27 Jan 2023

Nagaland Post

Ukraine lauds Western move on tanks; Russia downplays

Rybakina, Sabalenka in women’s final

India displays military prowess on R-Day Nagaland an equal partner in nation building: Gov

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(PTI): India’s military prowess infused with a spirit of ‘aatmanirbharta’ and diverse and vibrant cultural heritage were showcased on the Kartavya Path as the nation celebrated its 74th Republic Day on Thursday.

‘Nari Shakti’ was predominantly the theme of the celebrations with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of other dignitaries joining people and members of the armed forces in marking the august occasion.

Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was the chief guest at the ceremonial event. A combined band and marching contingent of the Egyptian Armed Forces also took part in the parade that started around 10:30 am and ended close to noon after a fly-past.

The Egyptian contingent included 144 soldiers representing the main

Lineman electrocuted in Dimapur

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, JAN 26

(NPN): In a tragic incident, a power department assistant lineman, on routine maintenance duty, was electrocuted and badly burnt after coming in contact with high power line at Bank Colony here on Thursday morning.

Eyewitnesses alleged that the deceased, a local male, remained unattended for more than hour hanging on from the electrical pole.

DCP (Crime) Khekali

Y Sema informed that the incident occurred around 10:20 am and the deceased (around 46 years) was a resident of Thilixu village.

A resident said the lineman was working without any safety equipment and that the incident could have been avoided if there was proper coordination among the department personnel.

Executive engineer Dimapur electrical division

Y Akito Sema, who also rushed to the spot, assured that the department would be investigating the matter.

Gov Bishu greetings

DIMAPUR, JAN 26 (NPN): Nagaland governor

Prof. Jagdish Mukhi has extended Bishu greetings to the Kachari community and the people of Nagaland. Mukhi said that the post-harvest festival foster love, reconciliation and courtesy and was also a time when the rich cultural and spiritual practices are in full display and they rejoice and seek blessings.

branches of the Egyptian Armed Forces and it was led by Col Mahmoud Mohamed Abdelfattah Elkharasawy.

The ceremony commenced with Prime Minister Modi visiting the National War Memorial and paying tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath.

According to tradition, the national flag was unfurled followed by the national anthem with a booming 21-gun salute.

However, the ceremonial salute this year was given with 105-mm Indian field

guns, which replaced the vintage 25-pounder guns, reflecting upon the growing ‘aatmanirbharta’ in defence.

Nine Agniveers -- six men and three women -were part of the Navy’s marching contingent during the celebrations, a senior official said.

Shallow fog lowered visibility at the Kartavya Path as spectators strained their eyes to watch aerial manoeuvres by a battery of 50 aircraft, including 45 from the Indian Air Force (IAF). They flew in different formations such as

‘Bheem’, ‘Vajraang’, ‘Baaz’, ‘Tiranga’, ‘Garuda’, ‘Amrit’ and ‘Trishul’.

The fly-past included MiG-29, Su-30 MKI and Rafale fighters as well as C-130 Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster transport planes. The Navy’s IL-38 was also showcased at the event for the first and perhaps the last time.

The military assets which were displayed during the parade included made-in-India equipment, showing the spirit of ‘aatmanirbhar Bharat’, officials said.

ENPO delegation to meet MHA team soon; reaffirms to abstain from polls

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 26 (NPN):

Even as the State gears up for Assembly elections scheduled on February 27, Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) expressed its determination to abstain from participating in the forthcoming elections until talks with the Central government reached a logical conclusion.

The decision was reaffirmed on Thursday at the joint consultative meeting held at Konyak Morung, Dimapur.

Speaking to Naga -

land Post, ENPO president Tsapikiu Sangtam said the joint consultative meet was attended by leaders of seven eastern tribal bodies, Eastern Nagaland Women’s Organisation (ENWO), Eastern Nagaland Students’ Federation (ENSF) and the Talk Team.

He mentioned that the meeting discussed the proposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), adding that a delegation of the ENPO would be meeting the MHA constituted committee soon.

Sangtam however declined to divulge the pro -

posal of the MHA panel, but reiterated that the August 26, 2022 resolution to abstain from assembly election still stood until talks between MHA team and ENPO reached a logical conclusion.

It may be mentioned that the decision of ENPO was fully backed by seven tribal bodies, who have also declared to abstain from election till the demand for ‘Frontier Nagaland’ was met, even as Eastern Nagaland Legislators’ Union (ENLU) declared its decision to participate in the election.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 26 (NPN): Nagaland joined rest of the country in celebrating the 74th Republic Day on Thursday with pomp and splendour at the New Secretariat Plaza here, where Nagaland governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi addressed the gathering.

Addressing the gathering after unfurling the national flag and taking the salute, governor Mukhi said that the State had achieved significant milestones, becoming an equal and contributing partner in the nation-building process.

He called for exploring further and tap into the potentials of the State’s resources, both natural and human, in order to enhance productivity of people in all sectors. Mukhi emphasized on empowerment of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other weaker sections of the society to ensure that they too should

find a place in the country’s growth and development.

He said while pursuing the goal of high growth rates, there was a need to ensure that all people of the State benefitted from it. The governor also stressed on reducing developmental gap between urban and rural. And to make this happen, he said it was imperative to use technology and make it relevant to the remotest and most vulnerable groups of people in the society. He pointed out that this demanded creativity,

good connectivity and deeprootedness of oneself to the society and being conscious of its problems, limitations and aspirations.

He suggested that the agriculture sector could also rely more on technological advancement, through which mechanisation and optimisation of tools and implements could be realized for better harvest.

Asserting that Nagas were second to none in human resources and noting that there were already many success stories, Mukhi urged

Nagas to be focused and persistent in their pursuit for knowledge and service towards community and humanity. He appealed to citizens for a national movement for development, suggesting that citizens’ participation could be in many important areas like reaching the unreached, feedback on public services, human resource development, entrepreneurship, role of homemakers, environment development and youth participation in the political system.

74th Republic Day celebrated in Dimapur

Staff Reporter DIMAPUR, JAN 26 (NPN): Dimapur district joined the rest of the country in celebrating the 74th Republic Day at Dimapur District Sports Complex (DDSC) here on Thursday with PHED minister Jacob Zhimomi unfurling the tricolour flag.

Extending greetings to the people, Jacob Zhimomi said that Nagaland had made significant strides in terms of development. He pointed out that from a meagre 22% in 1961, the literacy rate in the State stood at 80.11% in 2021 as per the National Statistical

office data. He claimed that the State’s average literacy rate was higher than the national average. Jacob said that Nagaland was second to none and that there were many opportunities that were coming in the way. He however said that one needed to be focused and persis -

No review of NDPP-BJP seat sharing deal: Rio

Correspondent/Staff Reporter

KOHIMA/DIMAPUR, JAN 26 (NPN): A midst discontentment over ticket distribution triggered by the 40:20 seat-sharing deal between NDPP and BJP, both alliance partners have categorically reaffirmed that there was no question of reviewing the 40(NDPP):20 (BJP) seat sharing deal.

This was confirmed by Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio, while talking to media persons on the sidelines of 74th Republic Day celebration at Nagaland Civil Secretariat Plaza, Kohima on Thursday. Rio made it unambiguously

clear that there was no question of any change in the agreement since it based on consensus reached between the two parties.

He said “seat sharing has already been decided and there is nothing more to change. We stand by that decision. Everybody was there when the decision was

taken and therefore, we will stand by it.”

On the constituencies where the coalition partners would be contesting, Rio said announcement in that regard would be made within this month itself.

(Some sources within the NDPP said the allocation of assembly seats to the al-

liance candidates will be set in motion on January 29.)

Rio also clarified that since the seat-sharing formula was already in place, there was no question of any so-called “friendly contest between NDPP and BJP” as speculated in a section of the local media. He said both alliance partners would help each other in the seats where their candidates were contesting.

Responding to a query over constituent tribes of ENPO issuing diktats to its members to abstain from the election, Rio said simply said he had nothing to say regarding such decisions.

He merely pointed out

that a constitutional provision exists to have a government by electing members through a democratic process. He hoped that good sense would prevail.

NDPP-BJP seat sharing final: Jacob

Minister of PHE Jacob Zhimomi reiterated that there will be no question of reviewing seat sharing between NDPP(40) and BJP(20) as decided by leaders of both the two parties. He said this while talking with reporters on the sidelines of Republic Day celebrations at Dimapur Thursday.

India’s first intranasal Covid vaccine ‘iNCOVACC’ launched

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(PTI): Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday unveiled the world’s first intranasal Covid vaccine iNCOVACC and said it marks a “glorious tribute to the call for Atmanirbhar Bharat”.

He launched the vaccine in the presence of Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh.

The Union health ministry said the roll-out of iNCOVACC is expected to begin in private hospitals which have placed advance orders for the same.

Although the initial manufacturing capacity of

several million doses per annum has been established, it can be scaled up to a billion doses as required.

iNCOVACC is priced at Rs 325 per dose for large volume procurement by state governments and the Government of India. The

company, in a statement, said the vaccine is now available on CoWIN, and priced at Rs 800 for private markets and Rs 325 for supplies to the central and state governments. Developed by Bharat Biotech, iNCOVACC is the

world’s first intranasal COVID-19 vaccine to receive approval for the primary two-dose schedule, and as a heterologous booster dose for adults. It is developed by the Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) in collaboration with the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a PSU under the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology.

Congratulating the BBIL team and the Department of Biotechnology for bringing about the vaccine, he stated that “being the world’s first intra-nasal COVID-19 vaccine, this marks

a glorious tribute to the call for Atmanirbhar Bharat”.

The health minister added that India’s vaccine manufacturing and innovation capability is appreciated all over the world as it has made a mark in producing quality and affordable medicines.

Congratulating BBIL for innovating another vaccine in collaboration with BIRAC, Jitendra Singh said, “India has taken a lead in developing vaccines and medicines for diseases common in the developing world.”

“Next step will be to develop vaccines for noncommunicable diseases,” he added.

tent in the pursuit of highest knowledge and service towards community and humanity.

“Each of us in whatever profession we are in, we better perform with our socially enterprising mindset and give back to the community and the nation”, the minister stated.

Jacob also reiterated the State government’s commitment to ensuring peace and progress. He also highlighted various welfare initiatives of the government.

Earlier, Jacob inspected the parade comprising of eight contingents from Commissioner of Police Dimapur, 15th NAP (IR) Ma-

hila Bn, Home Guard, ExServicemen, NCC Dimapur, Govt College, Govt High School, Burma Camp; Govt High School, Lingrijan, 43 AR Band Platoon,led by parade Commander Imkongsangba Jamir, ACP East Dimapur and 2 I/c, Neichuzo Rio (ABI Police Commissionerate).

Other highlights of the programme included a march past, cultural dance by Aiko Cultural Troupe Pimla, special song by students of Holy Cross Higher Secondary School, dance by students of Pranab Vidyabith Higher Secondary School and inauguration of stalls by the minister.

Govt steps up maintenance plan of NHs,

NEW DELHI, JAN 26 (AGENCIES):

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for maintenance of National Highways (NHs) to ensure that no NH stretch is left “unattended”.

The ministry has prescribed three types of maintenance contracts – short term, performance based and improvement of riding quality or periodic renewals, a Times of India report stated.

While there has been a manifold increase in highway construction in the past eight-and-half years, the maintenance of NHs in some sections of the 1.46 lakh km network has been a matter of concern.

There have been several instances where the notified National Highway stretches are not maintained as the detailed project reports (DPRs) for their expansion have been prepared or are being finalised or where a contractor has got the project, but work has not started.

The ministry said in such cases, the highway owning agencies should go for “short-term maintenance” contracts for a maximum of one year. For stretches where

road condition is good and structurally sound, and no expansion is planned for the next 5-7 years, the agencies will opt for “performancebased maintenance contract”. In this case, the payment is linked to the performance of the maintenance contractor as set in the contract.

The national highwya stretches, which are not covered under these two categories or are recently declared NHs, the agencies can go for periodic renewal or improvement of riding quality works.

“It may be ensured that all the NH stretches in a particular state or UT are either covered under development work, DLP (defect liability period) or any of the above maintenance contracts. All maintenance contracts of developed stretches should be initiated well before the closure of defect liability period so that just after DLP, one maintenance contract is already and the stretch is not left unattended,” the circular issued by the ministry stated. DLP is the period for which the construction company building a project is responsible for deficiencies in maintenance and structures as well.

to see no stretch remains unattended

Jacob Zhimomi (NP)

(File photo) Union Home minister Amit Shah and Neiphiu Rio.

President Droupadi Murmu with chief guest Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes the salute during the 74th Republic Day Parade and K 9 Vajra-T (SP) on display. (PTI)

(L) Governor Mukhi inspecting the parade contingents and (R) Mukhi along with Neiphiu Rio visiting the exhibition stalls put up at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat Plaza on Thursday. (DIPR)

Mansukh Mandaviya with Jitendra Singh and other dignitaries at the launch of iNCOVACC in Delhi, Thursday. (PTI)

Foundation stone laid for fuel outlet at Central Jail

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, JAN 26

(NPN): In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the Northeast, foundation stone for a petrol pump for Prison Department was laid opposite Central Jail here on Thursday by director general (DG) of Police, Prisons & Home Guards Rupin Sharma.

Set up in association with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the petrol pump would use the services of convicts who had been released as well as those still serving their sentences, thereby providing them a scope for rehabilitation post their release.

Addressing the gathering, Sharma said the Prison department had planned the initiative in 2016-17 and that he had met chairman of IOC in 2022 in this regard, while a series of meetings were also held between department and IOC officials.

He disclosed that construction of the petrol pump would start in the first week of February and that it was expected to be completed within three months. He mentioned that

prison inmates faced many hardships once they were released into the community. Social stigmatisation for being an ex-convict acted as a major barrier to successful community reintegration, he added.

The DG disclosed that the department has received approval from the government to start another such project at District Jail here.

He remarked that people often did not realise how difficult it was to run a jail. There was a substantial number of people in the jail requiring food, shelter, bathrooms, health facilities, etc. Though the authorities did not have enough funds to meet all these expenses, he noted that due to intervention of the judiciary and civil society groups, there was a lot of emphasis on

Dzüleke Citizens’ Day celebrated

KOHIMA, JAN 26 (NPN): The 17th Dzüleke Citizens’ Day was celebrated on Wednesday at Dzüleke village council hall with additional secretary, Labour & Employment Skill Development Entrepreneurship (L&ESDE) Kovi Meyase, as the special guest. In his address, Meyase remarked on the rich flora and fauna of the village and suggested that more conservative efforts were needed to keep it for posterity. While urging the village people to continue in their endeavour to protect and preserve the village areas, Meyase said protecting the environment was a global issue faced by people from all part of the world. He observed that the village should also increase in its efforts to produce and market more of its organic vegetables produces. Meanwhile, he advised the younger folks and youths to follow the good habits of respecting their elders, seek their blessings, listen to their guidance and wisdom. (Correspondent)

Mengujuma celebrates Rüpfhünuo Day

KOHIMA, JAN 26 (NPN): Mengujuma village celebrated the 54th Rüpfhünuo Day on Wednesday at the village premises. Speaking at the occasion, Mengujuma village council chairman Vitsalhou Kesiezie called upon the villagers to stay united and work in unison for the welfare and all round development of the village. He also stressed on the need to uphold the good legacy of the forefathers and keep their invaluable contributions and wisdoms intact. Head GB of the village, Neigwetuo Mor, also exhorted the gathering. The programme was chaired by council vice chairman Ketoulhoukho Kuotsu while welcome address was delivered by council secretary Keneingulie Secü. Mengujuma Baptist Church senior pastor, Lhourovi Seyie and ACRC chairman, Rev. Dr. Kecha Seyie, prayed for the programme. (Correspondent)

NTCP Zunheboto seize tobacco products

work would be carried out in another two or three months.

improving the condition of prison and prisoners.

He hoped that the upcoming project would help generate some profit for improving the prison and inmates.

Sharma also disclosed that more than 50 inmates and prison staff were given skill development training, including tailoring, for three months.

Referring to the projects on pipeline, he said National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) and Hindustan Petroleum had donated one unit each of baking machinery. Of these, one had been kept at Central Jail, Dimapur and the other had already been sent to District Jail, Mon. He stated that electrification and other necessary

Kikheto visits NHAK; interacts with docs, nurses

DIMAPUR: Commissioner and Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Y. Kikheto Sema paid an informal visit to Naga Hospital Authority, Kohima (NHAK) on January 26 and inspected the department of ICU and the hub of the 10-bed ICU which was recently inaugurated by chief minister, Neiphiu Rio. According to a DIPR report, during the visit, Kikheto interacted with the doctors and nurses and had a video conference with the medical professionals from other districts. Sema was accompanied by secretary, finance & labour, employment and skill development, Sushil Kumar Patel; principal director, school education and CEO, state health authority, K. Thavaseelan; principal director, directorate of health & family welfare, Dr. Temjentsungla, and other medical/technical professionals.

In his speech, IOC Assam Oil Division general manager (retail) Raja Muni Tamrakar acknowledged the initiative of the DG for rehabilitating the inmates and for welfare of the prison staff. He confirmed this would be the first such retail outlet in the Northeast. He mentioned that many petrol pumps had been set up in association with police and prisons department, all of which had been running successfully. Tamrakar revealed that petrol pumps were now technologically more advanced and had several facilities. He said they were all computerised, controlled via an auto machine system that connected them to IOC through Intrusion Detection and Prevention System (IDPS) so that there was t ransparency in fuel delivery.

The programme was chaired by Central Jail, Dimapur jailor Dr. Obed Yanthan and vote of thanks was delivered by AIG (Prisons) Khushito Awomi.

DIMAPUR: National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) Zunheboto district representatives and police personnel carried out enforcement drive on sale of tobacco products on January 24 in and around the educational institutions at Zunheboto Town.

A press release by Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Zunheboto office informed that team after conducting the raid, penalized five defaulters and seized tobacco products from the shops

district representative and police personnel with the seized tobacco products.

falling within the restricted areas. The seized tobacco products were burnt and destroyed on the same day in the presence of all the team members, informed CMO office.

Further, NTCP Zunheboto informed that as per Section 6 COTPA ACT, selling of any kind of tobacco products within 100 metres of school area is restricted. The team further stated that it would continue to conduct such enforcement drives all over the district.

Meetings, programmes & info for ensuing general election to NLA

DIMAPUR: In view of the ensuing general election to the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), various meetings and programmes are being organised by respective district and sub-division administrations and political parties. Information is also disseminated for the smooth conduct of the election, scheduled to be held on February 27.

NCP holds high level consultative meeting: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Nagaland held a highlevel consultative meeting on January 24 at Ura Hotel, Conference Hall. In a press release, NCP Nagaland press secretary informed that the meeting discussed several key issues regarding the upcoming general selection and the various strategies that the party would undertake for its success in the election. The meeting chaired

As we grieve the sad demise of our father Late N. SHAYAO KONYAK , words are inadequate to express our deepest heartfelt gratitude and appreciation and our indebtedness to all individuals, friends, well wishers, churches and unions for your unreserved contributions physically, materially and financially and unconditional moral support through words of comfort and encouragement at the sudden demise on 18th January, 2023

We would like to express our gratitude from depth of our hearts for your prayers, presence and assistance during the time of our grief.

Though we are unable to thank each and everyone personally in person it is our ardent prayer to our Almighty God to bless you all.

by NCP general secretary, Joseph D Naga was addressed by NCP state president, Vanthungo Odyuo and attended by senior party leaders from different parts of the state.

DC Longleng issues directives: In connection with reports of government servants indulging in political activities and canvassing for various political parties/candidates, Deputy Commissioner (DC) and District Election Officer (DEO) Longleng, Dharam Raj has directed all government servant under Longleng district to refrain from indulging in all forms of activities related to political parties/candidates as per Rule 24 (1) (2) of Nagaland Government Servants

Conduct Rules, 1968. According to a DIPR report, the DC and DEO has directed all government servants under Longleng district to maintain

absolute political neutrality. If any specific complaints are received, DC and DEO warned that stern action would be initiated against the delinquent government servant.

Further, the DC and DEO Longleng has also notified all the printing presses in and around Longleng to strictly adhere to the guidelines regarding printing of election posters, pamphlets, etc. The printing press has been directed to clearly indicate in the materials (election posters, pamphlets, etc.) the names and publishers or any such other materials printed by them. DC and DEO said that it shall furnish four copies of the printed materials, along with the declaration of the publishers, hereby attached within three days of the printing thereof to the office of the DC & DEO, Longleng.

NTCP Zunheboto

Rupin Sharma with IOC and Prison officials. (NP)

74th Republic Day celebrated across Nagaland

Correspondents/DIPR

DIMAPUR, JAN 26

(NPN): Nagaland joined the rest of the country in celebrating the 74th Republic Day by organising ceremonial events across the state. The day was marked by unfurling of the National Flag by dignitaries, vibrant cultural display, parade and exhibition stalls set up by various departments.

ZUNHEBOTO

Speaker, Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), Sharingain Longkumer graced the 74th Republic Day celebration at Local ground, Zunheboto as the special guest. In his speech, Longkumer said that people should remember with gratitude the enormous efforts and sacrifices of millions of freedom fighters whose blood and sweat gave India its independence and created the Republic. Special songs were presented by Kinitoli and Mughasheli and Natha Old Totimi. Altogether there were eight parade contingents. The special guest later inaugurated the exhibition stalls. To mark the “International Year of Millets 2023”, ATMA Zunheboto also exhibited various varieties of millets from the district. Various agricultural tools were displayed, and demonstration on oyster mushroom production was briefed by ATMA staffs. Altogether six departments from agriculture and allied participated in the exhibition.

MOKOKCHUNG

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Imkongmeren Sports complex,

Q.: Will power improve in Nagaland after changing equipments?

Mokokchung with advisor, Food & Civil Supplies, LM&CP and Taxes, Pukhayi Sumi, who unfurled the National Flag and delivered the Republic Day speech. Nine parade contingents DEF Mokokchung, 2nd NAP, 13 NAP (IR), NHG, pensioner (defense personnel), NCC MGHSS, NCC QMHSS, Bharat Scout and Guide and Band Platoon 2nd NAP Alichen) took part in the march past. The celebration was marked by the entertainment extravaganza which included presentation of cultural dances by Cultural Club Khensa Village and Naga Wadir Club Ungma and exhibition tug of war between Watsu Mungdang and government lady officers; uniform personnel and non-uniform personnel. Later, Pukhayi Sumi also inaugurated the exhibition stalls being set up by different departments.

WOKHA

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at the local ground Wokha with minister, rural development and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir as the special guest. Highlights of the programme included the presentation of folk songs by the Wokha Town Lakhuti Women Cultural troupe and traditional rice pounding by the Longsa Women Cultural troupe. Eight parade contingents DEF, 7th NAP, Home Guards & Civil Defence, ExService Man, NCC (Man & Women cadet), and Bharat Scout & Guides took part in March past. The chief guest later in the day inaugurated the stalls put up by various departments, NGOs, and self-help groups. A football exhibition match was also played between WDFA and DC XI. Earlier in the morning, the feeding of jail inmates was carried out by DLSA, Mhondamo Memorial District Hospital by DCCI, Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital by SBI, and 40th Assam Rifles hospital by ANTA Wokha unit.

TUENSANG

NEXT POLL

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Deputy speaker NLA, Yangseo graced the 74th Republic Day celebration at the Parade Ground Tuensang as the special guest. Yangseo unfurled the National Flag and took Rashtriya salute while the parade review was done by Superintendent of Police Tuensang, Kanchan Kumar Kandpal. Five parade contingents namely DEF Tuensang, 3rd NAP, V.G Tuensang Village, V.G Chingmelen, ex-servicemen participated in the march past and band platoon. Changen Cultural Club and Sangli Cultural Troupe participated in the cultural event of the celebration.

PHEK Advisor for Sericulture, Excise & Minority Affairs, Zhaleo Rio graced the 74th Republic Day celebration at local ground, Phek Headquarters. He unfurled the National Flag which was followed by Rashtriya Salute and National Anthem. The special guest also inspected the parade contingents and read out the Republic Day

speech. Later, Zhaleo inaugurated the exhibition stalls put up by agriculture and allied departments. DEF Phek, 5th NAP, Home Guard, NCC Contingent were parade contingents at the celebration. Other highlights of the programme were presentation of folk dance and songs by Jericho II Youth and Jericho II Women Cultural Troupe.

PEREN

In Peren, the minister Housing & Mechanical, Tongpang Ozukum unfurled the National Flag, took Rashtriya Salute from the parade contingents, and delivered the Republic Day speech at Deputy Commissioner’s Office Complex, Peren HQ. The Parade Contingents from DEF Peren, 9th NAP (IR) Bn. Saijang, Government Higher Secondary School Peren and Peren Government College took part in the march past. Republic Day was also celebrated at ADC Office, Jalukie where T.L Kiusumong Tikhir, ADC Jalukie unfurled the National Flag and delivered his speech.

MON

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at local ground, Mon Town with minister, Health & Family Welfare, S. Pangnyu Phom as special guest, who unfurled the National Flag, inspected the parade and delivered the Republic Day speech. The March Past Contingents included the 6th NAP; DEF Mon; Village Guards; 6th NAP Pipe Band; Ex-servicemen; Wangkhao Government College; GHSS Mon Town ‘A’ and GHSS Mon Town ‘D’. The event also witnessed a song by Aman N Konyak and cultural dance by Mon Vale College Cultural Troupe. Later, in the evening, the event concluded with prize distribution and display of band followed by “Beating of Retreat Ceremony” by 6th NAP Pipe Band.

KIPHIRE

Kiphire celebrated the 74th Republic Day at Public Ground Kiphire with Yitachu, MLA, who unfurled the National Flag and read out the Republic Day speech. The highlights of the day include cultural presentation by Kisetong village cultural troupe and Nilejo cultural troupe Sitimi village and special number by Khumtsase Sangtam. Various stalls were also set up by different departments and NGOs. Exhibition stalls were put up by Agri & Allied Departments, KVK, Election, Veterinary and Medical Department. Commemorating the day, visitation of District Hospital and District Jail was carried out by ADS Supply department, MS and DWO respectively while Shalom Children House was visited by DPO (LRD) and DPRO Kiphire.

LONGLENG

In Longleng, the 74th Republic Day celebration was graced by Advisor, Horticulture & Border Affairs, Mhathung Yanthan at the public ground, Longleng. The special guest unfurled the national flag and took

the salute and inspected the six parade contingents and delivered the Republic Day speech. The parade contingents were DEF Longleng, 12th NAP (IR) Chingtok, Village Guards of Pongo, Bauthung Government Higher Secondary School, Yingli College, and Pipe Band 12 NAP (IR) Chingtok. Modern Folk Fusion by Aman and Friends, the inauguration of exhibition stalls by the special guest, and a volleyball exhibition match between team Naro and team Manthei were the highlights of the day-long event.

CHÜMOUKEDIMA:

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Chümoukedima Town public ground with minister, planning and coordination, parliamentary affairs and land revenue, Neiba Kronu as the special guest. On arrival, the minister unfurled the National flag, inspected the parade contingents and read out the Republic Day speech. The participants of the parade contingents were 1st NAP; 15th NAP Mahila Battalion; Tetso College; Nagaland Police Central School; Government Higher Sec School, Chumu; St. Joseph University; Ex-Servicemen; Pipe Band, Team of Assam Rifle Training center. Folk dance was performed by Chekiye Cultural Troupe. The celebration ended with a retreat by the 1st NAP Battalion, Chumoukedima.

NOKLAK Advisor, village guards, and information & public relations, S. Keoshu Yinchunger unfurled the National flag and took the Rashtriya Salute from five contingents during the 74th Republic Day celebration at public ground, Noklak Hq. The parade contingents were DEF/NAP, Village Guard Pathso, Village Guard Wansoi, Ex-Serviceman, and Assam Rifle Pipe Band. The advisor also inaugurated the exhibition stalls set up by the agri-allied departments, horticulture department, fisher & aquatic resources department, and Noklak District Handloom & Handicrafts Council. Registration of the CMHIS stall was also set up. Other highlights of the day were, tug-of-war between the DEF Noklak and district administration.

To mark the occasion, the institutional visit was done by the Department of Food & Civil Supplies to Adora Children’s Home and the Indian Red Cross Society visited District Hospital, Noklak. And in the evening season, a football exhibition match was played between DPDB Noklak and Khiamniungan Sports Council.

The day-long celebration ended with the beating of Retreat by the 3rd NAP Noklak.

TSEMIYNU

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Rengma Sports Association Ground Tseminyu Old Town with minister, agriculture & cooperation G. Kaito as the special guest. The minister unfurled the national flag and inspected the parade

contingents, B COY 4th NAP. ‘C’ COY 10th (IR) BN, NCC Baptist Higher Secondary School Tseminyu, NCC DBS Tseminyu, GHSS Tseminyu, and GHS New Town Tseminyu, while the national anthem was rendered by Christian School Tseminyu students. Other highlights of the programme were a folk dance by Kandinu cultural troupe and a folk song by GBs Union Tseminyu. Minister Kaito also inaugurated exhibition stalls set up by various departments.

NIULAND

The 74th Republic Day celebration at Niuland Town was graced by minister, Geology & Mining, Soil & Water Conservation, V. Kashiho Sangtam as the special guest. On arrival, the special guest unfurled the National Flag and took the Rashtriya salute from the 8th NAP and five other contingents under the command of ACP James Niuland. Other highlights of the celebration included special presentation by JNV Nihokhu and Kuhoxu village children ministry, folk song and folk dance by education colony (women) Niuland Town and P Vizheto village respectively.

SHAMATOR Shamator celebrated Republic Day with advisor prison, printing, and stationery, H. Haiying as special guest. He unfurled the National Flag, inspected the contingents, and read out the Republic Day speech. The parade contingents from DEF Shamator, 14th IR, V. G Shamator, GHSS Shamator, and St. Xavier School Shamator took part in the march past. Highlights of the celebration included a patriotic song by St. Xavier School Shamator, Taekwondo demonstration by Taekwondo Association Shamator, cultural exhibition by Thopun Cultural Troupe Shamator followed by the inauguration of the stalls.

PUGHOBOTO

Pughobto sub-division celebrated Republic Day at the Additional Deputy Commissioner’s office premises, Pughoboto. ADC Pughoboto Tiameren Chang unfurled the National Flag and took the Rashtriya salute from the A Coy 8 NAP Bn which was followed by National Anthem and Republic Day address. The celebration ended with the Beating of Retreat.

LONGKHIM

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at ADC’s Office Longkhim with EAC Longkhim, Er. Keyileuteing Ndang as the special guest. After unfurling the National Flag, he read out the Republic Day speech. At the function, a cultural song was presented by the Sangvi Cultural club Longkhim.

THONOKNYU

Thonoknyu Headquarters under Noklak District celebrated 74th Republic Day at SDO (Civil) Office Campus. The National Flag was unfurled by SDO (C) C. Wangan Phom and the Rashtriya Salute was done by NP, NAP, and VGs.

JAKHAMA

Jakhama Sub-Division Office celebrated the 74th Republic Day by hoisting the National Flag in all the government offices.

AGHUNATO:

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Aghunato with Additional Deputy Commissioner Aghunato, Pakon Phom as the special guest.

WAKCHING

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at the Wakching sub-division under Mon district at Wakching SDO (C)’s office, where SDO (C), James Renbi Kikon unfurled the national flag and took the Salute from Nagaland Police.

SATAKHA

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Satakha with SDO Civil Satakha Kupeusing Meru at ADC office compound Satakha.

CHOZUBA

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at ADC office complex under Phek district, wherein ADC Chozuba, Imokokla unfurled the national flag, took the Rashtriya salute and delivered the Republic Day speech. The national anthem was rendered by Government High School, Yoruba. Hoisting of the national flag in government offices and institutions and beating of retreat by the 5th NAP (Chozuba) were other highlights of the daylong celebration.

CHANGTONGYA

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at SDO (C) Office complex, Changtongya Town with SDO (C) Changtongya Town, Rorheu Peseyie as special guest, who unfurled the National Flag and read out the Republic Day speech.

PFUTSERO

Pfutsero sub-division celebrated the 74th Republic Day at ADC Office premises with ADC Pfutsero, Jopheth Woch as special guest. He unfurled the National Flag, took the Rashtriya Salute and read out the Republic Day speech. National Anthem was sung by Baptist School, a patriotic song by Nazareth School Pfutsero, and a cultural item was performed by the Hills Brothers.

TIZIT

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Tizit with ADC Tizit, Keyirangding Hegui as the special guest. He unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at the ADC Office complex, Tizit. During the celebration, the National Anthem was presented by Holy Trinity School, Tizit. The day was also marked by the hoisting of the National Flag in all government offices, and educational and private institutions and the beating of retreat by 6th NAP Bn Tizit.

MEDZIPHEMA

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at ADC Office Complex Medziphema, Sub-Division with ADC Medziphema Imsongmeren. The ADC unfurled the national flag and took the Rashtriya Salute along with the singing of the National Anthem and thereafter de-

livered the Republic Day Speech. The parade during the Rashtriya Salute took part by RHQ Commissioner of Police Dimapur. A cultural presentation by the Medziphema Village Angami Cultural Troops.

PUNGRO

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at ADC Office, Pungro, wherein EAC, Pungro, Yitachu Thur unfurled the National Flag.

MELURI

The 74th Republic Day celebration was celebrated at Meluri on local ground with ADC Meluri, Albert Ezung as the special guest, who unfurled the national flag and read the republic day speech. Five parade contingents namely, Village Guards of Meluri; Christian Mission Higher Secondary, Meluri; St. Xavier Higher Secondary School, Meluri; Government Higher Secondary School Meluri and VG pipe band of Meluri took part in the march past. The ADC also inaugurated the exhibition stalls which were set by SDAO Meluri, NSRLM of Meluri, Pochury Hoho and Forest department. Other highlights of the day included a special song by Vilo Kajiri and Thsünguji Nyusou, folk dances by Khumiasu Village and Riehuope Village.

SEYOCHUNG

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Seyochung ADC HQ office complex with ADC Seyochung, Renbemo Ezung as the special guest. He unfurled the National flag and delivered the Republic Day speech. The National Anthem was sung by students St. Mary’s High School, Seyochung town.

CHEN

Chen Headquarters celebrated Republic Day at Mini SDO (C) Complex Chen Town, wherein SDO (C) Chen, L. Mongo Khiamniungan unfurled the National Flag and took the salute from NVG Chen Town and read out the Republic Day speech.

ABOI

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated at Public Ground Aboi with ADC, Phuleshe K Yepthomi as special guest, who unfurled the national flag and delivered the Republic Day speech. Four contingents namely 11th IR, Aboi; VG, Ngangching; NCC, GHSS, Aboi and Longsang Memorial School, Aboi took part in the March Past. Other highlights were cultural folk song by Konyak Nyupuh Seko Khong (KNSK), Aboi, and a special song by Government Polytechnic Aboi (GPA) Boys. The special guest also inaugurated stalls set up by different departments. The day-long celebration ended with beating of retreat by DEF Aboi.

CHIEPHOBOZOU

Chiephobozou subdivision celebrated Republic Day at ADC Office premises, Chiephobozou, wherein ADC Chiephobozou, Alemyapang Longchar unfurled the National flag, took the Rashtriya Salute and read out the Republic Day’s speech.

Awards conferred on Republic Day 2023

The following have been awarded for:

President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service as Announced on Independence Day, 2021:

K. Martin Pienyu, IPS, IGP (INT), Nagaland, Kohima.

For Award of President’s Police Medal, Announced on Republic Day, 2022: Rothihu Tetseo, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Nagaland.

For Award of President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service, (Announced on Independence Day, 2021): Vekhosa Chakhesang NPS, Commandant, 2nd Bn.

For Award of President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service, Announced on Republic Day, 2022: Rankathung Vikram Ezung, NPS, AIGP (OPS), PHQ.

Governor’s Gold Medal (announcement only)

1. Er. P.Tiakaba Yimchunger , Jr. Engineer (MIS), Office of the Executive Engineer Transmission Division, Dimapur.

2. Dr. Anungla Imdong Phom , Addl. Director, DUDA.

3. Aotula T. Imchen, IPS, S.P. Mokokchung. Gov Commendation Certificate awardees (announced on R-Day, 2023)

1. Vechikhoyi Lohe, Principal, GHSS, Pfutsero.

2. Lucy Doungel , UBI, DEF, Phek.

3. Thejazelie Kire, UBSI, Int. Estt.

4. Ronchamo Kikon, Subject Matter Specialist, Directorate of Agriculture.

5. S.Yaongsanglee Chang, Regional Transport Officer, Kohima.

6. Dr. Fr. Francis Sebastian Cheerangal, Principal, St. Xavier College, Jalukie, Peren.

7. Karen Yepthomi, Principal, GHSS, Chumoukedima.

Closing ceremony of 74th Republic Day celebration

The closing programme of the 74th Republic Day state level function was held at Nagaland Civil Secretariat Plaza, Kohima with Home Commissioner, Abhijit Sinha as the special guest. In parade contingents, Assam Police bagged the first position while 15th NAP (IR) Mahila BN and 37 Bn BSF were awarded second and third positions respectively. In the exhibition stalls, agriculture department bagged the first position while second and third were bagged by department of land resources and department of veterinary & animal husbandry respectively. An exhibition football match was played between IGS Academy Girls XI and NASA ‘C’ Girls XI. A band display was presented by the Nagaland Police Training School Brass Band, 1 Assam Rifles pipe band, Nagaland Police Auxiliary Brass Band and the 15th NAP (IR) Mahila Pipe Band. The programme concluded with beating of retreat.

Sharingain Longkumer, Zunheboto Pukhayi Sumi, Mokokchung Metsubo Jamir, Wokha Yangseo, Tuensang Zhaleo Rio, Phek Tongpang Ozukum, Peren S. Pangnyu Phom, Mon Yitachu, Kiphire

Mhathung Yanthan, Longleng Neiba Kronu, Chümoukedima S. Keoshu Yinchunger, Noklak G. Kaito, Tsemiynu V. Kashiho Sangtam, Niuland H. Haiying, Shamator Abhijit Sinha and others during the closing ceremony of the 74th Republic Day in Kohima. (DIPR)

Northeast states observe Republic Day with patriotic fervour

NORTHEAST, JAN 26 (PTI/AGENCIES/COR-

RESPONDENT): Along with the rest of the country, the eight sisters states of the Northeast observed with patriotic fervour. State-level celebrations were held in the capitals while the day was also observed at the district level.

Assam: Describing ULFA (I) as the last mile in Assam’s path to peace, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday urged members of the outfit to return to the mainstream and be a part of the development process. Once it comes for talks, Assam will transform into an “island of peace”, he said.

Speaking at an event to celebrate the 74th Republic Day, Sarma said, “In the state’s path to peace, ULFA (I) is the last target left. It is not the same Assam as it was when the ULFA was formed. Today, the state is fast moving on the path of development. The government is working on poverty alleviation.”

“There has been a change in the mindset of people and this change should reflect in the ULFA (I), too. I appeal to them to return and work together for laying the foundation of a progressive Assam,” he said.

Sarma said he is not questioning anyone’s patriotism, but the new generation has the right to grow up in a peaceful environment.

While protecting the identity of the people is essential, Assam must also be able to grow at the same time, he maintained.

The chief minister also mentioned about the peace accords with Bodo, Karbi and Adivasi groups in the last few years, which has ensured “return of peace to the state”.

Referring to implementation of clauses of the Bodo peace accord, Sarma announced that villages with 80 per cent or more of its inhabitants in Dhekiajuli, Sootea, Gohpur and

neighbouring areas will be brought under the Bodoland Territorial Region.

The hardliner faction ULFA (Independent), led by its ‘commander-in-chief’ Paresh Barua, has so far remained outside the peace parleys.

The outfit had called for boycott and a general strike against Republic Day celebrations, as it has done earlier as well.

Sarma also asserted that his government was working towards an allround and inclusive growth of the state, while also making special efforts to place it prominently on the global map by highlighting the rich culture and heritage.

“We have been working relentlessly for development of our state in all sectors, be it social, cultural or economic,” the CM said.

To present the state’s rich culture before the world, a massive event is being planned on April 14, marking the Assamese new year, “when 10,000-15,000 ‘dhulias’ (drum players) and ‘nasonis’ (dancers) will assemble for a Bihu performance, aiming to enter the Guinness Book of World Records”, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the event.

Sarma also announced a Rs 300-crore project for the Kamakhya Temple to develop it into a top religious tourism destination.

Manipur: India’s 74th Republic Day was celebrated in Manipur on Thursday amid separate total shutdown strikes given by the rebel groups resorting to armed struggle to regain sovereignty of the erstwhile Kingdom.

The celebrations held amid tight security arrangements were peaceful as no untoward incident was reported from any part of the state.

The state level Republic Day celebration was held in Imphal’s Kangla fort with state Governor La Ganesan unfurling the national flag

and receiving salutes from 76 different march-past contingents.

The celebration began with the Governor inspecting a guard of honour accorded by a contingent of 6th Battalion Manipur Rifles (MR) commanded by Additional Superintendent of Police (Central Motor Transport Workshop) T Bishwajit Singh.

Later, the Governor unfurled the national flag amidst national anthem played by a band of 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles.

He also decorated officers and personnel of state police, Manipur Central Jail and Manipur Fire Service department with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service, Police Medal for Gallantry on the occasion of Independence Day, 2021, Police Medal for Meritorious Service on the occasion of Independence Day, 2021, Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Police Training, 2020-2021, President Correctional Service Medal for Distinguished Service, President Correctional Service Medals for Meritorious Service and Fire Service Medal for Meritorious Service.

He further took salute from 76 march-past contingents, including different band contingents, led by Commandant of 2nd Battalion Manipur Rifles Victoria Yengkhom.

20 different cultural troupes and tableaux of 14 different departments of the state government also took part in marching contingents following the march-past.

Delivering the vote of thanks after the parade, chief minister N Biren Singh highlighted the seriousness of the state government on its war on drugs campaign. He informed that the five personnel of the state police arrested recently with a huge consignment of illegal drugs were terminated as an exemplary punishment with immediate effect.

Tripura tribal leader who tackled insurgency on Padma list

AGARTALA, JAN 26

(PTI): Bikram Bahadur

Jamatia, who had played an important role in promoting an indigenous people’s ‘movement’ against the bloody insurgency which had hit this Northeastern state is being honoured by the Padma Shri award in the social work category.

Bikram Bahadur had worked worked to build up opinion among tribals against the second phase of insurgency in Tripura during late 1990’s.

As Acra (head) of Jamatia Hoda, an apex Sociocultural-religious body of the Jamatias, he used to visit militancy infested tribal areas ignoring threat and motivated villagers to stand up against the insurgency pointing out that the fighting had brought a virtual end to development work in tribal areas.

The banned outfitsNational Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) and other small insurgent groups had fanned

out in tribal areas of Tripura, bringing terror in their wake. The Centre had to send Army to the northeastern state to tackle the insurgency and several police stations were brought under the Disturbed Area Act.

Jamatia, who has been promoting indigenous faith, cultural and heritage for decades, had played the role of ambassador too against alleged conversion in the state’s hilly areas.

“I am overwhelmed by the news that I was chosen for the Padma Shri award by the Central government for works that I have rendered to the society for many decades from now”, the 86-year old social re -

Singh, then warned that there will be no compromise against anyone found involved in illegal drugs and poppy plantations. The chief minister wished the people of the state on the occasion and further thanked everyone participating, including students, civil police, security forces, ex-servicemen, people from different communities, civil societies, etc. in the successful celebration of the occasion.

He recounted his memories of participating in the Republic Day march past parade during his college days and said “It is under the Indian Constitution that the citizens of the country enjoy their rights and responsibilities.”

Stating that India has assumed the presidency of the G-20, he said that Manipur will also be hosting meetings as part of the presidency as in other parts of the country. The chief minister further urged support from the people for the successful hosting of the meetings.

While boycotting the day, the rebel groups also imposed separate total shutdowns which ended at 6pm.

(Correspondent)

Arunachal: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday exhorted the people of the state to join hands with the government in its crusade against the drug menace.

He appealed to the leaders of various communities to take part in programmes launched by his government for prevention of substance abuse, especially by the youth.

“We are committed to achieving ‘Drug free Arunachal’ through various means, but all of these measures will require multi-sectoral coordination among departments, and more importantly cooperation from the society,” the chief minister said after unfurling the Tricolour at I G Park here on the occasion of the country’s 74th Republic Day. A colourful parade dis-

playing military might was followed by cultural performances at the programme.

Khandu, on the occasion, also awarded three gold medals, seven silver and 16 commendation certificates to persons in various fields for the meritorious work.

The CM said that a special ‘anti-narcotics task force’ has been formed and a ‘narcotic helpline’ instituted to generate information about the menace and break the supply chain.

“I appeal to the people to help this endeavour by generating intelligence for targeted action,” he said.

Citing the success story of Medo village in Lohit district, where pumpkin cultivation has replaced illegal poppy seed farming, the chief minister urged people to intensify the war against opium. He advised them to take up alternative cash crop farming like ginger, mustard and tea.

Talking about the development initiatives in the state, Khandu said that his government has successfully completed 365 projects in various sectors at an investment of Rs 11,399.49 crore, as promised last year.

Khandu expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sanctioning various projects in the state, including the strategic Arunachal Frontier Highway, benefitting its population.

“In seventy years since Independence, only 20,000 kilometers of roads were built in the state, with an average of 280 km per year, but in the past seven years alone, 12,000 km more have been added,” Khandu noted.

“I am also happy to announce that the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has approved an additional 2,574 km of highways for the state worth Rs 44,000 crore,” he stated.

Sikkim: The country’s 74th Republic Day was on Thursday celebrated with fervour in Sikkim.

A state level function was held at Kamzor stadium where the the Sikkim Governor Governor Ganga Prasad unfurled the national tricolour and took a guard of honours from the state police personnel.

The Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, his ministers and senior officials were present on the occasion.

Earlier, the Governor, in his message to the people of Sikkim, said that the Himalayan state was progressing well on various parameters of development for which it has been awarded numerous national awards in the field of tourism, health, education, rural development, environmental management, etc.

“My government has achieved all these feats by consistently adhering to the national perspective and the policy directives of the Government of India. Our approach is to develop a comprehensive developmental strategy designed to achieve the national objectives, paired with our own specific developmental needs aim,” Prasad said.

Sikkim has done better than the nation’s average in some health indicators with the Infant mortality rate in the state coming down to five per 1000 live births as compared to 28 per 1000 live births in the country, he said, adding that the crude death rate in Sikkim stood at 4.1 against 6 in the country.

Mizoram: People of Mizoram joined the nation in celebrating the 74th Republic Day with patriotic fervour. The celebrations began early morning with the unfurling of the National Flag at government, semi-government offices and residential and commercial premises across the state, reports AIR news.

The main program was held in the morning at Assam Rifles ground in Aizawl.

In the program, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati unfurled the National Flag, along with playing drums by

the armed forces and singing the National Anthem by all participants. Contingents of para-military forces and police personnel joined the March Past and parade.

On the occasion, the Governor paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and extended greetings to all people of the state. Addressing the people, he said his Government has marched on in the implementation of the Socio Economic Development Policy. He pointed out various initiatives of his government in implementing flagship schemes towards inclusive development of the people of the state.

The Governor said the government continues its focus on Rural Development programmes. Under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, more than 2 lakh households received Job Cards. The Ministry of Rural Development has released 323 crore rupees under the scheme. Also, under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, various initiatives under MGNREGA are being conducted. Referring to the beginning of Amrit Kaal, the Governor said efforts have been taken to achieve inclusive development, climate action, energy transition, productivity enhancement & investment.

Tripura: In Tripura, 74th Republic Day is being celebrated across the state with patriotic fervor. Celebrations began with the unfurling of the National Flag at residential houses, government and semi-government offices, business complexes, and street corners, reports AIR news.

The state-level main program was organized at Assam Rifles ground in Agartala where Governor Satyadeo Narain Arya unfurled the tricolour and took salute of the impressive march past. Conveying greetings to the people, he paid tributes to the heroes of India’s freedom struggle

who sacrificed their lives for Independence. Contingents of Para Military forces, Tripura Police, TSR, women police, and NCC participated in the Republic Day parade.

Thousands of children from various schools performed cultural skits of patriotic genre and highlighted the cultural diversity of the country by staging traditional and folk dances and acrobatics of Yoga demonstrations.

Meghalaya : Along with the rest of the country, Meghalaya celebrated the 74th Republic Day on January 26.

In the function held at Polo Grounds, Meghalaya Governor, Brig. (Dr.) B D Mishra (Retd) unfurled the National Flag and took the salute of the marching contingents comprising the CRPF, East Khasi Hills DEF, 1st MLP Battalion, SF10, Indian Reserve Battalion from Arunachal Pradesh, NCC Boys and Girls, Indian Red Cross Society, Unitarian Higher Secondary School-Puriang, JNV-Mawphlang and Brass Band of Border Wing Home Guards, reports meghalayamonitor.com.

President’s Home Guards medals

During the programme, announcement was made for the President’s Home Guards & Civil Defence Medal For Meritorious Service to Homesingh Khongjoh, Havildar (HG), Bipul Khongwir, Havildar (HG), Ambrush A. Sangma, Havildar (HG) and Pynkhambor Harris Khongsngi, Senior Staff Officer (CD).

President’s Police Medals Announcement was also made for the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service to Prodenson Sangma, Havildar, 1st MLP Bn, Mawiong and Police Medal for Meritorious Service to Upendra Mothey, ABSI, 2nd MLP Bn, Goeragre,Kolan Swer, Havildar and Ram Bahadur Sonar, ABC/32, Tura.

former told PTI on Thursday over telephone. Jamatia lives in his native village- Moharcherra, a village under Teliamura subdivision of Khowai district.

“I was not aware of my nomination. It was District Magistrate (DM), Khowai, DK Chakama, who telephoned me on Wednesday night and informed me of the development. At his invitation, I joined the Republic Day programme organised by the district administration on Thursday as the chief guest”, he said.

Former Minister NC Debbarma was also chosen for the prestigious award posthumously this year for his contribution in the field of ‘public affairs’.

Chief Minister Manik Saha, Tribal Welfare Minister Rampada Jamatia and former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for choosing Bikram Bahadur Jamatia and NC Debbarma for the prestigious award.

SHILLONG, JAN 26 (PTI): Meghalaya Governor BD Mishra on Thursday said the state will be hosting a meeting of the G20 nations in April to discuss how space partnerships can contribute to the economy of the countries.

India has decided to host around 200 G20 meetings across the country during its yearlong Presidency of the influential group. India assumed the Presidency of the G20 for one year from December 1, 2022.

“As part of the G20 programme, Shillong will be hosting the Space-20 program on April 17-18,” Mishra said, addressing the Republic Day parade at the Polo Ground here.

He said the programme here would be in continuation of the Space Economy Leaders Meeting held by the National Space Agencies of the G20 countries in 2020.

The governor said the meeting was initiated to make space economy a formal agenda item of G20 summits to discuss how

space partnerships can contribute to the growth of the economy of the G20 nations. The G20 or Group of 20 is an intergovernmental forum of the world’s major developed and developing economies.

It comprises Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, the US, and the European Union (EU).

Lauding the peaceful law and order situation in Meghalaya, Governor BD Mishra said talks with the outlawed armed militant group, the HNLC, has start-

ed and the Centre is supporting it.

“In a historic development, the HNLC has expressed its willingness for unconditional talks within the framework of the Constitution of India. The talks have since started,” Mishra said. “In this regard, we are thankful to the Government of India for their support,” he said.

The governor also lauded the initiatives by both Assam and Meghalaya to resolve their long-standing border dispute.

“A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the two states in the presence of the Honorable Union home minister for resolving six out of the 12 areas of disputes,” he stated.

Stating that the Meghalaya government has published its first Sustainable Development Goals Budget Report for overall progress of the state, Mishra urged everyone to “jointly promote” and take it forward for a better Meghalaya.

To,

IN THE COURT OF THE CHIEF JUDICIAL MAGISTRATE KOHIMA: NAGALAND CRIMINAL COMPLAINT CASE No.1/2023 Rokuonuo Usou ...Complainant -VersusTangmong & 13 Ors ...Accused Persons

1. Shri. Tangmong S/o Pachi, R/o Nokhu, Noking Village, Noklak, Nagaland

2. Smti. Viketuonuo Kire R/o Tenyiphe-1 Village Chumukedima, Nagaland

3. Shri. Achum Ngullie

R/o Bayavu Colony Kohima Nagaland

4. Smti. Lanuyangla

R/o Kumlong Ward, Mokokchung

5. Smti. Temjeninla Aier

R/o Dilong Ward, Mokokchung Nagaland

6. Smti. Nagshienla Aier

R/o Hill View Colony, Dimapur, Nagaland

7. Smti. Khumdibila Sangtam

R/o Lower Bayavu Kohima Nagaland

8. Smti. Sensonaro Longchar

R/o Phezhu, Jotsoma, Kohima Nagaland

9. Smti. Keduoneinuo Solo

R/o Kohima Village, Kohima Nagaland

10. Smti. Onentila Longkumer

R/o Upper Agri Kohima Nagaland

11. Shri. Thejavi Chucha

R/o Upper Agri Kohima Nagaland

12. Smti. Rite-U Mero

R/o Lower PWD Kohima Nagaland

13. Smti. Arhoni

R/O Lumami Zunheboto Nagaland

14. Smti. Neculu Chuzho

R/o Agri Farm Kohima Nagaland

Himata Biswa Sarma lays a wreath at Shraddhanjali Kanan in Guwahati, Thursday (PTI)

Manipur Governor La Ganesan taking salute of Republic Day parade in Imphal on Thursday.

Mizoram Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati saluting a march past contingent.

Meghalaya Governor, Brig. (Dr.) B D Mishra (Retd) took the salute of the marching contingents.

Bikram Bahadur Jamatia

BD Mishra

Meghalaya to host G20 nations’ meet on space in April, governor BD Mishra

SNIPPETS

Putin wishes Murmu, Modi on R-Day

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(IANS): Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday sent his wishes to his Indian counterpart

Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 74th Republic Day, hailing India’s achievements in various fields. In a statement issued by the Russian President’s office, he said that India was making a significant contribution in ensuring international peace and security on the global stage. Putin was quoted as saying in the statement that India’s achievements in the economic, social, scientific, technological and other spheres are widely known.

”We set a high value on the relations of privileged strategic partnership between our states,” he said, expressing confidence that “by working together we can ensure the continued growth of mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in all areas. This undoubtedly meets the fundamental interests of the friendly peoples of Russia and India”.

PM to address annual ‘NCC PM’ rally on Jan 28

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the annual ‘NCC PM’ rally at the Cariappa Parade Ground here on January 28, his office said on Thursday. In the true Indian spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, 196 officers and cadets from 19 foreign countries have been invited to be a part of the celebrations, it said. The National Cadet Corps (NCC) is celebrating 75th year of its inception this year. During the event, Modi will release a special day cover and a commemorative and specially minted coin of Rs 75 denomination, marking the 75 successful years of NCC, it said. The rally will be held as a hybrid day and night event and will also include a cultural programme on the theme ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.

Centre defers move to bring in fact check rules

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(IANS): Amid uproar over the proposed amendments in IT rules which mandate Press Information Bureau (PIB) to take down information marked as “fake news”, the Central government has decided to defer the decision. The decision came after protests by the Editors Guild of India, the Indian Newspaper Society and also the News Broadcasters & Digital Association, which opposed the move saying that it would give sweeping powers to the PIB, resulting in censorship. On January 24, Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar had said that consultations with stakeholders would be held next month on the proposed rules. However now the government has decided to defer the move.

Fire damages 6 shops in Mumbai

MUMBAI, JAN 26 (PTI): A fire broke out at a compound in Andheri suburb of Mumbai on Thursday and spread to six shops, officials said. There was no report of any casualty so far, they said. The blaze erupted at around 1.30 pm in Anees compound located on link road in Sakinaka area of Andheri (East), an official said. The fire was confined to six shops, he said. Five fire brigade vehicles were rushed to the spot and efforts were on to douse the blaze, the official said.The cause of the fire was not yet known.

BBC docu on PM, ‘TKF’ screened at Hyd varsity

HYDERABAD, JAN 26 (PTI): The Students Federation of India (SFI) on Thursday organised the screening of the BBC documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots at the University of Hyderabad (UoH) here even as the RSS’ student wing, ABVP showed the controversial film ‘The Kashmir Files’, on the campus.

The Fraternity Movement in UoH campus, a students’ group, had earlier organised the screening of the BBC documentary “India: The Modi Question” on January 21, at the varsity campus without prior notice or permission, prompting the University authorities to seek a report on the incident for taking necessary action.

The screening of the documentary “India: The Modi Question”, the access to which was recently blocked by the Centre on social media platforms, was earlier announced by the SFI at the university campus.

“Glimpses from the successful screening of the documentary ‘India: The Modi Question’ organised by SFI HCU on the Republic Day following the call of SFI CEC. More than 400 students turned up for

the screening, rejecting the false propaganda and the attempts of ABVP to create unrest and the administration to disrupt the screening of the documentary. SFIHCU salutes the student community who have stood for freedom of expression and campus democracy,” a social media post by SFI HCU said, tagging the photos.

UoH, is also known as Hyderabad Central University (HCU).

Countering it, the students of ABVP HCU organised the screening of ‘The Kashmir Files,’ on the university campus today. Written and directed

Mann slams centre for excluding Punjab’s tableau for R-Day

BATHINDA, JAN 26

(PTI): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday slammed the BJPled Union government for “deliberately” excluding his state’s tableau from the Republic Day parade, saying it reflects the “myopic” mindset of those in power at the Centre.

This “discrimination” with Punjab is totally “unwarranted and undesirable”, Mann said while addressing a gathering here after unfurling the national flag during a function to mark 74th Republic Day at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sports stadium. He further said the celebration of any national day without showcasing the contribution of Punjab is unimaginable.

“Today at the national parade which is taking place in Delhi, Punjab’s tableau is not there. Why Punjab’s tableau was not there,” he asked.

“It is the result of bad intention,” he said while targeting the BJP.

It reflects the “myopic” mindset of those in power at the Centre, he alleged.

Earlier, on Wednesday Mann had hit out at the BJP-

BBC docu on PM is conspiracy against India: Goa Governor

will not allow its screening.

led Centre for not including the State’s tableau for the Republic Day parade, saying there cannot be anything more shameful than this.

In the country’s freedom struggle, Punjab and Punjabis made 90 per cent contribution.

Be it Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Udham Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Madan Lal Dhingra and thousands of unknown martyrs who made supreme sacrifices and went to jail to give the country its independence, he had said.

“Punjab’s tableau for Republic Day is not included this time. There cannot be anything more shameful than this. The BJP government has shown its mindset...,” Mann had said in a video message.

by Vivek Agnihotri, the Bollywood film depicts the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus from Kashmir following systematic killings of people from the community by Pakistan-backed terrorists.

UoH Registrar Devesh Nigam in a statement said the Dean-Students’ Welfare had counselled the student groups and issued an appeal not to do any screening of films in view of the law and order issue, maintaining peace and tranquility in campus and forthcoming end semester exams starting from next week.

However, students decided to go ahead with their programme schedule.

“We have come to know that one group held the screening in one of the hostels,” he said adding the campus is peaceful.

Earlier, a group of ABVP members staged a protest in front of the main gate of the varsity and raised slogans against the University administration alleging that the security personnel did not allow them to enter the varsity premises along with the screening equipment.

They held a sit-in and sought to know from the University administration how permission was granted to the SFI to screen the BBC documentary and said they

“The University Administration tried to stop the screening of the movie “The Kashmir Files”. When ABVP Karyakartas were bringing the projector from the main gate, University Security manhandled our Karyakartas. There was another attempt by the administration to seize our projector. We protested at the main gate and we have arranged everything for the screening. We appeal to the student community to join us in large numbers at Ambedkar Chowk (North ShopCom),” a social media post by the ABVP HCU said.

The Union government had last week directed social media platforms such as Twitter and YouTube to block links to the documentary “India: The Modi Question”. The Ministry of External Affairs has trashed the documentary as a “propaganda piece” that lacks objectivity and reflects a colonial mindset.

The two-part documentary claims it investigated certain aspects relating to the 2002 Gujarat riots when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief minister of the state.

PANAJI, JAN 26 (PTI):

A BBC documentary on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the 2002 Gujarat riots that has sparked controversy is a “conspiracy” against India, said Goa Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai on Thursday.

The “character assassination of the prime minister” amounts to an onslaught, insult and a malicious act against the country, said the governor during his address after inspecting a Republic Day parade near Panaji. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has criticised the documentary titled “India: The Modi Question” as a “propaganda piece” that lacks objectivity and reflects a colonial mindset.

Governor Pillai said that the present controversy was “ill-motivated”, adding in the same breath that he was “not criticising Britain which is one of the friendly countries of India now”.

Unlike a common citizen who can approach the court in case of character assassination, the PM, President, Vice President and ministers have to be represented by public pros-

ecutors in such cases, he said. “This means character assassination of the Prime Minister amounts to an onslaught, an insult, a malicious act against the country. That is why I would like to say BBC’s present act is not good,” he said. The governor said that the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is not an independent organisation. “It is answerable to British Parliament. I am not blaming the British government but there’s some conspiracy against India,” he said.

Pillai said that he does not want to go much into the present circumstances but after PM Modi “became the head of the G20 group”, he has given a call for “one world, one family, one future”.

India has taken over the presidency - which rotates annually between members - of the Group of Twenty countries. Talking to reporters later, the governor said that under the system of law followed by “us and the conventions”, an attack or character assassination of the PM would amount to an attack on the sovereignty of the country.

Change in BJP poster stokes hope in Raje camp in Rajasthan

JAIPUR, JAN 26 (PTI):

Rajasthan politics is abuzz with speculations on return of former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje as the BJP’s CM candidate, ever since she has appeared on a poster outside the party’s office here.

Raje’s picture in the poster outside the BJP’s state headquarters has stoked her supporters’ hope that the leader may yet again be made the party’s CM face in the state.

The poster had been replaced recently ahead of the party’s working committee meeting which was held on Sunday and Monday

at Entertainment paradise, with the concluding session address by BJP president JP Nadda. The earlier poster bore photos of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief JP Nadda on one corner, and those of BJP state president Satish Poonia and Leader of Opposition Gulab Chand Kataria on the other, with the name and symbol of the party in the middle.

In the poster that hangs now outside the party office, Raje finds a place between Poonia and Kataria. Her supporters believe her picture is a message

from the party high command that she may be made the CM candidate in the coming election.

However, the anti-Raje camp dismissed the change in poster as a mere balancing act ahead of the elections, which they say has

been done in several other states before a major poll.

Raje’s supporters feel that the two-time chief minister has been sidelined by the party after her defeat in 2018, even though the leader continues to mount a show of strength through rallies – such as one she did on her birthday in March – to keep her presence palpable.

“She is back in the poster and the message is clear that the party is giving her importance and this is connected to the upcoming elections. She is a stalwart leader and the party cannot ignore her,” said a Raje sup-

porter. A leader from the Satish Poonia camp said there is nothing unusual in her appearing in the poster.

“Her photos were there on posters during the ‘Jan Aakrosh Yatras’. Her photo appearing in posters is not a new thing,” he said.

Just like Congress, the BJP in Rajasthan is also beset with infighting, with Poonia and Raje, currently the party’s national vice president, engaged in a polar battle.

Asked about the change in BJP poster, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said that it was an internal matter of the party.

Egypt mulls allocating land to Indian industries in Suez Canal EZ

NEW DELHI, JAN 26 (PTI): India and Egypt have reaffirmed their commitment to the founding values of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), international law and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.

It was mentioned in a joint statement released on Thursday, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi held wideranging talks covering bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest. On economic ties, the state-

MakeIndiaacountryofknowledgeable people,saysRSSchiefMohanBhagwat

JAIPUR,

JAN 26 (PTI):

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday called upon Indians to make India a country of knowledgeable people.

Speaking at a Republic Day function at Keshav Vidhaypeeth in Jamdoli near Jaipur, Bhagwat described the significance of the three colours in the national flag and said people should take a resolution to move ahead and try to fulfil it.

“We unfurl the tricolour, the symbol of our sovereignty, with enthusiasm, joy and pride. Our destination lies in that flag only. We have to make India big in the world,” he said.

Talking about the colours in the national flag, he said the top band of saffron colour represents the nature of India, which is the symbol of eternal life.

“The colour that comes with the rising sun, which is the symbol of continuous work, which inspires man to wake up and be active in his work, is the colour of saffron. It is the symbol of knowledge, sacrifice and hard work,”

he said. “It is our resolution that by breaking the chains of slavery, we will make our country a country of knowledgeable people, a country of people who are constantly active in the interest of the world. These people are no one else, we, the people of India, have to become like this,” he said. He said that sacrifice and knowledge can remain in the person but it needs some direction.

“If there is no direction, knowledge is fatal, knowledge becomes the reason for controversy, power becomes the reason for hurting the weak. And that is why direction should be there. For this, white colour, the symbol of purity, is there as the second colour in the tricolour,” he said.

“We have to be filled with inner and outer purity and the one who is pure inside out never wants bad for others, he always wants to do good. There is no alienation in his heart towards others. Those who move ahead with a generous mind, with a pure mind, behave in a pious manner and consider everyone as their own. We have to become pure like this,” he said.

Bhagwat said that with this, prosperity will come everywhere, there will be no shortage of bread, clothes, house, health, and education and the splendour of the environment which is getting impacted will restore, and the cycle of nature like rainfall will improve.

He said the green colour is the symbol of prosperity and that of Goddess Lakshmi.

Bhagwat said that on this day, people should read the speech made by B R Ambedkar in Parliament while dedicating the Constitution which was made after the full consideration of the Constituent Assembly.

ment mentioned that the Egyptian side is considering the possibility of allocating a special area of land for the Indian industries in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCEZ), adding that “the Indian side can arrange for the master plan”.

The Suez Canal, connecting the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, is one of the world’s busiest trade routes. About 12 per cent of the global trade passes through the canal each day. The statement said India would encourage its companies, which have the potential to

establish overseas investments, to make use of the available investment opportunities in Egypt.

“In this context, the Egyptian side considers the possibility of allocating a special area of land for the Indian industries in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCEZ), and the Indian side can arrange for the master plan,” it said. The Egyptian president, who arrived here on a three-day visit on Tuesday, attended the Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest. The joint statement noted that Modi and Sisi reviewed

Congress launches ‘hath se hath jodo’ campaign

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(IANS): The Congress on Thursday launched nationwide ‘Hath se Hath Jodo’ campaign, under which it plans to reach out to people and make them aware about the “failures” of the Modi government.

Taking to Twitter, the Congress posted: “As we celebrate the biggest festival of democracy today, we announce the launch of the #HaathSeHaathJodo campaign. After the immense love received for #BharatJodoYatra, we are sure that the Haath Se Haath Jodo campaign will also win everybody’s hearts.”

The party workers will deliver a letter written by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and a “charge sheet” against the Central government to each household.

During the programme which is scheduled to end on March 26, party workers will reach out to 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats, six lakh villages and 10 lakh booths.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh had said, “This programme ‘hath se hath jodo’ will take for-

ward the Congress party symbol and the political message from the Bharat Jodo Yatra.”

However, he said that this is a tough task as in some states the organisation is weak, but it will be accomplished.

In the letter, Rahul Gandhi wrote, “There is a palpable economic crisis brewing - joblessness among the youth, unbearable price rise, severe farm distress, and a complete corporate capture of the country’s wealth.” He wrote, “People are worried about losing their jobs, their incomes are falling further, and their dreams of a better future are shattering and there is a deep sense of hopelessness across the country.

“Today, even our plurality is under threat. Divisive forces are attempting to turn our diversity against us - different religions, communities, regions are being pitted against each other. These forces, which are only a handful in number, know that only when people feel insecure and scared can they sow the seeds of hatred for the ‘other’.”

the status of the bilateral relationship based on the pillars of closer political and security cooperation, deeper economic engagement, stronger scientific and academic collaboration as well as wider cultural and people-to-people contacts.

“The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law, the founding values of the Non-Aligned Movement, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states,” the statement said.

NAGALAND UNIVERSITY (A Central University established by an Act of Parliament No.35 of 1989) Hqrs: Lumami, Dist. Zunheboto (Nagaland), Pin Code – 798627

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Student group watch the BBC documentary on PM Modi.

Bhagwant Mann

Vasundhara Raje

Mohan Bhagwat

Inflated numbers

Afterthe Election Commission of India (ECI) announced election schedule for Nagaland on January 19, the waiting and uncertain period has finally ended. As per the ECI schedule, a total of 12,83,749 electors will go to the polls on February 27,2023 to choose 60 members for the next 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA). The poll battle will commence in earnest after February 10, 2023, the last date for withdrawal of candidates. The voter turn out in 2018 was 84% while prior to that, in 2013 it was 91.3%. Considering the fact the elections in Nagaland are among the most expensive, the voter turnout, which are also among the highest, would seem to suggest that both go hand in hand. The suspense over the holding of election had literally ‘frozen’ the activities of all political parties in the vain hope that the government of India will walk the talk with regard to solution to the Naga political issue. While campaigning has not picked up, some political parties notably, the party officials of the opposition Congress are spurring up the momentum although the party has not declared how many seats it is contesting. What has drawn much public attention is the ticket drama taking place in the BJP. Both NDPP and BJP have finalised a seat sharing deal as in 2018 in which NDPP will contest 40 seats and BJP will contest 20 seats. There has been much resentment within some sections of the state BJP unit with the 40:20 deal. Due to this, many ticket aspirants and their supporters have been literally up in arms against the deal finalised in Delhi. Those resenting the deal brokered by NDPP secretary general and the BJP national spokesperson in-charge of Nagaland alleged it was done without the consent of the party unit. However, the national BJP has made it clear that the party will stick to the decision after taking various inputs. Some within the state BJP have based their demand for increase in seat share to 25:35 or preferably 30:30 for the February 27,2023 poll. It was assumed that the party is perched atop and will sweep the polls and win over 20 seats if it contested in 25 and also win 28 if it contested 30 seats. These calculations are based on the ‘wave theory’ and may be as presumptuous as the conclusion that crowds at a rally will translate into actual votes. The presumptions within the BJP are also primarily based on the thinking that people want a change due to anti-incumbency factor linked to NDPP. BJP is an important alliance partner of NDPP from 2018 and earlier a permanent feature of alliance with NPF from 2003 to 2018. BJP therefore cannot be exonerated and allowed to escape from being brought under the scanner if there is an anti-incumbency with NDPP. The calculations of some state BJP leaders and ticket aspirants that the party will be able to win more seats if the share was increased or even forming government if it went solo has not struck the right chord with the national leaders. Had the state BJP and its legislature wing been in working relationship then it would have made some difference with the national leaders. However, the continuing demands for more seats and even threat of en masse resignations if seat sharing is not reviewed, by some state BJP members, has only opened the eyes of the central leaders wider.

DailyDevotion

Look Again and Consecrate

If God so clothes the grass of the field…, will He not much more clothe you…? —Matthew 6:30

A simple statement of Jesus is always a puzzle to us because we will not be simple. How can we maintain the simplicity of Jesus so that we may understand Him? By receiving His Spirit, recognizing and relying on Him, and obeying Him as He brings us the truth of His Word, life will become amazingly simple. Jesus asks us to consider that “if God so clothes the grass of the field…” how “much more” will He clothe you, if you keep your relationship right with Him? Every time we lose ground in our fellowship with God, it is because we have disrespectfully thought that we knew better than Jesus Christ. We have allowed “the cares of this world” to enter in (Matthew 13:22), while forgetting the “much more” of our heavenly Father. “Look at the birds of the air…” (Matthew 6:26). Their function is to obey the instincts God placed within them, and God watches over them. Jesus said that if you have the right relationship with Him and will obey His Spirit within you, then God will care for your “feathers” too.

“Consider the lilies of the field…” (Matthew 6:28). They grow where they are planted. Many of us refuse to grow where God plants us. Therefore, we don’t take root anywhere. Jesus said if we would obey the life of God within us, He would look after all other things. Did Jesus Christ lie to us? Are we experiencing the “much more” He promised? If we are not, it is because we are not obeying the life God has given us and have cluttered our minds with confusing thoughts and worries. How much time have we wasted asking God senseless questions while we should be absolutely free to concentrate on our service to Him? Consecration is the act of continually separating myself from everything except that which God has appointed me to do. It is not a one-time experience but an ongoing process. Am I continually separating myself and looking to God every day of my life?

Quotes

India @ 74: where’s ‘the public’ in the republic?

4 years passed by. India a republic as it is governed by the Constitution which is soul and heartbeat of India. Indian democracy is candidly demarcated and the rights of citizens are well-defined in the Constitution. The functions of the three pillars of democracy are candidly articulated in the Constitution.

In the republic, the public becomes the center of everything as we all know that in democracy people are at the center and so in the republic the public becomes pivotal. If this is so, a question that arise is: what should be duty and the obligations of the State towards its citizens?

In other words, the duty of the State is to take care of its citizens which is rather a contractual, obligatory and thus the duty?

Constitution defines clearly the autonomy of the three pillars of the state – the executive, legislature and the judiciary and yet there have been skirmishes between the executive and judiciary that hampers the smooth functioning wherein citizens suffer. We also keep witnessing the growing rifts

All nations endeavour to safeguard their security and economic interests - in that order - and this is what foreign policy is all about. Foreign policy, by definition, is a product of national security and economic concerns, and diplomacy provides the means for implementing it.

In today’s world, diplomacy goes beyond ‘hospitality and smiles’ to demand ‘ideation’ that provides the intellectual strength to create a convergence in the face of differing stands and safeguard mutual interests in bilateral relations while handling the world affairs.

Think 20 (or T20), the forum of country’s top Think Tanks, is the prime instrument of India’s G20 Presidency for deliberating on ways and means of promoting the country’s growth as part of the world economy, enhancing India’s national security and elevating the country’s position as a major power in a multipolar world.

India is rightly taking up the issues of the South during its G20 Presidency. The situation in South Asia deserves a closer examination for the reason that in this India-centric region, the security environ has an overriding impact on its geopolitics.

While the focus no doubt remains on economic cooperation, the challenge in the region is to effectively counter the dangerous forces threatening not only India’s security but the security of the democratic world at large.

The rise of faith-based militancy, primarily in the Pak-Afghan belt, has affected India the most as it is used by Pakistan for cross border terrorism against this country. What adds to India’s concerns is the fact that Sino-Pak axis - an alliance of a Marxist dictatorship and a fundamentalist regime - is working against India and has struck an unwritten pact with the Kabul Emirate led by Taliban-Al Qaeda combine Faith-based militancy graduating into a force behind the call for Jehad on one hand and the Chinese aggressiveness on land and the marine front, on the other, have created a serious threat to the security of the countries spread across the vast stretch from West Asia

between the governors and the state governments. In recent times, the functioning of the parliament has been so low as the ruling members and the opposition are in loggerheads. Hardly have the citizens watched matured debates on issues or on bills to be tabled and passed. Parliamentary sessions had to be cut short due to the pandemonium. Misinformation, disinformation and fake narratives have occupied the major space of the public. The citizens get perplexed as the narratives are not enjoined with facts, figures and reliable data. Mainstream TV debates also by and large clouded with all kinds of dubious statistics and references.

Elections both the parliamentary and assembly have become nominal as the citizens are considered as means and thus considered as mere vote banks. It gels well with what B.R. Ambedkar said: “It is not enough to be electors only. It is necessary to be lawmakers otherwise those who can be lawmakers will become masters of those who

to Indo-Pacific.

Terrorism is classically defined as resort to ‘covert’ violence for a perceived political ‘cause’. The ‘cause’ builds the motivation which may be ‘ideological’ as was the case with Naxalism or Maoism or could arise from assertion of ethnic identity as was witnessed in the insurgencies of the North East but the new global terror exploits the motivation of faith which in the case of Islam can be strong indeed.

Forces behind this terror are able to exploit the ‘supremacist’ content and the pull of ‘exclusivism’ for turning the minds of their potential followers not only from among the Madrasa products but even those with resources as well. They can whip up a call for avenging the alleged mistreatment of Muslim minorities or just raise the war cry of ‘Islam in danger’ to justify recourse to Jehad. In the Indian context, the threat of cross-border terrorism was pushed to a new pitch when Pakistan flush from the success of the anti-Soviet armed campaign in Afghanistan for which it got all the credit from the US-led West, planned to replicate the Afghan Jehad in Kashmir by not only doubling up the infiltration of Islamic militants of Hizbul Mujahideen and Jaishe Mohammad raised by it, besides the Saudi-funded Lashkare Toiba - who all had led the anti-Soviet Jehad in Afghanistan but additionally also inducting Taliban Mujahideen into the ‘proxy war’ against India.

Pakistan had used the Taliban for installing the Emirate at Kabul in 1996 and in spite of its felicitous role in the direct combat between Islamic radicals of Taliban-Al Qaeda and the US during the subsequent ‘war on terror’ that started in Afghanistan, it managed to retain the goodwill of US by projecting itself as a mediator between Taliban and US for Doha talks and at the same time reinstall the Kabul Emirate of Taliban.

For India, the threat of terrorism has multiplied because of the new found capability of Pak ISI to set upon this country militants from across the Islamic spectrum- ranging from Hanafi HuM and the LeT of Ahle Hadis to the radical Wahabis of Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS - the Al

can only become electors.”

Citizens cast their votes and those who get elected forget whatever said in the manifesto or while giving electoral promises. Till the next elections are announced there is no binding or trust or connectivity between the citizens and those who got elected. In the process, the citizens who cast their votes electing their legislators/ parliamentarians consider the electorates as objects and those who got elected eventually become as rulers. Citizens tend to forget their responsibility and constitutional rights. Public ought to make the republic to work, failing which, those who get elected eventually become rulers leading to ruthless violators of the Constitution. Hence, a republic propelled by Constitution, in order to become functional republic, the public should actively participate arming them with all the rights enshrined on them. Keeping aside celebrations and grand showdowns, what we must ask is: Have the public occupied the central place in the republic?

Dr. John Mohan Razu

Qaeda’s equivalent rising from the second theatre of ‘war on terror’ in Iraq-Syria belt. India’s security strategy has to take care of this aggravated threat.

India is seeing a new level of hostility from the Sino-Pak axis following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution by the Indian Parliament and designation of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir as two Union Territories. There is complete collusion between these two hostile neighbours in conducting ‘covert’ offensives against India including use of drones in Kashmir and Punjab and stepping up criticism of India’s Kashmir policy internationally.

India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has kept up the initiative of building economic relationship with all other neighbours and the countries beyond and achieved a remarkable consolidation of Indo-US friendship on one hand, and maintained strong bonds with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the other - notwithstanding the confrontation of the US with Russia on Ukraine.

Prime Minister Modi has emerged as a global leader whose counsel on issues of war and peace as also on economic advancement of the world commands respect. This will go a long way in helping India to achieve the mission of G20 Presidency on various fronts.

T20 has a major role in this - internationally and at home. It should give enough attention to the task of facilitating formulation of a comprehensive strategy of taking India economically forward in the face of serious security threats arising from its neighbourhood.

Pakistan has, in its National Security Policy announced a year ago, declared India as its principal adversary and gone on record to allege that Muslim minority in India felt unprotected under the present regime. Pakistan also took the question of Kashmir to the Saudi-led OIC as a ‘Muslim issue’. During this period Pak ISI has intensified the use of social media for creating terror modules and spreading radicalisation which coincides with the trend of civil society groups of vested interests in cohort with anti-India

Eating right: Just a New Year’s resolution or a conscious habit?

It’s that time of year when many people try to make New Year’s resolutions, from going to the gym every day to eating healthier. Some swear to go to the gym five times a week, while others want to shed a considerable amount of weight by experimenting with a new diet.

While these objectives are wonderful and have no flaws, we all know that these resolutions rarely persist. We all start the year with lofty goals that are difficult to achieve.

As we all know, our habits dictate our behaviors, which makes it even more important to develop positive habits that will benefit us over time.

How does one reach their objectives?

Before embarking on a tight diet plan, it is critical to begin cautiously and with attention. Small modifications in your everyday life connected to healthy eating habits can help you achieve your goals significantly.

So, here are some new year tips from Shilpa Khanna Thakkar, CEO of Chicnutrix, to keep you motivated:

. Choose general healthy eating habits over specific diets. Taking this up as practice makes it easily attainable and better for your overall well-being.

. Plan your meals! Think again if you are at work and go out for lunch and then get a snack or some coffee later. Making a conscious effort to pack a lunch and snack makes it easier to control your eating habits and is even more inexpensive in the long run.

. Every weekend, go grocery shopping and purchase snacks and food items for the next five days. This could include yogurt, nuts, fruits, veggies, etc. While cooking

lobbies floating narratives about condition of minorities and human rights in this country. Pakistan’s attempts to cast Indo-Pak relationship in a Hindu-Muslim framework have to be countered through a campaign to highlight the intrinsically secular character of the Indian state demonstrated by ‘one man one vote’, equal opportunities, protection of law for all citizens, and the fact of the elected political executive of India ruling the country without a denominational stamp. This is in contrast to an Islamic Republic that does not treat all citizens on an equal footing. In an electoral democracy, different communities may have different numbers but so long as there is adult franchise and equality of rights, the regime cannot be falsely charged with practising ‘majoritarianism’ just because the largest community may return more representatives to the legislature. Also in India, law and order and the police are under autonomous control of the state government and any individual case of failure to prevent public violence has to be squarely blamed on the latter, and not held against the Centre for political reasons.

In the prevailing geopolitical scenario, India’s national security is threatened more than anything else, by external forces trying to cause internal instability here by fishing in our troubled waters at home.

The experience of India’s partition on grounds of religion should have made it the first responsibility of all citizens of India to accept nationalism as the basic uniting factor in this country with total freedom of worship being granted to every body.

The sense of nationalism is a cultural concept that revolves round shared feelings of pride in secured boundaries, common view of the country’s friends and adversaries and partnership in carrying the nation forward towards a bright future.

Politics in India first led the rulers to de-emphasise the fact of the new born nation being a Hindu majority country and then pushed them in the direction of implicitly placing Muslim minority on a special footing on a realisation that in a situation of political divides

dinner, make a few extra servings for the next few days. Try to save and repurpose leftovers for days when you are too busy to cook.

. Track your progress and milestones with non-food rewards such as reading a new book or watching a new movie. Celebrating your wins is essential, as that shows us what we are accomplishing and motivates us to accomplish more.

. Share your goal with others. This not only helps you get useful tips but also shows you that you are not alone in your journey towards good health and allows you to share your progress with others.

“In addition to healthy eating habits, another popular resolution during the new year is to exercise more.

However, coming up with the goal of “going to the gym every day of the week” is quite unrealistic, especially for someone who does not exercise regularly.

So, it is easier to devise a smaller goal, like taking daily walks, and then gradually build on this.

The same needs to be applied to your resolution of eating better,” said Shilpa Khanna Thakkar. Let’s not forget the true essence of New Year’s resolutions - making a positive change to your health and quality of life. They don’t have to be extreme life changes, but rather just reasonable health goals to have a positive impact that becomes a part of your lifestyle.

The cycle of unhealthy eating habits and unrealistic diets needs to be broken! When made, these conscious habits should not only enhance the quality of life you lead but also keep you healthy yet happy.

N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe, IANS

in the majority, the minority support could turn out to be a ‘match winner’ in elections. Communal politics was sustained by vested interests - Ulema and the communally-minded elite in the main - and this made it possible for outside forces to instigate communal militancy that would graduate into faith-based terror - as was illustrated by the emergence of Indian Mujahideen out of Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) in the North in the past, and the rise of the militant Islamic outfit called Popular Front of India (PFI) from Kerala in the South more recently. Both SIMI and PFI were banned after an exhaustive investigation.

It needs to be mentioned that the average Muslim in India is, like members of other communities, preoccupied with livelihood issues and family welfare matters, and appreciated the pro-people measures of the government, but the politics of the Minority community was traditionally hijacked by certain leaders for personal interest. It is a matter of great concern that nationalism has been made to sound like a disparaging word and even a plea was advanced that singing the national anthem and saluting the national flag should be made optional for the minorities.

Nationalism has de -

liberately been made synonymous with Hindu Nationalism to run down the Modi regime. Even a body of historians has come forth to emphasise that India was never really a nation in the past. They clearly miss the point that whatever might have been the situation earlier, independent India- for the sake of its present and the future - has to work for uniting its people into a common nationhood.

In the context of India’s G20 Presidency, answers have to be found to the security and economic issues facing the country as also the world outside, and a framework of policies and joint action evolved to make this earth a happier and peaceful place in keeping with the motto ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ ( World is one family) given by India. Mention should be made here of the event called R20 at Bali that Indonesia launched with the express aim of projecting Islam as a religion of peace, rejecting ‘radicalisation’ and emphasising the need to respect all faiths. Representatives of different religions were invited and they included Ram Madhav of RSS from India.

D.C. Pathak (The writer is a former Director of Intelligence Bureau. Views expressed are personal)

The ABCD’s of Clean Election Movement

The 4 A’s of CEM

1. Abstain from indulging in election feasts and partying

2. Avoid tempering your date of birth

3. Avoid solicitingor giving Money, liquor and things for your vote or others

4. Avoid Proxy voting

The 4 B’s of CEM

1. Beware of Indulgencepractices by church leaders

2. Boldly speak against Village/khel/clan consensus candidate

3.Be firm in your witness for Christ in elections (God will honor you)

4. Buying and selling of vote is sinful (it is dishonoring God) The Four C’s of CEM

1. Clean Vote, clean process will usher clean future

2. Campaign against Corruption and any unethical forms of voting

3.Challenge anomalies in electoral roll and any kind of undemocratic practices

4.Call for a common platform for all parties

The Four D’s of CEM

1. Do not manipulate, misguide or threaten others against their choice in voting

2. Delete double entry voters roll (Never have double voter id)

3. Do not declare your support for any candidate (Secret Ballot is the way)

4. Demonstrate clean Christian character Clean Election Movement (NBCC). Villo Naleo Convenor (NBCC, Clean Election Movement)

“Live out of your imagination, not your history.”

~ Stephen Covey

‘Think 20’ must work for both India’s economic growth and security

SNIPPETS

Badrinath portals to open on April 27

DEHRADUN, JAN 26

(PTI): The sacred portals of the Badrinath temple in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district will open at 7:10 am on April 27, authorities said on Thursday. As per tradition, the time and date for the opening of the famous temple were decided at a religious ceremony held at the erstwhile Tehri royal palace in Narendra Nagar on the occasion of Basant Panchami, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee said.

The ‘Gaadu Ghada’ (oil pitcher) yatra will begin on April 12, it said. As part of the yatra, a pitcher containing sesame oil is carried to the Himalayan temple ahead of its opening every year. The portals of Badrinath, a temple dedicated to Hindu deity Vishnu were closed for the winter season on November 19.

DCPCR to launch

WhatsApp chatbot

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(PTI): The Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights will launch a WhatsApp chatbot to interact with people and help them register their complaints. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia will launch the chatbot on February 1. An official said, “The chatbot will help citizens and the commission to interact in a more effective manner. Some of its cases include complaint registration, searching information and tracking complaint status.

“It will be used by the commission for nudge-based awareness communications to children, women and Anganwadi workers, etc.” The Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights is the apex statutory authority of Delhi government to protect, promote and monitor the implementation of rights and policies related to children such as education, immunisation, protection against abuse and nutrition.

PM greets people on Basant Panchami

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people on the occasion of Basant Panchami and Saraswati

Puja on Thursday. “May this auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami and Saraswati Puja infuse new energy and enthusiasm in everyone’s life,” he said in a tweet in Hindi. “Best wishes to all of you on this auspicious festival associated with the worship of ‘Maa Vidyadayini’,” the prime minister said.

National flag unfurled at RSS hqs on R-Day

NAGPUR, JAN 26 (PTI):

The national flag was unfurled at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Maharashtra’s Nagpur city on the occasion of the Republic Day on Thursday. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat was not present at the function as he is currently in Rajasthan capital Jaipur, where he will participate in a Republic Day event. Nagpur Mahanagar Sah-Sanghchalak

Shridhar Gadge unfurled the tricolour at the Sangh headquarters in Mahal area of Nagpur in the presence of RSS volunteers and pracharaks.

8 detained for immolation bid

MUMBAI, JAN 26 (PTI):

Police detained eight persons after they tried to set themselves ablaze to press for the demand for getting their house land title documents in their names in Maharashtra’s Dhule district on Thursday, police said. The incident took place near Dhule district collector’s office after the national flag was unfurled on the occasion of the Republic Day, an official said.

‘Pathaan’ release: 4 held in Indore for ‘objectionable’ slogan against Prophet

INDORE, JAN 25 (PTI): Police in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore on Wednesday arrested four persons after some Muslim community members complained that objectionable slogans against Prophet Mohammed were raised during a protest by right-wing activists against “Pathaan” movie near a cinema hall in the city.

In a separate development, the police registered a case against unidentified persons after the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) alleged that a provocative slogan - “sar tan se juda” (beheading) - was raised during a protest by “jihadi elements” in the city, an official said. Some right-wing organisations held protests against the movie in parts of Madhya Pradesh on the day of its release on Wednesday over certain scenes, forcing some theatres in Indore and Bhopal to cancel the morning shows.

Some members of the

NEW DELHI/PATNA, JAN 26 (PTI): Janata

Dal (United) president Lalan Singh on Thursday expressed his inability to attend the concluding event of the Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra in Srinagar on January 30 and asked the Congress to take appropriate steps to unite the opposition.

In a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Singh cited his scheduled engagement for a political programme in pollbound Nagaland to skip the Yatra’s conclusion.

Though the Congress has invited heads of several non-BJP parties to attend the event to finish the mega exercise aimed at rejuvenating its organisation in the run up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, it remains to be seen how many of them turn up.

NEW DELHI, JAN 26 (PTI): Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh launched Bharat Biotech’s nasal Covid vaccine, iNCOVACC, on the occasion of Republic Day on Thursday.

The world’s first madein-India intranasal vaccine was launched at Mandaviya’s residence here.

The nasal vaccine -BBV154 -- had received the Drugs Controller General of India’s (DCGI) approval in November for restricted emergency use among adults as a heterologous

Mohali armed forces institute prepares girls for guns, glory

sioner Harinarayanchari Mishra on Wednesday night and submitted a memorandum against this slogan allegedly raised in the Barwali Chowki area.

THIRUVANANTHA -

PURAM, JAN 26 (PTI):

Kerala Finance Minister K

N Balagopal has expressed hope that the Union Budget will allocate more funds for social and infrastructure development as well as correct the Centre’s fiscal policy in dealing with states.

The Left leader, who is critical of the Union government’s approach towards the states in terms of GST implementation and devolution of central funds, also said the “serious discrimi-

Muslim community alleged that objectionable slogans against the Prophet were raised during an -anti”Pathaan” protest by rightwing activists in the premises of city-based Kastur Talkies in Indore. Based on their complaint, a first information report (FIR) was registered and four persons were later arrested in connection with this case, a police spokesperson said.

The VHP on Wednesday night claimed that protesters raised provocative “sar tan se juda” slogan during a protest in the city’s

Badwali Chowki area. VHP national spokesperson Vinod Bansal made this allegation while sharing the purported video of this sloganeering on Twitter.

He tagged state Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Home Minister Narottam Mishra in the tweet and wrote, “They (Chouhan and Mishra) possibly don’t know that ‘sar tan se juda’ gang has become active in Indore today.” He accused “jihadi” elements of being part of this protest.

A local VHP delegation met City Poli ce Commis -

The JD(U) has in the past highlighted its preeminent leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as prime ministerial candidate, without officially projecting him as its choice for the face of the Opposition.

Some regional party chiefs may send their representatives at a time when the Opposition is itself divided over what shape any such alliance against the BJP should take and who should be the spearhead. Singh said, “My party sincerely feels that the need of the hour is an unified opposition and expects that the Indian National Congress takes appropriate steps in this direction”.

booster dose.

According to a statement issued by Bharat Biotech earlier, ‘iNCOVACC’ is priced at Rs 800 for private markets and at Rs 325 for supplies to the government of India and state governments iNCOVACC is a recombinant replication deficient adenovirus vectored vaccine with a pre-fusion stabilised spike protein. This vaccine candidate was evaluated in phase I, II and III clinical trials with successful results, the Hyderabadbased vaccine maker had said.

Singh, however, shared Kharge’s sentiments against the BJP, saying there are “no two opinions that there is a decline in democratic values in the country and that the Constitutional institutions that are supposed to ensure checks and balances on unrestrained executive power are being systematically destroyed”. The pace at which the country is fast transforming itself from an “electoral democracy to an electoral autocracy” is frightening, Singh said. He termed the concluding event of the yatra as “historic” and wished it success.

Mishra said a case under section 505 and other relevant provisions of India Penal Code (IPC) was registered at Sadar Bazar police station for alleged objectionable sloganeering in Barwali Chowki area. Appropriate action will be taken against the accused in this case after identifying them, he said.

A police spokesperson said that four people have been arrested in the Kastur Cinema slogan case.

Members of the Muslim community protested in large numbers in Chandan Nagar, Chhatripura and other minority-dominated areas along with Badwali Chowki. The protesters objected to the objectionable slogans against Prophet Mohammed raised during the Kastur Talkies protest.

CHANDIGARH, JAN 26 (PTI): Preparatory school for girls -- the very words conjure an image of uppercrust young women getting ready for marriage. But the Punjab government-run Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute is breaking every stereotype to pave the way for girls from villages and semi-urban areas to join the armed forces.

Named after Mata Bhag Kaur, who valiantly led 40 Sikh fighters against the Mughals in the Battle of Muktsar in 1705, the institute in Mohali selects only 25 girls annually for its three-year preparatory course for a career in the armed forces.

Only girls who are Punjab residents can enrol at the seven-year-old institute where the training is free. The entrance exam for the institute is tough and sees 1,200 to 1,400 applicants each year. It has been set up on the lines of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute

for Boys, also in Mohali. Many girls at the institute aspire for combat roles in the armed forces. For Anika, a resident of Hoshiarpur and a daughter of an ex-Armyman, no other profession is as empowering as the armed forces. “I know there is no limit to my capabilities. Every morning I wake up that motivation that the dream of donning the olive green is just one more step away. I will be there in the (defence) academy,” she

said with conviction. Last month, two alumni of the Mai Bhago institute were commissioned as officers in the Indian Air Force -- one as a transport pilot and the other as a navigator. The institute’s director, Major General J S Sandhu (retd), said, “The first batch of the institute passed in 2018. The focus is to provide a platform and opportunity (for girls) to compete and become commissioned officers in the armed forces.”

Allowance for unemployed youth from next year: Baghel

JAGDALP UR, JAN 26

(PTI): In a major announcement ahead of the Chhattisgarh Assembly polls due this year-end, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Thursday said unemployed youth will be given a monthly allowance in the state from the next financial year.

It was one of the key promises made by the Congress ahead of the 2018 Assembly polls, following which the party returned to power in the state after a gap of 15 years.

Addressing people on the occasion of the Republic Day on Thursday after unfurling the national flag at the Lalbag Parade grounds in Jagdalpur, the headquarters of Bastar district, Baghel also announced the formulation of a rural industry policy in the state to strengthen the cottage industry-based rural economy.

The CM further said factories located in industrial areas developed by the In-

ELITE ACADEMY

dustries Department will be exempted from property tax.

He also made a number of other announcements, including setting up of an aerocity near Raipur airport, housing assistance scheme for labourers and a scheme to promote women entrepreneurship, apparently eyeing the Assembly elections.

“Unemployed youth will be given an unemployment allowance every month from the next financial year (2023-24),” Baghel said without specifying the amount.

An aerocity will be developed near the Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur, to enhance passenger facilities, commercial development of the airport area and employment generation, he said. Construction workers registered with the Chhattisgarh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board for a period of three years will be given a

grant of Rs 50,000 for building their houses, he said.

To strengthen the cottage industry-based rural economy, and to increase employment and the income of people in rural pockets, Baghel also announced the formulation of a rural industry policy in the state.

Besides, a new scheme will also be brought to encourage women groups, women entrepreneurs, and businesswomen to launch start-ups and set up industries, he said.

Baghel asserted that the

state government was determined to preserve the tribal culture and festivals.

An aid of Rs 10,000 will be provided every year to each gram panchayat for organising festivals of tribal communities in the tribaldominated Bastar and Surguja divisions and scheduled areas of the state from the next financial year, he said. Besides, Chhattisgarh State Innovation Commission will be constituted with an aim to promote innovation for the development of the state, he said. A river front will be developed along the Kharun river which flows on the outskirts of capital Raipur bordering Durg district, he said. Baghel said the Ramayan and Manas Mandli Mahotsav will be held in the state and Maa Kaushlaya Mahotsav will be organised in Chandkhuri, where Mata Kaushlya temple is located, every year.

Dr. GANESH DAS MS (PGIMER, Chandigarh), DNB, FMAS, FAIS, Trained Cancer Surgeon from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai will be available for consultation on 29th Jan 2023 (Sunday) from 9:00 am. For

nation” showed towards Kerala should be stopped.

In an interview to PTI, Balagopal said the Centre’s approach has led to a financial crisis in the state that is affecting the overall development.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be announcing the Budget for 2023-24 on February 1, at a time when global uncertainties and headwinds are impacting the Indian economy. “As far as Kerala is concerned, there is a sharp fall in the percentage in our divisible pool. We have requested the Union government to correct it,” the minister said. Ahead of the Union Budget, Balagopal alleged “serious discrimination” towards Kerala in allocating funds from the divisible pool.

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Protesters outside a theater in Indore.

Women aspirants undergo physical training at Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute. (PTI)

Bhupesh Baghel

Lalan Singh

‘Halwa’ ceremony marks the final stage of budget

NEW

DELHI, JAN 26

(AGENCIES): The customary ‘Halwa Ceremony’ to mark the beginning of the compilation and printing of documents related to the Union Budget for 2023-24 was held on Thursday at the Finance Ministry’s Budget Press inside North Block.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Minister of States for Finance Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad and Pankaj Chaudhary were present along with other senior officials of the finance ministry.

The ceremony marks the final stage of compiling the Union Budget. The finance minister begins the ceremony by stirring the halwa in the kadhai and then serves it to colleagues at the ministry’s headquarters in the national capital.

To maintain the secrecy of the Budget, there is a “lock-in” of officials involved in making the Budget. These officers and staff come out of the North Block only after the Budget is presented in the Parliament.

Last year, the customary ceremony did not take place for the first time in view of the health and safety concerns of people over Covid fears. Like the previous two Union Budgets, Union

Budget 2023-24 will also be delivered in paperless form. The Union Budget 2023-24 is to be presented on February 1, 2023.

The Budget documents will be available on the “Union Budget Mobile App” on both the Android and Apple OS platforms after the completion of the Budget Speech by the Finance Minister in Parliament on February 1, 2023.

The formal exercise to prepare the annual Budget for the next financial year (2023-24) commenced on October 10.

FinanceMinistry consideringSopsfor middleclass

The finance ministry is considering proposals to benefit the middle class in its last full Budget of the Narendra Modi 2.0 government to be presented on February 1 in the Lok Sabha, reports ANI.

The finance ministry is looking into proposals sent by various government departments on specific steps which may be announced in the Budget, benefitting a large section of the middle class, sources said. The government has not raised income tax ex-

emption limit from ₹ 2.5 lakh which was fixed in 2014 by the then Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his first Budget. Also, the standard deduction has remained at ₹50,000 since 2019. Several experts are of the opinion that the exemption limit as well as standard deduction need to be increased to compensate salaried middle class for elevated level of inflation.

The recent statement of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman that she was aware of pressures of the middle class has raised hope that some incentives may come for them in the upcoming Budget.

“I too belong to the middle class so I can under-

India displays military prowess on R-Day

(From p-1)

The main battle tank Arjun, the Nag Missile System (NAMIS) and the K-9 Vajra were also showcased.

All equipment from the Army which were part of the Republic Day celebrations are made-in-India, Chief of Staff Delhi Area Maj Gen Bhavnish Kumar had earlier said.

With ‘Nari Shakti’ being the theme, the Akash weapon system display had Lt Chetana Sharma at the forefront.

The marching contingents from the Army included one each from the mechanised infantry, the Dogra Regiment, the Punjab Regiment, the Maratha Light Infantry, the Bihar Regiment and the

Gorkha Brigade. A camel band from the Border Security Force also took part in the parade.

The Republic Day celebrations were held on the revamped Central Vista avenue and was the first at the ceremonial boulevard after Rajpath was renamed to Kartavya Path last year.

Lt Commander Disha Amrith, a woman naval air operations official posted at a strategic base, led the Indian Navy’s contingent of 144 young sailors. The IAF contingent comprising 144 air warriors and four officers, was led by Sqn Ldr Sindhu Reddy.

Three Param Vir Chakra awardees and three Ashok Chkara awardees also took

stand the pressures of the middle class. I identify myself with the middle class so I know,” she had said earlier this month.

In the same breath, the minister reminded that the present Modi government has not imposed any fresh taxes on the middle class. She said the government has taken various measures like developing the metro rail network in 27 cities and building 100 smart cities to promote ease of living. The minister gave the assurance that the government can do more for the middle class as its population is growing and it has become sizeable now.

“I quite recognise their problems. The government has done a lot for them and

part in the parade, and a ‘veterans tableau’ with the theme

-- ‘Towards India’s Amrit Kaal with a Resolve of Veterans’ Commitment’ was also part of it. A group of ‘Shramyogis’ involved in the construction of the Central Vista, the Kartavya Path, the new Parliament Building along with milk, vegetable and street vendors were specially invited for the parade.

A total of 23 tableaux -- 17 from states and union territories and six from various ministries and departments -- depicting India’s vibrant cultural heritage, economic and social progress took part in the ceremonial parade with ‘Nari Shakti’ as the theme for majority of the floats.

continue doing the same,” she said without making any commitment.

Besides tinkering with exemption limit and standard deduction, the finance ministry is also looking at the possibility of increasing limit under 80C which includes investment in life insurance, FD, bonds, housing and PPF, among others.

Payment towards medical insurance premium is also being looked at, sources said, adding, the government may simplify capital gains tax rules to benefit the middle class investors which have started investing in capital markets. The insurance industry has been pitching for a separate tax deduction provision for life insurance, tax waiver for annuity income, and higher deductions for health insurance premiums.

If there is an increase in the limit under 80C with special focus on the insurance segment, it will help push term insurance or other protection scheme, which can provide essential financial protection to the family in the event of an untimely death of the earning member, said Max Life Insurance MD and CEO Prashant Tripathy.

ENPO delegation to meet MHA team soon; reaffirms to abstain from polls

(From p-1)

KU demands explanation from BJP Mon Taking serious note of viral videos and pictures of BJP party members protesting at the BJP office in Mon, Konyak Union (KU) has served an “explanation call” notice to BJP Mon unit for violating the order banning any election-related campaign etc. in Eastern Nagaland.

As per the notice signed by, KU vice president H.A. Hongna Konyak and general secretary Manpang K Wangyen reminded that

KU had issued notification for the second time on January 13, 2023 banning all political activities within Mon district, warning that necessary actions would be initiated against defaulters by KU until the demand of Frontier Nagaland was granted by the Government of India befittingly.

However, KU said the BJP Mon willfully defied the order.

Therefore, KU had asked BJP Mon unit president and secretary to appear before KU on January 26, failing which it warned of severe action.

(From p-1)

Pointing out that the quality of life in a society was often determined by literacy rate, Mukhi expressed happiness over the State’s literacy rate of 80.11% in 2021 as per the National Statistical Office data, which was above the national average. He claimed that the State’s endeavour was to ensure that no child missed out on education and that every citizen had a chance to better their lives, which in turn would contribute greatly to the progress of the nation. He further said that the country had made quantum improvement in its capabilities to meet the challenges of health issues, including Covid-19, with the collective resolve and determination of everyone by making significant accretions in hospital beds, medical oxygen, ventilators, essential medicines and also in improving logistic capabilities. Prof Mukhi stated that the formation of the Republic on 26th January 1950 was the first milestone in the march towards realizing the dreams of the people in the aftermath of India’s Independence. He said the Constitution gave expression to the goals, ideals and values that guided the freedom struggle and laid the foundations of the structure of governance and is committed to secure justice, liberty and equality

as well as dignity for all the citizens of the country.

He said the day is to remember the efforts and sacrifices of the freedom fighters which gave India its Independence and created the Republic. He called upon everyone to recall the nation builders and architects of the Constitution, which gave India’s identity as a Sovereign Democratic Republic.

On the occasion, Prof. Mukhi also paid homage to Gandhi, who he said was one of twentieth century’s greatest political and spiritual leaders. He also lauded the role of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution, which allowed him to leave a profound and enduring mark on Indian trajectories of democratic justice and affirmative action policy. Mukhi also hailed the pioneers of Nagaland who had made significant contribution and sacrifices in realising their dream of a State. He observed that Nagaland was formed in 1963 with a special constitutional dispensation that safeguarded the identity and interests of Naga people and laid a solid foundation for developing the future of the people according to their own genius.

He acknowledged that Nagaland was born under most difficult circumstances

Tech major IBM lays off 3,900 employees

NEW DELHI, JAN 26

(IANS): Tech giant IBM is laying off 3,900 employees, which is a result of the spinoff of IT infrastructure services provider Kyndryl business and part of the AI unit called ‘Watson Health’.

The layoffs will cause a charge of $300 million in the January-March period to the company, according to IBM Chief Financial Officer James Kavanaugh.

“We have taken a number of significant portfolio actions over the last couple of years, which has resulted in some stranded costs in our business,” he said during the company’s earnings call late on Wednesday.

“We expect to address these remaining stranded costs early in the year and anticipate a charge of about $300 million in the first quarter,” Kavanaugh added.

IBM joins a slew of tech companies such as Meta, Alphabet, Microsoft and others in laying off thousands of employees amid the global economic headwinds.

In its quarter ending December 31, 2022, the company delivered $16.7

billion in revenue, $3.8 billion of operating pretax income, and operating earnings per share of $3.60.

“In our seasonally strongest quarter, we generated $5.2 billion of free cash flow,” said the company.

The revenue for the quarter was up over 6 per cent at constant currency.

Arvind Krishna, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of IBM, said that to bolster the software portfolio, “we invested in hybrid cloud and AI capabilities”.

“This year, we’ll unlock more productivity, expand our strategic partnerships, and put more investment in specific growth markets. For 2023, we see revenue growth in line with our mid-single-digit model range and about $10.5 billion of free cash flow,” said Krishna.

and admitted that building a united Naga society, nurturing democratic ethos in a poor and challenged situation and safeguarding tribal honour and dignity in a difficult political climate were a challenge for all sections. He however noted that Nagaland had made an indelible mark in the march towards growth and development of the country.

The Republic Day parade comprised of 13 contingents led by parade commander, dy. commandant, 4th NAP Z. James Sema and 2nd in-command, asstt. commandant, 4th NAP R. Tunyi. The contingents included-- 1 Assam Rifles, 78 CRPF, 37 BSF, Assam Police, DEF Kohima, 4th NAP, 10th IR Bn, 15th IR Mahila, Home Guards & Civil Defence & SDRF, NAP Rangers, NPTS brass band, Nagaland Police auxiliary brass band and 15th IR Mahila Pipe band.

The celebration was also marked with a dance performance ‘Kadam KadamBadhaye Ja’ by the Women Resources Development department, a Tati Folk Song titled ‘TsunuoTsubou’ by the Kevira Cultural Troupe, Kohima Village and traditional folk dances by Pochury Cultural Troupe, Kohima, Shena (old) Cultural Troupe, Kohima; Konyak Cultural Troupe, Kohima; and Phom Cultural Troupe, Kohima.

NDPP-BJP seat sharing final: Jacob

(From p-1)

Jacob said he was happy with whatever the central BJP leaders had decided. “We are nobody to decide,” he remarked. Jacob also said that central BJP leaders had full knowledge of the State and therefore they have formed an alliance with NDPP with Rio at the helm.

Asked about the recent protest held across some parts of Nagaland against the seat-sharing agreement, Jacob replied that it was very natural for anybody to show resentment if something did not happen as per one’s plans.

To maintain secrecy, there is a “lock-in” of officials involved in making the Budget. (File)

SNIPPETS

UNGA prez visiting India with ‘main focus’ on science

UNITED NATIONS,

JAN 26 (IANS): UN General Assembly President

Csaba Korosi will begin a three-day visit to India on Sunday that will uniquely focus on the connection between science and the work of the Assembly besides the usual meetings with officials, according to his spokesperson Paulina Kubiak. “A main focus of the visit is on making connections between the General Assembly and science, particularly on the issue of water, ahead of the UN Water Conference in March,” Kubiak said on Wednesday.

New US ambassador arrives in Moscow

MOSCOW, JAN 26 (AP):

The United States’ new ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, has arrived in Moscow, the US embassy said Thursday. Tracy most recently was the ambassador to Armenia and served as the deputy chief of mission in Moscow in 2014-17. She replaces John Sullivan, who resigned in September.

Police raid home of Spain

church attacker

ALGECIRAS, JAN 26

(AP): Police raided the home of a machete-wielding attacker on Thursday, a day after twin attacks on churches left one man dead and a priest seriously injured. Spain’s Interior Minister Fernando GrandeMarlaska said that police were searching the as-yet unnamed attacker’s home to “determine the nature, terrorist or otherwise,” of the incident on Wednesday night. Grande-Marlaska also confirmed no other suspects were involved and that the detainee had no prior criminal record.

100s of Iraqis protest over devaluation of

currency

BAGHDAD, JAN 26

(IANS): Hundreds of protesters rallied near the Central Bank of Iraq in downtown Baghdad against the recent devaluation of the local currency and demand the government take action to stabilise it. The demonstrators gathered outside the bank complex on al-Rasheed Street amid a heavy security presence as riot police cordoned off the area, a source with the Interior Ministry said.

Ukraine lauds Western move on tanks; Russia downplays

KYIV, JAN 26 (AGENCIES): From Washington to Berlin to Kyiv, a Western decision to send battle tanks to Ukraine was hailed enthusiastically. Moscow sought to downplay it.

0he Kremlin has previously warned that such tank deliveries would be a dangerous escalation of the conflict in Ukraine, and it has strongly denounced the watershed move by Germany and the United States to send the heavy weaponry to its foe. But it insists the new armour won’t stop Russia from achieving its goals in Ukraine.

“The potential it gives to the Ukrainian armed forces is clearly exaggerated,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. “Those tanks will burn just like any others.” Moscow played down the move in an apparent attempt to save face as the West raised the stakes in Ukraine. Some Russian experts also empha sised that the supply of the deadly armour will be relatively limited and could take months

to reach the front.

On Thursday, Russia launched a new wave of missile and self-exploding drone attacks across Ukraine. The attack initially appeared to be a continuation of previous attacks rather than retaliation for the announcements on the tanks.

President Vladimir Putin, his diplomats and military leaders have repeatedly warned the West that supplying long-range weapons capable of striking deep inside Russia would mark a red line and trigger a massive retaliation.

While other weapons like tanks and certain air defence systems have drawn

UAE hints at huge investment in Pakistan amid economic turmoil

ISLAMABAD, JAN 26 (IANS): United Arab

warnings from Russian officials, the wording has been deliberately vague, perhaps to allow the Kremlin to avoid getting cornered by making specific threats.

Poland, the Czech Republic and other NATO allies have provided Ukraine with hundreds of smaller Soviet-made tanks from the Cold War era when they were part of the Soviet bloc.

Ukrainian armed forces, who have used similar aging weaponry, needed no extra training to use them. They played an important role on the battlefield, helping Ukraine reclaim broad swaths of territory in 11 months of fighting

Syrian Kurdish forces arrest IS commander in eastern region

However, militant sleeper cells persist and have since killed scores of Iraqis and Syrians. Syrian Kurdish and US forces frequently conduct raids targeting IS sleeper cells in northern and eastern Syria.

As Ukraine’s armoured units suffered attrition and stockpiles of the old T-72 tanks ran dry in the arsenals of its allies in Central and Eastern Europe, Kyiv has increasingly pushed for delivery of German-made Leopard 2 and US M1 Abrams tanks.

Western tank deliveries ‘direct involvement’ in conflict: Russia

The Kremlin said Thursday that a decision by Western countries to supply Ukraine with modern tanks meant that they were party to the conflict, after Berlin and Washington approved the weapons for Kyiv. “European capitals and Washington constantly give statements that sending various types of weapons, including tanks, in no way means their involvement in hostilities. We strongly disagree with this. In Moscow, this is perceived as direct involvement in the conflict and we see that this is growing,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

RAQQA, JAN 26 (AP): Syrian Kurdish-led forces captured a local commander of the Islamic State group in eastern Syria as part of an ongoing operation targeting sleeper cells in the city of Raqqa, the US-backed forces announced on Thursday.

The commander served as the chief of the extremist group’s faction for Raqqa and was among the 68 militants detained in the operation, the Syrian Democratic Forces said. The operation started earlier this week, in response to a December attack by IS that targeted military and security buildings in Raqqa and killed at least

Black boxes from Nepal plane crash to be sent to Singapore

KATHMANDU, JAN 26

(AP): The black boxes recovered from the Jan. 15 plane crash in Nepal are being sent to Singapore for analysis to identify the cause of the crash that killed all 72 people on board, officials said Thursday.

Both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder would be examined by experts at Singapore’s Transportation Safety Investigation Bureau.

“The Nepal investigating team is leaving on Friday with the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder where the data will be downloaded and analyzed,” said Civil Aviation Authority spokesperson Rajendra Kumar K.C.

It was initially suggested the black boxes be taken to France where the aircraft was manufactured, but Nepalese authorities now plan to send the recorders to Singapore.

A committee formed by the government is still looking into the cause of the Yeti Airlines flight crash.

Rescuers are combing the hillside for the remains of two people still missing since the crash Jan. 15 at the resort town of Pokhara, 200 kilometers (125 miles) west

of the capital, Kathmandu.

The twin-engine ATR 72-500 aircraft was approaching Pokhara International Airport in the Himalayan foothills when it plummeted into a gorge about 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) from the runway at an elevation of about 820 meters (2,700 feet).

While it’s still not clear what caused the crash, some aviation experts say video taken from the ground of the plane’s last moments indicated it went into a stall, although it’s unclear why.

It was carrying 68 passengers, including 15 foreign nationals, as well as four crew members. The foreigners included five Indians, four Russians, two South Koreans, and one each from Ireland, Australia, Argentina and France.

Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority has also said the airport’s instrument landing system will not be working until Feb. 26 — eight weeks after the airport began operations on Jan. 1. Aviation safety experts have said the absence reflects the poor air safety record in Nepal, where mountainous terrain and the resulting variable weather conditions make flying difficult.

six Syrian Kurdish fighters. A Kurdish commander, Mazloum Abdi, said they had indications of “serious preparations” by IS for attacks.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based opposition war monitor, said IS militants also targeted a military intelligence prison holding some 200 militants in the December attack.

IS lost all territorial control in Iraq and Syria in 2019, following a yearslong US-backed campaign that defeated the so-called caliphate, where Raqqa was once the IS de facto capital.

The captured IS commander was identified as Atallah alMaythan. Syrian Kurdish forces said he headed the militant group’s operations across Raqqa province, and allegedly “confessed to his involvement in planning and leading terrorist acts,” extorted money from residents in the area and kept IS sleeper cells in contact.

Some 5,000 Syrian Kurdish-led fighters are involved in the operation, and have already raided some 80 locations, their spokesperson, Farhad Shami, told The Associated Press. The USled coalition was providing air support, reconnaissance, and gathering intelligence, Shami added. This is the second recent operation by the USbacked forces in Syria. In late December, the Syrian Kurdish-led fighters targeted IS cells cells in al-Hol and Tal Hamis, following a surge in militant attacks.

BRUSSELS, JAN 26 (AP):

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said Thursday that antisemitism is on the rise in the Western world and urged the European Union to ensure that Jews can live safely on the continent where the Holocaust took place.

Speaking at the European Parliament on the eve of the annual commemorations of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp, Herzog said EU countries as well as the 27-nation bloc’s officials should use legislation, education and security to eradicate antisemitism.

“You must read the warning signs, detect the symptoms of the pandemic of antisemitism, and fight it at all costs,” he said. “Unfortunately, the picture is dis-

Emirates

(UAE)

President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has dropped clues that his government is planning to broaden its investment footprint in Pakistan as the country drastically needs foreign inflows to prop up its deteriorating economy.

The royal dignitary arrived in Pakistan on a private visit and held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who received the UAE President at the Chandna Airport along with other government functionaries, Geo News reported.

“Be prepared, the UAE will make a huge investment in Pakistan,” the sources quoted the UAE president as saying during a cordial meeting with the premier at the airport.

Shehbaz recalled his recent visit to the gulf country and emphasised that both countries would work on the understanding reached between the two leaders in various fields, during his visit to

the UAE.

The UAE President said that the brotherly relations between the two countries went back many decades and his father, who had immense love for Pakistan and its people, laid the foundation of their bilateral ties.

The President also assured the Prime Minister that the UAE would always stand by Pakistan, Geo News reported.

Taking to Twitter, the premier wrote: “Extremely delighted to receive my brother His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Za-

yed on his arrival in Pakistan, which is his second home. Building on our last meeting, we discussed ways (and) means to further strengthen our brotherly relations.”

The President expressed warm affection towards the prime minister on his arrival in Pakistan and took the premier to his personal jet, sources told Geo News.

The premier also met the family members of the president and held conversations with his children in the English and Arabic language, the sources added.

Israel prez urges EU to fight resurgent antisemitism

turbing. Deeply disturbing. Antisemitic discourse festers not only within dark regimes, but within the heartlands of the free, democratic West.”

Antisemitism gained traction during lockdowns as the coronavirus pandemic exacerbated hatred online. Herzog said antisemitism is spreading “at record pace, at the click of a button.”

“The distance between a viral video and a physical attack hardly exists at all,” he added. “The distance between a Facebook post and the smashing of headstones in a cemetery is shorter than we would think.”

In Germany, a group tracking antisemitism said it documented more than 2,700 incidents in the coun-

try in 2021, including 63 attacks and six cases of extreme violence, while Europe’s Fundamental Rights Agency said nine out of 10 Jews think antisemitism has increased in their country. Incidents of bias and hate speech have also been rising in the US. International Holocaust Remembrance Day

falls on the anniversary of the liberation by Soviet troops of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the most notorious of the death camps where Nazi Germany carried out its Final Solution seeking to murder the Jewish people of Europe. Nazi German forces killed 1.1 million people at Auschwitz, most of them Jews, but also Poles, Roma and others. The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution in 2005 establishing International Holocaust Remembrance Day as an annual commemoration. About 6 million European Jews and millions of other people were killed by the Nazis and their collaborators. Some 1.5 million were children.

OffIce Of the KeWhIMIa ZhaVIPfÜKO KROthO KOhIMa VIllage f el I c I tat IO n

We on behalf of all the Kewhimia Zhavipfüko Krotho Kohima Village would like to congratulate our member and former president Mrs Azenuo Pienyü on being promoted to the post of Director HoD Rural Development Nagaland.

The Krotho further wishes her good health and best of success in her future endeavours.

(MenguBeInuO lIeZIetsu) (MeDOVInuO WhuORIe) PRESIDENT KZK GEN.SECY KZK K-197/23 DP-407/23

Off I ce O f the e sh O u V I llage cO unc I l

Ref. No…………….

tuensang – 798612 : nagaland

Date 17/01/2023

A newly Eshou Village was inaugurated by Shri. Toyang Changkong Chang Hon’ble MLA on 17.01.2023.

Addressing the gathering he advised to keep peace and harmony in the new village and he also said to continue to work together towards the village development.

Programme was chaired by Shri. Y. Yohan Council Secretary, Invocation and Village Dedicatory prayer by Rev. Achu, Executive Secretary C.B.L.T. Welcome Address was delivered by Shri. M. Imlongchaba, Council Chairman and Short Speeches by Shri. N. Nungsanglemba, President, CKS Tuensang, Tuensang Village Chongpho Citizen, President Khudei Village Council GB., Ngangpong Village Council Chairman and Benediction prayer by Mr. B. Moa, Pastor Eshou Village.

Followed by Cultural Troupes, Tuensang Village C/Khel & Shanen Cultural Troupe, Sangdak Village.

M. Imlongchaba Chairman Eshou Village Council

The Leopard 2 is seen as one of the best-performing tank models worldwide. (File)

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Isaac Herzog

Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces fighters, take their positions at the defense wall of Gweiran Prison, Syria. AP

Zakir Hussain, MM Keeravaani, Padma Awards: Sunny Deol’s Gadar 2 to release on Aug 11

Raveena Tandon among recipients

Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, “RRR” music composer MM Keeravaani, actor Raveena Tandon, and singers Suman Kalyanpur and Vani Jairam were among 106 recipients of the coveted Padma Awards for the year 2023 announced on the eve of Republic Day.

According to an official statement, Hussain, also a composer and percussionist, was bestowed with the Padma Vibhushan, awarded for exceptional and distinguished service. The acclaimed musician had received Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan in 1988 and 2002, respectively.

Jairam and Kalyanpur were announced recipients of the Padma Bhushan, presented for

distinguished service of high order.

Jairam, who broke onto to the music scene with the song “Bole Re Papihara” from Jaya Bachchan’s debut as a leading lady in the 1971 film “Guddi”, has done playback for over a thousand Indian movies, recording over 10,000 songs across languages such as Kannada, Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Marathi, and Bengali, among others.

Kalyanpur, known for songs such as “Na Tum Hamen Jano” and “Aajkal Tere Mere Pyaar Ke Charche”, was one of the top singers of the time along with the late melody queen Lata Mangeshkar. A popular singer in the 1960s and 1970s, Kalyanpur recorded popular

tracks for movies in several languages including Hindi, Marathi, Assamese, Gujarati, Maithili, Bhojpuri, Rajasthani, and Punjabi. Keeravaani and Tandon were conferred with the Padma Shri, an award for distinguished service in any field.

Keeravaani, who last week received the Golden Globe award for the Telugu song “Naatu Naatu” from the epic period action drama “RRR”, only yesterday scooped up an Academy Award nomination for the track making it the first Indian song to reach the final five in the best original song category. The renowned music composer predominantly works in Telugu cinema but has credits across Hindi, Tamil, Kan-

nada and Malayalam film industries. Tandon, star of movies such as “Mohra”, “Satta”, and “Daman” in the 1990s and 2000s, dedicated the Padma Shri honour to her late father, film producer Ravi Tandon.

“... For this will spur me on to bigger and greater things in the field that I so love. This is a special day. My country has honoured me. I feel that I belong. Thank you, India! I owe this to my father,” Tandon, also an

environmentalist, added. Padma awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country, are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. These honours are given in various disciplines/ fields of activities, such as - art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc. (PTI)

OOn the occasion of Republic Day, Sunny Deol has treated his fans to the first look of his muchawaited film Gadar 2, co-starring Ameesha Patel and Utkarsh Sharma. On Instagram, he shared the poster in which the actor is looking fierce as ever and is holding a huge hammer. Sharing the poster he wrote his famous dialogue from the prequel of the film, “Hindustan Zindabaad Hai... Zindabaad Tha... Aur Zindabaad Rahega!” He added, “This Independence Day, we bring to you the biggest sequel in Indian cinema after two decades. #Gadar2 releasing in Cinemas on 11th August 2023.” Towards the end, he wished his fans, “#HappyRepublicDay”.

Soon after Sunny Deol shared the poster, excited fans flooded the comment section. A user wrote, “I’ll definitely watch this movie..” while another wrote, “The absolute OG action star #legend”

Helmed by Anil Sharma, Gadar 2 is the sequel to the 2001 film Gadar.In the sequel Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel and Utkasrh Sharma will be reprising the roles of Tara Singh, Sakeena and Jeete, respectively.

The sequel also stars Luv Sinha, Simrat Kaur, Manish Wadhwa and Gaurav Chopra in pivotal roles.

Speaking about the film Sunny Deol in an interview with Bollywood Hungama said, “Gadar - Ek Prem Katha has been an eminent part of my life, personally as well as professionally. Tara Singh from Gadar isn’t just a protagonist but went on to become a cult icon that defied all odds and crossed all boundaries for his Family and Love. Collaborating with the team after, 22 years was a creatively enriching experience.”

Produced by Zee Studios, Gadar 2 is scheduled to release on August 11, 2023. (Agencies)

‘Pathaan’ registers highest opening with Rs 55 crore

Shah Rukh Khan made a grand comeback to the big screen with his new Hindi film “Pathaan” raising a whopping Rs 55 crore nett and its dubbed versions bringing in additional Rs 2 crores on the opening day, the makers announced on Thursday.

Longsa cultural troupe presenting rice pounding at the 74th Republic Day celebration at Local ground, Wokha on January 26. (DIPR)

According to production house Yash Raj Films (YRF), the movie’s nett day one collection stood at Rs 55 crore, the “highest grossing first day for a Hindi film”. “Pathaan” was also released in Tamil and Telugu on Wednes -

day. The Siddharth Anand directorial, which faced boycott calls over the song “Besharam Rang”, marks Shah Rukh’s return to movies after a gap of over four years. His previous film was 2018’s “Zero”. YRF said “Pathaan” had set multiple new records, including the “widest Hindi release of all time in India” and “highest grossing first day for a non-holiday release”. The first day gross collection of the stylish spy thriller is also the “highest ever” in Shah Rukh’s career as

well as for co-stars John Abraham and Deepika Padukone, director Anand and YRF, the studio stated in a press release.

“It is a historic day for Indian cinema and we are humbled to see the love and appreciation that is flowing for ‘Pathaan’ globally. “For ‘Pathaan’ to shatter records in this fashion on a non holiday, just proves that the theatrical business is here to stay, provided we make films that entice people to come to the cinemas to witness a never seen before ex -

perience that entertains them thoroughly,” Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, said in a statement. With its record day one haul, “Pathaan” has exceeded the expectations of the industry experts who were banking on the action spectacle to pull out Bollywood from the trenches of the pandemic and a string of box-office duds.

The film opened on Wednesday in over 5,000 screens across the country, including big cities like Delhi and Mumbai. The movie has a five-day ex -

tended opening weekend as it released just the day before Republic Day.

Till Tuesday, “Pathaan” sold with 4.19 lakh tickets sold in advance booking reflecting 80 per cent occupancy on day one, even for early morning shows beginning at 6 am or 7 am, said industry insiders. Buoyed by the phenomenal response to the star-studded entertainer, production banner YRF on Wednesday said it had added a post midnight 12.30 am show across the country. (PTI)

Which vitamins, supplements are a waste of money?

Millions of people pop vitamins and supplements every day in hopes of staving off heart disease and cancer, but a new report finds the evidence to support that strategy is largely lacking.

While there is some research showing that a daily multivitamin may slightly reduce cancer risk, the bigger picture suggests a lack of enough evidence to say that supplements can help prevent heart disease and cancer.

There is, however, enough evidence to state that beta carotene supplements may actually increase risk of lung cancer, especially among folks who are at high risk, and may also increase the chances of dying from heart disease.

What’s more, vitamin E provides no cancer or heart disease prevention benefits.

Those are the main takeaways from the new report from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent panel of national experts that regularly make evidence-based recommendations about preventive health issues. This report updates the group’s 2014 stance on this topic.

“This is not a negative message, and it isn’t saying that there are no [cancer or heart disease prevention benefit] for vitamins and minerals,” cautioned task force vice chair Dr. Michael Barry. He’s the director of the Informed Medical Decisions Program in the Health Decision Sciences Center at Massachusetts General Hospital, in Boston.

“We called for more research with longer follow-up, as well as studies across different racial and ethnic groups, to see if there are variations,” Barry added.

The recommendations are based on a review of 84 studies on multivitamins, supplement pairs or individual supplements, and cardiovascular disease and

cancer risk in healthy, nonpregnant adults, published between January 2013 and February 2022.

“For the most part, vitamin and mineral supplementation did not reduce cancer or heart disease [risk],” said Elizabeth O’Connor. She is an

associate director at Kaiser Permanente EvidenceBased Practice Center in Portland, Ore. O’Connor is one of the researchers who helped analyze the studies included in the new recommendations. Research did show a 7% reduction in cancer

risk among people taking a multivitamin, compared to those taking a dummy pill or placebo. Still, the studies that led to this conclusion had limitations, including short follow-up. “Even though this finding was statistically significant, there are some lingering questions,” O’Connor said. Importantly, the new recommendations do not apply to people with known or suspected nutritional deficiencies or special needs, such as people who are or may become pregnant and

need folic acid. The recommendations were published online June 21 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

“Vitamin and mineral supplements are not a silver bullet for healthy Americans,” said Dr. Jenny Jia, who wrote an editorial accompanying the new study. She is an instructor of general internal medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, in Chicago.

Vitamin D Deficien-

cy: How Much Vitamin D Is Enough?

Instead of popping vitamins, focus on eating a balanced diet that is loaded with fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and getting the recommended screening tests to help prevent heart disease and cancer, she said. “Vitamins and minerals are a distraction, and offer minimal to no benefit for healthy American adults,” Jia noted.

Dr. Mark Moyad is the Jenkins/Pokempner

director of preventive & alternative medicine at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor. He sees things differently, especially when it comes to daily multivitamins. “They may reduce cancer, and even though it’s a modest reduction, this is not a small deal,” said Moyad, who had no ties to the research.

“It’s not so much of a Wild West out there anymore when it comes to supplements,” he added. Many third-party groups

now offer seals of approval for brands that are quality tested and contain what the label says they do.

“If you do take supplements, seek out ones that have a clean track record,” Moyad suggested. Meanwhile, The Council for Responsible Nutrition, which represents the supplements industry, did not respond to requests for comment on the task force report.

By Denise Mann HealthDay Reporter

Barcelona beat Sociedad; reach Copa SFs

MADRID, JAN 26 (AP):

The days of Barcelona fans jeering Ousmane Dembélé are long gone.

There were only cheers from the crowd at the Camp Nou after the France forward led the hosts to the semifinals of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday.

Dembélé scored the winning goal early in the second half as Barcelona defeated 10-man Real Sociedad 1-0 to return to the last four after a one-year absence.

The result ended a nine-game winning streak for Sociedad, which played a man down from the 40th minute after Brais Méndez was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets.

It was Sociedad’s 27th straight loss to Barcelona as a visitor. It hasn’t won at the Catalan club in 31 matches, dating to 1991.

The Basque Country side arrived as one of the hottest teams in Spain with 21 wins in 28 matches in all competitions this season, with 13 of those wins coming in away games. It had lost only four times overall and is third in the Spanish

Barcelona and Real Sociedad players in action during the Spanish Copa del Rey match in Barcelona, on Wednesday.

league, six points behind leader Barcelona.

Barcelona was in control for most of the match, though, and opened the scoring in the 52nd through Dembélé’s angled shot from inside the area after a pass into space by defender Jules Koundé.

Barcelona fans had been upset with Dembélé after he refused to accept the club’s decision to loan

him to another club last summer. He has been playing well and been crucial for the team recently, though, and again created several opportunities Wednesday before scoring his third goal in six matches.

Some fans were on their feet to give him an ovation when Dembélé was replaced by Ansu Fati in the 84th. Sociedad had a couple of good chances near the

Lillard scores 60 points as Blazers beat Jazz

PORTLAND, JAN 26

(AP): Damian Lillard went off on Wednesday night at the Moda Center. Lillard put up a season-high 60 points to lead the Portland Trail Blazers to a 134-124 win over the Utah Jazz after a wild scoring outburst in the third quarter. He narrowly missed his career best of 61 points, however, after a late 3-pointer fell short.

Lillard now has 15 50-point games in his career, which is the sixth most in league history. Wednesday also marked the fourth game where he’s scored 60 points or better, which is the third most in NBA history. It’s also the third 60-point game across the league this season, following 71 from the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Donovan Mitchell and 60 from the Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic.

Lillard entered halftime with 26 points in what was a tight battle with the Jazz. It was the third quarter, however, that finally pushed the Trail Blazers ahead. Lillard put up 24 of his 60 points in that frame, and had 50 with a full minute left in the period.

ISL: NEUFC sign Spanish midfielder

Joseba

NEW DELHI, JAN 26 (IANS): Indian Super League (ISL) club

Beitia

He closed out that scoring run while putting up 20 straight points for the Trail Blazers, too. Now, it took Lillard a bit to add to that total. He sat the first few minutes of the fourth quarter, and then hit a fadeaway shot from the short corner near the halfway mark to get to 52. He slowly added to it over the coming minutes, and hit the 60-point mark with about 90 seconds left while at the free-throw line — which put Portland up by 14.

By then, with the game out of reach, Utah started pulling its starters. Lillard got one final look at a 3-pointer, which would have set his career high, but

he was just off the mark.

Lillard finished 21of-29 from the field and 9-of-15 from behind the arc. He added eight assists and seven rebounds.

Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz with 24 points and four rebounds, and Collin Sexton finished with 19 points off the bench. The Jazz have lost two of their last three, and are now 2526 on the season.

Jerami Grant added 19 points and five rebounds for the Trail Blazers in the win, and Anfernee Simons finished with 16 points and nine rebounds. Jusuf Nurkic was the only other Portland player to score in double figures with his 10 points.

REJOINDER

Joseba Beitia

NorthEast United FC has added strength to the middle of their park with the signing of Spanish midfielder Joseba Beitia.

“Here to strengthen the center of the park! Welcoming Joseba Beita to the Highlands”, NorthEast United FC said in a tweet.

The Spaniard who is no stranger to Indian football having featured in the I-League for over three seasons will look to have an instant impact at the Highlanders who are looking to end the season on a high under new head coach Vincenzo Annese.

Beitia, a youth product of La Liga side Real Sociedad spent the first nine years of his career in Spain playing for various clubs before making India his home.

Having signed for Mohun Bagan in 2019, he went on to win the I-League with the Kolkata club before representing RoundGlass Punjab and Rajasthan United in the I-League.

end but couldn’t capitalize on them, with Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen coming up with big saves. Barcelona was eliminated in the round of 16 last season and won the Copa in 2021 for its last title before the departure of Lionel Messi. The Catalan club has won four matches in a row, including the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Ma-

Batra reaches career-high 33 in ITTF rankings

NEW DELHI, JAN 26 (IANS): Indian star paddler Manika Batra gained three spots in the latest International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) world rankings to reach a career-best 33rd in women’s singles.

Manika’s impressive outing at the WTT Contender Doha last week, where she reached the semifinals, helped her to gain three spots in the world rankings.

drid in Saudi Arabia.

Xavi had Robert Lewandowski back after the Poland striker couldn’t play against Getafe in the Spanish league because of a suspension.

Sociedad was without veteran playmaker David Silva because of a muscle injury.

Barcelona eliminated third-division club Ceuta in the round of 16, while Sociedad got past Mallorca.

Osasuna defeated visiting Sevilla 2-1 in extra time to reach the Copa semifinals for the first time since 2002-03.

Abde Ezzalzouli scored the winner on a 99thminute breakaway after Sevilla had forced extra time with a stoppage-time goal by Youssef En-Nesyri.

The hosts opened the scoring through Chimy Ávila in the 71st.

Sevilla, one point from the relegation zone in the Spanish league, last made it to the semifinals in 2020-21.

On Thursday, Real Madrid hosts city rival Atletico Madrid and Athletic Bilbao visits Valencia. The draw for the semifinals will be on Monday.

Jadeja caps comeback from injury with seven-wicket haul

CHENNAI, JAN 26 (PTI):

Star all-rounder Ravindra

Jadeja on Thursday picked up seven wickets for Saurashtra in Tamil Nadu’s second innings to show he was back to full fitness ahead of the all important Test series against Australia. The left-arm spinner was in his element as he ran through the TN batting lineup to lead Saurashtra’s fightback after conceding a huge first innings lead in the Ranji Trophy tie. With the Test series against Australia looming,

Jadeja’s impressive comeback from injury would be a welcome sign for the team management. The visiting team was dismissed for 192 in response to TN’s first innings score of 324, conceding a lead of 132 runs. However, Jadeja’s heroics helped Saurashtra bundle out the home team for 133 in just 36.1 overs in the second innings.

Needing 266 runs for an outright win, the former Ranji champions lost the wicket of opening batter Jay Gohil (0) to end the day at 4 for 1. Resuming at the

overnight 92 for 3, Saurashtra must have pinned hopes on Jadeja coming up with a substantial knock to swell the score. However, the stand in captain could make only 15 (23 balls, 3 fours) before B Aparajith trapped in front of the wicket. Young left-arm spinner S Ajith Ram and fellow spinner M Siddharth did well for TN, picking up three wickets each to engineer a collapse. From 101 for 3, Saurashtra were bowled out for 192 in 79.4 overs with Chirag Jani (49) being the top-scorer.

R-Day exhibition match: DC XI beat MDCA XI by 21 runs

MOKOKCHUNG, JAN 26

(NPN): On the occasion of 74 Republic Day Celebration, an exhibition cricket match was played between DC XI and MDCA XI at Imkongmeren sports complex here on Thursday.

DC XI captain Manoj Kumar, SP Mokokchung, winning the toss opted to bat first. The team scored a total of 147 runs in the allotted 20 overs for the loss of eight wickets. MDCA XI could score only 126 runs for the loss of eight wickets. DC XI won the match by 21 runs.

Shaw will have to wait considering how Gill is batting: Hardik

RANCHI, JAN 26 (PTI): India skipper Hardik Pandya on Thursday said inform opener Shubman Gill will start the T20 series against New Zealand ahead of Prithvi Shaw, who has made a comeback to the national team.

Considering Gill’s sensational run in ODIs, Hardik said his selection was a no-brainer.

Gill has smashed three hundreds including a double ton in his last four

This rejoinder is issued with regard to a publication that has been published in the dailies on the 24th January 2023, with the caption “ YAONGYIMSEN VILLAGE- FORMER & PRESENT OFFICE BEARERS OF NDPP 22 ARKAKONG AC EXTENDING SUPPORT TO SHRI. NUKLUTOSHI.” We the following undermentioned members of Yaongyimsen Village would like to clarify that the declaration is totally false and misleading, it has been published without the consent of the undermentioned individuals. That, we vehemently condemn the 22 Arkakong AC, Yaongyimsen Village supporters of Ex-Minister Mr. Nuklutoshi for falsely dragging our names to further their political agendas and misleading the public with fabricated information. Their unwarranted act of treachery towards the innocent village members is highly condemnable and will have befitting ramifications.

We, the undermentioned members hereby declare that we are very much intact and standing firm in support of Mr. Imnatiba, MLA 22 A/C Arkakong for the upcoming General Election 2023.

1. Takosangba

2. Tianaro

3. Moasangla

4. Chubalemla

5. Imkongtemjen

6. Bendangsunep

7. Sosangba

8. Imlimanen

9. Imsuinla

10. Imtichuba

11. Nungsangtula

12. Limameren

13. Chubawati

15. Limasanen

16. Aoyanger

17. Imtiwapang

18. Imtimar

19. O. Matsung

20. Imtisunep

21. Tsungrosongba

22. Bendangonen

23. Talikaba

24. Arenkala

25. Imnajungla

26. Sentichuba

27. Limainla

28. Taliangla

29. Tinulemba

30. Moasunep

31. Meyitizung

32. Putisangla

33. Tsuknungkala

34. Tiakumzuk

35. Onenkaba

36. Moazungba

37. Takulila

38. Tianungsang

39. Sentirenla

40. Imenukshi

innings. Ishan Kishan is expected to open alongside Gill.

“Shubman has done well and will start the series. The way he is batting and was already in the team,” said Hardik ahead of the first T20I.

Hardik bowled with the new ball in the T20Is against Sri Lanka before

doing the same in the third ODI against New Zealand on Tuesday with Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj being rested from the game. Hardik said he likes bowling with the new ball.

“I have always enjoyed bowling with the new ball. Since quite a number of years whenever I bowl in the nets, I pick the new ball.

I am used to the old ball so that I don’t feel the need to practice with the old ball as much. It has helped in match situations. “With our two main bowlers rested in the last game, I had to be ready. But (it) has never been about pressure, half of the times pressure is gone if you prepare well,” said Hardik.

On 10 th January 2023, a group of NDPP Supporters (Kijung Lanur) comprising of more than 200 young and energetic people of Yaongyimsen Village under 22 Arkakong Constituency held a joint meeting and resolved the following decision.

1. The members acknowledged the present MLA & Advisor Shri. Imnatiba for his tireless and selfless service towards the welfare of the constituency and the state in general.

2. The members resolved and reaffirmed to work whole heartedly with firm determination for Shri. Imnatiba, the present MLA & Advisor of 22 Arkakong A/C in the forth coming State General Assembly Election for progress and solidarity of the Arkakong Constituency. The members further extend its best wishes and prayers.

Ravindra Jadeja celebrates with teammates after taking 7 wickets in the second innings against Tamil Nadu in Chennai, Thursday. (PTI)

Damian Lillard (C) dribbles the ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Portland on Wednesday.

Players along with others after exhibition cricket match between DC XI and MDCA XI at Imkongmeren sports complex, Mokokchung on Thursday.

Hardik Pandya

Manika

Rybakina, Sabalenka in women’s final

MELBOURNE, JAN 26 (AP): What all seemed so different, so daunting, even, about trying to win a Grand Slam title to Elena Rybakina a little more than six months ago is now coming rather naturally.

And if she can win one more match, she will add a championship at the Australian Open to the one she collected at Wimbledon.

Rybakina, a 23-yearold who represents Kazakhstan, reached her second final in a span of three major tournaments by beating Victoria Azarenka 7-6 (4), 6-3 at Melbourne Park on Thursday, signaling a rapid rise toward the top of tennis.

“Everything was new at Wimbledon,” Rybakina said after hitting nine aces in the semifinals to raise her tournament-leading total to 44. “Now I more or less

understand what to expect.”

That could come in handy Saturday. That is when she will face No. 5 seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who reached her first Grand Slam title match at age 24 by beating unseeded Magda Linette 7-6 (1), 6-2 in Thursday’s second

semifinal. Sabalenka improved to 10-0 in 2023 and has won all 20 sets she’s contested this season.

More importantly, the victory over Linette gave Sabalenka her first taste of success in a Slam semi after going 0-3 at that stage until

Hockey WC: India demolish Japan 8-0

now, losing each previous previous attempt by a 6-4 score in the third set.

Rybakina and Sabalenka employ a somewhat similar brand of tennis, relying on big serves and big hitting at the baseline. Sabalenka is far less cautious, though, and her penchant for highrisk, high-reward play was evident against Linette, who had never before been past the third round in 29 appearances at majors.

Sabalenka finished with a whopping 33-9 edge in winners, but also compiled more unforced errors than Linette. The key to both semifinals, really, was a first-set tiebreaker. Azarenka lost the mark on her strokes, for the most part, making things smoother for Rybakina, while Sabalenka raced to a 6-0 lead in hers. It wasn’t the case that each

IndonesiaMasters:LakshyainQFs,Sainaout

JAKARTA, JAN 26

(IANS): India’s Lakshya

Sen on Thursday advanced to the men’s singles quarterfinals of the Indonesia Masters Super 500 tournament while Saina Nehwal crashed out in the women’s singles second round.

Sen, seeded seventh, came from a game down to win 19-21, 21-8, 21-17 against Malaysia’s NG Tze Yong in the round of 16, a rematch of the Commonwealth Games final.

Both the shuttlers were evenly matched in the early exchanges and were tied at 13-all in the first game before Malaysian took the lead and clinched the opening game. But Lakshya bounced back and dominated the second

game to draw level gameall. The deciding game was a tighter affair as the

Indian shuttler had to win the final three points on the trot to seal the spot in the last-eight.

In the quarterfinal, Lakshya will lock horns with fourth-seed Indonesian Jonatan Christie. This will be the pair’s second meeting and first since the 2020 Badminton Asia Team Championships knockout round, where the Indian emerged victorious in grueling straight sets.

On the other hand, Saina bowed out in the second round after suffering 15-21, 7-21 loss at hands of eighth-seed Chinese shuttler Yue Han.

Later in the day, Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa will be in action in the women’s doubles round of 16 match against Indonesians Lanny Tria Mayasari and Ribka Sugiarto.

and every shot Sabalenka hit landed right on a line, but it must have seemed that way to Linette. Rybakina’s win over Azarenka, the champion at Melbourne Park in 2012 and 2013, added to what already was an impressive run through a string of top opponents. She also beat No. 1 Iga Swiatek and No. 17 Jelena Ostapenko — both owners of major titles — and 2022 Australian Open runner-up Danielle Collins.

Rybakina delivered serves at up to 117 mph (189 kph) Thursday and stinging groundstrokes that she used to close points seemingly at will. Her performance was particularly noteworthy against a returner and defender as established on hard courts as Azarenka, a former No. 1 and a threetime runner-up at the U.S. Open.

ROURKELA, JAN 26 (PTI): Under-fire captain Harmanpreet Singh finally came good with his drag flick as he and young striker Abhishek struck a brace each as India demolished Asian Games champions Japan 8-0 in an inconsequential FIH Men’s World Cup classification match here on Thursday.

India, who had made a shock exit from the showpiece event after losing to New Zealand in their crossover match, played their best game but it came too late in the tournament.

The hosts, who scored four goals each in the third and fourth quarters, will now play South Africa in the ninth to 12th place match on Saturday.

In other classification matches here, South Africa beat Malaysia 6-3 while debutants Wales defeated

India’s Manpreet Singh during a classification match against Japan in Rourkela, Thursday. (PTI) France 2-1 in the penalty shootout to register their maiden World Cup win after the sides were locked 2-2 at the end of regulation time.

Wales will face Argentina, who hammered neighbours Chile 8-0 in another classification match, in the 9th to 12th place match on Saturday.

SASA 61st sports meet 2023 concludes

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 26 (NPN): The 61st annual sports meet 2023 of Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA) concluded at Phesama village under Kohima district on Thursday.

In Women’s Volleyball, Kidima Youth Organization emerged as the winner while Kezo Town Youth Organization came in second.

Visayonu Kintso and Nokethonu Kintso, both from Kidima, bagged the best spiker and setter titles respectively. Mima Youth Organization emerged the champion title of Men’s Volleyball while Phesama Youth Organization fin -

Babar, Stokes, Sciver bag ICC Cricketers of the Year 2022 awards

DUBAI, JAN 26 (PTI): It was double delight for Pakistan skipper Babar Azam as he was picked for both the ‘ODI Cricketer of the Year’ and the ‘Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the ICC Men’s Cricketer of 2022’ on Thursday.

A year after he won the ‘ODI Cricketer of the Year’ in 2021, the charismatic batter continued to dominate world cricket and was the only player to breach the 2000-run mark in 2022 across all formats. Babar went past that milestone in style, amassing 2,598 runs at an imposing average of 54.12.

The Pakistani cricketer’s eight hundreds and 17 fifties during the calendar year was the best of his career so far. The 2021 ICC Men’s ODI Player of the Year continued to rule in the 50-over format, scoring

679 runs in nine matches and it was no surprise to see the 28-year-old win the title for the second successive year. Stokes, Men’s Test Cricketer of Year: Talismanic England skipper and

ISL: Guarrotxena’s hat-trick propels FC Goa into 3rd place

allrounder Ben Stokes, who redefined Test cricket in 2022, was adjudged the best in the longer format.

Since taking over as England captain, Stokes has led the team to nine wins from 10 Tests, completing

series victories over New Zealand and South Africa at home, beating India in the one-off postponed Test to level the series at 2-2, and hammering Pakistan 3-0 away from home -- England’s best ever margin of victory in the country.

Sciver reigns supreme in women’s cricket: England skipper and star allrounder Nat Sciver also made it a double. She was declared winner of the ‘Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year’ as well as the ‘Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year’.

Sciver hit 1,346 runs

MARGAO, JAN 26 (AGENCIES): Iker Guarrotxena scored a hat-trick inside the opening quarter, the fastest of this season, to lift FC Goa up into third place in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) standings after a 4-2 victory over East Bengal FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Thursday. The 12-minute salvo from Guarrotxena took his goal tally for the season into double figures and propelled the Spaniard to

the top of the goalscoring charts. The result also struck a blow to East Bengal FC’s playoff hopes, and they now find themselves ten points off sixth place with five games to go. The Gaurs made no changes to their lineup from the previous game as head coach Carlos Pena only changed the formation from a 4-2-3-1 to a 4-1-2-3. The Torch Bearers made three changes that saw the inclusion of Ivan Gonzalez, Jerry Lalrinzuala and

Sumeet Passi in the starting XI. FC Goa have moved up into third place, although Kerala Blasters, ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC have two games in hand just below them. Edu Bedia picked up his fourth yellow card of the season and will miss the Gaur’s next encounter against Odisha FC on February 6. East Bengal FC are quickly running out of time and will take on Kerala Blasters in their next Hero ISL game on February 3

Tuolie Seleyi with officials and finalist teams of men’s volleyball on Thursday at Phesama. (NP) ished runner-up. Men’s best spiker title was bagged by Menuokhoo Ngukha (Mima) and Keneiso Tepa (Mima) as best

setter. Tuolie Seleyi, retired director SCERT Nagaland, graced the valedictory function as the guest. The programme was

chaired by SASA publicity secretary Ketounei-o Zashümo while vote of thanks was proposed by treasurer Beto Sale.

and took 22 wickets in 33 matches in the year, captaining England for much of her side’s home summer.

She was exceptional in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022, finishing as the tournament’s thirdhighest scorer and playing a huge part in England’s qualification for the final.

In ODIs, she scored 833 runs and took 11 wickets from 17 matches. Illingworth, best umpire: Englishman Richard Illingworth was adjudged ‘ICC Umpire of Year’ for a second time. In 2019 too he was adjudged the ‘Best Umpire’.

Olympics 2024: IOC opens door to Russian, Belarusian athletes

LAUSANNE (SWITZERLAND), JAN 26 (IANS): The International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Executive Board has paved the way for Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games, citing that “no athlete should be prevented from competing just because of their passport”.

The IOC said that Russian and Belarusian athletes would participate in competitions as “neutral athletes” and in no way represent their state or any other organisation in their country. The decision came

after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised that “Russian athletes should not take part in Paris Olympics 2024” during his phone call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, launched in February last year, the IOC Executive Board recommended that International Sports Federations and sports event organisers not invite or allow participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials in international competitions.

Elena Rybakina Aryna Sabalenka

Lakshya Sen Saina Nehwal

Babar Azam Ben Stokes Nat Sciver

FC Goa and East Bengal FC players in action during the ISL match on Thursday.