7 Feb 2023

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Powerful quake in Turkey, Syria kills over 2.5k

AZMARIN (SYRIA), FEB

6 (AP): A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake rocked wide swaths of Turkey and neighbouring Syria on Monday, killing more than 2,500 people and injuring thousands more as it toppled thousands of buildings and trapped residents under mounds of rubble.

Authorities feared the death toll would keep climbing as rescuers searched through tangles of metal and concrete for survivors in a region beset by more than a decade of Syria’s civil war and a refugee crisis.

Residents jolted out of sleep by the pre-dawn quake rushed outside in the rain and snow to es-cape falling debris, while those who were trapped cried for help. Throughout the day, major af-tershocks rattled the region, including a jolt nearly as strong as the initial quake. After night fell, workers were still sawing away slabs and still pulling out

‘Frontier Naga Territory’, false BJP promise for vote: Congress

Correspondent

KOHIMA, FEB 6 (NPN):

All India Congress Committee (AICC) media and publicity department chairperson Pawan Khera has termed Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s announcement for creation of ‘Frontier Naga Territory’ for Eastern Nagaland as “another false promise” and alleged that it was just a ploy to get votes for BJP in the ensuing Assembly election.

bodies as desperate families waited for news on trapped loved ones.

Tens of thousands who were left homeless in Turkey and Syria faced a night in the cold.

In Turkey’s Gaziantep, a provincial capital about 33 kilometers (20 miles) from the epicenter, people took refuge in shopping malls, stadiums and community centers. Mosques around the region were opened to

provide shelter. The quake, which was centered on Turkey’s southeastern province of Kahramanmaras, sent res-idents of Damascus and Beirut rushing into the street and was felt as far away as Cairo. Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay said such a disaster could hit “once in a hundred years.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said official do not know how high the number of dead and injured will rise.

The quake piled more misery on a region that has seen tremendous suffering over the past dec-ade. On the Syrian side, the area affected is divided between government-held territory and the country’s last opposition-held enclave, which is surrounded by Russian-backed government forces. Turkey, meanwhile, is home to millions of refugees from the civil war. Thousands of buildings

were reported collapsed in a wide area extending from Syria’s cities of Aleppo and Hama to Turkey’s Diyarbakir, more than 330 kilometers (200 miles) to the north-east. In Turkey alone, more than 3,700 buildings were destroyed, authorities said. Hospitals were damaged, and one collapsed in the Turkish city of Iskenderun. Offers of help poured in from dozens of countries, as well as EU and NATO.

Parliament stalled as Oppn carries on with protests over Adani issue

NEW DELHI, FEB 6

(PTI): The government’s hopes for the start of a debate on the President’s address in Parliament in the new week were dashed on Monday as a determined Opposition stalled proceedings in both Houses again, raising the allegations of fraud against the Adani group and demanding a JPC probe.

The government was hopeful that the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address will start on Monday. The prime minister generally replies to the discussion in both Houses.

As soon as Lok Sabha

met after the weekend break, opposition members, mostly Congress MPs, entered the Well shouting slogans such as “Adani sarkar shameshame”.

They reiterated their demand for a joint parliamentary committee probe

into the allegations of fraud and stock manipulation by a US-based short-selling firm against the port-to-power conglomerate. The Adani Group has denied the allegations against it.

Speaker Om Birla urged them to go back to

their seats and participate in the debate. “This is not good. Sloganeering is against the dignity of the House. People have elected you to raise their issues in Parliament but you are not interested in participating in debate,” he said. He assured them that he would give the Opposition enough time to raise their issues in the House.

However, the Opposition ignored his pleas and continued their protests and slogan-shouting, forcing the Speaker to adjourn the House till 2 pm.

TMC members were also on their feet but protested from their seats. As

the House resumed after 2 pm, the opposition parties continued their protests. Rajya Sabha proceedings were similarly adjourned for the day without transacting any business as a united Opposition continued to raise in the House allegations of fraud against the Adani Group.

Meanwhile, outside Parliament, members of 17 opposition parties held a protest at the Gandhi statue after their demand for a discussion in Parliament was rejected in both Houses. Later in the day, some opposition leaders indicated that they could relent and allow the House to function on Tuesday.

Addressing media persons at Congress Bhavan here on Monday, Khera said the BJP-RSS was wellknown for giving false promises and “thrive on divisions, they thrive on faultlines and conflicts.” “Wherever they (RSS-BJP) go, they create conflicts, divisions and faultlines,” he said and called upon the people of Nagala nd to keep them away including their collaborators like Neiphiu Rio. He also accused the Neiphiu Rio government of being hand in glove with BJP in the latter’s malafide intent towards Nagaland and said that “such an endorsement at this stage is a brazen violation of Model Code of Conduct.”

On Naga political issue, he pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi failed to fulfil his promise to settle the Naga issue within three months. Instead, Modi further extended AFSPA for six more months following the Oting incident in December 2021, he said. Despite the people of Nagaland crying for ‘solution before election’, as promised by the Central leaders, Khera accused Modi and Shah of never being really bothered to hear Naga people but only “offer-

ing more lies to the people”. He asserted that as long as Rio remained chief minister, there would be no solution.

Khera accused NDPP, NPF and BJP of looting the State for the last 20 years and that it was time for people to wake up and see for themselves that money misappropriated should have been used to build roads, water supply, and other development projects. He also cited the example of the unfinished High Court complex as an example of “Rio model and Modi model.” Khera wondered with what face were they (Modi and Rio) going to the people seeking their votes.

Khera said ultimately, Rio landed up before Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the latter also filed cases against Rio’s close associates for money laundering. However, he said the matter had been put into cold storage by Modi and Shah despite knowing that Rio had serious allegations of corruption. He said BJP was with Rio in the election for the sake of power.

“They will spend about a thousand crores for buying votes and next five years loot thousands of crores,” he alleged. “The time has come for the people of Nagaland that they won’t allow NDPP- BJP government to take their trust for a ride,” he said. Khera mentioned that

NDPP working president Alemtemshi Jamir’s resignation was proof that the party did not care about people’s interest and it was functioning only for monetary gain.

Further, Khera asked whether Nagas were ready to sacrifice their faith at the behest of RSS and Hindutva forces, while claiming that RSS had been running Vanvasi Kalyan Ashrams in the State since the past 60 years. He reminded Nagas that the ultimate aim of Hindutva forces was to create a Hindu nation and alleged that they were trying to abrogate Article 371 (A) to bring tribes under the larger religion, as stated by organisation secretary of RSS in Northeast, Rajesh Das.

Khera claimed that Rio had brought the BJP to Nagaland and likewise the BJP has now brought the LJP. “If together they (BJP-LJP) get more seats than NDPP, then they would want to have a BJP chief minister,” said Congress. Therefore, Khera appealed to the people of Nagaland to vote wisely to ensure that the “dark rule of Rio and Modi comes to an end.”

Khera also said that the Congress has come out with a very constructive manifesto, after wide-spread consultation with different citizen groups, intellectuals and people whose hearts beat for Nagaland.

Polls: 117 file papers on Feb 6

DIMAPUR, FEB 6 (NPN):

Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Nagaland informed that 117 candidates including standby from different political parties filed nomination paper on Monday.

According to CEO office, 10 candidates filed nominations in Dimapur, four in Peren, 12 in Kohima, one in Pughoboto, 12 in Phek, 19 in Mokokchung, eight in Zunheboto, 12 in Wokha, 17 in Mon, seven in Longleng, six in Tuensang, one in Kiphire, five in Chümoukedima, one in Tseminyu and two in Shamator. February 7 is the last date for filing nominations, while scrutiny of papers will take place on February 8 and February 10, the last date for withdrawal.

Rio kicks off 2023 election campaign; files nomination

Correspondent

KOHIMA, FEB 6 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio exuded confidence that the NDPP-BJP alliance would once again be voted back to power in Nagaland.

On Monday, Rio also filed his nomination seeking re-election from 11 Northern Angami-II assembly constituency, at ADC office Chiephobozou.

Later, kicking off the election campaign at Northern Angami Mechü Ki’ at Chiephobozou, Rio emphasised that leaders should not contest elections for some personal gain but for public

welfare. He said electing a leader to be in the government to represent voice of the people was necessary. He remarked that the polls this time were going to be different, but expressed the

confidence to form the next government again. He urged party workers and supporters to spread awareness about the projects being implemented in villages by the ruling coalition.

On census and delimitation, Rio said the objective was to carry out the delimitation exercise in a just manner, unlike the last delimitation exercise.

He further maintained that resolving the Naga political issue always remained a top priority for NDPP and the government, and was optimistic of a settlement soon.

As there were more than 12 factions, Rio said solution to the Nagas issue could not be achieved due to the fragmentation and division with the groups. He, however, appealed to all groups to come together for an acceptable and honourable

Modi, Shah to campaign

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah were expected to campaign for the NDPPBJP alliance.

Speaking to media persons after filing his papers as NDPP nominee for 11-Northern Angami-II seat, Rio said they have received information that Modi and Shah were expected to visit Nagaland during the second or third week of February to campaign.

No scope for hate crimes on basis of religion, says SC

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (REUTERS): Supreme Court on Monday observed that there is a growing consensus around hate speech and stressed there is no scope for hate crimes on the basis of religion in a secular country such as India.

“There cannot be any compromise on hate speech at all,” the top court said and added that it is only if the state acknowledges the problem of hate speech that a solution can be found.

It also said that it is the primary duty of the state to protect its citizens from any such hate crimes. A bench of justices KM Joseph and BV

Nagarathna said, “When action is not taken against hate crimes then an atmosphere is fostered which is very dangerous and it has to be rooted out from our lives. There cannot be any compromise on hate speech at all.”

The top court was hearing a plea of a Muslim man who has alleged that he was assaulted and abused in the name of religion on July 4, 2021, by a “screwdriver gang” of criminals as he had boarded a car to go to Aligarh from Noida, and that the police has not bothered to register any complaint of hate crime. The bench told Ad -

ditional Solicitor General (ASG) KM Nataraj, appearing for the Uttar Pradesh government, that, “Nowadays there is a growing consensus around hate speech. There is no scope for hate crimes in the name of religion in a secular country like India. It has to be rooted out and it is the primary duty of the state to protect its citizens from any such crimes.”

“If a person comes to the police and says that I was wearing a cap and my beard was pulled and abused in the name of religion and still no complaint is registered, then it is a problem,” it said.

Justice Joseph said ac-

tion of every state officer augments respect for the law. Otherwise, everyone will take the law into their own hands, he said.

The bench, which sat till 6 pm hearing the matter, said, “Will you not acknowledge that there is a hate crime and you will sweep it under the carpet? We are not saying anything adverse. We are only expressing our anguish. That is all.”

Senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the petitioner Kazeem Ahmad Sherwani, said it was on January 13 that this court had asked the state government to produce the case

diary that police had registered the FIR after two years and that too with all bailable offences barring one.

Nataraj conceded that there were lapses on part of police officials and said that a special investigation team has been constituted headed by an ACP-rank officer and disciplinary action has been taken against erring police officials. The bench said, “You set an example and let such people face consequences for dereliction of duty. It is only when you take action against such incidents that we will come at par with developed nations.

DIMAPUR, FEB 6 (NPN):

Assembly polls: Parties release candidate list This is it!

On the penultimate day of filing nomination papers, more political parties issued tickets and released list of candidates for the ensuing Nagaland assembly elections scheduled to be held on February 27, 2023.

RJD: Rashtriya Janata

Dal (RJD)’s Nagaland State candidate selection committee released the list of candidates approved by RJD for the upcoming elections and have been allocated tickets accordingly.

Nagaland RJD state president Nikhezhe Sumi, Bihar agriculture minister Kumar Sarvjeet, RJD national general secretary Bhola Prasad Yadav, RJD Nagaland state women’s president Hetoli Rengma,

Patna Mahanagar president Mehtab Alam, Bihar RJD general secretary Balli Yadav, Patna RJD chief general secretary Naussad Akhtar were present at the meeting.

NPF: Naga People’s Front (NPF) also issued ticket to Vikato S. Aye for 4 Ghaspani-1 assembly constituency. With this, NPF has so far issued 22 tickets for the ensuing general election.

NEDF: Northeast Democratic Front (NEDF), which was launched on January 24, 2023, Monday declared the list of six intending candidates. Except for C John Konyak, an ex MLA, the rest are fresh faces who would be contesting the February 27 polls.

Opposition parties’ MPs stage a protest at the Gandhi statue in the Parliament complex, Monday. (PTI)

Rio kicks off 2023 election campaign at Chiephobozou.

(2nd from R) Pawan Khera with other Congress leaders. (NP)

“Seems that joining parties from other parts of India is a new trend. Whether it’s about money or politics?”

(L) People and emergency teams rescue a person on a stretcher from a collapsed building in Adana, Turkey and (R)Civil defense workers and residents search through rubble of collapsed buildings in Idlib province, Syria, Monday (AP/PTI)

Assembly polls: Candidates file nomination papers; launch campaign

DIMAPUR: Candidates of several political parties and Independent candidates on Monday filed their nomination papers for the ensuing Nagaland Legislative Assembly elections, which is slated to be held on February 27, 2023.

As per the Election Commission of India (ECI) notification, February 7 has been fixed as the last date for filing nominations, while scrutiny of nominations will take place on February 8 and the last date for withdrawal of candidature is February 10. The polls will be conducted from 7 am to 4 pm on February 27, results will be declared on March 2 and election shall be completed on March 4.

Kohima: Thirteen intending candidates from Kohima district filed their nomination papers before their respective returning officers.

Nagaland chief minister, Neiphiu Rio, from NDPP, filed his nomination before the returning officer & ADC Chiephobozou, Kohima 11 Northern Angami II (ST) assembly constituency. Khriehu Liezietsu from NPF filed his nomination from 10-Northern Angami 1 A/C.

Kevipodi Sophie from 14-Southern Angami-1 AC filed his nomination paper as an Independent candidate and Medo Yhokha filed nomination as NDPP candidate while from 15 Southern Angami-II Assembly Constituency, Vipopal Kintso filed his nomination as JDU candidate and Er. Kropol Vitsu, who was accompanied by Union Minister for Ministry of Minority Affairs, John Barala, filed his nomination as BJP candidate.

Four candidates from 9 Kohima Town A/C filed their nomination papers.

Er. Meshenlo Kath and his substitute Dr. Ketoulelhou Vizo filed their nomination as INC candidate while Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso filed his nomination as NPP candidate and Dr. Neikiesalie Nicky Kire filed his nomination paper as NDPP candidate.

From 10 Northern Angami-1 A/C, Khriehu Liezietsu filed his nomination as NPF candidate.

From Western Angami 8 A/C, sitting MLA, Keneizhakho Nakhro filed his nomination as an independent candidate and Salhoutuonuo Kruse as NDPP candidate.

Dimapur: Eight candidates and one NDPP standby candidate under Dimapur I, II and III assembly constituencies filed their nomination papers before the returning officers on at DC office Dimapur. The candidates who filed the nomination papers included H.Tovihoto Ayemi (BJP) from Dimapur I A/C; Moatoshi Longkumer (NDPP) Dimapur II A/C; Supu Jamir (Independent) 2 Dimapur II A/C; S Amento Chishi (INC) 2 Dimapur II A/C; Y Vikheho Awomi LJP ( RV) 2 Dimapur II A/C; Azheto Zhimomi LJP (RV) 3 Dimapur III A/C; K. Lun Tungnung (Independent) 3 Dimapur III A/C; Hekani Jakhalu (NDPP) 3 Dimapur III A/C and Kerenjungla Longkumer as NDPP standby candidate for 2 Dimapur II A/C.

Chumoukedima: Z Kasheto Yeptho, RPI (A) candidate, from 5 Ghaspani II assembly constituency, filed his nomination paper.

Imsumongba Pongen JDU candidate from 4 Ghaspani-l constituency and Akavi N. Zhimomi

INC candidate also from 4-Ghaspani-I constituency filed their nomination paper.

Kitoho S Rotokha, LJP candidate from 5 Ghaspani II A/C filed his nomination paper.

Mokokchung: Temjen

Imna Along, BJP candidate from 30 Alongtaki A/C, filed his nomination paper at the ADC office Mangkolemba accompanied by Union minister of state Rajeev Chandrasekhar. Er J Lanu Longchar JD(U) candidate from 30 Alongtaki assembly constituency also filed nomination papers.

Tongpang Ozukum NDPP candidate from 24 Angetyongpang A/C and Imnatiba NDPP candidate from 22 Arkakong Assembly constituency filed their nomination paper.

Amenba Yaden (NCP) and A. Panjung Jamir (BJP) from 21 Tuli A/C; T. N. Mannen (NDPP) from 23 Impur A/C; Sharingain Longkumer (NDPP) from 26 Aonglenden A/C; Mestubo Jamir (NDPP) from 27 Mokokchung Town A/C also filed their nominations.

Peren: NDPP candidate T.R. Zeliang from 7 Peren A/C, Tarie Zeliang (NDPP) and Zandi Domta (NPP) from 6 Tenning A/C filed their nominations on Monday.

Mon: M. Hoang Jess

(NPP) and W. Chingang Konyak from 42 Wakching A/C; Noke Wangnao (NDPP), A . Epha (NPP) and Geihwang Konyak from 43 Tapi A/C; K. Konngam Konyak (BJP) from 22 Phomching A/C; Er. Cheong Konyak (BJP) and Thongwang Konyak JD (U) from 46 Mon Town A/C; Wangka Konyak (RPI) from 47 Aboi A/C; D. Yongnyak Konyak 48 Moka A/C; Naiba Konyak (LJP-RV) and N. Bongkhao Konyak (NDPP) from 55 Tobu A/C also filed their nomination papers.

Wokha: Deputy chief minister Y Patton, BJP candidate from 37 Tuyi A/C and Renponthung Ezung BJP candidate from 38 A/C under Wokha districts filed nomination Monday.

Patton and Ezung were accompanied by minister tribal affairs Arjun Munda and the official spokespersons for BJP Nalin Kholi.

Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, NCP candidate from 38 Wokha A/C, Yibemo Kikon and RJD candidate from 37 Tyui A/C also filed their nomination papers on Monday.

Zunheboto: KT Sukhalu, NDPP candidate from 35 Zunheboto A/C, G. Kaito Aye (NDPP) and Zheito Chophy (LJP- RV) from 36 Satakha A/C, G. Ikuto Zhi-

De ATH A NNI vers A rY

momi (NDPP)34 Aghunato A/C and S. Toiho Yeptho 33 Suruhuto A/C filed their nomination papers on Monday. BJP candidate Kazheto from 31 Akuluto A/C, Er. Kahuli Sema (BJP) and Er. Picto (NCP) from 32 Atoizu A/C also filed their nominations.

Phek: Kudecho Khamo, NDPP candidate from 18 Chozuba A/C filed his paper on Monday.

Longleng: S. Pangnyu Phom, BJP candidate from 50 Longleng A/C , A. Pongshi Phom and Y. B. Angam Phom (stand by) NCP candidate filed their nomination. For 49 Tamlu A/C, B.S. Nganlang Phom, NDPP candidate, H. Nyemli Phom RPI (A) candidate and B. Bangtick Phom Independent candidate filed their nomination.

Tuensang: For 52 Longkhim Chare A/C, Muthingnyuba Sangtam NCP candidate and BJP candidate, Sethrongkyu filed their nomination papers.

Kiphire: INC candidate, Khaseo Anar from 59 Seyochung-Sitimi A/C filed nomination.

Shamator: NDPP candidate S. Keoshu Yimchun-

ger and R. Tohanba (LJPRV) filed their nomination from 58 Shamator- Chessore A/C.

Pughoboto: LJP (RV) candidate, Dr. Sukhato A Sema from 13 Pughoboto A/C filed nomination paper.

Campaignlaunched

Candidates of several po litical parties including Independent launched their election campaigns on Monday.

Imnatiba: NDPP candidate from 22 Arkakong A/C, Imnatiba launched the election campaign on February 4. In his speech, he thanked chief minister Neiphiu Rio, NDPP president Chingwang Konyak, NDPP secretary general Abu Metha and the supporters from his constituency for providing the opportunity and trust on him. He encouraged the people to come together so that he may receive the opportunity to be part of the ruling government to serve the constituency.

Y. Vikheho Awomi: Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) candidate from 2 Dimapur II A/C, Y. Vikheho Awomi

A CKNOWL e DG e M e NT

"For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord.

officially declared his candidature on Monday. Addressing his supporters at his residence at Thahekhu village, Vikheho appealed to the voters to reject range or clan politics but vote for those leaders who were fighting for development and governance. He said Nagaland being a “dependent state” with no resources on its own, people should choose a visionary leader who has the persistence to continue progressing toward achieving a goal or completing the task assigned despite the challenges. A dedicatory prayer for the candidate was offered by senior pastor, Thahekhu Village Baptist Church senior pastor, Rev. Dr. Yehevi Jimo. Later, accompanied by large supporters, Vikheho also filed his nomination.

Keneizhakho Nakhro: Kicking off election campaign at Para Medical Kohi ma, sitting MLA from 8 Western Angami Keneizhakho Nakhro described NDPP of not giving him the ticket was for a good reason. He admitted that many of his supporters were disappointed for denying NDPP ticket however the unflinching support was encouraging and enlightened his heart.He said being an independent candidate and supporter of an independent candidate every individual has become a family member and urged the supporters to take responsibility and do their job respectively

by reaching out to every citizen of the constituency.

Kevipodi Sophie: Independent candidate from 14 Southern Angami-I assembly constituency, Kevipodi Sophie, kicked off his official campaign after filing the nomination for his candidature at SDO office, Jakhama, some 44 Kms away from the state capital here on Monday.

Addressing a public reception at Jakhama local ground, Sophie said one of the core issues prompting him to join the poll race was the Kezoltsa forest issue which had not garnered enough attention eventhough it was in need of a legislature level intervention. Another issue, he said, was the road development along the region which had been neglected even after centre had initially proposed for a four lane road.

Sophie expressed his desire to also look after widows and aged citizens who needed special attention.

Kudecho Khamo: NDPP candidate for 18 Chozuba A/C Kudecho Khamo launched the election campaign at Chetheba Town in Phek district.

Adrressing a mammoth gathering he acknowledged the leadership of the NDPP led by party president Chingwang Konyak, chief minister Neiphiu Rio and others for allotting the party ticket and credited the prayer and unflinching support of the party workers and supporters.

A year has gone by since you left us for Heavenly Abode but we still find it very hard to accept the reality. Our lives goes on but without you nothing is the same. Your precious Teaching, words of Wisdom and the sweet Memories you left behind will always be cherished and be in our thoughts forever.

We miss you a lot.

Loving Wife, Children, In-Laws & Grand-Children

We,

It

Loving

L. TINGOHM KONYAK (07.02.2022)

the family members of Lt r epalepzuk Jamir convey our heartfelt gratitude to all our relatives, friends, neighbors, church members, near and dear ones who stood by us spiritually, physically, emotionally, and financially at the demise of our beloved father.

is our prayer that our generous God bless you all.

wife, children and family members

So, then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's" Romans 14: 8

Y. Patton at DC office Wokha. Neiphiu Rio at ADC office Chiephobozou.

Temjen Imna Along at Mangkolemba.

Moatoshi Longkumer Azheto Zhimomi

Paiwang Konyak

Tongpang Ozukum

Y. Vikheho Awomi and others.

T. R Zeliang at Peren.

Imnatiba

Hekani Jakhalu and others.

Renponthung Ezung

Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe

H.Tovihoto Ayemi

Imkong L Imchen

Q.: Will the regional council for eastern Nagaland bring expected benefits to the people?

DoP launches ‘Electrical Safety Week’

neer (T&G), Er.Penrithung Yanthan said most of the accidents occur due to ignorance, carelessness and mindlessness.

He advised all the officers and staff to read, learn and adopt the Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) which has been approved and circulated to all divisions. He also emphasized on practicing Personal Protective Grounding (PPG) before the start of any work on electrical line.

NEXT POLL

Q: Are other parties in Nagaland besides Congress, raising pertinent issues in this election?

General Observers review election preparedness in Kohima, Wokha

He further requested all to be responsible, learn the Standard Operating Procedure and create awareness to the other staffs also.

Er.Wapangmeren Jamir Addl Chief Engineer (D&R), Er.Kasho Chishi Addl Chief Engineer (T&G) and representative from All Nagaland Electrical Field Worker Association also spoke on the occasion.

DIMAPUR: Department of Power (DoP) has launched a week-long “Electrical Safety Week” on February 6 under the theme “Safety By Choice Not By Chance” at Lineman training Centre, Electrical colony Nagarjan, Dimapur.

At the launching programme, Engineer-inChief, Department of Power, Er.Moa Aier stressed on the importance of training

of field staff for all the category before their next promotion.

He shared the department vision of setting up a professional training institute where all categories of staffs at different level such as field officers, Bill Assistant, Meter Reader, Accounts, Field staff, etc will be trained and the institute will be upgraded to Nagaland Power Training Institute.

He therefore advised the field staff to confirm twice about the line shutdown and clearance while on the job.

Aier further said that the department with a meager fund was trying its best to procure few basic safety gears for the field staff and the gear will be issued only after the staff were trained.

Speaking on the importance of observing the safety week, Chief Engi-

The programme was chaired by Er.Rukongutuo Suohu SE(E) Dimapur Circle, Power point presentation on Standard Operating Procedure on shutdown and recharge of line was given by Er.Namheu Khate SDO(E) LMTC.

Earlier, the launching programme began with an invocation by Aghovi Chishi and vote of thanks by Er.Akavi Chophy EE MIS.

DIMAPUR: General Observers (GOs) for assembly constituencies under Kohima and Wokha reviewed the preparedness status of the electioneering process in the districts for the smooth conduct of the election GO for 8 Western Angami A/C, 14 Southern Angami -I A/C and 15 Southern Angami - II A/C, Janak Prasad Pathak arrived Kohima district on February 6. On his arrival, DC & DEO Kohima, Shanavas C IAS briefed the General Observer on the preparedness status of the election process for the smooth conduct of

the forthcoming election to the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly Election 2023.

Later, the General Observer visited the o ffice of the Returning Officer & SDO Jakhama where he had a discussion with RO and ERO Jakhama for the smooth conduct of the forthcoming election. WOKHA: GO for 37th Tiyi A/C and 38th Wokha A/C Abhishek Krishna arrived Wokha district headquarters on February 5. On his arrival, Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer Wokha (DC & DEO) Ajit Kumar

Ranjan and Superintendent of Police, Aotula T Imchen briefed the General Observer about the preparedness status undertaken for the electioneering process in the district for the smooth conduct of the election.

According to DPRO & IA Wokha, the general observer for 37th Tiyi A/C and 38th Wokha, Abhishek Krishna can be contacted at this contact number 9863215155.

Earlier, general observer for 39th Sanis A/C and 40 Bhandari A/C Jyoti Kumar Lakra also reached Wokha to oversee the conduct assembly election 2023.

Information, meetings and trainings for assembly election 2023

DIMAPUR: As Nagaland gears up for the ensuing general election to the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), various trainings, meetings have been conducted and information disseminated for smooth conduct of the election.

First round of Randomization of EVMs/VVPATs for the upcoming general election to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, 2023 was conducted on February 4, at NIC conference Hall Mon.

Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer (DC &DEO) Ajit Kumar Verma briefed the roles and responsibilities of the EVMs/VVPATs management team and sought for full cooperation. He said that each and every individual’s contribution will be equally important for the smooth conduct of the election. He also reminded them that it was a time-bound duty only.

After the Randomization of EVMs/VVPATs in the presence of DC& DEO Ajit Kumar Verma and the representatives of the various political parties from Mon district, the required EVMs/VVPATs were allocated to respective ACs through EMS.

Meanwhile, DC, Mon informed all the Grade-IV

Staff under Mon district who were deputed to the election duty that there will be a briefing cum training session for all such GradeIV staff to explain their roles and responsibilities

during the election duty on February 10 at 11 a.m. at council hall, Mon.

All concerned have been directed to attend the scheduled briefing cum training session without

fail. Any government employee deputed for election duty failing to attend the scheduled training shall be prosecuted under the relevant provisions of the Election Laws, DC warned.

Farmers trained on seed treatment, sowing

The second phase of training for all polling personnel in view of the forthcoming general election, 2023 has been fixed as scheduled. Presiding Officers & 1st Polling GHSS on February 9 (male); Presiding Officers & 1st Polling at Town Hall Zunheboto February 9 (female), 10 a.m. 2nd Polling & 3rd Polling (male) at GHSS on February 10 at 10 a.m. and 2nd Polling & 3rd Polling (female) at Town Hall Zunheboto on February 10 at 10 a.m. All poll personnel have been asked to attend the training positively.

ECI GUIDELINES ON SETTING UP TEMPORARY OFFICES

In pursuance of the conduct of the general election to the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly Election, 2023, and under the Election Commission of India guidelines, the following instructions on setting up temporary offices by political parties and candidates have been issued.

A DIPR report stated that as per the guidelines, no such office will be opened

by way of any encroachment either of public or private property or in any religious place or campus of such religious place or contiguous to any educational institution/hospital and also no such office will be opened within 200 meters of an existing polling station. The order also stated that only one party flag and banner with party symbols/ photographs will be allowed

Raj Bhavan bids farewell

to display at such an office and the size of the banner used should not exceed 4 feet x 8 feet, subject to the further condition.

For setting up such office and used of banner, the permission have to be taken from the Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer or Returning Officer, who will consult the concerned SP/local police while granting the permit.

Further the order stated that Expenditure Observers shall be informed of all such offices so that they can closely monitor them to ensure that expenditure on such offices was properly booked in the account of the candidate and local police shall be informed of all such offices to ensure that no law and order situation was created in such office/ camp.

DIMAPUR: Agriculture Technology Management (ATMA) Kiphire, Pungro block conducted demonstrations programme on February 3 and 4, at Pungro town and Iponger village. A press release from

ATMA Kiphire, Pungro block, Block Technology Manager (BTM) AO Moanaro stated that the topic on “cultivation practices of tomato and chilly” and “care and management of pigs” were conducted. Resource persons for

the programme were BTT Convenor Yamuki and Veterinary department, Pungro block, VFA M Yochung.

Yamuki trained and demonstrated the farmers on seed treatment, sowing time, nursery bed manage-

ment, soil treatment, seed rate and mulching. He also highlighted on the preparation of the main field, transplanting, intercultural operations and harvesting of tomatoes and chilies. Hands on demonstration on nursery bed preparation followed by line sowing of seeds were carried out where all the farmers actively participated. Meanwhile, resource person M. Yochung imparted the knowledge about care and management of pigs starting from the construction of pig house, proper selection of stock, breeding management, care during pregnancy and farrowing, feeding management including creep feeding for piglets, diseases and health care and other managemental practices. Altogether, 34 farmers attended the demonstrations programme. The participants were distributed with various vegetables seeds, bio-pesticides, mineral mixtures, de-worming tablets and ointments for pigs.

DIMAPUR: Raj Bhavan, Kohima organized a farewell programme at Ura Bhavan, Raj Bhavan on February 6 in honour of the outgoing Commissioner and Secretary to Governor, Mhabemo Yanthan, who has been transferred as the Commissioner, Nagaland.

Chairing the programme, Joint Secretary to Governor, Mhomo Tungoe thanked the Commissioner & Secretary for the service rendered and for the efforts he had put in to improve the functioning of the office. Delivering a brief service record of the Commissioner

& Secretary, Section officer

Jochule mentioned that T. Mhabemo Yanthan joined Raj Bhavan as Commissioner & Secretary to Governor on September 2019, and served in that capacity till February 2023. Incoming Commissioner & Secretary to Governor, Wezope Kenye congratulated the Yanthan on his new assignments. Delivering farewell speech, T. Mhabemo Yanthan thanked the Almighty and the entire staff of Raj Bhavan for the memorable tenure and said that this could happen only with the constant support and cooperation.

NSCN (Khango) cautions

DIMAPUR: NSCN/GPRN (Khango) has informed the public and business communities, establishment in an around Dimapur, Niuland and Chümoukedima jurisdiction, that certain imposters with vested personal interest were resorting to taxation transaction claiming to be representative of NSCN (Khango). MIP warned those individuals duping the public and business communities under the banner of NSCN/GPRN (Khango) to refrain from executing or collecting taxation, failing which it said that the group should not be held accountable for any untoward catastrophe in the near future. MIP also appealed to all individual(s), association(s) and business unions to not entertain such “imposters”. Further queries can be contacted at—8798204427.

Police Observer inspects security arrangements

DIMAPUR: Election Commission of India has deputed Satish Kumar Gajbhiye as the Police Observer for Dimapur and Chumoukedima districts with regard to the forthcoming Nagaland Legislative Assembly elections.

A report by DPRO Dimapur stated that any citizen who desires to file his nomination papers for contesting at the ensuing NLA elections, and is not in a position to do so, due to threat/ intimidation then he / she may con -

tact the Police Observer on his mobile number: 9366897123.

Satish Kumar who will be putting up at the Police Officers Mess, Chümoukedima will be available to hear the public grievances with regard to any security issues or intimidation or unfair election practices from 8:30 am to 9:30 pm. Public can also contact him through phone call, watsapp or make their complaints through Cvigil App.

ZUNHEBOTO

Launching programme of ‘Electrical Safety Week’ in Dimapur on Monday.

General Observer, Janak Prasad Pathak with DC & DEO Kohima, Shanavas C on his arrival in Kohima. (DPRO, Kohima)

DC & DEO Mon, Ajit Kumar Verma and the representatives of the various political Parties at the first round of Randomization of EVMs/VVPATs on February 4.

Demonstration on seed sowing and nursery bed management at the programme organised by ATMA Kiphire, Pungro block.

Training for webcasting and offline videography for the assembly election underway at Government Higher Secondary School, Zunheboto on February 6. (DIPR)

Police Observer, Satish Kumar Gajbhiye accompanied by Sachin Jaiswal inspecting the security arrangements.

Tipra trying to bring back Communist rule: Shah

SANTIRBAZAR/ KHOWAI (TRIPURA),

FEB 6 (PTI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday alleged that Tipra Motha has a “secret understanding” with the Congress and the CPI(M), and that the newly formed regional party is “trying to bring back Communist rule in the state by misleading indigenous people”.

Banking on its stupendous performance in the 2021 Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) polls, Tipra Motha, headed by former royal scion Pradyot Manikya Debbarma, has decided to go solo in the February 16 assembly elections but the party has not ruled out the possibility of a post-poll alliance with any party that supports its Greater Tipraland statehood demand.

Tipra Motha has decided to contest 42 of the 60 constituencies in Tripura.

There are around 20 tribaldominated seats, and these hold the key to power in the northeastern state.

“Voting for Tipra Motha means supporting the

CPI(M ), and supporting Congress means voting for Communists...giving mandate to the Communists means bringing back the days of unrest.

“You have seen the performance of the Communists and the Congress... They have ruled the state for 50 years, yet there was no development. They never respected tribals, never thought about ‘janjati’ (tribal) welfare. Tipra Motha is trying to bring back Communist rule in Tripura by misleading indigenous

people,” Shah said while addressing a rally in Santirbazar area in South Tripura.

Claiming that Tipra Motha has a “secret understanding” with the CPI(M) and the Congress, Shah urged the people to repose faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the development of indigenous people in the next five years.

Shah said that two BJP chief ministers in the last five years have ensured security of Tripura, which was earlier witnessing crossborder infiltration and mili-

Manipur Congress holds demonstrations on Adani row

against the Adani group in the Hindenburg Research report,” said former chief minister O Ibobi Singh.

He alleged that the Modi government was selling all the government properties and giving benefits to a few selected industrialists.

Correspondent

IMPHAL, FEB 6: “Save

LIC-SBI” shouted the Congress workers who staged a demonstration outside the office of the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India in Imphal’s Khoyathong on Monday.

The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) staged a demonstration against the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre for allegedly indulging in “crony capitalism” and compromising administration to benefit Adani. The opposition staged the demonstration as a part of AICC’s nationwide protest, seeking an impartial investigation into the allegations made against the Adani group in

the Hindenburg Research report. MPCC president K Meghachandra, CLP leader and former chief minister O Ibobi Singh, CWC member Gaikhangam and MLAs of the party were among others who took part in the demonstration. They demonstrated in front of the LIC office after a slogan shouting rally from Imphal Congress Bhawan to the office in the afternoon on Monday.

Placards and banners read as “Modi government, down-down”, “Lets save SBI-LIC”, “Down-down BJP” were also displayed during the demonstration.

“We are holding the demonstration showing solidarity to opposition parties (including AICC) seeking an impartial investigation into the allegations made

Taking a dig at the BJP government at the Centre for forcibly investing LIC and SBI money into the Adani group, he asked “How public money has been invested in the group and it must be probed.” He added that the issue of investment of public money through the LIC and SBI into the Adani group was a matter of serious concern and the Modi government has been evading questions in the Parliament. Manipur Congress supported the demand for a probe to be conducted either under the watch of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) or by a joint parliamentary committee (JPC), he added. Such similar demonstrations were also held at different districts of the state, including Thoubal, Bishnupur, Kakching, Imphal East and others under the supervision of the respective Pradesh Congress Committees.

tancy.

“The Congress has given you ‘andhakaar’ (darkness), but we (BJP) have given you ‘adhikaar’ (rights). The Left Front and the Congress used to do corruption and now both are together, but nobody can level allegation of a single scam against the BJP,” he said.

According to the seat adjustment, the CPI(M) will contest 43 seats, and its Left Front partners Forward Block, RSP and the CPI one each. The Congress will contest 13 seats.

Shah also claimed that the Narendra Modi government has ensured development of the Northeast, ending years of neglect.

“The Northeast, especially Tripura, was known for insurgency, blockades, drug-trafficking, corruption and infiltration... Modiji made serious efforts to bring back peace in Tripura by signing a peace agreement with NLFT. As many as 40,000 Brus have been resettled,” he said.

Addressing another rally in Khowai later in the day, the Union Home

Stop spreading misinformation: Conrad to BJP

Correspondent

TURA , FEB 6: Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) Chief, Conrad Sangma on Monday asked its ally BJP not to spread misinformation on the state government’s flagship programmes, FOCUS and FOCUS+.

“The BJP had no option or issue to counter the NPP and was only indulging in cheap tactics,” Sangma said at an election meeting at Machangpaniunder Dalu Constituency to drum up support for party candidate Brening A. Sangma. The NPP leader called upon the BJP not to propagate misinformation campaign in Garo hills by telling the people that FOCUS and FOCUS + scheme is from the Centre.

The Chief Minister informed that PM Kisan was a different programme and could not be implemented in the State because most farmers do not own land in the State. Claiming that the wave of NPP across the State is very strong, Sangma asked the electorates of the State not to waste their vote on any other political parties and vote for NPP.

Rejected ticket aspirants accuse BJP of ‘selling tickets’

Correspondent

SHILLONG, FEB 6: Two of the aspirants for a BJP ticket for the upcoming Meghalaya Assembly polls have accused the party of “selling party tickets” to candidates while ignoring those who have worked at the grassroots.

The BJP, which is hoping to improve its tally in the 60-member Meghalaya Assembly, for the first time is fielding its candidate in all the constituencies across the state.

Former Meghalaya legislator, Ismail Marak,

Correspondent

who was denied a BJP ticket from North Tura assembly constituency, claimed that BJP state president Ernest Mawrie had sought for a loan of Rs 10 lakh after he applied for a party ticket.

The BJP allotted the party ticket to Adamkid Sangma, who had associated with the Congress and Trinamool Congress.

“I have been with the BJP for more than two years and applied for the North Tura ticket. After I applied, the BJP president asked me to give him Rs 10 lakh. When I asked why, he (BJP president) said it was

SHILLONG, FEB 6: Senior BJP leader, Alexander LalooHek on Monday promised a CBI probe into all the alleged scams occurred during the National People’s Party (NPP) regime and the guilty punished if his party comes to power in the state.

“I am the son of the soil and all those who have been involved in corruption would be probed by the CBI within six months after the BJP comes to power,” Hek, a former minister and BJP candidate from the Pynthormukhrah assembly seat, said after filing his nomination papers. Hek, who

a kind of loan,” Marak said on Monday.

“I told him that I cannot afford to loan him Rs. 10 lakh since I am preparing for the elections. To my utter surprise, when the party announced the list of candidates, I found out that my name did not figure in it and probably because I did not concede to the loan demanded by him,” the former legislators said.

Marak who joined the opposition Trinamool Congress on Sunday said that he will put all efforts to ensure that the Mamata Banerjeeled party will lead the new

Minister said that the BJP forced over 9,000 terrorists to surrender across the Northeast.

“The northeastern region is on the path of development; airports, roads are being built, railways tracks are being laid under the BJP rule,” he said.

“We have brought peace and prosperity to Tripura in the last five years. But these five years are not enough... The journey has to continue. If Tripura can develop, it can do so only under the BJP. Through our policies, we have ensured social and economic upliftment of every section of the society,” he said.

Shah, who arrived in Tripura on Monday, will take part in a road show in Banamalipur constituency in Agartala.

The election to the 60-member assembly will be held on February 16 and counting will take place on March 2. The BJP has fielded candidates in 55 seats, while its ally Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT) has put up candidates in five constituencies.

Mamata accuses BJP of ‘Inflicting torture’ on common people in Tripura

Sen and Sushmita Dev were not spared,” she told reporters at the airport.

The TMC boss asserted that Tripura was her “second home”.

“I had extensively worked with Tripura leaders like Santosh Mohan Dev and Manoranjan Bhakta when the Congress stormed back to power in the state (in 1988). I know the northeastern state across its length and breadth -- from Sonamura to Kailashahar,” she maintained.

AGARTALA, FEB 6 (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, who arrived here on a two-day visit to poll-bound Tripura, said on Monday that her party would continue to stand by the people of the state, despite the attacks mounted on its leaders. The chief minister, who landed here around 5 pm, was accompanied by her nephew and party’s national general secretary

Abhishek Banerjee

TMC state president

Pijush Kanti Biswas, party MP Sushmita Dev and senior leader Rajib Banerjee welcomed the party supremo at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport. “I have come here to say that the TMC stood by you (common people) when there was no one else amid the torture inflicted by the BJP. Our people were also attacked and vehicles vandalised. Even senior leaders such as Kakali Ghosh Dastidar, Dola

“The most pleasant thing about this place is that I can speak in my native language. People of Tripura have a close connection with Bengal- be it food habits, clothing choices or lifestyles,” the Bengal chief minister said, adding that she will be heading for Tripureswari temple from the airport to offer prayers.

Sources in the party said the TMC supremo will join a roadshow, covering all the important streets of the city, on Tuesday and address a rally next to Rabindra Bhavan here.

Child marriage arrests: ‘erroneous’ data in ID cards

MORIGAON (ASSAM),

FEB 6 (PTI): As more and more young men find themselves behind bars with the Assam government continuing its crackdown on child marriage, their wives are running from pillar to post to find documents to prove they were not underage at the time of wedlock.

Many affected families also claimed that identity documents with “erroneous” birth dates of women were cited by police for registering cases.

A total of 2,241 arrests have been made so far in the state, based on 4,074 FIRs, as part of the crackdown launched four days ago.

An elderly resident of Bhuragaon in Morigaon district claimed that most of the child marriage cases were registered on the basis of data collected from local health workers, who keep track of pregnant women, lactating mothers and families with small children to ensure coverage of government schemes.

“These health workers use Aadhaar card information, as this is the latest document in possession of the villagers. However, errors related to birth dates have been spotted in the

government in Meghalaya.

Another aspirant for BJP ticket, Michael Kharsyntiew who had applied for the party ticket from North Shillong assembly seat also raked up the cash-for-ticket scam which had come to light in 2019.

“I was denied the ticket as I have raised the matter of cash for party ticket issue internally and even before Nalin Kohli when he was in-charge Meghalaya,” Kharsyntiew who unsuccessfully contested the 2018 assembly elections from Umsning assembly constituency said.

was stripped of his cabinet berth by the MDA government has been upset and has been leveling corruption charges against the government indicating that the central leadership of the party knows about the corruption charges about the outgoing Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government. “If the BJP comes to power there would be a CBI probe within the six months. Nobody would be spared,” Hek reiterated. The BJP is a minor partner in the outgoing MDA government with one of the legislators being cabinet ministers. Apart from Hek, SanborShullai is the other BJP legislator who was inducted in the cabinet after Hek was

ousted. Hek moreover said that he is the Chief Minister candidate if the BJP comes to power in the state.

“There will be a double engine government if the BJP is elected to power in Meghalaya as the Centre is already led by the BJP and in that scenario. I am the chief minister. The party central leadership has appointed me to important posts within the party and so naturally he is the fit for the top post,” Hek said. However, when Shullai came to file his nominations countered Hek’s aspirations and said that nothing has been decided and it’s up to the central leadership to decide on the CM candidate.

Aadhaar cards, but no one took serious note,” he told PTI.

Another villager, Jamaluddin, whose son Rajibul Hussain is in police custody, alleged that he was arrested based on the date of birth of his daughterin-law as mentioned in the Aadhaar card.

“She had provided her Aadhaar details to our local ASHA ‘baidew’ (elder sister) during pregnancy. We never knew that the mistake in the year of birth by the authorities will cost us so dearly,” Jamaluddin said. His daughter-in-law has to now visit her paternal house in Morigaon town to fetch the old iden-

c an D i D ate D eclaration

I, JOEL NAGA resident of Kandinu, Tseminyu District would like to declare that I am an Intending Candidate of The Rising People’s Party (RPP) from the 12 Tseminyu A/C for the 14th NLA General Election and that I have a criminal antecedent Case No. : G. r . 1108/16 U n D er S ection 441 (treSPaSSinG) which is pending against me in the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Dimapur Nagaland.

DP-596/23(B)

AFFIDAVIT (DECLARATION FOR CORRECTION OF NAME)

Regd. No. 142/2022

Date: 3rd Aug 2022

I, Smti Rongsensangla Ao, daughter of Lt. Imkong of Waromung Village, Mokokchung Nagaland, presently residing Merhulietsa Colony, Kohima Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirmed and declare as follows:

1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India hailing from Ao Naga Tribe.

2. That my official name is “Smti Rongsensangla Ao” however in my GPF Account no.4933, my name was inadvertently recorded as “Smti Rongsenla” which is my short name of “Smti. Rongsensangla Ao”.

3. That this affidavit of declaration is made to declare that the above mentioned names Smti.Rongsensangla Ao and Smti. Rongsenla represent one and same person i.e. me.

4. That this affidavit of declaration shall be used as a piece of evidence for correction/rectification of my name that Smti. Rongsensangla Ao and Smti. Rongsenla represent one and same person i.e me for future references and correspondence.

5. That the above statements made in this affidavit are true to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing material has been concealed thereon. And I signed this affidavit on this day the 3rd of August 2022 at Kohima, Nagaland.

tity documents “with the correct date of birth”.

The names of those affected have been changed to protect their identities.

The father of Rashidul Hussain, another youth of the same village behind bars in the case, also maintained that “error” in a government identity card led to his son’s arrest.

The date of birth as per identity documents submitted to local health workers like ASHA or Anganwadi volunteers also led to Ronita Biswas and

Regd. No. 472/2023

Simpi Roy Mondal landing up at a government shelter home in Morigaon, after their husbands’ arrest.

“Most of the women brought to the government shelters have been identified as per records furnished by the local health workers, and those pregnant or with young children have been given priority to ensure they are taken care of,” a staff member of such a shelter home said.

“These facilities have limited resources. We are trying to make sure that women left alone and in need of help are given a place to stay till they can make proper alternative arrangements,” the member said.

Responding to allegations of arrests made on the basis of wrong information in identity cards, a police officer said such claims will have to be proved before court.

“They have been using the Aadhaar cards and other documents to avail all government benefits. Why didn’t they point out such errors before?” he said.

affIDavIt

Date 04/02/2023

I, MISS. THuNDINaRo CHaNg, daughter of MR oNgBou CHaNg resident of HouSe No-75, VeTeRINaRy CoLoNy, BuRMa CaMP, DIMaPuR, NagaLaND do hereby solemnly and affirm as under:

1. That I am a citizen of India.

2. That I am also know as “THuNDINaRo ” and “THuNDINaRo CHaNg”.

3. That “THuNDINaRo CHaNg” “THuNDINaRo” refers to one and the same peron.

4. That henceforth I shall usemy name as “THuNDINaRo CHaNg”.

5. That the above statements are true.

DEPONENT Sworn and declared before me on this 4th day of February 2023 notary puBlIC

DP-567/23

Declaration

We, the Rising People’s Party (RPP) would like to declare that Mr. Joel naGa is our Intending Candidate from the 12 Tseminyu A/C for the 14th NLA General Election and that he has a criminal antecedent with Case No. : G.r 1108/16 UnDer iPc Section 441 ( tre SPa SS in G) which is pending against him in the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Dimapur Nagaland.

DP-596/23(A)

riSinG PeoPle’S PartY

In the Court of Deputy CommIssIoner

DImapur : nagalanD notICe

No. Rev-1/90-D/ Dated Dimapur, the th 2023

Notice is hereby given that Smti Henili a resident of Dimapur who has applied for issue of mortgage clearance concerning to Patta No. of 228 Dag No. 343 measuring an area 00B-01K-18Ls located at Block No/Village Nagarjan Mouza No 3 which has been mortgaged with NIDC Bank/ Society.

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

Amit Shah waves at supporters during a road show organised ahead of the Tripura Assembly elections. (PTI)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at a food stall, in Agartala, Monday. (PTI )

Relatives gather outside police station after arrested people allegedly involved in child marriages. (File Photo)

Will probe scams if BJP voted to power in M’laya: Hek

deomonstrated outside LIC office in Imphal on Adani row on Monday.

SNIPPETS

Two held with 285 kg of marijuana in Gurugram

GURUGRAM, FEB 6

(IANS): Gurugram Police have arrested two drug peddlers and seized 285 kilograms of cannabis from them valued at more than Rs 40 lakh in the market, police said on Monday. The police have also seized a truck which the accused used for the transportation of the contraband from Vishakapatnam (Andhra Pradesh). The arrested culprits were booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and were taken on police remand on Monday, the police said.

Railways JE held for rape

NEW DELHI, FEB 6

(IANS): The Delhi Police have arrested a 28-yearold Junior Engineer (JE) of the Indian Railways for allegedly raping a 24-yearold girl on the pretext of marriage after getting in touch with her through a matrimonial website, an official said on Monday.

The accused has been identified as Vipin Karpanter, a resident of Rajgarh in Madhya Pradesh. He was arrested on February 3.

Houses set on fire after youth’s death in Bihar

PATNA, FEB 6 (IANS):

Over a dozen houses were set on fire following the death of a youth in Bihar’s Saran district on Monday. The victim, Amitesh Kumar and two of his friends were brutally assaulted by Vijay Yadav, the husband of a village head, on Sunday in Mubarakpur. Yadav and his aides carried out the attack after he suspected the three to have allegedly fired at him on February 2. According to the police, Amitesh succumbed to his injuries at the Patna Medical College and Hospital, while the other two were battling for their lives.

2 dead during celebratory firing

JAIPUR, FEB 6 (PTI): A woman and a child were killed and two others sustained injuries after being shot during celebratory firing at a pre-wedding function in Alwar district, police said on Monday. The incident occurred on Sunday night in Khedli, SHO Mahaveer Prasad said. Dinesh Kanwar (35) and Sagar Singh (7) died of bullet injuries while Hansa Kanwar (30) and Prachi (10) were injured, he said.

Girl found in water tank, dies in hospital

KAUSHAMBI, FEB 6

(PTI): A year-old girl, who was found in a water tank, died in a hospital in Tarni village under Pipri police station of Uttar Pradesh, police said on Monday. Superintendent of Police (SP) Brijesh Kumar Srivastava said late on Sunday night, Kavita was sleeping with her one-and-a-half-year-old daughter. After some time she found her missing, following which she informed her family members and neighbours.

Six-year-old boy kidnapped and killed

MHOW, FEB 6 (PTI):

A six-year-old boy was allegedly kidnapped and killed for ransom in Mhow area of Madhya Pradesh’s Indore district, police said on Monday. The police have detained two suspects, and one of them is a relative of the victim, an official said. The boy went missing from Pigdambar village around 6 pm on Sunday and was found dead in a deserted place on Monday, he said.

Modi bats for India as energy hub

RENEWABLE ENERGY, HYDROGEN TO MAKE INDIA WORLD’S 3RD LARGEST ECONOMY

BENGALURU, FEB

6

Will fight till last breath to protect Constitution: Mamata

KOLKATA,

FEB 6 (PTI):

(AGENCIES):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated ‘India Energy Week 2023’ in Bengaluru and said that it is the first major energy event in India’s G20 Presidency Calendar.

The India Energy Week (IEW) 2023 in Bengaluru will be held from Feb. 6 to 8 and is aimed to showcase the country’s rising prowess as an energy transition powerhouse.

This will be PM Modi’s third visit to the pollbound State in less than a month. He visited Hubballi on Jan. 12 where he inaugurated a national youth festival and staged a massive roadshow. On Jan. 19, he was in Yadgiri and Kalaburagi Districts.

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot and Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai were also present at the PM’s event today.

Addressing the delegates from the energy industry across the country, the PM stressed that there is no better place than India to make energy sector investments.

“The energy sector plays a major role in deciding the future of the world in the 21st century. India is one of the strongest voices

today in developing new resources of energy and in the energy transition. The country which is also all set to become a developed nation, has unprecedented possibilities for the energy sector,” he said.

PM Modi also said that Bengaluru always gives him a special energy whenever he visits the city. “Bengaluru is a city filled with the energy of technology, talent and innovation. Just like me, you too must be feeling the young energy here. This is the first major energy event

in India’s G20 Presidency Calendar and I am glad to be in the city,” added the Prime Minister.

PM Modi met top oil and gas industry leaders for the annual brainstorming to discuss ideas and initiatives to put India on a sustainable growth path, sources aware of the matter said.

The meeting on the sidelines of the India Energy Week in Bengaluru saw the Prime Minister outline his vision to make India the world’s third-largest economy from the current

fifth-largest. For this, the fuel needed should come from renewables, biofuels and hydrogen.

Sources said at the meeting PM Modi spoke of using 100 per cent renewable energy and increasing blends of ethanol and biofuels in traditional fuels.

Also, he talked about making India the world’s largest hydrogen-producing nation.

Hydrogen is the cleanest known fuel which on burning emits only water and oxygen.

Sources said heads of international oil companies such as BP plc of UK, ExxonMobil and TotalEnergies participated. Rosneft head Igor Sechin too attended the meeting.

Heads of Indian public sector companies, as well as international Energy Agency (IEA) executive director Fatih Birol, too attended the meeting. Mining billionaire Anil Agarwal as well as Tullow Oil CEO Rahul Dhir were also present. Sources said industry leaders spoke of imperatives for making India the world leader. Some wanted taxes in the oil and gas sector to be brought down to global levels of 40 per cent from the current 70 per cent, while others talked about enabling ease of doing business through self-certification.

Parties urge govt to stop anti-encroachment drive in JK

SRINAGAR/NEW DEL-

HI, FEB 6 (PTI): Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday hit out at the Lieutenant Governor’s administration over the anti-encroachment drive, with PDP president Mehbooba Mufti accusing the BJP government of turning the union territory into Afghanistan by “demolishing the homes of poor and marginalised”.

Former chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said he was against people encroaching upon State land, but the administration should follow the due process of law.

Peoples Conference president Sajad Lone slammed the government, alleging it was more interested in humiliating the people than retrieving land.

Mehbooba, addressing a press conference in the national capital, alleged the BJP is using its brute majority to “weaponise” everything and “bulldoze” the Constitution.

“Palestine is still better. At least people talk. Kashmir is becoming worse than Afghanistan, the way bulldozers are being used to demolish the homes of people. What is the purpose of demolishing small houses of people,” she said.

Mehbooba said that according to the govern -

Protests in Maisuma against eviction drive

SRINAGAR, FEB 6

(PTI): Awami Awaz Party on Monday held a protest against the eviction drive launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Administration to free the state land from illegal occupation.

ment, even the centuries-old Shankaracharya Temple and cantonment built by the erstwhile Maharaja are also on encroached land.

The PDP leader said Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha might claim that the houses of the poor will not be touched during the antiencroachment drive, but his message is not being heard on the ground as dwellings, even with tin sheds, are being demolished.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief appealed to Opposition leaders in the country not to be a mute spectator to the “atrocities being committed by the BJP”.

“Parties including the Congress, Left, DMK, TMC, Samajwadi Party and others should raise their voices and not remain silent to the atrocities (being committed) on common people

in Jammu and Kashmir,” she said.

In Srinagar, Abdullah said the administration should halt the anti-encroachment drive and allow the people to prove their claims over the properties.

“Bulldozer cannot be the first response of a government. It’s not the government’s job to harass people. Its job is to heal the wounds,” Abdullah told reporters in Srinagar.

The former chief minister said his party was against people grabbing State land illegally. However, the administration must follow the due course of law while carrying out the eviction drive.

Abdullah said allegations have started pouring in that officials are using the demolition drive on the ground to seek illegal gratifications.

PM unveils India’s biggest helicopter manufacturing facility in Tumakuru

over a period of 20 years at this facility in Gubbi taluk, officials said.

The factory, spread across 615 acres for which the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone in 2016, would initially manufacture Light Utility Helicopters (LUH)).

It will enable India to meet its entire requirement of helicopters without import and giving muchneeded fillip to the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in helicopter design, development, and manufacture, they said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai and senior officials of Ministry of Defence were among those present on the occasion.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday that she will fight till her last breath to protect the Constitution.

Speaking at the fourth convocation of St Xavier’s University, where she was conferred an honorary DLitt, Banerjee said everyone should work to protect the unity of this country.

“To protect our constitution, which lays the foundation of India as a secular democratic country, I will fight till my last breath. Let us fight hunger, let us fight poverty, let us fight injustice and inequality,” she said.

St Xavier’s University’s Vice-Chancellor Father Felix Raj said Banerjee was honoured for her contribution to the field of social services and the spread of education.

She was handed the citation of DLitt (Doctor of Letters) in presence of Governor CV Ananda Bose at a function held at the varsity’s New Town campus.

Accepting the citation, Banerjee said she was dedicating it to the people of the state, and of the country, “without whom I am nobody”.

“I am what I am because of the common man,” she added.

She announced that the state government will set up a chair at the private university in the name of Mother Teresa.

“It will contribute to spreading her sacrifice, her mission, her work towards peace and brotherhood and her values across the world through academic activities,” the chief minister said.

Addressing the students, she said, “Never feel depressed and never think negatively.”

Banerjee said over 50

Carrying placards, dozens of activists of the party assembled at the Maisuma market to register their anger against the eviction drive. The placards read “Kindly let us live peacefully” and “India is not Israel.”

Party leader Nadeem Ahmad said the LG administration should stop the demolition drive which has badly affected the poor people.

“Who were affected by the demolition drive at Mehjoor Nagar yesterday? Was there any rich and influential person? They are poor people who are living hand to mouth,” Ahmad told reporters.

He said if the government did not reconsider its eviction drive, the consequences would be very serious.

“Is Kashmir not for the people of Kashmir? You are giving land to outsiders while making Kashmiris homeless,” he added.

Govt trims budget for MGNREGS

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (PTI): Higher allocation towards PM Aawas Yojana and Jal Jeevan Mission led to a decline in the budget for rural job scheme MGNREGS for the next fiscal, Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said on Monday.

Allaying fears of loss of income for rural workers, Nageswaran said that the two schemes, PM Aawas Yojana (PMAY) and Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), are expected to provide employment to the same set of rural workers. The CEA also said due to measures taken by the government, money in the hands of beneficiaries has doubled. The allocation for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Scheme has been cut by almost one-third by FM Nirmala Sitharaman.

Mamata Banerjee being conferred D. Lit by Governor and Vice-Chancellor at the St. Xavier’s Universit, Monday. (PTI) colleges and several universities have been built during her tenure in the state.

The governor said the chief minister “truly deserved” the honorary DLitt because of her long social life and various other activities for public services.

“For her political acumen she already got the recognition from the people,”

Bose said.

“Banerjee got the honour for her contribution in the field of painting, literature and social service,” he added.

In January 2018, the state-run Calcutta University conferred an honorary DLitt on the chief minister in recognition of her social service.

PM Narendra Modi being presented a jacket at the India Energy Week in Bengaluru, Monday, Feb. 6, 2023. (PTI)

Protestors holding placards in the protest against the eviction drive.

PM inaugurates the Helicopter Factory of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) manufacturing facility. (ANI)

Stock bubble bursts

After the January 24 report by Hindenburg Research which alleged that the Adani Group had weak business fundamentals, and was involved in stock manipulation and accounting fraud, all hell literally broke loose across India. The total loss in the last eight trading sessions is worth around Rs 10 lakh crore. The market rout has also forced Adani Enterprises to shelve plans to raise close to $500 million via international bonds and a Rs 20,000 crore FPO. The opposition jumped to attack the Modi government for crony capitalism especially as the Adani group chairman is no other than Gautum Adani a close friend of prime minister Narendra Modi. The opposition has been demanding a debate in parliament on the issue but the government for reasons best known to it, has steadfastly refused the demand. The Budget session witnessed disruptions last week as the Opposition demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe or a probe monitored by the Supreme Court monitored into the issue. Union parliamentary affairs minister Prahlad Joshi clarified that government has nothing to do with the issues related to Adani Group and by that logic, it meant that the government will not talk about it and that by disruption both houses of parliament, opposition has no other issues to raise. He also rejected the demand of a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe into the matter as demanded by the opposition. This left the opposition with no option but to create ruckus in frustration. The government has been saying all along that it is ever ready to debate or discuss issues on the floor of the house but when the opposition raised issues to be discussed, the government did not say no but why these could not be discussed. This was evident when the government refused to discuss the Indo-China border skirmishes, Pegasus row and the massive nationwide uproar when Ashish Mishra, son of union minister of state for home Ajay Mishra ‘Teni’, mowed down scores of farmers at Lakhimpur Kheri. The opposition demanded removal from the ministry of Ajay Mishra but the government refused even for discussing the matter in parliament. It may be recalled that during the UPA rule, the BJP was the main opposition and had justified disruption of parliament as legitimate democratic means. The Modi government had run through the three farm laws in September 2020 without any proper discussion and scrutiny by the relevant parliamentary committee. After managing to woo the agitating farmers, it again pushed through the repeal bill within minutes, refusing to allow any discussion. The Adani stock scam is serious as it has had a global domino effect of large financial institutions like Citigroup, Credit Suisse, and others distancing themselves from providing margin loans against Adani Group securities. Out of 10 Adani stocks, six were locked in their lower circuit limits. Even SEBI which oversees the stock market has not done anything after SBI posted a huge loss of around Rs. 80,000crore and LIC around Rs.70,000 crore. The opposition maintained that the money invested by SBI and LIC was hard earned money of the depositors and thus, constituted a serious fraud. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh on February 5 said that the Centre has maintained a “loud silence” which smacks of collusion. Perhaps that brings to mind an African saying, “If the dog is not barking when the thief is stealing, it means both are friends”.

DailyDevotion

Are You Ready To Be Poured Out As an Offering? (2)

I am already being poured out as a drink offering…

—2 Timothy 4:6

Are you ready to be poured out as an offering?

It is an act of your will, not your emotions. Tell God you are ready to be offered as a sacrifice for Him. Then accept the consequences as they come, without any complaints, in spite of what God may send your way. God sends you through a crisis in private, where no other person can help you. From the outside your life may appear to be the same, but the difference is taking place in your will. Once you have experienced the crisis in your will, you will take no thought of the cost when it begins to affect you externally. If you don’t deal with God on the level of your will first, the result will be only to arouse sympathy for yourself.

“Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar” (Psalm 118:27). You must be willing to be placed on the altar and go through the fire; willing to experience what the altar represents— burning, purification, and separation for only one purpose— the elimination of every desire and affection not grounded in or directed toward God. But you don’t eliminate it, God does. You “bind the sacrifice…to the horns of the altar” and see to it that you don’t wallow in self-pity once the fire begins. After you have gone through the fire, there will be nothing that will be able to trouble or depress you. When another crisis arises, you will realize that things cannot touch you as they used to do. What fire lies ahead in your life?

Tell God you are ready to be poured out as an offering, and God will prove Himself to be all you ever dreamed He would be.

Quotes

He who has never learned to obey cannot be a good commander. ~ Aristotle

7 best ways to reduce pollution in Indian cities

That all-around pollution has been one of the most pressing and exacting challenges that we face today is not an overstatement. Holding the dubious distinction of hosting 35 of the 50 global cities with the worst air quality, India is indeed the pollution capital of the world. While this persistent scourge has continued to play havoc with people’s health, for policymakers, the sheer scale, the spread and the complexity of the challenge have been daunting enough. For the world’s fastest-growing major economy today, aspiring to touch the $5 trillion mark in the nearest possible time, the dilemma of finding that fine balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability becomes particularly acute. Even as pollution is a country-wide menace, how can we contain and reduce pollution at least in the Indian cities and urban locations? More specifically, since transport-related emissions are some of the biggest contributors to city pollution, what are some of the ways to reduce pollution and related effects in Indian cities? Not just aspirational,

but a pragmatic decarbonisation of the transport sector, both passenger and freight First, pragmatic decarbonisation of the transport sector, through the use of much lower carbon fuels, should become a top and immediate priority for the authorities. We must be mindful of the fact that India’s transport sector is responsible for 13.5 per cent of the country’s energy-related CO2 emissions, with road transport accounting for 90 per cent of the sector’s final energy consumption. Furthermore, it has been estimated that transportation sources are responsible for approximately a third of PM pollution, perhaps the most harmful pollutant to human health which also contributes high to nitrogen oxides emissions in the country. Nonetheless, the scope of the decarbonisation programme must be extended to both personal/ private vehicles and heavy duty vehicles (HDVs). For private vehicles, relaxing policy norms for uptake of alternative fuels such as auto LPG as compared to traditional carbon-based and heavily polluting petrol and diesel must drive the decarbonisation programme.

e Nagas think that all politicians are leaders. This is because there was a time when people who led us eventually became politicians. But the important thing is they were leaders before they became politicians. For instance, leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Dr. S. C Jamir, HokisheSema and many of their contemporaries were leaders who became politicians. Today, we look at politicians as ‘the leaders’ and expect them to be the Messiah for all our problems. We must be barking at the wrong tree since the problems of yesterday are still the problems of today.

Notably, auto LPG has a global warming potential (GWP) of zero as opposed to methane’s 25 and carbon dioxide’s 1. Moreover, not only does it produce a lower amount of carbon dioxides per unit of heat produced, with a low carbon-hydrogen ratio, it lets off negligible amounts of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. Similarly, since India has seen rapid growth in freight road transport in recent decades on the back of rising demand for heavy duty vehicles, especially the ICE-based HDVs, there has been a spillover effect in the form of higher demand for fossil fuels and thereby higher pollution. We need to contain this demand for HDVs, especially the long-range trucks and the resultant use of fossil fuels.

Strive for full-fledged electrification of railways

Second and flowing from the first, we need to achieve full-fledged electrification of our railways. This would release the pressure and load on the freight road transport in the country. While 54 per cent of conventional passenger demand and 65 per cent of freight demand is today carried out on electrified railways, we need to invest more to increase this

electrification footprint.

Incorporate transitoriented development models in urban planning

Third, with transportation increasingly constituting the fulcrum around which a city life today operates and evolves, we must contemplate and develop urban planning strategies predicated on transit-oriented development models. This means designing or redesigning (existing urban units) our urban spaces in a way that concentrates housing, jobs, and services around public transport hubs while facilitating easy and safe movement of pedestrians and non-motorized modes of mobility such as bicycles. Copenhagen with its five-finger plan and Brazil’s Curitiba are exemplary models for transit-oriented urban development. Disincentivize high carbon liquid fuelled private transport through policy

Fourth, simultaneously, we must disincentivize through policy - such as increased taxes and new regulations - the use of private transport vehicles. For instance, there could be more road tax and parking charges for usage of private

vehicles, particularly those which run on high carbon liquid fossil fuels with an eye on restricting the presence of personal vehicles on roads. Also, people should be encouraged to undertake the pooling of their personal vehicles.

Expand railway’s Rollon Roll-off (RO-RO) service to Delhi to other cities Fifth, we could consider replicating the RO-RO service offered to Delhi by the Indian Railways to the other major cities in the country. Given that traffic congestion stemming from stop-and-go traffic flow increases emissions, taking the heavily loaded trucks and lorries onto railway wagons under the RO-RO service and off the roads would go a long way in addressing city emissions. While questions have been raised over the financial feasibility of this exercise, it is not impossible to find a way out. In addition, we should deploy and operate smart traffic systems on our city roads.

Implement an emissions trading system

Sixth, we should widely encourage market-based emissions trading mechanisms in which the government sets a cap for emissions

and allows companies to buy and sell permits to stay below the cap thereby keeping pollution under control. This involves emitting firms obtaining and surrendering a permit for each unit of emissions. Those lacking enough permits must have to reduce emissions or buy permits from another firm. Gujarat has introduced world’s first emissions trading system for particulate pollution. This must be replicated across the country. Afforestation and foster green habits and practices And seventh, we must make our cities greener through the planting of more trees and enough vegetation in order to provide a filter and sink for city pollutants. Also, green buildings should be encouraged in terms of their design and material of construction while employing renewables such as solar power and green appliances within. At the same time, city people should use green and recyclable materials in their daily lives. In sum, these are seven very effective ways to reduce pollution levels in our cities.

Suyash Gupta, Director General, Indian Auto LPG Coalition

WPoliticians are not Leaders Enhancing Skill Development as a Student

leadership. It is politicians who pose as leaders. This has plagued our society for so long and perhaps it will continue in perpetuity if we do not start looking for competent leaders as politicians. We do not talk about this often but another factor that stop us from progressing is the reluctance on society to give leadership to young people.

In fact, many of us serve them like they are gods and look at them with awe and reverence. I don’t mean that all politicians are not leaders. There are some of them who are really good leaders but the caveat is a politician do not become a leader per se by winning elections.

The reason why we have corruption, unemployment, lack of basic amenities like water and electricity, deplorable road conditions and pathetic health system is mostly because of the wrong perception we have about leaders. The real problem is not

The irony is we do not give responsibility to young people when they are energetic and full of idealism. We look for experience and the so called wise men to serve society. They may have the wisdom and experience yet the problem here is they lack the youthful energy, vision and idealism to live and die for the people. To be honest, most politicians today look at election as a business venture. It is a give-a-few and take-a-lot game for them. Another batch of politicians are retired bureaucrats who have nothing else to do but to contest elections and live in the same past glory where people called them Saheb.

Truth be told, the fundamental reason why they were given retirement is not because they exuberate freshness and visions. Retirement is a way of telling them, “You gave your best

Politics and Political rights

Politics and political rights are interrelated and are crucial elements of a functioning democracy. Political rights refer to the rights of individuals to participate in the political process, including the right to vote, the right to run for public office, and the right to free speech and expression. These rights are considered essential for citizens to have a voice in the decision-making process and for the functioning of a democratic society. The protection of political rights is central to the functioning of a democratic government and is enshrined in international human rights treaties and national constitutions. In many countries, political rights are considered to be a cornerstone of civil liberties and are protected through laws and legal mechanisms.

However, political rights are not always protected and can be violated in many ways, including through electoral fraud, government censorship, and restrictions on the freedom of speech and expression. In some countries, political rights are also restricted based on factors such as race, gender, or religion, which is a violation of the principles of democracy.

To ensure the protection of political rights, it is important for governments to establish independent bodies such as election commissions and human rights organizations that can monitor and report on any violations of political rights.

Civil society organizations, media outlets, and the legal system also play a crucial role in protecting political rights by advocating for their enforcement and bringing violations to light.

In conclusion, political rights are essential for the functioning of a democratic society and are protected through international human rights treaties, national constitutions, and legal mechanisms. However, political rights are not always protected, and it is important for governments, civil society organizations, media outlets, and the legal system to work together to ensure their enforcement.

Yours sincerely Swuto Swu, Dimapur

service when you were young and energetic. Now it is time for you to leave the rest of the work to others who are young and full of energy to serve the society.” The future cannot belong to the younger generations if we are not given leadership and allowed to participate in important decision making process when we have the energy and the strength to serve society. Trust your young people. Not too long ago we were pagan worshippers who practiced head hunting and indeed our society is quite young to be fair yet we have to move forward at the pace of a growing global economy. In order for us to participate and engage with the dynamism of globalisation, I believe it is not late for us to change the way we perceive and choose who our leaders are. Politicians will come and go but a leader remains steadfast in serving the people and the community. We are given yet another chance to choose our politicians. I hope we do not simply elect politicians. Leaders are what we need desperately today.

Toshi O. Longkumer, Advocate, Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench

In the wake of faster growing of the world with unemployment ratio increasing as well, it is necessary to focus on enhancing and advancing the skills sets of the young minds of the country. The elders say “Younger generation are the tomorrow’s future” yet it stays only in the words and not in action future refers only to the Government Jobs.

The traditional education system has trained students to assess themselves in terms of marks and grades. The students play a very important role in the development of the country, there is no hope for successful country if there are no educated people and policy for better education students who learn today they will work for future of the country.

However, introducing skillbased learning at an early age prepares children for the real world which is beyond test scores.

Children develop clear objectives as they get an opportunity to explore different facts of life, most students even after completing their education remain clueless about the career path to choose, it is because they never got a chance to identify their true passion and

talents and have focused on merely memorizing concept without actually applying them in real life. Skill development helps build a strong foundation for students at the school level, it helps them build self-esteem, confidence, and leadership skills, and they learn with a clear objective instead of focusing solely on passing an exam and scoring high marks in the short run.

It also helps them develop problem-solving skills, collaboration, and to become an independent thinker and encourage them to plan for their future. Learning new skills requires students to be willing to experiment, while doing so they might face failures and disappointment but that will eventually prepare them to accept failures gracefully and develop a never give up the frame of mind.

Students will develop a growth mind-sets as they try new things, fail, and carry on with perseverance. Being unafraid to fail is an important success in life, and children learn this important life lesson at a young age.

Immanuel College, Riongchang Jamir, Department of Economics

Does Pathaan’s success mark start of a pushback against hate?

The verdict was out on the very day of its release. Pathaan, the Shah Rukh Khan starrer, was set to be a blockbuster. And so it is – in the first week after it hit the theatres, the film has grossed over Rs 600 crore worldwide, and over Rs 300 crore in the domestic market.

It is shattering all manner of boxoffice records as screaming, ecstatic fans throng cinema halls everywhere and lap up the gorgeous King Khan’s latest turn as a Mission Impossible-style action hero (but did we ever see such jaw-dropping abs on Tom Cruise?), a patriot nonpareil, prepared to shed the last drop of his blood to save his country, and, indeed, the world.

The monster success of Pathaan is not just an affirmation of the 57-yearold Shah Rukh Khan’s mesmeric hold on the public imagination. It is not merely proof that even after three decades in the film industry, SRK has what it takes to deliver a giant hit and lift Bollywood out of the doldrums into which it had fallen in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The success of Pathaan is also exhilarating because it shows that despite the best efforts of some of our political leaders to spread hate and divisiveness, Indians retain their essential humanism. They can and will reject hate after a point, especially if its object is to vilify that which they hold dear.

The right-wing fusillade against Pathaan started more than a month before it was released. Narottam Mishra, the home minister of Madhya Pradesh, who is usually first off the block when it comes to banning this or that for their alleged moral turpitude, decreed that

the film’s song Besharam Rang, featuring a stunning Deepika Padukone in a variety of skimpy swimwear, was picturised with noxious intent. Her saffron bikini was particularly objectionable, the BJP leader said, and declared that unless the offensive bits were excised, the film may not be shown in the state.

What happened next followed an all too familiar pattern: the call to oppose the movie was quickly picked up by the proxies of Hindutva groups and their troll armies on social media.

Until the movie released on January 25, #BoycottBollywood and #BoycottPathaan trended on social media, right-wing goons ripped off the movie’s posters, and one wondered if Pathaan would suffer the same fate as Aamir Khan’s Laal Singh Chaddha, which got a lukewarm reception, due in part to a vicious campaign against yet another Khan who bestrides Bollywood.

But perhaps the common man had had enough. When the guns were trained on one more beloved icon, who happened to be Muslim, perhaps it simply did not go down well with people. Perhaps they recalled SRK’s ordeal in 2021 when his son Aryan was kept behind bars and denied bail for almost a month, on charges of drug use which could not be proven.

Perhaps they remembered the way the superstar had maintained a dignified silence on the episode, even though it stank of unabashed persecution. And when Pathaan released in the face of this pumped-up, manufactured hate, perhaps people decided to repudiate it by showing up in droves at the theatres.

Sure, the movie is a fast-paced crowd-pleasing cocktail of spectacular

action scenes, deshbhakti, evil Pakistani general, a deadly tussle between “good Indian” and “bad Indian”, and a comely Pakistani spy (played by, who else, but the long-stemmed Deepika Padukone). And it has a subtext that is of significance in these communally polarised times. The hero is an orphan – he does not know if he was born a Hindu or a Muslim – and was christened ‘Pathaan’ after he saved an Afghan village from a missile attack. In other words, his only identity is that of a patriotic Indian who will always be on the side of the good.

That Pathaan is a hit is not a surprise. But would the scale of it have been as mind-boggling if King Khan not been perceived to have been unjustly targeted? After all, the film is also gloriously mindless in parts and requires you to suspend disbelief in large doses.

In truth, the euphoric response to Pathaan, one that is pushing its revenue collection to stratospheric levels, is an outpouring of love and support for a superstar who shuns controversy but has evidently not pledged his fealty to the powers that be.

The mood of the people was not lost on the politicians, and BJP leaders, including the prime minister himself, suddenly started urging people not to give calls for boycotting films.

In other words, if the pushback against hate is strong enough, its purveyors will backtrack. And therein lies the real triumph of Pathaan. You never know what will trigger a popular revolt against the poison of divisiveness. Maybe, just maybe, Pathaan marks the beginning of that turnaround.

Shuma Raha, (The Wire)

SNIPPETS

Wild animals’ body parts seized; 5 arrested BARIPADA (ODISHA), FEB 6 (PTI): Five people were arrested and some wild animals’ body parts and two country-made guns were seized from their possession in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, forest officials said on Monday. Acting on a tipoff, officials of the Similipal Tiger Reserve seized a bone of an elephant, a turtle shell, and bones of some other wild animals during a raid in Paikabasa village in Baripada area, its Divisional Forest Officer Santosh Joshi said. A case under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 was registered and the five arrested people were produced before SDJM court, Baripada, which sent them to 14 days in judicial custody.

Najafgarh man found dead on road

NEW DELHI, FEB 6

(PTI): A 23-year-old man was found dead on a road in southwest Delhi’s Baba Haridas Nagar area, police said on Monday. A body with head injuries to head was found on Saturday by some locals, who informed the Police about it. The man was taken to Rao Tula Ram Memorial Hospital for the treatment where he was declared brought dead, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) M Harsha Vardhan said. Suspects have been identified and teams have been formed to nab them, police added.

Tribal woman gangraped by 3 men

GWALIOR, FEB 6 (PTI): A 28-year-old tribal woman was gangraped allegedly by three persons in Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, a police official said on Monday. As per the woman’s complaint, she was looking for a job and a man offered her one at a stone crushing unit in Bilaua area, Additional Superintendent of Police Jairaj Kuber said. Two persons have been arrested while efforts are on to nab the third, he added.

CBI arrests 3 in bribe case

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (IANS): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday arrested three persons including two officials of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) and a contractor in connection with a bribe case, an official said, adding that the probe agency also recovered Rs 1.02 crore in cash. The arrested individuals were identified as Santosh Kumar -- senior section engineer at Railways, a resident of Assam’s Silchar; Sajjan Kumar, a contractor of a private company based in Guwahati; and Rampal, a deputy chief engineer with Railways.

Man stoned to death in Delhi’s Dwarka

NEW DELHI, FEB 6

(IANS): A 23-year-old man was stoned to death in Delhi’s Dwarka area, the police said on Monday, adding they have identified the suspects. The deceased has been identified as Bunty a.k.a. Vicky, a resident of Gopal Nagar in Najafgarh.

“At around 9.37 p.m. on Saturday, information was received at Baba Haridas Nagar police station regarding a person lying on the road having injuries on his head,” a police officer said.

Delhi man kills paralysed father

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (IANS): A Delhi man has been arrested for strangling his paralysed father to death after the latter urinated in his bed, a police official said on Monday. The accused has been identified as Sumit.

Adani row: Cong holds nationwide demonstrations

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (AGENCIES): Against the backdrop of the controversy about the Adani Group over allegations of financial irregularities and market manipulation, Congress party workers staged nationwide protests outside State Bank of India (SBI) branches and Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) offices on Monday.

The Indian Youth Congress staged a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday and demanded a joint parliamentary committee probe into the fraud allegations against the Adani Group.

Led by IYC national president Srinivas B V, the protesters raised slogans against the Modi government and carried placards reading: “Taxpayers’ money through SBI and LIC was poured into the Adani Group. But now why govt has no answers”.

In Rajasthan, the Congress party staged demonstrations to draw the public’s attention to the Adani issue, a party spokesperson said.

He said the protests were held to highlight that SBI and LIC have made risky investments in the

(From p-1)

Yes, there has been clear lapse and there is nothing wrong in admitting a mistake”.

Nataraj said that on July 4, 2021, when the alleged incident had taken place, the victim had gone to a police outpost in Sector 37 in Noida where no senior police official but constables were present. Hence, no complaint was registered, he said. “Then he went to the hospital in Jamia Nagar and gave a statement to the Delhi Police that he was robbed, assaulted and suffered injuries. No where he said that it was a case of hate crime or was assaulted because he was Muslim,” Nataraj said.

Justice Nagarathna said, “At any point of time the victim cannot be met with disparaging remarks. Victim should not make it look as if he is a perpetrator of crime”.

Justice Joseph said be in minority or majority, certain rights are inherent in human beings. “You are born into a family and raised in one. We have no choice on our religion, but

Oppn flays Telangana govt budget for false promises

Congress staged a dharna and sought an impartial investigation into the allegations made against the Adani group in the Hindenburg Research report.

The party leaders sought the probe to be conducted either under the watch of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) or by a joint parliamentary committee (JPC). They alleged that the Modi government was selling all the government properties and giving benefits to a few selected industrialists.

Adani group, endangering the hard-earned savings of people.

PHED Minister Mahesh Joshi, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Pratap Singh Khachariawas and other leaders participated in the protest.

In Lucknow, Congress staged a protest march amid heavy police deployment demanding a detailed inquiry into the Hindenburg allegations against the Adani group, conducted, either by a Joint Parliamentary Committee or the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

The party also handed over a memorandum of its demands, addressed to the

President of India, to the Commissioner of Police.

In Punjab, Congress workers demanded a probe into the accusations made against the Adani group in the Hindenburg research report. Demonstrations were held at Baranla, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Nawanshahr, Phagwara, Hoshiarpur, Patiala, Amritsar and Faridkot.

In Hoshiarpur, local Congress workers led by former MLA and District Congress Committee president Arun Kumar Dogra staged a ‘dharna’ for about an hour in front of the local office of LIC. They also shouted slogans against the BJP.

In Himachal Pradesh,

The call for nationwide protests was given by All India Congress Chief (AICC), said state Congress chief, Pratibha Singh, accusing the Modi government of exposing the masses’ investments to risk. The ruling Congress in Chhattisgarh on Monday staged protests in front of the LIC and SBI offices in all the district headquarters across the state. The protesters sought a joint parliamentary probe into the allegations against the Adani group as well as a white paper on the issue from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Union government.

Addressing the gathering outside the Jai St -

we stand out as a nation. That’s the beauty, the greatness of our nation. We have to understand this,” he told Nataraj.

Justice Joseph referring to a recent incident in Rajasthan said a mute person was attacked but it was later found that the victim was Hindu. “If you ignore this (hate crime), then one day it will come for you,” he said, adding that there is no doubt that some people have a communal attitude.

The ASG said that eight FIRs have been registered against the gang members and action has been taken against them.

The bench then asked when the first FIR was registered against the gang members and how many people were arrested and were they the same people, who attacked the victim and when were they bailed out.

Nataraj said he will file an affidavit giving details of all the FIRs but pointed out that the first FIR was registered in June 2021 against the “screwdriver gang” members and they have not discriminated in attacking Muslims or Hindus.

ambh Chowk branch of SBI, Chhattisgarh Congress chief Mohan Markam said the allegations show LIC and SBI made “risky investments” in the Adani group.

The common man, who has been affected by the stock rout, needs to know who sanctioned such “disproportionate loans” from state entities to the group, Markam said.

Congress supporters staged protests outside SBI and LIC offices across 24 districts of the state demanding probe.

In Jharkhand capital Ranchi, Congress supporters staged a demonstration outside the SBI branch in the Kutchery area and the LIC office in the Hinoo area with placards and posters.

“It is a serious concern that the central government allowed investment of public money, held by the LIC and SBI, in the Adani group. Common men are in for a great loss,” state Congress president Rajesh Thakur said. “We demand that the government discuss the issue in Parliament. Government should use the CBI and ED rightly in such a case,” he said.

HYDERABAD, FEB 6

(PTI): The opposition BJP and Congress in Telangana on Monday alleged that the BRS government’s budget for 2023-24 presents inflated numbers and makes only false promises.

Union Tourism and Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy said the budget was full of lies, inflated numbers and false promises.

“Farmhouse family allocated Rs. 1,000 cr for Advertisement & Publicity - a 575% increase. Almost same amount as allocated for Arogya Sree Health Insurance scheme for poor,” Kishan Reddy tweeted.

The BRS government’s budgets have a history of “high budgetary projections, decreased revised estimates and low actual spending,” the Union minister added.

“This year too the same trend continues. People are fed up with such gimmicks and will see through this and say no...,” Kishan Reddy further said.

In a statement, Telangana BJP president and MP Bandi Sanjay Kumar said there is absolutely no match between what was allocated

in the budget and what was spent. In the previous budget, not even 50 per cent of the allocated funds were utilised, he claimed.

“Now, the finance minister presents a huge outlay in the present budget only to hoodwink the people,” Kumar claimed.

With regard to the ‘Dalit Bandhu’ scheme, the government had not spent much on the scheme last year though it had allocated Rs 17,700 crore, the BJP leader added.

Kumar said the allocations made for irrigation and power sectors were not sufficient even to repay the borrowings and the salaries of employees.

Finding fault with the state government for criticising the Centre for not releasing funds to the state, Kumar said many of the schemes mentioned in the budget document were funded by the Union government. Congress MP N Uttam Kumar Reddy claimed that the proposed expenditure of Rs 2.90 lakh crore was completely unrealistic as it does not match the state’s revenues.

House adjourned without electing mayor again

BJP,AAPcontinue blamegame

NEW DELHI, FEB 6

(PTI): The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday launched an all-out attack on the BJP, accusing it of hatching a conspiracy to stall the mayoral election for a third time by disrupting the MCD House.

The AAP, which fielded several leaders to attack the BJP over the issue, said it will move the Supreme Court to demand a courtmonitored poll. “The BJP wants to run the MCD forcibly and hence it is resorting to ruckus in the House,” Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia told a press conference.

“The BJP resorted to ruckus while the AAP councillors were sitting peacefully. The ruckus created by the BJP shows that the party does not believe in the Constitution, laws and they only believe in hooliganism,” he said.

The deputy chief minister further alleged that the BJP is “running the MCD” with the help of officers and taking “wrong” decisions.

As the Municipal Cor-

poration of Delhi (MCD)

House assembled around 11:30 am, a delay of half-anhour, the presiding officer announced that elections to the posts of mayor, deputy mayor and Standing Committee members will be held simultaneously and that aldermen will be allowed to vote. This drew protests from AAP councillors with party leader Mukesh Goel saying the aldermen can’t vote. AAP MP Sanjay Singh alleged that presiding officer Satya Sharma, appointed by the LG, disregarded all constitutional laws.

“Presiding officer Satya Sharma said that the alderman will have voting rights. Our question is, where has this rule come from? Will the LG define the constitution now?” Singh asked at a press conference. The presiding officer said the polls will be held simultaneously which is also wrong as the agenda stated that the mayoral elections will be held first, the AAP leader said. Emerging from the House, AAP leader Atishi told reporters, “We will go to the Supreme Court, and we will go today itself

so that the mayoral elections can be held in a courtmonitored manner.”

“Our demands are that the mayoral election be held in a time-bound manner in the next two weeks and the aldermen be not allowed to vote,” she said.

Atishi claimed the BJP had planned to disrupt the proceedings so that the House could be adjourned.

The first two sessions of the municipal House -held on January 6 and January 24 -- were adjourned by the presiding officer without electing a mayor following a ruckus and acrimonious exchanges between the members of the BJP and the AAP. According to the Delhi Municipal Corporation

(DMC) Act, 1957, the mayor and the deputy mayor are to be elected in the very first session of the House after the civic polls. However, it’s been two months since the municipal elections were held on December 4 and Delhi is yet to get a mayor. The BJP on Monday accused the Aam Aadmi Party of resorting to excuses to stall the mayoral election, as the MCD House was adjourned for a third time in a month without completing the poll process. Minutes before the MCD House meeting, the BJP paraded its nine councillors at its Delhi Unit office, alleging that AAP was trying to poach them with money.

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Interested candidates may submit handwritten application on or before 10/02/2023. Shortlisted candidates shall be called for interview.

Congress workers stage a protest demanding inquiry into Adani row after Hindenburg report, in Lucknow. (PTI)

No scope for hate crimes on basis of religion, says SC

BJP councillors shout slogan against AAP councillors during the elections of Mayor and Deputy Mayor. (PTI)

MCD

100 airports to be developed by 2024 under UDAN scheme

Rio kicks off 2023 election campaign; files nomination

(From p-1) solution at the earliest to usher in a new era of progress and development and also provide opportunities to talented Naga youth.

He said the State government, as a facilitator on Naga political issue, was pursuing an early solution with all seriousness and assured to continue doing the same if voted to power.

On 40:20 seat-sharing formula, he disclosed that the proposal was made by BJP and that the agreement was reached in presence of senior leaders from both the parties and that matter was well settled.

He acknowledged the high command of BJP for respecting NDPP leadership and exuded confidence to meet the expectations of BJP.

Rio informed the media that the alliance partners would work on a common minimum programme for the people in the State.

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (IANS):

The government has planned to develop 100 airports by 2024 under the Regional Connectivity scheme (RCS)-Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) infrastructure scheme. Upgradation and modernization of airports is a continuous process and is undertaken by Airports Authority of India (AAI) and other airport operators from time to time depending on the availability of land, commercial viability, socio-economic considerations, traffic demand/ willingness of airlines to operate to/from such airports,

said Minister of State, Civil Aviation, V.K. Singh said in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha on Monday.

Development of new airports during the next five years include construction of Greenfield Airports at Navi Mumbai in Maharashtra, Vijayapura, Hassan and Shivamogga in Karnataka, Noida (Jewar) in Uttar Pradesh, Dholera and Hirasar in Gujarat, and Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh.

Further, modernisation and upgradation work at existing Brownfield Airports include development works being undertaken at Delhi, Ben-

galuru, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Guwahati, Ahmedabad, and Mangaluru airports. The AAI and other airport operators have targeted capital outlay of approximately Rs 98,000 crore in the airport sector across India by 2025 for construction of Greenfield Airports and new terminals, expansion and modernisation of existing terminals and strengthening of runways, among other activities. Out of this, more than Rs 25,000 crore capital expenditure is being incurred by AAI and the remaining by private airport operators/developers, the Minister’s reply noted.

Adani Group promoters to prepay $1.11 bn

Applauding the people for giving him the opportunity to serve as chief minister for the fourth time, Rio asserted that the development activities that took place in the past few years during his tenure were much more than what the State had witnessed in the past. He hoped to continue working for the welfare of people of the State.

Earlier, in his introductory speech, NDPP chief agent Theyiekielie Tachü urged party workers and supporters to apprise the people of the government schemes, such as CM Health Insurance Scheme and CM Micro Finance, while exhorting them to work hand-in-hand in choosing an able leader.

The programme was chaired by NDPP president 11 Northern Angami II A/C Vibeilietuo Kets, invocation by Chiephobozou CRC pastor Pavi Pao and special number by Zakuosa Zhale and Vilavor Loucü and CYA Catholic church choir, Chiephobozou.

NEW DELHI, FEB

(PTI): Adani Group on Monday said that the promoters will pre-pay $1,114 million for the release of pledged shares of its firms ahead of the maturity in September 2024. These shares belong to Adani Ports & Special Economic Zones, Adani Green Energy and Adani Transmission, a statement said.

“This is in continuation of promoters’ assurance to pre-pay all share-backed financing,” it said.

This statement as -

RBI’s MPC meeting starts amid expectations of lower rate hike

MUMBAI, FEB 6 (PTI):

RBI Governor Shaktikanta

Das-headed Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) started its three-day meeting on Monday amid expectations of a smaller 25 basis points rate increase or a pause on the rate hiking spree that started in May last year to check inflation. The decision of the six-member rate setting panel will be announced by the Governor on Wednesday.

With retail inflation showing signs of moderation and remaining below the Reserve Bank of India’s 6 per cent upper tolerance level, and projected slowdown in GDP growth in the next fiscal starting April, experts are of the opinion that the central bank may only opt for a 25 basis points hike in the key interest rate.

Another opinion is that the RBI may press the pause button on rate hike on Wednesday itself.

“We expect the RBI to pause in February policy,” State Bank of India’s Economic Research Department said in a report titled ‘Prelude to MPC Meeting on Feb 6-8, 2023’.

In the current rate cycle, it said that rate actions, both hikes and cuts, have been largely synchronised with actions of the monetary authorities in the developed nations. The stance, the SBI report said could continue to be withdrawal of accommodation, even as liquidity is close to neutral.

“Even though the RBI could pause as it allows past rate actions to work with long and variable lags, the RBI could

still guide the markets with a rate action in future that will be purely data dependent,” it said. According to the report, 6.25 per cent repo rate could be the terminal rate for now.

In its December monetary policy review, the central bank raised the key benchmark interest rate (repo) by 35 basis points (bps) after delivering three back-to-back increases of 50 bps. Since May last year, the RBI has increased the shortterm lending rate by 225 basis points to contain inflation, mostly driven by external factors, especially global supply chain disruption following the Russia-Ukraine war outbreak.

Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist at Bank of Baroda, said the credit policy will be announced against the background of both the Budget

that was presented as well as the Economic Survey that served as the prelude to it. The Budget has maintained a virtually unchanged borrowing programme while the Survey has pointed to the persistence of higher interest rates in the coming year.

While inflation has been trending downwards, there has been a tendency for core inflation to remain sticky. Inflation has come down mainly due to lower food inflation which can be volatile. Also, the decision taken this time cannot be reversed soon, he said.

“Under these conditions, the RBI will pitch for another 25 bps hike in the repo rate which will be the last in this cycle, and then pause. The stance however may change from the withdrawal of accommodation

to neutral as liquidity is no longer in a large surplus. In fact, based on developments that take place, there may be need to infuse liquidity during the course of the year,” Sabnavis opined. The RBI has been tasked to ensure that retail inflation remains at 4 per cent with a margin of 2 per cent. However, it failed to keep the inflation rate below six per cent for three consecutive quarters beginning January 2022.

However, the retail inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has shown signs of moderation in November and December as it fell below the RBI’s upper tolerance level of 6 per cent.

The MPC consists of three RBI officials and three external members appointed by the central government.

6

sumes significance in view of the allegations of fraud and stock manipulation by a short-seller against the Adani Group, which led to a steep fall in the share prices of group firms.

“In light of the recent market volatility and in continuation of promoters commitment to reduce the overall promoter leverage backed by Adani listed companies shares, we are pleased to inform that promoters have posted the amounts to prepay USD 1,114 million ahead of its maturity of

September 2024”, the statement said.

On pre-payment, 168.27 million shares of Adani Ports & Special Economic Zones representing 12 per cent of the promoter’s holding will be released. In the case of Adani Green, 27.56 million shares representing 3 per cent of the promoter’s holding will be released.

Also, 11.77 million shares of Adani Transmission representing 1.4 per cent of the promoter’s holding will be freed.

State fair price shops to join nationwide ‘ration bandh’

DIMAPUR, FEB 6 (NPN): All Nagaland Fair Price Shop Association (ANFPSA) has affirmed support to the All India Fair Price Shop Dealers’ Federation (AIFPSDF)’s decision to launch “ration bandh” and “PoS bandh” from February 7-9, 2023 followed by “Parliament march” on March 22, 2023 for pressing its 11-point demand.

In a press release, ANFPSA president Hotoshe Sumi and general secretary G Meijiang informed that the federation had placed 11-point charter of demands, some of which include continue supply of foodgrains under old PMGKAY schemes; ensure minimum monthly income guarantee of Rs. 50,000 in the form of honorarium to FPS dealers; grand 1kg per quintal as handling/transit loss on rice, wheat & sugar and ensure that

Bandhan Bank

hikes interest rates on fixed deposits

KOLKATA, FEB 6 (PTI):

Bandhan Bank on Monday said it has hiked interest rates on fixed deposits by 25-50 basis points based on the maturity period.

The revised FD rates are applicable for retail deposits of up to Rs 2 crore, and are effective from February 6, the Kolkata-based lender said in a release. This is the bank’s second rate hike on fixed deposits in the last three months, following the hardening of rates by the RBI, it said.

due margins be reimbursed for all states/union territory. ANFPSA said the federation was hoping that the Union Budget 2023-2024 could bring some good news and relief for the PDS and the consumers. The federation was particularly expecting that supply of additional foodgrains under PMGKAY would be restored, but that did not happen.

In the light of the above, the federation has decided to go ahead with the protest programme from February 7-9, 2023 followed by “Parliament March” on March 22, 2023 in Delhi. Meanwhile, the association has assured that there would be no disruption in supply and affirmed its commitment to guarantee distribution on all other days of the month. The association expressed hope that beneficiaries/cardholder would extend moral support.

Tata Steel slips into red; posts Rs 2,501.95 cr loss in Q3

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (PTI):

Steel major Tata Steel on Monday reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 2,501.95 crore in the quarter ended on December 31, 2022, on account of higher expenses. The company had posted a net profit of Rs 9,598.16 crore in the year-ago period, according to a regulatory filing. Total income on a consolidated basis fell to Rs 57,354.16 crore in the October-December quarter from Rs 60,842.72 crore ear-

lier. The company’s expenses rose to Rs 57,172.02 crore in the quarter under review from Rs 48,666.02 crore in the year-ago period.

SNIPPETS

Musharraf to be laid to rest in Karachi: Reports

ISLAMABAD, FEB 6 (PTI): The mortal remains of Pakistan’s former military ruler Pervez Musharraf will be brought back to the country in a special flight from Dubai on Monday and will be laid to rest in Karachi, media reports said. Musharraf, the architect of the Kargil War in 1999, died on Sunday in Dubai after a prolonged illness. The 79-year-old former military ruler, who had been in the UAE since 2016, was undergoing treatment for amyloidosis at American Hospital Dubai. Musharraf’s mortal remains will be flown to Pakistan on a special flight at 11:30am local time, according to Geo TV.

Avalanches kill 9 in Italy, Austria as heavy snow hits Alps

FRANKFURT (GERMANY), FEB 6 (AP):

Nine people died in avalanches in Austria and Italy over the weekend as heavy snow and school holidays drew skiers into the Alps, with some of the victims dying after skiing in unmarked areas despite warnings of elevated avalanche risk, police said.

On Sunday a snow plow driver in East Tirol in Austria was recovered dead after being swept away. In Oetztal a 32-year-old Chinese skier died, while in Zillertal a 17-year old male from New Zealand was buried and in Kleinwalsertal a 55-year-old German man missing since Friday was found dead.

More than a dozen avalanches were reported in the Tirol region of Austria alone and authorities had set the warning level at four on a scale of five and urged caution. A 31-yearold German woman was killed on Saturday in the South Tirol region of Italy when a snowmass broke loose at 2,200 metres (7,200 feet) near the Limo Pass some 80 kilometres (50 miles) east of Bolzano, the dpa news agency reported.

3 boys, woman die after migrant boat sinks off Greek island

ATHENS (GREECE),

FEB 6 (AP): Three boys and a woman died when a boat carrying at least 41 migrants crashed on Sunday on a rocky coast on the Greek island of Leros, authorities said. Greece’s Coast Guard said it was alerted by a person who saw a body floating at sea.

Three vessels and a helicopter, joined by a detachment that went overland, reached the point and retrieved the woman’s body, as well as an unconscious boy and 39 other people, six of whom had made it to the rocky coast. One of the boys who died had been found unconscious but was briefly revived in the hospital, the Coast Guard said. Two others who were conscious when they were found also died on Sunday evening in the hospital. Three more minors and two adults were hospitalized early in the afternoon.

Fire damages Buddhist temple in Melbourne

MELBOURNE, FEB 6

(IANS): A Buddhist temple in Melbourne was gutted by fire, with about 80 firefighters battling the blaze on site on Monday.

The Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews were called to the Bright Moon Buddhist Temple in the Australian city’s southeast at about 8 p.m. and arrived to find the large multi-storey building ablaze, reports Xinhua news agency. According to the FRV, the incident has been deemed under control at about 10.35 p.m.

Imran Khan will be arrested if fresh protests are launched: Pak minister

LAHORE, FEB 6 (PTI): Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah on Monday warned Imran Khan that he would be arrested if he dared to launch fresh antigovernment protests, and blamed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief for indulging in the “politics of agitation.” Sanaullah fired the salvo at the former prime minister while speaking to Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) workers at a party convention in Multan in Punjab province, according to the Dawn newspaper. The minister’s warnings come days after Khan instructed his workers and supporters to prepare for the ‘Jail Bharo Tehreek’ (fill the prison movement) against the federal government for inflicting custodial torture on his party leaders and delay in announcing fresh general elections.

Doctors back British Indian medic’s call for Covishield vaccine safety review

Dawn reported, quoting Sanaullah. On the PTI’s Jail Bharo movement, the interior minister said he hoped Khan would be sent to the “same death cell where I was placed during my arrest,” the report said. The minister warned that the federal government was ready to arrest Khan if he dared to launch the protests, it said.

“I ask the people to get ready and wait for my call for ‘jail bharo tehreek’. There will not be that much space in Pakistani jails to have them all,” Khan, the 70-year-old former cricketerturned-politician said during his television address from his Zaman Park residence here on Saturday.

Khan made the announcement after sedition cases were filed against his party’s Senior Vice-President Fawad Chaudhry and

former member of the National Assembly Shandana Gulzar.

On Sunday, Sanaullah blamed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership for “creating troubles”.

“In 2014, PTI staged protest demonstrations and tried to stop the journey of progress and prosperity. Imran Khan is following the politics of agitation in the shape of long marches, sealing Islamabad on the pretext of a date for elections,” the

Pope planning India, Mongolia trips after Lisbon, Marseille

ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE, FEB 6 (AP):

Pope Francis has said he is planning to visit India next year and is studying a possible trip to Mongolia later in 2023 in what would be a first for a pope.

Francis outlined his upcoming travel schedule on Sunday during his flight back to Rome from South Sudan. He confirmed that he would be in Lisbon, Portugal for World Youth Day the first week of August and would participate in a September 23 meeting

of Mediterranean bishops in Marseille, France. He said there was “the possibility” that he would fly from Marseille to Mon-

UK industry body leads first-ever India delegation

golia, which would be a first for a pope.

Looking further ahead, Francis said he thought he would visit India in 2024, after plans for a trip in 2017 fell apart.

Francis spoke to reporters after a six-day visit to Congo and South Sudan, where he was joined in the South Sudanese capital, Juba, by the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and the moderator of the Church of Scotland, the Rt. Rev. Iain Greenshields.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, former minister Farrukh Habib said PTI workers and leaders were waiting for Khan’s call to launch the protests against the federal government. “The party leadership and workers are not afraid of going to jail when Imran Khan calls. I will go to jail first,” he said.

In November last year, Khan was forced to suspend his long march to Islamabad following an assassination attempt on him.

ISLAMABAD, FEB 6

(PTI): Despite his reputation as the man responsible for the “Kargil debacle”, Pakistan’s former military ruler Gen Pervez Musharraf advocated peace with India, helping to bring both countries the “closest to a settlement” on the Kashmir issue, the media here wrote on Monday on the legacy of the late dictator.

Gen Musharraf will long be remembered as a “hero” and a “villain” for his role in the Kargil War with India in 1999, newspaper said in editorials.

Musharraf, who was president between 2001 and

LONDON, FEB 6 (PTI): A number of Indian medical experts on Monday supported calls from an eminent British Indian cardiologist for a full safety review into the use of the Oxford/AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, administered in India as Covishield, over feared serious side effects such as heart attack and stroke.

Dr Aseem Malhotra, a National Health Service (NHS) trained medic who has had two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, is already leading international calls for the suspension of Pfizer’s mRNA COVID vaccine after publishing peer reviewed research last year to warn that the harms could outweigh the benefits for a majority of people. He is in India this week to deliver a series of lectures on COVID vaccines to try and make an “evidencebased case” for their suspension. “The use of the AstraZeneca COVID vaccine was

suspended in a number of European countries in early 2021 because of the link to serious side effects, so it seems odd that India didn’t halt its use also,” said Dr Malhotra. “The rate of reports of side effects that were beyond mild were unprecedented before its use in the UK was phased out in favour of Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine at 800,000 reports after 9.7 million doses. Peer reviewed research published in June 2021 revealed that according to pharmacovigilance data, the AstraZeneca COVID vaccine had a worse safety profile for serious adverse effects in comparison

to an abrupt halt, the Dawn newspaper said in an editorial on the reign of the commando-turned-politician.

to Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine for heart attack, stroke and death in both younger and older adults,” he said. His analysis has found the backing of medical experts in India ahead of his lecture tour in New Delhi and Mumbai this week.

“Besides anecdotal reports of sudden deaths the world over, population level data from many countries show high all-cause mortality following COVID-19 vaccination drives. We should pause at these red signals before rushing ahead heedlessly,” Dr Amitav Banerjee, Epidemiologist and Professor and Head at DY Patil Medical College, Pune, said in a statement released by Dr Malhotra. “The commonly used vaccine in India, Covishield, carries a double whammy of risk. While its use was discouraged in most European countries due to serious side-effects like blood clots, it also carries the risk of myocarditis.

2008, died in Dubai on Sunday after a prolonged illness. He was 79.

Following in the footsteps of military strongmen Ayub Khan and Zia-ul-Haq, Musharraf will be remembered for bringing the democratic process in the country

Musharraf violated the Constitution twice, earning the dubious distinction of being Pakistan’s only military ruler to be sentenced to death for high treason for imposing his second emergency in 2007. “He was something of an enigma as his authoritarian rule was also interspersed with liberal reforms,” the newspaper noted. “Despite his reputation as the man responsible for the Kargil debacle, he advocated for peace with India, helping to bring Paki-

stan and India the closest to a settlement on the Kashmir issue they had ever been,” it said, apparently referring to a four-point formula to resolve the Kashmir issue in 2001. “He will long be remembered as a hero and a villain for his role in Kargil’s 1999 warfare with India.

This was why he was contested closely at home and abroad,” The Express Tribune said in its editorial on Musharraf.

“Yet the late general’s mistakes were considerable, the biggest and most unforgivable being the derailing of the constitutional order,” the Dawn said.

OFFICE OF THE NAGA PEOPLE'S FRONT

16th PFUTSERO-A/C, Phek, Nagaland

To The President Naga People’s Front Nagaland.

Sub: Resignation NPF 16th Pfutsero A/C as well as Active and Primary Membership.

Sir,

LONDON, FEB 6 (PTI):

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has sent its first-ever business delegation to India on Monday aimed at unlocking opportunities from the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) being negotiated between London and New Delhi.

The industry body, which speaks on behalf of 190,000 UK businesses of all sizes and sectors, began a three-day visit covering Mumbai and New Delhi with some of the biggest names from British and Indian industries including HSBC, ICICI Bank, fintech firm Tide and wine and spirits major Pernod Ricard.

The CBI said the delegation will focus on key growth sectors where UK and Indian business can de-

LONDON, FEB 6 (IANS):

Months after a near-lethal attack that left him debilitated and without vision in one eye, Sir Salman Rushdie says that he is “lucky” and has been told that he is “doing very well”. But he still finds it difficult to type or write. I was “lucky ... my main overwhelming feeling is gratitude. I’ve been better. But, considering what happened, I’m not so bad,” he said in an interview with journalist-author David Remnick in ‘The New Yorker’, the BBC reported.

The award-winning novelist was attacked on stage at an event in New York state last August and spent many weeks in hospi-

velop profitable partnerships, such as innovation and sustainability.

“The UK-India relationship is going from strength to strength, so it is fantastic that the CBI is sending its first-ever business delegation to India,” said Greg Hands, UK Minister for Trade Policy at the Department for International Trade (DIT).

“India is on track to become the third largest economy with a quarter of a billion middle-class consumers by 2050 – so the free trade deal we’re negotiating with them could unlock huge benefits for UK firms,” he said. This visit comes against the backdrop of the UK preparing to host the seventh round of FTA talks with India.

tal. He subsequently lost vision in one eye. “The big injuries are healed, essentially. I have feeling in my thumb and index finger and in the bottom half of the palm. I’m doing a lot of hand therapy, and I’m told that I’m doing very well,” he said. Rushdie said it was difficult to type and to write due to a lack of feeling in some of his fingertips. He also said that he has barely been out since the attack, other than to go for hospital appointments. “I’m able to get up and walk around. When I say I’m fine, I mean, there are bits of my body that need constant checkups. It was a colossal attack,” Rushdie said.

Having trust in the able leadership of Thenucho Tunyi and faith in the NPF party, we have been working loyally and tirelessly for the welfare of the party in the Constituency under the leadership of our leader all these years. But denying the Party Ticket to a leader of his stature has dashed all our hopes and aspirations and made us realize that our sacrificial work for the welfare of the Party has all been in vain.

Therefore, having lost faith in the functioning of the Party and the Party Leadership, we hereby resign from our respective post as well as Active and Primary Membership of the NPF with immediate effect.

Name Designation Signature

Chilu Khutso Vice President

Nevahei Cho Vice President

Tewezo Vice President

Dzutsuveyi Vice President

Kolo Chizo Secretary

Zhovehu Vadeo Secretary

Kezhopra Secretary

Vengozo Thira Secretary

Tusove Secretary

Savizo Mero Press Secretary

Dietho Puro Assoc. Press Secretary

Satahu Tunyi Treasurer

D. Lhoupenyi Koza Asst. Treasurer

ADVISORY BOARD

Name Designation Signature

Kewezu Krome Chairman

Pusato Puro Member

Theyiswuyo Kezo Member

Vesusa Member

Pervez Musharraf

Pope Francis

‘Musharraf brought Pak, India closest to a settlement’

‘Find it difficult to write’: Salman Rushdie speaks out after attack

Imran Khan and Rana Sanaullah

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Best R and B Song: “CUFF IT,” Beyonce

Best country album: “A Beautiful Time,” Willie Nelson

Best pop vocal album: “Harry’s House,” Harry Styles.

Best rock album: “Patient Number 9,” Ozzy Osbourne

Best rock performance: “Broken Horses,” Brandi Carlile

Best rock song: “Broken Horses,” Brandi Carlile

Best rap performance: “The Heart Part 5,” Kendrick Lamar

Best rap song: “The Heart Part 5,” Kendrick Lamar

Best melodic rap performance: “WAIT FOR U,” Future featuring Drake and Tems

Best R and B album: “Black Radio III,” Robert Glasper

Best R and B performance: “Hrs and Hrs,” Muni Long

Best traditional R and B performance: “PLASTIC OFF THE SOFA” by Beyoncé

Best progressive R and B album: “Gemini Rights,” Steve Lacy

Best alternative music performance: “Chaise Longue” by Wet Leg

Best alternative music album: “Wet Leg,” Wet Leg

Best audio book, narration and storytelling recording: “Finding Me,” Viola Davis

Best traditional pop vocal album: “Higher,” Michael Bublé

Beyonce accepts the award for best dance/electronic music album for “Renaissance” at the 65th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday. (AP/PTI)

It’s official: Beyonce has the most Grammy wins of all time. On Sunday night, she made history with four wins, bringing her career total to 32, reports ‘Variety’.

Her ‘Renaissance’ win for best dance/electronic album put her in the history books, after also winning best R&B song for ‘Cuff

It’, best dance/electronic recording and traditional R&B performance. Apart from Beyonce’s accomplishment, there were no sweeps that left

any other winners guaranteed to make all the headlines.

The top three all-genre categories went to three different winners -- none of them the ones that were being widely prognosticated.

Harry Styles picked up album of the year, Lizzo won record of the year and Bonnie Raitt got a truly unforeseen win for song of the year.

Besides album of the year, Styles won for pop vocal album; ‘Harry’s House’, which also won for best

engineered album, nonclassical, although that trophy does not go to Styles.

Other multiple winners included three trophies for Brandi Carlile and three for the music of ‘Encanto’. Raitt ended up with two, having won in an Americana category as well as best song. Other winners included Sam Smith and Kim Petras for pop duo/ group performance for the single ‘Unholy’ and Willie Nelson for best country album.

(IANS)

Music composer Ricky Kej, based out of Bengaluru, has won his third Grammy Award for the album ‘Divine Tides’ and dedicated the honour to his home country, India. The US-born musician shared the award with Stewart Copeland, the drummer of the iconic British rock band The Police, who collaborated with Kej on the album.

At the 65th Annual Grammy Awards, the duo earned the gramophone trophy in the best immersive audio album winner category. They had won a Grammy in the best new age album category for the same album last year.

“Congrats Best Im -

Aku Zeliang represents India at Ambiente Fair, Frankfurt

Aku Zeliang has represented India at the annual Ambiente Fair in Frankfurt under the section of “Young Talents”.

Ambiente is the leading international trade fair and the world’s number one in products associated with dining, cooking, household items, furnishings and ornaments, interior design, gifts, jewellery and fashion accessories. It is “The Show” for the entire industry.

Zeliang has also been

Akshay’s walk on India’s map raises hackles of Netizens

Ahead of his North America tour, Bollywood star Akshay Kumar is facing the heat over a promotional video in which he is shown walking over the map of India.

The actor had uploaded the now-controversial video on his social media handles on Sunday. Akshay’s post, however, did not cut ice with Netizens who promptly labelled it as disrespect to the India map.

The video also features actresses Disha Patani, Mouni Roy, Nora Fatehi, and Sonam Bajwa. Fortunately for them, they were not walking on the India map and so they escaped Akshay’s fate.

The video was made to promote the North America Tour of the stars in March this year. Sharing the video, Akshay had tweeted, “The entertainers are all set to bring 100 per cent shuddh desi entertainment to North America. Fasten your seat belts, we’re coming in March!”

The backlash to the video was quite savage as some Netizens raised questions about Akshay’s loyalties by pointing to his Canadian citizenship.

The actor has earlier stated that he has decided to relinquish his Canadian citizenship and applied for an Indian passport.

(IANS)

awarded “Young Talent” 2022 for Elle Deco International Design Awards (EDIDA) and runners up for “Furniture Designer of the Year”.

His interior/architecture design studio “Urra Design” works across 7 states in India and furniture line “Cane Concept” exports to 26 countries.

Urra Design & Cane Concept have both been recipients of other awards, collaborations with Bollywood celebrities, international galleries and ar-

Aku Zeliang

chitects and commissioned works. He is currently showcasing the Huh Tu (Tattoo) collection inspired by Eastern Nagaland which consists of textile, furniture and wall decor objects designed with skills and resources available in the region which are all in house handcrafted at his design centre in Dimapur.

The Huh Tu collection is being displayed at the India Design Fair hosted by Elle Decor in Delhi from January 23 to February 26.

As per the decision of the Party High Command of allotting NDPP ticket to Smt. Hekani Jakhalu, the following Office Bearers of NDPP 3 DMR-III A/C have decided to support the party's decision and remain loyal to it, and decided to work for its official candidate Smt. Hekani Jakhalu.

mersive Audio Album winner - ‘Divine Tides’ Eric Schilling, immersive mix engineer; @copelandmusic, @rickykej & Herbert Waltl, immersive producers (Stewart Copeland & Ricky Kej) #GRAMMYs,” announced the Recording Academy, the organisation behind Grammy Awards, on its official Twitter page on Sunday night. Kej took home his first Grammy in the best new age album category for ‘Winds of Samsara’ back in 2015.

As part of his work with The Police, Copeland has won five Grammys. With Kej as collaborator, this is his second award. (PTI)

Best solo country solo performance: “Live Forever,” Willie Nelson

Best country duo/group performance: “Never Wanted To Be That Girl,” Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde

Best country album: “‘Til You Can’t,” Cody Johnson

Best music video: “All Too Well: The Short Film,” Taylor Swift.

Producer of the year, non-classical: Jack Antonoff

Best comedy album: “The Closer,” Dave Chappelle

Best musical theatre album: “Into The Woods (2022 Broadway Cast Recording)”

Best music film: “Jazz Fest: A New Orleans Story”

Best song written for visual media: “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” from “Encanto,” Lin-Manuel Miranda

Best jazz vocal album: Samara Joy

Best Americana album: “In These Silent Days,” Brandi Carlile

Best Americana performance: “Made Up Mind,” Bonnie Raitt

Best American roots song: “Just Like That...,” Bonnie Raitt

Best dance/electronic recording: “Break My Soul,” Beyoncé

Best metal performance: “Degradation Rules,” Ozzy Osbourne featuring Tony Iommi

Best engineered, non-classical album: “Harry’s House,” Harry Styles

Best compilation soundtrack for visual media: “Encanto”

Best score soundtrack for visual media: “Encanto,” Germaine Franco.

Dedicate Mumbai coastal road to Lata: Mangeshkar family

On the first death anniversary of the legendary singer, Lata Mangeshkar’s family on Monday urged that the upcoming Mumbai Coastal Road Project should be named in her memory. The plea was gently voiced on behalf of the clan by veteran singer Usha Mangeshkar on the occasion of the foundation stone laying ceremony for Lata Didi’s memorial at Haji Ali Chowk. “We are very pleased that the memorial is coming up here... Its

quite close to our home, Prabhu Kunj. The Maharashtra government and the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation are working on it and it will be ready soon.

We want it (the road) to be named in memory of Lata Didi,” she said.

The proposed 40-feet tall memorial, to be named ‘Swarancha Kalpvriksha’ (Melodious Tree) will be constructed through Tourism Minister M.P. Lodha from his MLA funds with contribution from the BMC, and is expected to

OFFICE OF THE SUHOI VILLAGE STUDENTS' UNION FELICITATION

With immense pride and honour, we the Suhoi Village Students' Union, extend our heartiest congratulations to the following individuals:

1. Mr. Kabo G. Zhimomi on being elected as the President of Western Sümi Students' Union (WSSU).

2. Mr. P. Kiyekhu Yeputhomi on being selected/elected as the President of Western Sümi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (WSBAK) Council.

3. Rev. Dr. Toniho Kiho, Pastor Chekiye Village Baptist Church, on being conferred Doctor of Ministry by Hindustan Bible Institute & College, Chennai. The union expresses gratitude for bringing laurels and honour. May Almighty God continue to shower His blessings upon you all.

Akihika Neho Angukatoli V. Yepthomi President, SVSU General Secy., SVSU DB -166/23

be completed in the next six months. Immortalising Lata Didi, her voice and songs, her music will be played at the memorial venue on important days for the public.

Usha Mangeshkar added that this is the first time such a mega-project is taken up in Mumbai, coming up just beside the Mangeshkars’ ancestral home and hence the family is desirous that it should be named after Lata Didi. The foundation stone laying ceremony was

attended by Lodha, the entire Mangeshkar clan of Usha, Asha, Meena, Hridaynath, Adinath and others, Bollywood personalities like Shivaji Satam, Sudesh Bhosale, Nitin Mukesh and more.

The most prestigious project of the BMC, the Mumbai Coastal Road is coming up at a quick pace with the 10-km-long first phase in south Mumbai expected to be ready by December 2023. (IANS)

1 H. Khutovi Awomi Advisor A/C

2 Mughato Aye Secretary A/C

3 Rofik Khemprai Secretary A/C

4 Temsu Ao Secretary A/C

5 Mary Vice President Dimapur Region

6 Shetoli Chishi Secretary Women Org. A/C

7 Seyievinuo Joint Secretary Women A/C

8 Chekrosolü Secretary Women A/C

9 Shurhozelie Vice President Youth A/C

10 Ihoshe Swu Secretary Youth Org. A/C

11 Inahoto Murru Member, Doyapur Unit

12 Inakato Aye Member, Doyapur Unit

13 Vidhu Jigdong G.S Khushiabill Unit

14 Sohiruddin Ahmed Vice President Minority Org. A/C

15 Raju Pradhan President Minority Org. A/C

16 Yusuf Hussain Secretary Minority Org. A/C

H. Khutovi Awomi Advisor, NDPP 3 DMR-III A/C

IKISHE VILLAGE

The Ikishe Village Council and the Church convey hearty congratulations to Shri ISRAEL G. XUIVI, NPS, Deputy Commandant, Nagaland Police for having been awarded the Prestigious President Police Medal 2023. Your achievement has brought Pride to all fellow citizens of Ikishe Village.

The Council and the Church with sincere gratitude, further convey our best wishes and pray that you continue to excel more in your career.

May the Lord continue to guide you throughout your future endeavours.

(Chairman) (Chairman)

Ikishe Village Council Board of Deacons Ikishe Village Baptist Church

Mr. P. KIYEKHU YEPUTHO Mr. KABO G ZHIMOMI Suhoi Village Baptist Church extends our heartiest congratulations to Mr. P. KIYEKHU YEPUTHO for being chosen as the President of Western Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (WSBAK) Council and Mr. KABO G ZHIMOMI for being elected as the President of Western Sumi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu (WSKK). We sincerely pray that Almighty God continue to bless them with good health, wisdom and knowledge.

With immense pride and honour we wish them the best in their future endeavors.

Sd/- Sd/(NGUKATO CHISHI) (T. VIKATO YEPUTHO) Pastor Church Clerk Suhoi Village Baptist Church Suhoi Village Baptist Church

RHIEONUOMIAPFü KROTHO D.KHEL KOHIMA VILLAGE FELICITATION

DP-570/23

Smti Azenuo Pienyü Dr. Vibeituonuo M. Sachü Rhieonuomiapfü Krotho D.Khel Kohima Village with immense joy extends our hearty congratulations to the following members of its Krotho.

(1) Smti Azenuo Pienyü on being promoted to the post of Director (HoD), Rural Development, Govt. of Nagaland.

(2) Dr. Vibeituonuo M. Sachü on being promoted to post of Principal Director, Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of Nagaland.

Rhieonuomiapfü Krotho wishes them the very best of luck in their future endeavors.

Ngabou-ü Sachii Neibou-ü Kuotsu Secretary President

K

COUNCIL and IKISHE VILLAGE BAPTIST CHURCH FELICITATION DP-560/23

Ricky Kej (L) Herbert Waltl and Stewart Copeland with the award for best immersive audio album. (AP/PTI)

Frolic Cup: UFC, MVYO move to semis

Kabbadi player alleges sexual harassment by coach

DIMAPUR, FEB 6 (NPN):

United Falcon Club and Medziphema Village Youth Organisation (MVYO) won their respective matches in the quarter finals and joined Fury FC, and Amigos FC to the semi-finals at the ongoing 3rd Frolic Cup at Medziphema local ground on Monday.

United Falcon Club booked their berth in the semi-finals after defeating Ton FC Molvom 2-1. UFC took the lead in the 15 minute from a fine free kick from Viketouzo Vasa. The Ton FC came back with exact mirror free kick in the 28th minute from the boot of Jangtinlun. The second

half saw both teams fighting for the ultimate goal.

UFC broke the stalemate when Nourhielhoulie Vasa rattled net of the Ton FC with his right foot in the final minute of the match. Medziphema Village Youth Organisation who were yet to find its combination finally came together

in the quarter finals as they defeated the Winfield 4-0. The game saw a fight of midfield dominance and a fine test for both sides’ defence. The MVYO opened the scored with a diving header from Avika in the 13th minute followed by a shot for quick lead from the boot of Langphong in the 16 the minute. With the two-goal lead, the Winfield searched for a come-back but failed to open its account as the MVYO took over the ball possession in the second half. The match was sealed with a fine finished from Thejasetuo in the 55th minute followed by a power kick from a close range by Keneisede in the final minute. Winfield got their share of opportunities but failed to make any breakthrough. TUESDAY’S MATCHES

1st semi-final - AMIGOS FC vs FURY FC – 12 pm 2nd semi-final - United Falcon Club Vs MVYO – 2 pm

World Athletics approves applications of six Russians to compete as neutral athletes

PORT HERCULES (MONACO), FEB 6 (IANS):

The World Athletics’ Doping Review Board (DRB) approved the applications of six Russian athletes to compete in international competition as neutral athletes (ANA) while the Russian national federation (RusAF) will remain suspended, the athletics governing body said on Monday.

The RusAF has been suspended from World Athletics since 2015, due to doping violations, and therefore is not eligible to host World Athletics events or send teams to international championships.

Last year, the World Athletics Council imposed sanctions against the Member Federations of Russia and Belarus as a consequence of the invasion of Ukraine and said that Rus-

LeBron’s record chase the hottest ticket in Hollywood

LOS ANGELES, FEB 6 (AGENCIES): It’s Oscars season in Los Angeles but instead of the red carpet all eyes are on the NBA hardwood where Lakers forward LeBron James is on the cusp of becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer.

James needs 36 points to eclipse Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 38,387 points and will get his first chance to do so at home on Tuesday against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Tickets for that game start at $284, 50% higher than the team’s season average, according to ticket retailer StubHub.

Prices are higher still for Thursday’s home game against the Milwaukee Bucks, indicating the market believes that James, who is averaging 30 points per game in his 20th season, will need two games to reach the mark.

To rub shoulders with Hollywood’s brightest stars, courtside tickets for Tuesday’s contest could set you back as much as $48,403 and Thursday’s an eye-watering $68,995, according to retailer TickPick.

The sticker shock has led some Lakers fans scrambling to find ways to witness history at a discount.

Others said breaking the record will help James, who won championships in Miami and Cleveland before collecting his fourth title as a Laker in 2020, step out of the shadow of the late Kobe Bryant.

Shilji Shaji stars as India U-17 women thrash Jordan U-17 in friendly

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (IANS): A 27-year-old kabbadi player, who had alleged that she was sexually harassed and blackmailed by her coach, on Monday, recorded her statement in a Delhi court.

According to Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dwarka, M. Harsha Vardhan, the kabbadi player had given a complaint recently at Baba Haridas Nagar police station against her coach, stating she was preparing for a competition in Hirankudna near Mundka in 2012 and in March 2015, her coach had sexual relations with her without her consent. “She further stated in the complaint that in 2018, the coach even forced her to give him a part of the wining amount. She then transferred Rs 43.5 lakh into his bank account. “In 2021 she got married and the accused is blackmailing her, threatening to leak her private photos,” the DCP said

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (IANS): India U-17 women bagged a huge 7-0 win in a friendly match against Jordan U-17 at the Prince Mohammed Stadium in Zarqa, Jordan. Shilji Shaji netted four goals, while Manisha Kumari, Pooja and Sanjana Chanu scored one each to complete the rout.

Coached by former senior women’s team assistant coach Priya P.V, the Young Tigresses are currently preparing for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup, which is set to take place next year. This match was the first time that the newly-assembled squad played an international after they set camp in Chennai last month.

It took Shilji all of two minutes to open the scoring for India, before Manisha Kumari doubled the lead in the 13th minute, as she nodded a corner by captain

Heena Khatun.

Five minutes later, Pooja produced a glorious volley that went in at the far post, after the ball was crossed to her by Arya Anilkumar.

Pooja turned provider in the 37th minute when her shot from the right was saved by the opposition keeper. However, she got on the rebound and sent it in for Shilji to score her

second goal. Priya PV’s side added three more goals in the second half, with Kerala’s Shilji scoring two of those to take her tally from the game to four. Substitute midfielder Sanjana Chanu wrapped up the win in injury time, netting India’s seventh goal. India U-17 women will play Jordan U-17 in another friendly on Thursday.

Pissay wins National Rally title for 6th consecutive year

NASHIK, FEB 6 (IANS):

sian athletes, who have received ANA status for 2022, are excluded from World Athletics Series events for the foreseeable future.

“The DRB considered and approved the following applications under rule 3.2 of the eligibility rules for exceptional eligibility to compete in international com-

petitions until the World Athletics Council Meeting in March 2023 as a Neutral Athlete (ANA), to the extent such competitions are open to athletes from Russia,” World Athletics said in a statement.

“Any athlete who was granted ANA status for the 2022 season may continue

to compete until Council’s decision,” it added Eligibility rule 3.2 states that: “The Council (or its delegates) may exceptionally grant eligibility for some or all International Competitions, under conditions defined by the Council, to an athlete whose Member Federation is currently suspended by World Athletics, if (and only if) the athlete is able to demonstrate to the comfortable satisfaction of the Council.”

The six athletes who have now met the exceptional eligibility criteria are: Nikita Anishchenkov (high jump), Artem Chermoshanskiy (long jump), Maksim Pianzin (Pyanzin) (race walking), Nikita Kurbanov (high jump), Danil Chechela (long jump), Marina Kovaleva (long distance)

DAESHIN ACADEMY DIPHUPAR-B, CHUMOUKEDIMA

INVITATION

The Organizing Committee and Managing Board of Daeshin Academy cordially invite all the CBCC Church officials, former Board Members/Heads', Ex-Teachers'/ Staff, Alumni and Parents/Guardians of our students to the 25 th Anniversary Celebration of the school on 10th February, 2023 at 11:00 am.

Venue : Daeshin Academy, Dimapur 'B', Chümoukedima

Convenor Chairman Organizing Committee Managing Board

Aishwarya Pissay, the 27-year-old queen of Indian motorsports and Petronas TVS Racing team factory rider, clinched her sixth consecutive National rally title in the Ladies’ class as the six-round of FMSCI Indian National Racing Championship 2022 (INRC-2w).

Going into the Rally of Nashik, the sixth and final round with a comfortable lead, the Bengaluru rider saw her closest competitor, Fazeela, from Kerala skipping the final round. And with the National Rally Championship title virtually assured, she took it easy and salvaged a second place, which was enough to defend her title.

“My race bike TVS TR 200R, which is based on the TVS Apache RTR 200 is supremely capable

and delivered a superb performance. Throughout the season, in the tough and technical terrain, I was able to take control of the situation and push it to my liking. It gives me immense joy and happiness to win six consecutive National Rally titles. I thank my mechanics, family, sponsors, and all those who supported me. My special

OFFICE OF THE MIXEPU NULIMI KUQHAKULU GHOKIMI

P.O TSEMINYU, BPO ASUKIQA District : Zunheboto FELICITATION

With immense pride and honor we the Mixepu Nulimi Kuqhakulu Ghokimi would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to Shri. X. Lukiye Swu, S/o. Xutovi K. Swu for being appointed as Gaon Bura (GB), Niu-Colony, Burma Camp Dimapur. The Union further extends its best wishes in all his future endeavors.

(TOHOVI SWU) (YEGHOTO SWU) Secretary Chairman

d P -574/23

thanks to Petronas TVS Racing, who stood by me through thick and thin,” said Aishwarya Pissay.

Entering the final round with a 12-point lead, the TVS racer avoided any risk as she navigated the technical course with deft control on her TVS TR 200R, a lean machine that rounded off her 2022 campaign. She maintained a steady pace and cleverly played it easy to clock 40min, 21.597sec timing for the two special stages. The third stage was cancelled. She won all five rounds she took part in, and kept the slate clean, to extend her winning streak that began in 2017. Apart from winning the six FMSCI National Rally Championships, she also claimed the 2W National Racing title in the Ladies’ class in

2017, before moving on to higher cross-country Rally Raid events. She started in 2016 with Circuit Racing winning Honda One-Make and TVS One-Make titles. She also excelled in tougher cross-country events in India like the Himalayan Rally, the Dakshin Dare and Desert Storm paved her way to Rally Raid events abroad. In 2017, she came under the wings of TVS Racing and made her international debut in the tough Baja Aragon rally in 2018, where she overcame a life-threatening accident and rose like a phoenix to continue her dream run in the World Cup, the next year. Apart from the seven National titles, she reached the apex winning the FIM Baja World Cup in the women’s section for the ultimate prize in 2019.

Ref. No. KSON/Gen-64/22 Date: 02/02/2

CONGRATULATORY NOTE

The Kuki Students' Organisation Nagaland heartily congratulates Shri. Alun Hangsing (Retd. NCS) on his recent appointment as the Chairperson of the Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR)

Meanwhile, we also express our sincere gratitude to the Government of Nagaland for appointing Shri. Alun Hangsing to this prestigious post.

(THANGJAMANG) (KAMMINLEN)

President, KSON Secretary, Media Cell, KSON

Phiban of Winfield (Red) fights for the ball against Vikholie of MVYO (White).

India U-17 women team squad.

Aishwarya Pissay (PTI)

Odisha FC hold FC Goa to 1-1 draw in ISL

BHUBANESWAR, FEB

6 (IANS): Despite being a man down for the final quarter of the game, Odisha FC held on to a 1-1 draw against FC Goa in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) at the Kalinga Stadium here on Monday.

FC Goa had taken an early lead but the home side levelled scores soon after and the teams remained locked at 1-1 as they failed to find the goal after that.

First-half goals from Noah Sadaoui and Diego Mauricio had cancelled out each team’s advantage and set up a big second half for the two playoff contenders who will, nonetheless, likely be happy with a result that didn’t damage either of their prospects.

FC Goa got off to the perfect start when Sadaoui put them ahead in the second minute. Alvaro Vazquez picked up the ball in midfield as Odisha FC were looking to push forward, and found Sadaoui with a through ball on the left side of the box.

Odisha FC’s defence was spread out and tracking back as the forward found time to compose himself and drive the ball past Amrinder’s left hand.

Odisha FC did manage to create good chances from there on, often from the left with Isak Ralte being their outlet. FC Goa defended narrowly and in numbers for the majority of the half, offering very little for the hosts to breach, until Ralte was fouled a few yards outside the box towards the end of the half. Mauricio stepped up to take the resulting free-kick and powered a curler that was too much

for Dheeraj Singh leaping to his right.

FC Goa nearly went back into the lead before the end of the half, with Sadaoui and Vazquez switching roles on this occasion.

Sadaoui’s cross from the left flank found the striker who had beaten his marker but got his glancing header just wide.

The two combined yet again in what was an electric period of end-to-end

EPL: Harry Kane’s 267th goal helps Spurs prevail over Manchester City 1-0

LONDON, FEB 6 (IANS):

Harry Kane struck a record-breaking 267th goal for Tottenham Hotspur, giving them a deserved victory over Manchester City team in the Premier League on Sunday, despite being reduced to 10 men in the dying minutes of the match.

Harry Kane scored the only goal of the game in the first half when Tottenham pounced on a mixup at the back to finish past Ederson. Kane scored in the 15th minute and set a record for the Spurs.

Kane also becomes the third player, after Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney, to score 200 Premier League goals. The strike in the 15th minute was the best moment for Tottenham in a match in which City dominated and enjoyed 64% per cent possession.

In comparison, the Spurs had nine shots offtarget and three on-target. They were pulled up for 18 fouls as compared to 14

transgressions committed by Man City.

Despite dominating possession, City by their own stratospheric standards were in a minor shambles as they slumped to their fourth defeat of the season in top flight English football league in 21 matches. They now have 45 points as they trail leaders ARsenal by five points. The Gunners have 50 points from 20 games.

The Spurs, who had

34 per cent possession, have 39 points from 22 matches. Manchester City had 10 shots off-target and five of them on target On the field, Riyad Mahrez came closest to an equaliser just before half-time with a volley that smacked off the woodwork.

Spurs were reduced to 10 men in the dying minutes when Cristian Romero was sent off but the home side survived.

football early in the second half. Sadaoui played Vazquez through, who found the back of the net before he saw the flag raised for offside. In the next minute, Nandhakumar Sekar put in a perfectly weighted cross that found Saul Crespo’s powerful header, only for Dheeraj to pounce to his right and save. From there, FC Goa managed to get the ball out to Sadaoui whose

long shot was straight at the keeper. This pace of the game temporarily came to a stop as Odisha FC were forced to slow things down in the 67th minute when left-back Sahil Panwar picked up a second yellow for a challenge from behind. With no major attacking push coming from FC Goa, the home side made a spate of positive-minded substitutions in the 81st minute, shortly after Amrinder had made a crucial save as Hernan Santana’s shot came through a crowded penalty box. While these substitutions didn’t translate into chances for Odisha FC, they also didn’t face any substantial threats to their goal until the end of the game, barring a free-kick from Brandon Fernandes that went over and a deflected long-range shot from Santana that Amrinder kept his eyes on.

The result put Odisha FC level on matches with Bengaluru FC, but a point behind sixth place, while FC Goa remain in fourth. Odisha FC stay at home to face Hyderabad FC on Friday, while FC Goa head back home to face Mumbai City FC on Saturday.

Davis Cup: Croatia cruise into Finals Group stage despite doubles slip

RIJEKA (CROATIA),

FEB 6 (IANS): Borna Coric fired Croatia through to the Davis Cup Finals for a fourth time after ending Austria’s hopes of a final day fightback in their 2023 Qualifier.

Coric saw off Dominic Thiem 7-6(3) 6-2 in an hour and 45 minutes to prevent Jurgen Melzer’s visiting side from gaining any further momentum after Austrian doubles pair Lucas Miedler & Alexander Erler had recorded a surprise triumph over the home side in the doubles.

Austria’s doubles pair upset Nikola Mektic and Ivan Dodig 6-3 7-6 (11) in one hour and 50 minutes to deny a Croatian clean sweep after the two Bornas - Borna Coric and Borna Gojo - had won their singles on the opening day. That left Thiem with an opportunity to take the contest to a deciding fifth, but the 2020 US Open champion, still on the comeback trail from a wrist injury, struggled for consistency against Coric.

“I enjoyed the fight, it was great,” Coric was quoted by ATP Tour website. “It

Team Croatia celebrate after qualifying for finals Group stage

was great to play in front of the home crowd. I was very happy with the way I was playing on the important points. I was very aggressive so I’m super happy with the win.”

In the other qualifiers, Korea Republic recovered from 0-2 down for the first time to claim a remarkable 3-2 victory over Belgium, while Finland sealed their first-ever berth in the Finals Group Stage with a 3-1 win over Argentina. Elsewhere, Netherlands cruised past Slovakia 4-0, and there were 3-1 victories for Chile and Czech Republic over Kazakhstan

and Portugal respectively. The six victorious teams follow Great Britain, Serbia, Switzerland, Sweden, USA and France in progressing from this weekend’s Qualifiers. The 12 winning nations in the Qualifiers joined 2022 champions Canada, 2022 runners-up Australia and wild cards Italy and Spain at the 2023 Finals.

The Group Stage will be played across four venues from September 12 to17, with the eight best-performing teams advancing to the Final 8 in Malaga, Spain from November 21 to 26.

PVL 2: Hyderabad Black Hawks stun Ahmedabad Defenders

BENGALURU, FEB 6

(IANS): Hyderabad Black Hawks registered an emphatic win in their first encounter of the second season of RuPay Prime Volleyball League at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium here on Monday, stunning last season’s runner-up Ahmedabad Defenders in a hard-fought match.

Despite featuring a relatively inexperienced squad, Hyderabad Black Hawks stunned the Season one runner-up from Ahmedabad 13-15, 15-9, 15-14, 15-11,10-15 victory to get two points from the contest. Guru Prashanth was named the Player of the Match.

The young Hyderabad Black Hawks side earned the first point in the game with a faulty serve from Nandagopal Subramaniyam. But Ahmedabad quickly equalised with a spike from LM Manoj. Hyderabad Skipper S.V. Guru Prashanth showcased his prowess on the right side as he put on a perfect block to take his side ahead. A spike

from Hemanth gave the Black Hawks a 7-4 lead, but Ahmedabad reduced the gap with a sweet serve from Danial Moatazedi. As Nandagopal delivered a super ace, Defenders took lead in the match. Just when it looked like the set might slip away from Hyderabad, Guru, with a beautiful spike brought his side back to level pegging. But an erroneous spike from Guru gave Defenders a 15-13 win in the first set.

Ashamatullah’s picture-perfect block gave Hyderabad the first point in the second set. But Danial, with a powerful spike,

Manipur to host first international football in March

IMPHAL, FEB 6 (PTI):

The tiny but football powerhouse state of Manipur will host its first official international matches next month in a tri-nation friendly tournament involving Myanmar and Kyrgyzstan, besides the Indian team, at the Khuman Lampak Stadium here.

The matches will be played on March 22, 24 and 26, which fall during the FIFA international window.

Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh announced that the state capital will host the international tournament at a press conference here in the presence of All India Football Federation President Kalyan Chaubey and Secretary General Shaji Prabhakaran.

“It is a great initiative by the AIFF leadership that we are getting to host international friendly matches in Manipur for the first time in history,” Biren said.

“From our end, I can assure everyone that the Government of Manipur will do everything to provide the best facilities and facilitate in the successful organisation of the tourna-

ment. “Manipur has provided many international players for the national team. It is indeed an honour to host the tournament and further encourage our players and sports enthusiasts.”

Biren mentioned the names of the likes of Renedy Singh, Gouramangi Singh, Udanta Singh, Amarjit Kiyam, Suresh Wangjam and Jeakson Singh who have donned the country’s jersey in international matches.

“Manipur has been a great contributor to women’s football as well. Players like Bala Devi, who is one of the best strikers of this generation, captain Ashalata Devi, Dangmei Grace, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu and many more have made the country proud time and again well.”

He also requested the AIFF’s assistance in establishing a top-class academy in the state.

The 35,000 capacity Khuman Lampak Stadium

where the matches will be held has been hosting I-League games. It hosted group stage matches of the prestigious Durand Cup in August last year.

“We all are aware of football’s popularity in Manipur. The state has produced a huge number of footballers, both men and women, but never before has a national team’s match been organised in the state,” Chaubey said.

“Having launched Vision 2047 recently, our aim is to take quality football

to the furthest corners of the country. Manipur’s vibrant football culture makes them deserving hosts, and so they have been given charge of hosting the Senior National Team’s matches.”

The tri-nation friendly tournament is part of a series of matches that India will play in the FIFA international window to prepare for next year’s Asian Cup. “It will be great to play a few friendly matches at home again. We now have enough time to check our opponents’ form and formulate our plans accordingly,” head coach Igor Stimac said.

“These games should serve us well as we prepare for the Asian Cup. Hopefully we can start the year with a few good results.

I hope all our boys will maintain good form and stay injury free in the next few weeks until we get together.”

The Blue Tigers last played on home soil in June 2022, when they topped their group to secure qualification for the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, defeating the likes of Cambodia, Afghanistan and Hong Kong.

equalised straight away. Andrew Kohut with a delectable left-handed shot brought the scoreline to 3-3, but Guru, with another spike, put Hyderabad ahead once again. A block from Lal Sujan M.V. gave Black Hawks the lead at the set break, putting the Defenders on the backfoot. Trent got too much on a spike and the ball ricocheted outside, giving Ahmedabad an easy point. With a super point on offer, Sujan’s spike won Hyderabad two points after which super-sub Azmath delivered a super serve to win the second set 15-9 for the Black Hawks.

WPL to be held in Mumbai from March 4-26

NEW DELHI, FEB 6 (PTI): The much-awaited inaugural season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) will be played from March 4 to 26 in Mumbai. The Brabourne Stadium and the DY Patil Stadium will host all the matches with the tournament opener expected to be played between Gujarat Giants and Mumbai Indians-owned franchise. “The Women’s Premier League will be played from March 4 to 26 in Mumbai,” IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told PTI on Monday. Dhumal also confirmed that the auction will take place on February 13 in Mumbai, a day after India’s T20 World Cup match against Pakistan. With the five teams fetching Rs 4669.99 crore and the BCCI selling the media rights for Rs 951 crore, the WPL is the second biggest T20 League in the world behind the Indian Premier League. Apart from three IPL team owners -MI, RCB and DC-- Capri Global Holdings (Lucknow) and the Adani Sportsline have bought the five franchises.

Santhosh earned the first point in the third set with a spike as Ahmedabad Defenders took an early lead. But Hyderabad kept up the pressure as John Joseph EJ showcased his attacking powers. A sensational rally ended as Danial committed an error and Hyderabad earned a crucial point.

Carlos Zamora, with a tap over the net, brought Black Hawks back to level pegging. With a spike, Santhosh gave Ahmedabad a 10-9 lead. But a tap shot from Guru equalised the score once again. Winning the super point, Ahmedabad took advantage in the set. But with a punching shot over the net, Guru once again levelled the scoreline. Danial’s faulty serve ended the set in anticlimactic fashion and Hyderabad won the set 15-14 to take lead in the match.

Needing to win the set, Angamuthu came on for Ahmedabad Defenders and he hit a perfect spike to give an early lead to his side. But John Joseph, with a tap over the net, equalised the scoreline for Hyder -

abad. Danial’s block went outside and Hyderabad Black Hawks took lead in the set. Trent’s block further extended Black Hawks’ lead as pressure built up on the Defenders. A wayward serve from Parth Patel saw Hyderabad extending their lead to 8-6. With a spike and two backto-back aces, Ashamatullah gave Hyderabad three crucial points. Ahmedabad won the super point as Danial hit the empty back line to close the gap on his side. But with a block, Saurabh Maan won his team the match point and Hyderabad Black Hawks won the set 15-11.

High on confidence after winning the match, Hyderabad Black Hawks shower they will not take it easy as John Joseph put on a block to level the scoreline to 3-3. As Angamuthu’s spike went wide, the Black Hawks extended their lead. But with a couple of powerful hits, Angamuthu put his side ahead in the set. Two consecutive errors from Defenders once again allowed Hyderabad to equalise.

Iker Guarrotxena Vallejo of FC Goa and Diego Mauricio Machado De Brito of Odisha FC during ISL played between Odisha FC and FC Goa, Bhubaneswar, Monday. (PTI)

Volleyball match in action during the PVL season 2.

Tottenham’s Harry Kane celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the EPL match, Sunday. (AP/PTI)

Manipur CM N Biren Singh (C) with AIFF officials during the press conference.