficient, but has a higher risk of injuries, and you’ll need more time to heal if you get injured.

The best exercise for you is the one you’ll actually do. So whether it’s running, walking, or both, pick the one you like best.

How to Get More Out of Your Walk

Here are some ways to improve your walking workout.

Walk in a group. Walking with friends or family can make it more fun. It can also help you stick to your exercise plan.

Swing your arms. Bend your arms at 90 degrees and swing your arms naturally as you walk. Swinging them vigorously encourages you to walk faster. It also gives your upper body more of a workout. You’ll burn 5% to 10% more calories, too.

Try incline walking. If you walk on a treadmill, increase the incline by 5% or 10%. If you walk outdoors, look for hills or even a steep driveway to make your walk more challenging. Water walking. Do this in shallow water at the beach or in a pool. The resistance of the water increases the intensity of your walk but lessens the impact on your joints.

Walking poles. Walking poles can help you burn up to 30% more calories. They add intensity and help you maintain good posture as you walk.

Weighted vests. A weighted vest adds intensity but doesn’t strain your shoulders and wrists like ankle and hand weights do. Pick one that’s 5% to 10% of your body weight.

(WrittenbyWebMDEditorialContributors)

The research, led by a team at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, showed that skipping meals triggers a response in the brain that negatively affects immune cells. It could also lead to a better understanding of how chronic fasting may affect the body long term. “There is a growing awareness that fasting is healthy, and there is indeed abundant evidence for the benefits of fasting. Our study provides a word of caution as it suggests that there may also be a cost to fasting that carries a health risk,” said lead author Filip Swirski, Director of the Cardiovascular Research Institute at Icahn.

The study, published

in the journal Immunity, analysed two groups of mice: one group ate breakfast right after waking up, and the other group had no breakfast.

Researchers collected blood samples in both groups when mice woke up, then four hours later, and eight hours later. They found differences in monocytes -- white blood cells that are made in the bone marrow and travel through the body, where they play many critical roles, from fighting infections, to heart disease, to cancer.

After four hours, 90 per cent of monocytes in mice from the fasting group disappeared from the bloodstream, and the number further declined at eight hours.

Meanwhile monocytes in the non-fasting group were unaffected.

In fasting mice, researchers discovered the monocytes travelled back to the bone marrow to hibernate, affecting the production of new cells in the bone marrow. Next, the researchers continued to fast mice for up to 24 hours, and then reintroduced food. The cells hiding in the bone marrow surged back into the bloodstream within a few hours. This surge led to heightened levels of inflammation. Instead of protecting against infection, these altered monocytes were more inflammatory, making the body less resistant to fighting infection. (IANS)

Students in cosplay costumes at the fest.

EUROPA LEAGUE: Man Utd, Berlin in last-16

highly motivated and staged a lively opening period. Clear-cut opportunities were at a premium, but that changed with 20 minutes gone as Ajax’s Calvin Bassey conceded a handball penalty.

Robin Knoche stepped up and kept his cool from the spot after beating Ajax goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli with the assistance of the inside post, a Xinhua report said.

in the second half when Kudus latched onto Steven Bergwijn’s cross in the 47th minute.

Union remained unimpressed, though and restored its two-goal lead three minutes later through Dutchman Danilho Doekhi, who hammered Juranovic’s whipped corner to the back post into the roof of the net from close range.

BER

MAN CHESTER/

LIN, FEB 24 (

AGEN

CIES/ IANS): Manchester United knocked Barcelona out of the Europa League with a frantic 2-1 win at Old Trafford. Erik ten Hag’s team came from behind to book their place in the last16 thanks to second half goals from Fred and substitute Anthony, reports espn.

in. Robert Lewandowski’s first-half penalty had given Barcelona the lead but after losing the tie 4-3 on aggregate, the Spanish giants are left to focus on their LaLiga and the Copa del Rey campaigns.

United, meanwhile, are still in four competitions and head to Wembley for the Carabao Cup final

against Newcastle United on Sunday on a high Union Berlin upset Ajax Union Berlin advanced into the UEFA Europa League last-16 for the first time after clinching a 3-1 win over Ajax Amsterdam at the play-off second leg on late Thursday night.

Both teams s tarted

Ajax had to wait until the 40th minute to create danger in front of the target, but for all that, Mohammed Kudus pulled wide from five meters with all time and space. The Dutch visitors could have opened their scoring three minutes later, but Kudus’ equalizer was flagged offside. At the other end of the pitch, Josip Juranovic’s curl shot caught Rulli flat-footed, making it 2-0 just before the break.

Ajax came out with its guns blazing after the restart and halved the deficit early

Carlos beats Fabio Fognini to reach Rio Open QFs

a player like Fabio. He’s a great player with a lot of talent,” Alcaraz said after the dramatic clay court duel.

“You never know what he might have in store for you.”

Fognini, a 35-year-old veteran with nine singles titles, went down 3-0 to the defending champion in the opening set, before battling back with a string of masterful rallies.

He broke Alcaraz’s serve to equalize at 5-5, then won the set in a tiebreaker.

But Alcaraz roared back in the second, going up 4-0, and carried his momentum through the final set to take the match.

The dramatic display had the crowd at stadium court fired up.

Alcaraz will face Dusan Lajovic in the quarterfinals on Friday. The 80th-ranked Lajovic beat 57th-ranked Laslo Djere 6-2, 6-4 in an all-Serbian showdown.

Alcaraz, who returned last week from a four-month injury break, is looking to rekindle the magic he unleashed last year in Brazil. Then, he won the Rio Open on his way to racking up five titles, including the US Open, and becoming the youngest-ever world number one in the ATP rankings -- a spot he has now lost to Novak Djokovic after struggling with injuries.

Ajax’s resistance was broken, whereas Union’s Sheraldo Becker left two presentable chances unused in the closing stages.

Frustrated, Ajax had to complete the match with ten men as Edson Alvarez received his marching orders for unsportsmanlike conduct in the dying minutes of the game.

“It can’t get any better now. I am so proud. The boys showed great will and mentality against Ajax. Of course, you always need some luck to win these games,” said Union coach Urs Fischer.

EINDHOVEN, FEB 24, (AGENCIES): Sevilla goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic was attacked by a pitch invader as PSV Eindhoven beat their Spanish opponents on the night but lost 3-2 on aggregate, reports BBC Sports. Trailing 3-0 from the Europa League knockout round play-off first leg, PSV scored two late goals

through Luuk de Jong and Fabio Silva. But Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side could not find a crucial third goal.

Dmitrovic, 31, was approached by a fan who swung a punch before being wrestled to the ground by the Serbian keeper.

The pitch invader was eventually led away by stewards after the incident in the

closing stages of the match. Dmitrovic, whose former clubs include Charlton Athletic, was able to carry on as his side sealed a place in the last 16. The Serbia international told reporters afterwards: “It’s never nice to see this in football. It shouldn’t happen and, from now on, I hope these things are well punished.

Qatar Open: Murray beats Muller to reach semi-finals

QATAR, FEB 24 (AGENCIES): Britain’s Andy Murray reached his first ATP semi-final since June by going the distance again to beat French qualifier Alexandre Muller at the Qatar Open, reports BBC Sports.

Murray, 35, fought back to win 4-6 6-1 6-2 against 26-year-old Muller, who was playing in his first ATP quarter-final. The Scot will play Jiri Lehecka in the last four after the 21-year-old Czech beat top seed Andrey Rublev.

“He is one of the best young players on the tour, it’ll be a big test for me,” said former world number one Murray.

However, the issue for Murray in recent months has been recovering from gruelling battles in time for the next match.

did that by breaking for 2-0 before a careless third game allowed Muller to break back.

Play ing smarter and serving strongly, he denied Muller the time he had in the opening set to pick his shots and Murray’s level remained high in the decider.

“I would love to win one [title]but I have goals to achieve more than that,” Murray, who triumphed in Doha in 2008 and 2009, said.

“I am putting myself in a position now to do that going into the last couple of matches.

From that point the Frenchman relaxed and showed his power on the way to winning the first set in 53 minutes.

NEW

DELHI, FEB

24 (AGENCIES): World number two Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the quarterfinals of the ATP Rio Open by defeating 86th-ranked Fabio Fognini of Italy in

a thriller on Thursday, reports Times of India. The 19-year-old Spanish phenom won 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4, battling back after losing the first set.

“It’s a challenge facing

“You energized both Fabio and me from the start, thank you so much,” Alcaraz told the fans.

“We played a great match. I’m very happy I managed to win.”

“They were also in agreement that there is no precedent to require a bowler to give a warning to a batter, confirming they are completely within their right to dismiss the batter on the first occasion they break the Law,” it added.

The WCC comprises greats of the game including Kumar Sanakkara, Sourav Ganguly, Justin Langer, Alastair Cook, with Mike Gatting being the chairman.

LONDON, FEB 24 (PTI):

No bowler can be dubbed a villain for running out a batter, who is attempting to steal ground at the non-striker’s end, the World Cricket Committee of the MCC asserted as it sought normalisation of the dismissal at all age-group levels.

The WCC also called for “calm” on the contentious issue as a few former cricketers still believe that the mode of dismissal is against the spirit of the game despite the ICC ruling that it will be counted as ‘run out’ rather than ‘unfair play’.

Last month, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) the custodians of the laws of the game, issued a clarification to the wording of the law following an incident in which Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa attempted to run-out nonstriker Tom Rogers in a Big Bash game in January.

The clarification involved changing the wording of Law 38.3 to deliver better clarity and dispel “miscon-

ceptions” on it.

The WCC, which met at the ICC headquarters in Dubai last week, is now calling for calm across all levels of the game -- from the recreational cricket to the elite level-- given that the act of running out a non-striker who opts to steal ground is within the laws of the game.

“The overriding factor is that there is a simple way that all confusion and controversy around this form of dismissal can be eradicated - by non-strikers complying with the Law and remaining within their ground until they have seen the ball being released from the bowler’s hand,” the MCC said in a statement on Thursday.

“Part of the discussion in Dubai touched on the growing narrative for the bowler to be vilified for this type of dismissal. The committee members were unanimous in their view that the batter stealing ground is the one breaking the Laws of the game and therefore deserving of recrimination.

“The bowler is not the villain here. Every batter has a choice; to stay in their ground, or risk being given out if they try to steal ground. If they choose the latter, they are the ones who are breaking the Law,” said Sri Lankan great Sangakkara.

Gatting added: “We have seen suggestions that this method of dismissal will be attempted more and more at recreational level and there is the possibility of matches descending into chaos.

“Whilst attempts may increase in the short term, we would expect batters to learn their responsibilities under the Laws very quickly and drive it out of prominence. “Although the wording of the Law has recently been clarified, the timing of when the run out can be attempted is unchanged since 2017, so very little has actually changed. “Our stance on this is simple – batters must not steal ground if they do not wish to be given out in this manner. Nor should they be expecting to be given a warning if they do.

Alcaraz opened his title defence in Rio by winning a tougher-than-expected, rain-delayed match against 556th-ranked Mateus Alves of Brazil on Wednesday. He made his 2023 debut last week by winning his seventh career ATP title at the Argentina Open.

“He has started the year extremely well, did well at the Australian Open and hits a huge ball.”

Murray, who last reached the semi-finals of a tournament at the Stuttgart Open, has long been targeting deeper runs and playing against the inexperienced Muller provided a fantastic opportunity.

All of his four previous wins in 2023 had gone to a deciding set, showcasing Murray’s fighting spirit and physical endurance.

This quarter-final - less than 24 hours after a long and gutsy win over Germany’s former world number two Alexander Zverev - followed the same pattern.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray, seemingly sensing a quick start would be beneficial after a short turnaround,

Ministry unhappy with top wrestlers for skipping int’l meets

NEW DELHI, FEB 24 (PTI): The Sports Ministry is apparently livid with country’s top wrestlers for opting out of international events in the wake of their ongoing stand-off with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

The top wrestlers including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Ravi Dahiya, Deepak Punia, Anshu Malik and Sangita Mor have skipped UWW Ranking Series events in Zagreb and Alexandria as a probe panel is investigating the sexual abuse allegations against WFI chief, who has stepped aside pending enquiry.

The move has irked

the government, which provides financial assistance to the wrestlers under Target Olympics Podium Scheme (TOPS) to support their preparation and training.

“We don’t get it why they are not competing when their demands have been met. We need to give time to the committee to complete its probe. It is wrestlers’ decision and we can’t force anyone but they should not have missed the events,” a ministry official said. The sport is currently being run by a six-member Oversight Committee, led by legendary boxer MC Mary Kom.

The committee is investigating into the claims that Brij Bhushan has sexu-

ally harassed several women wrestlers and also intimidates the athletes. The ministry was forced to set up the panel after the wrestlers staged a sit-in protest at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, demanding that Brij Bhushan be removed from the top post and WFI be disbanned.

The ministry asked the committee, formed on January 23, to submit its report within four weeks and asked Brij Bhushan to step aside till the completion of the probe.

As per the earlier deadline, the committee was scheduled to submit its report on February 23 but the ministry has given a twoweek extension after being asked for some more time.

One of Murray’s trademarks is his resilience and he responded by upping his level in the second set.

“I feel like these last few weeks are a step in the right direction and if I continue to play and compete like I am now, that I will have not just one opportunity to win a title but I will have more chances to do that in this last stage of my career.”

FUNERAL SERVICE

It is with deep sorrow we share the news about the sad demise of Mrs. Barbara Lewis, Proprietor of Lewis Academy (Montessory Nursery school). The funeral will take place on the 25th of February, 2023 at 11:00 am at Lewis Academy, Lane 7A, Kevijau Colony, Dimapur.

DC-XXXX

Sevilla keeper Marko Dmitrovic wrestles the fan to the ground.

Antony scored the game-winner for Manchester United over Barcelona.

Andy Murray

Carlos Alcaraz of Spain returns the ball to Fabio Fognini of Italy. (Photo Credit: AP)

Bowler is not villain here, it’s the nonstriker who is breaking rules: MCC

Adam Zampa ran out Tom Rogers at a Big Bash match.

SA reach maiden Women’s T20 WC final

CAPE TOWN, FEB 24 (PTI): Pacers Shabnim Ismail and Ayabonga Khaka shared seven wickets between them as South Africa staged a spectacular fightback to stun England by six runs and enter their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup final here on Friday.

Openers Laura Wolvaardt (53) and Tazmin Britz (68) struck entertaining half-centuries to take South Africa to 164 for four in the second semifinal at Newlands.

The game went down to the wire thanks to the efforts of Ismail (3/27) and Khaka (4/29), who both came up with momentum changing overs. The 2009 champions England ended with 158 for eight in 20 overs. Danielle Wyatt (34) and Sophia Dunkley (28) made a flying start to take England to 53 for no loss in five overs.

Star pacer Ismail brought back South Africa in the game with a double strike in the sixth over. Both Dunkley and incoming batter Alice Capsey (0) were caught at midwicket by

Britz. The one-handed catch to dismiss Capsey off a short ball stood out among the four catches she took in the game. With 81 needed off last 60 balls and eight wickets in hand, England were expected to complete the task before South Africa made a roaring comeback, egged on by a loud home crowd.

Medium pacer Khaka turned the game on its head

by striking thrice in the 18th over, sending back Amy Jones, Sophie Ecclestone and Katherine Sciver-Brunt. With 13 needed off the last over and England still had hope with skipper Heather Knight in the middle. Ismail got rid of her to seal a special result for South Africa.

Earlier, the hosts’ star batter Wolvaardt and Britz shared a 96-run stand to lay

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Smith to lead Aus in third Test in absence of Cummins

NEW DELHI, FEB 24 (IANS): Seasoned bat -

ter Steven Smith will lead Australia in the third Test of the ongoing BorderGavaskar Trophy against India in Indore as regular skipper Pat Cummins will miss the game to remain home in Sydney due to a family illness.

Cummins flew home following Australia’s defeat in the second-Test in Delhi last week, explain-

ing in a statement that his mother “is ill and in palliative care”.

With a nine-day break between Tests following the three-day finish in the

second game, it had been hoped the 29-year-old would return to India for the third Test beginning Wednesday. But Australia confirmed on Friday that Cummins would miss the Indore Test. They are keeping the door open for him to return for the fourth Test in Ahmedabad, but Smith could end up captaining in both the remaining matches.

the groundwork for a competitive total.

England’s lead spinner Sophie Ecclestone was the pick of the bowlers taking three wickets for 22 runs in four overs.

It was a second successive fifty from the 23-yearold Wolvaardt whose innings comprised five fours and a glorious off-drive than went all the way for a six.

Ecclestone was the one

to provide the breakthrough for England as Wolvaardt, trying to play on the on side, got a leading edge and was caught by Charlotte Dean.

Britz changed gears following her opening partner’s dismissal. Her back to straight sixes off leggie Sarah Glenn was the highlight of her innings. Ecclestone pulled things back in the death overs with wickets of Chloe Tyron and Nadine de Klerk in a three run over before Marizanne Kapp got a much needed 23 not out off 13 balls to take the total beyond 160.

Katherine SciverBrunt’s last over went for 18 runs and included a boundary off a waist high full toss.

Kapp ended the innings on a high with back to back fours.

South Africa were able to collect 66 runs off the last six overs.

Brief Scores: South Africa 164 for 4 in 20 overs (Tazmin Brits 68, Laura Wolvaardt 53; Sophie Ecclestone 3/22). England for 158 for 8 in 20 overs (Nat SciverBrunt 40, Danni Wyatt 34; Ayabonga Khaka 4/29)

CAPE TOWN, FEB 24

(PTI): The morale-shattering World Cup defeat is playing havoc with the mind of a crestfallen India captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who doesn’t know when will she overcome the nearyet-so-far feeling.

Harmanpreet’s bat got locked while trying to complete a second run during the semifinal against Australia on Thursday and that proved to be the turning point of the game as the untimely dismissal of the skipper led to their heartbreaking five-run defeat.

“It is very difficult to control myself. I don’t know. Right now, I am sitting in a hangover,” Harmanpreet said during a media interaction. She wore dark shades to hide her tears during post-match presentation ceremony.

It has been a case of near misses for this Indian team, having narrowly lost the ODI World Cup final to England in 2017 and the CWG final to Australia in Birmingham in 2022.

No one knows the pain more than the skipper. “I don’t understand how it is going on. But after this, when we go to the room, we will know how many more days it will take. But I think we played good cricket. That’s all I can say,” said the woman from Moga, who battled high fever and dehydration to score a scintillating 52 off 34 balls to set up a platform but the likes of Deepti Sharma let slip the opportunity.

Harmanpreet and Jemimah Rodrigues had set it up nicely by adding 69 from 41 balls but one can’t ignore the fact that Deepti, considered, India’s No. 1 all-rounder, once gain failed to display any significant

power-hitting skills, scoring 20 off 17 balls.

Former England men’s team captain Nasser Hussain termed her run-out as “schoolgirl error”.

“He (Nasser) said that? Okay. I don’t know. That is a way of thinking. I don’t know. But sometimes it happens. I have seen many times in cricket when batters are taking a single like that and sometimes bat is stuck there. But obviously, I will take it as we were unlucky today.”

Harmanpreet felt the only way she could have been dismissed was a freak run out and as luck would have it, that is exactly what happened.

“Definitely, it was a disappointment because the way I was batting, maybe that was the only chance to know how I can get out. If my bat didn’t get stuck and I would’ve easily finished that run “If I had stayed till the last moment, we could have definitely finished the match one over earlier as we had the momentum.”

Spain’s Sergio Ramos announces int’l retirement after 180 appearances

MADRID, FEB 24 (IANS): Paris Saint-Germain’s and former Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has announced that he is retiring from international football after a record 180 appearances for Spain. The 36-year-old, who will be 37 in March, published a letter on Thursday night, in which he confirmed he would no longer be available for the Spanish national side -- nearly two years after he made his last appearance on March 31, 2021, as a substitute against Kosovo.

P.V Sindhu parts ways with coach Park Tae-Sang, to train with Hafiz Hashim now

Hafiz, who lifted the All-England title in 2003, has signed a two-year contract with the Hyderabadbased academy and will be responsible for guiding the men’s and women’s singles players there. Sindhu is a product of the Sudhitra Badminton Academy, and will be undergoing training there for one or two days a week, reports said.

MUMBAI, FEB 24

(IANS): Two-time Olympic Games medallist P.V

Sindhu has separated from Korean coach Park Taesang, who helped her win medals at Tokyo Olympics and Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

Sindhu, who had

missed a major portion of the 2022 season due to an injury and recently returned to action in January, will now train with Malaysian former All-England champion Muhammad Hafiz Hashim at the Suchitra Badminton Academy in Hyderabad.

Hafiz Hashim is expected to help Sindhu in preparing for the All-England Badminton Championship from March 14-19.

Though Sindhu has not said anything on this issue, Park Tae-Sang put out a statement on social media to clarify his position. His statement proves that the

reason for their decision to part ways is the dip in form and indifferent results of the India player, ranked ninth in the BWF Rankings. He said Sindhu wanted a change and decided to find a new coach.

“She has made disappointing moves in all recent matches, and as a coach, I feel responsible.

“So, she wanted a change and she said she would find a new coach. I decided to respect and follow her decision,” Park Tae-Sang said in a post on his Twitter handle.

Park expressed his disappointment at not being able to be with Sindhu till the next Olympics in Paris in 2024.

Sirikit Cup: Avani grabs title, India finish second

MANILA (PHILIPPINES), FEB 24 (PTI):

Avani Prashanth on Friday became the first Indian golfer to win the Queen Sirikit Cup, a prestigious tournament for amateurs, and helped the Indian team finish second for its best-ever show in the competition’s 43-year-old-history.

With a total of 16-under, Avani finished a record 10-strokes ahead of Fiona

Xu of New Zealand (68-7372-69), who was six-under for the week.

Local Filipino star, Rianne Mikhaela Malixi (68-73-68-74) and Korea’s Hyunjo Yoo (70-71-71-71) were tied third at 5-under total.

The lanky 16-yearold from Bengaluru, who cracked the top-100 recently had a share of the lead from the very first day at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club.

Avani who had rounds of 68-66-70 on the first three days played a brilliant back nine with four birdies in last

eight holes, including the closing 18th.

“It’s been a long-awaited win and I’m excited for what the rest of the year holds. It’s a little frustrating that I won’t be going to Augusta this year, but I’ll hope to make it there in 2024.

I’m just happy to get this win and I hope I can carry this form into the WAAP,” Avani, ranked 93rd on the World amateur golf rankings, said.

Rated highly in the Asia-Pacific region, Avani

helped India give the formidable Korean a run for their money, before settling for the second place.

Even as Avani produced the finest performance of her young career, her teammate Vidhatri Urs (74-77-72-74) finished tied19th while Nishna Patel (80-78-74-75) ended in tied30th place.

In the team competition, Korean teen stars Kim Min-sol, Yoo Hyun-jo and Seo Kyo-rim once again showed their country’s dom-

ination at the tournament.

On a dramatic final day the Korean trio held firm to beat back a strong challenge from an Avani-inspired Indian team.

Korea had a 72-hole team aggregate of 12-under 564. That was five strokes clear of India. The two best scores of each team were counted for their day’s scores.

At the start of the day Korea quickly extended their overnight lead from two shots to four. But by the eighth hole, India had reduced the deficit to just one with Japan and Indonesia threatening to turn it into a four-horse race.

India’s hopes of a maiden Queen Sirikit Cup title faded when Nishna Patel found water with her approach and double-bogeyed the ninth and Vidhatri Urs took six at the par-four 10th. The Koreans were again four clear and went on to win by five. Still, it was a big boost for Indian amateur golfing scene.

Ramos commented that new Spain coach Luis de la Fuente had spoken to him to explain he was no longer in his plans. “The time has come, the time to say goodbye to the National Team, our dear and exciting Red Shirt (Spain’s colors). This morning I received a call from the current coach (de la Fuente) who told me that he won’t be counting on me, regardless of the level I can show or how I continue my sports career,” wrote Ramos in his letter.

Former Spain coach

Luis Enrique dropped Ramos for the European Championships in 2021 after the defender suffered injury, and didn’t pick him again during his spell in charge, which ended after Spain were knocked out of the 2022 World Cup finals, a Xinhua report said. There had been rumors that De la Fuente would again include Ramos, but the former Under-21 coach prefers to work with younger players rather than a footballer, who will be 38 when the next European Championships arrive.

South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt plays a shot against England during the Women’s T20 World Cup semi final cricket match in Cape Town, South Africa, Friday. (AP/PTI)

Don’t know how many more days will it take to get over this defeat: Harmanpreet

Harmanpreet Kaur

Sergio Ramos

Steven Smith

File photo of P.V Sindhu with coach Park Tae-Sang.

Avani Prashanth