17 Jan 2023

Nagaland

preparing for a drawn-out war in Ukraine

Govt admits multiple side-effects of Covid-19 vaccines in RTI reply

MUMBAI, JAN 16 (IANS):

In a shocking revelation about the Government’s two top watchdogs have admitted to ‘multiple side-effects’ of Covid-19 vaccines that were administered to over a billion Indians in the past more than two years. The shocking revelations of ‘multiple sideeffects’ of the coronavirus vaccine were made by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) when they replied to an RTI filed by Pune businessman Prafful Sarda.

India has permitted AstraZenaca and Serum Institute of India, Pune’s ‘Covishield’ and SII’s own ‘Covovax’; vaccines of three Hyderabad-based companies -- the government-run Bharat Biotech Ltd.’s ‘Covaxin’, Dr. Reddy’s Lab imported ‘Sputnik V’, Biological E. Ltd.’s ‘CorBEvax’, and later, Cadila Healthcare Ltd., Ahmedabad’s ‘ZyCov-D’ only for teenagers (12-17 age), reported IANS.

In a specific query by Sarda on the side-effects of all these jabs, the ICMR’s PIO Dr. Leyanna Susan George and CDSCO’s PIO Sushanta Sarkar, have cited a plethora of ramifications arising out of all these vaccines comprising their FAQs.

Covishield side-effects: According to a report by IANS, Covishield takes the lion’s share of its aftereffects on the jabbed masses -- injection site tenderness or pain, multiple red spots or bruises beyond the injected site, persistent vomiting without reasons, severe or persistent abdominal pains or headaches with or without vomiting, shortness of

Govenor extends Mimkut greetings

DIMAPUR, JAN 16

(NPN): Nagaland Governor, Prof. Jagdish Mukhi has extended Mimkut greetings to the Kuki community and the people of Nagaland.

He said the “festival express exhilaration and triumphant over the harvest of Mim (Maize) which is the last harvest crop of the season.”

During the celebration, Mukhi said the Kuki community exhibits their magnificent traditions and customs, their ethnic culture are also expressed through art work that represent their roots. “This festival is also a time to remember the loss of our loved ones,” he added.

breath, chest pains, pain in limbs or swelling on pressing of calf/arms, weakness/ paralysis of limbs of any particular side or parts of the body, including cranial nerves, unprecedented seizures, pain in eyes, blurred vision or diplopia, change in mental status, encephalopathy or depressed level of consciousness.

Side-effects of Covovax: Covovax side-effects are injection site pain/tenderness/induration, fatigue, malaise, headaches, fever, soreness of muscles, joint pains, nausea or vomiting, chills, body-ache or extreme pain in limbs, Asthenia (weakness or lack of energy), Injection site pruritus (itching, rash, red skin, hives), enlarged lymph nodes, back pains, and rarely dizziness or drowsiness, reported IANS Side effects of Covaxin, Sputnik V, CorBEvax: Covaxin displays mild symptoms AEFIs like injection site pain/swelling, headaches, fatigue, fever, bodyache, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, giddiness, tremors, sweating, cold and cough.

Sputnik V manifests with chills, fever, arthralgia, myalgia, asthenia, headaches, general discomfort,

injection site pain/swelling/ hyperaemia, or nausea, dyspepsia, loss of appetite, or occasional enlarged regional lymph nodes.

CorBEvax shows effects like fever/pyrexia, headaches, fatigue, body pains, myalgia, nausea, or arthralgia, urticaria, chills, lethargy, besides injection site pain/erythema, swelling, rash, pruritis or irritation.

“The replies by ICMRCDSCO are blatantly shocking. Though the government has declared that “vaccination is totally voluntary”, why was the compulsion created indirectly by barring people from travelling in buses, trains, flights, interstate movements, going out to hotels, restaurants, multiplexes, malls, etc. This trapped more and more panicked people into getting themselves jabbed without knowing the after-effects,” Sarda told IANS.

Sarda also asked the government to release the data on whether the media, hospitals, and vaccination centres did adequate publicity on all these possible side-effects and if the health ministry initiated any public safety campaigns for the gullible masses, now that vaccine-related deaths are

Poll schedule for 3 NE states to be

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (IANS): The schedule for the assembly election in three North Eastern states -- Tripura, Nagaland and Meghalaya -- is likely to be announced by January 19 by the Election Commission in Delhi, officials said on Monday.

A senior official said that the full election commission headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar last week (January 11 to 14) visited the three North Eastern states and held a series of meetings with the political parties and state, central

security and civil officials, especially the district level officials of the three states in the respective state capitals.

“The full EC would meet in Delhi and then likely announce the assembly election schedule for three North Eastern states by Thursday,” the official told IANS, refusing to be quoted.

The five-year term of assemblies of Nagaland, Meghalaya and Tripura would end on March 12, March 15 and March 22, respectively, and before that period, new assemblies have to be constituted.

being reported in India and worldwide.

Sarda cited how India had donated crores of free vaccines -- leading to an uproar in 2021 -- to many poor countries worldwide and questioned whether all the potential complications of the jabs were brought to the notice of the people in those nations.

“All the global agencies have set the benchmark that only those vaccine candidates that show an efficacy of at least 50-60 per cent will be considered. Most of the vaccines have shown the efficacy of 70-90 per cent within the short period of two or three months of observation. More than 100 crore people have received at least a single dose of Covid-19 vaccine and the proportion of side effects is very low,” the government has assured, reported IANS.

After the initial massvaccinations, mostly free was completed, from August 2022, the government has permitted conditional market sales of Covishield and Covaxin but the others -- Sputnik V and CorBEvax -- remain specifically for “restricted emergency use”, as per the RTI.

Meanwhile, the number of cases of COVID-19’s XBB.1.5 variant, responsible for the rise in cases in the US, has gone up to 26 in India, according to INSACOG data on Monday.. The cases of XBB.1.5 variant have been found across 11 states and Union territories till now, including Delhi, Maharashtra and West Bengal, the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) said.

Oppn parties question need for remote voting

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): Opposition parties on Monday questioned the need to deploy remote voting machines and urged the Election Commission to address the issue of urban apathy towards the poll process.

“No opposition party wants to see the demonstration of a Remote Voting Machine (RVM). First the issue of the need to have such a machine should be settled,” senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh told reporters after participating in a meeting of political parties convened by the Election Commission (EC) for the demonstration of the workings of an RVM.

Singh said he felt that there would be no RVM demonstration till there is a consensus on having one. No political party is prepared to see the demonstration, he said. “The idea of RVM is not acceptable,” Singh said and added that the commission should address concerns about electronic voting ma-

chines raised by eminent citizens of the country. The EC should also address the issue of urban apathy towards the election process, the Congress leader said.

The poll panel had invited representatives of eight national and 57 recognised state parties for an RVM demonstration here. The commission has maintained that RVMs, developed by public sector undertaking Electronics Corporation of India, will be a stand alone

device not connected to the internet in any way.

The initiative, if implemented, can lead to a “social transformation” for migrants, the EC had said last month.

Each machine can handle up to 72 constituencies, allowing migrant voters to cast their votes from a remote polling booth. Parties were also asked to give in writing their views by the end of January on issues such as changes required in the law

to allow the use of RVMs. EC, when announcing the decision to rollout the machine, had said: “Migration based disenfranchisement is indeed not an option in the age of technological advancement. The voter turnout in General Elections 2019 was 67.4 % and the Election Commission of India is concerned about the issue of over 30 crore electors not exercising their franchise and also differential voter turnout in various states/UTs.”

On Sunday, leaders of most Opposition parties decided to oppose the EC’s proposal on RVMs after a meeting facilitated by the Congress. The meeting was attended by leaders of JD(U), Shiv Sena, CPI, CPI(M), National Conference, JMM, PDP, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, Revolutionary Socialist Party, Indian Union Muslim League, as well as Independent Rajya Sabha MP and former Congress leader Kapil Sibal.

Defer polls to secure one solution: TNR

DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): Joining the chorus of demands for early solution by deferment of polls, The Naga Rising (TNR) which is a part of RPP, has suggested that Naga stakeholders– NSCN (I-M) and WC, NNPGs– be given some time to work out a single solution as desired by Nagas and the government of India.

This was contained in a statement issued by TNR convener Along Longkumer and secretary Khriezo Yhome.

The duo also suggested that the BJP led government at the Centre under the leadership of Prime

Minister Narendra Modi take the political initiative to defer the elections to a later date in consultation with Election Commission of India (ECI).

They said the cry for solution before the next Assembly election in Nagaland was a genuine which has the support of all sections of people.

TNR also claimed that all political parties, including those in the government, and key stakeholders led by tribe hohos were also in favour of a solution first.

They said the only thing that was seen as an impediment to solution was that both Naga negotiating

parties, including the Centre, were unable to come to a meeting point.

TNR also noted that, in a significant development, NNPGs and NSCN (I-M), at a recent meeting had declared “unconditional commitment” to collaborate for the resolution of Naga historical and political rights with the Central government.

TNR referred to the January 14 declaration by representatives of NNPGs and NSCN (I-M) at the initiative of Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR): for “…unconditional commitment to collaborate on the basis of our respective

Khango’s group urged to accept olive branch

DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): NSCN/GPRN (K) led by acting president Luyangba Yimkhiung and ato kilonser Isak Sumi Monday claimed that its set-up was intact with all branches and agencies functioning smoothly, and said that any order/directive from the impeached president Khango Konyak was null and void.

In a press note, MIP stated that NSCN/GPRN held its cabinet council meeting under the leadership of Luyangba and Isak on Monday to asses and take stock of the internal crisis developed out of the “self-styled and unconstitutional” action of the impeached president and his accomplices. It said NSCN/GPRN being the people’s government had always respected and heeded

to people’s wishes and maintained maximum restraint and “offered olive branch” to the impeached president several times but in vain.

It advised the impeached president and his accomplices to stop issuing unauthorised and cheap propaganda maligning the organisation’s image for their personal agenda and rather accept the olive branch for the sake of the Nagas if there was even a drop of patriotic blood left in them.

MIP said that the impeached president and his accomplices ignoring the appeal from several corners for reconciliation was inborn to their character. The group accused them of resorting to mudslinging, creating confusion by issuing random and illegal or-

ders belittling its name, glory and the pioneers who had sacrificed everything to uphold the Naga political struggle and the group.

NSCN also reiterated what was enshrined since its inception and was still the guiding beacon of all its members: “No one is above nation, no one is above righteousness and no one is above National Socialist Council.” The house reaffirmed its unflinching support to the collective leadership along with all party workers, Naga Army and regions with the exception of few misguided functionaries. It further directed all its sensible workers to maintain calm and uphold the yezahbo and not be swayed or get intimated by unofficial and dictatorial diktats by the “disgraced” president.

Must win all 9 state polls in 2023: Nadda at BJP natl executive

NEW DELHI, JAN 16

(PTI): BJP president J P Nadda on Monday underlined the importance of the nine state assembly polls to be held this year in the run up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, and asked the party’s national executive to ensure it does not lose in any state.

Briefing reporters on Nadda’s address to the BJP national executive meeting underway in Delhi, party leader and former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the party president noted that the ongoing year was very important in the prelude to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. BJP has been putting in place a number

of exercises to strengthen its organisation to ensure that it comes back to power in 2024 at the Centre for a third term. Nadda, in his closed-door address, lauded India’s progress under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government.

It has become the world’s fifth-largest economy, second-largest manufacturer of mobile phones, third-largest manufacturer in the auto sector while the highway being built every day has risen to 37 km from 12 km earlier, the party president said. The country has also worked to empower the poor with a number of welfare schemes, including

that of free grains, he added.

Nadda praised the party’s win in the recent Gujarat assembly polls as “extraordinary and historic”, saying winning more than 150 seats in the 182-member assembly is a great achievement.

While the party lost in Himachal Pradesh to the Congress, the vote gap

between the two parties was less than one per cent, he said. Top leaders - including union ministers, chief ministers, deputy chief ministers - are attending the crucial party gathering in the national capital.

Nodiscussiononextension ofNadda’stenure:Nirmala

Amid speculations about the extension of the tenure of BJP national president JP Nadda, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said that no discussions took place in this regard on the first day of the National Executive meeting of the party. It was speculated ahead of the meeting

that Nadda, whose threeyear term as the party chief is scheduled to conclude on January 20 this year, would get another term as the party president in view of the Lok Sabha elections 2024.

Addressing a press conference, Sitharaman said: “Today a briefing has been held on how the activities of the 4 states are progressing which include Tripura, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Karnataka,” she said. When asked if the extension of Nadda’s tenure was discussed during the meeting, the Minister said, “No discussion was held on that. Today the political proposal has been discussed.”

agreements, with immediate effect, for the resolution of the Naga historical and political rights with the Government of India.”

Arguing against the ECI’s stand that elections were a constitutional obligation reiterated by the CEC at the recent meeting in Kohima, TNR said to its understanding, “holding of regular elections can be stopped by means of a constitutional amendment in consultation with the Election Commission.”

TNR claimed that interruptions of regular elections were acceptable in extraordinary circumstances and also

DC Kohima issues order on encroachment of NHs

DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): In the interest of public safety and order, deputy commissioner (DC) Kohima Shanavas C has prohibited permanent and temporary structures and activities that encroached National Highways (NHs) with immediate effect.

In an order dated January 12, the DC warned that necessary action would be initiated against those violating the order under the ‘Control of National Highways (Land & Traffic) Act, 2002’. The order noted that due to the encroachment of the national highways by street vendors, hawkers, etc, smooth vehicle traffic flow and pedestrian movement had been greatly affected.

DC said that NHs were being encroached upon through construction of permanent and temporary structures by individuals/parties, causing grave concern for road safety and future road upgrade projects, besides posing dangers like road accidents, stampede, etc.

NHAI implementing ATMS on highways to reduce accidents

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Monday said Advance Traffic Management System (ATMS) is being implemented on national highways and expressways for managing incidents of road crashes and enforcement of speed limit and other regulations on highways.

NHAI said ATMS has been implemented for around 3,000 kilometre of national highways. Further, NHAI said ATMS is also being installed on projects under implementation such as Delhi-Mumbai Express-

way.NHAI is also looking at leveraging GIS technology for analyzing drone videos and Network Survey Vehicle data for identifying safety issues on highways, it added. The statement also said NHAI is focusing on training to enhance engineering measures for improving road safety. It is imparting a mandatory 15-day road safety audit training to its engineers. According to the statement, the completion of training has been made a key criterion for the promotion of engineers to the post of manager and deputy general manager.

Kremlin

Nadal, Swiatek, Medvedev advance at Australian Open

announced by Jan 19

BJP president J.P. Nadda

“Even before election is declared we have an injury here. I shudder to think what’ll happen after campaign starts?”

(Representational image)

DIMAPUR: Thunyio Committee Shamator Town and Pungro-based Civil Society Organisations celebrated Tsungkamneo festival also known as Neoto-Neo which means Chief Festival of Festivals of Yimkhiung Tribe on January 16 at local ground, Shamator and Pungro.

At Shamator, the celebration was graced by Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) advisor, Yanba Showuba as the special guest.

A press release by Thuneo committee chairman Lato stated that speaking on the occasion, Showuba recalled how in the ancient days, the preparation to observe the festival took months ahead especially after harvest which normally fell in the month of October.

Speaking on the significance of Tsungkamneo, Tokiu Kecham public leader stated that Tsungkamneo Festival was by tradition and customary practices the most significant and important festival of Yimkhiung Naga.

He stated that there were as many as ten significant festivals that were celebrated by the Yimkhiung aga in the past. However, with the changes in the social system and norms

in the present and modern days and times, many of the traditional and festival practices were no longer practiced and observed as in the past.

During this festival, peace treaties, bonding of relationship, and reconciliation between the warring villages, communities and individuals were also observed by hosting feasts between the enemies and at the same time, re-affirmation or re-strengthening and maintaining of friendship between the existing enemies were the prominent features of the festival.

It is also a thanksgiving for the blessings of livestock, harvest, and other

wealth and properties.

Earlier, the Tsungkamneo festival was chaired by Shihthsangla and Hankamla, invocation prayer by YBBA executive secretary Rev. Dr. SJ Akhum and welcome address was delivered by H. Tsurito secretary 11 ward union.

Folk song by GBs Shamator town and special presentation by Tsuyanla H were the others highlights of the celebration.

Short speeches were delivered by NDPP Shamator region president Y. Tokiu and YTC former secretary A. Ato. The festival was also marked traditional fire making competition where all the 11 wards and

two colonies under Shamator town participated.

Y. Anner-oldest village also celebrated Tsüngkamneo festival with a prayer by pastor Pintsü and a message from K. Yimtokiu Hd GB. The village council also organized competitions such as volleyball, traditional songs and dances and top spinning.

In Pungro, Pungrobased Civil Society Organisations headed by YTC celebrated the Tsüngkamnyo festival at YTC Sub treasury, Pungro town.

At the celebration, EAC Pungro Hq, Yitachu Thurr spoke on selfreliance and promoting local and organic products while encouraging and supporting local entrepreneurs. He also spoke on the importance of culture and traditional practices. The programme was chaired by YLA president Pungro Unit, Throngkila and Social and Cultural Secretary YTK, Kinan announced the welcome address.

Makhezo executive chairman YTC and Resangla Susana, president, of Yimkhiung Women’s Organisation delivered of short speech.

The significance of the Tsungkamnyo festival was shared by Yansomong Head GB, Pungro Town.

DIMAPUR: Two persons including a pastor were honoured with State Good Samaritan Act Award for their act of humanity upon those who met with an accident on July 2, 2022 between Dimapur and Kohima.

Road Safety Committee chairman, Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Sachin Jaiswal, presented the award to P. Lanusunep Jamir Pastor Luyim Ao Baptist Church and Temjen Imsong at DCs office Dimapur on January 16.

They were appreciated and awarded the State award for Good Samaritan

DC Dimapur hands out the award to Lanusunep Jamir and Temjen Imsong on January 16.

Award and encouraged them to continue their gesture towards humanity selflessly.

Prior to this Nagaland government has also recommended the Ministry of

Road Transport & Highways of India to acknowledge and confer National Good Samaritan Award to them, and has forwarded a documentary regarding the said act.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Online registration for JNV: DC Kohima Shanavas C, in a circular, has informed the general public and parents under Kohima district that the online registration for appearing in the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Selection Test for the Session 2023-2024 for Class VI will be conducted on April 29, 2023 and the last date for submission of application will be January 31, 2023. In this regard, DC Kohima has informed all the interested candidates to do the same as per the notification.

IGNOU SC-2001 MCK induction programme: The IGNOU SC-2001 Modern College, Kohima (MCK) induction programme has been scheduled to be held on January 21, at 12.30 pm in the College auditorium opposite SBI, Lerie

Suruhuto town urban station inaugurated

of Tourism, government of India for introducing PRASHAD-Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive, scheme in the State. PRASHAD scheme aims to develop and identify pilgrimage sites for enriching the religious experience for the tourist in Nagaland and across the world, he said.

out that the Centre was the headquarter for 148 churches across Sumi inhabited area in Nagaland and also houses Asia’s largest church building with a sitting capacity of 10,000.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 16 (NPN):

Suruhuto Town Urban Station was virtually inaugurated by advisor, Tourism and Art & Culture, Khehovi H Yeputhomi at a programme held at the conference hall of directorate of Tourism, here on Monday.

During the programme, Yeputhomi also unveiled the foundation stone for development of pilgrimage tourism infrastructure at

SBAK, Nito Mount Mission Centre, Zunheboto under PRASHAD Scheme.

In his address, Yeputhomi, thanked the government of Nagaland and department of Municipal Affairs for choosing Suruhuto Town to be upgraded into an urban station.

He hoped that through the initiative people of the town would be benefitted greatly at the same time create a positive impact on the youth. He expressed

the hope that with the upgradation there would be more job opportunities and better facilities in the field of Information Technology, Education, business and other similar areas. He also expressed optimism that the two newly launched projects would provide a holistic overall development and bring about more opportunity for the enthusiastic entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, Yeputhomi thanked the Ministry

He said that Nito Mount Mission Compound Zunheboto was a site managed by Sumi Baptist Church and its missionaries. He pointed

Yeputhomi said development of infrastructure under PRASHAD scheme included lighting and illumination with renewable energy sources, eco-friendly modes of transport, first aid centres, drinking water, waiting rooms, toilets, parking, craft bazaars/souvenir

1st Death a nniversary

Late Wilfred Murry Born on 11.11.1954 Died on 17.01.2022

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

Loving wife, children and relatives

shops/haats/cafeteria, rain shelters, telecom facilities, internet connectivity among others. Earlier, Wachusie Katiry, deputy director, municipal affairs, Nagaland gave a brief summary of Suruhuto Town Urban Station. The programme was chaired by Toka E. Tuccumi, deputy director tourism, Nagaland while vote of thanks was proposed by Veyielo Doulo, additional director, tourism, Nagaland. Nagaland’s tourism director KM Rio also present at the function.

Branch, Kohima. Fresh learners enrolled for July 2022 sessions have been requested to attend the induction programme positively. Further information can be contacted IGNOU SC-2001, Modern College, Kohima at 9856015006.

AKM conference: Ao Students Conference (AKM) will be holding the 69th general conference from January 18 to 20, 2023 at Akhoya village under the theme “Education in Praxis”. The conference will be graced by chief minister Neiphiu Rio as special guest while ministers Tongpang Ozukum and Temjen Imna Along Longkumer will be the inaugural and valedictory guests respectively.

NLA speaker Sharingain Longkumer, minister RD Metsübo Jamir and advisor Imnatiba will be the special invitees.

Late Rentsamo Kikon (06/03/1985- 11/01/2023) We, the family members of Lt. Rentsamo Kikon, convey our sincere gratitude and heartfelt thanks to every individual, neighbours and friends, who stood by us at the sudden loss of our beloved, through their physical presence, prayers and financial assistance. Words are insufficient to repay your priceless support during our time of grief but it is our humble prayer that our Almighty God bless you and your family abundantly. We deeply regret our inability to acknowledge all the names but we would like to express our special thanks to:

Dr. Longrineken, Advisor, National Highways, Treasuries & Accounts

Mr. P. Nchumbemo Kikon

Mr. R. P. Kikon ADGP

Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung

Addl. SP, Mokokchung

Mangkolemba

Longsa Baptist Church, Wokha

Chumoukedima ‘A’ Village Ao Fellowship

All rank and staff of SP Kohima

DEF Kohima 11. Khar Village Loving mother, sister, brothers and in-laws

Cultural presentation by women folk at the Tsungkamneo festival at Shamator. (IA Shamator)

Khehovi with others officials at the programme in Kohima. (NP)

Sükrünye and youth festival concludes Calls for eradication of proxy teachers

the grievances and problems highlighted by the DEO Niuland, Sara also informed the DEO to prepare a proposal for the upgradation of the High school to a Higher Secondary school since Niuland district has only one Higher Secondary school.

The following agendas were deliberated and approved at the meeting: recognition of Heveto village under Kuhuboto Sub-Division, report of Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) by all HoDs, and highlighted on the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI).

DIMAPUR: Two-day, Sükrünye and Youth festival organised by Phek Town Youth Society (PTYS) in collaboration with Nehru Yuva Kendra(NYK) Phek concluded on January 15 at Phek local ground.

The event was held under the theme “Fairing the Hair” with Deputy Commissioner (DC), Phek Kumar Ramnikant as Sükrünye guest.

A press release by PTYS press secretary Kedu-

pa Venuh stated that, DC conveyed Sükrünye greetings to all the Chakhesang people and encouraged the gathering to uphold their culture that represents their identity. He also acknowledged people’s support for preserving traditional festivals and said, “Culture is our identity that makes us unique”. DC further called upon the youths to sincerely preserve their traditional culture and encouraged them to come

‘2023 year of eradication of proxy teachers in Niuland’

DIMAPUR: DC Niuland Sara S Jamir called for eradication of proxy

teachers in Niuland districts asserting that “2023 will be the year of eradication of proxy teachers in the district”.

A DIPR report stated that DC made this statement at the District Planning & Development

NCC combined annual training camp in Kohima

DIMAPUR: A Combined Annual Training Camp (CATC) for 250 national cadet corps (NCC) cadets from nine colleges and seven schools from Kohima, Phek, Dimapur, Peren and Chumukedima districts affiliated to 24 Nagaland (Independent) Company NCC, would be held from January 20-27 at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma.

In a press release, PRO (Defence), Kohima & Imphal informed that the aim of this camp was to give cadets an experience of Military Discipline and Regimentation.

At the camp, cadets will be trained to handle and fire Small Arms and trek to Puleibadze peak, learning the rudiments of community living in camps will be also conducted.

A band display and weapon display would also be organised for the cadets by 1st Assam Rifles Batallion.

Training on DLMT on EVM/VVPATS

DIMAPUR: In view of the forthcoming State assembly election 2023, training for District Level Master Trainers (DLMT) will be held from January 17 to 18, 2023 at DC’s conference hall and DPDB hall, District Planning Machinery DC office Kohima.

The DLMTs for EVM/ VVPATs will held on January 19, 2023 at DCs conference, Hall, Kohima. All the 16 DEO DLMTs for EVM/VVPATs have been directed to attend the training positively.

Board (DPDB) meeting of Niuland held at DC’s Conference Hall Niuland on January 16.

In this connection, the DC urged all the officers and public leaders to cooperate with the authorities. In line with

DEO Niuland Bohovi Yeptho while delivering a departmental presentation highlighted various achievements and problems in the department including the inclusion of the Kuhuboto division into Niuland DEO which was earlier under SDEO Dimapur.

forward with new ideas that make good for the community. Miss Sükrünye contest was also conducted where

Mesungo-u Lasushe won the title. Ukolu AHoshi and Ruth Hoshi finished as 1st and 2nd runners up respectively. Phek Town Women’s Welfare Society presented a special song at the celebration. Invocation and Sükrünye greetings were delivered by Chivo Medio Youth Director, CYE PTBC and Neihite Akami advisor PTYS. The festival featured culture and traditional games.

9731152099, BT ROAD: AUTORELLI NISSAN- 9731152180, KALYANI: AUTORELLI NISSAN- 9731152405, SILIGURI: NAMAN NISSAN- 9731149714, MANIPUR: IMPHAL: ILAND NISSAN- 9731149307, MIZORAM: AIZWAL: RAFAEL NISSAN- 9731150947, BIHAR: PATNA: NUTAN NISSAN- 9731087973, MUZAFFARPUR: GOBERDHAN NISSAN- 9731154247.

Kumar Ramnikant

DC Niuland Sara S Jamir addressing the DPDB members on January 16.

5 Mnp cops arrested with drugs, WY tablets

Correspondent

IMPHAL, JAN 16: Amid the intensified poppy plant destruction drive as a part of government’s war on drugs, Manipur police on Monday seized huge narcotic drugs worth crores of rupees and arrested five of its personnel carrying the contraband drugs.

Five police commando personnel, an elite force of Manipur police to counter insurgency, were arrested after a large quantity of narcotic drugs were found in the vehicle they were coming towards Imphal from Moreh, Manipur’s town at Indo-Myanmar border, officials said.

They were arrested after 1.336 kg of suspected heroin (No. 4) powder and 9.151 kg of suspected WY tablets were detected from the vehicle they were travelling from Moreh to Imphal along NH-102.

A cash amount of Rs 80,000 was also recovered from the personnel who led the team. A team of police commandos attached with Kakching district police in-

tercepted the large quantity of drugs during a check to the official vehicle (Gypsy brand) allotted to them for official duty, said Kakching Superintendent of Police (SP) Shrey Vats.

Addressing a news conference today afternoon, the SP identified the arrested personnel as havildar Kh Achouba Singh of MPTC, rifleman Th Subhash Chothe of 7h Manipur Rifles, constable Y Dineshwar Meitei of Imphal West district police, rifleman M Premchandra Singh of 6th Manipur Rifles (MR) and rifleman N Dorendrajit Singh of 6th MR.

“Unfortunately, the seizure was done from one team of police commandos

Assam Zoo to become major tourist spot of the state: CM

GUWAHATI, JAN 16 (AGENCIES): While people in Assam were busy celebrating Magh Bihu with their dear ones, the CM of Assam decided to take a drive to the state Zoo. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday, visited the Guwahati zoo and scrutinised the development tasks of the place. During this period, the CM declared that the place will be transformed into a major tourist spot, soon. He drove inside the Zoo premises and looked after the current scenario and development tasks that has been made by the concerned authorities, reports the Sentinel. The CM further directed the zoo authorities to groom the space and give it a transformation without disturbing the flora and fauna. The CM after his visit to the zoo, tweeted from his official handle, and expressed

AIZAWL, JAN 16

(AGENCIES): Three people, two of them sitting members of Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), died and two others were injured when the vehicle they were travelling in fell into a gorge on the outskirts of Aizawl early Monday, police said, reports Eastmojo.

The incident occurred when the five occupants were heading towards Aizawl from Chawngte, the headquarters of Chakma council in south Mizoram’s Lawngtlai district.

his happiness regarding the same. He mentioned in his tweet that the zoo is going to get a major facelift and will be converted into one of the most beautiful tourist spot of the region.

Sarma during his time inside the premises, discussed bits and pieces of ways on to how the place will be transformed. He discussed with officials of the place to add certain more facilities. The CM advised to construct a botanical garden along with a night safari inside the premises.

The CM also fed the macaws inside the zoo. He mentioned about this in his tweet, terming the experience as refreshing and lovely. Pictures of CM feeding the cute macaws were all over the social media. In the pictures, few parrots were also seen sitting in Himanta Biswa Sarma’s shoulder.

Their vehicle (Gypsy car) ran off a road and rolled over about 60 metres down a cliff and subsequently caught fire at Khiangchawlh in Melthum area on the southern outskirts of Aizawl in early Monday, the police said.

Three died on the spot, while two others- a District Council Member (MDC) and a village council member, were taken to nearby hospital.

The deceased have been identified as Charan Singh Chakma (38) and Mohesh Boran Chakma (40), both Mem-

attached with the Kakching district police,” the SP said.

He added that the team with havildar Kh Achouba Singh as team commander was posted at Moreh town and under order of transfer to Special Commando Unit in Imphal’s Khabeisoi. The SP said that a team of police commandos attached with Kakching district was deployed along ImphalMoreh section of NH-102 at Kuraopokpi near St Joseph English School acting on specific information on the transportation of smuggled narcotic drugs from Moreh to Imphal. They stopped the Gypsy vehicle in which the five personnel were heading towards Imphal around 7.30

Woman arrested with meat of wildlife in Manipur

Correspondent

IMPHAL, JAN 16: A woman wa s on Monday was arrested with meat of deer and wild boar from a market in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur.

A joint team of members of Unique Wildlife Protection Committee Manipur (UWPC), officials of Central forest division and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, Northeastern region arrested the woman from near a shop at Lamphel Super Market today, around 1.30 p.

The arrested woman was identified as Thari Mang (45). She hails from Tuibong of Churachandpur district.

The joint team seized five kg of venison (meat of deer) and 16 kg meat of wild boar.

bers of District Council (MDCs) and Banosandro Tongchangya (46), who was a village council member from Boroituli village.

The vehicle was driven by Charan Singh Chakma. The cause of the accident was believed to be due to the dozing off of the driver while driving, losing control of the vehicle, police said.

The two injured persons are said to be out of danger. The three victims were sent to Zoram Medical College (ZMC) for postmortem examination.

FELICITATION

am and conducted a check.

During the thorough checking, 100 soap cases containing suspected Heroin (No.4) powder and eight

In the meantime, authorities of the Manipur government started using herbicides to destroy poppy plants in the interior hill ranges of the state from today. Manipur CM N Biren Singh, in a Facebook post, wrote “We have started deploying drones to destroy poppy plantations.

“More such missions to be carried out in all the areas where poppy is being cultivated,” he added.

The state government had recently procured three drones capable of spraying herbicides for the purpose. The state government took the decision to use drones in the destruction of poppy plants after large scale poppy plantations were found in the interior hill ranges during an aerial

bundles of suspected WY tablets with each bundle containing about 10,000 tablets were discovered, the SP said.

survey conducted recently. The state government had also decided to use Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in searching poppy cultivation fields in the interior hill ranges. On other hand, the police arrested one more chief of a hill village on the alleged charge of involvement in poppy cultivation in his jurisdiction today.

The arrested chief was identified as Thongkholet Haokip alias Max (41) son of Doukhosei. He is the chief of New Chahnoujang village under Chakpikarong police station of Chandel district. He was arrested from a place in Churachandpur district where he was reportedly hiding to avoid police arrest since December, the source said.

Flybig connects Itanagar with Ghy under UDAN

GUWAHATI, JAN 16 (AGENCIES): India’s newest scheduled commuter airline Flybig, on Sunday, launched a flight that connects Itanagar directly to Guwahati.

Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) is a regional airport development program of the Government of India. The UDAN scheme emphasises connectivity between remote cities and bigger cities at rates affordable to the “aam naagrik” (common citizen), reports Eastmojo. Flybig Airlines aims to bring in connectivity to remote regions, claiming to connect “destinations that were earlier not accessible by air.”

According to media reports, Airports Authority of India staff was present on the occasion. It might be noted that the direct daily morning flight from Itanagar to Guwahati will fly every day except on Wednesday. Sources say that the flight was launched with an inaugural fare of Rs 1,111.

Sikkim didn’t get due share of devp, HSP to bring real change: Bhaichung

GANGTOK, JAN 16

(AGENCIES): Indian football legend Bhaichung Bhutia on Sunday rued the “lack of development” in Sikkim under various regimes over the years, and urged people to vote for his Hamro Sikkim Party (HSP) in the 2024 assembly polls to usher in real ‘parivartan’ (change) in the state.

In an open letter to people on the occasion of Maghe Sankranti’, Bhutia said the Himalayan state has not got its due share of development in key sectors like road connectivity, education, healthcare, internet services and transportation.

“Sikkim’s rich history and tradition is what sets it apart as a land possessing an abundance of pride, possibilities and potential, but unfortunately, due to poor politics and politicians,

our state has not got its due share of development in any of the sectors,” the HSP chief said. Bhutia said if voted to power, the HSP would seek to provide equality and justice to people by resolving the issue of reservation of seats in the assembly for Nepali-speaking people.

The football icon also said that he firmly believed in the necessity of implementing an Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Sikkim, as it was a sensitive state that

For FY 2023-24

Hospital, C/o

shares international borders with three countries.

“There is a need to protect Sikkim’s diverse ethnic communities and to clamp down on the menace of drugs, crimes and violence that have historically been alien to the traditional Sikkimese society,” he said.

Bhutia also hit out at the present and previous governments in Sikkim for “neglecting” infrastructure development.

MNF will win next Mizoram Assembly polls: Zoramthanga

AIZAWL, JAN 16 (PTI): Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga on Monday claimed that his Mizo National Front (MNF) will win the next Assembly polls.

Elections to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly are due in the later part of this year. In the present assembly, the MNF has 28 members, while the main opposition party Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) has 6, Congress-5 and BJP -1. “We have two-third members (legislators) in the present assembly. There are no other good contenders to defeat our MLAs. With more assistance under the state flagship programme - Socio-Economic Development Policy (SEDP) and development schemes coming in, we have more advantages to retain power...,” Zoramthanga said while addressing a function at the MNF office here.

He said that more than one lakh families, including those which have already received assistance, would receive financial assistance under the SEDP before the

assembly polls. The SEDP is the flagship programme of the ruling MNF, which aims at bringing sustainable development by accelerating progress in key sectors through exploration and judicious use of resources and maintaining equality and equity among the citizens. Under this policy, the government was initially planning to provide monetary assistance to the tune of not less than Rs 3 lakh to beneficiaries to start projects (trades) of their choice for sustainable development and the economic uplift of household families. Since August last year, the Zoramthanga government has been providing monetary assistance amounting to Rs 25,000 to 60,000 families under the flagship programme.

cbc 48129/12/0084/2223

APPRECiAtiON tO dR CHUMBEN MURRY

Humtso-Elumyo-wokha Villages under wokha 38 A/C can be considered a hub of agriculture and horticulture produces. However, the road leading to these Villages can be at the most considered, a pitiable fair-weathered road. During monsoon it becomes un-motorable causing a lot of hardship to the people of the area. It is learnt that this road is going to be taken up under PMGSY very soon. The people of the three Villages are exceedingly happy on this account and would like to thank the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri. Neiphiu Rio, and the Department of Roads & Bridges, Nagaland. We would also like to appreciate the initiatives taken by Dr. Chumben Murry, MLA & Advisor.

Recently also, Dr, Chumben Murry and friends have undertaken repair of the road with their own resources. The Village Chairmen of the three Villages on behalf of the Villagers would like to thank Dr. Chumben Murry and his friends for the charitable work and we would like to wish Dr. Chumben Murry God’s blessings and success in all his endeavours.

Dated, 12th January 2023

of

MORIGAON, JAN 16

(AGENCIES): Three persons were killed and 14 others critically injured when a vehicle carrying pilgrims collided with a truck on a stretch of National Highway-37 in Assam’s Morigaon district on Monday, police said.

The head-on collision took place at Dharamtul area, they said, reports Eastmojo.

The injured have been admitted to Morigaon Civil Hospital and their condition is stated to be critical, a police officer said.

One of the deceased has been identified as Bhupal Adhikary, while the identity of the others is yet to be ascertained.

A total of 17 pilgrims were returning to Guwahati from Parsuram Kunda in Arunachal Pradesh, he said.

With immense joy and honour, we Tsaphimi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to Dr. Inakali Assumi, on being conferred the Doctorate Degree on the topic "Representation of life through folksongs: A study on the Sumi Nagas" under the supervision of Dr. I. Talisenla Imsong from Nagaland University, Kohima Campus, Meriema , Dept of English.

The union further wishes success in her future endeavours.

Tokivi Achumi Lakshika Assumi President, TKK Gen. Secretary, TKK DP-230/23

12-12-2017. k-120/23

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The five days long, 61 Soccer tournament of nyiro range Sports association held from 10th Jan 2023 to 14th Jan 2023 concluded with a grand success. Longsachung ‘A’ sealed the cup against Yanthamo ‘B’ over a penalty shoot-out (9-7) in Football. Niroyo trashes N. Longidang in Men’s Volleyball while in the Womens Volleyball N. Longidang trashes Yanthamo. The NRSA Office Bearers, Range Chairman Union would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude and special thanks to the following generous contributions of:

1) Y Patton, Dy. CM – Rs. 60,000/-

2) YM Humtsoe – Rs. 1,00,000/-

3) Dr. Chumben Murry, Advisor – Rs. 20,000/-

4) NSN Lotha – Rs. 25,000/-

5) Joseph Patton – Rs. 80,000/-

The Office Bearers would also like to acknowledge our sincere thanks to Nyiro Range Chairman Union for their support and effort through out the tournament.

t eyingbemo murry c rakomo ezung Chairman, NRSA Secretary, NRSA

w C -05/23

detail

(Rupees Five thousand)

Bidding documents (Technical &

obtained physically from the office of the kohima Smart City Development limited, New Super Market Complex, Top floor Opp. UBC Kohima Nagaland during Office hours (10:00 AM to 5:00 Pm ) from the date of issue of this tender up to 31/01/2023.

(er. K theunuO) Chief Executive Officer

kohima Smart City Development Limited kohima: Nagaland

k. Vandan Erui C. Zumomo Tsanglao T. Rhanbemo Humtsoe Chairman Chairman Chairman Wokha Village Council Elumyo Village Council Humtso Village Council

SP Kakching Shrey Vats addressing media on the arrest of five police commando personnel on Monday.

3 dead, 14 hurt as vehicle collides with truck

Governmentbeginsuseofdrones withherbicidestodestroypoppy

CADC members among 3 dead in mishap

Bhaichung Bhutia

1 held for sending

obscene messages

BHADOHI, JAN 16 (PTI): A man was arrested on Monday for sending obscene messages and attempting to outrage the modesty of an 18-yearold-girl in a village in Uttar Pradesh’s Bhadohi district, police said. The man, who is a resident of Ghazipur, was arrested from Bhadohi’s Aurai area. “The man was sending obscene photos and videos by phone to the girl since January 3 and even after the number was blocked, he kept calling her from other numbers,” police said.

Delivery agent

chased by dog dies

HYDERABAD, JAN 16 (PTI): A food delivery executive, who had suffered critical injuries after jumping off the third floor of an apartment building here out of fear of being attacked by a chasing pet dog of a customer, succumbed at a hospital here, police said on Monday.

The 23-year-old man sustained head injuries and was hospitalised following the incident on January 11 died on Saturday, even as the dog’s owner has been booked on charge of causing death by negligence, the police said.

2 killed in Raj clash

JAIPUR, JAN 16 (PTI): Two people, including a woman, were killed and four others sustained injuries during a clash between two groups in Dausa district of Rajasthan on Monday, police said. SP Dausa, Sanjeev Nain said members of two families in Peeloda village clashed with each other over an old dispute involving a road accident. Relatives of the victims are staging a dharna outside Mahuwa police station and efforts are being made to pacify them, he added.

Agnipath transformative policy: PM

NEW DELHI, JAN 16

(PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated the first batch of Agniveers on being the pioneers of the Agnipath scheme, asserting that it is a transformative policy and a game changer in strengthening the armed forces and making them future-ready.

Virtually addressing the new recruits, he said this “path-breaking” scheme will further empower women.

According to an official statement, the prime minister said the young Agniveers will make the armed forces more youthful and tech-savvy.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called the Agnipath scheme one of the “most important and unprecedented reforms” in the armed forces. Addressing the Agniveers, the prime minister said technologically-advanced soldiers will play a “key role” in our armed forces, and added

that the current generation of youth especially has this potential and Agniveers will play a leading role in the forces in the times to come.

The prime minister said “new India” is filled with renewed vigour and efforts are underway to modernise the armed forces and make them ‘aatmanirbhar’ (self-reliant). “In the 21st century, the way wars are fought is changing,” he said, speaking about the

Missing ballot box traced to Kerala cooperative dept office

KOCHI, JAN 16 (IANS): In a glaring omission, a missing ballot box of postal votes was on Monday traced to the office of a top cooperative department official at Malappuram.

The Kerala High Court had directed officials to produce the ballot boxes in a plea moved by K.P.M. Mustafa, a LDF Independent candidate, questioning the victory of UDF candidate Najeeb Kanthapuram from the Pernithalmanna constituency in the 2021 Assembly polls. Kanthapuram had won by a thin margin of 38 votes.

Mustafa had approached the high court with an election petition claiming that 348 postal votes in three ballot boxes were not counted.

The court had asked

the concerned officials to see that the ballot boxes be brought to the court. When the officials approached the district treasury to take possession of the three ballot boxes, only two were found.

On further examination, the third box was found at the office of a top cooperative department official in the district, located about 15 km from the strong room where the other two ballot boxes were kept.

Kanthapuram said he has registered a complaint about the missing ballot box with the election authorities as well as the Kerala Police, adding that this is a serious issue and a proper probe has to be conducted into it. Mustafa also expressed his surprise over the development.

new fronts of contactless warfare and challenges of cyber warfare. Lauding the potential of Agniveers, he said their spirit is reflective of the bravery of the armed forces which has always kept the flag of the nation flying high. “The experience they will acquire through this opportunity will be a source of pride for life,” he added.

The prime minister concluded by saying that they are the ones who are

Biting cold sweeps Punjab, Haryana

CHANDIGARH, JAN 16 (PTI): Piercing cold weather conditions prevailed in Punjab and Haryana on Monday with minimum temperatures hovering a few notches below normal at many places.

Faridkot and Bathinda were the coldest places in Punjab with a minimum temperature of 0.2 degrees Celsius each, according to the Meteorological Department here.

Amritsar recorded a low of 1.5 degrees Celsius while Ludhiana’s minimum was 2.4 degrees.

Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded 4.2 degrees Celsius. In neighbouring Haryana, Hisar recorded a low of 0.8 degrees Celsius while Ambala’s minimum was 5.6 degrees Celsius.

going to provide leadership to the nation in the 21st century, the statement said quoting Modi, who also added that the new recruitment scheme will further empower women.

The prime minister said he looks forward to seeing women Agniveers in all three forces, noting that they are leading armed forces on various fronts and cited examples of women posted in Siachen and driving modern fighter planes.

Defence Minister Singh said the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has taken a number of decisions to empower the nation, terming the Agnipath scheme as one of the “most important and unprecedented reforms”, an official statement said.

Singh asserted that strengthening the security apparatus of the country is the government’s topmost priority amidst the everevolving global scenario and geopolitical uncertainty.

Congress slams Rijiju’s letter to CJI on collegium system

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): The Congress on Monday accused the government of “intimidating” the judiciary in a bid to “totally capture it” and alleged that Law Minister Kiren Rijiju’s suggestion to restructure the collegium system is a “poison pill” for the judiciary.

The fresh Congress attack came after Rijiju wrote to Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud suggesting the inclusion of the Union and state government representatives in the Supreme Court and high court collegiums, saying it will help infuse transparency and public accountability in the selection of judges.

“The VP’s assaults. The Law Minister’s attacks. All this is orchestrated confrontation with the judiciary to intimidate and thereafter capture it totally,” AICC general secretary Jairam

Ramesh said on Twitter.

“The Collegium needs reform. But what this Government wants is complete subservience - Its remedy is a poison pill for the judiciary,” he also said.

Justifying the letter to CJI, Law Minister Rijiju said in a tweet, “the contents in the letter to hon’ble CJI are exactly in conformity with the observations and directions of the Supreme Court Constitution Bench.”

“Convenient politics is not advisable, especially in the name of the Judiciary. The Constitution of India is supreme and nobody is

above it,” Rijiju also said He said the government’s demand for the inclusion of its representatives and that of states in collegiums of the Supreme Court and high courts was the “precise follow-up action” suggested by the apex court while striking down the NJAC Act.

Rijiju made the remarks while responding to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who dubbed as “extremely dangerous” the government’s move to ask the Supreme Court to include its nominees in the collegium.

Paper leaks: Pilot asks own govt to act against ‘big sharks’

JAIPUR, JAN 6 (PTI):

Indirectly targeting his own party’s government in Rajasthan, Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Monday said the state should take action against the “big sharks” behind the string of recruitment exam paper leaks reported recently.

Addressing farmers and the youth at a Kisan Sammelan in Nagaur’s Parbatsar, the former deputy chief minister also called for a legal guarantee on minimum support price (MSP) for crops.

Pilot, who is involved in a power tussle with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, said paper leak incidents hurt the aspirations of the youth who prepare for the exams in adverse conditions while their parents struggle to arrange money for books and fees.

He said in the time to

come, petty middlemen and kingpins involved in paper leaks should be caught.

“To instill confidence in the youth, the government should take action against the big sharks responsible for paper leaks,” Pilot added without naming anyone.

Meanwhile, addressing a press conference in Jaipur, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas said, “Sachin Pilot-ji is a former deputy chief minister of our

party. Even if Sachin Pilot gives the name of one accused, he will not be spared.

Pilot sahab is also our family member.” “If he has any suggestion, we will take it.

Pilot sahab is our senior leader, there is no problem,” he added.

The Rajasthan second grade teacher recruitment exam paper was leaked last month, following which the test was cancelled. More than 50 people, including candidates, were arrested for their alleged involvement.

The Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP), led by Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal, will hold a protest in Jaipur on Tuesday against the incidents of paper leaks.

At the Kisan Sammelan, Pilot said, “If farmers and the youth of the country unite, they can

defeat any force that divides, spreads rumours, and comes to power by telling lies. We demand the Centre should enact a law to legalise minimum support price,” he said.

“Only two communities -- the youth and farmers -- can break the politics being done in the name of caste, community, religion, language, province,” Pilot added.

He said the BJP had promised to double the income of farmers, but it attempted to break their backs by enacting three ‘black’ agricultural laws, which had to be withdrawn later. The Congress leader also targeted the Centre over unemployment and inflation.

During his visit to the Jat-dominated Nagaur district, Pilot stopped by the temple of Veer Tejaji in Kharnal.

PM Modi waves at supporters during a roadshow, in New Delhi, Monday. (PTI)

Jairam Ramesh Kiren Rijiju

Sachin Pilot

Needless controversies

Itis a sad reflection of how politics has come to overwhelm Raj Bhavans across the nations as incumbents owing allegiance to the ruling party at the Centre go on offensive against state governments run by opposition parties and on the other side, governors co-opt in protecting the state governments run by the same party as that at the Centre or coalition. Currently, there are two categories of governors in the states: those holding office in BJP-ruled states and the ones in non-BJP-governed states. In the first category are those who are completely in sync with the state governments, annoy the Opposition, but do not subvert any constitutional process or politically abuse the offices they hold. The second category has those who act virtually as the Centre’s handmaidens and not as constitutional authorities that their positions make them.Conflicts rage most prominently between the elected governments and governors in Tamil Nadu (DMK), Delhi (AAP), Kerala (LDF), Telengana (TRS) and Punjab (AAP).The conflict between BJP-appointed governors and state government run by opposition parties or coalitions has been dominating the media. Mention may be made of the bitter public spat between Kerala governor Arif Mohammad Khan and the LDF government under chief minister Pinari Vijayan; the The most bitter spat was between then West Bengal governor and current vice president of India Jagdeep Dhankar with West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. The other was between Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and then MVA coalition under then chief minister Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray of the Shiv Sena till he was dethroned by his own former confidant Eknath Shinde who later forged an alliance with the BJP.The office of the governor and its misuse for undercutting democratically elected governments has been a constant in Indian politics from even before independence as the office was first established under the Government of India Act, 1935. The Governor is a high constitutional authority. He needs to function within the four walls of the Constitution and be a friend, philosopher and guide to his government. As per ordinary understanding the governor is a mere figurehead who acts on the advice of the council of ministers and under whose name appointments to various positions are made. Most importantly, the governor is supposed to act on the advice of his council of ministers and therefore even in the event of not in agreement, the incumbent eventually has to abide by the advice of his council of ministers. However,if the governor disagrees with the council of ministers he can refer to the President. These disagreements are not unusual but when the governor and the government involve in public spat, it is the most damaging to the constitutional democracy. Though the governor is an agent of the Centre, he is a constitutional agent and not a branch officer of the party in power at the Centre. Parliament needs to discuss the issue so that there is healthy respect for constitutional democracy among both the governor and the state legislature.

Let us deliver Peace & Solution before things get delayed and derailed

One should look at things as they stand or rather stare at you. 2022 is bygone and all eyes are on 2023. Will this year bring in the promised peace and prosperity to Nagas? Nagas are awaiting Political solution more than anyone else, We Nagas have to make up our minds.

What do we want? How do we want to achieve what we want? Or should we pursue the ongoing journey to destruction by way of promoting mutual hatred and confrontation?

The peace process has been going on for quite some time now since it started in 1997. According to the Government of India, there is nothing much to discuss and debate as all contentious issues have been discussed. As a stakeholder, the NNPG is also reportedly keen to ink the peace pact. There are issues flagged off by the NSCN-IM. Each stakeholder in such a dialogue process has their own priorities and are within their rights to raise matters at the negotiating tables. The Modi government has given due importance to all and also displayed utmost sincerity and statecraft in guiding the peace process.

Prime Minister Modi ji is more than keen for a peaceful resolution of the issues. As the leader of 135 crore Indians, he has shown deep concerns for the development-starved north east region including Nagaland state and other pockets inhabited by Naga brothers.

Governor R N Ravi was shifted as our BJP government wanted to show that nothing matters more than the solution and peace

for Nagas. But what has been the response from the other side?

The 1997 cease fire agreement has entered 25th year. If a cadre is waiting for good time to come, is he at fault? Many have died and several others have grown old to serve. After the 2015, I am sure, the Framework Agreement, underground cadres were waiting to take up an opportunity to serve in the ‘mainstream’. Getting over aged; and I am sure now any rehabilitation for old age or over age may become a difficult proposition.

We Nagas have to be reasonable. We have to understand that our own whims and fancies cannot decide a government policy. The government has its own set of rules and regulations; some of them required to be amended in Parliament. Honestly, we Nagas want the GoI to solve our problem, we never understood their difficulties.

Insurgency has killed many innocent civilians in the name of anti-Naga stirs and politics both underground and overground. But today, we Nagas do not want bloodshed.

The Naga civil society is very powerful. In 2017 when Nagas opposed local body elections, the 17 day strike at secretariat didn’t allow anyone to function.

Old secretariat was burnt down and even elected members, govt officials were not allowed to move around. What if such a situation revisit us on important issue like the Naga peace. Thus, my appeal to the NSCN IM is think about our Naga people their future. Last few years with PM Narendra Modi at the helms, we have seen

other states in the region develop very fast. Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam are showing tremendous results; but the same things cannot be told about Nagaland.

We are missing out in development, our youths are getting jobless and getting frustrated. In some regions, people are already facing the urgency to opt for tightening of belts. The days of free lunch and rampant corruption are now vanishing. But we Nagas have not able to learn many important lessons. Someone is taking Nagas and especially Nagas of Nagaland for granted and playing with our future.

The fight is on for 6070 years and the people’s sufferings continue.

At this stage, I know the NSCN-IM and some of their associates may not be happy with me. What can an elderly person – practically left alone in personal life – think and say -- I have to give my life for the people of Nagaland for peace; and yes, I am ready for it. By historical circumstances, Nagas got scattered into various states and even countries -- India and Myanmar. Now it will not be fair to presume or hope that other states’ boundaries and other nation’s interests will be compromised to make us Nagas happy, or solve our problems. That’s the reality. It may be unfortunate and bitter facts, but they reflect the reality of our times. Let us take a pragmatic approach and embrace Solution for lasting peace and development.

Our generation of Naga elders owe it to ourselves and we owe it to our younger generation. Here comes the test of our

Naga maturity. ‘Nagas of Nagaland’ as we generally use the term these days are all for Solution and lasting peace. Our brothers in other states also appreciate our stand. Naga groups and influential leaders in Assam and other states have more than once stated that they are all for a lasting peace in Nagaland and elsewhere. The world is no longer ready to take up arms and opt for jungle life as was the case in the 1970s and the 1980s.

Why then prolong a solution which is at our doorsteps?

There is a new fashion statement now and everybody is trying to blame the Govt of India. People say New Delhi has not taken things seriously. But Govt of India is waiting for its ‘prodigal son’ to return home. At times even unreasonable demands have been entertained. Governor Ravi was shifted. But how long the people of Nagaland state will now wait for the Solution? Are we not trying to sabotage things at our levels? How has our elected state government and elected MLAs behaved? Why so much loot and corruption when money flow was on? Where is the money going?

Every time a new agenda is thrust or created. Sovereignty, integration, and now Constitution and a separate Flag. Can a Naga himself give up Flag if he is Prime Minister or Home Minister of India?

The civil society organisations can do a lot. Most of them if not all have promised to work for peace and solution.

NTC, CNTC, NGBF, APAC, and all the Tribal Hohos are ready to accept

The battle of Satakha (1956)

IntroductionThe Battle of Satakha is one of the most remarkable battles in the history of Naga Freedom Struggle fought under the able leadership and command of General Kaito. It was fought in the times of bloodshed and untold sufferings when the mighty Indian Army had gone all out to savagely vanquish our people and our land.

Reconnaissance

DailyDevotion The Voice of the Nature of God

I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” —Isaiah 6:8 When we talk about the call of God, we often forget the most important thing, namely, the nature of Him who calls. There are many things calling each of us today. Some of these calls will be answered, and others will not even be heard. The call is the expression of the nature of the One who calls, and we can only recognize the call if that same nature is in us. The call of God is the expression of God’s nature, not ours. God providentially weaves the threads of His call through our lives, and only we can distinguish them. It is the threading of God’s voice directly to us over a certain concern, and it is useless to seek another person’s opinion of it. Our dealings over the call of God should be kept exclusively between ourselves and Him.

The call of God is not a reflection of my nature; my personal desires and temperament are of no consideration. As long as I dwell on my own qualities and traits and think about what I am suited for, I will never hear the call of God. But when God brings me into the right relationship with Himself, I will be in the same condition Isaiah was. Isaiah was so attuned to God, because of the great crisis he had just endured, that the call of God penetrated his soul. The majority of us cannot hear anything but ourselves. And we cannot hear anything God says. But to be brought to the place where we can hear the call of God is to be profoundly changed.

Towards the beginning of March 1956, when ex-Head Master Scato Swu summoned his former students from Satakha village I,( L. Atoi Swu) along with three other friends Ghonito, Zhehuto and Yezheto, went to meet him. He asked us if we ever used to go in or around the I.B (Inspection Bungalow) where the A.P (Assam Police) Company was posted. When we replied in affirmative, he told us to enter the post unsuspectingly and mark the place of the Signal Operator with a big “O” using charcoal and or 0a piece of chalk. He handed the chalk-pieces to me and my friend Zhehuto. We went, as told, and when we found where the Operator worked we marked the windows and the wall with big “O’s” and returned uncaught, then reported back to him.

Party concentration

Soon after, General Kaito asked all his friends from different villages to concentrate at Xuivi HQ. Three persons –H.Vishito Jimo, V. Ghonito and I from our village( Satakha New) went to Xuivi where we were received warmly by the General.

Operation plan and briefing

On 23.3.1956 at 15:30 hours Gen. Kaito called the three of us and said that on 24.3.56 at 12:00 Hrs the A.P post in I.B was going to be attacked, as such we were to inform all our friends in various villages. To which H. Vishito suggested, “Axu (pet name for the Gen), it is impossible to attack them during day-time, we’ll take them out at night”. But the General replied, “Ache (pet name for Vishito), by 12:00 hrs

the A.P personnel will be resting after taking their lunch. Most of them will be without arms and taking rest or nap. We will attack them when they’re resting. Make haste, therefore and inform all others”… We left to inform Commandant Zhehuto of Ghukhuyi village, Captain Luthai Shilhoto of Shoipu village, Lieutenant Suhoqhe, Ghotovi and Viheto party of Zhekiye village, and Comdt. Hevuto of Hoishe village.

Troops deployment and position

(All rank and file in various villages were informed with the express news from the General and were also told about their troop deployment depending on the proximity of their respective villages to Satakha Village)…

The Attack

On 24.3.1956 by 11:30 hrs, all troops had gathered and got deployed in their respective positions. There was hardly any movement of A.P personnel inside the post, and thus we could position ourselves well, close to their camp. At exactly 12:00 Hrs, shots rang out. My first shot was fired upon the marked place of the signal operator. My second shot misfired. Aà

A barrage of first shots from other guns destroyed the signal centre and the A.P could not call in any reinforcements. The gun shots were followed by war-cries -roars, yelling and shouts of every brave fighter… after nearly 3 hours of battle Comdt Yeveto, who was nearer to the A.P post started shouting in Hindi(language) “Those in Zunheboto have fallen into our hands; the ones in Kilo, M-Tsugho and Zulha have surrendered, where can you go? We have taken control over every escape routes. If you want to live, then you better surrender. Or else we will kill every one of you!” … as Comdt Yeveto continued with his barrage of words, a voice rang out from within the A.P post saying “Stop firing and we’ll talk!” Still, we continued firing….then Gen Kaito asked Comdt Yeveto what he was

barking about. When the Gen learnt about “the talk” he told Comdt Yeveto to tell the A.P that if they’re willing to surrender they would stop firing, but if they’re not willing to surrender then every one of them would be killed. As soon as Comdt Yeveto relayed the General’s conditional words, the Commander of A.P asked them to stop firing as they were willing to surrender… Comdt. Yeveto ordered his troops to stop firing and asked Subedar Hazarika, the A.P Commander to come out. But the Subedar was reluctant and instead asked the Comdt. to come in. Then, General Kaito said that both parties will move and meet near the gate and ordered Comdt Yeveto to make the move. Comdt. Yeveto shouted “Murat ka bacha hai kya darna hai!” and went alone towards the A.P gate. The A.P Commander also left his position and walked towards the gate where he shook hands with the Comdt… Subedar Hazarika told his men to leave their arms and come out. As soon as his men came out, every one of us rushed in to seize arms and ammunitions, equipments etc which we could lay our hands on. I returned twice and this second time as I entered the A.P Quarter Guard, I saw my father Lahezu returning with two rifles…

We put fire in the barracks and captured all the A.P personnel... Battle record

No of Arms seized - 78 Ammo seized - not recorded No. of enemies* captured alive - 78

No. of participant NSGs - 85** *One was killed in the battle **Approx. no., excluding villagers.

Note- Some names, villages and other details, about party concentration, troop deployment, administration etc have been intentionally omitted due to security reason.

Translated and written with permission

By A.

Atoi

Solution.

Even ENPO in Eastern Nagaland wants Solution, then what are we waiting for?

Nagas deserve peace and development more than anyone else. Our Bharatiya Janata Party guided by the spirit of Vasudeva Kutumbakam and Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas want to help all Naga brothers in our state of Nagaland and also those in Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The onus is on us to grab the opportunity.

Is it wise to drag things for years and decades when they are no longer relevant under the present conditions? ‘Solution’ as we are talking is nothing concrete or a set of new mechanisms. Solution will mean continuity with the present status quo but we can ensure Peace, Mutual Tolerance and Development for All.

Our legislators in Nagaland and even the socalled Core Committee have tried their best. Maybe they should have done more, but it will be difficult for them as well to face the people of Nagaland state yet again. If a solution has not come, they cannot say ‘we are nobody’ and hence Solution is the responsibility of the Government of India alone. Facilitators means something more than what they have been stating and doing all these years. It is time the elected MLAs also are made to see the Mirror. Where has the money meant for underdeveloped people vanished? That’s only one question. Next comes the roles of civil society. Has it done enough, or can it do more? Who can pursue our Naga

our roles are over once we put ‘pressure’ on the Government of India. They too have certain roles to carry out.

The Govt of India and the BJP understand how ‘half the mess in Naga society’ is created by certain political ideologies.

If the Modi Government fails to deliver peace and solution to Nagas, it will take a few decades more to come to the ‘crossroads’ we are in today by the turn of the calendar year 2023. It is up to Naga people to make the year historic.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and his cabinet have tried things under various names , politics affairs committee, core committee etc even NPF tried in the name of PAM; but no results. They blame the GoI. All the civil society also blame GoI. The NSCN (IM) also blames the centre. Blame game is not a solution. Everyone should understand the problem faced by the central Govt too.

It is a natural phenomenon that the old and aging leadership should make way for younger lots. In the BJP, the young leadership is always encouraged. It is time most of our Naga organisations should also understand the importance of youth power.

Let us deliver before things go out of our hands. ends

(M Chuba Ao is BJP national Vice President)

Recycling of waste glass needed in the country

One of the ways of reducing the consumption of natural sand is to utilise wastes as an alternative material. Recycling of wastes could reduce the demand for virgin natural resources and help to dispose of them effectively. The volumes of wastes generated each year in the country is alarmingly increasing due to a rise in the pollution. When it comes to solid waste the world produces nearly 2.0 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste every year, which is expected to grow to 3.4 billion tonnes by 2050. The increasing price and diminishing reserves of construction sand encourage a need to develop its sustainable and cost-effective replacement, helping the transition towards a circular economy. Traditional construction sand can be replaced by waste glass.Waste glass is a derivative of natural sand and could potentially show similar geotechnical behaviour. Using crushed waste glass as an alternative to traditional sand would potentially offer a doubleduty benefit by helping to address the geo-environmental challenges of natural sand depletion and disposal of ever-increasing waste glass, together.

Natural aggregates are widely used in a range of applications. Presently, the construction industry is the biggest consumer of natural resources in the world. It is a common practice to crush and screen the rock formations to different specifications, producing aggregates suitable for different construction applications. The consumption of aggregates is expected to increase at a rate of 5% per annum in India. Major sources of natural construction aggregates include crushed stone, gravel, and sand. In the country alone, nearly 300 million tonnes of aggregates are extracted each year, which is expected to further increase in the coming years.

Anato Swu, S/o Lt.

Swu, Satakha Village

A key concern for sustainable infrastructure construction is the continuous diminution of readily-available construction

aggregates. Environmentally, the extraction and logistics of aggregates release carbon footprint, which is harmful to the ecosystem. Consequently, nowadays, construction materials are increasingly being evaluated by their ecological footprint Natural sand is a widely used raw material and has become the secondmost widely consumed natural resource on planet Earth, after freshwater . It is estimated that between 32 and 50 billion tonnes of sand and gravel are extracted globally each year, which is largely used in construction. As an example, the construction of a medium-sized house requires 200 tonnes of sand; a hospital needs 3000 tonnes of sand, and each kilometre of highway construction needs 30,000 tonnes of sand. Studies show that sand is currently being extracted at a rate far greater than its renewal. Indiscriminate mining of sand could endanger animal species and habitats, harm aquatic life and cause biodiversity loss. It could also cause beach erosion, making coastal communities vulnerable to floods and causing loss to the eco-tourism industry. It is, therefore, necessary to find ways to reduce the demand for natural sand and to look for sustainable and low-carbon alternatives.In this regard,research has proven that the potential use of everincreasing waste glass as a sustainable alternative to depleting natural and manufactured sand in geotechnical construction is feasible. The findings showed that the geotechnical behaviour of crushed waste glass is similar, or sometimes even superior, to traditional construction sands. Overall, the crushed waste glass could potentially serve as an alternative and smart geomaterial, ultimately promoting the recycling of waste glass, reducing the burden on landfill and conserving natural resources, all helping the transition towards a circular economy.

Vijaykumar H K, Raichur, Karnataka, Environmentalist

Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.

leaders and ‘stakeholders’ in the peace process if the civil society opt for a passive and a rather meaningless indifferent role? Another term used for civil society is ‘pressure group’. These pressure groups cannot simply say

UP CM warns land grabbers

GORAKHPUR, JAN 16

(PTI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said strict legal action will be taken against people involved in cases of land grabbing and they will be taught a lesson. He was listening to people’s grievances during a Janata Darshan programme at an auditorium in the Gorakhnath temple complex here.

The chief minister during the programme assured people that “every problem would get a quality solution and that no one would be subjected to injustice”, according to an official statement.

AYUSH doctors stage protest in Maha

THANE, JAN 16 (PTI):

Nearly 100 community medical officials practising under the AYUSH stream at rural hospitals staged an agitation at the headquarters of the Thane Zilla Parishad in Maharashtra on Monday to press for their various demands. The agitation is being held under the banner of Maharashtra Rajya Samudaya Arogya Adhikari Sanghatana. Dr Tejaswini Sonawane, the vice-president of the organisation’s Thane district unit, said that if the government fails to pay heed to the doctors’ demands, they will go on an indefinite strike from January 23, she said. The protesting doctors have demanded that they be made permanent in government services and given a group and class, apart from a hike in salary and compensation, among other demands.

Leopard kills man in Chhattisgarh

KORBA, JAN 16 (PTI):

A villager was mauled to death by a suspected “maneater” leopard in Chhattisgarh’s ManendragarhChirmiri-Bharatpur district, the third fatality in the area in last 35 days, an official said on Monday. The same leopard attacked the three victims, he said, adding the forest department has roped in a team of experts to capture the feline that has been roaming in Bharatpaur development block since the last two months. In the latest incident which took place on Sunday evening, the leopard attacked Randaman Baiga (45) when he was returning from his farmland in Kunwari village under Janakpur forest range.

1 killed after throat slit by kite string

THANE, JAN 16 (PTI): A 47-year-old man died after a kite string got entangled around his neck and slit his throat while he was riding his twowheeler in Maharashtra’s Thane district, police said on Monday. An offence under section 304A (causing death by negligence) of the IPC has been registered for the accident that took place in Bhiwandi city on Sunday night, senior inspector C K Kakade said. Sanjay Hazare, a resident of Ulhasnagar, was heading home on a twowheeler when a kite string got entangled around his neck, he said. The victim’s throat was slit and he hit a wall and died on the spot, official said.

Swine flu case reported in Vadodara

VADODARA, JAN 16 (IANS): For the first time in seven years, a swine flu case has been reported in Vadodara, according to health authorities. The patient, a pregnant woman, is currently being treated for the H3N1 influenza at the Vadodara Government Hospital. Two days ago, the woman was admitted with cold, cough and high fever.

SC says default bail granted to accused can be cancelled

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): The Supreme Court on Monday held that default bail granted to an accused can be cancelled on merits if a strong case is made out on filing of the charge sheet on conclusion of investigations and there are “special reasons”.

Rejecting the submission that bail cannot be cancelled on merits once an accused is released on default bail, the court said if the argument is accepted then this would be giving a “premium” to lethargic probe and frustrate the justice.

A bench of Justices M R Shah and C T Ravikumar said mere filing of charge sheet will not result in cancellation of the bail unless the court is satisfied that a strong case is made out that the accused has committed a non bailable offence. “Mere filing of the charge sheet subsequent to a person is released on default bail under Section 167(2) CrPC cannot be a ground to cancel the bail of a person, who is released on default bail.

“However, on filing of

the charge sheet on conclusion of the investigation, if a strong case is made out and on merits, it is found that he has committed a nonbailable offence/crime, on the special reasons/grounds and considering Section 437(5) and Section 439(2) CrPC, over and above other grounds on which the bail to a person, who is released on bail can be cancelled on merits,” the bench said.

Under section 167 (2) of the CrPC, an accused becomes entitled to grant of statutory bail if the probe agency fails to file the charge sheet in the trial court within the stipulated period of either 60 or 90 days.

The top court said there is no absolute bar that once a person is released on default bail under Section 167(2) CrPC, his bail cannot be cancelled on merits.

Two killed in separate Jallikattu events in TN

MADURAI (TN), JAN 16 (PTI): Two persons, including a bull tamer, were killed in separate jallikattu events in Tamil Nadu on Monday.

And injuries did not seem to deter the enthusiasm of the dauntless tamers, who charged at the bulls every time they were released, with renewed vigour.

Chief Minister M K Stalin condoled the deaths and announced a solatium of Rs 3 lakh each to the families of bull tamer Aravind Raj of Palamedu, and spectator M Aravindh from Pudukottai district who died after being gored by a bull.

“I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and friends. I have ordered Rs 3 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Public Relief Fund to the families of the two deceased,” the Chief Minister said.

At least 75 persons including bull tamers and

owners were injured during the jallikattu--the bull taming sport-- held at Avaniyapuram in the district and another 34 sustained injuries at the event at Palamedu, which concluded this evening.

Aravind Raj, a 26-yearold bull tamer who appeared unstoppable in taming nine bulls, was gored by a bull at the jallikattu event in Palamedu.

Aravind Raj of Palamedu was initially rushed to the primary health centre (PHC) for first aid and later referred to the Rajaji Government Medical College Hospital here, said police.

“He was gored in the abdomen when he attempted to embrace the bull during the sport,” a senior police official said.

Raj had been faster than the animals and displayed a unique skill in taming the bull successfully.

It said the bail granted to an accused can be cancelled on other general grounds like tampering with the evidence/witnesses, not cooperating with the investigating agency and/or not cooperating with the concerned trial court etc. “The submission that once an accused is released on default bail under Section 167(2) CrPC, his bail cannot be cancelled on merits is accepted, in that case, it will be giving a premium to the lethargic and/or negligence, may be in a given case of deliberate attempt on the part of the investigating agency not to file the charge sheet within the prescribed time period.”

The top court said even if the accused has committed a very serious offence like under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act(NDPS) or murder and he manages through a convenient investigating officer not to file the charge sheet within the prescribed time limit and gets released, it may lead to giving a premium to illegality and/or dishonesty.

Delhi Police bust illegal firearms syndicates; 4 held Oppn’s ‘personal attacks’ on PM Modi exposed by SC verdicts: BJP

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): Ahead of the Republic Day, Delhi Police’s Special Cell busted two inter-state illegal firearms syndicates in the city with the arrest of four arms suppliers, officials said on Monday. Rohit Kumar (26), Pawan Kumar (28), Sunny (21) and Harshdeep (19), who hail from Punjab, have been involved in arms trafficking for over four years, they said, adding 18 pistols were recovered from their possession.

The accused sourced the firearms from Madhya Pradesh and supplied in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and west Uttar Pradesh, police said.

ACP (Special Cell) P S Kushwah said, “A specific information was received on January 13 following which three accused -- Rohit, Pawan and Harshdeep -- were apprehended at Barapullah Road near auto stand, Nizamuddin Railway Station, when they were exchanging firearms.” The fourth accused, Sunny, the handler of Harshdeep, was arrested from near Nizamuddin Railway Station, he added.

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): Political resolution proposed at the BJP national executive on Monday accused the Opposition of running negative campaign over several issues against the government and launching “personal attacks” on Prime Minister Modi, and asserted that Supreme Court verdicts exposed it.

Law Minister Kiren Rijiju proposed the resolution at the key meeting, a pointer to his rising profile in the party as he spearheads the government’s position on legal and judicial issues, and UP deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and Karnataka minister Govind Karjol seconded it, Union minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters here.

The political resolution lauded BJP’s historic verdict in Gujarat assembly polls and a number of bypolls to assert that it will have an impact on the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

BJP has said that it might have lost the Himachal assembly elections but its vote share was just one per cent less than that of Congress.

PM Modi holds roadshow: Enthused BJP workers and supporters lined the roads to greet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his roadshow here as the party’s two-day national executive began in Delhi on Monday.

In an atmosphere enlivened by music and the cheering crowd, the roadshow started from Patel Chowk and continued till the NDMC convention centre. People showered Modi with flower petals and chanted slogans in his support.

Huge cutouts of the prime minister were placed along the road, besides several posters highlighting various initiatives of the government and also India’s presidency of the G20.

Stages had been erected at places. Folk artistes from several states performed on some of them, while others blared patriotic songs.

BJP president J P Nadda welcomed Modi at the venue of the party’s meeting, which started upon the prime minister’s arrival.

While Modi has been holding roadshows frequently, it is not very often that he does it ahead of the party’s executive meet, which has been organised several times in the national capital now. BJP leaders noted that Modi had held a roadshow ahead of the party’s national executive in Odisha, and added that the exercise proved to be helpful in galvanising cadre and supporters.

Punjab CM should not be under anyone’s remote control: Rahul

HOSHIARPUR (PB), JAN 16 (PTI): In a swipe at Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he should not be under anyone’s remote control and should run the state independently.

Punjab should be run from Punjab. It should not be run from Delhi, said Gandhi while addressing a gathering here during his Bharat Jodo Yatra.

“I want to ask Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann that you are the chief minister of Punjab, Punjab should be run from Punjab only. Bhagwant Mann should not come under pressure of (Arvind) Kejriwal ji and Delhi.

“You should work independently and should not be under the remote control of anyone,” said Gandhi.

Chief Minister Mann should work independently and not be under anyone’s remote control, he said, adding it is a matter of

Punjab’s respect. Mann has been facing criticism from the opposition parties which allege that all major decisions of his government are being taken in Delhi by AAP national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. On the yatra, Gandhi said it was getting an overwhelming response and targeted the BJP government at the Centre.

Hatred and fear are being spread in the country and “brother is being pitted against brother”, he alleged.

He also attacked the BJP government over the issue of unemployment and inflation. He again said that the yatra was opening the shops of love in the market of hatred. “There is a spirit of ‘tapasya’ in the yatra. Not only me, lakhs of people walked in this yatra. What is the meaning of tapasya? We walked 3,000 km which is not a big thing. We get food and support on the way. But it was farmers, labourers,

small

“When a 12th class student takes an exam, it is his tapasya. When a farmer sows seed, it is tapasya. When a labourer builds a building, it is tapasya. But, in the country, whosoever is doing tapasya was not getting any fruit of it. And those who are not doing any tapasya, they are getting full benefit,” he said. The debt of farmers

Priyanka promises Rs 2k to every woman household head in K’taka

BENGALURU, JAN 16

(IANS): Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi has announced that if the party is voted to power in the state, Rs 2,000 would be given to every woman house head in Karnataka under the ‘Gruhalakshmi’ scheme.

Addressing the women’s convention “Na Nayaki” organized in Bengaluru on Monday, Priyanka stated that Gruhalakshmi is the bigger scheme of the “Na Nayaki” convention. “I have spoken to Opposition leader Siddaramaiah, party state president D.K. Shivakumar and state in-charge Ran -

deep Singh Surjewala that this programme should be implemented, if we are making an announcement in this regard,” she said.

Shivakumar announced that the party will implement the scheme for the women in the state, who have been hit hard by infla-

Lt Gov cannot take independent decisions: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

by the police. The AAP legislators stood there, adamant on their demand to meet Saxena. Sources in the lieutenant governor’s office said a message was sent to Kejriwal that Saxena has agreed to meet with him and his deputy. The chief minister also confirmed that he received a message that the LG was ready to meet him and his deputy.

tion. “This is our promise to you, we won’t go back on it,” he stated. Priyanka Gandhi called upon the women to make the upcoming assembly polls in the state as their election. “Make this election about you and about your future,” she said.

Life has become unaffordable, whether in terms of fees, marriage everything has become costlier. No one is holding the government accountable. All sources of jobs such as PSU’s have been shut down and given to the PM’s friends, she stated.

GST and demonetization have affected the small

scale and medium scale industries, which were also major sources of jobs. The Congress brought land reforms through late Chief Minister D. Devaraj Urs in the state. It waived loans amounting to Rs 8,000 crore, IT hub was built in Bengaluru by the Congress party, through the Anna Bhagya scheme 3.8 crore people were given rice, dal, Priyanka claimed.

Meanwhile, the ruling BJP has taken out full page advertisements regarding its various programmes for women in the state to counter the Congress charges.

Joshimath: 44 more buildings develop cracks in 24 hours

JOSHIMATH, JAN 16 (IANS): At least 44 more buildings have developed cracks in the last 24 hours in Joshimath, including the five-room rest house of the Public Works Department which is in a dilapidated condition.

The labourers in the premises were shifted to a safer place when more cracks appeared on the night of January 14.

dent of Manoharbaag ward, said that the cracks in the fields were widening. So far, cracks have appeared in 826 buildings in the city area.

On Sunday, 17 more buildings were declared unsafe by the CBRI team and were marked with red crosses.

is

Referring to the three now-repealed farm laws, Gandhi said farmers had protested against it and did not go back to their homes for more than a year.

“They did tapasya. Seven hundred people were martyred and I consider them as tapasvis. When I sought observance of twominute silence in Parliament

in their memory, it was not allowed. The government said no one got martyred,” said Gandhi.

After one year of the protest, the prime minister admitted a mistake but he did not even speak to the protesting farmers. “I can guarantee you that had the UPA government was in power and Manmohan Singh the prime minister, he would have spoken to the farmers himself,” Gandhi said. He attacked the BJP government over the issues of farm laws, demonetisation and the “wrong” implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST), and added “this government does not listen”.

The Bharat Jodo Yatra, which started from Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu on September 7, will conclude in Srinagar by January 30, with Gandhi hoisting the national flag in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

(PTI):

not rejected the proposal but has advised the government to evaluate it in totality.

The

The march started after the Delhi assembly was adjourned for the day. Kejriwal and the MLAs began the two-kilometre walk from the Vidhan Sabha amid tight security arrangements but were halted a few metres away from LG’s residence

Kejriwal, however, insisted that his MLAs be allowed to attend the meeting as well. After being stopped by the police, Kejriwal and the MLAs returned to the assembly.

“It is unfortunate that the chief minister, deputy chief minister and MLAs are waiting on the road to meet the LG but he refused to meet us,” he said.

The cracks in the banquet hall of a hotel owned by the former Head Priest of Badrinath, Bhuwan Chandra Uniyal have widened.

PWD’s Executive Engineer Surendra Patwal informed that cracks had increased in several houses in Singhdhaar ward and Manoharbaag.

Suraj Kaparwan, a resi-

District Magistrate Himanshu Khurana said that the cracks increased at the same places where they appeared earlier and no new cracks had been detected.

Significantly, the eight families who were made to evacuate their houses situated behind Hotel Mount View in view of the danger, have returned home alleging that the government was paying them less compensation as compared to the hotel owners.

NEW DELHI, JAN 16

Led by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia, AAP MLAs marched to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena’s office on Monday to protest against his objection to a proposal to send teachers to Finland for training.

LG’s office, however, asserted that it has

shopkeepers, owners of medium enterprises and the youth who do tapasya,” he said.

not waived but loans of lakhs of crores of rupees of two-three rich people are written off, he alleged and targeted the government.

Arvind Kejriwal with Manish Sisodia and other AAP MLAs during a protest march in New Delhi, Monday. (PTI)

PM Modi with JP Nadda during BJP National Executive meeting in New Delhi, Monday. (PTI)

Priyanka Gandhi speaks during her ‘Na Nayaki’ convention at Palace Grounds, in Bengaluru, Monday.

Rahul Gandhi with supporters during the party’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, in Jalandhar district, Monday. (PTI)

WPI inflation falls to 4.95%

NEW DELHI/CHENNAI,

JAN 16 (IANS): India’s wholesale price index-based (WPI) inflation for December 2022 fell to almost twoyear low of 4.95 per cent, owing to sliding food and crude as well as petroleum prices. WPI-based inflation was 5.85 per cent in November 2022. Experts also said this would result in a fall in consumer price index inflation in Q4FY23.

“Fall in prices of food articles, mineral oils, crude petroleum and natural gas, food products, textiles and chemicals & chemical products contributed to a slide in wholesale price index-based inflation,” a statement issued by the Union Commerce Ministry said.

The WPI inflation slipped below the 5 per cent mark for the first time since February 2021, when it was at 4.83 per cent.

Reacting to the latest WPI percentage Suman Chowdhury, Chief Analytical Officer, Acuite Ratings & Research said it continues to drop rapidly and at 4.95 per cent for December 2022 has subsided below 5 per cent for the first time in 21 months.

“This is clearly driven by the moderation in global

commodity prices, including that of food. The incremental relief is reflected in the disinflation of primary articles where prices saw a sequential contraction for successive two months at 1.93 per cent and 2.98 per cent in Nov-22 and Dec-22 respectively,” Chowdhury said. According to Chowdhury, it is also noteworthy that the sequential inflation in manufactured products has remained zero or in the negative zone since August 2022 reflecting a larger slowdown in manufactured goods at global level along with the correction in the

input prices. What’s encouraging to see is the quicker drop in core WPI inflation which declined to 3.19 per cent in Dec-22 from 7.03 per cent in Sep-22.

“The sharper drop in wholesale inflation is likely to translate into a steady downtrend in headline CPI inflation in Q4FY23 unless any new surprises come up. While we continue to forecast another 25 bps of rate hike by MPC (Monetary Policy Committee) in Feb23, the likelihood of a pause has increased with the latest CPI and WPI data prints,” Chowdhury said.

MUMBAI, JAN 16 (PTI):

The rupee pared initial gains and settled 21 paise lower at 81.59 (provisional) against the US dollar on Monday, tracking a rebound in the greenback overseas and a muted trend in domestic equities. Forex traders said risk aversion in international markets and sustained foreign fund outflows weighed on investor sentiments.

At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened on a positive note at 81.29 against the greenback, but pared the gains and fell to an intra-day low of 81.73. The domestic currency finally settled at 81.59, down 21 paise over its previous close. On Friday, it depreciated by 8 paise to close at 81.38 against the US dollar. The dollar index, which gauges the green -

back’s strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading 0.12 per cent higher at 102.32.

Global oil benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.49 per cent to USD 84.86 per barrel. According to Anuj Choudhary - Research Analyst at Sharekhan by BNP Paribas, the Indian rupee depreciated on Monday on weak domestic equities and a recovery in US Dollar.

The surge in crude oil prices and FII outflows also weighed on the domestic currency. The dollar declined on Friday and early today after the University of Michigan survey trimmed 1-year inflation expectations to 4 per cent in January from 4.40 per cent in December. This has raised expectations of a slower pace of rate hike by the US Federal Reserve.

Defer polls to secure one solution: TNR

(From p-1)

recalled that in the run-up to the Assembly elections in 2018, suggestions were made to the Centre before the announcement of poll dates that the polls be deferred by six months. A specific timeframe where all stakeholders could come on board was proposed. However, TNR said the Modi government decided not to set any deadline for signing the final accord with Naga groups, as reported in the media.

Global recession likely in 2023: Davos Summit Survey

DAVOS, JAN 16 (PTI): A global recession is likely in 2023, but pressures on food, energy and inflation may be peaking, the World Economic Forum said on Monday in its Chief Economists Outlook survey.

At the same time, some economies in the South Asia region, including Bangladesh and India, may benefit from global trends such as a diversification of manufacturing supply chains away from China, the report said.

The WEF said globally businesses are expected to cut costs significantly in response to economic headwinds, but chief economists are optimistic about inflation and strong balance sheets.

A majority of the World Economic Forum’s Community of Chief Economists expect to see geopolitical tensions continuing to shape the global economy, and anticipate further monetary tightening in the United States and Europe.

Almost two-thirds of chief economists believe a global recession is likely in 2023; of which 18 per cent consider it extremely likely -

more than twice as many as in the previous survey conducted in September 2022.

A third of respondents consider a global recession to be unlikely this year.

There is, however, a strong consensus that the prospects for growth in 2023 are bleak, especially in Europe and the US.

All of the chief economists surveyed expect weak or very weak growth in 2023 in Europe, while 91 per cent expect weak or very weak growth in the US. In China, expectations of growth are polarised, with respondents almost evenly split between those who expect weak or strong growth.

On inflation, the chief economists see significant variation across regions, with the proportion expecting high inflation in 2023, ranging from just 5 per cent for China to 57 per cent for Europe.

“With two-thirds of chief economists expecting a world-wide recession in 2023, the global economy is in a precarious position. The current high inflation, low growth, high debt and high fragmentation environment

reduces incentives for the investments needed to get back to growth and raise living standards for the world’s most vulnerable,” WEF Managing Director Saadia Zahidi said.

“Leaders must look beyond today’s crises to invest in food and energy innovation, education and skills development, and in job-creating, high-potential markets of tomorrow. There is no time to lose,” she added.

More broadly, the chief economists expect the global landscape to remain challenging for businesses - 100 per cent of respondents expect global geopolitical trends to continue redrawing the map of global economic activity along new geopolitical fissures and fault lines.

This wider economic shift will likely reverberate through trade, investment, labour and technology flows, creating myriad challenges and opportunities for business. One positive signal is that supply chain disruptions are not expected to cause a significant drag on business activity in 2023.

partners

CHENNAI, JAN 16

(IANS): Hiring by Indian start-ups declined by 44 per cent during the last quarter of 2022 as compared to the first quarter that year, said human resources consultancy company CIEL HR Services.

According to a study by the company, hirings among Indian start-ups had been on a steady decline.

“The hiring experienced a 44 per cent decline in hiring in Q4 compared to Q1 of 2022,” the company said.

With the start-up sector witnessing turbulent times, attrition continued to be a major roadblock for the players.

Despite high attrition rates, the average median

tenure increased to 1.9 years in start-ups vis-a-vis 1.7 years 6 months back. However, it is still not on par with other sectors like ITES (5.8 years), FMCG (4.1 years) and MSME Manufacturing (3.6 years), the study notes.

The study further stated that 64 per cent of the

respondents (start-up employees) are willing to move to a “stable job”. Amongst these respondents, 47 per cent have stated job security as a concern to move to another job, followed by reasons like no work-life balance (27 per cent) and Better Pay in established firms (26

per cent).

Decline in hiring by Indian start-ups: Study India’s exports in December 2022 dipped by 12.2 pc

Commenting on this, Aditya Narayan Mishra, Managing Director & CEO of CIEL HR Services, said, “India continues to be the front-runner of the Startup ecosystem despite the current threatening economic uncertainties. This downfall is only for a transient period, it will push the start-ups to be more serious in their overall operations and set new thresholds.”

“In this context, we see startups preferring onsite work, with 94 per cent of job openings looking for awork from office’. Startups are on the lookout for highly productive and skilled talent that can adapt quickly to the changes and stay ahead of the curve,” Mishra said.

NEW DELHI JAN 16 (PTI): India’s exports in December 2022 dipped by 12.2 per cent to USD 34.48 billion as against USD 39.27 billion in the same month last year, according to the data released by the commerce ministry on Monday.

Imports in December 2022 also declined to USD 58.24 billion as against USD 60.33 billion in the same month last year.

During April-December this fiscal the country’s overall exports rose by 9 per cent to USD 332.76 billion.

Imports during the period increased by 24.96

per cent to USD 551.7 billion.

Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal said that despite global headwinds, india’s exports have held its head high.

Maruti Suzuki hikes vehicle prices by 1.1% across models, 2nd rise in FY23

New Delhi, Jan 16 (PTI): Maruti Suzuki India on Monday said it has hiked prices of its vehicles across models by about 1.1 per cent. This is the second price hike that the carmaker is undertaking in the ongoing fiscal year, after increasing it in April 2022.

In December last year, the company had said it would hike prices of its

vehicles to offset the impact of rising input costs and make provisions to update the model range to conform to stricter emission norms which will kick in from April 2023.

“An estimated weighted average of increase across models stands at around 1.1 per cent.

This indicative figure is calculated using exshowroom prices of models in Delhi and will come into effect from January 16, 2023,” Maruti Suzuki India said in a regulatory filing.

The company sells a range of vehicles starting from entry-level small car Alto to SUV Grand Vitara which are priced between Rs 3.39 lakh and Rs 19.49 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

loans

KOLKATA, JAN 16 (PTI): The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has entered into a partnership with VFS Capital to extend loans to the MSME sector, the Kolkatabased microfinance institution said. VFS Capital will extend MSME loans upto Rs 5 lakh at 13 per cent interest rate per annum, a top company official said.

“We have tied up with SIDBI to provide loans to the SME and MSME sectors. VFS Capital expects to disburse Rs 30-40 crore under the scheme this fiscal,” MD and CEO Kuldip Maity said. The loan book of the MFI during 2022-23 is expected to be around Rs 1,100-1,200 crore from Rs 805 crore in the last financial year, he said.

Rupee falls 21 paise to close at 81.59 against US dollar

SIDBI

with VFS to extend MSME

SNIPPETS

Russia Says UK

Tanks Sent To Ukraine ‘Will Burn’

MOSCOW, JAN 16 (AGENCIES): The Kremlin said on Monday that the tanks Britain plans to send to Ukraine “will burn”, reports Reuters. Britain said on Saturday it would send 14 of its Challenger 2 main battle tanks as well as other advanced artillery support in the coming weeks. “They are using this country [Ukraine] as a tool to achieve their anti-Russian goals,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

“These tanks are burning and will burn just like the rest,” Peskov said. Peskov said the new supplies from countries like Britain and Poland would not change the situation on the ground.

19 dead, dozens injured in Senegal road crash

DAKAR, SENEGAL, JAN 16 (AP): A bus swerved to avoid hitting a donkey and collided with a truck, killing at least 19 people and injuring dozens of others in Senegal on Monday, authorities said. The collision happened near Ngeun Sarr in the country’s north. The crash involved a public bus and a transport truck, the fire department said.

The bus was apparently trying to avoid hitting a donkey, local fire department commander Lt. Ousseynou Ndiaye said.

Israeli annual CPI hits 20-yr-high of 5.3%

JERUSALEM, JAN 16 (IANS): The consumer price index (CPI) in Israel rose by 5.3% in 2022, according to data issued by the Central Bureau of Statistics on Sunday, the highest calendar-year level since 2002 when the annual inflation rate was 6.5%. This is a sharp rise from 2020 which recorded a deflation of 0.7% and 2021 when the annual CPI was 2.8%, reports Xinhua news agency. Inflation is continuing to rise even though the Israeli central bank has gradually raised the base interest rate from 0.1% in April 2022 to 3.75% at present.

6.0 magnitude earthquake hits off the coast of Indonesia

JAKARTA, JAN 16

(AGENCIES): A 6.0-magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Indonesia’s Sumatra island early Monday, the US Geological Survey reported. The epicentre of the quake was 48 kilometres (30 miles) southsoutheast of the city of Singkil in Aceh province, at a depth of 48 kilometres, USGS said.

Kremlin preparing for a drawn-out war in Ukraine

The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, called the strike, and others like it, “inhumane aggression” because it directly targeted civilians.

“There will be no impunity for these crimes,” he said in a tweet Sunday.

Asked about the strike Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Russian military doesn’t target residential buildings and suggested the Dnipro building was hit as a result of Ukrainian air defense actions. The strike on the

building came amid a wider barrage of Russian cruise missiles across Ukraine. The Ukrainian military said Sunday that it did not have the means to intercept the type of Russian missile that hit the residential building in Dnipro.

Russia,Belaruslaunchjointairforcedrills

Germany’s defence minister resigns amid Ukraine criticism

BERLIN, JAN 16 (AP): Germany’s much-criticized defence minister announced her resignation on Monday, as her department steers the massive project of modernising the country’s military and oversees expanding weapons deliveries to Ukraine.

mann told reporters in Berlin.

She said a replacement would be announced “soon.”

Hoffmann added that it was important to Scholz to ensure gender parity among ministers, but declined to comment on a possibility of a wider Cabinet reshuffle.

KYIV, UKRAINE, JAN 16

(AP): The death toll from a weekend Russian missile strike on an apartment building in the southeastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro has risen to 40, authorities said Monday, as Western analysts pointed to indications the Kremlin was preparing for a drawn-out war in Ukraine after almost 11 months of fighting.

About 1,700 people lived in the multi-story building, and search and rescue crews have worked nonstop since Saturday’s

strike to locate victims and survivors in the wreckage.

The regional administration said 39 people have been rescued so far and 30 more remained missing. Authorities said at least 75 were wounded.

The reported death toll made it the deadliest single attack on Ukrainian civilians since before the summer, according to The Associated Press-Frontline War Crimes Watch project.

Residents said the apartment tower did not house any military facilities.

The Russian and Belarusian air forces began a joint exercise Monday in Belarus, which borders Ukraine and served as a staging ground for Russia’s Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. The drills are set to run through Feb. 1, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said. Russia has sent its warplanes to Belarus for the drills.

The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank, reported signs of the Kremlin taking steps to turn its Ukraine invasion into “a major conventional war” after months of embarrassing military reversals.

What Moscow calls “a special military operation”

aimed to capture the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, within weeks and to install a Kremlin-friendly regime there, but Russian forces ultimately withdrew from around Kyiv, the think tank said. Then came a successful Ukrainian counteroffensive in recent months before the onset of winter slowed military advances.

“The Kremlin is likely preparing to conduct a decisive strategic action in the next six months intended to regain the initiative and end Ukraine’s current string of operational successes,” the Institute for the Study of War said in a report late Sunday. It noted reports indicating the Russian mili -

Flight data, voice recorders retrieved from Nepal crash site

POKHARA, NEPAL, JAN 16 (AP): Search teams retrieved the flight data and cockpit voice recorders Monday of a passenger plane that crashed on approach to a new airport in Nepal’s Himalayan foothills, officials said. At least 69 of the 72 people aboard were killed in the crash, whose cause is unknown.

Rescuers are still searching the debris, which is scattered down a 300-meter (984-foot) gorge, for the three missing people who are believed to be dead.

Many of the passengers on Sunday’s flight were returning home to Pokhara, though the city is also popular with tourists since it’s the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit hiking trail. On Monday evening, relatives and friends were

Yellen to meet Chinese FM in Switzerland

WASHINGTON, JAN 16

(AP): Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will meet with her Chinese counterpart, Vice Premier Liu He, in Switzerland on Wednesday to discuss economic developments between the two nations. The Zurich talks will be a follow-up to the November meeting between President Joe Biden and China’s Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in Bali, Indonesia. The two world leaders agreed to empower key senior officials to maintain communication.

Strains between the world’s two leading economies have been growing despite their trade ties.

KUKI COMMUNITY MEDZIPHEMA TOWN

Sub-Div. - Medziphema Dist. Chümoukedima : Nagaland - 797106

NOTE OF GRATITUDE

The Kuki Community Medziphema Town (KCMT) Nagaland, expresses profound gratitude and thanks to Lt. Col. Lunminthang Khongsai of Kumaon Regiment (Indian Army) for his Financial Assistance and Contribution rendered towards the KCMT Construction Project of Community Cemetery Waiting Shed cum Kitchen at Ward-9 Medziphema Town.

Further, the KCMT is indeed really proud and fortunate to have such a Benevolent and Charitable Officer who has a deep concern for his community brethren's welfare. May God bless him and his family also. We the KCMT will always uphold him and his family for a bountiful and abundant blessings in our prayer in the days to come.

(Paolun Thomsong) (J. Alal Doungel) Secretary Chairman Kuki Community Kuki Community Medziphema Town Medziphema Town Chümoukedima : Nagaland Chümoukedima : Nagaland

still gathered outside a local hospital.

Many consoled one another, while some shouted at officials to speed up the post mortems so they could take the bodies of their loved ones home for funerals.

It’s still not clear what

caused the crash, which took place less than a minute’s flight from the airport on a mild day with little wind.

Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority said the aircraft last made contact with the airport, which began operations only two weeks ago,

Islamic State claims church bombing in east Congo; 14 dead

KASINDI, JAN 16 (AP): Islamic extremists claimed responsibility for a bombing of a church in eastern Congo as authorities said on Monday that the toll from Sunday’s attack had risen to at least 14 dead.

The Islamic State group and its Aamaq news outlet issued statements saying that its militants had planted an explosive device inside the Pentecostal church in Kasindi and detonated it while people were praying. “Let the Congolese forces know that their continued attacks on the Mujahideen will only bring them more failure and losses,” the group said in its statement.

The extremists claimed the bomb killed 20 Chris-

tians. Congolese authorities put the toll on Monday at 14 dead and at least 63 wounded. The injured were evacuated to Beni General Hospital by the UN peacekeeping mission known as MONUSCO, authorities said.

Violence has wracked eastern Congo for decades as more than 120 armed groups and self-defense militias fight for land and power. Nearly 6 million people are internally displaced, and hundreds of thousands are facing extreme food insecurity, according to the UN. Fighters with the Allied Democratic Forces, a rebel organisation which is believed to have links to the the Islamic State group, have carried out several attacks in Kasindi.

from near Seti Gorge before crashing.

A witness who recorded footage of the plane’s descent said it looked like a normal landing until the plane suddenly veered to the left.

“I saw that, and I was shocked,” said Diwas Bohora. “I thought that today everything will be finished here after it crashes, I will also be dead.”

After it crashed, red flames erupted and the ground shook violently, Bohora said. “Seeing that scene, I was scared,” he added.

Amit Singh, an experienced pilot and founder of India’s Safety Matters Foundation, said Bohora’s video appears to show a stall, a situation in which a plane loses lift, especially likely at low airspeeds.

tary command was in “serious preparations” for an expanded mobilization effort, conserving mobilized personnel for future use, while seeking to boost military industrial production and reshuffling its command structure. That means Ukraine’s Western allies “will need to continue supporting Ukraine in the long run,” the think tank said.

NATO member nations have sought in recent days to reassure Ukraine that they will stay the course. The United Kingdom has pledged tanks and the U.S. military’s new, expanded combat training of Ukrainian forces began in Germany on Sunday.

Christine Lambrecht said in a written statement that she had submitted her resignation request to Chancellor Olaf Scholz, adding that “months of media focus on my person” had stood in the way of a factual debate about the military and Germany’s security policy.

“The valuable work of the soldiers and many people in my department must stand in the foreground,” she said. A spokesperson for Scholz said the chancellor had accepted Lambrecht’s resignation.

“The chancellor respects the decision by Ms. Lambrecht and thanks her for her good work in these difficult and challenging times,” Christiane Hoff -

The 57-year-old Lambrecht has been defence minister since Scholz became chancellor in December 2021.

Critics have long portrayed her as out of her depth. But Scholz stood by her, describing her last month as “a first-class defence minister.” Pressure on her mounted recently after an ill-judged New Year’s video message.

Lambrecht’s resignation comes at a sensitive moment, as Scholz faces mounting pressure to make another significant step forward in German military aid to Ukraine by agreeing to deliver Leopard 2 battle tanks.

dp-229/23

BEIJING, JAN 16 (AP):

A massive explosion at a chemical plant in northeastern China killed at least five people and left eight missing, state broadcaster CCTV said on Monday.

More than 30 other people were injured in the explosion on Sunday on the outskirts of the city of Panjin in Liaoning province east of the capital, Beijing.

News releases from the local government showed photos of flames and thick black smoke rising from the complex of chemical processing machinery, pipes and storage containers.

OFFICE OF THE EASTERN SCHOOL MON

MON : NAGALAND Dist. Mon. P.O : Mon, P.B.O No.25. 798621 Email : easternschoolmon@gmail.com Govt. Regn. No. PP/5395/15 Ref. No.ESM/Estt./22

WORD OF GRATITUDE

The Eastern School family had truly been blessed with an outpouring of help and support from friends, family and people we don’t know, during and after the fire broke out on 31st December 2022 at 2 : P.M.

I would like to thank the Fire and Emergency Department headed by Officer Incharge Mr. Yohon Konyak, Commanding Officer on duty Mr. Tahjan Konyak, for their timely intervention in stopping the fire, Mr. Langyem of Totok Chingnyu who has scarified his water tanker during the incident, Major Dhiraj of 27th Assam Rifles Mon Town for water tanker and his personnel for their selfless support during the incident. The Administration and the DEF Personnel, who were part of the investigation have performed their jobs professionally and efficiently and All Private Schools Association Mon for their generosity.

We would like to thank Friends, Co-workers, Neighbours, Union, Church Association who have rushed to our aid with love, prayers, caring, supportive words and generous financial assistance to the point where we feel almost overwhelmed.

Words can’t express our gratitude to each and every one mentioned and others who also have stepped forward.

We are blessed to have so many people who care for us and those who have done their jobs so well. Our hearts are full of love, respect and thankfulness to all. May the Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

With Gratitude P. BENNANG WANGSHA Administrator cum Proprietor

Firefighters carry a wounded woman out of the rubble from a building after a Russian rocket attack on Saturday. (AP)

Rescuers scour the crash site in the wreckage of a passenger plane in Pokhara, Nepal, Monday, Jan.16.

5 killed, 8 missing in China chemical plant explosion

‘RRR’ bags two awards at CCA 2023

SS Rajamouli’s

“RRR”continued its winning streak as the global blockbuster won two trophies -- Best Foreign Language Film and Best Song for “Naatu Naatu” -- at the Critics Choice Awards (CCA) here.

The Telugu magnum opus, headlined by Ram Charan and Jr NTR, was nominated in five categories at the CCA -- Best Picture, Best Director (Rajamouli), Best Foreign Language film, Best Visual Effects (V Srinivas Mohan) and Best Song (Naatu Naatu).

In the Best Foreign Language Film, “RRR” was competing against films such as “All Quiet on the Western Front”, “Argentina 1985”,”Bardo”, “False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths”,”Close” and “Decision to Leave”.

“RRR” is a pre-Independence fictional story focusing on two real-life Indian revolutionaries in

the 1920s -- Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem. Rajamouli dedicated the award to his motherland India and all the women in his life who have supported him in his creative journey.

“To all the women in my life -- my mother Rajnandani -- she thought

education was overrated and made me read story books and comics. She encouraged my creativity.

My sister-in-law Srivalli, who became a mother to me, and always encourages me to be the best version of myself,” the filmmaker said in his acceptance speech.

“My wife Rama, she

is the costume designer of my films, but more than that she is the designer of my life -- if she is not there I’m not going to be here today. To my daughters, they don’t do anything, but their smile is enough to light up my life. And finally to my motherland --India, Bharat -- Mera Bharat mahan! Jai Hind,” Rajamouli said.

The foot tapping dance number from the film “Naatu Naatu”, which won the ‘best original song-motion picture’ at the Golden Globes last week, was nominated for the CCA alongside “Carolina”(Where the Crawdads Sing), “Ciao Papa” (Guillermo del Toro’sPinocchio), “Hold My Hand” (Top Gun: Maverick), “Lift MeUp” (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever) and “New Body Rhumba”(White Noise).

The track has been composed by veteran music director MM Keeravaani

and voiced by singers Kala Bhairava and Rahul Sipligunj.

Filmed on Ram Charan and Jr NTR, “Naatu Naatu” translates to bucolic in Telugu and demonstrates the spirit of fun in country music over 4.35 breathless minutes of song and dance.

Choreographed by Prem Rakshith, it has legions of followers still trying to master its steps. It also features in the Oscars shortlist announced last month.

Last week, the movie made it to the BAFTA longlist for the ‘film not in English language’ category.

Hosted by Chelsea Handler, the 28th Annual Critics Choice Awards aired live Sunday on the CW, and offered yet another piece of the awards season puzzle after the Golden Globes revealed their picks earlier this week.

(PTI)

Piano workshop and masterclass sessions underway in Kohima

Atwo day long Piano Workshop and Masterclass Sessions got began on January 16 at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, near Kohima.

TaFMA through a press release informed that the workshop has been sponsored by Italian Embassy Culture Centre, New Delhi with Sudipto Dawn – founder, Cultural Monks as facilitator in partnership with Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), Nagaland.

Addressing the introductory session, TaFMA advisor Theja Meru thanked Nagaland’s chief minister Neiphiu Rio for his support and making this workshop possible.

He expressed his gratitude to Italian Embassy Culture Centre, New Delhi and Sudipto Dawn for providing such platform to Naga pianists and also

thanked Nagaland Piano Teachers Association (NPTA) for working hard to make the workshop a meaningful one.

Stating that resource person Gloria Campaner, came all the way from Italy to share her vast experiences, he told the Naga pianists to learn as much as possible. Italian pianist

Gloria Campaner, NPTA president, Khyochano TCK also spoke at the introductory session.

The workshop featured 40 participants and it will continue till January 17.

The introductory session was chaired by TaFMA project director Dr. Hovithal Sothu.

What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Drinking Alcohol

You Might Dodge Accidents

Alcohol plays a role in at least half of all serious trauma injuries and deaths from burns, drownings, and homicides. It’s also involved in four out of 10 fatal falls and traffic crashes, as well as suicides. You don’t have to go completely dry to be safer. Even cutting back your drinking by a third can lower the number of injuries and sick days.

Your Heart Gets Healthier

You might think that a regular glass of red wine or other alcoholic beverages might be good for your heart. But that may not be true, or true only for light sippers (less than one drink a day). If you use more than that, cutting back or quitting may lower your blood pressure, levels of fat called triglycerides, and chances of heart failure.

Your Liver May Heal Your liver’s job is to filter toxins. And alcohol is toxic to your cells. Heavy drinking -- at least 15 drinks for men and eight or more for women a week -- can take a toll on the organ and lead to fatty liver, cirrhosis, and other problems. The good news: your liver can repair itself and even regen-

erate. So it’s always worth drinking less or quitting.

You Might Drop Pounds

A glass of regular beer has about 150 calories, and a serving of wine has about 120. On top of those mostly empty calories, alcohol ramps up your appetite. It also makes you more impulsive, and less able to resist the fries and other temptations on the menu. So when you stay away from alcohol, the number on your scale may well start moving down.

Your Relationships May Improve

Enjoying alcohol socially in reasonable amounts can boost your mood and help you bond with others. But if you drink alone, or down multiple drinks a day, it could turn into an unhealthy habit. If you can’t control it, it may lead to a condition called alcohol use disorder. Giving up drinking may let you focus on your relationships, work, and health. It also may ease any depression and anxiety and elevate your self-esteem.

Lower Cancer Risks (Maybe)

It’s clear that alcohol, and heavy drinking in particular, can up your chances of several types of

cancers, including in your esophagus (food pipe), mouth, throat, and breast. What’s less clear is if quitting alcohol lowers your chances for cancer and, if so, how long it might take. Some studies suggest potential benefits, but scientists don’t know for sure.

Your Sex Life Might

Improve A bit of alcohol may make couples friskier. But anything more than a drink or so a day has the opposite effect, especially if you abuse or are addicted to alcohol. Men might have trouble getting and keeping an erection. Women’s sex drive might drop, and their vagina might get drier. Cut

down on the booze, and see if it stirs up the romance.

You’ll Sleep Better Alcohol might get you drowsy at first. But once you fall into slumber, it can wake you up repeatedly in the night. Plus, it disrupts the important REM stage of sleep and may interfere with your breathing. You also may need to get up more often to pee. Try skipping alcohol, especially in the late afternoon and evening, for more restful shut-eye.

You’ll Get Sick Less

Even just one bout of drinking too much may weaken your body’s germfighting power for up to 24 hours. Over time, large amounts of alcohol blunt

your immune system and your body’s ability to repair itself. Ease up on drinking so you may better ward off illnesses.

Lower Your Blood Pressure

If you drink a lot and your blood pressure is too high, you might be able to bring your numbers back down to normal by doing one simple thing: giving up alcohol. Even simply easing back on drinks can have a big payoff. Talk to your doctor about your numbers. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80. You have high blood pressure if yours is above 130/80.

Clear Your Brain Alcohol dependence can make it harder to think

or remember things. Over time, heavy drinking can cloud your perception of distances and volumes, or slow and impair your motor skills. It can even make it harder for you to read other people’s emotions. But if you quit, your brain seems to be able to regain some of these abilities.

Withdrawal

If you’re a heavy drinker, your body may rebel at first if you cut off all alcohol. You could

break out in cold sweats or have a racing pulse, nausea, vomiting, shaky hands, and intense anxiety. Some people even have seizures or see things that aren’t there (hallucinations). Your doctor or substance abuse therapist can offer guidance and may prescribe medication like benzodiazepines or carbamazepine to help you get through it.

Medically Reviewed by Minesh Khatri, MD

immense happiness to the Almighty God, we the Kezie Krotho, Christ the King Church, Kohima Village, convey our heartiest congratulations to our advisor Smti.

Azenuo Pienyü on being promoted to the post of Director, Rural Development, Nagaland. We wish her good health and many more achievements in her future endeavors.

The Office of the Khetoi Village Students’ Union (K.V.S.U) would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Er. Huskha Yeptho , S/o Lt. Kughai Yeptho and Lt. Dokhuli Awomi of Khetoi Village on being promoted to the post of Superintending Engineer, Department of Water Resource, Nagaland.

As you embark your new office may God give you the strength and wisdom to carry out the mandated tasks on your shoulder.

SS Kartikeya and SS Rajamouli pose for the photographers at the CCA 2023 ceremony. (CriticsChoice/Twitter)

Theja Meru with Gloria Campaner and other officials and participants of Piano Workshop on January 16.

BENONI (SOUTH AFRICA) JAN 16 (IANS):

Captain Shafali Verma hammered a blistering 78 while her opening partner Shweta Sehrawat carried her bat through for 74 not out to set up India’s massive 122-run victory over UAE in their second Group D match of ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup at the Willowmoore Park on Monday.

Led by Shafali and Shweta’s entertaining knocks and bolstered by Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 49, India managed to post a mammoth 219/3 in their 20 overs, the first time a team in the tournament posted a 200+ score in an innings.

In reply, the Indian bowlers led by pacers Titas Sadhu and Shabnam M.D. were brilliant upfront, picking a wicket each, and immaculate with their line and length, restricting UAE to just 97/5 in their 20 overs.

Left-arm spinner Mannat Kashyap and leg-spinner Parshavi Chopra also picked a wicket each as India now sit on top of the Group D points table with two wins in as many matches. Their final match of Group D

will be against Scotland on Wednesday.

Having been put in to bat first, Shafali, Shweta and Richa produced knocks that were aggressive and never let the momentum shift away at any stage in the match.

Shafali and Shweta easily breezed to sharing a firstwicket partnership of 111.

While Shweta dropped anchor, Shafali was the fierce aggressor apart from

some exquisite timing, hitting 12 fours and four sixes at a strike-rate of 229.41 in her 34-ball 78, before falling in the ninth over off Indhuja Nandakumar.

Shweta then took over and began hitting boundaries for fun, collecting ten overall to be unbeaten on 74 off 49 balls, with Richa joining in the fun too by hitting five fours and two sixes in her 29-ball 49.

35th ZASA ‘kukami trophy’ held in Zbto

On a day of carnage for the bowlers’ economy rates and UAE fielders dropping catches, medium pacer Samaira Dharnidharka’s 1/33 off her four overs was the nearest to reining the rampant Indians in. The UAE threatened to respond aggressively in a tall chase of 220, with opener and captain Theerta Satish (16) slamming Shabnam for four fours in an opening over which would go for 17 runs.

But the moment she was dismissed off the fifth ball of that over by Shabnam, it was all downhill for the UAE. While they resisted being bundled out, a combination of accurate bowling by India and scoreboard pressure meant they never had a realistic chance of winning the match.

Brief scores: India 219/3 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 78, Shweta Sehrawat 74 not out; Samaira Dharnidharka 1-33, Indhuja Nandakumar 1-47) beat UAE 97/5 in 20 overs (Mahika Gaur 26, Lavanya Keny 24; Titas Sadhu 1-14, Parshavi Chopra 1-13) by 122 runs

DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): 24th MBE Zhuikhu Memorial Trophy Gold Cup, which began on January 11, organised by Western Sumi Sports Association (WSSA) at Shokhuvi Village, concluded on Monday.

In football men, Pimla team emerged as the champion while Kuhoxu team finished as runner-up.

East Dimapur ‘B’ won the badminton men with East Dimapur ‘A’ as runnerup.

In badminton women, HASSA team defeated Shokhuvi team to win the title.

In volleyball men, Kikheyi team beat HASSA team in the final to lift the cup. In Football (Under 16), HASSA team defeated Khaghaboto team to clinch the trophy.

Janata Dal (United) Nagaland state unit secretary general Kitoho S Rotokha, who graced the closing programme, said there were many talented sportspersons in Western Sumi area, but lamented that due to lack of proper

sports infrastructure many could not make it to the top level.

He also informed that Khelo India was supposed to provide infrastructural development and training in different fields. However, alleged due to “partiality from the government”, development in sports was not done properly.

All India Snooker Open: Laxman win title

MUMBAI, JAN 16 (IANS): Laxman Rawat of Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB) finally tasted success as he overcame his teammate Aditya Mehta 9-6 in an entertaining best-of-17frame final of the National Sports Club of India (NSCI) All India Snooker Open 2023 here on Monday.

DIMAPUR, JAN 16

(NPN): Lizu Old Sports Association (LOSA) emerged as the winner of 35th Zunheboto Area Sports Association (ZASA) “Kukami trophy”, which began on January 9 and culminated at Zunheboto District Sports Council Complex Ground on January 16. This is sec-

ond consecutive win for LOSA. Natha New Sports Association finished first runner-up.

Vinoka K Rotokha was awarded highest scorer for having scored 10 goals this season.

Meanwhile, in the volleyball final, Yezami Sports Association emerged as

champion after defeating Kawoto sports association.

The closing ceremony was graced by NDPP Zunheboto region president Khehoshe Yepthomi as guest of honour while the inaugural session was graced by Kivikhu Achumi, retired director agriculture, as chief guest.

Rawat, who had finished runner-up losing to Sourav Kothari (PSPB) in the final of the last edition, came up trumps in the Rs 13 lakh prize-money event played at the NSCI billiards hall here.

Rawat was richer by Rs 3 lakh, while Mehta received a cash prize of Rs 1.5 lakh.

The summit clash contested between the accomplished Indian Oil cueists Rawat and Mehta witnessed top-quality positive play as both were aggressive and went for their shots and there was not a single dull moment throughout the 15 frames.

Arsenal extend lead in Premier League

LONDON, JAN 16

(IANS): Arsenal strengthened their grip on the Premier League with a 2-0 win away to North London rivals Tottenham.

Arsenal’s win, coupled with the result of the Manchester derby, puts Mikel Arteta’s side eight points clear of Manchester City and nine ahead of Newcastle and Manchester United, reports Xinhua news agency.

The game was only 13 minutes on when Hugo Lloris put Arsenal ahead with the first own goal of his career after he palmed Bukayo Saka’s deflected effort from a narrow-angle into his own net.

Martin Odegaard doubled Arsenal’s lead in the 36th minute, placing a perfect left foot shot wide of Lloris after another surging run from Saka.

Tottenham tried to get

back on level terms after the break, but with Aaron Ramsdale in excellent form, Arsenal were generally comfortable and results elsewhere mean Spurs’ topfour hopes have suffered an important setback.

Liverpool continued to struggle and lost what coach Jurgen Klopp described as

their “worst” performance 3-0 away to Brighton, who outplayed them from start to finish.

Solly March scored twice and Danny Welbeck added a third as Brighton moved above Liverpool in the league table. March’s goals came in the 46th and 53rd minutes and Welbeck

rounded off the win late in the game.

There were protests against the club directors before, during and after the match at Goodison Park where Everton surrendered a lead to lose 2-1 to bottomof-the-table Southampton.

Andre Onana had put Everton ahead in the 39th minute, but two second-half goals from James WardProwse -- the second an excellent free kick, gave Southampton their first league win under Nathan Jones and increased the pressure on Everton coach Frank Lampard, who admitted it was a “difficult time,” for the club.

West Ham coach David Moyes is also in danger after West Ham dropped into the bottom three following after Daniel Podence’s 48th goal continued Wolverhampton’s recovery under Julen Lopetegui.

However, the 31-yearold Rawat, who was a little bit more consistent, managed to wrest the initiative and enjoy a 5-3 lead at the break.

On resumption, Rawat was a bit scratchy and Mehta did well to win two frames to draw level at 5-all and stay in the fight. But, Rawat came roaring back winning the next three frames to surge to an 8-5 lead, getting within a distance of winning one more frame to settle the issue.

Mehta managed to pocket the 14th frame, but could not stop Rawat from winning the next to clinch victory with the frame scores reading 0-110, 74-42, 83-7, 0-89, 104-0, 55-87, 87-0, 112-0, 28-89, 54-62, 69-1, 83-45, 89-24, 20-65, and 62-12 in favour of the latter.

Rawat who was in good nick was unfortunate to narrowly miss on constructing the maximum on the eighth frame.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Rotokha encouraged players to hone their talents and work hard, saying he was ready to sponsor any youth serious in sports. He urged the youth to be determined and disciplined in order to achieve bigger dreams of reaching national and international level.

He further encouraged youth to avoid intoxi-

cants so as to maintain a fit body required for an active sportsperson.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by Akai Swu and Tunatoli V Swu, and special number was presented by Kato Swu and vote of thanks was proposed by Head GB Nikhekhu village and WSSA Advisor Isawoto.

WDCA trial camp for Under-19

DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): Wokha District Cricket Association (WDCA) has informed that a trial camp for Under -19 (Boys) would begin at Local Ground Wokha from January 18, 2023 for the selection of ‘Wokha District Under-19 Team for the coming 3rd Late G Rio Memorial Under-19 (Boys) Inter District Cricket Tournament, which would be held at Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Sovima. WDCA president Khamongo Humtsoe has informed all interested cricketers born on or after September 1, 2004 to contact Lima Temzuk, Coach (87878 94030) and Romokhon Humtsoe (96151 12904) for further information.’

8th Unity Cup T20 cricket tourney

DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): LMCC, Hurricane CC, Titans, Gorkha XI, Ghorapatti warriors, Prodigies and Bokajan warriors have stormed into the quarterfinals of 8th Unity Cup T20 cricket tournament being organized by Nepali Baptist Church Chümoukedima Youth Sports Ministry. The Final would be played on January 21, 2023. LMCC won the match by 19 runs against URRA unit; Hurricane CC won the match by 60 runs against Whiskers CC, Titans CC won the match by 6 wickets against Deccan strikers.

We,

on 18/12/2022.

We

wc-07/23

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Loving

to thank everyone individually for your thoughtfulness and prayers but we humbly and sincerely pray for God’s grace to be upon you always.

Loving children, in-laws, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and relatives

the family members of Late Zuchumo Lotha would like to extend our sincere and deepest gratitude to all the individuals and well wishers who stood by our side physically, emotionally, financially and spiritually on the day of his demise

deeply regret our inability to thank each and every individual in person but we remain forever indebted. It is our humble prayer that Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Loving wife, sons, daughters and relatives

India post a mammoth total against UAE

Staff Reporter

Players of HASSA team and Khaghaboto team in action. (Inset) Kitoho S Rotokha speaking at the closing session. (NP)

Players with officials and others at the 35th ZASA.

Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, left, celebrates with Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka after scoring

Laxman Rawat

Nadal, Swiatek, Medvedev advance at Australian Open

MELBOURNE, JAN 16

(AP): Rafael Nadal never truly seemed in danger of becoming the first Australian Open defending men’s champion to lose in the first round since his current coach, Carlos Moya, managed to beat Boris Becker a quarter of a century ago.

Still, this was not a vintage performance by Nadal, who came into Monday’s matchup against 21-yearold Jack Draper with an 0-2 record in 2023 and six losses in his past seven outings overall. After nearly two hours of so-so play, Nadal found himself even at a set apiece.

He appeared to be pulling away, taking advantage of his opponent’s bout with cramps on an afternoon with the temperature at about 85 degrees Fahrenheit (30 Celsius), when suddenly Draper went up by a break in the fourth set. From there,

though, Nadal would not drop another game, beginning his pursuit of a recordextending 23rd Grand Slam championship with a 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 win that took more than 3 1/2 hours in Rod Laver Arena.

Iga Swiatek went into her first-round Australian Open match with strong memories of what a tough go of it she had against Jule

Niemeier the last time they met. So the No. 1-ranked Swiatek came in ready for another tussle, and possibly another three-setter, but grabbed the last four games to beat Niemeier 6-4, 7-5 in Rod Laver Arena.

Determined, Swiatek said, to “think about what I could do to push her back,” the 21-year-old from Poland took control from the base-

line with her forehand late to improve to 15-1 in openers at Grand Slam tournaments, a .938 winning percentage that leads active women.

When they faced each other in the U.S. Open’s fourth round in September, Swiatek needed to come back from a set and a break down before getting past Niemeier in three sets en route to claiming a third

major trophy.

Niemeier – a 22-yearold German who is ranked 69th and was a Wimbledon quarterfinalist last year –broke to begin the second set, led it 5-3 and served for it at 5-4. But Swiatek smacked a big forehand to force one error and earn a break point, then did the same to convert it.

Swiatek broke again with yet another error forced by a forehand to end the match. She raised her right fist, looked toward her coach and sports psychologist in the stands and let out a yell. When Swiatek sat on the sideline, she closed her eyes and breathed deeply.

How close was this one? Swiatek made only two more winners (20-18) and just one fewer unforced error (29-28).

The owner of three major titles, and a semifinalist at the Australian Open a

year ago, Swiatek now will face 84th-ranked Camila Osorio.

Two-time losing finalist Daniil Medvedev fired up his bid to go one better at the Australian Open with a straight-sets demolition of Marcos Giron on Monday.

The Russian seventh seed, almost a foot taller than his opponent, blasted past the 56th-ranked American 6-0, 6-1, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena in just 1hr 36mins.

His reward is a secondround clash with Australian wildcard John Millman, who came through a fivesetter against Switzerland’s Marc-Andrea Huesler.

Medvedev was a losing finalist at the last two Australian Opens, to Novak Djokovic in 2021 and then in a demoralising five-set defeat 12 months ago against Rafael Nadal after leading by two sets.

Hockey WC: Aus held to 3-3 draw by Argentina; Netherlands crush NZ

BHUBANSEWAR, JAN 16 (PTI): Three-time champions Australia and heavyweights Argentina played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup here on Monday.

Hayward Jeremy opened the scoring for Australia by converting a penalty corner in the ninth minute but Argentina’s Domene Tomas restored parity in the 18th minute.

Beale Daniel then produced a field goal to put Australia in the lead but Argentina were once again back in the game courtesy Casella Maico’s 32nd minute strike.

Playing catch-up all evening, Argentina took the

Aizawl register season’s first away win

NEW DELHI, JAN 16

(PTI): Aizawl FC claimed their first away win of the season with a 2-1 victory over bottom-placed side Sudeva Delhi FC in the ILeague here on Monday.

Aizawl were looking comfortable with goals from Henry Kisekka and Lalchhanhima Sailo till the 86th minute. But Sudeva substitute Carlos Pao scored his second goal of the season to set up a tight finish.

It was one of Sudeva Delhi’s better performances of the season, but they had to come out empty-handed once again. They were the better side in the first half but fell apart after the breather as Ugandan striker Kisekka scored Aizawl’s first goal in the 53rd minute, calmly poking the ball past Sachin Jha at the home goal.

Sailo added a second in the 70th minute with a bril-

liant curling strike into the top corner from the edge of the box. It was the teenager’s third goal of the season, and Tharpuia’s fifth assist. He is now the joint highest assistprovider with Sreenidi Dec-

can’s Rosenberg Gabriel. Sudeva could count themselves unlucky as they hit the post and the crossbar once each and had 64 per cent ball possession right through the match.

lead for the first time when Ferreiro Martin scored in the 48th minute.

They looked on course to clinch all three points on offer but Govers Blake scored in the dying minutes for Australia as the two sides split points. In the other Pool A match, Charlet Victor converted two penalty corners to help France defeat South Africa 2-1.

South Africa’s lone goal came from the stick of Beauchamp Connor as he converted a penalty corner in the 15th minute.

In the Pool C matches in Rourkela, three-time champions Netherlands thrashed New Zealand 4-0, while Malaysia eked out a 3-2 win over Chile.

India Open 2023: Feel like playing at home, says Marin

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): Olympic champion Carolina Marin on the eve of the India Open Super 750 tournament, said she feels at home when playing in India.

“I feel like I am playing at home. Even though the crowd is Indian, they support me. I am looking forward to playing here.”

“Last year was really really tough. I was coming from injury. No active badminton player is (still) playing after two serious injuries but I didn’t want to give up because I have something on my mind. I want to win another medal at the Olympics,” Marin said on Monday.

Marin, who will open against Japan’s Nozomi Okuhara in India Open, said she is in good shape and will look to improve.

Barcelona beat Real Madrid in Spanish Super Cup final

after an assist by Gavi in a breakaway just before the end of the first half.

Gavi also set up Pedri’s close-range goal in another breakaway in the 69th.

Karim Benzema scored a consolation for Madrid late in stoppage time.

This was Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti’s first defeat in a final since 2014.

Barcelona have now won the Super Cup a record 14 times. Madrid have 12 to their name.

Madrid eliminated Barcelona in last season’s semi-finals, but the Spanish powerhouses had never met in the final of the revamped competition.

Brinkman Thierry scored two field goals in the opening quarter while Bijen Koen and Hoedemakers Tjep added two more goals to help Netherlands inch closer to a quarterfinals spot.

Earlier, in the opening match of the day, Rahim Razie, Hamsani Ashran and Sumantri Norsyafiq scored for Malaysia, while Amoroso Juan and Rodriguez Martin registered their names on the scoring sheet for Chile.

Having won both their games, Netherlands sit pretty atop Pool C with six points. New Zealand and Malaysia are second and third respectively with Chile in fourth place.

Emma Raducanu and Cameron Norrie were winners on the first day of the Australian Open but Jack Draper struggled with cramp during a four-set loss to Rafael Nadal.

The 21-year-old Draper took the second set against the defending champion before fading in a 7-5 2-6 6-4 6-1 defeat while Raducanu put concerns over an ankle injury behind her to set up a clash with Coco Gauff.

A “devastated” Nick Kyrgios pulled out of the Australian Open on Monday — the day before he was scheduled to play his first-round singles match — because of an injured left knee that needs arthroscopic surgery.

Frances Tiafoe won his first-round match at the Australian Open on Monday but it was the American’s outrageously colourful kit which set tongues wagging.

each

first title since former player Xavi took over as the team’s coach in 2021, and since Lionel Messi left for Paris Saint-Germain.

Robert

Barcelona’s

It

Gavi opened the scoring in the 33rd minute from close range after a pass by Lewandowski, who doubled the lead

The Super Cup used to be played between the Spanish league champion and the Copa del Rey winner. Now the runners-up in both competitions also participate.

Madrid played as the league champion and Barcelona as the league runner-up.

Australia and Argentina players in action during the FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup 2023 Pool A match in Bhubaneswar, Monday. (PTI)

RIYADH, JAN 16 (AGENCIES): Barcelona have won the Spanish Super Cup for the first time since the competition was revamped and moved to Saudi Arabia with a 3-1 victory over Real Madrid.

Lewandowski, Gavi and Pedri scored a goal

at King Fahd Stadium in Riyadh on Sunday to give Barcelona its first Super Cup trophy since 2018, and the first since the tournament’s Final-Four format began in 2020 in a lucrative deal for the Spanish football federation.

was also

Barcelona players celebrate with a trophy after they won the final of the Spanish Super Cup between Barcelona and Real Madrid, in Riyadh, Sunday. (AP/PTI)

Aizawl FC clinched their first away win of the season with a 2-1

Rafael Nadal

Iga Swiatek

Daniil Medvedev