21 Jan 2023

Nagaland

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BJP forum wants 30:30 seat sharing

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 20 (NPN):

Implementing seat sharing arrangement as per 2018 election between NDPP (40) and BJP (20) BJP for the 2023 polls is proving a difficult task as the recent meeting at New Delhi proved.

The seat sharing was being finalised at a meeting in presence of union minister for home Amit Shah.

The NDPP team was led by chief minister Neiphiu Rio, secretary general Abu Metha, general secretary Rusemtong Longkumer while representatives for

This is it!

BJP Nagaland included state president Temjen Imna Along and dy. chief minister Y. Patton.

Pughoboto BJP stages dharna over ticket issue Tokheho for oil exploration to boost State’s economy Nagalandlosing approx.Rs5crore dailyinrevenue

What led to uproar in Nagaland was the report carried in social media that NDPP secretary general Abu Metha claimed he was threatened by some NSCN(I-M) member(s) to make sitting NDPP legislator Y. Vikheho Swu as alliance candidate for 13 Pughoboto assembly constituency.

It may be recalled that in 2018, BJP candidate Dr. Sukhato A. Sema contested as alliance candidate and narrowly lost by 70 votes to then sitting NPF candidate Y. Vikheho Swu (now with NDPP).

The report on social media has led to BJP Pughoboto stage a dharna in front of the state unit office because of the report and also since ticket issuance has been kept in abeyance for the constituency.

At Kohima scores of BJP workers from 13 Pughoboto constituency condemned the life threat on Abu Metha. The writing on banners and placards demanded that Abu Metha also reveal the identities of those who had issued the threat on his life. Some also

read that Naga solution could not be brought by NDPP alone while some of the members voiced anguish over the issue that was doing the rounds on social media platforms.

Addressing a section of media persons at the protest venue, legal adviser of the BJP mandal, Joshua Sheqi, said the reason for their dharna was the report on social media that Metha had made a statement in front of central authorities that there was disturbance from some functionaries of NSCN (I-M) regarding issuing of ticket in Pughoboto constituency, for which the ticket issue had been kept in abeyance.

Sheqi said that being concerned and matured voters and informed members of public, the BJP members were not convinced about the social media report. He said since there were no clear evidence, the party members were not blaming anyone.

(Cont’d on p-8)

CM,NDPPrefutereportofthreat

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio and NDPP senior vice president Rusemtong Longkumer in a statement refuted a report in a YouTube channel ‘Dimapur Today’ that quoted NDPP secretary general Abu Metha as having said that he was getting life threats to allocate party ticket in 13 Pughoboto Assembly constituency.

They said the channel, citing sources, had falsely claimed that at a meeting between leaders of NDPP and BJP that took place in Delhi on Thursday in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and State BJP leaders, including deputy chief minister Y Patton and State BJP president Temjen Imna Along, that Metha had stated that he was getting life threats to allocate NDPP ticket.

Rio and Longkumer, who were also present at the meeting, clarified that such a statement was never made by the NDPP secretary general nor discussed in the meeting.

NSCN(I-M)rejectsallegation

Outrightly rejecting the “baseless claims and allegations”, NSCN (I-M) said such misleading news floating in social media was only targeted to put NSCN in bad light. In a statement, circulated on social media, NSCN (I-M) MIP said “it is a matter of regret that NSCN’s name has been dragged into the issue of seats sharing between NDPP and BJP in the ensuing Nagaland state assembly election.”

“Be it 13 A/C Pughoboto or any other constituency NSCN has not involved in any manner whatsoever,” it said. MIP said NSCN would not stoop low to that level as alleged to favour the 13 Pughoboto AC or for that matter for any candidate.

DIMAPUR, JAN 20 (NPN): As the number of intending candidates as well as party workers from other parties to BJP continues to grow, there is dismay within BJP against finalization of the NDPP(40):BJP(20) seat sharing agreement in Delhi on Thursday. According to BJP Intending Candidates Forum convenor and former minister Nuklotoshi, the forum has appealed to the Central leaders to reconsider its decision and increase the seat sharing deal to 30:30.

While acknowledging the sagacity and wisdom of the Central leaders for such a decision, Nuklotoshi however said that by signing a “one sided agreement, the BJP has missed a very great opportunity to form a strong and stable government which has a strong national interest. He opined the forthcoming election was an opportunity for the BJP to contest in all the Assembly seats if not, then at least to reconsider amending the seat sharing agreement even on 30:30 basis for both NDPP and BJP.

The forum said the assessment carried out from ground zero indicated a positive response and atmosphere for the BJP to win more seats even on its own with winnable candidates within the forum.

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, JAN 20 (NPN): Lok Sabha member Tokheho Yepthomi has suggested exploration of oil and natural gas to boost the State’s economy through royalty from oil revenue.

Addressing media persons here at Hotel Acacia, Tokheho pointed out that Nagaland was losing approximately Rs 5 crore daily or Rs 1,825 crore annually in revenue, even as the Centre was spending a colossal amount on oil imports –$111.9 billion in 2018-19 and $101.4 billion in 2019-20.

He stressed on proper utilisation of State’s resources for the future of Naga society. He recalled that Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) was given permission in 1973 for survey and investigation, and the State government was paid oil royalty of Rs 33.3 crore during the period 1981-1994. He said drilling sites were set up at Changpang, Hozukhe on the bank of Zubza river,

Khonpanala and Toshezu for extraction. However, he lamented that the pipes laid by ONGC were destroyed and stolen from the sites.

The MP pointed out that while Nagaland had stopped extraction of oil owing to various reasons, ONGC continued its operations in Assam and had already set up 39 oil fields, of which 27 were operational. He claimed that the Government of Assam had received Rs 17,995.83 crore 2011-2021 as oil royalty.

Referring to setting up of medical college in the State, he said the Centre’s share of Rs 242.50 crore had already been released, though the project was still incomplete. As Nagaland was the only State without a medical college, he mentioned that the Centre had provided funds to set up two medical colleges– in Kohima and Mon.

(Cont’d on p-8)

Tokheho Yepthomi (NP)

Placards on display during the dharna outside State BJP office in Kohima. (NP)

“Well

Notifications, directives related to state assembly election

DIMAPUR: With the announcement of state assembly election by the Election Commission of India, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Nagaland and Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of respective districts have issued various directives to be followed by all departments, political parties, candidates and public.

Adll. CEO on govt advt.

In a notification, Addl. Chief Electoral Officer, Ruokuovituo Khezhie informed that no advertisements will be issued in electronic and print media highlighting the achievements of the government at the cost of public exchequer.

Addl. CEO informed that any advertisement already been released for telecast/broadcast or publication in the print media, must be stopped forthwith and that no such advt will be published in any newspapers, magazines, etc, i.e. in print media and should be immediately withdrawn. In this regard, all concerned have been requested to strictly ensure enforcement and compliance of the commission’s instructions.

DC Mkg informs employees; bank managers

DC and District Election Officer, Mokokchung, Shashank Pratap Singh has directed all Head of Offices (HoDs) and all the government employees under Mokokchung district to be in station with immediate effect. All HoDs have been directed to ensure their presence and also their subordinate officers and staff in their respective place of posting. Any government employee on leave of absence on medical ground shall be recalled for appearing in person before the Medical Board. Disciplinary action shall be initiated against any errant officials as per the provision of the

Solution should be based on FA: NPGN/NNC (N/A)

DIMAPUR: NPGN/ NNC(N/A) has appreciated the NSCN(I-M) for the steadfast stand on August 3, 2015 Framework Agreement (FA) signed between the NSCN (I-M) and the centre and reiterated that Naga political settlement solution should be based on the framework agreement.

NPGN/NNC (N/A) president, T. Ovung in a

press statement said that there will be “bloodshed and war” if solution was not done based on FA as some Nagas would be excluded.

Ovung said that FA was for “Nagalim, includes all Nagas of Nagaland, Nagas of Manipur, Nagas of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagas of Assam, no Nagas would be excluded”.

Therefore, Ovung appealed the Naga people to support the FA which was inclusive and will enable the future generation to live in harmony.

Meanwhile, Ovung said that holding of election will not have any effect on the Naga political issue at present as “Indian election was not related to our goal”.

law. DC also informed all the bank managers/branch managers under Mokokchung district to consider a single window with dedicated staff so as to facilitate prospective candidates for opening of separate Bank Account on priority basis.

DC Mkg constitutes MCC committee: DC Mokokchung under his chairmanship has constituted Model Code of Conduct (MCC) committee in the district. The district level standing committee comprises of the following members: DC & District Election Officer, Mokkchung as chairman; Superintendent of police; EAC Ongpangkong and DPRO Mokokchung; president/

secretary/representative of all political parties and Asst. Election Officer, Mokkchung as members.

DC Kohima holds meeting with political parties and stakeholders

In connection with the ensuing general election 2023, DC Kohima held meeting with the representative of political parties at DC conference hall Kohima on January 20, 2023. DC and DEO explained all the legal provisions and instructions of the Election Commission relating to expenditure and its monitoring and the consequences of failure to comply with them. The chairman also informed about the ceiling limit of expenditure for the

upcoming election. The political parties were also sensitized on various ECI instructions and guidelines on MCC, EE and IT related matters by the concerned Nodal Officers. Altogether, ten representatives of political parties attended the meeting. Later, a meeting of the District Level Standing Committee on Model Code of Conduct was held with the stakeholders.

DC Dimapur briefs political parties on EC guidelines

Deputy Commissioner also the DEO for Dimapur District, Sachin Jaiswal at a meeting with the representatives of different political parties on January 20 briefed on the

guidelines of the Election Commission with regard to approval from Media certification and Monitoring Committee for any political related advertisement and news. He further apprised them for taking permission from the RO, 48 hours before holding any political rallies, meetings etc. Sachin also informed the political parties about the ceiling expenditure of a candidate which should not exceed Rs 28 lakhs per candidate from the date of filing of nomination of a candidate till the date of counting results.

DCP Dimapur, Vesupra who also attended the meeting, briefed the representatives of political parties about the common offences like booth capturing, damaging EVMs, impersonation and the legal proceedings thereof.

Meanwhile, rate chart for Dimapur District Election Expenditure Monitoring was handed over to all the representatives of political parties.

CP Dimapur directs arms licence holders

To ensure measures for peaceful, free and fair poll during the general election, Commissioner of Police (CP) and District

Magistrate, Dimapur, Kevithuto Sophie has directed all arms licence holders under Dimapur, Chumoukedima and Niuland districts to deposit their licensed Arms to the nearest Police Station without fail on or before February 10, 2023. CP warned that failure to comply with this order will hall invite prosecution of the licence holder under the Arms Act, 1959 and may lead to cancellation of their arms licence.

DC Longleng issues order

In order to conduct free & fair election and to maintain peaceful atmosphere during the forthcoming general election, DC and District Election Officer, Longleng, Dharam Raj has issued an order with reference to Article 326 of the constitution of India.

DC informed that any village or ward or community or group of people or media house found violating or defying the provisions in connection with the upcoming general election, appropriate legal action will be initiated against the violator(s) in the interest of free, fair, transparent election and administering social order.

AKM conference; adopts 2-point resolution

Correspondent MOKOKCHUNG, JAN 20: The three-day 69th Ao Students’ Conference (Ao Kaketshir Mungdang) general conference came to an end on Friday at Akhoya village where AKM adopted two major resolutions.

Firstly, AKM decided to set up an UPSC Aspirant Trust Fund for which Akhoya Students’ Union donated Rs. 5 lakh. It was also resolved to conduct conclaves, in consonance with the theme of the conference “Education in Praxis.”

The conclaves will be held focusing on entrepreneurship, career guidance, research developmen t &

by 2029, the year AKM will be celebrating 100 years of existence. A new team of office bearers for the tenure 2023-2026 were nominated with Lanutoshi Aier as president (Lirmen), Onenpong as vice president (Kinunger), Satemmongba as general secretary (Akhoya) along with six executive members. AKM new office bearers at the oath taking ceremony.

innovation, financing and job mela. Former president AKM and deputy director (retired) department of School Education, T Molung Aier graced as valedictory guest. In his address, Aier challenged the students to prove the concept of the clean election without fall-

ing into corruption and participating in the upcoming election in the true sense of choosing good leadership. He also encouraged the students to practically follow “Education in praxis” by becoming self-reliant and challenged them to become a self-reliance community

Dearest Apo, Memories of you, your smiles & voice still afresh in our hearts & lingers on.

Every day has been an echo of you in our moments.

Ten years seems like an eternity, yet feels like yesterday when memories of you cross our thoughts.

Though it's impossible to tell you in person how much you mean to us, we are taking a pause today, that particular day ten years ago when you left us, to once again remind ourselves of the place you left void & still remains empty.

We are blessed & privileged to have had you as our Father. Never forgotten, a hero to us; a real superhero always. Keep watching over us until we meet...

With Love, Loving Children, In-laws, Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren

Aphuyemi Kuqhakulu Dimapur

BJP workers of Tsungiki village held a coordination meeting-cum-picnic at Tsungiki Doyang and discussed on the assembly election 2023 on January 19.

(L-R) DC Mokokchung Shashank Pratap Singh addressing the meeting. A meeting in progress in Dimapur. (DIPR)

DoNER officials review ‘SAMBHAV mission’

DIMAPUR: Officials from Ministry of DoNER visited Sawa village in Mon district and Yongam village in Longleng district to generate awareness on the “SAMBHAV mission mode” on January 18, 2023.

A report from DPRO Longleng, stated that the officials were Suresh Kumar S, Statistical Advisor (Joint Secretary Level), Chief Nodal Officer for Nagaland, Ministry of DoNER; Nehjamang Simte, Deputy Secretary, DoNER and Dharmendra Kumar, Section Officer, DoNER.

During the visit the officials held an interactive meetings with the respective village councils and various stakeholders at Council Halls of the re -

It may be noted that “SAMBHAV Mission Mode” programme focuses on the development of backward blocks/villages across the Northeast by converging and monitoring key indicators such as access to health, education, drinking water, electricity, and financial inclusion.

The team also instructed the village officials to draw attention to the need for local development and the flaws in the various projects.

SDO Civil, Aboi, Arhomo Yanthan, EAC Longleng, Dr Samuel Akho Konyak, Dobashis of Mon and Longleng, several other government officials and village leaders and citizens participated in the programmes held at the two villages.

Mass social works in Peren, Noklak

DIMAPUR: In view of the ensuing Republic Day celebration on January 26, DC Peren, Vineet Kumar informed that a mass social work will be conducted in Peren on January 24. In this connection, all heads of offices under the Peren district have been directed to ensure strict compliance and attendance of all staff, and all have been directed to assemble at assigned locations at 11 am positively. A mass social work will be conducted on January 21 from 7 am onwards at Noklak. In this regard, DC Noklak, K. Mhathung Tsanglao has requested all government departments and ward/ sector councils to encourage staff and residents to participate in social work positively.

spective villages. At the interaction, the central team enquired how the community was utilizing and implementing the different Central and State

Government Schemes into practice at the grassroots level.

DoNER officials and officials of district administrations of Mon and Longleng along with village leaders and GBs of Sowa village.

M’laya polls: Ex-deputy CM Bindo M Lanong to contest as independent

SHILLONG, JAN 20: Veteran leader and founding member of the regional party United Democratic Party (UDP) in pollbound Meghalaya, Bindo Mathew Lanong on Friday announced his decision not to leave the party, but he would continue to revolt against the party leadership by contesting the election from Nongkrem Assembly constituency.

Speaking to media persons in Shillong, Lanong, the former Speaker, informed that he would not take the drum, which is the symbol of the UDP.

“After the election, I will re-organise the party because I am the founding member of the UDP, and I belong to this party which I consider as my baby,” Lanong said.

Lanong was denied UDP ticket to contest from Nongkrem constituency, and UDP President Metbah Lyngdoh has favoured former Independent MLA, LamborMalngiang, who was never a member of the party.

“I have decided to be with the party, though I

was rejected by two or three people of the party. I will not break the party now, and I contest this election on an independent symbol, but after the election, I will re-organise the party with my colleagues,” the veteran politician said.

Lanong further warned that the political career of

two-three leaders of the UDP, who are opposing his candidature, is finished as “they have no chance of winning the elections”.

“(This) is nothing but a leadership issue. They are my juniors. All of them are my juniors. When UDP was formed in 1997, they were not there. They were not even in politics. I brought JeminoMawthoh in 2013 and he won from Nongthymmai. Metbah Lyngdoh joined the UDP in 2008.

Where were they when UDP was formed in 1997?

Paul Lyngdoh came in 2009.

I was there when he joined the UDP. Therefore, as I told you, two-three leaders are already finished,” he said.

UDP General Secretary Dr. Jemino Mawthoh had said that the decision to field Malngiang was a collective one by the party considering the winnability.

Gunfight between dacoits, police in Assam

GOALPARA (ASSAM), JAN 20 (PTI): A gunfight took place between police and dacoits in Assam’s Goalpara district, following which two of them were arrested, a senior officer said on Friday.

With these fresh arrests, a total of six of the 10 members of the gang, involved in several dacoities in Assam and Meghalaya, were apprehended, he said, adding manhunt for the rest is underway.

Acting on a tip-off about the movement of members of the gang, naka checking was intensified in various parts of the district on Thursday night.

Two dacoits were arrested, while another four managed to escape under the cover of darkness, he said.

The 10-member gang was involved in at least six dacoities in Assam and Meghalaya in recent times.

MPCC demands CBI probe in drug case involving police personnel

Correspondent

IMPHAL, JAN 20: Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) on Friday demanded a CBI probe into the recent seizure of a huge consignment of contraband drugs transported by five state police personnel.

The demand was raised during a sit-in-protest staged in front of the Imphal Congress Bhavan today. On January 16, five police commando personnel, an elite force of Manipur police to counter insurgency, were arrested following recovery of a large quantity of narcotic drugs - 1.336 kg of heroin (No. 4) powder and 9.151 kg of WY tablets – from the vehicle they were com-

ing towards Imphal from Moreh, Manipur’s town at Indo-Myanmar border.

“Mr chief minister, why don’t you refer Pallel drug case to CBI ‘’, Mr chief minister, do not divert Pallel drugs case, send it to CBI immediately,” “Home minister should be replaced,” etc.

read the placards displayed during the protest. Talking to reporters, vice-chairman Md Rabi Khan of MPCC Legal Department said that the recent seizure of a huge consignment of drugs transported by five police personnel was a big challenge to the morality of the state police

department. He said that not only the Congress but people also suspected that the five police personnel were only the transporters as it would not be possible for them funding in the multi-crore drug business. “There is a kingpin or a drug lord who funded the business. To find the owner of the multi-crore drugs, the state government should hand over the case to CBI,” he demanded. If the government is sincere enough to end the drug trade menace under its war on drugs campaign, the case must be handed over to an independent investigative agency, most preferably the CBI, he demanded. In any circumstance, the state government should

not delay in handing over the case to CBI after taking a cabinet decision, he added.

MPCC general secretary P Sharatchandra alleged that till date maximum of the drug haul cases were being kept without completing investigation. As such, kingpins of the drugs haul cases remained unknown.

With no arrest of the kingpins, there was no record of awarding any benefitting punishment to kingpins of the multi-drug haul cases rather than punishing the peddlers, he said. He demanded that like taking up stringent action against pity matter cases, the incumbent state government should at any way let the drug kingpins walk escort free.

AFFIDAVIT/SELF DECLARATION

Regd. No. 11/2023 Date 03/01/2023

(FOR CHANGE OF NAME OF WIDOW OF DECEASED SOLDIERS AND CHANGE OF NAME OF WIVES OF VETERIANS AND SERVING SOLDIERS)

1. I, ANATOLI ROCHILL is legally/wedded to spouse of No. 14704015H

Ex-minister’s son arrested, bailed in accident that killed one

Correspondent SHILLONG, JAN 20: Ruchir Marak, the son of former Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister and Congress candidate for the forthcoming assembly elections was arrested by Meghalaya police for his alleged involvement in an accident in which his vehicle dashed a scooter, killing the rider on Tuesday night, a police official said on Friday.

Police said the 28-year-

old Marak was reportedly driving at high speed when his white Hyndai i20 car dashed against Sengsrang B Marak who was riding a scooty near Williamnagar Super Market in East Garo Hills district.

The victim was rushed to the nearby civil hospital but succumbed to his injuries. “After hitting him the accused immediately fled from the area to evade arrest but the police had launched a manhunt to

trace the erring driver,” police said, adding that the accused appeared at Williamnagar police station and surrendered himself before the police on Wednesday. “We have compounded the vehicle and arrested Marak, but he was later released on relased on bail,” the police official said. Meanwhile, a suo moto case have been registered vide Williamnagar PS case u/s 279/ 337/ 427/ 304A IPC against Marak.

Six types of Election observers appointed for 3 North East states

GUWAHATI, JAN 20 (AGENCIES): The Election Commission has appointed six types of observers in three election-bound states - Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland - to monitor the poll process and related aspects closely.

Election officials said on Friday that to conduct the polls “freely, fairly, fearlessly and with inducement”, six types of observers have been appointed from among the in-service and retired IAS, IPS, IRS and central government officials.

The observers include general observers, police

observers, expenditure observers, micro observers in each polling station, special observers for special circumstances and counting observers.

The Election Commission on Friday appointed three special observers and asked them to go to Tripura immediately to take stock of the situation, ensure proper deployment of the Central Armed Police Force, intensify enforcement measures and report to the commission.

The three special observers are Yogendra Tripathy, retired IAS officer of Karnataka cadre; Vivek

Johri, former Director General of Police of Madhya Pradesh, and B Murali Kumar, IRS officer, who was the special observer in the Gujarat assembly election last year and the West Bengal election in 2021. The Election Commission will formally issue a notification on Saturday for the February 16 polling in Tripura and the filling of nomination papers would start immediately.

The last date of nomination in Tripura is January 30. The papers will be checked the next day. The last date for withdrawing nominations is February 2.

Correspondent.

IMPHAL, JAN 20: Villagers on Manipur side of the Indo-Myanmar border have dismantled border fencing after their paddy fields were left beyond the fencing on Myanmar side. An official report said that villagers of Kwatha Khunou, a village near Indo-Myanmar border pillar (BP) 81 have rooted out the border fencing pillars alleging that the BRTF personnel on construction works have left out paddy fields about 200m owned by them on the Myanmar side on Thursday.

Arunachal

ITANAGAR, JAN 20 (AGENCIES): Arunachal Pradesh Governor Brig (Retd) Dr B D Mishra on Thursday launched the latest English and Hindi editions of ‘Exam Warriors book written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at Raj Bhavan here, reports the Sentinel. The governor also presented copies of the books to the students on the occasion.

Mishra said that competition is increasing in life which is causing tension in everyone’s life. This book is written especially for young students to help them in dealing with the stress of examinations.

He urged the students and parents to read the book to be able to deal with the tension. The governor said that the book ‘Exam Warriors’, in which the Prime Minister has outlined a refreshing approach to exams urging everyone to celebrate the exam like a festival with enthusiasm and gaiety, reflects his box approach, his benevolent nature and his perceptive mind for the wellbeing of common citizens.

AFFIDAVIT

Regd. No. 34/2023 Date 17/1/2023 I, Shri Ashok Singh, S/o Late Badri Singh do hereby solemnly affirm and declare an oath that my and my father’s present official name as per HSLC certificate is Shri Ashok Kumar and Shri Badriram respectively and I hereby change my name from Shri Ashok Kumar to Ashok Singh and my father’s name from Shri Badriram to Shri Late Badri Singh. DEPONENT K-164/23

Rank HAV, Name V JAMES AYEMI, presently residing at Vill.Roni Old, P.O. Bhandari, Tehsil.- Wokha, Dist.- Wokha, PIN-797111, do hereby solemnly affirm on oath as follows:-

(a) That I have changed my name from ANATOLI AYEMI to ANATOLI ROCHILL due to (having my name as ANATOLI ROCHILL in other documents). That my date of birth is Twenty Two February, Nineteen Ninety One (in words).

(b) That both Name ANATOLI AYEMI and ANATOLI ROCHILL pertains to one and the same person.

(c) That I shall at all times hereafter in all records, deeds and writing and in all proceedings, dealings with transactions, private as well as under all occasions what so ever be known as only ANATOLI ROCHILL.

Date : 03/01/2023 Place : Dimapur, Nagaland

Signature of Deponent VERIFICATION

I the Deponent above named do hereby solemnly declare and verify that the contents of the above Affidavit are true to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing has been concealed or suppressed there from.

Signature of Deponent NOTARY PUBLIC dp-308/23

IN THE COURT OF DEPUTY COMMISSIONER DIMAPUR : NAGALAND

NOTICE Dated, Dimapur, the 20th Jan. 2023 NO.DCD/REV-20/2021-D/11034/ Notice is hereby given that Shri. Bhupen Chandra Rava a resident of Middle Colony, Puranabazar, Dimapur that he has burnt his original Jamabandi in fire incident bearing Patta No. 435, Dag No. 310/2090 under Mouza No. 3 measuring an area 00B-01K-19Ls located at Puranabazar.

Seen FIR Lodged Vide Ref. NFS/fis/DMR-2/2018-19/255GD No. 337 dated 18/09/2018 in the Officer-in-Change, Fire Station, Dimapur on the said plot of land.

The undersigned hereby invites claims/ objections concerning to the said land and if any should be submitted to this court in written within 30 (Thirty) days from the date of issue of this Notice for issue of Duplicate Patta.

Sd/- SACHIN JAISWAL, IAS Deputy Commissioner Dimapur : Nagaland dp-310/23

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

PUBLIC NOTICE Niuland, dated the 22nd Dec' 2022 NO. DCN/DEV-22/VRE/2022/749

upon receipt of an application for the recognition of Kiyekhu Village under Niuland District and on the completion of all formalities for the recognition of the concerned village, Notice as per Home Department Office Memorandum NO.GAB-1/COM/108/2005, dated Kohima, the 1st Oct' 2005 is hereby given to all the general public of the area for the claims and objection if any, within 30 (thirty) days from the date of publication of this notice.

No complaint/objection will be entertained after the stipulated time under any circumstances.

The proposed boundaries of the village are as under: 1. North : Homeland Village 2. South : Hevikhe Village 3. East : Kiyezu 'A' Village 4. West : Vikuho Village

S. JAMIR) NCS Deputy Commissioner Niuland : Nagaland

OFFICE OF THE SOLONUOMIA CHIENUO KROTHO T.KHEL, KOHIMA VILLAGE INFORMATION

The Solonuomia Chienuo Krotho is set to celebrate its triennial Day on Sunday Jan.22nd 2023 at Keluongutuo Solo’s Residence, Mission Compound T.Khel,Kohima Village at 12:30 P.M. Therefore all our Solonuomia Chienuo members are cordially requested to attend.

K-162/23

Correspondent

Bindo Mathew Lanong

Leaders, members of MPCC staging protest demanding handing over of drug case to CBI on Friday. (NP)

Villagers dismantle fencing pillars at Manipur sector of Indo-Myanmar border

governor launch PM Modi’s book

The accident vehicle.

President Solonuomia Chienuo Krotho

Bihar caste survey

NEW DELHI, JAN 20 (PTI): The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a batch of pleas challenging the Bihar government’s decision to conduct a caste survey in the state. A bench of justices BR Gavai and Vikram Nath said there is no merit in the petitions and dismissed them with liberty to the petitioners to approach the high court concerned.

CoBRA jawan injured in J’khand IED blast

CHAIBASA, JAN 20 (PTI): A jawan of the CoBRA battalion on Friday suffered serious injuries in an IED blast, suspected to have been triggered by Maoists, in a forest in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district, a senior police officer said. The injured jawan was immediately airlifted to a hospital in Ranchi, he said. It was the third such IED explosion in the forest in the past 15 days.

Hansraj students protest non-veg ban

NEW DELHI, JAN 20 (PTI): At least 40 students staging a demonstration outside DU’s Hansraj College against a “ban” on non-vegetarian food were allegedly detained by police on Friday, a students’ organisation representative said. Scores of protesters had gathered outside the college to protest against the decision but the students claimed that the college refused them entry and locked its gates.

Man dragged on car bonnet in B’luru

BENGALURU, JAN 20 (PTI): A man was dragged on the bonnet of a car for a kilometre in a road rage incident in the city on Friday, police said. CCTV footage of the incident has gone viral on social media showing one Darshan struggling to stay put on the car, allegedly driven by a woman identified as Priyanka. According to police, a road accident between Darshan’s car and Priyanka’s vehicle took place on the Jnanabharathi Main Road in the morning.

ISRO spy case

KOCHI, JAN 20 (PTI): Kerala High Court on Friday granted anticipatory bail to four people, including a former Director General of Police (DGP), in connection with the 1994 ISRO espionage case. The Supreme Court on December 2 last year quashed the Kerala High Court order granting the anticipatory bail to the accused and remanded the matter back to the High Court and directed it to decide the issue within four weeks.

LONDON, JAN 20 (PTI): BBC on Friday defended its controversial series on Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “rigorously researched” documentary that sought to highlight important issues, a day after the Indian government condemned the programme as a “propaganda piece” lacking objectivity.

“The documentary was rigorously researched according to the highest editorial standards,” a BBC spokesperson said in a statement. The statement came a day after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak came out in defence of Prime Minister Modi after the BBC documentary claimed that the British government was aware of the Indian leader having an alleged role in the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Sunak said he does not agree with the characterisation of Prime Minister Modi by Pakistani-origin Imran Hussain, an Opposition Labour Party MP, when he asked if the British premier agreed with claims in the BBC programme that some UK Foreign Office diplomats believed that “Modi

was directly responsible”.

“The UK government’s position on that is clear and long-standing, and it has not changed,” Sunak responded.

“Of course, we do not tolerate persecution anywhere, but I am not sure that I agree at all with the characterisation that the hon. gentleman has put forward,” the British prime minister said.

While making the series, the taxpayer-funded licence fee-backed British Broadcasting Corporation, said it has approached a range of voices.

“A wide range of voices, witnesses and experts were approached, and we have featured a range of

opinions – this includes responses from people in the BJP. We offered the Indian Government a right to reply to the matters raised in the series – it declined to respond,” the spokesperson said. The BBC said it was committed to highlighting important issues from around the world and the documentary series examines the “tensions between India’s Hindu majority and Muslim minority and explores the politics of India’s PM Narendra Modi in relation to those tensions”.

This has been the source of considerable reporting and interest both in India and across the world in recent years,” the spokesperson noted. The Indian

Joshimath crisis: Demolition work halted due to heavy snowfall

Chamoli DM Himanshu Khurana said that the labourers are unable to work, which is why the demolition work has been stopped. It will be resumed when the weather improves.

The Mandal-Chopta highway and the Ghat-Ramani motorway have been closed due to snowfall.

government has condemned the BBC Panorama programme, which has not been screened in India, as a propaganda piece with a questionable agenda behind it.

“We think that this is a propaganda piece, designed to push a particular discredited narrative. The bias, lack of objectivity and continuing colonial mindset is blatantly visible,” MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi told reporters during a press briefing in New Delhi on Thursday when asked about the controversial series.

Meanwhile, several members of the Indian diaspora in the UK have sent complaints to the BBC over the characterisation of the Indian leader in the series.

“@BBCNews You have caused a great deal of hurt to over a billion Indians. It insults a democratically elected Prime Minister, Indian Police and the Indian judiciary. We condemn the riots and loss of life and also condemn your biased reporting,” tweeted Lord Rami Ranger, an Indianorigin peer in the House of Lords.

Sun, moon does its own worky: Kejriwal to LG

NEW DELHI, JAN 20 (PTI): The Delhi Police have deployed additional pickets, intensified anti-terror measures and enhanced patrolling ahead of Republic Day celebrations in the national capital, officials said on Friday.

All Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACsP) and Station House Officers (SHOs) have been holding meetings with members of the Residents Welfare Association and Market Welfare Associations and briefing them about security measures in place for Republic Day, they said.

The police have also urged people to stay vigilant and inform them about anything suspicious.

The Delhi Police has also been creating awareness on the social media, asking people to alert or inform the police about any suspicious person, activity or article, they said.

Tenant and servant verifications are being done, police said, adding that surprise checks are also being conducted at hotels, guest houses and ‘dharamshalas’ to ensure no suspicious or anti-social elements have

occupied the space illegally, police said.

Mock drills have also been conducted by various districts to check their preparedness for anti-terror measures ahead of Republic Day, a senior police officer said.

Special Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Dependra Pathak said, “Our security checks and antiterror measures are robust and we would not allow any mischief monger or terror criminal to function or get successful.

“We are also alerting the market and resident wel-

fare associations, organising public meetings, other initiatives to counter anonymity and create a vibrant web of human relationship focusing on security in place.”

According to officials, anti-terror measures have been intensified in coordination with other security agencies since Delhi has always been a target for terrorists or anti-social elements. This year officers are on high alert. Extra pickets have also been deployed on bordering areas to ensure no mischievous elements gain entry into the national capital, officials said.

Che Guevara’s daughter addresses Leftist students in Kolkata

JOSHIMATH, JAN 20

(IANS): The demolition of the structures declared unsafe after being affected by land subsidence in Joshimath has come to a halt due to heavy snowfall, which has added to the woes of the residents.

Their belongings, lying outside Hotel Mount View and Malari Inn, are covered in snow as they could not

be shifted due to the adverse weather.

The national highway near the hotels has been opened after the demolition drive was halted.

More than a dozen villages in Chamoli district are covered with snow. The weather in the city is freezing due to rain and snowfall in the area, since Thursday evening.

According to information received from the District Disaster Control Room on Friday, several areas including Badrinath Dham, Hemkund Sahib, Auli, Gorson Bugyal, Lal Mati and villages like Sutol, Kanol, Dumak, Kalgoth are experiencing snowfall.

About two feet of fresh snow has accumulated in Badrinath Dham and up to three feet in Hemkund Sahib. The Joshimath and Ghingharan region experienced the year’s first snowfall.

NEW DELHI, JAN 20 (PTI): Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday urged Lt Governor VK Saxena to focus on improving Delhi’s law and order to prevent another Kanjhawla-like incident and allow his government to do its work, citing how sun and moon function in their own space to ensure that the universe runs smoothly.

Kejriwal made the remark in reply to a letter by Saxena who accused him of “political posturing” during his march to Raj Niwas on January 16 along with his deputy Manish Sisodia and AAP MLAs.

The LG had also invited the Delhi CM and his deputy for a meeting on January 16 but Kejriwal had insisted that he would meet Saxena along with all his MLAs.

Govt issues guidelines for social media influencers

FineuptoRs50L,6-yr

banonrepeatoffence

NEW DELHI, JAN 20

(IANS): Social media influencers and celebrities will face a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh, which can go up to Rs 50 lakh on repeat offence and even lead to a ban of up to six years, on violation of guidelines for them, which were released by the consumer affairs ministry on Friday.

Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh told mediapersons, while

releasing the guidelines, that the whole issue is centred around consumers’ right.

“It is the responsibility of the endorser, celebrities and influencers or other adv ertisers to truthfully disclose whatever information the consumer must know before making any decision for purchase,” the guidelines said.

Singh further said social media influencers should disclose the nature of their endorsements.

“Individuals or groups who have access to an audience and the power to affect

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND OFFICE OF THE LABOUR COMMISSIONER

CIRCULAR

This is to inform to all the interested candidates that, the training course on cutting & tailoring, knitting and embroidery for the year 2023 is scheduled to commence from April, 2023 at the respective Labour Welfare Centres (LWC); (i) LWC Dimapur (ii) LWCTuli, Mokokchung (iii) LWC Wazeho Mini Cement Plant, Phek and (iv) LWC Doyang Hydro Electric Project (DHEP) Doyang. The application forms for the 8 (eight) months training course will be issued from 1st February 2023 at the respective Labour Welfare Centre’s during office hours. The last date for submission of the application forms will be on or before 15th February, 2023. As seats are limited applicants will be selected on first cum first basis. The Department will provide all the training materials, kits, free of cost to each trainee throughout the training period.

Sd/- (Er. S. L. WATI AIER) Labour Commissioner Nagaland, Kohima.

their purchasing decisions about a product, brand or service because of the influencer’s authority, knowledge, position or relationship with their audience,” the guidelines said.

Influencers are defined as creators who advertise products with a strong influence on the decisions or opinions of their audience.

Virtual influencers, which are defined as fictional computer-generated people with realistic features of humans, are also required to disclose their endorsements, the guidelines said

further.

The department noted that, “When there is a material connection between an advertiser and celebrity/ influencer that may affect the weight or credibility of the representation made by the celebrity/influencer.”

These material connections include monetary or other forms of compensation, free products, contests and sweepstakes entries, trips or hotel stays, media barters, coverage and awards, or any personal, family or employment relationship, the rules note.

KOLKATA, JAN 20 (IANS): At a time when the CPI-M, reduced to a zero in terms of assembly presence after the 2021 West Bengal polls, is struggling hard to regain its mass base in the state, a message from Dr Aleida Guevera, daughter of legendary Argentine Marxist revolutionary Ernesto Che Guevara, in Kolkata on Friday came as a spirited inspiration for the student leaders of the party.

Attending a felicitation programme conducted by Jadavpur University’s arts faculty student’s union, which is controlled by CPIM’s student wing Student’s Federation of India (SFI), Aleida Guevera, a top physician and human rights activist, advised the students to keep the flag of struggle for the proletariat interest high.

She was accompanied by her daughter and economist Estefania Guevara.

Aleida Guevera spoke in Spanish which was instantly translated by one of the SFI activists in Bengali.

“As my father believed

that one should not concede defeat in the struggle in life.

You will have to fight and move towards the path of victory. So, comrades move ahead. Study more and fight more. Be a good professional in your respective area. Never retreat. Always be with people even whatever height you achieve.

Always be in touch with the mass. You have to be united in your proletariat struggle.

That was a lesson from Commadante Che Guevara,” she said after the colour felicitation programme

with the “Hasta La Victoria Siempre” tune playing in the background.

Her speech received accolades from the students present on the occasion who shouted revolutionary slogans like ‘Inquilab Zindabad’ and ‘El Pueblo Unido Jamas Sera Vencido (The people united shall always be victorious)’.

On Thursday, she attended a programme at Chennai organised jointly by CPI-M and National Committee for Solidarity with Cuba.

No.NU/ACAD-7/2021- 4914 Date: 20/01/2023

ADMISSION NOTICE

Online Applications are invited for admission to PhD Programme offered by Nagaland University for the Winter Academic Session 2022-23 in the School of Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities & Education, Management Studies, School of Agricultural Sciences & Rural Development and School of Engineering & Technology.

Note:

1. Last date for submission of Online Application Form is 4th February 2023.

2. Applicants are advised to refer Nagaland University website www.nagalanduniversity.ac.in and apply accordingly through ‘Admission’ link

3. The application form fee of Rs. 200/- should be paid online through SBI collect from the website https://onlinesbi.com

person shall not be qualified for appointment as a Member, unless he is of not less than forty years of age and possesses :

(a) A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university and is a person of ability, integrity and standing, and has special knowledge and professional experience of not less than twenty years in consumer affairs, law, public affairs, administration, economics, commerce, industry, finance, management, engineering, technology, public health or medicine.

(2) The Member of the State Commission shall hold office for a term of four years or up to the age of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier.

C. Salaries, allowances and other terms and conditions of service of Members of State Commission & District Commission. - The State Government may, by notification, make rules to provide for salaries and allowances and other terms and conditions of service of the Members of the State Commission & District Commission.

 Interested persons may submit their applications with all relevant documents to the Office of the Addl. Controller & HoD, Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection Department, Near Agri Office, AG Colony, Kohima on or before the 20th February’ 2023.

Delhi Police band marches past during rehearsals for the Republic Day Parade 2023, at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. (PTI)

Snow-capped mountain peaks after fresh snowfall, in Joshimath, Friday. (PTI)

Dr Aleida Guevera being felicitated during an event at Jadavpur University in Kolkata on Friday. (IANS)

A different kind of wrestling

Bringing transformation to Nagaland through ‘Clean Election’ to re-built our society

Considering the present scenario of election malpractices especially during the State General Legislative Assembly Election it is a spiritual warfare. We have seen in the past that money had been place at the top and God at the bottom. Candidates have used money to woe voters while on the other hand, voters demanded money for their vote. Proxy voting was rampant.

However, proxy is stealing of another’s identity and that amounts to impersonation. Many individuals choose to select and vote for the candidate who spends more money during election. Nagaland is a Christian state where almost all the politicians, contesting candidates and voters are Christian.

As Nagaland is going for polling on 27th Feb, 2023 for the State General Legislation Assembly Election, ‘this is the right time to root out corrupts practices of Election’. Yes it is not going to be an easy task and we need a strong hand to cure the malaise of election malpractices. That is the reason

I talk about “Transformation” where transformation is not about attaining a spiritual standard but it is about attaining and recognizing the life of God within us and how to respond to the work of God’s spirit within us as the scripture portion taken from the Book of Romans 12: 1-2 clearly says that “So then, my brother, because

of God’s great mercy to us I appeal to you : offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to Him. This is the true worship that you should offer. Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind.

Then you will be able to know the will of God –what is good and pleasing to him and is perfect”. So a transformed life is marked by willing sacrifice and utterly surrender to God’s plan allowing personal desires to fall away. There is hope as “No one is above the law and no one is above God”. Let me highlight the four major crisis periods in American history.

The First was the Revolutionary war where initially they did not even know whether they could be born as a nation or not. The Second crisis came when a constitutional convention was called in Philadelphia to ratify a constitution for the new country that was being born. The Third crisis came during the Civil War. Men of both sides were killing each other, brothers against brothers and it seems the country would be torn apart. However, there are some men and women who believed in God on both sides. A man came to Abraham Lincoln one day and said, ‘Mr. Lincoln, don’t you believe that God is with us?

Mr. Lincoln said, “I’m not interested as whether God

is with us; I’m interested as to whether we are on God’s side”.

President Lincoln called the nation to a day of prayer, and in his call of prayer he recommended individual repentance. He called for a renewed faith in God. He said “we are a nation of sinful people and God has brought us to this point; let us pray to God”.

The Fourth great crisis according to a man of God and the great evangelist Billy Graham was moral deterioration. Honesty and truthfulness have been thrown out of the window. The nation is on a mad pursuit of amusements, pleasure and immorality.

‘What about our naga society? We also need a moral revival. We need a spiritual revival that will put a new moral fiber into our society, or we will have collapsed internally before any enemies get here. One of the greatest challenges may be the forth coming State General Legislative Assembly Election where we have seen the past malpractices of elections.

To me ‘Clean Election’ is the call of all the people to commit themselves to consciously elect their leaders with integrity without being manipulated through corruption or other unhealthy means. Clean election is the need of the hour to re-built our beloved Nagaland. It is high time we the citizens of the state come to the foot of the cross. God does not look upon the outward appearance. God looks upon the

heart. God sees our pride. God is looking for real and genuine repentance to whom much is given, much is required. Much is given to us, and much shall be required for our society.

The Bible says that we are to humble ourselves. No man or woman can come to the kingdom of God proudly. We must come in humility. Let me quote a scripture portion prayerfully so as to speak to every citizen/voter taken from the Book of 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land”.

In the past we have hear painful stories among the families, clans and villages and the fabric of friendship and love is completely destroyed just because of the wrong practices of elections.

The climate of unity and love among the church members is being eroded by the negative forces of election. We must not make election as a battle ground rather cast your vote fairly and justly. Corrupt election result in poor government, increasing poverty, crime and social instability which can lead to violence and war. The sole purpose of clean election is to tell the truth, to fight for the truth, to stand for the truth and to bring positive change in our society. Election is

the right means of choosing the right leaders to run the state of affairs as a welfare state.A clarion call to all citizens/voters for “Clean Election” is simply for a better society and a brighter future for the generations and for which the illegal means and corrupt practices has to be stopped in the process of the conduct of any elections especially the forth coming State General Assembly Election in Nagaland which is prepared to conduct polling on 27th Feb, 2023.

We are to admit the fact that the root cause of corruption is corrupt election where the contesting candidates are make to spent huge money and the illegal/unfair means of practices such as buying or selling votes, threatening, rich people sponsor candidate financially so as to make money in future if voted to power, huge supply of liquor, booth capturing, proxy voting, government employees involves in campaign with government vehicles, community not allowing the citizens/voters to vote freely/fairly, certain political party especially the ruling encourage govt. employees to get involve in election campaign with commitment of promotion or placing workplace of their own choice, etc.

Let us all practice “One man one Vote”. The conduct of fair election would promote the society and it is solely depending on us as every eligible

Civil service for North-East students

DailyDevotion

Are You Fresh for Everything?

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” —John 3:3

Sometimes we are fresh and eager to attend a prayer meeting, but do we feel that same freshness for such mundane tasks as polishing shoes?

Being born again by the Spirit is an unmistakable work of God, as mysterious as the wind, and as surprising as God Himself. We don’t know where it begins— it is hidden away in the depths of our soul. Being born again from above is an enduring, perpetual, and eternal beginning. It provides a freshness all the time in thinking, talking, and living— a continual surprise of the life of God. Staleness is an indication that something in our lives is out of step with God. We say to ourselves, “I have to do this thing or it will never get done.” That is the first sign of staleness. Do we feel fresh this very moment or are we stale, frantically searching our minds for something to do? Freshness is not the result of obedience; it comes from the Holy Spirit. Obedience keeps us “in the light as He is in the light…” (1 John 1:7).

Jealously guard your relationship with God. Jesus prayed “that they may be one just as We are one” — with nothing in between (John 17:22). Keep your whole life continually open to Jesus Christ. Don’t pretend to be open with Him. Are you drawing your life from any source other than God Himself? If you are depending on something else as your source of freshness and strength, you will not realize when His power is gone.

Being born of the Spirit means much more than we usually think. It gives us new vision and keeps us absolutely fresh for everything through the neverending supply of the life of God.

It was unfortunate that the sports ministry, government of India, has not responded in time, even three days after Indian wrestling champions held a protest at Jantar Mantar New Delhi, demanding that the president of the wrestling federation of India(WFI) Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh resign and probe ordered against him on several cases of sexual harassment and exploitation. Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, 66, is a six-time MP of the BJP who was elected unopposed president of WFI for a third consecutive term in February 2019.Each term is for a period of three full years. The champion wrestlers who have brought laurels are now being made to sit in for three days while awaiting the response of the government for justice. The allegations made by Vinesh Phogat, India’s first Indian woman wrestler to win gold in both Commonwealth and Asian Games and the only Indian woman wrestler to win multiple medals at the World Wrestling Championships, makes the case against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh most credible. She has alleged that at least ten woman wrestlers confessed to her that they were sexually exploited by WFI president Brij Bhushan Singh and some would be willing to come out openly about being sexually exploited by Sharan. Vinesh also claimed that she along with Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia had even met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to flag their issues about three months back. However the assurance to look into the matter has not resulted in any action. Due to the ongoing protest, the other women athletes have warned they would not compete in international tournaments unless Singh was removed from the post. In a sense, the case is also not only about sexual harassment by a law maker -cum- head of the country’s wrestling federation , but also the fact that a law maker with a record of criminal charges continues to be elected and having total sway over the federation having been reelected three times consecutively. According to ace wrestlers - including Olympic medallists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik - have branded him a ‘predator’ and accused him of ‘sexual assault’ and aiding sexual harassment of female wrestlers. Singh is not new to controversy. He was arrested in themid-1990s under Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) for allegedly helping associates of gangster Dawood Ibrahim and spent several months in Tihar jail. According to Singh’s election affidavit, he has four pending cases against him. The case also reveals that the electoral system as well as the parliamentary rules of conduct are heavily loaded against truth and justice. The other is about sports federations in India which appear to believe that they cannot function professionally without involvement of politicians. The fact that the powerful MP from UP, in this case Brij Bhushan Saran Singh, had managed to be re-elected three times consecutively, itself a dubious record for a totally different kind of wrestling , which he is now being accused of being a predator. Any government probe at this point will not suffice unless the entire federation is suspended and criminal investigation launched against the alleged accused in securing justice for sporting heroes who, instead of being shown respect are harassed, humiliated and hounded. Quotes

~ Mahatma Gandhi

Talents need platforms to perform. They can better showcase their inherent skills and efficiency in varied constructive works. The entire Northeastern region of India is a nice platform to work for development activities by local talents. Since New Delhi is currently giving the topmost priority in socio-economic development of NE region, the young Northeasterners can take the full advantage of serving the region as administrators. Notwithstanding, they have to work hard in systematic studies for competing both UPSC and State PSC exams.

Geographically, NER is regarded as the cradle of many castes, communities, cultural ethos and faiths. Tucked away in a ‘strategic region’, linked with the national mainstream by a narrow corridor called the “chicken’s neck” via Siliguri in Bengal, those who once visited the region can never forget this paradise on the Earth.

That is, it is considered as the greatest region among all the regions of our nation in terms of hospitality rendered to its visitors, tourists, et al. Both domestic and international tourists visit Sikkim, ‘the oasis of peace in India today’. One can, thus, find a unique combination of hospitality and service mentality amongst the local people in NE India.

The region is gifted with a good number of natural resources. It possesses the world’s largest reserves of Sillimanite (a mineral used as refractory) in Sonapahar of East Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya. Of late, the record of rainfall at Mawsynram has exceeded that of Cherrapunjee. World’s biggest river island, Majuli, is located in Assam. The world’s oldest functioning oil refinery is Digboi refinery (Assam). Its preliminary survey was done by Oldham, the then superintendent, Geological Survey of India, in 1901. Oldham came to discover coal, but, fortunately

found mineral oil here. Updating all matters on the region, a comprehensive attempt has been initiated by me to project the book in a systematic way.

Exam Basics: The civil services examination is conducted annually by the UPSC in three stages - preliminary, main and interview - to select officers of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS) among others.

That is, the Civil Service Examination (CSE) is the mother of all written examinations in India. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts competitive exams every year for recruiting people into central civil services. It is common for all India services like IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS and other Group A and Group B Central Services.

At the state level also, the State Public Service Commissions conducts civil service examinations for recruiting DC, ADC, Deputy District Collectors, Labour Officers, BDO, CEOs of Zillah Parishads, Tahisildhars, Deputy Registrars of Cooperatives, Sales Tax Officers, etc.

Overall, the IAS plays a major role in administering the country and runs the governance of the country from the small administrative unit called district to the Centre. Options are many in the State for those aspiring to be civil servants as almost all regions across the state have seen coaching centres come up in the recent past. This guide book will unfold many little-known facts.

There are good opportunities for the youth in civil services both at the centre and the states. Bureaucracy- a professional body of civil servants- is permanent executive of the government. It provides continuity and stability to public administration. The political executive, made of the elected representatives of the people, is temporary, keeps changing periodically depending on the electoral fortunes.

The civil servants are the public servants and responsible for implementation of policies and programmes. What we need do to improve the quality of public administration is to encourage young people of impeccable integrity to join civil services. It is these bright youngsters who can make the public administrative apparatus responsive and sensitive to people’s needs and aspirations.

The careers in the civil services are very challenging. They provide opportunity to serve the people in various capacities throughout the career stretching over three decades, having security of service, attractive pay scales and perks and ample scope for promotions. The youngsters who are good in GK and current affairs having effective communication skills in English, Hindi and other regional languages can crack these prestigious examinations.

The preliminary examination consists of two papers of objective type (multiple choice) questions and carries a maximum of 400 marks. This stage is meant to serve as a screening test only, and the marks obtained in it by the candidates, who are declared qualified for admission to the main examination, are not counted for determining their final order of merit.

The merit is determined out of the total of 2,025 marks – written or main exam is of 1,750 marks and the interview is of 275.

The UPSC had declared the UPSC Civil Services Final Result 2021 on May 30, 2022 on its official website, upsc.gov.in. As many as 685 candidates have been appointed on the basis of their performance in the mains and personality tests. A total of 749 vacancies were reported by the official website of UPSC, out of which 180 seats would be reserved for IAS cadres, 37 for IFS, 200 for IPS, 242 for Central Services Group A, and

90 in Group B Services.

Normally, it takes more than 90 per cent to top any exam. However, in UPSC, the country’s toughest exam, any score above 50 per cent will most likely land a candidate a spot in the civil services. To put things in perspective, let’s check what Shruti Sharma, this year’s UPSC topper, scored.

Shruti Sharma, the highest scorer in the UPSC exam, scored just 54.56 per cent marks. The second rank holder Ankita Agarwal scored 51.85 per cent. These scores are a grim reminder that even the brightest of minds in the country can’t even score 60 per cent. A total of 685 candidates passed the exam. 508 men and 177 women have cleared the UPSC exam in 2022.

Topper’s Tips: Shruti Sharma is an alumnus of St Stephen’s College of Delhi University. She was a student of History Honours in her graduation days. She then shifted to pursue a Master’s degree from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Modern History.

She then in the meantime also got enrolled in Jamia Millia Islamia residential Coaching Academy for UPSC Preparation. This is where she got the impetus required for UPSC CSE Preparation.

Shruti had a very distinctive journey as a UPSC candidate. She began her preparation four years ago. Shruti always wanted to become an IAS officer. She started with the basics, however. She started with the preparation of UPSC IAS by studying the NCERT books. She relied on newspapers and on the notes made by her only for the UPSC preparation.

Shruti, however, did not succeed in her first UPSC attempt.

When asked she said, “This is my second attempt. Due to some issues with the medium of instruction, I had to take my Mains examination in Hindi. I missed my interview call by

citizen has the right to vote and it is one’s ‘Birth Right’. The time has come for every citizen to realise that one’s vote decides the fate of five years and beyond. It is important to vote for a candidate who has genuine concern for public, honest, qualified, competent, bearing strong moral responsibility ready to sacrifice on moral ground and a candidate of having integrity, etc.

We need a legislator who is people friendly and ready to sacrifice for corrupt-free, who is ready not to deduct commission such as party fund or secretary/minister commission from developmental funds, works against corruption not only in words but in deeds, etc. So from the bottom of my heart I would like to encourage every voter to believe in a fruitful clean election so to bring a corrupt-free government in this democratic system of government but this is possible only when the conduct of election is ‘CLEAN’ and the best opportunity would be the forth coming State General Legislative Assembly Election.(a Book entitled – “ Citizen’s Charter to ensure Accountability and Good Governance among the Public Service System” written by Kezhokhoto Savi which is to be release soon includes ‘Clean Election’ as one of the major issues to bring positive change to our society)

Kezhokhoto Savi, Advocate and Clean Election Activist.

one mark.”

Missing her interview by just one mark left an impression on her to work even harder the next time. Shruti realised her mistakes and came back stronger in her second attempt securing AIR 1 in UPSC CSE 2021.

Shruti Sharma said the UPSC syllabus is very large and exhausting, and a proper strategy is required to crack it. She used to make her own notes with the help of newspapers. She used to focus on practice for better presentation and writing answers.

Conclusion: Owing to the level of competition and toughness of the exam, one cannot be assured of clearing this exam in the very first attempt. But this phase provides you with ample amount of time to revive yourself out of failure and set oneself to achieve those coveted posts. Unfortunately, even if you failed to clear the civil services you still have time for an alternate career.

President Smt Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the valedictory function of the 97th Common Foundation Course at the LBSNAA, Mussoorie on December 9, 2022. She said that as she was addressing them, the words of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel were echoing in her memory. In April 1947, Sardar Patel was meeting a batch of IAS trainees. At that time he had said “We must expect and we have a right to expect the best out of every civil servant in whatever position of responsibility he or she may be”.

She said that the “Parvatmala Himalayan and North East Outdoor Learning Arena”, the construction of which has started today would act as a knowledge base for civil servants and trainees regarding the Himalayas and North-East Region of India. That is, NE students have a wide scope for civil services as a career option.

Amar Krishna amarkrishnaghy@gmail.com

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

In matters of conscience, the law of the majority has no place.

SNIPPETS

Soldier shoots self in J&K’s Kupwara

SRINAGAR, JAN 20 (IANS): A soldier shot himself to death on Friday in J&K’s Kupwara district.

Official sources said Lance Naik Shiv Kumar of 21 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) shot himself inside the Army camp in the Handwara area of Kupwara district.

Elephant tusks worth Rs 1 cr seized in WB

KOLKATA, JAN 20 (IANS): Smuggled elephant tusks around Rs 1 crore were recovered at the Khoribari forest area of Darjeeling in a joint operation by Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and West Bengal police, police sources said here on Friday. Three persons have been arrested in this connection. The estimated market value of the item seized will be to the tune of Rs 1 crore,” a state police official said.

1.8 kg ‘uranium’ seized in Patna

PATNA, JAN 20 (IANS): Nine persons, including two Nepalese nationals, were arrested in Patna on Friday for smuggling highly radioactive “uranium metal”, police said. A team of Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) learnt about a uranium consignment that reached the city’s Patrakar Nagar police station area, a team was set up, and carried out a raid, seizing the metal and arresting nine.

Apart from two Nepalese nationals, the 7 others belong to Patna and Purnea districts.

3 siblings qualify J&K civil service exam

JAMMU, JAN 20 (IANS):

Three siblings, two sisters and their brother belonging to Doda district have qualified the J&K administrative service (JKAS) exam. The results were declared on Thursday. Two sisters -- Huma Anjum Wani, Ifra Anjum Wani and their brother, Suhail Ahmad Wani -- belonging to far off Kahi Trankhal village of Bhaleesa area in J&K’s Doda district have qualified the JKAS exam. The family has now settled in Jammu city. Suhail, the youngest of the three siblings has secured 111th rank while Huma secured 117th and Ifra 143th rank among the 187 successful candidates.

2 booked for copyright violation

THANE, JAN 20 (PTI): An offence has been registered against owners of two godowns for allegedly violating the Copyright Act by storing products featuring Disney and Marvel characters in Maharashtra’s Thane district, police said on Friday. The godown owners were issued notices under relevant provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and let off, an official said.

The police on Wednesday raided the godowns at a complex in Gundavali and seized products worth Rs 8.67 lakh, he said. The accused had allegedly stored duplicate materials resembling the ones of the Disney Enterprises and Marvel Characters INC and featuring characters of the company in violation of the Copyright Act 1957, the official added.

Human excreta found in water tank

CHENNAI, JAN 20 (IANS): Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) will continue protest demanding demolition of the overhead water tank at Vengaivayal in the Pudukootai district after human excreta was found in it.

VCK founder leader and MP Thol Thirumavalavan in a statement on Friday said that the overhead water tank supplying water to Dalit colony in Vengaivayal must be demolished.

Charge sheet not a public document: SC

NEW DELHI, JAN 20 (PTI): A charge sheet filed by an investigating agency is not a public document, the Supreme Court said on Friday, holding that putting it in public domain will violate the rights of both the victim and the accused.

The top court made the observations while hearing a plea by journalist Saurav Das seeking free public access to charge sheets and final reports filed as per Section 173 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.

“If the relief as prayed in the present petition is allowed and all the chargesheets and relevant documents produced along with the chargesheets are put on the public domain or on the websites of the State Governments it will

be contrary to the Scheme of the Criminal Procedure Code and it may as such violate the rights of the accused as well as the victim and/or even the investigating agency. “Putting the FIR on the website cannot be equated with putting the charge sheets along with the relevant documents on the public domain and on the websites of the State Governments,” a bench of Justices M R Shah and C T Ravikumar said. The top court dismissed the PIL for lack of merit.

The apex court orally observed that if FIRs are given to those unrelated to the case like busybodies and NGOs, they might be misused. Advocate Prashant Bhushan submitted it is the duty of every public author-

ity to put out that information suo motu (of its own accord).

Bhushan submitted while the direction of the top court to police to publish copies of FIRs on their websites has induced transparency in the working of the criminal justice system, the logic of disclosure applies more strongly to charge sheets as they are filed after due investigation.

A charge sheet is a report prepared by investigation or law enforcement agencies for proving the accusation of a crime. Once the charge sheet has been submitted to a court of law, prosecution proceedings against the accused begin.

NEW DELHI, JAN 20 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said more opportunities for employment and self-employment were being created in a rapidly growing India that is taking huge strides in the infrastructure and allied sectors.

Addressing a Rozgar Mela via video conferencing, he also said that his government had effected broad changes in the recruitment process by making it more streamlined and time-bound while boosting transparency and speed. He distributed electronically 71,426 appointment letters to recruits in different government departments, and said the ongoing ‘Rozgar Mela’ exercises have become an identity of his government.

Modi said several states where the BJP and its allies were in power have been organising employment drives.

“India is witnessing change. In a rapidly growing India, opportunities for employment and self-employ-

Urination incident: DGCA slaps Rs 30 lakh fine on AI

Suspends

NEW DEL HI, JAN 20

(PTI): Aviation regulator DGCA on Friday imposed a penalty of Rs 30 lakh on Air India as well as suspended the license of the pilot-incommand of the New YorkDelhi flight in which a person allegedly urinated on a female co-passenger.

In the incident, which happened on November 26, 2022, the watchdog has also slapped a fine of Rs 3 lakh on Air India’s Director of in-flight services for failing to discharge her duties.

The enforcement actions for violation of applicable norms come nearly two months after the inci-

dent, which came to the notice of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) only on January 4. This is also the first time that DGCA has penalised an airline for unruly passenger behaviour onboard a flight.

In a statement, an Air India spokesperson said it is in receipt of the DGCA

order and studying it.

“We respectfully acknowledge the gaps in our reporting and are taking relevant steps to ensure that the same are addressed. We are also strengthening our crews’ awareness of and compliance with policies on the handling of incidents involving unruly passengers,” the airline spokesperson

Nath calls Scindia ‘politically redundant’

TIKAMGARH (MP) JAN

20 (PTI): Madhya Pradesh Congress chief and ex-CM Kamal Nath on Friday said his former party colleague and Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who dethroned him two years ago, has become “politically redundant” even in his pocket borough Gwalior, expressing confidence that his party will win the assembly elections due by the year-end. “When Scindia was there, why did they (Bharatiya Janata Party) lose the mayoral elections in Gwalior and its adjoining city Morena to the Congress last year,” he asked.

Nath was in Tikamgarh, about 270 km from the state capital Bhopal, for an event.

The Congress in July 2022 won the mayoral elections in Gwalior, once the

Jyotiraditya Scindia

capital of the erstwhile Scindia kingdom, after 57 years, as well as in Morena where the municipal corporation was formed about eight years ago.

“If he was such a big gun, why did they lose? Just tell me. We don’t need any Scindia,” he said responding to a question on Scindia’s switch from the Congress to the BJP and its potential impact in the MP assembly polls.

Nath and Scindia had together campaigned in the

2018 state elections in which the Congress defeated the BJP by a slender margin after 15 years.

But Nath stepped down as the chief minister in March 2020 after Scindia and 22 Congress MLAs resigned from the assembly and moved to the BJP, paving the way for the return of Shivraj Singh Chouhan to the top post.

Asked why he did not make attempts to save his government then, Nath reiterated that he did not want to run his government by “striking deals”.

The former Union minister expressed confidence that the Congress would make a comeback in this year’s assembly elections and launch “welfare schemes for farmers, young people and the poor” in the state.

said. On Thursday, Air India had imposed a four-month flying ban on Mishra, who is in jail now. Earlier, the airline had barred him from flying for 30 days.

In its statement on Friday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said enforcement actions have been taken in the incident, which came to the notice of the regulator on January 4.

The watchdog had issued show cause notices to Air India’s Accountable Manager, Director in-flight services, all the pilots and cabin crew members of that flight as to why enforcement action should not be taken against them for dereliction of their regulatory obligations.

ment are being created continuously. When the country witnesses massive growth, innumerable opportunities of self-employment are generated. India is witnessing this today,” Modi said. He said extensive development of infrastructure over the past eight years has created lakhs of opportunities in the self-employment sector.

“You are aware that whenever a new road is constructed, it also lays down that path for self-employment in its vicinity. New markets spring up, a range of shops are opened. The new road also makes it easier for farmers to take their produce to the markets,” the

prime minister said.

“Similarly, any place is connected with new railway lines, the markets in the region prosper, tourism also expands with new means of transportation. Opportunities for employment are present in such expansion,” the prime minister said.

Addressing the recruits, he asked them to resolve to serve people and said the mantra in the administrative system should be that the citizen is always right like it is noted in business that the consumer is always right.

That is why employment in the government sector is called “government

service” and not jobs, he said. The prime minister noted that a large number of recruits are from families where no one was in government service. A transparent and clear recruitment process awards people’s merit and competence, he said. The prime minister said new opportunities for employment are created when a village is connected under the BharatNet project of providing broadband connectivity in every village.

“Even those who are not too tech savvy understand its benefits. This has opened a new area of entrepreneurship by providing online services in villages,” Modi said.

Modi said the flourishing startup scene in tier 2 and tier 3 cities has created a new identity for the youth in the world.

The PMO had earlier said the ‘Rozgar Mela’ is a step towards fulfilment of Modi’s commitment to accord highest priority to employment generation.

HM awards Aska PS as number 1 in India

last date of receipt of applications in the department is 22nd february, 2023. cbc 32201/11/0008/2223

NEW DELHI, JAN 20 (PTI): At least 50 central and state employee unions on Friday demanded the restoration of the old pension scheme, saying the current national pension scheme has proved “harmful” for retired personnel.

They warned that if the government does not act on their demand, they would hold a rally during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

BHUBANESWAR,

JAN 20 (PTI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah Friday awarded Aska police station in Odisha’s Ganjam district as the number one police station in the country in the annual ranking of police stations for 2022, an official release said.

The award was given during the DGsP/IGsP Conference – 2022 which began in National Agriculture Science Complex, New Delhi on Friday.

Prashanta Kumar Sahoo, the inspector in-charge of Aska police station received the prestigious award with the certificate of appreciation from Shah, the release said.

“A moment of great pride and honour for Odi-

sha police,” said DGP S K Bansal, who is attending the DGsP/IGsP Conference.

The ranking of police stations across the country is an annual exercise by the ministry of home affairs and the judgement is on the basis of 165 different parameters like crime rate, investigation and disposal of cases, in -

frastructure and delivery of public service, officials said. About 20 per cent of the total points are also based on feedback about the police station from citizens, they said. The main objective of the ranking is to improve the quality of policing and make the police stations friendly, the officials added.

Govt employee unions demand old pension scheme

In a statement issued under the banner of the National Joint Council of Action (NJCA), the unions said a national convention to push for their demand will be organised in New Delhi on January 21.

“The NPS implemented for central government employees who joined after January 1, 2004 and by different state governments starting at different dates

has proved harmful for the employees who have retired. It does not match the guaranteed old pension scheme in any way,” the NJCA said in a statement in Hindi.

The statement said a joint forum has been constituted for revival of the old pension scheme under the banner of the NJCA.

A national convention with representatives of about 50 organisations of

the central and state government employees, including teaching staff, was held on January 7 at New Delhi, it said.

A steering committee consisting of 26 delegates has been constituted while the national conference at New Delhi will adopt a roadmap for a programme on “abolishing the NPS” and “reinstating the old pension scheme”, it said.

pilot license for 3 months

Says putting charge sheet in public domain may violate rights of accused, victims

PM Modi virtually attends the distribution ceremony of 71,000 appointment letters under Rozgar Mela, Friday. (PTI)

Amit Shah with Ajit Doval, Tapan Kumar Deka and police officers.

Kamal Nath and

2023 to be tough on trade as economies will slow down: GTRI

NEW DELHI, JAN 20

(PTI): Announcement of measures such as quick refund of duties, resolving inverted duty issues and bringing exports through post and courier at par with standard customs clearances in the forthcoming Budget would significantly help boost the country’s outbound shipments, economic think tank GTRI said on Friday.

Most forecasts say that 2023 will be tough on trade as large global economies are slowing down for many reasons and in this backdrop some extra push would help the exporting community of India, the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) said.

Budget 2023 is scheduled to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.

The think tank suggested five measures - credit all duty refunds into exporters account as soon as goods leave; reduce in-

cidences of inverted duties as they weaken Make in India; use simple language in customs notifications; bringing exports through post and courier at par with standard customs clearances; and not allowing machinery import at zero duty for making products for the domestic market.

An inverted duty condition happens when duties on inputs are high, and on corresponding output is low. Expensive inputs make costly products that cannot compete in the export market. In the domestic market, such products are prone to cheaper imports.

These measures would help competitiveness of domestic exporters and that in turn would help increase the shipments, it said adding India’s merchandise trade exceeded USD 1.1 trillion in 2022.

It suggested a merger of the duty drawback and RoDTEP (Remission of

Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) schemes into one and notification of product category wise rates as a percentage of export values.

“Both schemes have independent rule books and rate lists even though they apply for the same export consignment. Also, if an exporter forgets to tick the relevant column in the shipping bill, he gets no money even if he has exported and met all other conditions,” it added.

The government refunds the taxes paid on inputs used in making of export products and this money is coming down gradually. The average rate of refund as a percentage of export value used to be over 20 per cent two decades back and the average rate came down to about 10 per cent five years back.

Now the average rate is less than 4 per cent from both Drawback and RODTEP schemes, it said.

Dr. Jamir inaugurates Royaloak Store in Dimapur

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, JAN 20

(NPN): Veteran Naga politician, former governor and chief minister, Dr. SC Jamir on Friday said in order for Nagaland to have a peaceful, harmonious and progressive society, the people needed “love, compassion, sympathy and reconciliation”. He questioned whether Nagas, as Christians, were true to the religion they believe in.

Jamir said this while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural programme of Royaloak furniture brand showroom, at Purana Bazaar. Lamenting that there has been a total absence of concern and truth in the State, Dr Jamir said: “Until and unless we speak the truth, Nagaland will always loom in darkness and if we allow this to continue our future will be bleak,” Dr Jamir said.

Dwelling on effective governance, Jamir wondered what was the point of having so many districts in Nagaland. A day will come where it will be very difficult to manage, he said.

“Just because other states of the country with huge population and areas have districts, so we also want to have districts. It was district of Assam, now we have around 14 to 15 districts. How are we going to manage in the future?” he asked.

“I think we should also look forward and say that

administration can be carried out only when we have manpower and area, otherwise now it is only copying from other States. We have to evolve a system where our governance will be effective and efficient,” he said. Jamir further went on to state that in the coming years, Dimapur would become the gateway to the Southeast Asian vis-à-vis Act East Policy and stressed on the need to create a conducive environment to become the hub of commercial activities not just for the North East but the entire country.

MD Royaloak Mathan Subramaniam, HeadFranchise Kiran Chabbaria, Franchise owner Kanti Jain, director/proprietor New Life Bible College, Heili Wotsa and East Head Franchise Royaloak, Kishore Kharbanda were among those who attended the event.

(From p-1)

However, he said the main concern was why was issuance of ticket being kept in abeyance since as it only indicated that there must be some issue.

“If there is no issue then why is it kept in abeyance?” he asked.

Referring to a statement made by chief minister Neiphiu Rio and another NDPP party leader denying that any such comment was made by Metha, Sheqi suspected that there could “definitely” be some

reasons why issuing of BJP party ticket in Pughoboto had been kept in abeyance. He remarked that even if it may even be assumed that some were involved in pressing the ticket for NDPP with regard to 13 Pughoboto, it would be the people who are going to decide. He said while there had been an understanding that the seat would be for BJP as per the 40:20 seat sharing arrangement between NDPP and BJP respectively; it would be unfortunate if the understanding between NDPP and BJP

was broken. “In the last election, our candidate lost by a very close margin. However, this time he is in a good position and, God willing, we will prevail with a comfortable margin,” he commented.

He claimed that both BJP State president Temjen Imna Along and deputy chief minister Y Patton had previously said Pughoboto was a BJP seat. Therefore, he said he was hopeful that party leaders would also press hard that the ticket was given to BJP in accordance with the under-

standing that had already been made since the last Assembly election. “We are not blaming anyone. But, if any element is involved then it should be understood by everyone that it is not only NDPP that is for Naga solution but even BJP. So, there should be no misunderstanding in this regard,” he clarified. He hoped that the good understanding between the coalition partners would prevail. Party leaders from the constituency also held a meeting with BJP State level leaders after the dharna.

Training on UDISE+ held in Kohima

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 20 (NPN): A training programme for school heads, principals for implementation of real-time online UDISE+ 2022-23 and student profile for schools under EBRC L Khel, Kohima, EBRC Viswema and EBRC Sechü Zubza was organised by District Mission Authority (DMA) Samagra Shiksha (SS) Kohima at capital convention centre here on Friday.

Delivering keynote address, district education officer Kohima-cumdistrict project coordinator, DMA SS Kohima, Emilo Patton, highlighted the importance of UDISE data and how it helps detect malpractices such as in some instances where some teachers were employed both in the

private and government schools. She said UDISE stands for Unified District Information System for Education and the data collected through this system will help eliminate the chances of manipulation of school records and many other issues. Patton remarked that the best possible education should be given to the children in the right way, at the right time, at the right place and that the strength of schools depended on the quality of education. In order to bring about changes and improvement in the educational system UDISE was created which was one of the largest management information system for education in the country initiated by department of Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, government of India.

She pointed out that the main objective of UDISE was to collect data from different schools across the country so that government could bring about reforms in the education sector. Patton said under this system each school was provided with a unique 11-digit code which ensures that the school was under the supervision of the government of India and by implementing UDISE the planners could get more information and awareness regarding the different parameters related to schools.

In a short speech, SDEO Kohima, Kevizeno Savino, said UDISE report serves as the lifeline, the backbone of the schools where development of both academics and physical infrastructure takes place.

She disclosed that UDISE was a

nationwide program aimed at getting the best possible data that would help planners in formulating the best strategies suitable for the economically weaker section of the society who are unable to afford basic education.

Earlier, the inaugural was chaired by asst district coordinator, DMA SS Kohima, Thongsenlo, invocation was pronounced by sister Esther while vote of thanks was proposed by TOTs EBRC L Khel Kohima, Vizoneilie Pienyü.

Resource persons during the two training sessions included system analysts SMA, SS Nagaland, Akum Aier and Medosalie, asst programmer DMA, SS Kohima, Aseno. Training program for Chiephobozou and Tseminyu will be held on January 23, 2023.

Tokheho for oil exploration to boost State’s economy

(From p-1)

He said the total approved cost for medical college in Kohima was Rs.179 crore, out of which the Central government had already released Rs 170.10 crore, and Rs 325 crore for medical college in Mon whose construction had started in 2014 but was incomplete to date even though funds had been released.

Tokheho mentioned that the lack of medical college in the State had caused untold hardships to medical aspirants. He commented that had the two medical colleges been ready with all facilities, people would have stopped traveling to neighbouring States and other parts of the country for treatment.

“if every North-eastern State already has a medical

college, I see no reason as to why Nagaland cannot have not one but two medical colleges,” he remarked.

Speaking on Naga political issue, Tokheho noted that talks had been going on for the last two and half decades and that though negotiations had initially started with one group, there were more than 10 groups now who had signed ceasefire agreements with the Centre. He said the formation of multiple groups had greatly impacted the State’s economy as there were multiple taxes on a single business activity, which might not be immediately felt by an individual but over time it hampered the macroeconomics.

He admitted that the political negotiations and ceasefire between the Centre

and Naga political groups (NPGs) had brought peace in the State, but stressed that it was time for both sides to take the final steps to bring about an everlasting peace to the land by bringing the arduous negotiations that had lasted for more than 20 years to a logical conclusion.

Tokheho also flagged unemployment among the youth and termed it as the biggest challenge for Nagaland. He said the unemployment rate in Nagaland was among the highest in the country.

He alleged that unemployed youth in the State were finding avenues of employment in various antisocial activities and warned that if the issue of unemployment was not tackled soon, the economic scenario would become bleaker.

He noted that Nagaland also had the highest percentage of government employees as per the population size.

He pointed out that though the State government had banned recruitment of government employees since 2020, it had not brought any relief to the State exchequer.

Observing that a major chunk of the State’s exchequer was spent under salary and pension head, Tokheho said the power sector too was guzzling the State’s fund due to purchase of power from various sources as the State was unable to

generate its own power.

According to Tokheho, not only was the State government spending huge amount of money in purchasing power, but even the Power Department was unable to realise dues from consumers to even breakeven the purchasing cost. He pointed out that the revenue deficit of the Power Department had greatly contributed to the deficit in the State Budget, while irregular electricity supply had negatively impacted the economy. He hoped that with the improvement in the power sector, the economy too would improve.

Dr. SC Jamir

SNIPPETS

US announces another USD 2.5 bn military aid package

Stir in France over pension reforms

for him.

for Ukraine

WASHINGTON, JAN 20 (PTI): The United States has announced another military assistance package of USD 2.5 billion for Ukraine to fight against Russian aggression, taking the total US military assistance to USD 27.5 billion. “This assistance package will provide Ukraine with hundreds of additional armoured vehicles, including Stryker armoured personnel carriers, Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, and High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled vehicles,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Thursday.

Putin views Pak as ‘key partner in South Asia’

LAHORE, JAN 20 (IANS): Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has received a special message from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who views Islamabad as Moscows key partner in South Asia and the Islamic world, reiterating his country’s keen interest in deepening bilateral relationship as well as increasing trade and investment between the two sides. The message was delivered by the visiting Russian Energy Minister Nikolay Shulginov, who called on the Prime Minister in Lahore, The Express Tribune reported.

Canada upgrading defence infrastructure in its north

OTTAWA, JAN 20 (IANS): Canada continued to invest in defence infrastructure upgrades to meet emerging security challenges across the North and Arctic, Defence Minister Anita Anand said. According to a statement issued by the Defence Ministry on Thursday, the Ministry will be increasing its investment in the Inuvik Airport by 80 million Canadian dollars ($64 million), for a total investment of 230 million Canadian dollars ($184 million), to extend and modernise the airport’s 6,000-foot main runway.

Anand said in the statement that the Arctic faces unique safety and security concerns because of climate change and that the military personnel will be provided with the infrastructure they require to be well-prepared to defend the North, Xinhua news agency reported.

PARIS, JAN 20 (AP): At least 1.1 million people protested on the streets of Paris and other French cities amid nationwide strikes against plans to raise the retirement age, but President Emmanuel Macron insisted he would press ahead with the proposed pension reforms.

Emboldened by the high turnout, French unions on Thursday announced new strikes and protests January 31, vowing to try to get the government to back down on plans to raise the standard retirement age from 62 to 64. Macron says the measure is needed to keep the pension system financially viable, but unions say it threatens hard-fought worker rights.

During a news conference at a French-Spanish summit in Barcelona, Spain, Macron said that “we must do that reform” to “save” the pension system.

“We will do it with respect, in a spirit of dialogue but also determination and responsibility,” he added.

As Macron spoke, riot police pushed back against some protesters throwing projectiles on the sidelines of the largely peaceful Paris march. Some other minor incidents briefly flared up, leading officers to use tear

Jinping meets with Chinese soldiers in Indo-China border

BEIJING, JAN 20 (AGENCIES): The president of China, Xi Jinping connected with the soldiers of the People’s Liberation Army posted at the international border between India and China virtually on Wednesday, reports the Sentinel.

As reported by the state-controlled media agency of the country on January 19, the president interacted with the soldiers on January 18 from the headquarters of the People’s Liberation Army in the capital of the country. According to the report he addressed the troops posted at a border defence station under the Xinjiang Military Command. It is important to note that this is the only PLA command that the president was shown speaking to and telling them to inspect their combat readiness. This unit has the soldiers looking after the border regions along Eastern Ladakh in the Western Sector of the international border. This region has been seeing tensions in the last few years after multiple attempts of transgression by the PLA.

gas. Paris police said that 38 people had been detained.

In a country with an aging population and growing life expectancy where everyone receives a state pension, Macron’s government says the reform is the only way to keep the system solvent.

Unions propose a tax on the wealthy or more payroll contributions from employers to finance the pension system instead. Polls suggest most French people also oppose the reform.

Strikes across France severely disrupted transport, schools and other public services across France.

More than 200 rallies were staged around France on Thursday, including a

large one in Paris involving all France’s major unions.

The Interior Ministry said more than 1.1 million people protested across France, including 80,000 in Paris. Unions said more than 2 million people took part nationwide, and 4,00,000 in Paris.

Big crowds also turned out for protests against previous efforts at retirement reform, during Macron’s first term and under former President Nicolas Sarkozy in 2010. But none of those drew more than 1 million people according to government estimates.

Jean Paul Cachina, 56, a worker in human resources, joined the march in the French capital — a first ever

“I am not here for myself,” he said. “I am here to defend the youth and workers doing demanding jobs. I work in the construction industry sector and I’m a firsthand witness of the suffering of employees.”

Many young people were among the Paris crowd, chanting “the youth is protesting. Macron you are finished.” High school student unions had urged members to join the protests.

Nathan Arsac, 19, a student and member of the UNEF union, said: “I’m afraid of what’s going to happen next. Losing our social achievements could happen so fast. I’m scared of the future when I’ll be older and have to retire.”

The economic cost of the strikes wasn’t immediately clear. The government worries that a big show of resistance Thursday could encourage unions to continue with protracted walkouts that could hobble the economy just as France is struggling against inflation and trying to boost growth.

Most train services around France were cancelled, including some international connections, according to the SNCF rail authority.

Western envoys visit Kosovo, Serbia to defuse tensions

PRISTINA, JAN 20 (AP): Western envoys on Friday were visiting Kosovo and Serbia as part of their ongoing efforts to defuse tensions and help secure a reconciliation agreement between the two.

Envoys from the United States, the European Union, France, Germany and Italy met with Prime Minister Albin Kurti in Kosovo.

They plan to move to Belgrade later in the day to meet with President Aleksandar Vucic to discuss possible next steps toward normalising relations Serbia and Kosovo.

After more than two hours of “long, ... not easy, but ... very honest, very open” talks with Kurti, EU envoy Miroslav Lajcak said it was too soon to announce any dramatic developments on a proposal presented to Pristina and Belgrade last year.

“We had expected better understanding of the opportunities this proposal offers,” Lajcak, a former foreign minister of Slovakia, said.

US says it’s time for Finland, Sweden to join NATO

UNITED NATIONS,

JAN 20 (AP): The United Nations has reported a deadly new attack in volatile northeastern Congo by the same local militia blamed for killing nearly 50 people recently discovered in mass graves. UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said Thursday that the latest attack took place overnight Wednesday at a camp for displaced people and reportedly killed seven people and sent many others fleeing from the site. UN peacekeepers were deployed immediately after the overnight attack to secure the camp, 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) east of Djugu in Ituri province, and deter further violence, he said. The attack followed the discovery of mass graves containing the bodies of 49 civilians in two other villages about (19 miles) 30 kilometres east of the town of Bunia in Ituri. The same local militia CODECO — Cooperative for the Development of Congo — has been blamed for the killings.

WASHINGTON, JAN 20 (AP): The Biden administration has said it’s time for Turkey to ratify Finland and Sweden’s applications to join NATO, bluntly saying that holdout members of the alliance should quickly approve their memberships.

The State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken had affirmed resolute support for Finland and Sweden in phone calls with their foreign ministers and said the US places great importance on “remaining allies quickly ratifying their accession”.

In nearly identical statements about the two calls released just 13 minutes apart, State Department spokesman Ned Price

Thursday said Blinken had “reiterated US support for Finland and Sweden’s NATO accession”.

“He conveyed again our firm belief that Finland and Sweden are ready to join the alliance,” Price said of the calls with Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom and Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto. “The United States urges remaining allies to quickly ratify their accession.”

The statements did not mention Turkey by name, but the calls came just a day after Blinken met with the foreign minister of Turkey, whose country is the most ardent NATO holdout against Finland and Sweden joining the alliance.

“I hope we will get there, to full understanding and full use of the potential of this proposal.”

The EU has spent more than a decade mediating dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade. No details of the latest proposal have been made public.

“We are in the middle of our mission, and we continue to Belgrade,” Lajcak said. Last month, the Western powers participated in resolving a tense situation in northern Kosovo, where Serbs erected barricades on the main roads to protest the arrest of a former Serb po-

lice officer.

The situation in the north remains volatile. Only a few dozen police officers of the European Union rule of law mission, known as EULEX, are taking care of the area’s security after all ethnic Serb representatives resigned from their posts in November.

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008.

Serbia, with support from allies Russia and China, has refused to recognise Kosovo’s statehood, which is accepted by the U.S. and much of the West.

FELICITATION

Totok Union Mon Town congratulates Mr. W. Khampei Chingponghu , S/o Shri. Wanglin of Totok Chingnyu Village for achieving Gold Medal in 64-71 Kg category individual sparring in the 37th National Taekwon-Do ITF Championship held from 28 to 30 Dec, 2022 at Thyagraj Indoor Stadium, New Delhi. The union wishes him successful and bright future in his career.

Joe Biden on classified docs discovery: ‘There’s no there there’

APTOS (CALIFORNIA), JAN 20 (AP): A frustrated President Joe Biden said there is “no there there” when he was persistently questioned about the discovery of classified documents and official records at his home and former office.

“We found a handful of documents were filed in the wrong place,” Biden said to reporters who questioned him during a tour of the damage from storms in California on Thursday. “We immediately turned them over to the Archives and the Justice Department.”

Biden said he was “ful-

ly cooperating and looking forward to getting this resolved quickly”.

“I think you’re going to find there’s nothing there,” he said. “There’s no there there.” The White House has disclosed that Biden at-

torneys found classified documents and official records on four occasions in recent months — on November 2 at the offices of the Penn Biden Centre in Washington, and then in follow up searches on December 20 in the garage of the president’s home in Wilmington, Delaware, and on January 11 and 12 in the president’s home library. Attorney General Merrick Garland last week appointed Robert Hur, a former Maryland US attorney, to serve as special counsel to oversee the Justice Department’s inquiry into the documents.

DEPARTMENT OF POWER, GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND, KOHIMA PRESS NOTE

PUBLIC NOTICE IN RESPECT OF PETITION FOR APPROVAL OF ARR & TARIFF PPROPOSAL FOR THE FY 2023-24. FILED BY DEPARTMENT OF POWER, GOVT. OF NAGALAND BEFORE NAGALAND ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION (NERC)

1. Notice is hereby given to all consumers and stake holders that the Department of Power, Government of Nagaland, a Deemed Licensee, has filed the Petition For approval of ARR & Tariff Proposal for the FY 2023-24 before the Nagaland Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), on 19-12-2022 under section 61, 62 & 64 of the Electricity Act 2003.

The petition has been admitted by the Hon’ble Commission on 21-12-2022 and numbered as Petition No. 06/2022-23. The same is as summarized hereunder:

Objections/Comments are invited from various stakeholders on Petition for Approval of ARR & Tariff Proposal for the FY 2023-24 by Department of Power, Government of Nagaland Highlights of the ARR & Tariff Proposal for the FY 2023-24 submitted by Department of Power, Government of Nagaland.

Sr. No. Particulars FY 2023-24

1 Annual Revenue Requirement

i Cost of power purchase (Rs. In Cr.) 404.61

ii Transmission Charges (Rs. In Cr.) 86.86

iii Total cost of power purchase (Rs. In Cr.) (i+ii) 491.48

iv Cost of Generation (Rs. In Cr.) 20.06

v Employee Expenses (Rs. In Cr.) 154.38 vii Repair & Maintenance Expenses (Rs. In Cr.) 34.61 vii Administration and General Expenses (Rs. In Cr.) 3.25 viii Total O & M Expenses (Rs. In Cr.) (v+vi+vii) 192.24

ix Interest and finance charges (Rs. In Cr.) 0.00

x Depreciation (Rs. In Cr.) 77.09

xi Interest on working capital (Rs. In Cr.) 0.00

xii Return on Equity (Rs. In Cr.) 0.00

xiii Total Revenue Requirement (Rs. In Cr.) (iii+iv+viii+ix+x+xi+xii) 780.87

xiv Less: Non-Tariff Income (Rs. In Cr.) 15.33

xv Net Revenue Requirement (Rs. In Cr.) (xiii-xiv) 765.54

Annual Tariff Proposal (Post-paid) Energy Charge (Rs./Kwh)

CATEGORY 'A' DOMESTIC

0 to 30 kwh 5.35

31 to 100 kwh 5.90

101 to 250 kwh 6.50

> 250 kwh 7.35

CATEGORY 'B' INDUSTRIAL

< 500 kwh 6.50

501 to 5000 kwh 7.00

> 5000 kwh 7.65

8.90

P. Renbenthung Lotha, President, BJP 37 Tyui A/C Mandal

2. Shri. Nzunyimo Ngullie, Vice President, BJP 37 Tyui A/C Mandal

3. Shri. Zulamo Ngullie, Secretary, BJP 37 Tyui A/C Mandal

4. Shri. Eyilow Kikon, Adviser, BJP 37 Tyui A/C Mandal

5. Smti. Thungbeni Ezung, Executive Member, BJP 37 Tyui A/C Mandal

6. Shri. Nzamo Ngullie, Executive Member, BJP 37 Tyui A/C Mandal

Copy To:

1. Shri. Temjen Imna Along Longkumer, President, BJP Nagaland State

2. Shri. Nalin Kohli Ji, BJP National Spokesperson & I/C Nagaland

3. Shri. B.L. Santhosh Ji, BJP National General Secretary (Organization)

Nr. E-n-C Office, Department of Power, A.G Colony, Kohima and a copy to the Chief Engineer (D&R), Department of Power, Government of Nagaland, Kohima-797001.

WC-13/23

Copies of filings and application referred at above are available in the office of the Chief Engineer (D&R), Department of Power, Govt. of Nagaland, Kohima-797001. Interested parties may inspect / peruse the said MYT Petition and take note thereof during office hours at the office. Copies of the above documents can also be obtained from the above office on payment of Rs.200/- per copy of Petition in cash or through DD.

Suggestions in this regard may also be sent to nerc_kohima@yahoo.com and cepower1@gmail.com before 30-01-2023.

Superintending Engineer (Rev), Department of Power Government of Nagaland Kohima.

Joe Biden

(TAHYAO (S.YEANGLONG) General Secretary, TUMT President, TUMT DB-93/23

UN: New Congo attack by local militia kills 7, many flee

People gather in Place de la Republique during a demonstration against proposed pension changes, Jan. 19, in Paris. (AP)

Antony Blinken and Turkey’s Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu meet in Washington, Wednesday, Jan. 18. (AP)

Envoys met with PM Albin Kurti in Kosovo. (AP)

Folk-rock pioneer David Crosby dies at age 81

David Crosby, one of the architects of the 1960s’ folk-, psych-, and country-rock scenes as a founding member of both the Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, and one of the most influential singersongwriters of all time, has died. The two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee was 81 years old.

“It is with great sadness after a long illness, that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away,” read a statement released Thursday by Crosby’s wife of 36 years, Jan Dance. “He was lovingly surrounded by his wife and soulmate Jan and son Django.

Although he is no longer here with us, his humanity and kind soul will continue to guide and inspire us. His legacy will continue to live on through his legendary music. Peace, love, and harmony to all who knew David and those he touched. We will miss him dearly. At this time, we respectfully and kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and try to deal with our profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers.”

was born Aug. 14, 1941, in Los Angeles, into a privileged family that included his father, Oscarwinning cinematographer Floyd Crosby. In 1964, he formed seminal folk-rock band the Byrds with Gene Clark, Michael Clarke, Chris Hillman, and Roger McGuinn; while his tu -

multuous time in the group only lasted three years, his alternative guitar tunings, angelic harmonies, and unique phrasings established the template for a classic California sound that influenced countless musicians for decades, including Tom Petty, Robyn Hitchcock, Big Star, and R.E.M. Among the Byrds songs Crosby co-

Farhan Akhtar, Divine, Prateek Kuhad to headline Vh1 Supersonic 2023 line-up

Agalaxy of music stars will descend at the upcoming edition of the multi-genre music and lifestyle festival, Vh1 Supersonic, which returns after three years. The stellar line up will see Anne-Marie and CKay performing in India for the first time.

Multi-hyphenate Bollywood star Farhan Akhtar too will be gracing the stage followed by rapper Divine, indie sensation Prateek Kuhad, the music producers of 'Gehraiyaan' OAFF & Savera and singer-songwriter Anuv Jain. Talking about performing at Vh1 Supersonic 2023, Farhan said, "As a singer-songwriter, there's nothing more that I love than performing live for my fans, and Vh1 Supersonic is the perfect stage for it. I'm so looking forward to sharing my music with everyone at the festival!"

In addition, the festival will offer a wide musical spectrum featuring indie electronic music producer Anyasa, indie techno artist Arjun Vagale, British DJ Bill

All the artistes will be performing at the venue across five stages.

wrote were “Eight Miles High,” “Renaissance Fair,” “Mind Gardens,” “Lady Friend,” “Everybody’s Been Burned,” “Dolphin’s Smile,” “Why,” “I See You,” and “It Happens Each Day.”

Ironically, Crosby’s firing from the Byrds partially stemmed from an incident when he joined Buffalo Springfield onstage at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, filling in for an absent Neil Young, yet that opened the door to his next project, formed in 1968: the supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash (sometimes Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) with Buffalo Springfield’s Stephen Stills and the Hollies’ Graham Nash. Among the songs Crosby co-wrote while in CS&N(Y) were “Guinnevere,” “Almost Cut My Hair,” “Long Time Gone,” “Delta,” “Wooden Ships,” and “Déjà Vu.”

Crosby, Stills & Nash’s self-titled debut went to No. 6 on the U.S. album chart and sold quadrupleplatinum, and CS&N won the Grammy for Best New Artist in 1969. That same year, they joined forces with new on/off member Neil

Young and played their second-ever gig in front of 500,000 revelers at the Woodstock festival. The subsequent CSN&Y albums Déjà Vu and live LP 4-Way Street both went to No. 1 and sold a combined 11 million copies, but Crosby’s personal issues, including a heroin habit formed after his girlfriend Christine Hinton was killed in an automobile accident, led to Crosby parting with this group as well.

Over the years, Crosby participated in various reunions with both the Byrds (in 1972-73) and with CSN&Y, most notably with latter at Live Aid in 1985, various Bridge School Benefits, and full tours in 2000, 2002, and 2006. The final Crosby, Stills & Nash performance took place in 2015 at an ill-fated National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Washington, D.C., after which Nash announced that CSN&Y would never perform together again because of a falling-out with Crosby. However, in recent years, Crosby expressed a willingness to consider another reunion.

(Yahoo Entertainment)

Prince Harry’s memoir ‘Spare’ sells 3.2M copies in 1st week

Prince Harry’s “Spare” sold more than 3.2 million copies worldwide after just one week of publication and will likely rank among the bestselling memoirs of all time.

Penguin Random House announced Thursday that Prince Harry’s headline-making memoir sold 1.6 million copies in the U.S. alone. It’s a number comparable to first week sales for blockbusters such as former President Barack Obama’s “A Promised Land” and former first lady Michelle Obama’s “Becoming,” which has sold more than 17 million copies since coming out in 2018.

The British publisher announced last week that “Spare” sold 400,000 copies in the United Kingdom in all formats — hardback, e-book and audio — on its first day.

The total sales announced for “Spare” are for print, audio and digital editions in the major English-language markets: the U.S., U.K., Canada

and Australia. The book has come out in 15 other languages, and editions in 10 additional languages are expected.

“Spare” may set records for nonfiction, but no book in memory approaches the pace of the final Harry Potter novel, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” which in 2007 sold more than 10

million copies in its first 24 hours.

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, worked on his book with American novelist J.R. Moehringer, who also helped write Andre Agassi’s acclaimed “Open” and is the author of “The Tender Bar,” a memoir adapted by George Clooney into a movie starring Ben Affleck. (AP)

Gossip Girl reboot canceled by HBO Max after 2 seasons

It’s time for Gossip Girl to sign off once more.

Season 2 of the teen drama revival will be its last — at least on HBO Max.

John, Pe-

Other artistes performing at the event will be experimental lo-fi artist Begum, soul/R&B band Easy Wanderlings, Hamza Rahimtula, and Ranj x Clifr, T.ill Apes, Tyrell Dub Corp, Bee Wise, Earl Gateshead, General Zooz, Harshal, Ital Soup feat David Goren, Leah, Mozez x PlanB, Nida, Ninjahdread, Petah Sunday, Parallel Live, Praise Jah Sound, Sanyas-I, Sourfunk x Joven Roy, Sunflower Tape Machine and Yash Nirwan.

Netflix to soon roll out paid password sharing

Festival Curator, Nikhil Chinapa, said, "This year, Vh1 Supersonic continues on its journey of being a 'Festival of Firsts'. As we've always done, this year too, we've got an epic line-up of ground-breaking global artists and indie musicians performing for the first time in India. Our lineup reflects our own passion for dynamism and progress and includes artists that many will find exhilarating and unique. Our festival layout sees many changes too, unfolding like an exciting graphic novel where each panel brings a new surprise and tells a different story, challenging our fans to explore, indulge and experience our Vh1 Supersonic festival, 2023."

For the lifestyle bit, Vh1 Supersonic will also bring to its Superfam the SuperStreet arena, a melange of everything pop and trending including fashion wear, NFT and immersive augmented reality art. (IANS)

When

Sponges

“So here’s the goss: it is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce GOSSIP GIRL will not be continuing on HBO Max,” showrunner Joshua Safran wrote Thursday on social media.

He continued, “We are currently looking for another home, but in this climate, that might prove an uphill [battle], and so if this is the end, at least we went out on the highest of highs. Thank you for watching, and I hope you’ll tune into the finale next Thursday to see how it all comes together.”

An HBO Max spokesperson said in a statement provided to EW, “We are very grateful to Josh Safran, Stephanie Savage and Josh Schwartz for bringing us back to the Upper East Side and all the scandals at Constance Billard. Although we are not moving forward with a third season

of Gossip Girl, we thank them for the enticing love triangles, calculated backstabbing and impeccable fashion this series brought to a new audience.”

The original Gossip Girl series aired from 2007 to 2012 on the CW and was created by Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, based the book series by

to

Streaming giant Netflix has announced that it will roll out its paid password sharing “more broadly” “later in” the first quarter (Q1) of this year.

“While our terms of use limit use of Netflix to a household, we recognise this is a change for members who share their account more broadly,” the company said in its earnings reports on Thursday.

“As we roll out paid sharing, members in many countries will also have the option to pay extra if they want to share Netflix with people they don’t live with,” it added.

After launching the paid password sharing, the streaming giant expects some “cancel reaction in each market” but it will eventually result in “improved overall revenue.”

The company also announced that Reed Hastings has stepped down as

Netflix’s co-CEO and will now serve as an executive chairman, and Greg Peters has stepped up from COO to become Ted Sarandos’s co-CEO. Meanwhile, last month, it was reported that Netflix was planning to put an end to its password sharing feature in early 2023.

The company had long been aware that password sharing is a problem that negatively affects its earnings, but the rise in subscriptions in 2020 led the streaming giant to avoid addressing the issue. Because of the revenue downfall last year and the platform’s first subscriber loss in 10 years, Hastings decided that it was time to take action on the issue.

In October last year, the streaming giant had announced the ‘Profile Transfer’ feature to prevent password sharing that had been rolled out to all members globally. (IANS)

Safran’s reboot launched on HBO Max in 2021 with an all-new cast, while retaining Kristen Bell as the voice of the

toss common household items

It doesn’t take long for sponges to become a hotbed of bacteria. They can spread germs to your hands and then to your food. Or if you have a cut on your hand, bacteria can enter your body that way. Even if you boil or microwave your sponges after each use, scientists say it’s best to replace them once a week.

Pillows

Your nightly neck and head prop loses shape and firmness over time. It also absorbs the sweat, oil, and skin cells you shed while you sleep. Trade in old pillows for new ones every 2 years -sooner if they’re flat, lumpy, or stay folded after you bend them in half.

Toothbrush

Twice-a-day scrubbing sessions really do in your toothbrush’s bristles over time. For best cleaning results, switch to a new one every 3 to 4 months.

Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick pots and pans with scratches, grooves, or flaking polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) should be on your kitchenware move list. Luckily, Teflon flakes won’t hurt you if they get in your food. Still, they’re a sign you’re due for something new.

Makeup

While products vary, a good rule of thumb is to restock cosmetics around the

6-month mark to keep bacteria at bay. Always replace makeup after you’ve used it on infected skin or eyes.

Makeup Brushes

Wash applicators regularly with warm water and a mild soap to keep them clean enough to use for a good while. Follow this schedule: once a week for tools that apply wet makeup; twice a week for eye makeup applicators. Brushes for dry makeup can go a month between cleaning. Toss them once they look frayed or worn.

Air Filters

Your HVAC system’s filters should come with instructions that tell you how often to replace them, but the EPA recommends every 60-90 days as a general guide. If they seem extra gunky when you switch them, change them out sooner next time.

Medications

Manufacturers are required to put expiration dates on their meds. Some studies show they work much longer than their stamped shelf life, but the best option is to

keep your medicine cabinet contents current. Most expired medications will lose strength over time. When you toss drugs, be responsible: The FDA’s website can give you guidelines for what to trash, what to flush, and where to look for take-back options in your area.

Extension Cords

Any sign of wear on an extension cord means it’s time to throw it out. Cracks, damage, or problems with the plug or prongs can be a fire hazard. Inspect cords before use, and don’t run one under a rug or overload it with too many appliances.

Smoke Alarms

Check the manufacturer’s date on your smoke alarm. If it’s 10 years ago or more, get a new one. This goes for alarms powered by 9-volt batteries, lithium batteries, or those that are hardwired into your home.

Contact Lens Case

To keep your contact case clean, rinse it with fresh saline solution, not water, after each use. Chuck it for a fresh one every 3 months. Cracked or damaged cases make a great

home for bacteria, so replace them right away.

Electronics

Ready to get rid of your computer, TV, cellphone, or other gadget? Do it right: Check with the manufacturer first to see if they have a recycling or donation program. Or call your local recycling center so your gadgets don’t end up in a landfill.

Batteries

It’s safe to toss regular batteries (AA, AAA, manganese, and carbon-zinc) in the trash, but it’s worth a call to your local recycling center to find out other options for these single-use power supplies. Nickel-cadmium or small sealed lead acid rechargeable batteries have toxic metals in them that are bad for the environment and the human body. You’ll need to find a drop-off facility or recycling event.

Paint

Leftover water-based latex paint that hasn’t been stored in an airtight container at room temperature can break down in a matter of months or sooner. If you notice the can bulging, it there’s probably a buildup of gas-producing bacteria inside. Call your local government or public works to find out how to get rid of it safely.

MedicallyReviewedby CarmelitaSwiner,MD

eponymous narrator. The new Gossip Girl changed a few things from the previous version, though. Instead of keeping Gossip Girl’s identity a secret, the new show revealed upfront that the blogging was done by teachers at the fancy high school.

Gossip Girl’s axing comes as part of a wave of

cancellations, renewal reversals, and writes-downs at Warner Bros. Discovery, the company that resulted from the merger between WarnerMedia and Discovery Inc. in April. The season 2 finale — quite possibly the series finale — hits HBO Max on Jan. 26. (Yahoo Entertainment)

David Van Cortlandt Crosby

Copies of the new book by Prince Harry called “Spare” are displayed at Sherman’s book store in Freeport, Maine, Tuesday. (AP)

Cecily von Ziegesar. It explored the ins and outs of life at a prestigious New York City prep school, and minted a few stars in the process — including Blake Lively and Penn Badgley.

The cast of the ‘Gossip Girl’ reboot

Brewster, Kohra, electronic producer Zokhuma, and multidisciplinary electronic and techno phenomenon BLOT!, Stalvart

ter Cat Recording Co. and Lifafa.

Hockey WC: Australia thrash South Africa 9-2

-- for South Africa.

The Kookaburras slowed down a bit in the third and fourth quarters, just scoring a goal each.

The fourth quarter saw both sides scoring a goal each.

Five of the Australian goals were field efforts while three were from the penalty corners. Australia earned eight PCs as against five of the South Africans.

WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh refuses to quit

NANDIN I NAGAR (GONDA, UP), JAN 20 (PTI): Under-fire Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Friday termed the protest by the country’s top grapplers “dharna of Shaheen Bagh” and reiterated that he won’t quit from the post.

ROURKELA, JAN 20

(PTI): Star forward Blake Govers scored four times, including from a penalty stroke, as title contenders Australia thrashed South Africa 9-2 to top Pool A and directly qualify for the quarterfinals of the FIH Men’s World Cup here on Friday.

Australia will face the winner of the crossover match between Malaysia and Spain in the quarterfinal match on January 24 in Bhubaneswar. Govers struck in the fourth, 15th,

19th and 20th minutes as the rampaging Australians led 7-1 at half time. His first and fourth strikes were field goals while the second one was from a penalty corner and the third from the penalty spot. Tom Craig (10th), Jake Harvie (22nd), Daniel Beale (28th), Jeremy Hayward (32nd) and Tim Brand (47th) were the other Australian goal getters at the Birsa Munda Stadium.

Ntuli Nqobile (8th) and Kok Tevin (58th) were the scorers -- both field goals

In another Pool A match, Argentina and France scored a goal each in the final minute to play out a 5-5 draw in a dramatic contest. Argentina finished second in the pool with five points from three matches -- one win and two draws -while France ended at third with four points -- one win, one draw and one loss.

Argentina will play the third place team in Pool B in their crossover match on January 22 in Bhubaneswar while France will take on the second place team in Pool B the next day. Netherlands and England also booked direct quarterfinal berths after topping Pool C and Pool D respectively on Thursday.

The agitating wrestlers on Friday reached out to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), demanding formation of an enquiry committee to probe the allegations of sexual harassment against Singh, a day after threatening to lodge multiple FIRs against the WFI chief.

However, Singh has stuck to his stand to not relinquish the post.

“The protest by wrestlers against me is the dharna of Shaheen Bagh,” Singh, who is also a sixthtime Lok Sabha MP from UP’s Kaisarganj constituency, told reporters in his native place here.

Singh also termed the p rotest in Delhi’s Jantar

Mantar an attack on BJP and orchestrated by the Congress party.

Earlier speaking to a TV channel, he had said, “The protesting players have become a toy in the hands of Congress and Deepinder Hooda. This type of conspiracy was done against me by the Congress almost three decades ago. Once again the conspiracy has been repeated.

“I had earlier said that there was a conspiracy, and big powers are behind it. Now those forces are coming out in the open.”

He added, “The picture becomes more clear with the tweets and statements by Congress general secretary

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Deepinder Hooda. This attack is not only on me, but on the Bharatiya Janata Party through me,” Singh had said.

Protesting wrestlers threaten legal action: Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Bajrang Punia on Friday addressed the media in a press conference held by protesting wrestlers here at Jantar Mantar and said that if needed, they “will take the legal route” to get their demands fulfilled.

Punia said, they “have only one demand which is to dissolve the federation” adding that the protesting wrestlers will go back to their homes if their demands are

fulfilled by the government.

“Still, many players are scared that there are many tournaments ahead, and what will happen to them. So, we have cancelled them. Hopefully, this information will reach to the young athletes through media,” Punia added.

He further said, like the WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan said that he will hang himself if the allegations against him are to be proven then “we hope that day will come soon.”

Star wrestler Vinesh Phogat alleged that the WFI President has been sexually harassing female wrestlers.

Punia also brushed aside rumours of the in -

volvement of political parties and businessmen in the protest, saying that “Any person can give it the name of casteism or point at political involvement, anyone can say anything, we are just the athletes here. You can go through our phone records or have a CID investigation, I have made it clear that there is no involvement of any politicians in the protest.”

IOA forms committee to probe charges: The Indian Olympic Association on Friday formed a sevenmember committee, headed by M C Mary Kom, to probe the allegations of sexual harassment against Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh by top grapplers.

Besides legendary boxer Mary Kom and wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt, the panel includes archer Dola Banerjee and Indian Weightlifting Federation of India (IWLF) president Sahdev Yadav. The committee also has two advocates -- Talish Ray and Shlok Chandra -- besides former shuttler Alaknanda Ashok, who is its vice chairperson. The decision was taken during the IOA’s emergency executive council meeting.

Korda stuns Medvedev after sun shines on Tsitsipas, Swiatek; Coco, Azarenka win

M ELBOURNE, JAN 20

(AGENCIES): Stefanos

Tsitsipas and Iga Swiatek dazzled in bright sunshine to make short work of their third-round opponents on Friday as some normalcy returned to the Australian Open after scheduling woes, wild weather, upsets and late finishes.

That sense of normality was shattered in the cool of the late evening, however, when American Sebastian Korda stunned former world number one Daniil Medvedev 7-6(7) 6-3 7-6(4) for the biggest win of his young career. The 22-year-old, son of 1998 Australian Open champion Petr, unleashed an all-court assault on the Russian 2021 U.S. Open champion, hammering 50 winners and making regular charges to the net.

“Probably one of the better matches I’ve played in my career,” said an elated Korda. “Just stuck with the game plan, kept going after it. I think positive mentally throughout it. No matter what happened, kept pushing forward.”

Third seed Tsitsipas, the top surviving seed in the men’s draw, beat Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor 6-2 7-6(5) 6-3 and then waxed lyrical

on the clement conditions after hours of tennis were lost this week to extreme heat and rain.

Tsitsipas has still not dropped a set in the tournament as he chases his maiden Grand Slam, with his chances boosted by the exits of holder Rafa Nadal and second seed Casper Ruud and an injury cloud hanging over favourite Novak Djokovic.

The departure of Medvedev, the losing finalist for the last two years at Melbourne Park, further opened up the draw.

Women’s favourite

Swiatek was even more dominant in her 6-0 6-1 victory over Cristina Bucsa as she took another step towards adding a first Australian Open title to the French and U.S. Open crowns she won last year.

Up next for Swiatek is Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, who battled past last year’s Melbourne Park runner-up Danielle Collins 6-2 5-7 6-2.

It was a bad start to the day for the American women but in-form Jessica Pegula, the third seed, soon swatted aside Marta Kostyuk 6-0 6-2 and seventh

seed Coco Gauff dismissed compatriot Bernarda Pera 6-3 6-2.

Madison Keys looked like continuing her unbeaten start to the season when she took the first set against Victoria Azarenka only for the 2012 and 2013 Australian Open champion to rally for a 1-6 6-2 6-1 upset of the 10th seed.

Azarenka will next play world number 87 Zhu Lin of China, who stunned Greek sixth seed Maria Sakkari 7-6(3) 1-6 6-4 in the final match of the day.

No American man has captured a Grand Slam

Indian team fined for slow over rate

RAIPUR, JAN 20 (PTI): The Indian team has been fined 60 per cent of its match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first ODI in Hyderabad.

singles title since Andy Roddick at the 2003 U.S. Open, but the country’s hopes had been raised after eight men made the third round.

Nadal’s unseeded conqueror Mackenzie McDonald was unable to continue his run, however, as he fell 7-6(6) 6-3 6-2 to Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka.

Frances Tiafoe and his eye-catching outfit also departed 6-3 6-4 3-6 7-6(9) at the hands of Russian Karen Khachanov in a meeting of the losing semi-finalists at last year’s U.S. Open.

Organisers were grateful for the swift early vic-

tories after being forced to defend their scheduling following Andy Murray’s five-set victory over Thanasi Kokkinakis, which concluded at just after 4.05 a.m on Friday morning.

Murray described the late finish as a “joke” but tournament director Craig Tiley, who had been battling to get the schedule back on track after the weather disruptions, ruled out immediate changes.

Although none matched the six hours that Murray took to triumph in the wee hours, there were plenty of lengthy men’s

KDCA starts cricket coaching camp

matches for the fans to enjoy.

Italian Jannik Sinner came from two sets down to beat Marton Fucsovics 4-6 4-6 6-1 6-2 6-0, while Czech Jiri Lehecka took five sets to upset British 11th seed Cameron Norrie 6-7 6-3 3-6 6-1 6-4.

Sixth seed Felix Auger Aliassime also advanced with a 6-1 3-6 6-1 6-4 win over Francisco Cerundolo but his fellow Canadian Denis Shapovalov came up short in a stirring comeback against 10th seed Hubert Hurkacz and bowed out 7-6(3) 6-4 1-6 4-6 6-3.

Murray wins 5-hr45-minute epic against Kokkinakis: Andy Murray just wanted to go to the bathroom. It was 3 a.m., he’d already been playing his Australian Open secondround match against Thanasi Kokkinakis for more than 4 1/2 hours — they would carry on for another set across more than another hour — and Murray was hoping to be allowed to head to the locker room for a quick break. Rules are rules, though, and Murray already had left the court twice, so chair umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore wouldn’t budge, prompting this rebuke from the three-time Grand Slam champion: “It’s a joke. And you know it, as well.”

Ah, the perils of playing all night, something that occurs occasionally in tennis, more than in other professional sports. It all left the 35-year-old Murray angry and wondering aloud after 4:05 a.m. Friday — when he finally, mercifully, finished off the 4-6, 6-7 (4), 7-6 (5), 6-3, 7-5 victory over Kokkinakis following 5 hours, 45 minutes of clashing skills and wills at Margaret Court Arena — why this sort of “farce,” as he termed it, needs to occur at all.

NEW DELHI, JAN 20

(PTI): Two-time world champions Viktor Axelsen and Akane Yamaguchi stayed in contention for second successive titles after progressing to the semifinals of the men’s singles and women’s singles competitions, respectively, at the Yonex-Sunrise India Open here on Friday.

Axelsen, the reigning Olympic champion, advanced to the final four after his opponent Rasmus Gemke suffered a leg injury midway through the opening game and had to be taken off the court in a wheelchair. World No. 1 Yamaguchi, however, had to toil hard to get across three-time world champion and Rio gold medallist Carolina Marin of Spain

21-17 14-21 21-19 in the day’s first match at the IG stadium here.

World No. 20 Gemke had knocked out defending champion and home favourite Lakshya Sen on Thursday but his winning run came to an abrupt end after he seemed to have lost his footing and fell awkwardly to his right while attempting a return. He was then lagging 8-16 against Axelsen.

The 26-year-old from Denmark lay motionless even as compatriot Axelsen rushed to him. He was taken off the court in a wheelchair.

Axelsen will now face either fourth seed Jonatan Christie of Indonesia or fifth seed Chou Tien Chen of Chinese Taipei.

In other results, Olym-

pic bronze medallist Anthony Sinisuka Ginting survived a scare from China’s Liu Shi Feng before prevailing 21-11 17-21 21-18 in another quarter-final clash.

Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn then dispatched 2021 world champion Loh Kean Yew 21-12 21-17 to set up a clash with Ginting.

In women’s singles, Olympic champion Chen Yu Fei pulled out due to an illness, handing a walkover to Thailand’s Supanida Katethong, who had defeated India’s PV Sindhu in the opening round. The India Open runners-up will face Yamaguchi next. China’s He Bing Jiao beat USA’s Beiwen Zhang 21-13 21-19 and will face Korea’s second seed An Se Young in the semifinals.

Javagal Srinath of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after India were ruled to be three overs short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration for Wednesday’s series opener.

“In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time,” the ICC said in a statement.

India captain Rohit Sharma pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing.

On-field umpires Anil Chaudhary and Nitin Menon, third umpire K N Ananthapadmanabhan and fourth umpire Jayaraman Madanagopal levelled the charge.

KOHIMA, JAN 20 (NPN): Kohima District Cricket Association (KDCA) began cricket coaching camp for U-14 and U- 19 players under the supervision of Dziesevotuo John Belho. The camp is being held near Kohima Destitute & Orphanage Home, T. Khel model vil-

lage.

The sessions start by noon till 4pm daily while fitness training starts at 7-9am except on Sundays. The organisers of the camp have informed that interested players could join by registering their names with Kikrusetuo Sekhose at 81189 25708.

Compares wrestlers’ protest with Shaheen Bagh stir

Australia’s Blake Govers scores a goal during FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2023 match Friday. (PTI)

Akane Yamaguchi

Viktor Axelsen

Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia and others during protest at Jantar Mantar Friday. (PTI)

Brij Bhushan arrives in Gonda district, Friday. (PTI)

Sebastian Korda

Stefanos Tsitsipas

Iga Swiatek

Victoria Azarenka

Coco Gauff