1 March 2023

Post-poll violence continues across Nagaland

4 INJURED, MOBILE INTERNET SUSPENDED IN KIPHIRE DIST CURFEW IMPOSED IN LONGLENG TOWN

Correspondent/Staff Reporter

KIPHIRE/DIMAPUR, FEB 28 (NPN): After polling concluded on February 27, sporadic incidents of violence were reported from across Nagaland on Tuesday. Reacting to the postpoll violence, the state government suspended mobile internet services in Kiphire district, while the district administration at Longleng imposed curfew in Longleng town apprehending breakdown of law and order.

At least three youths and one IRBn jawan were injured when supporters of a candidate demanding re-poll in some polling stations in Kiphire district confronted the IRB personnel near DC office at Kiphire town. The supporters also threw stones at the DC office. According to Kiphire Police, three to four houses were also dam-

NDPP grateful to electorates

DIMAPUR, FEB 28

(NPN): Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) has expressed sincere gratitude and appreciation to all the electorates of Nagaland for coming forward and exercising their universal adult franchise to vote for their respective candidates in the recently concluded State Assembly elections 2023.

In a communique, NDPP media & communication committee said that the State witnessed a record voter turnout of 84.69%, which demonstrates the peoples belief in democracy and the democratic process of choosing their leaders.

Kohima traffic advisory for Mar 2

DIMAPUR, FEB 28

(NPN): In view of the counting of votes scheduled on March 2, Kohima police has issued traffic advisory and earmarked certain locations as no entry and no parking zones.

In a press note, PRO Kohima police informed that Phoolbari “Y” Junction to DC office and 1st Assam Rifles (AR) Junction” have been declared as no entry and no parking zones.

Any obstructing vehicles found in mentioned stretch would be towed as per the provisions of Sections 201 Motor Vehicle Act, and charges to be borne by the vehicle owners. Kohima Police has appealed and sought the cooperation of all for a smooth counting day.

Cong petitions Election Commission for action on poll violence and repoll

DIMAPUR, FEB 28

age by the youths. However, timely intervention of the police prevented the situation from spiralling out of control. The situation in the town remained tense till evening.

Internet suspended: In Kiphire, apprehending grave law and order problems and post poll violence in the district and fearing use of messaging services like SMS, WhatsApp and other social media platforms in spreading rumours, false information, circulating inflammatory texts, pictures, videos, etc, the Home department suspended mobile internet service over the entire district with immediate effect till further orders.

In an order, home commissioner Abhijit Sinha also cautioned that any violation of the order would be punishable under Section 188 CrPC, and also under

GUWAHATI, FEB 28

(PTI): Asserting there will not be hung assembly in either Tripura, Nagaland or Meghalaya, as predicted in some exit polls, Assam chief minister Himanta

Biswa Sarma Tuesday said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will form governments with absolute majority in all the three North Eastern states.

Sarma, the NEDA convenor, said no NDA (National Democratic Alliance) partner will go into any alliance with either Congress or the Trinamool Congress after the results are declared

the relevant sections of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.

Curfew in Longleng town: On the other hand, following reports that there was a likelihood of breach of peace, disturbance to public tranquillity and grave danger to human lives and properties due to unlawful activities by some organisations, DC Longleng Dharam

Raj has ordered imposition of curfew in Longleng town, prohibiting any movement of persons outside their respective residence, with effect from 12 noon of February 28 till 7 p.m. of March 1. DC however stated that the curfew would not apply to government agencies involved in enforcement of law and order and other essential services. In case of any emergency and for persons wanting to take part in funerals, etc, application could be made to the DC or

superintendent of police for permission. Their movement would however be restricted until a written permission was obtained by them. According to reports, supporters of two rival candidates were involved in stone pelting, during which some houses and vehicles were

also damaged. There were also reports of blank firing. In a late night report, clash between supporters of a candidate and security forces was reported in Noklak. Security forces resorted to blank firing and fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd.

Repolling in 4 polling stations today

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday ordered repolling at four polling stations in four districts-Zunheboto, Wokha, Mon and Noklak districts on March 1. The repoll will be held from 7 a.m. to 4 pm.

In a letter to Chief Electoral Officer Nagaland, ECI under secretary S Singh said that the repoll was ordered on the basis of reports submitted by general observers and after taking all material circumstances into account.

(NPN): Congress has urged upon the Election Commission of India to initiate action against those involved in the brutal attack on Congress candidate Toshipokba under 26-Aonglenden assembly constituency and holding of re-poll at polling station no. 2. This was contained in a memorandum addressed to chief election commissioner (CEC) by All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge for Nagaland Dr Ajoy Kumar. In the memorandum, Dr Kumar alleged that a mob of nearly 50 men broke into the house of Toshipokba on February 27 night to attack and grievously injure him and his family members. Dr.Ajoy said the unidentified attackers inflicted serious injury on Toshipokba’s family members including his sister and also vandalised his residence and vehicles.

Dr. Kumar also attached copies of the pictures taken after the attack on the residence and family of the

Congress candidate. He alleged that the dastardly attack on Toshipokba was in retaliation to Congress’ previous memorandum (no. 0001A/Nagaland/INC dt. 27.02.2023) and as a clear attempt to circumvent the democratic principle of free and fair elections by threatening the person to withdraw his candidature from the election. He stated that Toshipokba had filed a complaint with Mokokchung Police Station office in-charge in this regard and a copy was also

attached with the memorandum to the CEC.

Further, the AICC leader alleged irregular voting (proxy voting) in 26-Aolengden A/C on the polling day, as reported by news agencies.

He also referred to news articles, with copies attached, which reported first hand testimonies of several individuals who had admitted to proxy voting but who were unaware that this was a punishable offence under Indian Penal Code, 1860.

on Thursday.

“There will be no hung assembly. The NDA will form governments in all the three states,” he said at a press conference here. Several exit polls have

predicted hung assemblies in Tripura and Meghalaya although the NDA will be the largest block. Only in Nagaland, psephology surveys have predicted the return of the NDA to power with an absolute majority. When asked about candidates for the chief minister’s post in the three states, Sarma said there will be a status quo in Tripura and Nagaland. “Tripura will have a BJP CM, while we are in a coalition government in Nagaland,” said the convenor of the North East Democratic Alliance

Counting of votes on March 2

DIMAPUR, FEB 28 (NPN): In connection of the 14th Nagaland legislative Assembly, General Election 202, the Chief electoral Officer (CEO) Nagaland has informed that the counting on votes on March 2 will be held in all the 16 districts from 8 a.m. onwards.

According to CEO media cell, the counting centers in the districts are-- Peren and Pughoboto in ADC office, Zunheboto in Town hall/ Badminton Hall, Wokha in Tiyi Hall, Tuensang in CKS /SIRD Hall while in the rest of the 11 districts, counting will be held in their respective Deputy Commissioner’s office.

On the day of counting, strong room will be opened and polled EVMs will be brought to the counting room in the presence of candidates, RO and Observer under videography and CCTV coverage under security.

Media persons with authority letter issued from the Election Com-

mission of India may be allowed access into the counting centers (for entry/re-entry into counting centres). Terms and conditions for the use of authority letter must be adhered to by any assigned officials including media persons during counting of votes.

It was informed that in addition to the already deployed General Observers, the Commission will be deploying officers as Counting Observers to oversee the counting center arrangement as well as to monitor all activities relating to the counting of votes. Besides, the CEO office has also made arrangements to deploy counting personnel including supervisors, assistants, micro observers and tabulators.

The votes will be counted in different allotted numbers of tables according to assembly constituency wise in segments. The counting venue will be held in different locations with tight security, the media cell stated.

(NEDA), the regional wing of NDA.

In Meghalaya, the chief minister will be decided after considering the number of states won by the BJP, he added.

“However, there will be no alliance with the TMC and Congress in any state,” Sarma asserted.

Currently, Tripura has a BJP chief minister, while the governments in Nagaland and Meghalaya are led by the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the National People’s Party (NPP) respectively.

HSLC & HSSLC exam schedule announced

DIMAPUR, FEB 28 (NPN): Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) has announced the schedule for the HSLC and HSSLC examination 2023. HSLC exam will commence from March 10 till March 22 while HSSLC exam will be held from March 9 till March 31. According to NBSE, 24361 candidates will be appearing the HSLC exam from 96 provisional examination centres. Out of 24360 candidates, 11197 are boys and 13164 are girls. The timing of HSLC exam will be from 9 a.m. to 12 noon for 80/70 marks and 2 hours for 50 marks.

For HSSLC, a total of 16084 candidates have been enrolled to appear for the exam (Arts-12431, Commerce-1214 and Science- 2439) from 65 provisional examination centres. Out of 16085 candidates, 7612 are boys and 8473 are girls. Meanwhile, Class XI promotion exam will be held simultaneously with HSSLC in the afternoon from March 9 to March 31 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

CM visits Mao market fire incident site; provides relief

financial assistance to the affected families. The chief minister was accompanied by DC Kohima Shanavas C, SP Kohima Imnalensa, Kohima Village T Khel council members, and other government officials.

State Govt constitutes assessment committee

Correspondent Adds:

SIT to probe Feb 27 kidnapping case in Wka

Correspondent

KOHIMA, FEB 28 (NPN):

A five-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Wokha sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) has been constituted to probe the February 27 kidnapping case.

Police sources confirmed to Nagaland Post that a case had been registered and that investigation was underway.

According to the FIR lodged by Subenthung Kithan, two persons from Longsa village, reportedly supporters of BJP, were allegedly kidnapped by supporters of a rival candidate at Blue Hill junction around 6 a.m. on February 27 and taken away to an unknown location.

Kithan said the duo were heading to their respective polling stations to cast their votes when the incident

took place. Official sources informed this correspondent that the two persons who were found later in the evening had severe injury marks on their bodies. It was informed that one of the two men escaped from the clutches of the kidnappers with injuries, while the other was brutally assaulted and was shifted to Dimapur where he was being treated in ICU.

report, Rio met the affected families, whose shops and residences were burnt down in the massive

relief: The chief minister also provided Rs. 20 lakhs from Chief Minister Relief Fund as

Following the massive inferno that totally razed Mao Market, NN Market here on Monday night, the State government has constituted an assessment committee to oversee the distribution of relief materials to fire victims and their rehabilitation.

KOHIMA, FEB 28 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio visited the site

No hung assembly, NDA to form govt in all 3 NE states: Sarma

(L-R) Vehicle and properties belonging to Congress candidate damaged. (AICC)

Rio during his visit to the incident site along with senior officials on Tuesday. (DIPR)

Himanta Biswa Sarma (PTI)

AR conducts various activities

Mao market

fire: T Khel lauds humanitarian service

KOHIMA: T Khel council has lauded various groups and organisations such as fire and emergency services, district administration, 1st Assam Rifles, NSDMA, power department, AYO, KVYO with QRT, PYO, TYO, TSU, churches, public and individual for rendering humanitarian services to stop the devastating fire in the Mao market which broke out on February 27 and razed down a number of properties, while partially damaging Bethel hospital.

NBSE informs on conduct of board exams 2023

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) on February 21 held an online meeting with all the Centre superintendents during which the members, besides discussing about the duties and responsibilities, were briefed about the conduct the examination with fairness following the instructions given by the Board. (“Rules for conduct of HSLC & HSSLC Examinations” available in the Board’s website www.nbsenl.edu.in.)

bus card Items barred: Any stationery item– such as textual material (printed or written), bits of papers, Calculator, Pen Drives, Electronics Pen/Scanner, etc. any communication device– such as mobile phone, bluetooth, earphones, microphone, pager, health band, camera, etc. Items like wallet, goggles, handbags, pouches, etc., any eatable item opened or packed, except for diabetic candidates and any other item which could be used for unfair means.

DIMAPUR: Various activities were conducted by Assam Rifles in the month of February, under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North).

Kohima battalion: Kohima Battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) organised a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony at Kohima on February 28 to remember and honour its braveheart

‘Late Rifleman Surendra Lal Arya’. Rifleman Surendra Lal Arya was critically

injured on November 22, 1995 in fight with the insurgents at Kalain Chara area in Cachar district of Assam and later took his last breath on 28 Feb 1996 while under treatment for the injuries.

Kamala Devi wife of Braveheart connected with Battalion virtually from Haldwani, Uttrakhand to witness the wreath laying ceremony being organised at Kohima in remembrance of her late Husband. Later, the Unit Commandant in-

teracted with the Kamala Devi and paid his Respect &Naman on behalf of the Battalion.

Dimapur battalion: Dimapur Battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of IGAR (North) distributed Ration and Food items to the residents at Master Colony, Dimapur on February 25.

The relief materials were distributed to the people who were affected by fire incident on the night of

NDPP expresses gratitude to electorates

DIMAPUR: Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) has expressed sincere gratitude and appreciation to all the electorates of Nagaland for coming forward and exercising their universal adult franchise to vote for their respective candidates.

In a communique, NDPP media & communication committee said that the State witnessed a record voter turnout of 84.69%, which demonstrates the peoples belief in democracy and the democratic process of choosing their leaders.

While congratulating all first-time voters, who had come forward to exercise their rights, NDPP also expressed gratitude to all political parties for participating in the elections by setting up their respective candidates and ensuring that the banner

of democracy was lifted high.

“This election was perhaps the first time that Nagaland saw a record of 13 political parties including independents participating. This speaks volumes of how the State has matured politically over the last 59 years since the first general elections of 1964,” NDPP stated.

Further, NDPP congratulated the Election Commission of India, the entire State machinery headed by the chief secretary and DGP Nagaland for the successful conduct of the general elections of 2023.

NDPP commended the exemplary sacrifices of the administration, police force, election officials and members of the central paramilitary and other state police forces in ensuring the smooth conduct of

Post-poll scrutiny conducted for Wokha

DIMAPUR: Post-poll scrutiny of Form 17 A and other documents for all the four Assembly Constituencies under Wokha district was conducted on February 28, in the presence of General Observer 37th Tyui A/C and 38th Wokha A/C Abhishek Krishnan (IAS) and General Observer for 39th Sanis and 40th Bhandari A/C Jyoti Kumar Lakra (IAS) and various political parties.

According to a DIPR report, the objective for conducting post-poll scrutiny is to verify Form 17A and other documents, whether the poll was conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner and as per the guideline of the Election Commission of India (ECI).

KPC convenes general meeting

KOHIMA: Kohima Press Club (KPC) has convened a special general meeting of the press club at LCS Conference Hall, on March 1, 11 am. All the members of the Press Club have been requested to attend the meeting on priority.

Acknowledgement

With profound grief we inform of the peaceful demise of our beloved Late Imliwati Longeshir on 26.02.2023. His family wish to thank Doctors and team of Zion Hospital, Dimapur, Dimapur Japu Fellowship, Dimapur Japu Senso, East Dimapur Ao Baptist Church, Ao Senso Telongjem, Padumpukhuri, Nagamese Christian Church, Naharbari, Dimapur Japu Tetsur Telongjem, Friends and well Wishers. We deeply regret our inability to thank each and every one personally but your expressions of sympathy shall never be forgotten. May God bless you all abundantly.

Always Loving Father, Mother, Brother, Sister and Close Ones.

February 23 which engulfed nearly 30 houses depriving 70 families of their livelihood.

Assam Rifles distributed essentials items like rice, wheat and sugar to the residents to mitigate the hardship of the people. The Secretary of Village Council thanked the Assam Rifles for its help and support. GB of the village expressed his gratitude towards the Battalion for the continuous support extended to the people.

the entire election process.

The party said that it was because of all their concerted efforts that the general elections of 2023 could be conducted in a free and fair manner.

Apart from a few stray incidents, NDPP maintained that 2023 election was one of the most peaceful ones in recent history of Nagaland, for which the party thanked each and every member of the State.

It further appreciated and noted the contributions of the Churches, tribal hohos, civil society organizations and NGOs in ensuring “Clean Election”.

“We thank each and every individuals as well as organizations who have been praying incessantly for the successful and peaceful conduct of the elections,” NDPP stated.

PHSS observes ‘National Science Day 2023’

DIMAP UR: Pilgrim Higher Secondary School (PHSS) observed “National Science Day” on February 28, to mark the discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928 by Indian Physicist C.V Raman.

In a press statement, PHS principal informed that a street play, video-presentation on the formation of the Earth and Moon marked the event. Later on, an exhibition of Science laboratory tools was inaugurated in the Science laboratory by the Principal, Kaini Khekho Kikon in the presence of classes 1 to 3.

The theme of National Science Day 2023, “Global Science for Global Wellbeing” was extensively discussed.This event was organized by Science department.

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY of our Beloved

In a press statement, T Khel chairman K. Neibou Sekhose and genral secretary, Thepfuzakie Suohu have also thanked the prayer groups, both individual and churches for their unwavering support through prayers at the time of the havoc.

T Khel council has expressed their appreciation towards chief minister, Neiphuo Rio for personally vesting the incident areas to take stock of the loss and immediate remedial measures and also for the financial support with commitment to supports all possible help.

NBSE further informed that candidates are required to bring their original admit cards to the examination hall/room on all the days of the examination. Candidates are also requested to read the question paper carefully before they start to write the answers. Answers to the questions should be written keeping in mind the marks allotted to it.

Candidates are to note the following permitted items and barred items:

Permitted items: admit card, school identity card, stationery item i.e. transparent pouch, geometry/pencil box, blue/royal blue ball point/gel pen, scale, writing board, eraser, analogue watch and transparent water bottles,

The Board re-iterated that candidates must shade/darken the roll number on the front page of the OMR of the answer book correctly/properly. Candidates have also been reminded to maintain discipline and refrain from any kind of mal-practices during examinations. The Board cautioned that anyone resorting to unfair means in the examinations would be dealt as per the rules of the Board.

Further, candidates have been advised to reach the exam centre in time by moving out from home early.

Meanwhile, the Board extended best wishes to all the candidates appearing for the examinations.

DC & DEO Kohima informs on counting of votes

KOHIMA: Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer Kohima

Shanavas C has informed that the counting of votes for Kohima District will be taken up on 2nd March 2023 at DC Office Complex, Kohima at the following venues; 8 Western Angami A/C at DB’s Court with 6 nos. of tables, 9 Kohima Town A/C at DPDB Hall with 8 nos of tables, 10 Northern Angami-1 A/C at DRDA Conference Hall 7 with 5

tables, 11 Northern Angami-II A/C at Pensioner’s Building 1st Floor with 6 tables, 14 Southern Angami-I A/C at DC’s Conference Hall with 5 tables and 15 Southern Angami-II A/C at DC’s Conference Hall with 5 tables.

According to a DIPR report, all the candidates of Kohima District have been informed that, under law, counting agents are to be appointed in Form 18, one for each counting table plus one for the Re-

turning Officer Table with the concerned Returning Officers.

Further, it was requested to take note that the 100-meter periphery around the counting center will be demarcated as a “pedestrian zone” and no vehicles shall be allowed.

It also informed that only the candidate/ his election agent and counting agents appointed by him and any other person with an authorized photo identity card issued by the Elec -

tion Commission/District Election Officer/ Returning Officers displayed on his person shall be allowed to cross the first cordon of security ring.

The information also said that no personal items like cellular phones, camera - still or video (except official recordings by appointed persons) are allowed inside the counting hall. If any such items are brought, the same should be deposited at the counter.

2nd Death a nniversary

Of our beloved mother, Late Salumi Kikon Died on 1st March 2021

Two years have passed since you left for your heavenly abode. But you are fondly remembered and deeply missed.

Your love and guidance will always remain rooted in our lives, until we meet again, Love you Mum.

Loving Husband, Children and Grandchildren.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

“The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord” Job 1:21

Lt. Ruvuotuou Miachieo Died on 01/03/2022

God is not unjust: he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people…… Hebrews 6:10 Remembering and honoring you on this day. It’s been a year since you left us for eternity yet your memories still live on in our hearts. And you will be forever remembered until we meet again.

Rest with the Heavenly Angels.

Loving Mom and Family Members.

Acknowledgement

1st

Late Mrs. Bunuo Nakhro

16th February, 2023

We the family members of Late Mrs. Bunuo Nakhro would like to express our sincere gratitude to every individual who stood by us during her illness and passing away on 15th Feb 2023 at I.C.U Naga Hospital, Kohima. We fail to thank every individual personally but would like to request families, friends, organizations, churches, relatives and the Doctors & Nurses of I.C.U Naga Hospital Kohima to accept this acknowledgement as our expression of our deepest gratitude.

May Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Loving Husband, Mother, Children, Grandchildren & Relatives

k-388/23

DEATH

ANNIVERSARY of Lt Rev. Rhyutsemo Ngullie

1st March 2022 – 2023

Those we love don’t go away, they walk besides us everyday. Unseen unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear…

You had touched countless lives in your lifetime, and even after your death, you live through your good deeds….. Rest in eternal peace till we meet again..

Loving Wife, Children, Grandchildren, In-Laws and Relatives

15/08/1945 – 16/02/2023

We the family members of Lt. Sopu Zumvü would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to each and every individuals, relatives, friends and well wishers who stood by us during his prolonged illness till his last breath, physically, financially and spiritually.

We regret our inability to thank each and every individuals for your kindness and generosity, but it is our sincere prayer that Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

We convey our special thanks to :-

1. CRC Urra Village

2. Urra Village Council

3. Kenei SHG Urra Village

4. Women Society Urra Village

5. CRC Nachama Village

6. CRC Bethesda, Kohima

7. CRC Chiephobozou Town

8. Angami CRC Dimapur City

9. CRC Diezephe

10. CRC Khriezephe

11. NCRC Razhaphe

12. Nachamiapfü Krotho Dimapur

13. Bade Baptist Church

14. Kicha Khoya Krotho Dimapur

15. Riverine Public Secondary School, Urra Village

16. Principal & Staff of GHSS Chiechama

17. Zumvü Thinuo (Chiechama)

18. Nachama Village Council

19. Chiecha Kuda Union

20. FCCRYF

Loving children, grandchildren & in-laws

AR officer laying wreath at the memorial. AR personnel distributing relief material.

Q.: Are things going to improve after the next govt in Nagaland is

CMO Dimapur inaugurates AHWC rooms’ extension

development of the health center and therefore, to clearly demarcate the area of the center.

NEXT POLL

MARCH 1

DIMAPUR: Chief Medical Officer Dimapur, Dr. I. Moatemjen, inaugurated Tenyiphe-III AYUSH Health & Wellness Center newly built extended rooms on February 28. The inaugural function commenced with the ribbon cutting ceremony. In a press statement, District Media Officer, Kinmie stated that the newly extended rooms will be utilized as MO (AYUSH)

cum OPD room and Yoga Hall. Dr. Moatemjen in his inaugural speech stated that Tenyiphe-III sub-center was upgraded to AYUSH Health & Wellness Center and a new Medical Officer (MO) AYUSH was assigned to reduce the burden of health through holistic approach by promoting health awareness, promote preventive measures, promote healthy

lifestyle, yoga and meditation, telemedicine, and to provide easy and affordable access to health care to the public.

He further urged the community to take ownership of the health center and to continue their supports and contributions towards the development of the health center.

He also requested the local authorities to consider futu re growth and

The inaugural function was chaired by Dr. Alivi V. Chishi, MO (AYUSH).She also extended her appreciation towards the community leaders for the tireless support and contributions towards the improvement of the health center.

The invocation prayer was lead by Pastor Yovotsol Kikhi, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Village Health Committee Virazuma, chairman, Bizo Angami. A short speech was also delivered by VC Virazuma, chairman, Videzol Natso,

Other officials present during the inaugural function included, Dy.CMO, Dr. Antoly Suu, Dr. Kavito, Dr. Benchilo, Dr. Chem, Dr Rebecca, Dr. Valentina, Shri. Kikolul Khieya, staffs under DPMU Dimapur, BPMU Chumukedima and Tenyiphe-III AHWC, village council members, women leaders, and youth leaders of Tenyiphe-II, Virazuma, and Khriezephe villages.

NORTHEAST

Sitharaman applauds Sikkim for driving organic farming revolution

GANGTO K, FEB 28

(AGENCIES): Union Finance Minister Nirmala

Sitharaman applauded the people of Sikkim for driving the organic farming revolution.

She applauded how the State has risen beyond its attraction to trigger tourism and stepped into the world of enterprise development, with some of its organic products from the remotest of its places finding their mark even in today’s global market, reports India Today NE.

“The ready-for-market products with high standards displayed at the stalls at MG Marg reflect the grit and resilience of the local producers of the State,” she added.

Further, the Union Minister stated that Sikkim has so much to say but yet not much has been heard, hence have visited the state to witness the quiet work which is happening here which is motivating and also an inspiration.

She was addressing the inauguration event of the ropeway from Dhapper to Bhaleydhunga in Sikkim under the PM-DevINE Scheme which was held at Chintan

Bhawan, Gangtok.

In the capital Gangtok during the auspicious launching ceremony in presence of Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), She also shows his satisfaction with the work of NABARD saying “Delhibased body which is working in the farthest Nepal border area is exceptional.

The Union Finance Minister said that institutions like NABARD are agents of change and are doing exceptional work in reaching the government schemes to far-flung areas of Sikkim, including the cluster of villages in the SikkimNepal border and encouraging small entrepreneurs. For

NABARD to come this far and understand the communities of such places and enterprise them speaks about how every institution under the Government of India, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been realising the ‘Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas’ policy in the country, she stated.

Addressing the gathering, Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman expressed immense pleasure over the flourishing of progressive yet sustainable growth witnessed in various sectors in the State in its unique demeanour and added that these characteristics still remain understated despite the efficacy.

Narcotics worth Rs 16 cr recovered

On spot interrogation of the driver, it was revealed that the contraband was brought from Dimapur and supposed to be delivered at Barpeta.

In another operation, 5 Kilogram of suspected brown sugar was recovered from a person near C20 CRPF Camp in Bokajan on Monday.

Highlighting various key aspects of the Union Budget 2023-24, the Union Finance Minister said that the government is focused on making cooperatives the pivot of development of the rural economy and

added that the Cooperatives Ministry is looking into setting up a national cooperative database which will help in better implementation of national policy on cooperatives. She further informed that the govern-

Sikkim to showcase organic farming, industrialization of Sikkim, and tourism during G20 meetings scheduled to be held from 16th and 19th March said Chief Secretary VB Pathak.

The government has planned for topical discussion on the mentioned three topics as informed by Chief Secretary VB Pathak during the curtain raiser event.

India assumes the Presidency of the G20 for one year from 1st December 2022 to 30th November 2023, it will host over 200 meetings across the country.

The G20, or Group of Twenty, is an intergovernmental forum of the world’s major developed and developing economies. It comprises 19 countries and the European Union. Collectively, the G20 accounts for 85% of global GDP, 75% of international trade and two-thirds of the world population, making it the premier forum for international economic cooperation.

During the course of the G20 Presidency, India will host 215 odd meetings of various groups of G20 in 56 cities across the country.

It is a matter of great pride and honour that the State of Sikkim has been selected to host two meetings as part of India’s G20 Presidency, during the month of March

ment is also planning to set up a massive decentralised storage capacity tailored to the requirements of local cooperatives. She added that small and marginal farmers would benefit greatly from this year’s Union Budget.

2023 – the Business (B20) on 16th March 2023 and Startup 20 on 18th and 19th March 2023. These meetings will be attended by around 80 delegates from G20 countries. In fact, Sikkim is the only northeastern state to be selected to host two separate events under India’s G20 Presidency.

The B20 is the official G20 dialogue forum with the global business community and among the most prominent Engagement Groups of G20.

Secretary Pathak shared “for Sikkim, the B20 will offer a huge opportunity to highlight the economic potential and pave the way for partnerships with business communities from G20 countries. Known for its incredible natural beauty and strategic location, Sikkim offers a wide range of opportunities for multilateral business partnerships in Tourism, Hospitality, Agriculture and Pharmaceuticals. It is a rare forum where we can collectively present our economic strengths to the esteemed delegates from the G20 countries.

Likewise, Startup 20 will provide a platform for Startups in Sikkim to take their endeavours to the next level. Over the past few years, Sikkim has witnessed a visible shift in the mindset of the youth, and thus a rise in the startup culture.

Assam man trampled to death by elephant in Sonitpur district

GUWAHATI, FEB 28 (AGENCIES): A man was trampled to death by an elephant in the Balipara area of the Sonitpur district of Assam on February 28.

Meghalaya overall voter turnout is 85.17 percent

Assam Rifles apprehend NSCN (IM) cadre in Longding

ITANAGAR, FEB 28

(AGENCIES): Based on intelligent inputs, the Assam Rifles and Arunachal Police launched a joint operation on February 28 the security forces tracked down and arrested the suspected NSCN-IM operative from Longding, reports India Today NE.

During interrogation, the militant confessed his involvement in orchestrating the illegal extortion network of NSCN-IM in Longding district on behalf of his handler, Self Styled Chief Administrative Officer Wanham Wangsa.

Earlier, in a successful counter-insurgency operation launched by the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles with Tirap Police, one hardcore insurgent of NSCN

(IM) was apprehended on February 27 in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tirap district.

The insurgent was apprehended by the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles after they received input regarding the likely infiltration of a militant in the vicinity of Noglo village of Tirap district.

‘’Based on the input, the Assam Rifles troops with Tirap Police launched an operation in the border village. During the search of the area, a hardcore militant with a weapon was apprehended by the joint team, when the militant was trying to flee,’’ an official statement said. The apprehended cadre of NSCN(IM) has been identified as Nali Homnyu Nyamtey of Noglo village of Tirap district.

Tallest tricolor flag at historic INA HQ in Mnp tore by strong winds

pled to death, after a wild elephant allegedly took on him at a cantonment in Guwahati.

BOKAJAN, FEB 28

(AGENCIES): In yet another successful operation against drug trafficking, Police in Karbi Anglong recovered 4.1 kilogram drugs worth Rs 16 crore in two separate operations in Karbi Anglong district bordering Nagaland on Monday.

In the first operation, the police recovered 104.63 grams of heroin worth Rs1 crore from the Lahorijan area along Assam-Nagaland border late Sunday night.

“Acting on a secret information, the Dillai Police accompanied by CRPF personnel conducted a checking of vehicles coming from Nagaland and accordingly,

at about 9:30 pm, one white colour Maruti Alto 800 car bearing registration number AS 15S 4306 was intercepted and on search of the vehicle, our police team recovered 9 plastic containers stuffed with Heroin weighing approximately 104.63 grams from the vehicle. The contraband was kept concealed in the front dashboard and gear cover of the vehicle,” said a senior police offical.

The driver namely Md. Nur Hussain (24), son of Md.Nur Islam a resident of Barpeta and Md. Junab Ali (27), son of Md.Samad Ali a resident of Baksa were arrested.

Acting on a specific information, a special Naka was set up infront of C20 CRPF Camp Bokajan and at about 3 PM one suspected person was seen getting down from a bus with bags and on thoroughly searching the bags, a total of 5 kgs suspected brown sugar was recovered from his possession.

The arrested person have been identified as 55 year old Sunil Kumar of village Kagji Mahalla under Siwan police station in Bihar.

Bokajan has become a major transit route for drug trafficking from the infamous Golden triangle to Assam and other parts of the country.

The incident took place at Cotton Mill in Balipara’s Chariduar village and the deceased was identified as Debeswar Mech, reports India Today NE.

As per reports, the terrifying incident took place when the deceased went to feed a banana to the elephant.

In another such conflict, a 32-year-old man hailing from Dhing in Nagaon was killed by a rogue elephant who got separated from his herd.

The incident occurred at the Khatangpani range near the Tarani reserve forest under the Doomdooma forest division in the Tinsukia district of Upper Assam.

Besides this, in a tragic turn of events, an army jawan was allegedly tram-

The army jawan was identified as Khamliyong Khap, a native of Dimapur.

An official source from the site had confirmed to India Today NE that the incident took place on February 10 evening at Narengi cantonment of the Indian Army in Guwahati.

“It was an extremely gloomy evening, which is why the tragedy happened,” he added.

The source also claimed that the jawan, who suffered critical injuries in the elephant attack, was taken to the Army Base Hospital at Basistha in Guwahati, where he passed away.

It needs mention here that in quest of food, elephants frequently leave the nearby Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary. Elephants in the wild can frequently be seen roaming the Cantonment area.

Correspondent

SHILLONG, FEB 28:

Meghalaya registered a voter turnout of 85.17 per cent for the assembly elections that was held on Monday, Chief Electoral Officer Fredrick Roy Kharkongor said on Tuesday.

The voter turnout percentage is a marginal drop from the 2018 assembly elections which was 86.9 percent.

“85.17 per cent overall without postal ballot. If polls were held in Sohiong which is a rural AC with traditionally high voting ,the percentage could have touched 86 per cent plus,” Kharkongor said.

Election in Sohiong Assembly constituency seat has been adjourned following the death of former Home Minister and United Democratic Party candidate, Horju Donkupar Roy Lyngdoh due to massive cardiac arrest on February 21.

Correspondent

IMPHAL, FEB 28: Strong wind that lashed in parts of Manipur’s Bishnupur district on Tuesday afternoon tore the recently tallest tricolor flag in northeast at the erstwhile INA headquarters in Moirang.

The 165 feet tall flag, the tallest tricolor in the entire northeast region of the country was unveiled by Union home minister Amit Shah on January 6 last at the same place where Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s INA hoisted the flag back in the year 1944.

The flag of 50 x 30 feet was torn in the middle by

the strong wind that lashed in the area today, around 12.45pm, a report said.

Authorities did try their best to hoist a new flag of the same size soon after it was damaged but did not materialize for the day. Official sources said that soon after the incident was reported by the staff of Keystone Infrastructure Private Limited stationed at the complex, the damaged flag was pulled down and they tried to replace it with a new one. The replacement was however stalled over question of the quality of the flag brought for replacement, the report added.

Dr. I. Moatemjen inaugurating AYUSH Health & Wellness Center at Tenyiphe-III .

In the presence of general observer, Himanshu Kumar Rai, district administrations and security forces for 12 Tseminyu AC Strong Room was sealed at 1.16 AM in the office of DC Tseminyu on February 28. (DIPR)

Poor road connectivity has added mobility woes to the polling personnel from Threntsuvong village polling station as they walked for more than one hour while returning back from the polling station at 60 AC Pungro-Kiphire under Kiphire district. (DIPR)

Arrested accused with seized items in police custody.

Sikkim to promote organic farming, tourism during G20 meetings

Nirmala Sitharaman visits a stall in Gangtok, Tuesday. (PTI)

AR personnel with the apprehended cadre.

Tripura BJP says it’ll do better than exit poll predictions

LEFT AND CONGRESS CONFIDENT OF MAJORITY

AGARTALA, FEB 28

(PTI): The ruling BJP in Tripura on Tuesday claimed that it will do much better in the assembly elections than the results shown in the exit polls, while the opposition Left-Congress rejected such predictions, stating it was confident of securing full majority.

BJP state president Rajib Bhattacharjee said his party’s result will be far better than what the exit polls have predicted.

“People have seen the exit polls and I believe the result will be far better than that. In 2018, the BJP government was formed for people’s welfare, and the government has done enough to bring development to the state,” Bhattacharjee told reporters at the Agartala airport after returning from Delhi.

CPI(M) state secretary Jitendra Chaudhury said the BJP won 36 seats in 2018 even though there was a

Shah to inaugurate new AR complex in Mizoram on Mar 17

AIZAWL, FEB 28 (PTI):

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate a new complex of Assam Rifles in Mizoram on March 17, Chief Minister Zoramthanga said on Tuesday.

Shah will inaugurate the AR complex at Zokhawsang near Aizawl, the CM told reporters.

Relocation of the Assam Rifles camp from the heart of Aizawl to Zokhawsang, around 15 km from the city, was among the top agendas of ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) in the last assembly polls held in November 2018. In February 2019, the Union Home Ministry had directed the Assam Rifles to shift its battalion headquarters to Zokhawsang by May 31 of that year. The country’s oldest paramilitary force has two Assam Rifles bases in Zodin and Khatla in the heart of the city. The one at Zodin is being shifted to Zokhawsang. During a meeting with Amit Shah in November last year, Zoramthanga had informed that the delay in the relocation of the AR camp was delaying infrastructural projects in the state capital.

Rijiju asks BJP workers to ensure party gets max seats in 2024 LS

becomes the MP from this area.”

the formation of the next government.

“Even if the Left-Congress gets a majority, Tipra Motha is welcome to join us,” he said.

Rajib Bhattacharjee

strong wave in favour of it.

“These exit polls have given them more than 40 seats despite the fact that there is no wave in favour of the BJP because of their misrule. The predictions are ridiculous,” he said.

He claimed the LeftCongress combine will secure a comfortable majority and the exit polls were a ploy to boost the morale of BJP leaders ahead of the counting on March 2.

Rejecting the possibility of a hung assembly, Chaudhury said Tipra Motha will get “some seats” but it will not be a factor in

Senior Congress leader Sudip Roy Barman also rejected the exit polls, exuding confidence that the opposition alliance will get an absolute majority in the 60-member assembly.

He urged the people to remain calm and wait for the Left-Congress’s victory.

IndiaToday-MyAxis indicated that the BJP would get between 36-45 seats in the 60-member assembly by garnering 45 per cent of the popular vote, most of it in the plains where Bengalis live, giving it a spectacular win.

It also predicted the Left-Congress combine would get a paltry 6-11 seats with just 32 per cent of the popular vote, a huge slide from its 43 per cent vote share in 2018.

Mineral mining with machines banned: Mnp CM N Biren Singh

Correspondent

MORIGAON (ASSAM), FEB 28 (PTI): Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday urged BJP workers to make the people aware of the work undertaken by the Central government and ensure that party candidates win the maximum number of seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

If the BJP government is working for the people but does not manage to win the maximum number of seats, it will serve no good for the saffron party, seeking a third straight term at the Centre in the 2024 polls.

Addressing a meeting of elected BJP representatives at Morigaon, Rijiju said, “We have to work by setting a target for 2024 Lok Sabha poll. We have to ensure that the BJP candidate

Payeng calls for week-long lockdown globally to strike eco-system balance

Correspondent

KOKRAJHAR, FEBRUARY 28: Expressing serious concern about global warming, Padma Shri awardee environmentalist Jadav Payeng urged global leaders to call for a week-long lockdown across the world to strike a balance in the eco-system.

Payeng also known as the Forest Man of India was speaking on the theme ‘Indigenous Knowledge System’ at the ongoing Bodoland International Knowledge Festival in Kokrajhar on Tuesday.

“I would like to request to the 800 crore people of the planet to think towards striking a balance of the ecosystem. I feel if we can give a lockdown for a week in a year globally, the balance of the ecosystem will be back gradually. I’m saying this from my personal experience,” Payeng said.

The four-day knowledge festival is being organised by Bodoland University with active support from the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) government. A believer in the con-

cept ‘God is nature and nature is God,’ Payeng also mentioned how he had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to preserve forests and green cover in India.

“I have personally written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that we can’t bring development by destroying forests. We must safeguard our forests and nature. The development at the cost of nature is a curse,” Payeng reckoned.

Payeng also expressed his hope that the new education policy in the country would bring some change. He further advocated for 60 percent reservation for women. “Women play a vital role in building human resource. And eventually,

that will help in striking the balance of the ecosystem,” 64-year-old Payeng who has been invited to several places across the globe for environment-related issues, said.

Addressing the students, Payeng recalled his early days when he started to plant trees in 1979 which eventually turned out to be a huge forest after 30 years.

On the second day of the festival, several seminars took place on the themes like quality education, sustainable agriculture, behaviour change, science & technology, gender empowerment, communication and media, human rights, child rights & protection and peace building among others.

Earlier, the festival was inaugurated on Monday in the presence of several dignitaries including Nobel laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, Padma Shri awardee philanthropist and diamond exporter Savji Bhai Dholakia, SECMOL founder Sonam Wangchuk, Bollywood actor and philanthropist Vivek Oberoi among others. EOM

AssameyesGuinnessrecordonBihuwith11,000 performers;PMtoattend,allCMstobeinvited

tival, and will be included as Assam’s calendar event.

Morigaon comes under Nagaon Lok Sabha constituency, which was wrestled by Congress’ Pradyut Bordoloi from the BJP in the last election.

The Union Law minister asked the party leaders to visit people and make an assessment of the functioning of government schemes, like the construction of toilets, and providing potable water and LPG connections to every household.

“The public must be made aware of who has given them these facilities. We are working for winning the election. What is the use if we work but still lose?” the MP from neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh quipped.

Rijiju, who reached Morigaon on Monday night, met old members of the Jan Sangh during the day and attended a Vichar Parivar Samanvay Baithak at the local RSS office here. Rijiju is scheduled to hold a series of meetings with government officials and elected representatives before leaving on Wednesday.

IMPHAL, FEB 28: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh assured the house of Manipur Assembly in the ongoing budget session that any activities that are disastrous to the environment will be seriously dealt with as per the law.

Singh informed the house that the cabinet has resolved to ban using machines in mining of minerals including sand in riverbeds in the state. However, manual mining will be streamlined considering the livelihood of the manual labourers. The manual workers can continue their work with prior permissions from commerce & industries and forest departments, he added.

The chief minister made the statement in reply to a calling attention put up by opposition Congress member Surjakumar Okram on the illegal mining leading to deterioration of rivers, particularly Thoubal River running

in Thoubal district. The opposition member drew the attention of the chief minister who is also the leader of the house in the backdrop of hue and cry of the people residing on the banks of the river over the unusable state of the river water due to mining of sand and stones using machines.

Singh said, “We, the human beings, are selfish and some of the people have no civic sense.”

He said that 99 per cent of the people were not aware of setting up toilets properly. They built toilets on the river bank or drained toilet waste to the river without bothering that

they were also consuming the contaminated water.

He informed the House that recently the government has done a mass drive of eviction of toilets and cleaning the river banks stretching from Kangpokpi to Imphal River.

He also said that Singda Dam, the main source of water for the Imphal West district was drying up because of the cutting down of trees on the hills around Singda, leading to scarcity of drinking water. He further informed that the government has taken up steps from time to time by arresting those involved in illegal mining and quarrying especially at Thoubal river.

For the survival strategy, the people were illegally mining sand and others, neglecting the consequences that affect the future generation.

“Any activities that are disastrous to the environment will be seriously dealt with as per the law,” he said.

Indian Army makes new changes in Agniveer recruitment

Correspondent

SHILLONG, FEB 28:

Candidates wanting to join the Indian Army as Agniveers will now have to first appear for an online common entrance examination (CEE), followed by physical fitness and medical tests.

Earlier, the recruitment into the Indian Army was done by first holding the physical and medical test followed by the common entrance test.

The changes were made due to the large number of candidates turning up for the physical test and thereafter failed to clear the CEE.

“The large turn up at the recruitment rallies has put pressure on the administration and so the process of recruitment has been changed,” Brigadier Harpreet Singh, Deputy Director General (RTG) told reporters on Tuesday.

He said the Indian Army is going through a transformational change in recruitment procedure of Junior Commissioned Officers and other ranks. .

Brigadier Singh said the online registration on Join India Army (JIA) website is open from 16 Feb 23 to 15 Mar 23. Candidates can either register using their Aadhar Card or their class 10th certificate.

As part of continued automation, the JIA web-

site has now been linked with Digilocker for greater transparency, he said adding, complete procedure on “how to apply” has been given in a video which is available on JIA website and on YouTube.

“The Agniveer scheme has been implemented to make the army leaner and also recruit youth who would be able to handle the technological transformation the army is undergoing, ”Brigadier Singh said.

Amid row, Tripura varsity denies publishing poll survey

AGARTALA, FEB 28 (IANS): After a huge controversy rocked Tripura, the Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) University, a state government varsity, on Tuesday denied that it has published any poll survey.

MBB University Registrar Sumanta Chakrabarti said that the varsity has not published any poll survey about the outcome of the February 16 Assembly elections in Tripura.

“The poll survey report titled “Tripura Electorate 2023 ElectionSurvey Report” by Policy Research and Centre for Contemporary India Study (PRACCIS) is an independent poll survey and MBB University has not authorised any person, group or organisation to use its name or logo or photo for the purpose of survey,”

No child marriage in last one month in Assam: Himanta

a statement said.

It said that the MBB University strongly condemned the use of its name and logo by the PRACCIS in its poll survey report.

In its survey report, PRACCIS, a Delhi-based research institution specialising in field work-based study of contemporary India, has predicted that the BJP will win 34-39 seats in the 60-member Tripura Assembly elec-

tions. Tripura Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Gitte Kirankumar Dinkarrao told a CPI-M-Congress joint delegation that the Election Commission would serve a show-cause notice to the MBB University. CPI-M state Secretary Jitendra Chowdhury, after meeting the CEO, said that a government varsity cannot do a survey violating the model code of conduct of the elections. Chowdhury along with Congress leader Sudip Roy Barman has demanded strict action against the Vice-Chancellor of the University. Claiming that the Left-Congress, which contested the election on a seat-sharing adjustment, would return to power and said that the prediction of the survey was far from the truth.

Stuck in traffic, Mizoram minister, MLAs hitchhike to assembly on scooters

AIZAWL, FEB 28

GUWAHATI, FEB 28

(PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will witness 11,140 dancers and drummers performing on Bihu in Guwahati to make it to the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest recital of the folk dance form.

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said Modi will be present at the state government event on April 14, mainly initiated to popularise Bihu at the international level.

“We will also invite all the governors and chief ministers of India. Our

ministers will travel to the states from March 20 to 30 to invite them,” he added.

Besides, all the ambassadors and high commissioners of the G20 countries and South-East Asian nations in India will be extended invitations to witness the spectacular programme, Sarma said.

“In total, 11,140 dancers and drummers will take part. The ratio of boys and girls will be 30:70. There will be participants from each district of Assam,” he said.

The chief minister said that the government has already sent a sample video of the Bihu dance with lim-

ited dancers to the Guinness World Records, which has given its initial clearance.

“If we can do it as per plan, it will be the largest Bihu dance recital at a single venue. The duration of the dance will be 15 minutes. It will be a short and sharp programme,” he said.

All the participants will be given an allowance of Rs 10,500, from which they will also buy two pairs of costumes, Sarma said.

He said that from next year, the state government will hold a seven-day Bihu celebration in Sivasagar and Guwahati in line with Nagaland’s Hornbill Fes -

“During the function, the prime minister will roll out the beautification project of Rang Ghar. We will also try to inaugurate the AIIMS at Guwahati as well as lay the foundation stone for the Palasbari-Sualkuchi bridge over Brahmaputra,” Sarma said. The ‘Rang Ghar’, an amphitheatre, was built by King Pramatta Singha. This two-storied oval-shaped pavilion in Sivasagar is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. Besides, the state government has decided to offer grants of Rs 1.5 lakh to each Bihu celebration committee and a detailed SOP will be published within the next few days, Sarma said.

“After registering Bihu in the Guinness Book of World Records, our next attempt is to include Bagurumba dance of Bodo community in the record book next year. We are already talking to the Bodoland Territorial Council,” he added.

The chief minister also said that police will launch an “intense operation” to stop sale of machine-made ‘Gamocha’ (Assamese scarf), which has recently received the coveted Geographical Indication (GI).

GUWAHATI, FEB 28 (PTI): Justifying the crackdown on child marriages in Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said not a single such incident has taken place in the state in the last one month.

The Assam government on February 3 started an intense drive against child marriages across the state, registering over 4,000 cases. Till Tuesday, 3,145 people have been apprehended. “In the last one month, not a single child marriage has taken place in Assam.

This is a big achievement. Everyone has welcomed our steps against this social menace,” Sarma said at a press conference here. He said that of the total number of persons arrested, around 900 have received bail from the courts.

“I thought that they would be released from the jails within seven-eight days. But most of them got bail after 14-15 days. The judiciary also appreciated our move,” Sarma claimed.

The Gauhati High Court on February 14 said there was no need for custodial interrogation of the accused in such cases.

(PTI): Stuck in their cars in Aizawl’s traffic, two Mizoram MLAs and a minister on Tuesday hitchhiked to the assembly on twowheelers.

The photos of Land Revenue and Settlement Minister Lalruatkima, opposition ZPM leader Lalduhoma and ruling MNF legislator F Lalnunmawia riding pillion on scooters through the city’s maddening traffic went viral on social media. They were heading to the assembly to attend the budget session when they were stuck midway due to a traffic snarl, caused by the renovation of the road between Temple Square and Vaivakawn. Work is underway in the

Mizoram ministers hitchhiking

area for the three-day B20 meeting, being organised by the CII as part of India’s G20 presidency.

The minister and the ZPM leader were rescued from the traffic by two journalists who were also on the way to the assembly.

“The three legislators were stuck due to road renovation works. They were standing on the roadside. As I approached them, minister Lalruatkima asked me to give a ride to Lalduhoma. And he got onto the two-wheeler of another journalist,” said Zohmingmawia, a senior reporter of a local newspaper. Lalnunmawia was given a lift by another person, he said.

Mizoram to host G20 meeting from March 1-3: CM

AIZAWL, FEB 28 (PTI):

Mizoram will host a G20 meeting here from March 1-3, where business delegates and diplomats from across the world are expected to participate, Chief Minister Zoramthanga said on Tuesday.

Around 85 local startups will also take part in the event at the Mizoram University (MZU) on the western outskirts of Aizawl, he

said. “The G20 meeting will bring together several policymakers, business leaders, along with representatives of multilateral organisations,” Zoramthanga told a press conference here.

The chief minister said 48 business delegates and 17 diplomats from 17 countries, including the US, Germany, China, France and Japan would participate in the meeting. The event will focus

on opportunities for business partnerships in areas like urban planning, infrastructure, startups, skill development, handloom and handicraft, he said. Zoramthanga said the G20 meeting would provide a platform to project Mizoram as an important investment destination, besides giving the delegates a sneak peek into the culture, heritage and tourism potential of the state.

Over 10,000 Bihu dancers to perform on April 14, strives to enter Guinness World Records.

Kiren Rijiju

N Biren Singh

Jadav Payeng

SNIPPETS

Rajesh Malhotra PIB’s new Principal DG NEW DELHI, FEB 28

(PTI): Se -

nior Indian Information Service (IIS)

officer Rajesh Malhotra was on Tuesday appointed as the Principal Director General of the Press Information Bureau, a government order said. Malhotra, a 1989 batch officer, succeeds Satyendra Prakash, who superannuated on Tuesday. He will be the principal spokesperson of the government of India.

1 dies in suspected phone battery blast

UJJAIN, FEB 28 (PTI):

A 68-year-old man was found dead with his face and other upper body parts severely damaged in a suspected case of explosion of a mobile phone battery in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain district, police said on Tuesday. The incident took place on Monday in Badnagar town, about 50 km from the district headquarters, and forensic experts were conducting a probe into it, they said.

Dog mauls baby in Rajasthan hospital

NEW DELHI, FEB 28 (PTI): A month old baby sleeping next to his mother at a Rajasthan government hospital was taken away by a stray dog and mauled to death, the latest instance of a tragedy that plays out with horrific frequency in villages and towns across India. Police in Sirohi said the baby’s body was found outside the ward, his father spoke of the mother waking up to see dogs mauling her child and CCTV footage showed canines entering the premises in the dead of the night Monday. The debate over stray dogs was back on centrestage, nine days after a child in Hyderabad was dragged by a pack of stray dogs in a deserted street.

Family members of criminal attack cops

CHHATARPUR (MP), FEB 28 (PTI): Three policemen were injured when family members of a criminal hurled stones at a police team that had gone to arrest him in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district, an officer said on Tuesday. The incident occurred under the limits of Civil Lines police station on Monday night when a police team reached the house of history-sheeter

Deepu aka Dilip Jatav, against whom an arrest warrant was issued, said ASP Vikram Singh.

Sisodia, Jain resign from Delhi Cabinet

Portfolios to be given to Gahlot, Anand

NEW DELHI, FEB 28 (PTI): Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s trusted lieutenants Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain, both behind bars on corruption charges, resigned from the Cabinet on Tuesday.

Kejriwal has accepted the resignations of the two leaders, who played a pivotal role in implementing his governance agenda of good education and health facilities in the national capital, according to officials.

The opposition BJP had been demanding the resignation of Jain after his arrest in May last year by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case.

Sisodia too faced the heat after his name cropped up in the excise policy scam in August 2022. He was arrested by the CBI on Sunday evening in connection with the alleged corruption in the formulation and implementation of the now-scrapped

liquor policy for 2021-22.

Official sources said Sisodia’s portfolios would be allotted to Revenue Minister Kailash Gahlot and Social Welfare Minister Raj Kumar Anand. Sisodia, who was the deputy chief minister, was holding the charge of 18 out of 33 departments of the Delhi government, including health, finance, education and home.

Even after his arrest, Jain continued to be a minister in the government but without any portfolio. His portfolios, including health, home and urban development, had been handed over to Sisodia.

Sisodia’s workload had

almost doubled after Jain’s arrest, and he was handling most of the crucial departments of the city government. Both have led what the AAP describes as the “successful transformation” of Delhi’s education and health services, contributing to the party’s popularity and continued electoral success.

The BJP had stepped up its attack on the AAP following Sisodia’s arrest and had been demanding his sacking, along with that of Jain, from the Delhi Cabinet.

“BJP’s struggle has borne fruits. We had been demanding that Manish

Sisodia and Satyendar Jain would have to r esign and also go to jail. And out of embarrassment, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had to accept their resignations. This is a victory of BJP workers, a victory of truth,” Delhi BJP working

president Virendra Sachdeva said. “Liquor scam has happened with your complicity and right under your nose. You are responsible for it. Our struggle, demanding Kejriwal’s resignation, will continue,” he added.

SC refuses to entertain Sisodia’s bail plea

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to entertain a plea of former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, seeking bail and quashing of the FIR in the excise policy case, saying it would set a “wrong precedent” and efficacious alternative remedies are available to him.

“Since the petitioner (Sisodia) has efficacious alternate remedies available under the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure 1973, we are not inclined to entertain the petition under Article 32 of the Constitution, at this stage. The petition is accordingly disposed of,” a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice P S Narasimha said.

The bench observed that just because the incident has happened in Delhi, Sisodia cannot come to the apex court directly as he has his remedies before the trial court concerned as well as the Delhi High Court. Senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for Sisodia, questioned the need of arresting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader saying policy decisions were taken at different rung and moreover, no money was recovered.

He said that the Lieutenant Governor was also part of the policy decision in the excise policy.

As the apex court observed that it would not entertain the plea at this stage, Singhvi withdrew it.

Killers of Kashmiri Pandit gunned down in Pulwama

SRINAGAR, FEB 28

(PTI): Two terrorists believed to be behind the recent killing of a Kashmiri Pandit were gunned down early Tuesday in an encounter with security forces inside a mosque in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district. An Army jawan was also killed.

Security forces cordoned off an area in Padgampora village following a tip-off that at least two armed terrorists were hiding inside the mosque, officials said. The incident, which comes after Sunday’s killing of a Kashmiri Pandit, took place around 1.15 am.

“Security forces ex -

ercised extreme restraint given the fact that the two local militants were holed up inside a mosque. We were determined to ensure there was no damage to the mosque,” a senior police officer said.

Tharoor takes dig at PM’s ‘na khaunga na khane dunga’ slogan

During the encounter, a soldier working with 55 Rashtriya Rifles received a bullet in his thigh, puncturing a main artery. There was heavy loss of blood and the soldier could not survive, the officer said.

Recapping what had happened, he said one of the terrorists, identified as Aqib Mustaq Bhat, was killed in the mosque premises. The other, identified as Ajaz Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Trall near Pulwama, jumped out, possibly from a window, and took refuge in a house close to the mosque. His location was tracked through technical surveillance and security forces trapped him inside the house before shooting him dead, the officer said.

On Sunday, Sanjay Sharma, a bank guard, was shot dead by terrorists barely 100 metres from his home in Achan in Pulwama.

VP Dhankar hits out at BBC documentary, George Soros

CHENNAI, FEB 28 (PTI): Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar hit out at the “narrative set afloat” against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hungarian-American businessman critic George Soros, on Tuesday saying those who play politics the other way around need to be combated, neutralised and must face rational questioning. Dhankar said India has a robust legal system where things are realised for the high and mighty, including the Prime Minister.

“For two decades, the issue was deliberated in judicial quarters, thoroughly investigated at all levels. The highest court of the land, the highest court of the largest democracies pronounced on all fronts in 2022 finally, and we have a narrative being set afloat by a documentary, some people say this is expression,” the VP said in an apparent reference to

the BBC documentary on Narendra Modi. “So in the name of expression can you run down the Supreme Court, can you run down two decades of thorough investigation? This is playing politics the other way around. When people choose to play politics the other way around, the young minds here and outside are intellectually equipped to challenge them,” he said while addressing the students after inaugurating the Centre for Innovation at IIT Madras here. BBC documentary pertains to the 2002 Gujarat riots when Modi was the chief minister of that state. Without mentioning names, he said “there is one gentleman somewhere using some money power, he has some backers, he has some beneficiaries, he has some fiscal parasites and they talk about our country’s democracy.”

Major policy change for new railway officers

NEW DELHI, FEB 28 (PTI): In a major policy change, young officers of the Indian Railways will now have to spend first 10 years of their service in the field before being eligible to be posted at the headquarters, the Railway Board has said.

Currently, even new officers could be posted at the headquarters.

Sources said the decision has been taken to ensure that officers have enough experience at the field-level before making their way to cushy posts in the HQ.

“In order to ensure adequate exposure of field working to Direct Recruit

Group ‘A Railway officers, it has been decided that for the initial 10 years of their service, directly recruited Group ‘A’ Railway Officers shall normally be posted in field and shall not be posted in the headquarters,” the order issued by the Railway Board said.

Notably, addressing a meeting after a derailment in Andhra Pradesh recently, Railway Board Chairman A K Lahoti had asked general managers and divisional railway managers from across India to go to the accident sites themselves and seek solutions.

“Field postings are strenuous and demand -

ing and is more productive for railways. It also readies young officers for challenges that they might encounter and help in their decisionmaking,” the officials said explaining the idea behind the decision.

Another officer said it has been felt that decision makers in the national transporter have increasingly become detached from realities on the ground.

“Initial postings on the field will make them equipped with ground realities. Also, they will learn how to live in rural areas where often even the basic amenities are missing,’ he said.

Men in ‘luxury car’ caught stealing flowerpots set up for G20 meet

GURUGRA M, FEB 28

BENGALURU, FEB 28

(PTI): The flight acceptance hot test of the CE-20 cryogenic engine that will power the cryogenic upper stage of the launch vehicle for the Chandrayaan-3 mission was successfully conducted, according to the Indian Space Research Organisation.

The hot test was carried out for a planned duration of 25 seconds at the High Altitude Test Facility of the ISRO Propulsion Complex at Mahendragiri in Tamil Nadu on February 24, the Bengaluru-headquartered national space agency said.

“All the propulsion parameters during the test were found satisfactory and closely matched with predictions,” an ISRO statement said on Monday.

The cryogenic engine will be further integrated with the propellant tanks, stage structures and associated fluid lines to realise the fully-integrated flight cryogenic stage, ISRO said.

Earlier this year, Chandrayaan-3 lander successfully underwent EMI/EMC test at U R Rao Satellite

NEW

DELHI, FEB 28 (PTI):

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday shared a list of leaders against whom graft probes were allegedly stopped after they switched sides to the BJP and took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘na khaunga na khane dunga’ slogan, saying that probably “he was only talking about beef”.

Tharoor’s swipe came a day after Delhi Dy CM

Manish Sisodia was sent to five-day custody of the CBI by a special court here in a excise policy scam case after

Centre here.

EMI-EMC (Electro - Magnetic Interference/ Electro - Magnetic Compatibility) test is conducted for satellite missions to ensure the functionality of the satellite subsystems in the space environment and their compatibility with the expected electromagnetic levels, it was noted. “This test is a major milestone in the realisation of the satellites,” ISRO had said.

Chandrayaan-3 interplanetary mission has three major modules: the propulsion module, lander module, and a rover. The mission’s complexity calls for establishing radio-frequency (RF) communication links between the modules.

During the Chandrayaan-3 lander EMI/EC test, launcher compatibility, antenna polarisation of all RF systems, standalone auto compatibility tests for orbital and powered descent mission phases, and lander and rover compatibility tests for post landing mission phase were ensured, according to ISRO.

being arrested on Sunday.

Taking to Twitter, he shared a list, widely circulated on social media, of eight leaders -- Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, former Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa, Suvendu Adhikari, Bhavna Gawli, Yashwant Jadhav, Yamini Jadhav, Pratap Sarnaik and Narayan Rane -- who either joined the BJP or its allies.

The screenshot of the list shared by Tharoor claimed that graft probes against these leaders were stalled after they switched sides in support of the BJP.

(IANS): A video went viral on Tuesday in which two men allegedly stole flowerpots set up for the G20 meeting near Shankar Chowk on Delhi-Jaipur Expressway in Gurugram. The Gurugram Police are now registering an FIR related to the matter.

“We have received a complaint from Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) following which we are filing an FIR in the matter. The car bearing number ‘HR20AV0006’ was reg is -

tered in Hisar and the owner is a lady identified as Beena. We will soon send her a letter to join the investiga-

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND DIRECTORATE OF TREASURIES & ACCOUNTS

NAGALAND :: KOHIMA

NO.DTA/ESTT-149/2022/ Dated Kohima, the February, 2023

NOTIFICATION

This is a reminder to all the HODs and DDOs to submit the GPF details for Grade-IV & Work-Charged Employees as notified vide Circular No. DTA/ESTT-149/2022 dated 15.12.2022 on or before the 3rd of March 2023. The aforementioned Circular and also information sought, listed departmentally, may also be downloaded from http://treasuries.nagaland.gov.in under the Grade IV GPF Menu

Sd/- (R.N.YANTHAN)

Principal Director

DC-212/23

NAGALAND ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION (NERC)

NAGALAND : KOHIMA

NOTICE FOR PUBLIC HEARING

Dated Kohima, the 28th Feb., ‘23

No. NERC/PWR/TARIFF/T-4/2023-24: As conferred under Section 62 of the Electricity

2023 In the office of the Nagaland Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), AG Colony, Kohima, Nagaland.

AM onwards -For all categories of electricity consumer i.e. Domestic, Commercial, Industrial, Bulk & Agricultural.

AYEMI Deputy Director, Nagaland Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Kohima.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson of the GMDA said they will deploy security guards and alerted the police so that such incidents could be avoided in the future.

The incident forced the district administration to act against the involved persons.

In the viral video which surfaced on Twitter, the two men can be seen standing alongside their KIA car,

which has a VIP number plate, in Gurugram’s Shankar Chowk, picking flowerpots one after the other and storing them in the trunk. The video had received over 5 lakh views and over 3600 ‘likes’ on Twitter. DC Gurugram responded to the viral post on Twitter and asked the city police to look into the matter.

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Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain at a press conference, in New Delhi. (PTI)

Jagdeep Dhankar

Army personnel at the encounter site in Pulwama. (PTI)

tion,” Umesh Kumar, station house officer of DLF Phase-3 police station told IANS.

Two men could be seen picking up flower pots.

Shashi Tharoor

ISRO conducts engine test for Chandrayaan-3

A disruptive syndrome

If anything, the voices for Clean Election orchestrated under the platform of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council(NBCC) from 2012 which continues to be re-emphasized during every election, is still an unaccomplished task. The incomplete task to effect Clean Election was amplified even during the recently concluded election in Nagaland where polling was held on February 27. It was in 2012 that the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) made an attempt to encourage clean election in the state. The NBCC’s clean election campaign began with the release of its book on the subject. Since 90s, this newspaper has been commenting on the conduct of elections in Nagaland and drawing comparisons with elections in Mizoram. It may be recalled that in Nagaland, particularly since the early 80s, elections graduated into totally undemocratic methods and continue to worsen over the decades.

From ‘youth camps’ and open public feasts for party workers and public in the 70s’ to buying of votes and booth capturing in the 80s , electioneering became more aggressive. By late 80s to early 90s, gun power became the addition to the lethal arsenal in elections to not merely intimidate voters but also to arm twist village and town councils to support only a particular candidate. After the 90s, money became the deciding factor to buy not only votes but sustain an army of youth gangs and all various anti-social elements. Where there is muscle power, guns follow to ensure to not only to intimidate rival candidates and spread fear among voters but also to capture booths. In the recently held elections, money was without a doubt, one of the most used factor to buy votes. A candidate contesting for a small constituency of hardly 15,000 voters may spend up to Rs.15 to 20 crore in cash. In larger constituencies, a candidate could spend even anything from Rs.30 to 50 crore. Elections in Nagaland are not only among the most expensive in India but also most vicious. The consequences of such dubious elections are reflected at all levels of society such as- rampant corruption, injustice, violence and threats and blatant anti-social behaviour. Another issue that has also added a dimension over the call for Clean Election is the inability to enforce rule of law during election. Despite the deployment of 50 companies of Central Paramilitary Forces(CPF) in addition to 11 District Police, 8 NAP and 7 IRB(NAP) battalions for election duties, there were instances of violence in several parts of the state. In some of these, opposition parties have alleged that some of the officers were hand-in-glove with facilitating attacks on rivals. This is indeed a very serious issue which the ECI has to address and mete out stringent punishment against the erring officers. Hope was raised when the PHQ, during electioneering made it clear it will not shield any policeman indulging in electoral malpractices while exposing names of some involved. It is hoped the PHQ will do what it promised to do so that elections in Nagaland are free and fair so as to put the state back on track for a civilized society. Postpoll and later post-result violence is not unlikely and this has thrown up a serious challenge on law enforcement agencies to effect rule of law.

DailyDevotion

“Do You Now Believe?”

“By this we believe….” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe?” —John 16:30-31

“Now we believe….” But Jesus asks, “Do you…? Indeed the hour is coming…that you…will leave Me alone” (John 16:31-32). Many Christian workers have left Jesus Christ alone and yet tried to serve Him out of a sense of duty, or because they sense a need as a result of their own discernment. The reason for this is actually the absence of the resurrection life of Jesus. Our soul has gotten out of intimate contact with God by leaning on our own religious understanding (see Proverbs 3:5-6). This is not deliberate sin and there is no punishment attached to it. But once a person realizes how he has hindered his understanding of Jesus Christ, and caused uncertainties, sorrows, and difficulties for himself, it is with shame and remorse that he has to return. We need to rely on the resurrection life of Jesus on a much deeper level than we do now. We should get in the habit of continually seeking His counsel on everything, instead of making our own commonsense decisions and then asking Him to bless them. He cannot bless them; it is not in His realm to do so, and those decisions are severed from reality. If we do something simply out of a sense of duty, we are trying to live up to a standard that competes with Jesus Christ. We become a prideful, arrogant person, thinking we know what to do in every situation. We have put our sense of duty on the throne of our life, instead of enthroning the resurrection life of Jesus. We are not told to “walk in the light” of our conscience or in the light of a sense of duty, but to “walk in the light as He is in the light…” (1 John 1:7). When we do something out of a sense of duty, it is easy to explain the reasons for our actions to others. But when we do something out of obedience to the Lord, there can be no other explanation— just obedience. That is why a saint can be so easily ridiculed and misunderstood.

Quotes

Bengaluru tops in hate speech: what then is the way out?

Parliamentary democracy has reached its lowest point in recent times, wherein we keep witnessing all kinds of verbal and physical assaults happening in the state legislative assemblies. Both in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, the so-called parliamentarians are increasingly stooping down to unimaginable low exchanging harsh words against each other, which we call as unparliamentary words meaning unacceptable language or use of words. Nonetheless, hate speech has become a norm, new normal and part of parliamentary culture, wherein there is an absence of matured debates that pushes consensus and contrarian views taking place. The tenor and intensity of the usage of words sounds so harsh that manifests what’s going on inside those who freely pour out without any serious introspection.

Hatred coupled with venom is directed against a person or group of persons or a community with spite and bitterness boiling in their mind being poured out or expressed in the formats of words is called ‘hate speech’. ‘Hate speech’ has gripped the

country more in the arenas of polity wherein those legislators who are elected by the people to govern the states and country have nowadays stooped so-low in spewing words against those who they think to be hit by their words. Words we use entwined with the culture that reveals one’s brought up, environ, maturity, and thought process. While delivering a speech or point of view what we want to say comes out with a structure that engulfs all those elements.

‘Hate speech’ exhibits one’s personality, maturity and his/her total being and the way one thinks about the ‘other’ be it an individual or a group or a community against whom (the other) it is unleashed.

As Johann Von Goethe views that “Behaviour is the mirror in which everyone shows their image.” Speech is part of one behaviour because if someone crosses the decency in one’s t speech and enters the domains of hate speech then his/her behaviour becomes highly questionable. ‘Hate speech’ is so venomous which is accumulated in one’s mind highly corroded mindset being corrupted against

‘Alone we can do very little; Together we can do so much’. These words of the American writer Helen Keller are remarkably appropriate in the context of electricity for South Asian countries. Despite the huge potential, very little cooperation between countries in the region has been realized on electricity. Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal are known as BBIN countries. The socio-economic characteristics of these countries are very similar. Again, if desired, these countries can complement each other in the power sector.

BBIN countries have different patterns of electricity generation and demand. As a result, countries can utilize this potential to produce and supply electricity at the lowest cost among themselves. In this, the power shortage that is seen in each season in each country can be solved. The use of renewable energy will also increase. Indian Energy Exchange has come up with such a proposal.

Again, in February 2021, India approved cross-border electricity trade. As a result, BBIN countries can now increase power exchange and cooperation among themselves.

India could use the Green Energy Corridor to increase hydropower imports from Nepal and Bhutan to attain the renewable energy target of 2030.

Cross-border electricity trade already exists at bilateral levels. For example, Bangladesh,

someone who she/he cannot stand.

In India we find ‘hatred’ in the domains of politics where politicians belonging to political parties across the board are engaged in hate speech. They say whatever they want inside the assemblies or parliament whatever they want to say, since they are protected. Outside also they spill their sick mind against those who they hate. In fact, they are liable for punitive action but let loose because they are protected by the ruling party both in the state and at the Centre. Those engaged in ‘hate speech’ enjoy the immunity by virtue of being members of legislative assembly or parliament in reality totally immune to others’ feelings and dignity.

Bengaluru, called as ‘Silicon Valley’ of India is infested with hate speech. Bengaluru tops with 55 cases in hate speech and thus tops in hate speech.

To substantiate, the government data shows that Bengaluru has accounted for the largest number of complaints filed against hate speech in Karnataka between January 2020 and January 2023. According to the latest figures released

by the state home department on the 24 districts, at least 105 cases of hate speech were registered during the said period. Of these 105 cases, 55 were reported in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, the city I live. Other districts that follow Bengaluru are: Bidar, Kalaburagi, Shivamogga and Haveri had the maximum number of cases.

According to the home department, police officers have been directed to take cation in case of such complaints and “appropriate legal action’ is being pursued in order to ensure there is no social unrest in view of such speech. For example, since 2020, the maximum number of cases of hate speech were reported in 2022, as the figures more than doubled over the previous ear. When compared, in 2021, the number of such cases had dipped by 46% over 2020.

Few days ago, women’s rights activists, students and members of Campaign Against Hate Speech organized a protest outside the DGP of police in Bengaluru against rising number of incidences of hatred and hate speeches

against minorities in Karnataka.

While submitting to the police authorities a memorandum which states: “Many of these are repeat offenders … Hate speeches like these are not only a threat to the safety of the most marginalized, but they also hurt the right to equality and dignity of the minorities.” Nevertheless, two contesting views emerge: What is hate speech and what then is free speech? On this, courts have since 1950s been keep expanding the scope of the constitutional right and more clearly defined the restrictions. The test is whether ordinary citizens will get the same protection as ministers, party bigwigs as well as those with power and authority.

In the years 2017 and 2017, cases involving two ministers—one from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Kerala who made derogatory remarks the apex court in its landmark ruling on the question whether the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression enjoyed by ministers is different from that of the ordinary citizens as those who come from a position of authority may pose

restrictions be imposed on their right to free speech?

The response of the court was whether a person is an ordinary citizen or a minister or whoever, their free speech under Article under Article 19(1)(a) can only be restricted on the grounds cited in Article 19(2).

In all these, the judiciary is the custodian that invokes the Constitution for its interpretation to protect the citizens irrespective of whoever that person might be. However, it should be pointed out that by the time it goes to the court of law there are many things’ happening in-between. Though the Supreme Court has provided a number of directives mandating suo motu action against the offenders, however, there are a number of aspects that need to be looked into and thus come to play. More importantly, the law enforcement agencies that invariably support the ruling parties and those fringe outfits continues to spew venom and, in the process, promotes hatred have a clear sway. This dynamic will have to be taken seriously and counter-measures be evolved in order to curb hate speeches.

Dr. John Mohan Razu

collaboration’ diplomacy in BBIN countries

Bhutan and Nepal have bilateral cooperation models with India. Bangladesh also signed a Memorandum of Understanding for hydropower import from Nepal, using transmission lines from India. Since Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal have variations in the availability of energy resources and demand patterns, exploiting the untapped potential of greater cooperation can help them generate the leastcost electricity, address seasonal energy scarcity and advance the promotion of renewable energy.

These four countries have great similarities in terms of socio-economics. However, the electricity production and consumption patterns of these countries are different. For example, fossil fuel is the main method of electricity generation in Bangladesh. A total of 23 thousand 482 megawatts of electricity comes from here. On the other hand, less than 3 percent of electricity is generated from renewable energy. Besides, 1160 MW electricity is imported from India. It is estimated that the electricity demand in Bangladesh will reach 60,000 megawatts in 2041.

In 2022, Bhutan’s ‘installed power’ capacity was 2,335 MW. 99 percent of Bhutan’s national grid comes from its hydroelectric projects. In 2021, Bhutan generated 11,059 gigawatt-hours of electricity and exported most of it, or about 74 percent, to India. Again this Bhutan has to import electricity during the dry season. Because then the hydropower

project was stopped due to lack of water. Bhutan’s Department of Hydropower Systems forecasts that the country’s electricity demand will increase fivefold in 2030 compared to 2022. As a result, Bhutan will have to increase its power generation capacity at a large rate in the coming years.

On the other hand, India could collectively generate 409 GW of electricity till November 2022. The country’s power generation still depends on fossil fuels like Bangladesh. But the country is now increasingly dependent on other renewable energies, including hydropower. The country produces more than 166 GW of electricity in this way. Renewable energy and hydropower provide about 41 percent of India’s electricity grid. India aims to generate 500 GW of electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

Nepal can generate 2 thousand 191 MW electricity. The country is 96.2 percent dependent on hydropower. Besides, there are 3.7 percent thermal power plants. Like Bhutan, Nepal also suffers from power shortages in winter. Because, at this time the speed of water decreases. The country will need 19 thousand 151 megawatts of electricity in 2040. Which is 8.5 times more than their current capacity.

Energy demand in the BBIN region varies from country to country. For example, December, January and February in Bhutan have high electricity demand. But

this demand decreases from June to September. Electricity demand is high in Nepal from January to February. On the other hand, Bangladesh’s electricity demand is lowest at this time of the year.

The peak demand in Bangladesh is from April to June. And between November and February the electricity demand drops significantly. Some regions of India have high electricity demand from January to March or October to December.

For example, India is considering Nepalese and Bangladesh proposals to allow Kathmandu to sell electricity to Dhaka via Indian territory and Indian infrastructure which would deepen sub-regional cooperation in a big way. Officials say a meeting between Nepali and Indian officials led by energy secretaries of the countries will finalize the matter. The meeting is scheduled to be held in the third week of February in New Delhi.

India offers the opportunity to interconnect the Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal electricity supply industries. The possibility of using Indian power infrastructure for electricity trade between Nepal and Bangladesh is another facet of India’s neighborhood engagement. These bonds of support, trade and economic opportunities should bind the countries, with India as a critical player. Acting in unison would be in the enlightened self-interest of each country in South Asia. This approach makes India a reliable partner. The power trade

Child marriage an ongoing problem in Assam

Child marriage is a social phenomenon prevalent in several cultures and religions. In some communities, marriages are arranged as early as age two. Although child marriage is considered obsolete in some countries, it continues to be a serious issue in others. Child marriage is common in Assam. According to the 5th National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted in 201920, 31.8% of women aged 20-24 in Assam were married before the legal age of 18, higher than the state figure of 23.3% %. The state also has high infant and maternal mortality rates. CM Sarma cited the figures as the reason for the wave of arrests.

In 2016, the UK government repealed a law allowing children under 16 to get married with parental consent. Similarly, India’s Supreme Court banned child marriages in Gujarat in 2017, but loopholes in its law allowed child marriages to take place in secret. As a mother nation, India must eradicate this practice throughout the country.

“The Assam government is determined to end the threat of child marriage in the state. @assampolice has recorded 4,004 cases across the state so far, and more police action is likely in the coming days. Cases to begin on 3rd Feb Trial. I urge everyone to work together,” CM Sarma tweeted.

It’s a story of a steady decline In underage marriages, with the vast majority of such marriages restricted to the 15-17 age group – only 8% were married at or before age 14.

Assam accounts for just 3% of all pre-18 marriages in the country – even a state like Gujarat has 4.4%. One statistic that sets Assam apart and might explain the sudden adoption of “zero tolerance” is the religious statistic. According to NFHS-5, while the underage marriage rate for Hindus in Assam is 23.5%, which is close to the national average (23.2%), it is similar for Muslims (45.8%) and Christians (23.8%), far from That’s above their respective averages of 26.4% and the national

average of 15.2%.

All Indian data shows that early marriages are concentrated among the poorest, and this is even more so in Assam, where 42% of people marry minors in the poorest 20%.

Poverty is strongly correlated with religious minority status – 51% of Muslims belong to the poorest class, while only 31% of Hindus are in the same class

“The general perception is that child marriage is a problem in Muslim societies. But Duburi has a high child marriage rate because it is one of the poorest districts in Assam where most of the families are illiterate.

No Because Muslims live here,” Mr Zaman said. Child marriage is not uncommon in Assam. According to the 2022 Population Sample Survey conducted by the Union Home Ministry, Jharkhand and West Bengal have the highest child marriage rates in the country, more than any other state.

PG 1st semester, Department of MCJMS, Cotton University, Guwahati, Assam

between Nepal and Bangladesh also reflects the active role of a silent organization BBIN. Nepal will gain from the sale, and Bangladesh will benefit from access to electricity.

Besides opening the opportunity for bilateral trade between Nepal and Bangladesh, a new opportunity for sub-regional energy trade among BBIN countries is also emerging, with India itself pushing for it. For this, transmission line connectivity alone will not be enough. There is a need for harmonized rules and regulations among the participating963.- countries and there should be a multilateral agreement on details including the wheeling charge of electricity among the participating countries. It is hoped that Nepal and Bangladesh will widen collaboration in the power sector and include partner nations to solve the energy interdependency in South Asia.

That is, these four countries can meet each other’s electricity needs at different times of the year. Nepal can generate up to 40 GW of hydropower if it wants. But they are using only 5 percent of their potential. Bhutan has a potential of 23 GW from hydropower but they are only able to use 10 percent of it. Bangladesh’s problem is about adding renewable energy to the grid. Bangladesh can expand its renewable energy path by investing in Nepal and Bhutan.

Jubeda Chowdhury, The writer is a columnist, researcher.

Reader’s Post

To those who sold their votes and gave proxy vote

Sir, I would like to tell those who sold their votes and engaged in proxy voting that they are responsible for:

1. Lack of employment for the youths.

2. Government servants not getting salary on time.

3. Blatant and rampant corruption in Nagaland.

4. Students not getting scholarship on time.

5. Lack of world class infrastructures for the public.

6. Nagaland being amongst the poorest states in India.

7. Backdoor appointments.

8. Dilapidated or no roads in remote areas.

9. A stadium that has not been completed.

10. Government schools with proxy teachers or no teachers.

Ironically, people who are indulging in such malpractices are youngsters their 20s and they don’t even know they are destroying their own future. Sad state of affairs.

Amenla Jamir, Dimapur, Nagaland.

“Life’s tragedy is that we get old too soon and wise too late.” ~ Benjamin Franklin

‘Electricity

SNIPPETS

Amit Shah to flag-off

‘Yatra’ in Ktaka on Mar 3

NEW DELHI, FEB 28

(PTI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah will undertake a day-long visit to Karnataka on March 3 during which he will flagoff two ‘Rath Yatras’ and address a public meeting, sources said on Tuesday.

From March 1, the BJP plans to start four separate ‘Vijay Sankalp Rath Yatra’ from different parts of Karnataka, where assembly elections are due in May. BJP President J P Nadda, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other senior leaders will join the two other yatras that will converge at one place after 20 days.

BJP leader booked for abetment to suicide

GURUGRAM, FEB 28

(PTI): Haryana BJP state secretary Manish Yadav has been booked by the Grurgram police in an abetment to suicide case, officials said on Tuesday.

The case was registered at Sector 9A police station here on Monday after a 48-year-old milk booth owner allegedly ended his own life by hanging in his rented house and left a suicide note in which he wrote that he took the step after being harassed by Yadav and one Bachchu Singh, they said.

Couple killed in road mishap on Expressway

MATHURA, FEB 28 (PTI): A man and his wife were killed when an unidentified vehicle hit their scooter from behind on the Yamuna Expressway here on Tuesday morning, police said. A youth who was also travelling on the scooter with the couple was seriously injured in the accident, they said. Woman held for stealing jewellery in Maharashtra

MUMBAI, FEB 28 (PTI):

A 40-year-old woman was arrested on Tuesday, 24 hours after she allegedly stole gold and diamond jewellery worth Rs 7.5 lakh from her employer’s house in suburban Kandivali here, police said. The woman was apprehended from neighbouring Thane district and the stolen jewellery was recovered from her possession, an official said.

Overage Army aspirant commits suicide in MP

SHIVPURI (MP), FEB 28 (PTI): A 22-year-old Army aspirant allegedly committed suicide in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district on Tuesday after failing to qualify for the Agniveer selection process as he was overage, police said.

Kedar Pal left home in the early hours of the day to go for a run, but was later found hanging from a tree, around 200 metres from his house in the town, an official said. According to Pal’s friends, he had aspired to join the Army and exercised a lot to keep fit.

K’taka govt employees set to go on strike

HUBBALLI/BENGAL-

URU, FEB 28 (PTI): With the government employees in Karnataka set to go on an indefinite strike from March 1, seeking fulfilment of various demands, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Tuesday reached out to them, saying the administration was ready to seek 7th Pay commission’s interim report and implement it.

Six booked for dowry harassment in Maha

THANE, FEB 28 (PTI):

A 28-year-old man and five of his family members have been booked for allegedly harassing his wife and driving her to commit suicide in Maharashtra’s Thane district, police said on Tuesday. The case against the six came on a complaint by the woman’s father, said the official.

Shiv Sena row: SC questions Shinde faction

NEW DELHI, FEB 28 (PTI): The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Eknath Shinde-led faction if its move to go against the Shiv Sena party’s wish to continue with the coalition in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) amounted to indiscipline leading to disqualification.

Defending its stand, the Shinde faction said the legislative party is an integral part of the original political party and informed that there were two whips appointed by the party in June last year and it went with the one that said it did not want to continue in the coalition. A five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud told senior advocate Neeraj Kishan Kaul, appearing for the Shinde faction, “If you don’t want to go with the alliance, decide that outside the House (state assembly).”

“Inside the House you are bound by the party discipline. Your writing of letter

SAYS ‘YOU ARE BOUND BY THE PARTY DISCIPLINE INSIDE THE HOUSE’

to the governor that you don’t want to continue with the MVA coalition, itself amounted to disqualification. The governor taking note of the letter actually recognised the split in the party,” it said.

Kaul assisted by advocate Abhikalp Pratap Singh said the governor is bound by the 1994 verdict of a nine-judge Constitution bench in the SR Bommai case, which was relied upon in the 2020 Shivraj Singh Chouhan case, that ultimately the test of majority has to be held on the floor of the House. “The

Christian leaders call on Andhra CM Jagan Reddy

Wantprotectionof churchpropertiesfrom allegedlandgrab

AMARAVATI, FEB 28 (PTI): A group of representatives from the Christian community called on Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy with a petition urging him to protect the assets belonging to churches in the state.

During the meeting here, bishops and other Christian leaders brought Reddy’s attention to the manner in which church properties in Andhra Pradesh are allegedly being grabbed.

“They brought to the notice of the Chief Minister that their properties are being grabbed and sought effective steps to protect them,” an official statement said on Monday.

The representatives met under the banner of AP Federation of Churches and also requested Reddy to exempt charity organisations from paying local taxes.

According to the statement, the Chief Minister assured them that an advisor would be appointed soon to spearhead their issues regularly to the government, including responding favourably to the request of separate cemeteries for the community.

governor was bound by this court’s verdicts and ordered for floor test. Else what is he supposed to do,” he said. The bench also comprising justices MR Shah, Krishna Murari, Hima Kohli and PS Narasimha asked Kaul to specify what was the relevant materials before the governor which made him ask for the floor test. “The government was running. Can the governor ask the chief minister for the floor test? Had it been after the election, then it would have been another matter. When a government is formed, it’s not open to

Shah, Nadda

NEW DELHI, FEB 28

(PTI): The BJP top brass, including Home Minister Amit Shah and party president J P Nadda, on Tuesday held a meeting here with party leaders from Telangana as they look to intensify their campaign for the state assembly polls expected later this year.

Sources said the party will be holding one rally each in the 119 assemblies of Telangana after completing over 10,000 street corner meetings across the state. Rallies are expected to begin by the end of March.

State leaders were also asked by the party leadership to further strengthen the organisation by inducting prominent personalities, including leaders from different parties who are

any group to say that we cannot go with this alliance. You, specify what were the compelling reasons which made the governor to ask the then chief minister to prove his majority in the House? What prevented the governor asking you to move no confidence motion in the House,” the top court said.

CJI Chandrachud asked why should a democratically elected government, which has been formed, be asked to face a floor test and does the governor by recognising the rival group not legitimise the defection, which is otherwise not permissible under the tenth schedule.

Earlier, in the day, senior advocate AM Singhvi appearing for the Uddhav faction said that with the things happening across the country it can be said that “governors are no more angels”. The hearing remained inconclusive and would continue on Wednesday.

Will continue raise people’s issues: Cong Saysnotscaredof agenciesunleashed bygovernment

NEW DELHI, FEB 28

(PTI): The Congress Tuesday said it was not scared of the agencies and the police “unleashed” by the government against it and will continue to raise questions concerning people’s issues.

The party also asserted that its just-concluded plenary session has laid the agenda to take on the BJP along with like-minded parties. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said the party carried out a successful succession plan and democratically elected a new party president. It took on the government and made it withdraw the farm laws and forced it on the backfoot on CAA legislations, she claimed.

“We have taken on the government from streets to Parliament and have played the role of an opposition ef-

fectively by raising issues of public importance. Agencies have indeed been put behind us in an unbridled manner and the police indulged in vandalism against not just our workers but even our top leadership.

“But neither their agency nor its ‘impotent’ police can deter or scare us. We will continue to raise our voices. We are not scared of them,” Shrinate told reporters. Shrinate noted that the party has fought with the farmers and “ensured” that the farm laws were repealed. The Congress took to the streets against inflation, unemployment and against brutal crimes against

women, she said. “Every time we took to the streets, the government unleashed its agencies and the police against us. Who is scared of your agencies? Perhaps you are but not us. “We are the only political party that has consistently taken on the government as far as the Adani scam is concerned. There is a corporate group which is engulfed in charges of stock manipulation, stock rigging and is charged with benami money coming from shell companies and the government wants to look the other way,” Shrinate said. “We will keep questioning you because this is about people’s money and about the people of this country.”

The Congress leader said the plenary session has not just laid the ground for a more robust, young, agile party but also has ensured greater participation and representation of SCs, STs, OBCs and minorities and women in various party positions.

ask Telangana BJP to campaign against KCR govt

favourably inclined to the BJP ideology, and boosting the number of members in booth committees from their current strength of around 10 to over 20.

BJP national general secretaries Sunil Bansal and Tarun Chugh, both of whom are coordinating the party’s work in the state, besides Telangana party chief Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Union minister G Kishan Reddy, Lok Sabha MP Arvind Dharmapuri and MLA Etela Rajendar were among those who attended the meeting.

The meeting comes in the wake of the CBI arresting Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the alleged liquor scam case in which the BJP has claimed that BRS leader K

Kavitha, who is daughter of the chief minister, is also involved, a charge rejected by her.

The CBI has arrested a Hyderabad-based chartered accountant in the case, and the BJP has alleged his links with her.

BJP sources, however, asserted there was no discussion on the issue in the meeting.

KVS recruitment scam unearthed in Ladakh, 1 arrested

LEH, FEB 28 (PTI): Police here on Tuesday claimed to have unearthed a Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan recruitment scam and arrested a person in connection with the matter.

A search is on for the other six accused, police officials said.

According to a police spokesperson, the alleged scam came to light following an investigation into a

written complaint made on February 11 by a Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya teacher Pradeep Kumar who was discharging his duties as an observer for the KVS recruitment exam.

Kumar alleged that while the exam was being conducted in the GCOM computer centre in Leh, the site supervisor of Aptech company, which has been hired by CBSE to

conduct the examination, was caught clicking pictures of the computer in which question papers were visible. During the preliminary inquiry, it was found that the accused had clicked the photos and forwarded them to a staffer for Lamdon online assessment centre situated in Leh, the spokesperson said.

Upon questioning him, it was revealed that he

was instructed by company co-owners to get the photos for lodging a complaint with CBSE so that they will change the examination centre from GCOM to their computer lab, the police official said.

He also revealed that the same examination was conducted in the Lamdon computer lab from February 9 to February 14 before the centre was shifted to

G20foreignministersmeetinDelhifromtoday

India hosting meet amid increasing rift between Russia, West on Ukraine conflict

NEW

DELHI, FEB 28

(PTI): Foreign ministers of G20 major economies will meet in the national capital on March 1 and 2 to deliberate on pressing global challenges amid escalating confrontation between Russia and the West over the Ukraine conflict that entered the second year this week.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, France’s Catherine Colonna, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, Germany’s Annalena Baerbock and British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly are among those attending the India-hosted meeting.

However, Japanese media reported that Japan’s foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is unlikely to attend due to his “scheduling conflict” with the parliament session. Hayashi’s visit was

seen as important in the backdrop of a plan to have a foreign ministerial meeting of the Quad countries on the sidelines of the G20 meeting. People familiar with the visits of the top G20 foreign ministers said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to hold a series of bilateral talks on Wednesday including with his counterparts from Russia and China.

The G20 foreign ministers meeting is taking place days after a gathering of finance ministers and the Central Bank Governors of the G20 member countries in Bengaluru failed to come out with a joint communique over sharp differences between the Western powers and Russia-China combine over the Ukraine conflict.

European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep B orrell

Fontelles, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajan, Australia’s Penny Wong, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Indonesia’s Retno Marsudi and Argentine Foreign Minister Santiago Cafiero are also among those attending

the GCOM computer centre. This was because in the Lamdon computer lab when the exam was being conducted some candidates, all non-locals were brought and helped with the papers.

An FIR under the relevant section of law has been registered at Police Station Leh and an investigation was taken up by the SIT, the spokesperson said.

the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting.

Besides participating in the G20 meeting, a number of foreign ministers are set to take part in the Raisina Dialogue, India’s annual conference on geopolitics and geo-economics.

ARBITRATOR ORDER DATED 07 FEB 2023 SUMMON FOR PHYSICALLYY PRESENT ON NEXT SITTING OF TRIBUNAL ON 10 MAR 2023

To, M/s JA Brothers (Respondent) NL Road, Near Mother Mary School Dhobinala Point, Dimapur Nagaland-797 112

Whereas, Union of India has Arbitration Case against you for Arbitrator Order dated 07 Feb 2023

The respondent was absence of three hearings, which was conducted by Sole Arbitrator at HQ CE (P) Vartak Office. You are hereby summoned to physically present before the Tribunal in person and able to answer all material questions relating to the Arbitration Case on 10 March 2023 at 11:00 a.m without fail.

Take notice that in default of your appearance on the date mentioned the Arbitrator Order will be heard and determined in your absence.

Bandi Sanjay Kumar later said in a statement that he and other party leaders from the state briefed the central leadership on the “successful completion” of 11,000 street corner meetings under the programme “Praja Gosa – BJP Barosa” (people angry, trust in BJP) to target Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao-led government.

“The party highcommand was immensely pleased with the outcome and directed the state leadership to undertake steps to strengthen the organisation further. They have advised us to intensify the struggle against the KCR-led government which is mired in corruption,” he said.

The BJP will contest on its own in all 119 assembly constituencies and there is clear signal from the ground that it will come to power after the assembly elections, he claimed.

To a question from media, he said the BJP has no role in charges levelled against Kavitha and AAP leaders in the case of alleged corruption in framing excise policy, now withdrawn, in Delhi.

Summer to be hotter: IMD

NEW DELHI, FEB 28

(IANS): The India Meteorological Department said on Tuesday that during the upcoming hot weather season (March to May), above-normal maximum temperatures are likely over most parts of northeast India, east, and central India and some parts of northwest India.

“Normal to below normal maximum temperatures are most likely in remaining

parts of the country. The month of March, otherwise considered to be springa transitionary month to summer - is likely to record above normal temperatures over most parts of the country except peninsular India where normal to below normal maximum temperatures are likely,” it said. There is a higher likelihood of heat wave conditions over central India even in March.

Supriya Shrinate

Security personnel during security check ahead of G20 meeting near Leela Hotel, in Gurugram, Tuesday. (PTI)

JP Nadda and Amit Shah (File)

India gives hope for the future: Bill Gates

NEW DELHI, FEB 28

(AGENCIES): Microsoft

co-founder Bill Gates visited the Reserve Bank of India’s office in Mumbai and held talks with RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das today. Bill Gates is currently on a trip to India to witness the progress made in various areas including climate change.

The official Twitter handle of the RBI shared a few pictures from Bill Gates’ visit where the philanthropist is seen standing next to Shaktikanta Das.

“Mr. Bill Gates visited RBI Mumbai today and held wide ranging discussions with Governor Shaktikanta Das,” the caption read.

Last week, Bill Gates, in his personal blog, Gates Notes, wrote that he would be visiting India to check the progress the country has made over the years. “I’m headed back to India next week. Although I’ve spent a lot of time there over the years—doing everything

from checking out toilets to visiting a village that’s home to the one poorest, most underserved castes in India—I haven’t been back since before the pandemic. I can’t wait to see how much progress has been made in that time,” Gates wrote.

Touching upon climate change and global health, Bill Gate appreciated India’s progress in solving various issues. He wrote, “There is no better proof than the remarkable progress that India has accomplished”.

Saying that “India as a whole gives me hope for the future”, Bill Gates

Meta creating team to build AI tools: CEO

SAN FRANCISCO, FEB

28 (IANS): Meta CEO

Mark Zuckerberg has announced that the company is creating a new “top-level” product team which will be “focused” on generative artificial intelligence (AI).

On Monday, Zuckerberg posted on Facebook, “We’re creating a new toplevel product group at Meta focused on generative AI to turbocharge our work in this area.”

“We’re starting by pulling together a lot of the teams working on generative AI across the company into one group focused on building delightful experiences around this technology into all of our different products.”

He further explained that in the short term, the company will focus on building creative and expressive tools.

And, over the longer term, the company will develop “AI personas” which will help users in a variety of ways.

The company is also exploring experiences with text (like chat in WhatsApp and Messenger), images (like creative Instagram filters and ad formats), as well as “video and multimodal experiences.”

“We have a lot of foundational work to do before getting to the really futuristic experiences, but I’m excited about all of the new things we’ll build along the way,” he added.

MoS IT Chandrasekhar launches GAC for safe internet

NEW DELHI, FEB 28

(IANS): In a bid to empower millions of Indian social media users, Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, on Tuesday launched the Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) that will look into their concerns regarding content and other issues.

The IT Ministry last month notified to establish three Grievance Appellate Committees (GACs) as required under the recently amended IT Rules, 2021.

wrote that India is about to become the world’s most populated country and yet it has “proven it can tackle big challenges”. He underlined that India eradicated polio, reduced poverty, lowered HIV transmission, and increased access to financial services and sanitation among other achievements.

Bill Gates further said he was “going to India next week to see firsthand the work being done by innovators and entrepreneurs”. He said India, despite having limited resources, has shown the world that progress can be still made with that constraint.

Reliance Jio to bring 5G to every Indian by Dec 2023: Akash Ambani

NEW DELHI, FEB 28 (IANS): Reliance Jio has launched True 5G service in 277 cities across the country and is on the path to achieve the declared goal to increase the Jio 5G footprint to cover every town, taluka and tehsil across the country by December this year, Akash Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd, said on Tuesday.

“Many novel-use cases are finding their way to the market across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, smart cities and infrastructure, including entertainment and productivity,” he stressed.

The healthcare sector is poised to be among the most significant beneficiaries of 5G technology.

“The move is to make sure that the internet remains open and safe for users in the country. These are early days for the committee and it will keep evolving as days progress,” the minister told reporters here.

The announcement came in the presence of representatives of Big Tech internet companies like Meta, Snap, Google and others.

The newly-formed panel, a move to strengthen the country’s digital laws to tame the Big Tech companies, will look into appeals by users against decisions of social media platforms.

Under the IT Rules, social media intermediaries like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp are already required to have a Grievance Officer to whom users may complain about any violation of the Rules.

The GACs will function as a “traffic signpost” on the Internet. Every GAC will have three members.

The need for such panels arose due to large numbers of grievances being left unaddressed or unsatisfactorily addressed by Internet Intermediaries.

The GACs are expected to create a culture of responsiveness among all Internet Platforms and Intermediaries towards their consumers.

Addressing a post-budget webinar coordinated by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) and Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), he added that this will be the world’s fastest 5G rollout. Jio has deployed “more than 40,000 sites and nearly 2,50,000 cells of 5G network in 700 Mhz as well as in the 3500Mhz band. We are on the path to achieve the declared goal to increase the Jio 5G footprint month after month to other cities, towns and talukas of various states/UTs,” Ambani said.

Jio is leading the 5G network rollout in the country with the world’s largest stand-alone network ar -

Unsustainable consumption needs attention: Bhupender

NEW

DELHI, FEB 28

(IANS): Environment minister Bhupender Yadav on Tuesday said that “unsustainable production and consumption needs urgent attention, if we are to confront the global environmental and climate changerelated challenges that we face today. We need to act fast before it is too late”.

He said that the IndoDanish Green Strategic Partnership is an appropriate forum to exchange ideas and best practices for promoting sustainable lifestyles, including LiFE, not only in the two countries but the whole world.

Addressing the India - Denmark: Partners for Green and Sustainable Progress Conference, Yadav said that since the launch of the “Green Strategic

Partnership” during the Virtual Summit on September 28, 2020 between Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, the bilateral cooperation is focussed on promoting green and sustainable development.

He said that during Modi’s visit to Denmark

in May 2022, India and Denmark had agreed to further strengthen the Green Strategic Partnership with a focus on green hydrogen, renewable energy and waste water management. Yadav said that India and Denmark have set very ambitious national targets on climate and energy that will contribute to an ambi-

tious implementation of the Paris Agreement.

“Together, the two countries can show the world that delivering on ambitious climate and sustainable energy goals is possible. It is also necessary, at the same time, to commit ourselves to the founding principles of the Rio Convention,” he added.

chitecture that is uniquely suited to cater to the requirements of True 5G technology.

“The impact on 5G that will have on India’s growing economy is immense. There is no other technology that has given us various growth sectors like 5G has as a rapidly growing and emerging economy. India’s uniquely positioned to take lead in the use of 5G technology for the betterment of society and livelihood of over 140 crore Indians,” Ambani added.

5G will make our cities smarter or society safer, utilities more stable and emergency services more responsive and industry more efficient, he said.

With 5G-enabled remote consultations, “patients can easily consult with doctors without physically visiting. This can save time, reduce the risk of exposure to infections, and dramatically lower healthcare costs,” Ambani added.

With 5G-enabled medical devices, doctors can get real-time information about a patient’s vital signs, allowing them to make faster and more accurate diagnoses.

5G ambulances would be able to transmit data and video to hospitals in real time. In agriculture, 5G can enable precision farming by providing farmers with real-time data on weather patterns, soil moisture levels and crop growth.

Cong petitions Election Commission for action on poll...

(From p-1)

Based on news reports, Dr.Kumar said Congress’ chief agent Among in had filed a complaint with returning officer, deputy commissioner (DC) Mokokchung, regarding the matter.

Meanwhile, Kumar also mentioned that Congress candidate T. Thomas Konyak from Tizit A/C had filed a complaint with Tizit district election officer and DC alleging that booths captured at Part 10 (Nokyan village), Part 9 (Loakho village), Part 4 (Nangtan village) and Parts 18, 19, 20, 30 (Tizit village), besides the attempt to tamper EVMs of Part 7 (Jaboka village), Part 28 (Old Jakoba village) and Part 8 (Neitong village).

Dr.Kumar lamented that no action has been taken on these complaints. In the light of the above, the Dr.Kumar appealed to the CEC to treat all these as urgent matters and take action against individuals involved in perpetrating violence on Toshipokba and his family members and those indulging in proxy voting. He asked ECI to order re-election in 26-Aolengden A/C, besides ordering immediate repolling in Part 10 (Nokyan village), Part 9 (Loakho village), Part 4 (Nangtan village) and Parts 18, 19, 20, 30 (Tizit village) and on attempt to tamper EVMs of Part 7 (Jaboka village), Part 28 (Old Jakoba village) and Part 8 (Neitong village).

State Govt constitutes assessment committee

(From p-1)

The committee will be headed by additional deputy commissioner (ADC) Kohima & CEO District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Kohima as convener, SDO (C) Sadar as member secretary and SDPO- South, OC - Fire & Emergency Services South, T Khel Council chairman, Kohima village, Mao Market Kohima Committee chairman and Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority nodal officer for Kohima district as members.

Meanwhile, eyewitnesses expressed anguish at the incident and questioned the competency of officials in-charge of the department responsible for handling such fire incidents.

The eyewitnesses alleged that fire tenders were improperly equipped while

fire fighters themselves were not wearing proper and regulated fire fighting uniform while operating under fire, smoke and falling debris. Over 100 poorly equipped fire fighters struggled to douse the fire, which was one of the biggest in recent memory in Kohima.

Responding to call for help, fire fighters from neighbouring districts also rushed with their fire tenders.

More than 100 truckloads of water are believed to have been used in the firefighting exercise by around 20 fire tenders.

Meanwhile, Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) led by its president Kezhazer Angami has expressed shock at the fire incident and regretted loss of properties.

Interacting with media,

Angami said KCCI had come to perform a survey on the total damage cause by the fire. He also appealed to members of KCCI to contribute to the victims of fire, disclosing that the trade body’s executives would facilitate in organising and collecting relief materials. Tsütuonuomia Council also extended help to the fire victims. The council held a meeting with Mao Market committee chairman on Tuesday to chalk out how to carry out relief duties.

Bill Gates and Shaktikanta Das at RBI office. (PTI)

Rajeev Chandrasekhar

Akash Ambani

Denmark’s Crown Prince and Princess with Bhupender Yadav and other dignitaries. (PTI)

SNIPPETS

Ecuador and Belgium

sign deal to fight crime

QUITO, FEB 28 (AGENCIES): Ecuador and Belgium on Monday agreed to increase bilateral cooperation in their fight against international organized crime, a day after Ecuadorean police seized nearly nine tonnes of drugs bound for the European country, reports Reuters. The interior ministers of both countries signed an agreement in Quito to promote the exchange of information, methodology, procedures and experiences, as well as technology to combat organized crime.

Hong Kong to lift mask mandate from today

HONG KONG, FEB 28 (AP): Hong Kong will lift its mask mandate on Wednesday, ending the city’s last major restriction imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The city’s chief executive, John Lee, said masks will no longer be required both outdoors and indoors, including on public transit, but some high-risk areas including hospitals and elderly homes can still require their use.

UN mission in Mali

to probe recent raid

UNITED NATIONS,

FEB 28 (IANS): The UN mission in Mali condemned and vowed to investigate a recent raid where terrorists killed at least 12 civilians, a UN spokesman said. The UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali, known as MINUSMA, condemned the attack by an armed terrorist group at the KaniBonzon village in the Bandiagara region, said Stephane Dujarric, the Chief Spokesman for UN Secretary on Monday.

2 injured in Germany school shooting

BERLIN, FEB 28 (IANS):

Two people have been seriously injured following gunshots near a school in Bramsche in northwest Germany, according to the local police. Police have arrested the suspected shooter, and there is no danger to the people. The school itself was also not affected, the police said as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

Sri Lankan trade unions strike on Mar 1

COLOMBO, FEB 28 (PTI): Sri Lankan trade unions are all set to defy an essential services order issued by President Ranil Wickremesinghe by going ahead with their one-day token strike scheduled on March 1 to protest the government’s tax and utility rates hikes. The trade unions belonging to various sectors had earlier urged the Sri Lankan government to withdraw its tax hikes.

ISKP military chief killed in Kabul

KABUL, FEB 28 (IANS):

The intelligence and military chief of Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) was killed during an operation in Kabul, according to a media report. Meanwhile, in a separate operation, the Afghan Taliban administration arrested a high-ranking ISKP officer who is known to have been working as the terrorist organisation’s subcontinent chief, The Express Tribune reported.

Robbers target Indian dairy shop owner in NZ

WELLINGTON, FEB 28 (IANS): A dairy shop owner of Indian descent and his family were left traumatised after robbers stormed his shop in West Auckland to steal cigarettes and cash. According to the police, two of the culprits were found and arrested.

Ukraine’s NE front may decide new battle lines

KUPIANSK/KYIV (UKRAINE), FEB 28 (AP): A tank carrying Ukrainian infantry speeds toward a target position marked with a metal sheet. The soldiers climb down, hurl grenades and unleash a crackle of machine-gun fire. Then they repeat the moves, getting faster with every iteration.

It’s only a drill. But with the sounds of the real war rumbling just seven kilometres (four miles) away, this daily training underscores the high stakes on Ukraine’s northeastern front, where military officials say a much-anticipated Russian offensive has already started, with fighting that could determine the next phase of the conflict.

Time is of the essence here, so speed and cohesion is the goal of the exercises that combine reserve tank and the infantry assault units.

“Synchronisation will be important to halt Russian offensives toward Ukrainian defensive lines,” said Col. Petro Skyba, commander of the 3rd Separate Tank Iron

FILE—Ukrainian servicemen take part in a drill in the Kharkiv area, Ukraine on Feb. 23, 2023.

Brigade.

Grueling artillery battles have stepped up in recent weeks in the vicinity of Kupiansk, a strategic town on the eastern edge of Kharkiv province by the banks of the Oskil River.

The Russian attacks are part of an intensifying push to capture the entire industrial heartland known as the Donbas, which includes the Donetsk and the Luhansk provinces.

It would be a badly needed victory for the Kremlin as the war enters its second year. Triumph in Kupiansk

could decide future lines of attack for both sides: If Russia succeeds in pushing Ukrainian forces west of the river, it would clear the path for a significant offensive farther south where the administrative borders of Luhansk and Donestk meet. If the Ukrainian defence holds up, it could reveal Russian vulnerabilities and enable a counteroffensive.

The Associated Press spoke about the fighting with generals, commanders and soldiers from three brigades in the Kupiansk area, as well as civilians in the

China purging ‘Western erroneous views’ from legal education

BEIJING, FEB 28 (AP): China has ordered closer adherence to the dictates of the ruling Communist Party and leader Xi Jinping in legal education, demanding that schools “oppose and resist Western erroneous views” such as constitutional government, separation of powers, and judicial independence.

The order was dated Sunday, a week before China’s ceremonial parliament begins its annual session and reinforces the leading role on ideology assumed by Xi, who is named no less than 25 times in the document.

Already China’s most powerful leader in decades, Xi was granted a third five-year term as party leader last year and has removed term limits on the presidency, effectively

People stand near a wall displaying the words “Xi Jinping rule of law ideology learning ground” in Beijing . allowing him to rule for life.

Similar directives have been issued in past, with students encouraged to report on professors who speak positively about Western concepts of governance.

Despite the intertwining of the Chinese and global economies, Xi has sought to purge liberal Western

concepts from the education system, ordered that foreign religions be “sinicized” in order to operate in China. He has also attempted, with limited success, to reorganize popular culture along more conservative lines, going so far as to ban “effeminate” men from the state broadcaster.

town affected by the grinding battles.

“The enemy is constantly increasing its efforts, but our troops are also increasing their efforts there,

Kim calls for unity to boost grain production

making timely replacements and holding the defence,” said Brig. Gen. Dmytro Krasylnkov, head of the Kharkiv military administration.

FlurryofdronestrikeshitsRussia

Regional officials in southern and western Russia reported a string of drone attacks near the border with Ukraine and deep inside the country that resulted in no casualties, as the war with Kyiv trudged on Tuesday.

At the same time, the hacking of Russian TV channels and radio stations as well as the temporary closure of St. Petersburg’s airport fed suspicion that Kyiv could be behind the disruption.

A flurry of drone attacks on Monday night and Tuesday morning targeted regions inside Russia along the border with Ukraine and deeper into the country, with one drone crashing just 100 kilometers (60 miles) away from Moscow, according to local Russian authorities.

A drone fell near the village of Gubastovo, roughly 100 kilometres southeast

of Moscow, Andrei Vorobyov, governor of the region surrounding the Russian capital, said in an online statement.

The drone didn’t inflict any damage, Vorobyov said. He didn’t specifically describe the drone as Ukrainian, but said that it likely targeted “a civilian infrastructure object.”

Russian forces early Tuesday shot down a Ukrainian drone over the Bryansk region, local Gov. Aleksandr Bogomaz said in a Telegram post. He said there were no casualties. Three drones also targeted Russia’s Belgorod region on Monday night, with one flying through an apartment window in its namesake capital, local authorities reported. Regional Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said the drones caused minor damage to buildings and cars but no casualties.

SEOUL, FEB 28 (AP):

North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un called for stronger public solidarity behind his leadership to increase the country’s grain production significantly, state media reported Tuesday, amid outside worries about the country’s worsened food insecurity.

Foreign experts say North Korea is experiencing a serious shortfall of food in the aftermath of COVID-19 border restrictions and a reported push for greater state control over grain supply. The experts say they’ve seen no signs of mass deaths or famine due to the shortfall.

During a ruling Workers’ Party meeting on Mon-

day, Kim expressed his government’s determination “to bring about a revolutionary turn in the agricultural production without fail,” according to the official Korean Central News Agency.

“Nothing is impossible as long as the strong leadership system is established in the whole party and there is the united might of all the people,” Kim was quoted as saying. KCNA didn’t elaborate on whether Kim presented any specific steps to boost grain production. Many observers say meaningful steps to produce more grain would require more purchases of fertilizer, pesticides and agricultural machinery, as North Korea devotes much of its scarce resources to advance its nuclear weapons program. North Korea’s chronic food shortage has likely deteriorated due to COVID-19 restrictions that choked off its external trade, persistent U.S.-led sanctions and its own mismanagement.

Suspected poisoning attacks rattle a shaken Iran

DUBAI, FEB 28 (AP):

Over the past three months, hundreds of young girls attending different schools in Iran have become overpowered by what are believed to be noxious fumes wafting into their classrooms, with some ending up weakened on hospital beds. Officials in Iran’s theocracy initially dismissed these incidents, but now describe them as intentional attacks involving some 30 schools identified in local media reports, with some speculating they could be aimed at trying to close schools for girls in this country of over 80 million people. The reported attacks come at a sensitive time for Iran, which already has faced months of protests after the September death of Mahsa Amini following her arrest by the country’s morality police.

Philippine leader Marcos urges military to focus on SCS

MANILA, FEB 28 (AP):

The Philippine president said the main mission of his country’s military has changed to ensure the protection of its territory as disputes with China and US-China rivalry intensify.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stressed the urgency of shifting the military’s focus to external defence in a speech before troops Monday afternoon.

He spoke two weeks after summoning China’s ambassador to protest the use of a military-grade laser by the Chinese coast guard that briefly blinded some of the crew of a Philippine patrol vessel in the South Chi-

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr (L) during his visit to an airbase in Lapu-Lapu City, central Philippines, on Monday.

na Sea (SCS).

The Philippines condemned the February 6. incident in one of the more

than 200 diplomatic protests it has filed against Beijing’s increasingly aggressive actions in the disputed water-

way since last year.

China has accused the Philippines of intruding into its territory and said its coast guard used a harmless laser to track the Philippine vessel. China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety.

“I’m saying that your mission in the AFP has changed,” Marcos told the troops, referring to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. “For many, many years, we were able to maintain that peace and maintain that understanding with all of our neighbours. Now things have begun to change and we must adjust accordingly.”

The authorities have not named suspects, but the attacks have raised fears that other girls could be poisoned apparently just for seeking an education — something that’s never been challenged before in the over 40 years since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iran itself also has been calling on the Taliban in neighbouring Afghanistan to have girls and women re-

turn to school.

The first cases emerged in late November in Qom, some 125 kilometres (80 miles) southwest of Iran’s capital, Tehran.

There, in a heartland of Shiite theologians and pilgrims, students at the Noor Yazdanshahr Conservatory fell ill in November. They then fell ill again in December.

Other cases followed,

with children complaining about headaches, heart palpitations, feeling lethargic or otherwise unable to move. Some described smelling tangerines, chlorine or cleaning agents.

At first, authorities didn’t link the cases. It’s winter in Iran, where temperatures often drop below freezing at night.

Many schools are heated by natural gas, leading to speculation it could be carbon monoxide poisoning affecting the girls. The country’s education minister initially dismissed the reports as “rumors.”

But the schools affected at first only taught young women, fuelling suspicion it wasn’t accidental. At least one case followed in Tehran, with others in Qom and Boroujerd. At least one boys’ school has been targeted as well.

China says it’s been ‘open and transparent’ on COVID origins

BEIJING, FEB 28 (AP):

China on Tuesday said it has been “open and transparent” in the search for the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic and dismissed U.S. criticism as politicising the issue.

China had “shared the most data and research results on virus tracing and made important contributions to global virus tracing research,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning Mao told reporters at a daily briefing. “Politicising the issue of virus tracing will not smear China but will only

Italy: Migrants paid 8,000 euros each for ‘voyage of death’

CROTONE, FEB 28 (AP):

Rescue teams pulled another body from the sea on Tuesday, bringing the death toll from Italy’s latest migration tragedy to 64, as prosecutors identified suspected smugglers who allegedly charged 8,000 euros (nearly $8,500) each for the “voyage of death” from Turkey to Italy.

Premier Giorgia Meloni sent a letter to European leaders demanding quick action to respond to the migration crisis, insisting that only way to deal with it seriously and humanely is to stop migrants from risking their lives on dangerous sea crossings.

“The point is, the more people who set off, the more people risk dying,” she told RAI state television late Monday.

At least 64 people, including eight children, died when their overcrowded

damage the U.S.’s own credibility,” Mao said, in response to complaints from U.S. officials and members of Congress that China has not been entirely cooperative. Her comments came amid continuing questions about how the virus that has killed more than 6.8 million people worldwide first emerged.

Most recently, the U.S. Department of Energy assessed with “low confidence” that the pandemic that was first detected in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019 began with

lies, as well as from Pakistan, Syria and Iraq. Rescue teams pulled one body from the sea on Tuesday morning, bringing the death toll to 64, said Andrea Mortato, of the firefighter divers unit.

Crotone prosecutor Giuseppe Capoccia confirmed investigators had identified three suspected smugglers, a Turk and two Pakistani nationals. A second Turk is believed to have escaped or died in the wreck.

Italy’s customs police said in a statement that crossing organizers charged 8,000 euros (around $8,500) each for the “voyage of death.”

week from Izmir, Turkey. Aid groups at the scene have said many of the passengers hailed from Afghanistan, including entire fami-

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi pushed back strongly at suggestions that the rescue was delayed or affected by government policy discouraging aid groups from staying at sea to rescue migrants.

the leak of a virus from a lab. The report hasn’t been made public. Others in the U.S. intelligence community disagree, citing differing opinions within the government.

“There is just not an intelligence community consensus,” John Kirby, the spokesman for the National Security Council, said Monday. The U.S. Energy Department’s conclusion was first reported over the weekend in the Wall Street Journal, which said the classified report was based on new intelligence and noted in an update to a 2021 document.

Thanks to Everyone Who Helped Find Our Missing Son

We would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who helped find our son Zhoyiu. We are very thankful that Zhoyiu is at home with us now. Words cannot describe the appreciation we have for all of you. There are so many individuals and organizations who were involved in the effort to find him that we know we will never be able to thank all of them enough. Best wishes to all and may God bless all abundantly.

A very big thank you to:

Kim Jong Un

wooden boat slammed into the shoals just a few hundred meters off Italy’s Calabrian coast and broke apart early Sunday in rough seas.

Eighty people survived, but dozens more are feared dead since survivors indicated the boat had carried about 170 people when it set off last

Firefighters search among debris washed ashore by sea at a beach near Cutro, southern Italy on Monday.

Priyanka plays an elite spy with no past memory in ‘Citadel’ first-look

Obesity in pregnancy more deadly for mother, baby: Study

Maternal obesity during pregnancy can turn to be fatal for both the mother as well as the baby, according to a new study.

Your low calorie drinks, food items may up heart attack, stroke risk

Tspy thriller series ‘Cit adel’ were unveiled recently and they show Priyanka Chopra Jonas in a deadly gun-toting avatar which she balances by setting the mercury on fire with her look. Her character is revealed to be an elite spy, Nadia Sinh in the show directed by Anthony Russo and Joseph Russo.

‘Citadel’ tells the story of the eponymous independent global spy agency which gets destroyed by operatives of Manticore as the former was tasked to uphold the safety and security of all people. Manticore is a powerful syndicate manipulating the world from the shadows.

With Citadel’s fall, elite agents Mason Kane (Richard Madden) and Nadia Sinh had their memories wiped as they narrowly escaped with their lives. They continue to be hidden from the world, building new lives under new identities, unaware of their pasts. Until one night, when Mason is tracked down by his former Citadel colleague, Bernard Orlick (Stanley Tucci), who desperately needs his help to prevent Manticore from establishing a new world order. Mason seeks out his

a mission that takes them around the world in an effort to stop Manticore, all while contending with a relationship built on secrets, lies, and a dangerous-yetundying love.

The series also stars Lesley Manville as Dahlia Archer, Osy Ikhile as Carter Spence, Ashleigh Cummings as Abby Conroy, Roland Moller as Anders Silje and Davik Silje and Caoilinn Springall as Hendrix Conroy.

‘Citadel’ has been executive produced by Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, Mike Larocca, Angela RussoOtstot, Scott Nemes for AGBO, Josh Appelbaum, Andre Nemec, Jeff Pinkner,

and Scott Rosenberg for Midnight Radio, Newton Thomas Sigel and Patrick Moran with David Weil serving as showrunner and executive producer.

The series will premiere on Prime Video on April 28, with two episodes, followed by a new episode released weekly every Friday through May 26. ‘Citadel’ and its subsequent series traverse the globe with interconnected stories. Each Citadel series is locally created, produced, and filmed in-region, and stars top talent, forming a distinct global franchise. Series are already underway in Italy and India, respectively, starring Matilda De Angelis, Varun Dhawan, and Samantha Ruth Prabhu. (IANS)

The findings, published in The Journal of Physiology, show that excess weight alters the structure of the placenta -- a vital organ that nourishes the baby in the mother’s womb -- more than poor glucose control in pregnancy.

The rates of obesity and gestational diabetes -- the development of poor glucose -- during pregnancy, are increasing worldwide.

While both are linked to multiple maternal and foetal complications, such as increased risk of foetal death, stillbirth, infant death and higher infant birth weight, it was not known yet how these complications arise. The study revealed that maternal obesity more than gestational diabetes reduced the formation of the placenta, its blood vessel density and surface area, and its capacity to exchange nutrients between the mother and developing child.

Both obesity and gestational diabetes impact placental hormone production and inflammation markers, suggest ing that the placenta is indeed functioning abnormally. The new insight enhances understanding about the mechanisms underlying poor pregnancy outcomes and the subsequent greater risk of poor neonatal and offspring health.

“As obesity and gestational diabetes often coexist, the study highlights the importance of obesity over gestational diabetes in modulating placental structure and function, and begins to piece together how these placental changes may explain observed complications (For example - intrauterine death and stillbirths) and increased future non-communicable disease risk for both mother and baby,” said Professor Mushi Matjila from the University of Cape Town.

Trying to switch to drinks and food that are low on calories and carbohydrate to avoid sugar? These are often loaded w ith an artificial sweetener called erythritol and can raise your risk of a major adverse cardiac event such as heart attack, stroke or death, warned a study.

Erythritol is about 70 per cent as sweet as sugar and is produced through corn fermentation and often mixed to sweeten stevia, monk fruit or add bulk to low-calorie products. The artificial sweetener is also used as a common replacement for table sugar and is often recommended for people who have obesity, diabetes or metabolic syndrome and are looking for options to help manage their sugar or calorie intake.

After ingestion, erythritol is poorly metabolised by the body. Instead, it goes into the bloodstream and leaves the body mainly through urine. The human body creates low amounts

of erythritol naturally, so any additional consumption can accumulate. Researchers from Cleveland Clinic in the US also found that erythritol, when added to whole blood or isolated platelets was found to make platelets easier to activate and form a clot.

The findings, published in the journal Nature Medicine, are based on a study of more than 4,000 people in the US and Europe.

“Our study shows that when participants consumed an artificially sweetened beverage with

an amount of erythritol found in many processed foods, markedly elevated levels in the blood are observed for days -- levels well above those observed to enhance clotting risks,” said Stanley Hazen, from Lerner Research Institute at Cleveland Clinic.

“It is important that further safety studies are conducted to examine the long-term effects of artificial sweeteners in general, and erythritol specifically, on risks for heart attack and stroke, particularly in people at higher risk for cardiovascular disease. (IANS)

(IANS)

Kiwis edge Eng by 1 run in Test cricket thriller

WELLINGTON, FEB 28

(AP): Tim Southee’s New Zealand team earned two places in international cricket history with its dramatic, one-run comeback win over England in the second test.

It was only the fourth team after England (in 1894 and 1981) and India (in 2001) to win a test match after being forced to followon and only the second after the West Indies to win by a margin of one run.

New Zealand also was part of one of the most tense final days of a test match when at various times both teams had victory in their grasp and even a rare tie seemed possible. At the start of Day 5, a New Zealand win seemed the most unlikely of all possible scenarios: it had lost the series-opening match by 267 runs and been forced to follow-on 226 runs behind in the second test.

New Zealand was depleted: its bowling lineup depended heavily on the new ball pair of Tim Southee and Matt Henry in the absence of Trent Boult and Kyle Jamieson.

Neil Wagner had been demoted from the new ball role he had in the first test but it was the pugnacious bowler who had the fore -

most role on the last day when he took four wickets and held three catches.

New Zealand now can rest after saving its unbeaten run in test series at home which stretches back to 2017.

England will return home to regroup for the Ashes series against Australia in July. But it no longer is heading into that series with almost juggernaut momentum after coming to the end of a six-test winning streak.

On a day of constant twists and turns Tuesday, Joe Root scored 95 in a partnership of 121 with Ben Stokes (33) which appeared to have secured England’s victory and a 2-0 win in the two-match series.

Villarreal beats Getafe, ends losing run in Spanish league

Root and Stokes were out within a run of each other with 56 runs still needed and the match which had been heading England’s way tilted back in favor of New Zealand with seven wickets down.

Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes then made 35, facing down the New Zealand attack and shepherding the tailenders to get England within seven runs of victory before his dismissal triggered another twist.

No. 11 James Anderson clubbed a boundary off Wagner which left England two runs from a match and series victory. Then in the last, dramatic moment, Anderson was caught down the leg side by a diving Tom

Blundell from the bowling of Wagner.

In a defining comeback for Wagner and his shortpitch bowling, he returned figures of 4-62 and was instrumental in the win.

“It’s a special win this and we’ll celebrate what is an amazing achievement,” Wagner said. “I think it’s just the character of the team. We love to fight for one another, find a way and keep on doing the hard yards out there.”

The grassy banks of Wellington’s Basin Reserve were crowded on a workday Tuesday to see the denouement of an already extraordinary match.

For the second time in the series, Stokes made an assertive first innings declaration with England 435-9. England then bowled out New Zealand for only 209 to take a 226-run first innings lead. Stokes chose to enforce the follow-on with his attack having bowled 53.2 overs and the second innings became an ordeal as Kane Williamson made 132 and New Zealand batted more than 160 overs to post 483, setting England 258 to win.

England came into the final day at 48-1, still need-

ing 210 runs but with the odds on its side and 103 overs in the day. Under Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum and the so-called Bazball approach to the game, England has won six tests while chasing, notably scoring 378 to beat India at Birmingham last year. But when New Zealand took four wickets in the first hour, the equilibrium of the match was disturbed. England lost nightwatchman Ollie Robinson, Ben Duckett and then Ollie Pope and Harry Brook -- run out without facing a ball — to slip to 80-5.

Brook’s wicket was crucial after he made 186 in the first innings for his fourth century in five tests.

Root and Stokes seemed to have repaired the England innings but Wagner’s double blow to dismiss them both in consecutive overs was yet another turning point. Foakes’ diligent innings ensured a thrilling finish as the upper hand in the match passed moment by moment from one team to the other. Even England’s Barmy Army of fans was largely rendered silent as they watched the action in almost breathless tension. (AP)

Life-size statue of Tendulkar to come up at Wankhede

MUMBAI, FEB 28 (PTI):

In his own words, life has come full circle for Sachin Tendulkar, who is set to be honoured with a life-size statue at the Wankhede Stadium, the place where it all began for him.

The cricket icon’s journey started here under childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar, and it was at this very venue that he won the World Cup with India in 2011. He also bid adieu to cricket at the same ground, by playing in his landmark 200th Test against the West Indies in 2013.

The statue is expected to be unveiled when he turns 50 on April 24.

“I started my cricketing journey representing Mumbai. India winning the World Cup in 2011 remains the biggest moment in my life. My last match representing India, was very memorable, and that happened in Mumbai as well,” Tendulkar told PTI.

“Life has come a full circle for me at Wankhede, which has been witness to some very special moments. When the Mumbai Cricket Association suggested about

India thinking of simulating English conditions

INDORE, FEB 28 (PTI): India are on course to reach their second straight World Test Championship final and if they end up winning here, a pace-friendly track could be laid out in the final game of the series in Ahmedabad to prepare for the summit clash in London in June.

Before the start of the Border-Gavaskar trophy, India needed to beat Australia 3-0 or 3-1 to qualify for the WTC final and keep the destiny in their own hands.

India skipper Rohit Sharma doesn’t want to jump the gun but, ahead of the third Test beginning at the Holkar Stadium on Wednesday, he said the team has already spoken about simulating English conditions in the fourth and final game against Australia.

MADRID, FEB 28 (AP):

Samuel Chukwueze scored and assisted as Villarreal came from behind to defeat relegation-threatened Getafe 2-1 and end a four-game losing streak in the Spanish league.

Chukwueze scored in the 44th minute and set up José Luis Morales in the 52nd after Enes Unal put the visitors ahead in the ninth on Monday.

The win moved Villarreal to seventh place, closer to the European classifica-

Bumrah ruled out of IPL

MUMBAI, FEB 28 (PTI):

Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the IPL after failing to fully recover from his back injury and is unlikely to make a comeback in the next six months, a BCCI source told PTI on Tuesday.

It’s yet to be ascertained if the seasoned pacer, who also missed the T20 World Cup in Australia last year, would require a back surgery. “Bumrah has been ruled out of the IPL as he will take another six months to come back. Even then, he might or might not make a comeback. The 50-over World Cup is the target, but that is also not guaranteed,” the BCCI source said.

The development means that Bumrah will miss the World Test Championship final (if India qualify), which starts on June 7 at The Oval. Bumrah was initially named in India’s T20 World Cup squad. The IPL is starting on March 31, and Bumrah has been the lead pacer for Mumbai Indians for many seasons now.

tion spots.

Villarreal’s last win was in January against Girona. It lost to Rayo Vallecano, last-placed Elche, Barcelona and Mallorca since then, being outscored 9-3.

Getafe could have left the relegation zone with a win. The Madrid club stayed second-to-last, two points from safety.

Barcelona has a sevenpoint lead over Real Madrid at the top of the standings after 23 rounds.

There is a strong possibility that India might end up facing Australia in the WTC final.

“It will be a different ball game (facing Australia in England) for both teams, actually. There is definitely a possibility of that (Ahmedabad as preparatory game for WTC final). We have already spoken about it. We need to get the guys ready for it,” Rohit said in a media interaction.

The WTC final will be played at The Oval in London from June 7-11, right after the IPL. Rohit Sharma

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

said Shardul Thakur becomes an important member of the side in overseas conditions.

“The important one is Shardul Thakur, because he comes into the planning for us. We don’t know how ready he is since he has just got married (laughs). We don’t know how many overs he has bowled. But that thought process is definitely there.

“If we get the result we want here (Indore), we might think of doing something different in Ahmedabad for sure.

“But we are not there yet. We have to win this game and then talk about it. That’ll be the right thing to do,” he said.

“You are never in on these wickets”

India are well on their way to their 16th straight series win at home. Rohit feels reaching the WTC final will be a big achievement for his team, as winning even at home has not been easy.

“Yes there are home conditions but they are challenging conditions; it is not easy for the batters to score runs consistently.” Australia have collapsed in the second innings of both the Tests and Rohit said it shows how hard it is to play in Indian conditions.

“Yeah....that’s the beauty of this game and the pitches we are playing on. It can happen to us as well, not just them. I played 200 balls in Nagpur and never felt set. It just takes one ball to grip or keep low and you are out. On pitches like this, you are never in.

“Yes, we have quality spinners who can change things around just like that but that does not give us the guarantee that we are going to win the Test or roll them over in one session. We have got to keep the discipline going,” he said.

Rohit promised that the spinners will keep coming at the Australians relentlessly as the visitors look to find ways to slow down the momentum generated by Ashwin and Co.

“It comes very naturally to (Ravindra) Jadeja. Sometimes it is difficult as captain. If you want to push a fielder a couple of yards behind, Jadeja is already running in. It is a very valid

Acknowledgement

Born on : 16.12.1954 Died on : 22.02.2023

YANSHUMTHUNG KITHAN

07.09.1943 – 22.02.2023

The family of Late Yanshumthung Kithan express our profound gratitude for the overwhelming love and support that was shown to us following our sad loss.

We express our sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone who stood and supported us through prayers, material, financial help and physical presence during the prolonged illness till his demise on 22nd February 2023.

We regret and apologize for our inability to acknowledge each and everyone individually. Yet, it is our humble and sincere prayer that God will bless each one of you abundantly and beyond.

DP-799/23

Loving Wife, Children, In-laws and Grandchildren

We, the bereaved family of Lt. Khunito Chophy would like to express our deep appreciation to every individuals, friends, neighbours, churches who stood and supported us physically, financially and spiritually during his prolonged illness till his demise. Your deeds helped us and made our loss more bearable.

We convey our special gratitude to :

1. Thahekhu Village Baptist Church BI-7, Fellowship

2. Thahekhu Village Baptist Church

3. Alaphumi Union Dimapur

4. Alaphumi Village Baptist Church

5. Guwahati Sumi Students Union (GSSU)

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

DP-797/23

Loving Wife, Children and Relatives

my statue at Wankhede, I was pleasantly surprised.

“I’ve always taken a lot of pride in representing Mumbai cricket, and my wonderful association with the MCA continues today as well. I’m very grateful to them for this kind of gesture,” he added.

The announcement was earlier done by Mumbai Cricket Association president Amol Kale on the side-

point. You don’t want to give the opposition time to think what they want to do. These are small tactical things that are very important,” said Rohit.

Having scored the only hundred of the series, Rohit is expecting more runs from the top order and wants the lower-order comprising Jadeja, Axar Patel and Ashwin to carry on in the same vein.

“Last game specifically after 139 for seven, to get to 260 was a great effort. In this team, Axar, Jadeja and Ashwin bat in the lower order but Axar when he plays domestic cricket he bats at five. They all are quality batters. It doesn’t matter whether runs come from top or lower order, the end result for the team is what matters. We are in a stage we can create that depth in our batting.

“Yes the runs have not come from the top order as expected but the quality they bring to the table that is what matters to us,” said the skipper.

“Test matches should be organised everywhere in country”

The crowd turnout in the first two Tests made a good advert for Test cricket and a big crowd is expected too on day one of the third Test here.

lines of Tendulkar’s visit to the Wankhede on Tuesday. Tendulkar is regarded as one of the game’s all-time greats, thanks to his incredible career that spanned 24 years and during which he broke a plethora of records. The cricket icon already has a stand named after him at the Wankhede. He also has a wax statue of him at Madame Tussauds in London.

First-of-its-kind ultra cycling race to begin today

The cycle race will be from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.

SRINAGAR, FEB 28

(PTI): A new chapter in the sport of ultra cycling will be written as Asia’s longest cycle race, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, will be flagged off on Wednesday.

“This is the first-of-itskind race in not only India but in Asia, which will cover a distance of 3655 kilometres from Kashmir to Kanyakumari,” director of the ultra cycling project, Jitendra Nayak, told reporters here.

The race has been accorded the status of Asian Ultracycling Championship by the World Ultracycling Association (WUCA), Nayak said.

“The cyclists who complete this race will automatically qualify for the World event,” he added.

Nayak said the idea to

hold an ultra cycling race came after several cyclists from India participated in these events held in the west and the far east.

“It is a very expensive affair to participate in the races held in the west. So the idea was to allow the cyclists from India to participate in ultracycling events which are affordable. It will cost only 1/10th what it takes to participate in races abroad,” he added.

Nayak said 12 solo cyclists, including one female racer, and four teams of four players, will take part in the race.

Race director Vivitt Walve said there are 12 time stations along the route.

“Each station is placed between 200 to 400 kilometres.” He said all riders are tracked using GPS devices.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Lt. John Kent

Died on 1st Feb 2023

"A Son, A Brother, An Uncle and A Friend"

We the family of Lt. John Kent would like to thank and acknowledge the many expression of sympathy, love, gestures of kindness and empathy shown to us during his sudden demise. We would also like to give special thanks to :-

- CRC Chumukedima Town

- OTS Principal and community

- OTS MDiv classmates 2021

- Tseminyu Union Dimapur

- All Neighbours n friends.

To all who helped in any ways, your love and support made our lose more bearable. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

k-391/23

Tim Southee, center, celebrates with teammates after talking the wicket of England’s Ollie Robinson. (AP/PTI)

Sachin Tendulkar visits Wankhede Stadium to finalise the location of his life-size statue at the stadium. (PTI)

Raul Albiol of Villarreal passes the ball whilst under pressure from Enes Unal of Getafe. GETTY IMAGES

Rohit Sharma (PTI)

FIFA awards: Messi, Putellas voted best players

PARIS, FEB 28 (AP):

World Cup champion Lionel Messi edged Kylian Mbappé again, this time to take FIFA’s best men’s player award.

The best women’s player was Spain’s Alexia Putellas for a second straight year.

After steering Argentina to World Cup glory in an epic final against Mbappé’s France last year in Qatar, Messi won the best player vote against Mbappé and Karim Benzema and secured the FIFA prize for the seventh time in 14 years on Monday night.

He won the World Cup at his record-equaling fifth attempt.

“It was a crazy year for me,” Messi said. “I could fulfil my (World Cup) dream after fighting for it for so long. And in the end it happened, and it was the most beautiful thing of my career. It’s the dream of every player, but very few can achieve it, so I’m thankful to God for being able to do it.”

The three players made the final shortlist in voting

by a global panel of national team captains and coaches, selected journalists in each of FIFA’s 211 member countries, plus fans online.

The 35-year-old Messi also beat Mbappé — who was seeking his first best player award from FIFA — to the Golden Ball trophy awarded by FIFA for the World Cup’s best player. Mbappé earned the Golden Boot as top scorer. In the FIFA Awards vote, Messi had 52 points, Mbappé 44, and Benzema

34. Mbappé, 11 years younger than Messi at 24 and considered Messi’s heir apparent on the world stage, made the three-man shortlist for the first time. He was fourth in voting for the 2018 award, the year he led France to the World Cup title. Real Madrid star Benzema won the more prestigious Ballon d’Or in October ahead of the World Cup. The France forward missed the tournament because

of injury. Messi was not on the long list of Ballon d’Or candidates announced in August. Robert Lewandowski won the FIFA award the last two years, and Cristiano Ronaldo was left off the 14-player shortlist for the award this year for the first time.

Messi broke a record he shared with Ronaldo by making the men’s world best XI for the 16th time.

The team included Belgium’s Thibaut Courtois, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Portugal’s João Cancelo, Dutchman Virgil van Dijk, Belgium’s Kevin de Bruyne, Croatia’s Luka Modric, Brazil’s Casemiro, Norway’s Erling Haaland and France’s Mbappé and Benzema.

Earlier Monday, French prosecutors opened a preliminary investigation into a rape accusation against Hakimi, a defender at Paris Saint-Germain.

Messi voted for former Barcelona teammate Neymar as his choice for best player. Only Brazil captain Thiago Silva also voted on

Neymar. Russia’s coach and captain were not banned from voting in the award.

Putellas won her award from Alex Morgan of the United States and Beth Mead, who led England to the European Championship title in 2022.

Barcelona playmaker Putellas made the top three again despite being injured days before the Euro and missing the tournament. She scored 34 goals across all competitions last season.

Mead was the joint top scorer at the Euro, and was named the tournament’s best player. She sustained a serious knee injury in November while playing for Arsenal and could miss the Women’s World Cup in July in Australia and New Zealand.

Morgan, who was second in the 2019 vote to teammate Megan Rapinoe, was player of the tournament when the U.S. won the CONCACAF W Championship last year. She was also the joint top scorer.

Alaba abused, Croatia coach critical following FIFA awards

GENEVA, FEB 28 (AP):

Real Madrid defender

David Alaba was racially abused on social media after voting for Lionel Messi, and Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic accused FIFA of disrespect on Tuesday in fallout from the soccer body’s annual awards ceremony.

Messi was named the best men’s player on Monday after leading Argentina to last year’s World Cup title in Qatar, with Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema in third place after a standout season helping Madrid to another Champions League title. The awards were decided by a poll of national team captains and coaches, selected media and fans voting online from candidate lists decided by FIFAappointed expert panels.

Alaba’s vote as captain of Austria’s national team -- placing Messi first, Madrid teammate Benzema second and Kylian Mbappé, the eventual

French officials probe rape accusation against Hakimi F1, Tottenham team up for kart track at stadium

PARIS, FEB 28 (AP):

French prosecutors have opened a preliminary investigation into a rape accusation against Paris SaintGermain defender Achraf Hakimi, a judicial official said on Monday.

The investigation is being led by the prosecutor’s office in the Paris suburb of Nanterre, the official said.

The official would not provide details about the accusation or comment on media reports about what allegedly happened. The official was not authorized to

be publicly named speaking about an ongoing investigation.

PSG officials did not respond to requests for comment, and Hakimi has not publicly responded to the accusation.

LONDON, FEB 28 (AP): Formula One and Premier League soccer club Tottenham have formed a partnership to build race tracks for karting at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

As part of the 15-year partnership announced Tuesday, electric karting tracks for children and adults will be built underneath the South Stand of the stadium in London, which has also hosted NFL games.

“The karting experience will be a destination and place that families, friends and aspiring drivers from all over the world

will want to visit and enjoy, engaging new audiences and offering an accessible entry point to the world of motorsport,” F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said in a statement.

The track will be part of a wider program to encourage people from different backgrounds with a driver academy, apprenticeships for local people and educational events in

schools highlighting careers in areas like software development and engineering.

F1 has been trying to

improve its record on diversity in recent years and is launching the F1 Academy, a development series for women, this year with a first race in April.

The sport’s only Black driver, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, has made diversity a personal priority and founded a commission to research ways to improve the representation of Black people in the auto racing industry in Britain, where most F1 teams are based. Several F1 teams, including Hamilton’s Mercedes team, have their own initiatives to make the sport more diverse.

runner-up, in third -- was among the results published by FIFA after the ceremony in Paris.

That choice provoked anger from Madrid fans and others because Alaba, who is Black, voted for Messi, who spent 17 seasons at Barcelona, Real Madrid’s biggest rival.

“The Austrian national team vote for this award as a team, not me alone,” Alaba wrote on his social media accounts. “Everyone in the team council is able to vote and that’s how it’s decided.

Dalic said Tuesday he

refused to vote in protest at a perceived lack of respect for himself and his team, which eliminated Brazil before losing to Argentina in the World Cup semifinals.

“I am disappointed with FIFA’s attitude towards the Croatian national team because I strongly maintain that, based on everything we’ve achieved as a national team, we deserve more respect from the head governing body of world football than we have received,” the coach said in a statement published by the Croatian soccer federation.

India among 8 direct qualifiers for Women’s T20 WC 2024

DUBAI, FEB 28 (PTI):

India, by virtue of finishing inside the top-three in their group in the recently concluded Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa, are among the eight automatic qualifiers for the 2024 edition of the tournament scheduled in Bangladesh.

The top-three teams in each of the two group of the World Cup automatically made the cut along with hosts Bangladesh and Pakistan who were ranked the highest outside the top-six direct qualifiers.

Australia, New Zealand and South Africa qualified from Group 1, while England, India and the West Indies made it from Group 2.

Sri Lanka and Ireland are the only teams to have failed to qualify from the recently-held T20 World Cup.

Sri Lanka are currently ranked eighth in the rankings while Ireland are 10th. A global qualifier in early 2024 will determine the remaining two available spots, an ICC release stated.

Lionel Messi and Alexia Putellas at the ceremony of the Best FIFA Football Awards in Paris, France, Monday.

David Alaba Zlatko Dalic

Achraf Hakimi