24 March 2023

Nagaland Post

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Anger at Macron mounts as French unions hold new protests

INTERNATIONAL, PAGE 9

Rahul Gandhi convicted in defamation case Every Naga a stakeholder for securing Naga solution: Rio

SURAT/NEW DELHI, MAR 23 (PTI): Congress

leader Rahul Gandhi was on Thursday sentenced to two years in jail by a Surat court in a 2019 criminal defamation case over his “Modi surname” remark, in a setback to the Lok Sabha MP who faces the risk of disqualification.

The court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat HH Varma, which held 52-year-old Gandhi guilty under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 and 500, also granted him bail and suspended the sentence for 30 days to allow him to appeal in a higher court. Gandhi can escape immediate disqualification as a member of parliament if the appellate court suspends the conviction as well as the two-year jail term.

Gandhi could have limited his speech to Prime

CM tables two Bills in NLA

KOHIMA/DIMAPUR, MAR 23 (NPN/PTI): On the third day of the ongoing 14 Nagaland Legislative Assembly session, chief minister Neiphiu Rio introduced two bills-- the Nagaland Goods and Services Tax (Sixth Amendment)

Bill, 2022 and the Nagaland Fire & Emergency Services Bill (NF&ESB), 2021. The NF&ESB was moved in the house seeking to regulate and operate fire and life safety measures in the state. The Nagaland Goods and Services Tax (Sixth Amendment) Bill was introduced to make the law in sync with the central legislation. As the House agreed to introduce the two Bills, NLA speaker Sharingain Longkumer said that consideration and passing of the bills would be taken up on March 27.

Continued rainfall in Nagaland likely

DIMAPUR, MAR 23 (NPN): Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) has informed that Nagaland would experience light to heavy rainfall in the coming days.

NSDMA joint chief executive officer Johnny Ruangmei stated that there could be partly cloudy moderate rain during March 26 & 27, 2023 all over the state.

However, thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds was very likely to occur in certain pockets in Peren, Dimapur, Kohima, Wokha, Mokokchung, Mon and Longleng during this period.

Minister Narendra Modi, Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, Mehul Choksi, and Anil Ambani, but he “intentionally” made a statement that hurt individuals carrying the Modi surname, and thereby committed criminal defamation, the court said in its 168-page order. Gandhi was present in the court when the verdict was pronounced.

Senior Congress leaders went into a huddle at its chief Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence in Delhi in the evening to discuss the future strategy and the political fallout for the party in the wake of the verdict. Sources said a petition to challenge the order is being prepared and will be filed in a District and Sessions court.

In its order, the court noted that the seriousness of the accused’s crime increased because a speech delivered by a member of parliament has a “very wide impact on the public.”

“And if the accused is given less punishment, then it sends a wrong message to the public and the purpose of defamation is not fulfilled and anybody will easily slander someone.”

The defamation case was filed against Gandhi for his alleged remarks “How come all the thieves have Modi as the common surname?” on a complaint lodged by BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi.

According to the Representation of the People Act, a person sentenced to imprisonment of two years or more shall be disqualified “from the date of such conviction” and remain

disqualified for another six years after serving time.

Sources said after going through the judgment, the Lok Sabha Secretariat will take a call on issuing a notification announcing a vacancy in the lower house.

Parliamentary Affairs minister Pralhad Joshi said legal experts will examine the verdict and only after that the government will take a decision on the next step. As opposition parties, notably the AAP, as well as the DMK and the JMM rallied behind Gandhi, Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi dubbed the verdict as “infirm, erroneous and an unsustainable” that will be immediately challenged in a higher court.

“We believe that this is full of errors and legally unsustainable conclusions,” he told reporters in Delhi.

(Read more on p-5)

LS passes `45 lakh cr Budget without debate

NEW DELHI, MAR 23 (PTI): Lok Sabha on Thursday approved the Union Budget envisaging an expenditure of around Rs 45 lakh crore for the fiscal year starting April 1 without any discussion, as the Opposition continued to create ruckus over demand for a JPC probe into allegations against the Adani Group.

The Lower House of Parliament took up the Demands for Grants and Appropriation Bills after two adjournments as the ruling and Opposition MPs engaged in a matching duet over demands for an apology by Rahul Gandhi and the Adani issue. Most of

the second leg of the Budget Session has been washed out due to the protest by both sides and it was one of the rare occasions when the Budget was passed without any discussion.

Soon after the Lok Sabha reassembled at 6 pm after two adjournments, Speaker Om Birla put the Opposition’s cut motion or amendments to the government spending plan to vote which was rejected by voice vote.

This was followed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman moving the demands for grants for 2023-24 and relevant Appropriation Bills for discussion and vot-

ing. Birla applied guillotine and put demands for grants of all ministries for voting.

The demands were passed as the Opposition MPs trooped into the Well of the House shouting slogans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during the passage of Budget for 2023-24.

The entire exercise was over in 12 minutes completing two-third of the parliamentary approval for the Budget for 2023-24.

The Finance Bill 2023, which contains tax proposals that Sitharaman had moved while presenting the Budget on February 1, will now be taken up by the Lok

ULB polls: NCD for consultative meet

DIMAPUR, MAR 23

(NPN): Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) has appealed to the state government to convene a consultative meeting inviting all stakeholders and settle the issue once and for all so as to hold elections to the urban local bodies in time as notified.

NCD president Etsungmomo Kikon, vice president Holuto Aye and general secretary LK Anal Peter affirmed support to the resolutions adopted by Dimapur Urban Council Chairman Federation, Association of Kohima Municipal Ward Panchayat, All Ward Union Mokokchung Town and town councils of various

districts on March 21 on the amendment of Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001.

NCD said that the three bodies have already submitted a representation to the state government demanding review of NMA 2001, which it maintained was the demand and the voice of the Nagas.

However, NCD stated that in spite of sincere attempts made by various local and tribal bodies “to protect and safeguard the rights of the Nagas’ as enshrined in Article 371(A), the issue of amendment of NMA 2001 with regard to tax on land and buildings had not been resolved.

NCD cautioned that the issue was now “becoming very sensitive and emotional which may reoccur situations as in the past.”

JCCconvenesmeet

Joint Co-ordination Committee (JCC) on ULB has convened an emergency meeting at NCD conference hall on March 25 at 2 pm with the Dimapur-based tribal hohos, union and organizations along with NCD, DUCCF and GB Union Dimapur to discuss on ULB issue. All JCC executive members and hohos/union/organization president and secretary have been requested to attend the crucial meeting.

Sabha possibly on Friday.

All the budget-related bills will be transmitted to Rajya Sabha, which cannot make any changes but only return them to the Lok Sabha after discussion as they are classified as ‘money bills’ requiring approval of the Lower House only.

The current Parliament session is scheduled to end on April 6. There is speculation that the duration of the session may be curtailed after completion of the budgetary exercise.

Unlike the past, the Lok Sabha this time did not discuss the Demands for Grants of the identified ministries.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAR 23

(NPN): N agaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio reiterated that the Naga political issue was not the private property or domain of any party, organisation or individual and that every Naga was a direct stakeholder in the quest for genuine peace and an honourable solution. He also informed the house that the BJP high command welcomed the support extended to the PDA-II government as the coming together of all parties including independents would help in reaching higher levels of development, progress and achieving early solution to the Naga political issue. Rio said this while reacting to the speech made earlier by NPF legislator Azo Neinu who was speaking on the motion of thanks to governor’s address on the third day of the first session of 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Thursday.

Azo had earlier claimed, that his party (NPF) has been championing the Naga political issue. Rio in response said that to claim that only one party was the champion of Naga political issue was totally unreasonable and far from the reality in the present situation. He reminded the House that every Naga family across all Naga-inhabited areas had made sacrifices and contributed to the Nag movement over generations. He pointed out that the movement had reached thus far due to contributions of all sections of the people.

Rio repeated that since political negotiations were ongoing at the highest level,

any party trying to claim to be the sole champion for Naga issue was unacceptable and disrespectful to all Nagas across generations.

He said the contribution and sacrifices of past leaders and political parties were acknowledged and not denied, but for anyone to claim that oly one party had made contribution and was the only champion was unreasonable. “Let us not make political rhetoric and play to galleries, but rather let us be practical, realistic and honest and work collectively,” Rio exhorted the members, adding that the right message of oneness should be sent out so that other sections also took the lead and forged unity.

He cautioned that to say that only one party was the champion would create mistrust, disunity and would be ridiculed by the public, while urging everyone not to undermine the wisdom of citizens.

Rio also slammed Azo for alleging that the huge turnout of electorate and their full participation in the recently concluded assembly election, was due to use of money power. He advised Azo to be cautious while making any statement.

He reminded elected members not to undermine

the mandate of the people since the electorate have spoken through the mandate. However, to say that money power alone was the determining factor was disrespectful to the citizens, including the voters who had “voted for you also”, he told Azo.

He urged all MLAs not to undermine the wisdom and intelligence of people, but rather self-introspect and try to understand the dynamics of electoral results.

“Let us not make blanket statements that paint our State and our citizens in poor light,” Rio said as he appealed to members to show respect towards one another and if they felt humbled for being re-elected, then they should respect the mandate of the masses.

BJP readily accepted all-party govt: To the statement by Azo about the status of the letter of support extended to the ruling coalition, Rio said he welcomed the support extended to his government by NPF and all the parties, including the Independents.

He disclosed that he spoken to BJP high command and it had agreed “heartily” to support his government on the matter and exuded confidence that coming together of all political parties in support

Debate on motion of thanks to Gov’s address

Correspondent KOHIMA, MAR 23 (NPN): Several members took part in the debate on motion of thanks to the Governor’s address on the third day of the first session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly.

Initiating the discussion on the motion of thanks to the governor’s address, NPF legislator Azo Nienu highlighted the need to bring out strong policies to deal with impending problems, including illegal immigrants and Inner Line Permit (ILP). He cautioned that at the current trend of illegal immigrants flocking into Chü-

moukedima, Dimapur and surrounding areas, Nagaland was soon going to become the next Tripura.

On Naga political issue, Azo said he was ashamed of bringing up this issue every time and suggested that a joint legislators’ forum be constituted to pursue the Naga issue. He insisted that the Naga issue should be brought to a logical conclusion within a year’s time and legislators should vacate their seats to make way for an interim government to take over if an acceptable, honourable and inclusive agreement was arrived at.

Azo also accused the Home department of not

CNTC, Lotha Hoho demand rectification of NMA 2001

DIMAPUR, MAR 23

(NPN): Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) and Lotha Hoho have asked the government to resolve/rectify the Nagaland Municipal Act (NMA) 2001.

In a press release, CNTC joint secretary (general) C Onen Walling said the council resolved that until the present NMA 2001 articles and provisions, which infringed Article 371(A), were duly re-amended or rectified, the council “will not compromise with the said Act.”

It said that the resolution was adopted at CNTC executive meeting held at Tourist Lodge, Dimapur on

March 17, 2023.

The meeting, which deliberated on ULB election issue, also resolved that CNTC was not satisfied with the NMA 2001, and reamendment done in 2016.

Regarding ULB election, CNTC said that three of Apex Hohos heads—Ao Senden president, Lotha Hoho chairman and Sumu Hoho president—have clearly deliberated their respective stand on the issue. Meanwhile, the meeting, which also discussed fixation of date for forthcoming CNTC conference, resolved to authorize CNTC office bearers and Ao Senden (conference host) to

work out the date and conference programme after confirmation of ULB election issue.

CNTC also reminded all three hohos to send members of new team to CNTC executives on or before March 31, 2023.

LOTHA HOHO: Lotha Hoho at a meeting with its frontal organisations on March 23, 2023 has resolved to demand “rewriting” the Nagaland Municipal Act (NMA) 2001 before conducting any ULB election.

In a press release, LH chairman Er. Mhondamo Ovung and general secretary S Abenthung Ngullie sought to clarify that Lotha public

were neither against any ULB election nor against payment of relevant tax.

Pointing out that Article 371(A) does not explicitly say anything on Women Reservation, LH has, however, said that among the various provisions it clearly states to safeguard the “(i) Religious or Social practices of the Nagas” and “(ii) Naga Customary laws and Procedures” etc. Therefore, the hoho said that Women Reservation clearly infringes on the provisions of Article 371A (1) (a) (ii) and (iii).

However, LH said that with changing times, the Consensus decision of the Nagas could be taken on

Women Reservation, if it was for the common good of the Nagas.

The hoho said it was also aware that without tax payment by the people, no government can run or survive. Therefore, LH said that the tax, which was relevant and feasible to the reality of Nagas of Nagaland, could be worked out. “Hence the provisions on Taxation, in the existing Municipal Act 2001, are to be rectified in such ways that the Mode of taxation is within the ambit and circumstances of Nagaland under the constitutional provisions for the Nagas,” LH stated.

doing any policing work because most of the State’s forces were deployed in static and VIP duties.

He said even when principal secretary, commissioner & secretary, etc, were not entitled to personal bodyguards, some party workers were roaming around with such guards.

He strongly recommended that this culture should be discontinued and the police should be left to do their assigned job.He said out of the 26,000 police personnel, 19,000 were armed.

Although there were times in the past when armed police were needed for law and order, he noted

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that times had since changed and therefore there should be restructuring and reorganising of the force with more focus on cybercrime, forensics, etc.

He also suggested Home minister Patton to champion the cause of making all new appointments through open recruitment.

Joining the discussion, NPF legislator Achumbemo Kikon highlighted the mananimal conflict in areas under his 40 Bhandari constituency. He called for resolving the issue with some long-term policies in order to prevent such cases from recurring again.

clarify on March 23 incident

DIMAPUR, MAR 23

(NPN): Assam Rifles have clarified on the incident that occurred near NSCN (Khango) office area at Thilixu on March 23, 2023.

In a press statement, PRO (Defence) stated that after receiving inputs regarding shifting of NSCN (Khango) cadres from ceasefire office Thilixu Block I to Block V, the Assam Rifle with police personnel established vehicle check post near NSCN (Khango) office area in order to prevent inter factional clashes and to ensure the security of the civil population. PRO stated that at

around 12:30 pm, the check post intercepted a passenger vehicle that tried to escape and entered a Church Compound. PRO said that one “brig.” Phueka with two cadres was found in the vehicle.

Later, PRO said Chümoukedima police arrested “brig.” Phueka, but as the crowd was gathering in the area and he was later released.

PRO stated that “incidentally” an FIR has already been registered by police in Diphupar PS against “brig.” Phueka who escaped from a vehicle check post on March 4, 2023.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrives at Surat District Court for hearing in Surat, Thursday. (PTI)

The third day of the first session of the 14th NLA in progress at NLA Secretariat, Kohima on Thursday. (DIPR)

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STATE 2 NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, MARcH 24, 2023

DoS&WC celebrates ‘World Meteorological Day’

DIMAPUR: Department of Soil & Water Conservation (DoS&WC) celebrated “World Meteorological Day” Thursday under the theme, “The Future of Weather, Climate, and Water across Generations,” at Directorate Conference Hall.

A press release by the department informed that director DoS&WC, S. K. Hekshe highlighted the importance of meteorological and hydrological services for the safety and well-being of society.

He said that “World Meteorological Day” reminds the people of changing climate and educates the public on the important happenings in meteorology, such as global warming and the increased frequency of natural disasters. Hekshe forewarned that, weather, climate and water cycle would be different in coming years, and added that the weather,

DIMAPUR: Host of leaders, organisations, political parties and others have mourned the passing of former minister, YM Yollow Konyak on March 22 after prolonged illness.

Dy. CM TR: In a condolence note to Mrs. Minching Konyak and children, deputy chief minister, T.R. Zeliang said he was deeply pained and grieved at the demise of YM Yollow Konyak. Zeliang described late Yollow as a man of true grit and courage who stood firm and decisive in his ways, who stood by him through thick and thin and was as much a brother and friend to him. He added that the memories left by Yollow would always be cherished and will be dear to his heart.

In his demise, Zeliang said the people of Wakching and Konyaks in particular and Nagas in general have lost a great soul. During this time of sorrow and pain, Zeliang along with his family extended deepest condolences to the bereaved

Director, S.K. Hekshe releasing “Meteorological Report of Nagaland 2022,” at Directorate Conference Hall. climate and hydrological services would immensely help the people to tackle the associated challenges and seize the opportunity.

In commemoration of the “World Meteorologi -

cal Day,” the director also released a booklet titled, “Meteorological report of Nagaland 2022”, which was published by the Soil Survey and Land Use Planning Wing (SSLUP) of the

department. Chairperson of the programme, joint director and state nodal officer for meteorology, Rongsenlemzung stated that the ultimate goal of agriculture meteorology was

to extend and fully deploy knowledge of atmospheric related processes to optimise agriculture production and hence increase profitability, decrease risk and feed an expand global population.

NBCC hosts ‘youth board meet & skill up training’

DIMAPUR: A two-day “Youth board meeting and skill up training” was hosted by Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) youth department on March 22-23 at NBCC Headquaters, Kohima.

A press release by NBCC youth department informed that the event was attended by youth leaders, who were enlightened on various topics to disciple and build up young people through sports and Bible teachings.

During the two-day event, “Sport and Scripture Engagement,” was launched by NBCC general secretary, Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho under the leadership of youth secretary, Rev. N. Suhuto Chishi and convener, Dr. Viposa Kiso. The leaders at the event were enlightened by speakers on various

NBCC general secretary, Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho launching the “Sport and Scripture Engagement”.

topics – OTS principal, Dr. Joshua Lorin spoke on “Baptist Distinctive”, founder and CEO of Entrepreneurs Associates, Neichute Doulo spoke on “Trees for Wealth” while assistant professor from Nagaland University, Dr. Lovika P. Shikhu, spoke on the impact of mobile game addiction and social media among young people.

Condolence messages on demise of Yollow Konyak

family and all the near and dear ones. He prayed that the Almighty God would give them strength and courage during this time of grief and sorrow. Zeliang also prayed that his brother rest in enteral peace.

NDPP president: Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) president, Chingwang Konyak has expressed sadness at the untimely demise of former minister, Y. M. Yollow Konyak. In a condolence message, Konyak described late Yollow as a straightforward person and that as a promising leader his demise was a great loss to not only the Konyak tribe but the Nagas as whole. Konyak said late Yolllow’s role and contributions as a public leader and legislator shall be fondly remembered and cherished. Konyak, on behalf of the rank and file of the NDPP, has conveyed sincere condolence to the members of the bereaved family. He prayed that the almighty God granted them

RemembeRing Loving Husband and deaR dad one Year anniversary of his death

comfort and solace in this time of immense sorrow and pain, and eternal peace to the departed soul.

ENPO: Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) has expressed deepest sorrow at the sudden demise of its leader, Y.M. Yollow Konyak. In a condolence message, ENPO said the demise was an immeasurable loss for the people of Eastern Nagaland in general and the Konyaks in particular. ENPO said late Yollow was a man of integrity and simplicity who always fought fearlessly for the love and concern for his people. With his passing away, ENPO said it shall fondly remember his sacrifices and contributions he had made for the welfare of his people. Further, ENPO has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

Minister Metsubo: Minister, Rural Development (RD) Metsubo Jamir has expressed deep shock

Ack

and sadness at the sudden demise of his friend and colleague, Yollow Konyak. In a condolence message, Metsubo said Yollow was not only a good friend but a colleague, politically and in the government service, where they served in RD department for more than 15 years together. Metsubo said late Yollow’s demise was a great loss to not only his family and his tribe but to the Naga family as a whole. Metsubo also bade his final farewell to his close and dear friend and prayed that the almighty would grant strength to overcome the tragic loss, and solace and comfort to the near and dear ones. He also prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.

Advisor, Noke: Advisor, department of social welfare, Noke Wangnao has expressed profound sorrow at the demise of YM Yollow, a public leader of Konyak community and the state.

In a condolence message, Noke said late Yollow was a dedicated individual whose

commitment to progress the community knew no bounds. He described late Yollow as a truthful, principles, straight forward and fine gentleman. Noke said the passing away of late Yollow was a great loss to the Konyak community in particular and Nagas as a whole. Further, Noke has conveyed condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

NGBF: Nagaland Gaon Bura Federation (NGBF) has expressed pain and shock over the demise of late YM Yollow Konyak. In a condolence message, NGBF said late Yollow was a man of strong personality

and down to earth leader. In his demise, NGBF said Nagas have lost a leader whose absence would be deeply felt by one and all. The federation has conveyed its deepest sorrow and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, and prayed that the departed soul would rest till the Saviour comes.

DENSU: Dimapur Eastern Nagaland Students’ Union (DENSU) has expressed deep pain and grievances over the sudden demise of late YM Yollow Konyak. In a condolence message, DENSU said late Yollow’s demise was a great loss to the eastern family. DENSU said late Yollow had contributed his service

to the eastern people in particular and Nagas at large to the best of his competence. Further, the union has deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed

At the event, Wichampau Nchang gave a response on Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho’s book on “A Simple Guide to Dealing with Cult & Heresy.” Rev. Suhuto Chishi reiterated the youth department’s commitment to nurturing and empowering young people to become better Christians and citizens.

that the almighty God provides solace to the family members in this difficult time, and for the departed soul to find eternal peace in the presence of God.

acknowLedgement

We the bereaved family of Lt. Tumchobeni Ngullie would like to express our profound gratitude and deepest appreciation for everyone’s sympathy as we mourn her loss. We were greatly comforted by all who have supported us through your prayers, emotionally, physically and financially. We convey our special thanks to:

1. Doctors and Nurses of Naga Hospital Kohima

2. Father Principal, Colleagues and Students of St. Josephs College Jakhama

3. Wokha Town Baptist Church

4. Wokha Town Yimkha Union

5. Yimkha Village Baptist Church

6. Friends Neighbors and Well Wishers

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Chophao Kithan

We think about you Always, We think about you still, You have never been forgotten, And you never will. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you will remain, To walk and guide us through our lives, Until we meet again.

May your soul rest in eternal peace.

Now and forever Your loving family.

wc-63/23

Born : 25.02.1958 Died : 17.03.2023

We, the bereaved family of Late ORENBONI LOTHA express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who came from far and near and stood by us physically, financially and through prayers at the sad demise of our beloved.

We regret our inability to thank each and everyone individually. May the good Lord bless each and every one of you abundantly.

DP-1261/23

BORN ON : 29/11/1950 – DIED ON : 11/03/2023

We, the family of Late M. Yojungliba Sangtam wishes to acknowledge the expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following the sudden demise of our beloved “Papa”.

We offer our heartfelt gratitude to all friends, neighbours and well-wishers who stood by us right from his illness till the time of his demise. Our gratitude also goes to all who attended his funeral and accompanied till the burial place.

We would also like to thank each and everyone who travelled long distances on our behalf. We are truly grateful and indebted to all who helped us in anyway, your contributions has made our loss more bearable. Please accept our acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. May God Bless you all. Beloved Wife, Children, Grand Children & Love Ones.

DP-1258/23

(1/1/1963 – 18/3/2023)

Words seem inadequate to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the neighbours, friends, well-wishers, SBI fraternity, organisations, medical fraternity Health City Hospital Guwahati, Community leaders and individuals who supported us morally, physically, financially, in prayer and shared our darkest moment during the loss of our beloved father Lt. Ramesh Hasnu who breathed his last on 18th March 2023.

Although we the bereaved family members could not thank each and every individuals through this column for the love and respect given to us, your concern towards us will be remembered forever.

We, however would like to convey our sincere thanks to:

1. Smt. Hekani Jakhalu, Hon’ble MLA 3 DMR-III A/C. Advisor Industries & Commerce, Govt. of Nagaland

2. Shri. Charlie Sekhose, Senior Vice President NDPP, Convenor CEB, I/C Dimapur Region.

3. Kachari Tribal Council Nagaland

4. Nagaland Garo Tribal Council.

5. Kuki INPI Nagaland.

6. Western Sumi Hoho

7. Dimasa Public Org. Nagaland

8. Mech Kachari Public Org. Nagaland

9. Association of Indigenous Minority Tribe of Nagaland.

10. Muslim Council Dimapur.

11. Dimapur District Citizen Forum.

12. Karbi Union Nagaland

13. Dimasa GBs’ Union Nagaland

14. Dimasa Women Welfare Society Nagaland.

15. Kachari Women Org. Nagaland

16. Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church LRC Fellowship.

17. General Council IV LRC Colony Dimapur.

18. Nagaland ATMA Staff Association.

19. ATMA Dimapur.

20. Dimasa Students’ Union Nagaland

21. Mech Kachari Students’ Union Dimapur

22. Dimasa Women Society Bamunpukhuri B.

23. Mech Kachari Women Union, Naharbari, Dimapur.

24. Halali Progressive Welfare Society, Haflong, Dima Hasao District.

25. SBI SC/ST Welfare Association North East Circle.

26. SBI Regional Business office Dimapur.

27. SBI SC/ST Employees Welfare Association Nagaland.

28. SBI Staff Association Dimapur Region.

29. Sibrai Bismai Bosong, Assam.

30. Darogajan Village Council Dimapur.

31. Er. Dhananjay Basumatary & Family.

32. Mr. Lun Tungnung & Family.

33. Can Youth.

We pray that the Almighty bless you all abundantly. May your service towards mankind be rewarded in your lives.

Loving Family Members & Relatives.

DP-1265/23

Db-388/23

NEXT POLL

Q:

Need to streamline education department: Dr. Kekhrie Yhome

the light of NEP 2020, the need for robust system of coordination within sister departments, and need for rationalization of schools into clusters for effective monitoring and supervision of activities.

The advisor also stated that comprehensive review exercise of school performance for the past 10 years would be carried out to assess the overall delivery and improvement of education.

Circuit court sitting of CAT

DIMAPUR: Department of Personnel & Administrative Reforms has informed that the Circuit Court of the Central Administrative Tribunal, Guwahati Bench is sitting in Court Room No. 4 of

the Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench on March 30-31. The learned Advocate/Parties appearing in person have been requested to note and extend cooperation and appear

before the Circuit Court of the CAT on the mentioned dates. Further, advocate/ party/litigants who are willing to file fresh application have been asked to do so during the Circuit Court.

DC Chumoukedima convenes meeting

DIMAPUR: Deputy Commissioner Chumoukedima has convened a meeting on March 24, 10 am at DC Dimapur office to discuss matters related to the ensuing G20 Summit in Nagaland. District Cultural Officer, District Tourism Officer, DPRO and District Horticulture Officer of Chumoukedima and joint director, NEZCC have been asked to attend the meeting.

DIMAPUR: Advisor, School Education an State Council of Educational Research and Training, Nagaland (SCERT), Dr. Kekhrie Yhome has stressed on the need to streamline the Department of School Education (DoSE), in the light of National Education Policy

(NEP) 2020.

A press release by DoSE informed that the advisor asserted this during a co-ordination and familiarization meeting with officials of school education, SCERT, Samagra Shiksha, Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) and Nagaland

Enhancing Classroom Teaching and Resources (NECTAR) project on March 22 at the Secretariate Conference Hall.

Appreciating the initiatives taken by the department, Dr. Yhome stressed on the need to streamline the department of school education in

He reassured the department officers that necessary decisive actions would be taken to strengthen the department and to bring about education solution in the state.

During the meeting, various activities, programmes and plans were presented by the department/organizations.

Governor pays tribute to martyrs on ‘Martyr’s Day’

DIMAPUR : Nagaland Governor, La Ganesan Thursday paid tribute to three revolutionaries, Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar, who were hanged by the British.

A press release by Raj Bhavan informed that the Governor along with officers and staff of Raj Bhavan observed “Martyr’s Day” or “Shaheen Diwas,” commemorating the martyrdom of the three young revolutionaries of India Independence movement.

In his short address, Governor Ganesan briefed the officers and staff on the significance of the day. He said on this day the country honours the three brave heroes who laid down their lives at young age for the

cause of the nation, thereby becoming an inspiration for many young men and women to fight for freedom.

In his speech, commissioner and secretary to governor, Wezope Kenye said the day was observed in remembrance and tribute

to the brave men who laid down their lives for the freedom of the country. He said their sacrifice was not was not in vain, as it ignited a spark of revolution and resistance among the people of India.

Kenye said the brave

men fought against injustice, inequality, and oppression, and in doing so, he said they become the epitome of courage and sacrifice.

He added that people should remember and pay homage to all the brave men and women who fought for freedom. Stating that “Shaheen Diwas” was not just a day of remembrance, he said this day was also of reaffirmation of people’s commitment to values and ideals that the freedom fighters stood for.

He also urged the gathering to take inspiration from their sacrifice and continue towards a better India, where every citizen was treated with dignity and respect, and justice and equality prevail.

Participants during the co-ordination and familiarization meeting on Wednesday.

Governor, La Ganesan paying tribute to martyrs.

Rahul Gandhi’s conviction setoff political slugfest

NEW DELHI, MAR 23

(PTI): Rahul Gandhi’s conviction in a 2019 criminal defamation case by a Surat court on Thursday triggered a political slugfest between the BJP and opposition parties, including AAP, which rallied behind the former Congress chief and accused the ruling party of “hatching a conspiracy to eliminate” its political opponents by prosecuting them.

The Congress claimed that the court verdict was “infirm, erroneous and unsustainable”, evoking a sharp reaction from the BJP which slammed it for its criticism of the order, asking whether the opposition party wants “complete freedom” for Gandhi to “abuse” others. The Congress also said that it would challenge the judgement in a higher court.

The court in Gujarat sentenced Gandhi to two years in the case filed against him over his “why all thieves have Modi surname” remarks. Gandhi, who was present in the

Every Naga a stakeholder for securing Naga solution: Rio

(From p-1) would help the State in reaching even higher levels of development, progress and an early solution to the Naga political issue.

He revealed that the letter of support was submitted to the governor and NLA secretariat for the records as well.

Rio said he desired that all the 60 MLAs come together for working in the interest of people and for an early solution of the Naga political issue and various other issues confronting the State.

Inhabitant Certificate and protecting the rights of indigenous people of the State, Rio disclosed that the government was in the process of taking several administrative and structural measures for strengthening the procedure for identification, scrutiny and issue of indigenous certificates.

Congress party workers stop a train in protest against the conviction of Rahul Gandhi, in Puducherry, Thursday. (PTI)

court when the verdict was pronounced, reacted later by quoting Mahatma Gandhi in a tweet in Hindi about truth and non-violence. “My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God, (and) non-violence is the means to get it. -- Mahatma Gandhi,’’ the Congress leader tweeted.

In a separate tweet, he paid tributes to freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their martyrdom day, say-

ing they have learnt to fight fearlessly for the country holding on to truth and courage from these brave sons of Mother India. With the court convicting the Congress leader and his disqualification from Lok Sabha becoming a possibility, party president Mallikarjun

Kharge alleged that the BJP-led government wants to get him removed from the Lower House of Parliament through disqualification as he speaks the truth and exposes it.

BJP’s communal agenda won’t work in Kerala, says CM Vijayan

KANNUR (KER), MAR

23 (PTI): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has asserted that the BJP’s polarisation agenda won’t work in the southern state, which has always opposed communalism tooth and nail.

Taking on the NDA government at the Centre, Vijayan claimed that it was silencing the voice of the opposition in Parliament.

The veteran Left leader was speaking at the A K G memorial programme at Perallassery near here on Wednesday.

Apparently referring to Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany, who made a statement recently

that his community can help the BJP if that party addresses the concerns of farmers, Vijayan said such “opportunists” do not represent the people of Kerala.

“The sangh parivar and its leaders should understand that the opinion of certain opportunists do not represent the mindset of people of Kerala. Kerala has always adopted a strong stand against communalism. Be it minority or the majority. Both pose a danger to society. So, Kerala is not a place where BJP can easily propagate their agenda,” the CM said. In the 2016 Assembly election, he said the BJP secured one seat for

the first time in the history of the state with the help of Congress. “BJP has played all sorts of games since its Jan Sangh period to win a seat in the Assembly. Finally, they got one in 2016. We all now know how they got it. Congress lost all its votes in that particular constituency and helped BJP defeat the Left candidate.”

The CM further said that his party has publicly announced that BJP’s account will be closed in the state in 2021 election and it happened.

Thanking Azo for highlighting the achievements and development activities of the State government, he commented that as people’s representatives they had to be always transparent and take the government activities to the masses so that they were aware of the government’s intent.

Mon Medical College: On the NPF MLA’s contention that the governor had missed Mon Medical College in his speech, Rio informed the House that primary works had started and major works would be carried out in 2023-24.

Illegal immigrants: On Azo’s suggestion to bring out strong policies to deal with impending problems, including illegal immigrants and Inner Line Permit (ILP), Rio informed the house that during his previous tenure, the government had paid due attention to the issue and that his government had always been taking steps to ensure that the State did not face any problem in this matter.

He said the government had moved to online mode of ILP, extended ILP regime to Dimapur that had always remained outside its purview and took various other administrative measures.

In order to completely curb the possibility of issue of fake Indigenous

Foothills Road: On the status of Foothill Road sought by NPF MLA Achumbemo Kikon and R&B minister G Kaito Aye, Rio asserted that besides shortening the distance to several places, it had the potential to immensely boost the local economy and assured that his government was making all necessary efforts for its early construction.

With regard to the exact length of Foothills Road, the chief minister mentioned that its total length would be 320 km, taking into account the already existing stretches of national highways falling on the route.

He mentioned that as the road alignment work was underway, the exact figure regarding length could vary slightly, adding that the road was being planned from Tizit to Khelma only.

New road projects: On BJP MLA Imkong L Imchen wanting to know about new road projects, Rio assured that projects would be taken up in the coming years under various schemes and programmes of the Central and State governments depending on the need and in public interest.

Increase in meat production: On meat production pointed out by G Kaito Aye, Rio claimed that the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service was aggressively supporting piggery, goatery and poultry under the National Livestock Mission (NLM) to meet the increasing demand for meat in the State through local progres-

sive entrepreneurs with the support from the Centre.

He hoped that it would be possible to meet the demand for meat in the State to a great extent within the next two to three years. Govt not directly involved in management of Vety College: On the status of Veterinary College, Jalukie raised by G Kaito Aye, Rio said the college was under the direct control and supervision of Central Agriculture University, Imphal. He clarified that the State government was not directly involved in management and other development matters of the college. However, he assured that the State government would always provide any help or support that the college might require for its further growth and development in the interest of people of the State KPA qualifies to introduce Engineering Degree Course: On the status of Khelhoshe Polytechnic Atoizu raised by G Kaito Aye, Rio said the institute was qualified and eligible to introduce engineering degree course after getting the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) accreditation.

He mentioned that land and other matters had been sorted out to the satisfaction of everyone, the DPR had already been submitted to All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and was being pursued. He hoped that its upgradewould take place soon.

In his concluding remarks on the motion of thanks to the governor’s address, Rio lauded all members of the House for participating in the discussion on the motion of thanks to the governor’s address moved by Tongpang Ozukum and seconded by H Tovihoto Awomi.

He remarked that the deliberation was positive and fruitful, and would go

a long way in improving the delivery mechanism of government departments.

He said even though he did not respond to each and every query, his government had taken all the points on a serious note and assured that all constructive suggestions would be followed up with sincerity.

He thanked Ganesan for addressing the first session of the new House, noting that the latter was a seasoned leader and a wellknown personality who had made positive contributions to public life in various capacities stretching across decades.

Rio also appreciated the electorate for reposing their faith in his government and giving a strong mandate to the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA). He said the overwhelming mandate had encouraged the ruling alliance to work with renewed vigour in the collective endeavour to serve the citizens of the State.

He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and all Central leaders who had participated in the Assembly election campaign and connected with citizens of Nagaland.

He termed the campaign as a movement that engaged with all sections of people in a dignified manner and ensured that a decorum was maintained, besides bringing the mainland closer to the Northeast.

Rio thanked Modi and Shah for attending the swearing-in ceremony of the PDA government. “It was a historic occasion as

it was for the first time that the Prime Minister of India had attended the swearinginceremony,” he remarked, pointing out that it showed the concern of the Central government towards Naga people. The chief minister also acknowledged Election Commission of India, State Election Department and all government agencies, including the administration and police, for ensuring a peaceful Assembly election.

He also commended civil society organisations, mass-based organisations, tribal hohos, church bodies, NGOs and all other stakeholders for making positive contributions towards a successful election process.

Further, he complimented the electorate for a high voting percentage 88.07%, which showed the world that Nagas believed in democracy and that the citizens continued to contribute towards the nation-building process by strengthening the foundations of democracy in the world’s largest democracy.

Noting that the House had 29 new members and 33 former legislators had failed to get re-elected, Rio pointed out that there was an underlying message in the verdict that the people wanteda positive change and performance.

He exuded confidence that members of the current House would make significant contribution to change the destiny of the people in a positive manner.

The House unanimously adopted the Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address.

DISTRICT

ST. JOHN c OLLEgE, DIMAPUR INFORMATION FOR REPEATERS

NU/ADMN/GEN-CA/2023-615

cORRIgENDUM

Dated: 22nd March 2023

In continuation of the earlier short tender notice No. NU/ADMN/GENCA/2023-5851 Dated: 22nd March 2023, partially rectified sealed tender bids are invited for supply of Instruments and equipment to Nagaland University, Lumami. Interested dealers/firms may download the tender details and documents from the University website: nagalanduniversity.ac.in

Dc -316/23

Sd/-

(Dr. Abemo) Registrar

Repeaters and backlog students of 2nd, 4th, 6th and (5th Supplementary) Semester of BA & B.Sc. are hereby informed to fill up the examination forms between 28th March to 5th April 2023, for the forth coming End Semester Examination 2023 which shall be conducted in month of May2023.

Documents required are:

Photo copy of (HSLC and Previous semester Admit card) and mark sheet (In original) of last examination with exam fee during office hour (9:00 am -1:00pm)

Note: No one will be entertained after the due date of filling Exam form. Administrator Db-386/23

Government of naGaland office of the General manaGer district industries centre Kiphire : naGaland

No.DIC/KPE/TRG-23/2019

Dated Kiphire, the 23rd March 2023 advertisement

Applications in plain paper along with Bio-data and the self attested copy of Educational Documents/Certificate is hereby invited from the bonafide local candidates having a minimum Educational qualification of Class-VIII pass and above to undergo 9th Months training on Cutting and Tailoring for the session 2023-24.

The last date for receive of application is 10-14-2023. Interview will be conducted on 13.04.2023 at 10:30 AM in the Office Chamber of General Manager, DIC Kiphire. Candidate should bring Educational/Testimonial Certificate in original at the time of interview.

Neither separate calling letter nor TA/DA will be given, however, the selected candidates will be given monthly stipend of Rs. 500/- per month.

The Training is purely for Self Employment and no guarantee for job or job placement training.

Dc-321/23

Decks clear for ULB polls

Nagaland Municipal Act(NMA) 2001 was passed in lieu of the decision to demarcate new municipal and town councils in the state. The first municipal and town council polls were held in 2004 under NMA 2001. However, in 2006 under pressure from women’s groups, the government then amended the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001 by inserting Section 23A to the Nagaland Municipal Act which made Part IX A operative. Holding of elections to the ULbs under Article 243T thus became mandatory as per the 74th Amendment.

Election to ULbs was to be held in 2010 but the clause on 33% women reservation came under onslaught from tribal organisations who believed the NMA would intrude into the domain of Naga customary laws and practices which are provided protection under Article 371(A) of the constitution of India. The next DAN-II government then took up the matter to the house and it subsequently resolved to adopt another resolution on September 22,2012, that revoked the earlier 2006 resolution which made Article 243T of Part IXA inoperative in Nagaland.

In April 2016, the Supreme court stepped in after admitting a special leave petition filed by NMA, challenging the constitutionality of a 2012 resolution by the Nagaland Assembly exempting the state from reservations. The women quota then swung to the other end when the ruling DAN-III government hurriedly convened a one-day session of the assembly on November 24,2016 and unanimously revoked by an ‘opposition-less’ government , the September 22,2012 resolution that made 33% women reservation inapplicable. when the ULb polls were notified in 2017, women’s group insisted that the ULb polls have to be held under Part IXA of the 74th Amendment which they say, supersedes even Article 371A of the constitution of India. After the turmoil in 2017, the ULb polls were declared null and void. To cap the issue before the assembly election in 2018, the DAN-III on December 15,2017 again did a 360⁰ turn when it unanimously revoked its earlier resolution of November 24,2016 that gave 33 per cent reservation for women in urban local bodies. Immediately after winning the 2018 election, the NDPP-bJP government announced the date of the ULb elections with 33% reservation for women even before the dust of the just concluded assembly election has settled. The main objection from various organisation of holding of ULb elections with 33% reservation for women in Nagaland is because it was seen to infringe upon Naga traditional and customary laws protected under Article 371(A) of the Indian constitution. The main argument against the NMA 2001 was on tax from land and building within jurisdiction of municipal and town councils. Various associations, unions and tribe bodies wanted deletion of the clause under section 120(1)(a) with regard to tax on land and building. The Municipal Affairs Department (MAD) responded by pointing out that through NMA(3rd Amendment) Act 2016, all references and operative provisions relating to tax on land and buildings, wherever they occur in the NMA 2001 shall be deemed to have been omitted. MAD also clarified that the demand of those who wanted to replace the word “omitted”with “deleted”was inconsistent with logic since both mean the same. This was also made clear by Adviser MAD Zhaleo Rio and later chief minister Neiphiu Rio on different occasions. Perhaps the government ought to run an extra mile to get all on board for a peaceful poll.

DailyDevotion

Am I Carnally Minded?

Where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal…?

—1 Corinthians 3:3

The natural man, or unbeliever, knows nothing about carnality. The desires of the flesh warring against the Spirit, and the Spirit warring against the flesh, which began at rebirth, are what produce carnality and the awareness of it. But Paul said, “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). In other words, carnality will disappear. Are you quarrelsome and easily upset over small things? Do you think that no one who is a Christian is ever like that? Paul said they are, and he connected these attitudes with carnality. Is there a truth in the Bible that instantly awakens a spirit of malice or resentment in you? If so, that is proof that you are still carnal. If the process of sanctification is continuing in your life, there will be no trace of that kind of spirit remaining. If the Spirit of God detects anything in you that is wrong, He doesn’t ask you to make it right; He only asks you to accept the light of truth, and then He will make it right. A child of the light will confess sin instantly and stand completely open before God. But a child of the darkness will say, “Oh, I can explain that.” When the light shines and the Spirit brings conviction of sin, be a child of the light. Confess your wrongdoing, and God will deal with it. If, however, you try to vindicate yourself, you prove yourself to be a child of the darkness. What is the proof that carnality has gone? Never deceive yourself; when carnality is gone you will know it— it is the most real thing you can imagine. And God will see to it that you have a number of opportunities to prove to yourself the miracle of His grace. The proof is in a very practical test. You will find yourself saying, “If this had happened before, I would have had the spirit of resentment!” And you will never cease to be the most amazed person on earth at what God has done for you on the inside.

Tuberculosis: its prevention and treatment WORLD TUBERCULOSIS DAY

What is Tuberculosis? Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is a disease that most commonly affects the lungs caused by a bacteria, called Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). It is transmitted through the air when someone who is infected with TB coughs, sneezes, shouts, or sings. During such times tiny droplets of saliva containing thousands of TB bacilli get floated in the air and once inhaled, the droplets push their way into the lungs, settling in tiny air sacs (alveoli).

TB is NOT spread through touch, clothes, blood, sperm, vaginal fluids, food or liquids, sharing utensils, dust, dirt, or vehicle fumes.

What is LTBI? “Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI) is defined as a state of persistent immune response to stimulation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens with no evidence of clinically manifest active TB.” This

means that anyone can be infected with TB but remain in the LTBI stage without getting sick from active TB. However, Latent TB infection can progress to active disease when the body becomes weak, for example from disease, malnutrition, immune suppression, or advanced age. In people living with HIV, without good HIV treatment, the immune system becomes compromised and thus the person becomes more vulnerable to the progression of LTBI into active TB. As a result, there is a huge number of people affected by both HIV and TB There is a difference between TB infection and TB disease. During the stage of LTBI, the immune system is successful in containing TB and preventing disease. The TB bacilli remain encased in a hard shell, called a tubercle. Active TB disease refers to the time when TB is no longer contained by the immune system and causes disease.

However, people can also progress directly to developing active disease without having a long latent period

What is Tuberculosis

Preventive Therapy or TPT?

LTBI is treatable through Tuberculosis prevention Treatment or TPT. It is a treatment for preventing tuberculosis. It includes the administration of one or more anti-tuberculosis medicines for a certain duration. This treatment is given to only those Household contacts who may have been exposed to the TB bacteria, and those who have low immunity due to existing conditions such as affected by HIV, diabetes, or silicosis, so as to prevent TB before it turns into a state of Disease thereby making people sick.

The World Health Organisation indicates that isoniazid is the most widely used TPT regimen in the world; this is sometimes referred to as IPT, or isoniazid preventive therapy.

Rifampicin and Rifapentine are the other two drugs that are important parts of TPT. When combined with isoniazid, rifampicin and rifapentine form so-called short-course TPT regimens that prevent TB in less time and with fewer side effects than the longer IPT regimen. Of these short-course regimens, the most commonly used is a 12-week regimen of rifapentineisoniazid called 3HP.

However, 3HP is still not widely available under the TB program in India.

In the absence of a broadly effective vaccine, preventive therapy is extremely important in TB prevention. Currently, WHO recommends preventive therapy in all: Childhood household contacts (under 5 years) of someone diagnosed with active TB disease, People with HIV as long as active TB disease has been ruled out The most common form of preventive therapy is Isoniazid Preventive

A personal voyage through the cracks and faults of Nagaland general election

Iwonder how honest can our democratic practice be if we still do proxy voting, how much of that taints the thousands of innocent’s votes?

We are all complicit in this 2023 Nagaland State General Elections, for all the sins we blame to one another. With every election money comes to mind - not the least during my Gen-Z generation, and this time - it was no exception. Some get money, and some get even more money. But, just like the voters, the election candidates are in a morally difficult position too, one had to do it anyhow, if every other candidates do it - money disbursement that is. It is a dilemma that is complex and deep. Then, do we take out the moral question of money, when we judged a candidate, if money prowess cannot be removed? What is the take of the candidate on proxy voting, because honestly, every party workers will do best to go to the extent of proxy voting for one’s own candidate and do we expect the candidate to not know all of this? Seems like an unfair question, because it is dire and helpless, especially, proxy voting.

As unholy as it is to say this, no matter the outcome, the 2023 Nagaland State General Elections is the best election our state has witnessed so far, and therefore delightfully approving with great enthusiasm, it must be fully appreciated by every electorate to express his/her joy and happiness for voluntarilly voting in his/her assembly constiuencies. Kudos to all of you, we should humbly pat ourselves on the shoulder. As the Christian majority state, the Nagaland Christian population has shown the country that we can achieve this election glory as secularly as possible, with the NDPP-BJP alliance, and more political parties coming onboard for the glorious adventure.

As proud and bliss as I am for the election results of our state democracy fight of 12 parties and it’s 183 candidates, my disappointment cannot be understated for the Indian National Congress (INC), as well as for the Rising People’s Party (RPP), even for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), for not daring to contest, and for this, is money to be blame alone? I overheard an old man saying money is the root of evil and as popular as that sounds - our heart is also to be blamed. So is our brain.

Like any winning candidates, now that Dr. Neisatuo Mero has become the MLA in my constituency, will he light his torch for long? Will his promise of the creation of Chakhesang Member Protection Welfare be fulfilled? I sincerely hoped for

his good health as he is willing to take no days off unless sick otherwise. The sensitive Naga political settlement is the need of the hour now, aside from ULB elections in May and the quitely disheartening poverty crisis, with the government data showing that number of humble Nagaland people living below national poverty line is at 73%, meaning 14 lakhs of Naga people are very poor, and growing unemployment rates at 25% last year, and again, what is even the minimum wage here in Nagaland, does it even exist?

From a first time voter to every mother, the thoughts on this election has had taken a toll on themselves, and possibly every voter. The church in Nagaland, i.e., Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) has maintained its position firmly by the NBCC CEM initiatives and its moral guidelines and aside from the aftermath of moral resignation request of Church workers for God knows what, the Church sure have cleansed after and have been much better now. Amazing to see that the common platform for the candidates had to be organized by the Church, and more amazing, is the fact that Chakesang Mothers Association (CMA) has taken the fullest, sincerest initiative to cause dry spells for all the alcohol lover in the constituency.

Then again, from witnessing drunk office bearers of a political party; to not being able to say anything by a CMA member to a drunk driver of alcoholic breath at a checkpoint; to hushing up from the ADC’s office of party worker miscreant put to, ‘Jail’; to being pounded hard by electorates from party office bearers asking for money everyday, to everything that is wrong in the eyes of Christian value society happening to this Naga tribe within Nagaland itself, is a lot to be said about our own Naga people. From my own admission, I have heard talks of proxy voting, sharing of proxy votes between political parties, heard of drunk polling officers on duty, heard of polling officials getting PTSD after the election, and electorates with voter list in two different polling booth, and not forgetting, the armed officer playing dumbfounded when wintessing a proxy voting, and proxy voting by the family members on behalf of that one lazy/busy absentee on polling day, possibly that absentee may not even know whom the family voted for.

And inspite of witnessing these, being a kill-shot and character killing of myself in these critical moment, these I say this so we can possibly do away such

Therapy (IPT)

The WHO recommends one of the following treatment regimens for latent TB infection based on drug sensitivity, drug availability, and TB incidence and prevalence:

• 6-month isoniazid (daily)*

• 9-month isoniazid (daily)

• 3-month rifapentine + isoniazid (weekly)

• 1-month of rifapentine+ isoniazid (daily)

• 3-4 months isoniazid + rifampicin (daily)

• 4 months rifampicin (daily), recommended for people who cannot tolerate or whose TB is resistant to isoniazid

Note: none of these regimens would work on drug-resistant strains. Research is underway to see if levofloxacin or delamanid are good options for contacts of people with MDR-TB.

Treating active TB disease quickly is the best way to prevent TB. There are many ways to prevent

TB—none perfect—so we need to use them all

• BCG vaccine protects children against the worst forms of TB

• Preventive therapy is very important for contacts of people with TB

• Early detection and treatment of TB and HIV is the best way to prevent TB transmission

• For TB-negative people, wearing an N-95 respirator (N-95 mask)

• For persons with TB, wearing a surgical mask when coughing may reduce the spread of TB in the first weeks of treatment, but this should not be a requirement and could increase stigma.

• Improved air quality and living conditions (avoid overcrowding)

• Healthy nutrition (both malnutrition and diabetes predispose people to develop active TB)

Ketho Angami President ARK (Access to Rights and Knowledge) Foundation

by talking about it. Ironically, because proxy voting is done by all, even the innocent had to drag themselves to equalize the proxy voter of the opposing candiates or else how can you achieve these so called changes? As the saying goes, you live long enough to become the villain yourself, therefore I appeal to everybody to do away with proxy voting together- earnestly and seriously. Indeed, such message or witness account or confession if you may, will dishearten any first time electorates in the future, and we say young people are the future, how sad is that?

Moments before 27 February, the polling day, in the eleventh hour, the ghost of money was reverberated through every ears of the constituency, the thumping echos from people’s mouth about a distribution of money had been a terrorizing goosebump feeling. Every candidate has played his/her cards well, not to mention the 4 aboveaverage honest candidates securing below NOTA margin. How more democratic can that be?

With 29 first-time MLAs, this is a hopeful sign that Nagaland has come to grapple in the best sense of the democratic spirit, and it shows that our people are good-spirited despite morally flawed, otherwise. To end, of all the many shade of sins, one common sin that can be attributed to all the voters in this state, for 2023 Nagaland State General Elections for which everyone is to blame are the two things. One, why is there so many name mistakes from one’s own name to date of birth(DOB), to even father’s name, not to mention, no timely update of one’s own photographs- which spoiler alert, were all valid inside the polling booth to vote nonethless. This systemic identity failure is a disgrace, and unacceptable. And two, proxy voting - amazing to see how - from the party candidate to party workers to the election officials down to the voters, acting just care-free as a butterfly, as if proxy voting is not a crime at all, and literally every electorate is a culprit for turning a blind eye to this. I cannot bear to see these two hopelessness in the next election, whatever way a chief secretary or a pastor acknowleging it will not simply be enough - the proxy voting has to be absolutely, literally had to be made extinct, by tooth and nail, by all. But on looking back on how the election was fought and with the declaration of results whether you win or lose, like Ice Cube famously sang, at the end of the day, it was a good day indeed. Kuto Therie

67th Republic Day speech by NNC GDRN (N/A) President Kiumukam Yimkhiung

Dear Naga People.

Greetings in the name our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, On this historic and auspicious occasion of Naga Republic Day. I thank our Almighty for his continued blessings, guidance, sustenance and protection.

Today as we celebrate the 67th Anniversary of our Naga Republic Day, let us all thank and remember our pioneers and visionary leaders who gave and sacrificed their everything to lay a firm political foundation for which we today stand with pride and dignity and we the Nagas will remain ever grateful and thankful for generations to come.

History has been proven beyond doubt that our Naga Nation/Country comprises of many Sovereign Independent Village-States, which was based on the principles of democracy and ruled by councils of elders, headed by Chief or King. But with the intrusion of British colonial forces in our free land brought the atrocities, forceful labours, taxation and control over our peace loving people and its own existence. With the departure of British in 1947, our own existence as a free people was jeopardized and our homeland was arbitrarily divided and bequeathed to the two newly emerged states of India and Myanmar (Burma). We the Naga were faced with the unimaginable wrath of sufferings, like rape, tortures, pain and hardship under the machinery of Indian and Myanmar.

Our Elders and pioneers, in spite of all the suffering, torture, hardship and atrocities meted by the agents of external forces; they firmly stood together to protect and safeguard the spirit of Naga Nationalism and in defence of Naga Nation and its homeland. They felt it necessary to form a united force under one banner of one National Govt. to confront the aggressors. So the birth of a Republic Govt was necessitated and thus the formation of Federal Government of Nagaland on 22nd march 1956.

I am indebted to all our Naga brothers and sisters for reposing your faith on us in pursuit for early political solution. It is sad and unfortunate

that we Naga National Workers are divided and fragmented, but despite all our differences we are committed and stand united for our true course, for Inclusive acceptable and Honourable Political solution. We the Working Committee of NNPGs and the govt of India have agreed in principle that Nagas have the right to self determine their future in consonance with their distinct history and identity. Now Nagas are aware of the contemporary political reality and this must be taken into account because both the entities are looking for enduring peaceful co-existence in future, which was cemented by the “Agreed Position” Or “The Preamble” signed on 17th Nov. 2017 and talks concluded on 31st oct.2019. Today as we stand at the crossroads for our liberation rather than by armed confrontation but through political dialogue for permanent and lasting solution which is honourable and mutually acceptable, questions are being raised at all levels about the sincerity and commitment of the govt of India in resolving the longest running confrontation in modern history.

On this 67th Republic Day, I salute and pay homage to all the patriots and martyrs who have made the supreme sacrifice with their lives for our Naga cause, may their struggles and sacrifices continue to inspire and guide us always. Honouring the sanctity of this auspicious day, I reaffirm once again that an honourable and acceptable solution of the Indo- Naga conflict is paramount and urge every Naga citizens to contemplate and seek the benevolent blessing of the Almighty God for an early settlement of the Naga political issue and stand united and strong.

In conclusion I acknowledge the unwavering support of all the prayers warriors, Naga civil societies, Apex Tribal Bodies, NGOs and other Organisations. May our Almighty God always continue to protect, guide and bless us always.

“God bless Nagaland”. Kuknalim!

Parking woes in Dimapur

I have notice that several SUVs and even medium and small four wheelers do not park their vehicles properly in narrow streets leading to traffic bottlenecks and constrained parking space. In some streets, both 2-wheelers and 4 wheelers are parked in the same place. While there are designated 2 and 4-wheelers parking in some streets, the parking is haphazard in most cases.

It would be of immense relief to the public if there is a defined parking system and vast open spaces that are otherwise left unused can be converted in pay-and-park spaces with security and CCTV surveillance to avoid vehicle theft.

There is room for improvement and I am positive that the concerned authority can put a system in place to address parking woes. Naro Walling, Dimapur.

SNIPPETS

5 killed as bus rams into devotees in U’khand

TANAKPUR, MARCH

23 (IANS): Five devotees were killed and eight others injured when a bus ploughed into a crowd in Thuligad parking area of Uttarakhand’s Champawat district on Thursday. According to sources, the people -- all residents of Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district -- had visited the annual Maa Purnagiri fair held at Thuligad, and were waiting for a bus to return.

12 TN fishermen arrested by SL Navy

CHENNAI, MARCH 23 (IANS): The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 12 fishermen from Pudukottai in Tamil Nadu near the Palk Bay. In two mechanised boats, the fishermen from Jagadapattinam had ventured into the sea late Wednesday night. According to the Coastal police station in Pudukottai, the fishermen had crossed the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) following which they were arrested. Police sources also said that the two mechanized boats were also seized and the fishermen have been taken to Jaffna for questioning. In the wake of the arrests, protests erupted in Pudukottai.

3 killed in Vizag building collapse

VISAKHAPATNAM, MARCH 23 (IANS): Three people were killed and five others injured when a three-storey building here came crashing down in the wee hours of Thursday. Two children and a 27-year old man hailing from Bihar were killed in the incident.

New booster should work against future covid strains: Ex AIIMS chief

NEW DELHI, MAR 23 (PTI): The Covid vaccines in use in India are providing cover for the original Wuhan strain but if the need for another booster dose is felt as new variants emerge, it should be able to provide protection against all circulating as well as future strains, according to former AIIMS director Randeep Guleria.

During an interview to PTI, he stressed on the need for two data sets - first to ascertain whether the degree of immunity is waning and secondly if the vaccines need to be tweaked when asked if it is time for another precaution dose almost a year after the first one amid the recent uptick in Covid cases.

“Currently the vaccines that we have in India are covering for what was originally the Wuhan strain. After that we had so many variants. And therefore if

(From p-1)

On the Naga issue, he said that integration of Naga areas was the birthright of Nagas, but regretted that no mention on it in the governor’s address.

On the Foothill Road issue, kikon pointed out that the governor’s speech had mentioned the length of the road as only 320 km from Tizit to Dimapur, whereas the actual road from Tizit to Khelma would cover around 392 km. During the discussion, NDPP legislator Kaito G Aye suggested that Nagaland should focus more in meat production as

we have to have a new vaccine, it should provide cover for the circulating strains like we do for influenza,” he said.

The renowned pulmonologist, who was part of the national Covid task force, highlighted the need for research on developing vaccines which will cover not only the current circulating strains but also from the emerging variants. His comments come at a time when the country is witnessing a rise in Covid cases. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a high-level meeting on Wednesday to

review the Covid situation and also took stock of the public health preparedness.

Terming the new XBB.1.16 variant as a “new kid on the block” that could be driving the recent rise, Dr Guleria said new variants will keep coming as the virus keeps on mutating over the time but “as long as they don’t lead to severe illness, hospitalisation and deaths, it is alright because it helps in giving some degree of immunity to the population if they have mild illness”.

On whether XBB 1.16 has the potential to drive a fresh wave of cases or lead to significant rise in cases in the next few days, he said, “Even if we see a surge, there is no need to worry, as long it does not translate into hospitalization and deaths.” Asked whether Covid is now an endemic, he said, “In my opinion, Covid has more or less become endemic. We have a good

PM, senior ministers meet Lok Sabha speaker amid Parliament impasse

NEW DELHI, MAR 23

amount of immunity. Cases will continue and it’s going to be here. We will continue to have some waves of cases coming and going but it is not going to cause the kind of waves we saw in the last two years. We will have to learn to live with it.”

On the surge in cases of H3N2, which is a subtype of seasonal influenza virus along with rise in Covid cases, Dr Guleria said H3N2 is part of the influenza family.

The influenza virus has been around for quite a long time.

“We had the H1N1 pandemic in 1918 also. Therefore this virus has been there but it keeps changing and the current circulating strain is H3N2,” he said.

It behaves very similarly to flu-like syndrome and one gets fever, sore throat, body aches, and a runny nose along with a cough that can be persistent and troublesome.

(AGENCIES): Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his senior ministers went to confer with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla this evening after parliament adjourned for the day, amid impasse that has held up work in the second half of the budget session, reports NDTV.

Senior Ministers Rajnath Singh, Pralhad Joshi Kiren Rijiju and others accompanied him. The agenda is not known and while it could be a courtesy meeting, there is also possibility that the impasse could be discussed. After the finance bill on budget, a second bill was passed today -- almost two weeks after parliament opened for the second half of the budget session. The meeting also comes amid the row over the disqualification of Rahul Gandhi, who was given a two-year jail term today in a defamation case involving his remarks on PM Modi.

The BJP has been batting

hard for Gandhi’s disqualification and the decision currently lies with the Speaker.

Since last week, the opposition has been on the warpath in parliament over the Adani-Hindenburg row and allege misuse of Central investigative agencies, the BJP has been adamant about its demand for an apology from Rahul Gandhi over his comments on Indian democracy at the Cambridge university.

Gandhi’s conviction today is expected to worsen matters. This morning, soon after papers were laid on the

Debate on motion of thanks to Gov’s address

currently it was not meeting the people’s requirement. Mentioning that Phek district had banned import of pork from outside, he remarked that if one district could become successful in meeting its own demand for pork, other districts should emulate Phek and encourage traditional rearing methods. On his part, BJP legislator Imkong L Imchen said that all 60 legislators were united on the Naga political issue. He recalled that sometime in 2018, the slogan “election for solution” was coined and Nagas were yearning to bring an end to the long-

standing issue. He stressed that the approach to bring out a permanent solution should be realistic, rational and acceptable to both sides of the negotiating parties. Imchen opined that the government should adopt a policy of give and take on both sides.

He reminded the House that Government of India’s offer was 80% solution and 20% post solution. He said if the Centre was sincere and committed in resolving the issue, then Nagas should also take advantage of the situation.

He urged the legislators

to be proactive and continue playing the role of sincere and active facilitators.

NDPP legislator and Adviser, Mhathung Yanthan, said the governor’s words of appreciation for the entire civil administration, police and all other State agencies for having worked tirelessly for the successful conduct of the Assembly elections in a free, fair and peaceful manner, rightly deserved the appreciation. He reminded the House that the socio-economic progress of Nagaland continued to be reliant on agriculture and allied activi-

ties, and that about 70% of the population was directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture sector.

In this regard, he told the House that the PDA-II government was committed to give focus to improvement of agriculture sector for enhancing productivity. While highlighting the socio-economic progress of Nagaland and its dependence on agriculture and allied sector, BJP legislator P Bashangmongba Chang, thanked the government for issuing organic certification to 23,000 hectares of agricultural land in the State.

He mentioned that the formation of 38 farmer producers’ organisations would not only go a long way in boosting the rural economy, but also create awareness among growers and farmers on the importance of organic farming..

Lone LJP (RV) legislator Dr Sukhato A Sema claimed that Pughoboto sub-division was one region deeply rooted in the Naga political issue since its inception and still had a very strong connection. He said was obliged to thank chief minister, deputy CM and the esteemed team members as

table of the House, Congress members were on their feet raising slogans and showing placards demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee to investigate the Hindenburg-Adani issue. Several members also trooped near the Speaker’s podium. Some members from the treasury benches were also on their feet. The proceedings had to be adjourned till 2 pm.

Rajya Sabha Speaker Jagdeep Dhankhar and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla have held repeated all-party meetings to resolve the issue.

an elected member from the constituency, for taking the initiative to bring a solution to the Naga political issue at the earliest. Dr Sema said he had apprised the matter to LJP(RV) president Chirag Paswan, who not only assured to take up the matter with the Prime Minister but also raise the issue in Parliament at an appropriate time. He assured the Assembly that the LJP(RV) State unit would extend full support to Rio and his council of ministers in resolving the long-pending Naga political issue by bringing it to a logical conclusion.

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Randeep Guleria

PM Modi and Rajnath Singh in the Lok Sabha during ongoing Budget Session of Parliament, in New Delhi. (PTI)

ITC to go for climate risk modelling: Puri

KOLKATA, MAR 23

(PTI): Diversified conglomerate ITC Limited is going for climate-risk modelling to identify the hotspots owing to extreme weather conditions, its Chairman Sanjiv Puri said on Thursday.

Puri said that a team of experts is engaged in this job of modelling comprising big data analytics.

Speaking on the sidelines of a CII event, Puri told reporters: “ITC is trying for a climate risk modelling to identify the hotspots. Then steps will be taken to mitigate these issues. A team of experts is working using big data analytics”.

Puri said ITC had already done this in 2020 on a macro basis, adding that this exercise will now be conducted on a granular basis and site-specific for agriculture value chain.

“Some years back, we had started to work on climate-smart agriculture. After a few years, nearly

CNTC, Lotha Hoho demand...

(From p-1)

Meanwhile, the Lotha Hoho expressed dissatisfaction with the 74th Amendment, and the recent statement of Municipal Affairs department dated March 18, 2023. In this regard, the LH has demand that the existing Municipal Act 2001 be rewritten in a way that was relevant to Nagaland under the Special Constitutional provisions of Art 371(A) and others before conducting any ULB Election.

LH also demanded that Amended Sections and Clauses be incorporated in the existing Act and publish the rewritten Act for wide public circulation.

If the NMA 2001 was not amended, LH cautioned that the town councils under Wokha district would not be allowed to participate in the ULB election.

70 per cent of the villages where ITC is working with the farmers will be covered.

The farmers will benefit from high yields resulting in better farmers’ incomes,” he said.

Puri said this practice will also reduce the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs).

ITC is working on popularising millet-based products in all categories of its food business in the

Rupee gains 39 paise to close at 82.20 against USD

MUMBAI, MAR 23 (PTI)

All new Hyundai Verna launched in Dimapur

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAR 23

next few months. Millets are able to withstand extreme weather conditions and are also nutritious, Puri added.

Referring to commodity inflation, Puri said it is cooling off now.

The ITC chairman said presently urban demand is growing at a fast pace while rural demand is expected to pick up.

Earlier, he said that the company has been reporting on the triple bottom line for sustainability on environmental, social and social aspects.

“Inclusive and sustainable growth is the key to long-term success. It is also important how the supply chain adapts to extreme weather conditions,” he added. According to Puri, it is important to bring resilience to agriculture. He also said the energy transition from coal to renewables will involve social and financial costs as well.

Global IT services firm Accenture slashes 19K jobs

NEW

DELHI, MAR

23

(IANS): Global IT services firm Accenture, which has a large presence in India, on Thursday announced to lay off nearly 19,000 employees amid the challenging global macro-economic conditions and slow revenue growth.

Delivering its quarterly results for the second quarter of fiscal 2023, the company also reduced its annual revenue growth and profit forecasts.

“We are also taking steps to lower our costs in fiscal year 2024 and beyond while continuing to invest in our business and our people to capture the significant growth opportunities ahead,” Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO, Accenture, said in a statement.

The company said its

revenues were $15.8 billion, an increase of 5 per cent in US dollars. The new bookings were at $22.1 billion, a 13 per cent increase.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2023, Accenture initiated actions to streamline operations, transform non-billable corporate functions and consolidate office space to reduce costs. The company recorded $244 million in business optimization costs during the second quarter and expects to record total costs of approximately $1.5 billion through fiscal 2024.

“Accenture estimates $1.2 billion for severance and $300 million for consolidation of office space, with approximately $800 million expected in fiscal 2023 and $700 million in fiscal 2024,” said the company.

The rupee gained 39 paise to close at 82.20 against the US dollar on Thursday, tracking the weakness of the American currency in the overseas market.

Traders said the weak US Dollar and decline in US Treasury yields on the back of dovish Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) boosted investor sentiments.

The 25 basis points interest rate hike by the US Federal Reserve was on the expected lines, and the declining crude oil prices boosted the overall sentiments, they added.

At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened strong at 82.38 against the dollar and gained further ground and finally settled at 82.20 against the American currency, registering a gain of 39 paise against its previous close. In intra-day trade, the rupee touched a high of 82.08 and hit the lowest level of 82.41 against the greenback.

(NPN): Floyd Hyundai on Thursday launched the all new Hyundai Verna, with District Transport Officer (DTO), D Jambo Sema as the special guest.

Highlighting the details of the newly launched vehicle, sales manager, Santosh Das stated that the all new Hyundai Verna was a perfect reflection of its customer’s aspiration, adding that the new sedan was not just a benchmark, but also a future of new smart mobility build on advance technologies, sensuous sportiness and ferocious performance.

Speaking on car, he noted that Hyundai Verna came with some of the “best in segment” features such as electrically adjustable driver seat, ventilated and heating seats in the front for both driver and co-driver, 528 ltrs boot space, longest wheelbase in its segment, etc, whilst also adding that the new generation car has got spaceship inspired design with many cuts and creases and angles.

He added that the new Verna comes with parametric jewel grille, has the first in segment front connecting LED DRLs, while in the rear, a “H” shaped connecting LED Tail Lamps, further adding that the new Hyundai Verna was longer in terms of the length than previous model.

Speaking on the major change that has been done in the newly launched car was in the wheel base, due to which interior space of the vehicle increased. He also added that the car comes with R16 silver alloys in regular petrol and full black

Hindenburg accuses Block of $1B fraud and misleading investors

WASHINGTON, MAR

23 (AGENCIES): After the controversial report on Indian conglomerate Adani Group, US-based short seller Hindenburg dropped a new bombshell report and this time it would be Silicon Valley darling Block, Inc. (SQ) founded by Jack Dorsey. Hindenburg’s report claimed that Block has allowed fraudulent accounts to proliferate on cash applications, generating illegitimate revenue and exaggerating user metrics, reports Mint news.

The short seller’s report said, “the “magic” behind Block’s business has not been disruptive innovation, but rather the company’s willingness to facilitate fraud against consumers and the government,

avoid regulation, dress up predatory loans and fees as revolutionary technology, and mislead investors with inflated metrics.”

Hindenburg released this report after carrying two years of investigation on Block. The short seller’s research includes dozens of interviews with former employees, partners, and industry experts, extensive review of regulatory and litigation records, and FOIA and public records requests.

It concluded that Block has systematically taken advantage of the demographics it claims to be helping.

Block which was formerly known as Square Inc, is a $44 billion market cap company. Hindunberg stated that the company

claims to have developed a “frictionless” and “magical” financial technology with a mission to empower the “unbanked” and the “underbanked”.

alloy in the turbo variants. On the specifications, he informed that the car comes with Hyundai smart sense level 2 ADAS, forward collision warning, forward collision avoidance assist, lane following assist, high beam assist, vehicle departure alert, rear cross-traffic collision warning, rear crosstraffic, collision-avoidance assist, safe exit warning, driver attention warning, lane departure warning, blind spot collision warning/avoidance assist, etc. On technical specification, he pointed that the all new Hyundai Verna would

be offered in two engine options, 1.5L MPI petrol and 1.5L Turbo GDi, with a maximum power output of 160PS and torque of 253NM. In regards to color variant, he added that the all new Hyundai Verna comes in seven monotone color options, Titan grey, Tellurian brown, Fiery red, Atlas white, Typhoon silver, Abyss black and Starry night.

He later added that the car is launched with an introductory price of Rs. 10,89,900 for EX-variant and goes up to Rs. 17,37,900 for the SX O turbo variant.

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DTO D Jambo Sema with proprietor, Flyod Hyundai, Shikato Sema during the launch of new vehicle. (NP)

Sanjiv Puri

SNIPPETS

6 dead in car crash in US

WASHINGTON, MARCH 23 (IANS): Six people died after a car crashed into a highway work zone in the US state of Maryland, police said.

A grey Acura passenger vehicle entered the work zone travelling between temporarily placed jersey walls, striking multiple construction workers before overturning, according to a preliminary investigation.

All six people were declared dead at the scene, reports Xinhua news agency. Storm kills 5 in San Francisco SAN FRANCISCO, MARCH 23 (IANS): Five people died from storm-related incidents in the US’ San Francisco Bay Area, local authorities said.

Two San Francisco residents died from injuries in separate incidents related to downed trees on Tuesday afternoon, city officials said on Wednesday.

Three other people died from the extreme weather. One in San Mateo County, another in Walnut Creek, and a third in Oakland.

Israeli drone crashes in Syria

JERUSALEM, MARCH

23 (IANS): An Israeli drone crashed in Syria during “routine activity,” the Israeli military said in a statement.

“There had been no breach of information,” the military said on Wednesday, adding that the incident was under investigation. The statement did not provide more details.

Israel has conducted a shadow war in Syria over the past years, with numerous airstrikes aimed at Iranian targets or weapons convoys belonging to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group, Xinhua news agency reported.

Earlier on Wednesday, Israel’s Iron Dome aerial defence system intercepted a drone belonging to Hamas, a Palestinian faction ruling the Gaza Strip.

Anger at Macron mounts as French unions hold new protests

PARIS, MAR 24 (AP): Large crowds in Paris and other French cities took to the streets in the first mass demonstrations since President Emmanuel Macron inflamed public anger by forcing a higher retirement age bill through parliament without a vote.

Strikes upended travel in France on Thursday as protesters blockaded train stations, Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, refineries and ports.

More than 250 protests were organized across the country and union leaders praised the “significant” mobilization.

In Paris, tens of thousands gathered on the Bastille plaza in a cheerful atmosphere, many waving union flags to the sound of standard protest songs as they started walking through the capital. “We are here, even if Macron doesn’t want it, we are here!” many chanted.

In the western city of Rennes, scuffles broke out between some participants and police who used water cannons to disperse the crowd.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin denounced “unacceptable assaults and damage” at a state building and a police station in Lorient, also in western France. “These actions cannot remain unpunished,” he

Russia’s security chief blasts West, dangles nuclear threats

vide Ukraine with foreign weapons brings the nuclear apocalypse closer.”

EU leaders set to endorse joint ammo purchases for Ukraine

BRUSSELS, MAR 23

Slovakia delivers first

interchanges to slow traffic around big cities.

Thursday’s events were the ninth round of nationwide demonstrations and strikes called by France’s eight main unions since January. Violence has intensified in recent days at small, scattered protests against the pension reform and Macron’s leadership — in contrast with the largely peaceful big demonstrations staged by unions until then.

(AP): European Union leaders were poised on Thursday to endorse a plan for sending Ukraine 1 million rounds of artillery ammunition within the next 12 months to help the country counter Russia’s invasion forces.

4 Soviet-era MiG-29 jets to Ukraine

Kaja Kallas

tweeted.

High-speed and regional trains, the Paris metro and public transportation systems in other major cities were disrupted. About 30% of flights at Paris Orly Airport were canceled. The Eiffel Tower and the Versailles Palace were closed Thursday due to the strikes.

Protesters staged blockades on major highways and

Social unrest in France is also tarnishing the sheen of King Charles III’s first overseas trip as monarch, scheduled next week, with striking workers refusing to provide red carpets and un collected garbage piling up in Paris streets.

The French leader is stubbornly resisting the discontent on the streets, and said Wednesday that the government’s bill to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 must be implemented by the end of the year.

EU foreign and defence ministers approved the plan for a fast-track purchasing procedure earlier this week, and the leaders of the bloc’s 27 member nations will give it their political blessing at a summit in Brussels, according to several senior EU diplomats. They spoke anonymously under EU practices ahead of summits.

With Ukraine facing ammunition shortages after more than a year of fighting, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas brought to the table last month the idea of the EU setting up a joint purchasing plan similar to the one devised during the coronavirus pandemic to buy

vaccines. “What is critical is sending ammunition to Ukraine fast, because that might bring a change in this war,” Kallas said as she arrived at the summit.

Under the plan, the European Defence Agency would in parallel with deliveries aggregate requests from member states to restock, and lead a fasttrack procedure for direct negotiations with industrial providers of ammunition in Europe.

“When we have this joint procurement, then the defense industry has the orders that they can actually double their production, because they have not done so far,” Kallas said.

The first four of 13 Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets that Slovakia decided to give Ukraine have been safely handed over to the Ukrainian air force, the Slovak Defence Ministry said on Thursday.

The ministry said the warplanes were flown from Slovakia to Ukraine by Ukrainian pilots with help from the Slovak air force, Ukrainian personnel and others. “I thank (all) involved for a fantastic professional job,” defence Minister Jaroslav Nad said.

The ministry said the remaining MiG-29s will be handed over to the Ukrainian side in the coming weeks. It said it will not provide any additional details until they’re safely in Ukraine. On Friday, the Slovak government approved a plan to give Ukraine its fleet of 13 Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets.

Israel passes law protecting Netanyahu as protests

TEL AVIV, MAR 23 (AP):

continue

MOSCOW, MAR 23 (AP):

A top Russian security official warned Thursday about the rising threat of a nuclear war and blasted a German minister for threatening Vladimir Putin with arrest, saying that such action would amount to a declaration of war and trigger a Russian strike on Germany.

Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy secretary of Russia’s Security Council chaired by Putin, said in video remarks to reporters that Russia’s relations with the West have hit an all-time bottom.

Asked whether the threat of a nuclear conflict has eased, Medvedev responded: “No, it hasn’t decreased , it has grown. Every day when they pro-

SBC Congratulates Rev. Dr. Kavito Zhimo

The Sümi Baptist Convention comprises of three Sümi Baptist Associations (SBAK/SABAK/WSBAK) heartily congratulates Rev. Dr. Kavito Zhimo on his appointment to General Secretary of Bible Society of India Rev. Dr. Kavito Zhimo served as the Principal of Trinity Theological College, Dimapur for thirty years and was awarded "Principal Emeritus" title by Sümi Baptist Convention on his retirement. He also served as the acting Director of Sümi Baptist Convention for two years, served as the President of CBCNEI and also served as the President of Senate of Serampore University. Rev. Zhimo is an administrator, writer and a committed man of God who deserved to be in such a prestigious position. The Sümi Baptist Convention wishes him a blessed fruitful minister.

The SBC also profoundly felicitates Rev. Dr. Hotokhu Zhimo, the President of Sümi Baptist Convention for conferring the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) by the International Institute of Arts & Theology Kolkata and wishing him success in his future ministry.

DP-1256/23

Rev. dr. Khehovi Shohe director Sümi Baptist Convention

gRATITUDE

The Government Middle School Midland, Kohima express our special thanks and gratitude to the 1st Assam Rifles (LH) for providing teaching aids and sports goods to our school.

A special thanks to c olonel U mesh Sati and team for taking the time and initiative to look into the students' welfare and providing material aids and sharing words of wisdom and encouragement to the young and curious minds of the students. The school is beyond grateful for their advice and guidance and their continued support is highly appreciated.

The school wishes them God's blessings and protection in their future undertakings.

with thanks Teachers and Students of government Middle School Midland, kohima K-625/23

He has issued a barrage of such strongly-worded statements in the past, blasting the U.S. and its NATO allies for what he described as their efforts to break up and destroy Russia. It’s been a drastic metamorphosis for the gentle-looking politician, who once was hailed by the West as a liberal hope.

Medvedev denounced the International Criminal Court’s decision to issue an arrest warrant for Putin on charges of alleged involvement in abductions of thousands of children from Ukraine as legally null and void.

Israel’s parliament on Thursday passed the first of several laws that make up its contentious judicial overhaul as protesters opposing the changes staged another day of demonstrations aimed at raising alarm over what they see as the country’s descent toward autocracy. Thousands of people protested throughout the country, blocking traffic on main highways and scuffling with police in unrest that shows no sign of abating, especially as the overhaul moves ahead. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition approved legislation that would protect the Israeli leader from being deemed unfit to rule because of his corruption trial and

OFFIcE O F THE kUL O LAU SHENA OLD kÜQHA k ULU

F ELIcITATI O N

With immense pride and joy the Kulolau Shena Old Kuqhakulu (KSOK) conveys our heartiest congratulations to E r. P UL Ok A k. AcHU M I , S/o KHUKIYE ACHUMI on being promoted to the post of Sub-Divisional Officer from Junior Engineer under Water Resources Department, Nagaland.

The union wishes and prays that our Almighty God guide you as you shoulder higher responsibilities.

c hairman Secretary kulolau Shena Old kuqhakulu kulolau Shena Old kuqhakulu

We the members of Old Changsu Union Wokha Town with immense pride and honour conveys our heartiest congratulations to Mr. T Thungbemo Patton, S/o. Tsumongo Patton on his promotion as Assistant Director (Grade-1) under Women Resource Development Department and Mr. Lirhonthung E kithan, S/o Etangbemo Kithan for being elected as the President of Lotha Students' Union (LSU).

The union wishes them good health and wisdom in their new endeavors with more commitment.

Sd/- Sd/-

S. Aben Ngullie Nrithung kithan Chairman, OCUWT Secretary, OCUWT wc-64/23

OFFICE OF THE

KOHIMA JAPUKONG SENSO TELONGJEM

REGd. NO.-HOME/SRC-7299, dT.-20/12/2018

KOHIMA-79 7001, NAGALANd FELICITATION

The Kohima Japukong Senso Telongjem (KJST) with immense pleasure extends its heartiest congratulations to Shri. Temjen Imna Along Longkumer , Hon'ble Minister Higher Education and Tourism elect, 30 th Alongtaki A/C for being elected to the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly during the recently held State General Election 2023.

We are proud of your achievement and humbled by the blessings bestowed upon our KJST as a member in particular and Alongtaki Constituency in general.

May the Almighty God provide you with wisdom, resources and strength to serve the people in all future endeavor.

God bless you

Longchar) Sd/- (Imtisungkum) President General Secretary

claims of a conflict of interest surrounding his involvement in the legal changes.

Critics say the law is tailor-made for Netanyahu, encourages corruption and deepens a gaping chasm between Israelis over the judicial overhaul.

The legal changes have split the nation between those who see the new policies as stripping Israel of its democratic ideals and those who think the country has been overrun by a liberal judiciary. The government’s plan has plunged the nearly 75-year-old nation into one of its worst domestic crises.

“Either Israel will be

a Jewish, democratic and progressive state or religious, totalitarian, failing, isolated and closed off. That’s where they are leading us,” Tzipi Livni, a former foreign

minister and a prominent supporter of the protest movement, told Israeli Army Radio.

The opposition is rooted in broad swaths of society

— including business leaders and top legal officials. Even the country’s military, seen as a beacon of stability by Israel’s Jewish majority, is enmeshed in the political conflict, as some reservists are refusing to show up for duty over the changes. Israel’s international allies have also expressed concern.

The law to protect Netanyahu passed 61-47 in Israel’s 120-seat Knesset, or parliament. It stipulates that a prime minister can only be deemed unfit to rule for health or mental reasons and that only he or his government can make that decision.

Protesters march during a rally in Nantes, western France, Thursday. (AP)

Protesters protesting in Tel Aviv, Israel, Thursday. (AP)

Dmitry Medvedev

More reports on ‘World Water Day’

DIMAPUR: In an effort to raise awareness on the importance of water conservation and highlight the global water crisis, Nagaland observed the “World Water Day” under 2023 theme, “Accelerating the change to solve the water and sanitation crisis.”

DAN: Development Association of Nagaland (DAN) under “Morung

Project” observed “World Water Day” on March 22 at Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School (SHHSS), Chizami village under Phek District. During the programme, regional coordinator, Tshekulhi Aku Thopi spoke on the significance the day. He said that due to the increasing population, the need for more water source was also increasing and that several places across the state are also starting to face acute scarcity of water due to

inefficient water management system. Thopi challenged the students to be a problem solver and not a problem maker, and further encouraged the students to be innovative and bring solution to the problems the world is facing. A short speech on “World Water Day” was also delivered by Mhuwa-u Wezah of Class 10. To mark the occasion, several competitions such as model exhibition and

presentation on water conservation, sketching and costume display competitions were also organised. NEISSR: North East Institute of Social Sciences & Research (NEISSR) observed “World Water Day” on March 22, wherein NEISSR principal, Fr. Dr. C.P. Anto stressed on the urgent importance of using water sparingly and suggested to develop a strategic plan of action for con-

serving drinking water and sanitation for sustainable development. He also said that the government and private institutions should work hand in hand to accelerate change to provide safe drinking water and sanitation to communities, institutions and families respectively. On the occasion, a water purifier sponsored by South Indian Bank under CSR project was also inaugurated.

Variousprogrammes,activitiesorganisedforstudents

DIMAPUR: Educational institutions and other organisations have been organising various programmes and activities for the student community across the state.

NPC: Norman Putsure College, Chumoukedima celebrated its first annual cultural day on March 22, wherein managing director of NPC encouraged the students to be rooted to one’s own culture and traditions in order to retain one’s unique identity. The managing directed also urged the student community to be mindful of not being the propagators of tribalism. Competitions on folk song, folk dance, folk tale narration and others were held among the four houses of the college.

NCC YC: As part of the annual inspection of National Cadet Corps (NCC) units, group commander, Kohima NCC group, Brig PS Sangwan on March 22 visited Yingli College, Longleng. He was accompanied by commanding officer, 25 Naga Bn NCC, Mokokchu ng, Col CST Swamy and was received by senior under officer Shetlong P. The group commander was accorded a formal welcome by Yingli College principal, Dr T Temsu Imti, who explained the initiatives that are being undertaken by the college to benefit the student community. In his address, Brig Sangwan asked the cadets to think about the career path they would like to take and write it down.

He said the Naga students are very talented and have good grasp of English language that they have better chances of making it to the central government jobs. He also informed about the special drives carried out by renowned corporate companies to recruit NCC cadets in other parts of the country. Speaking on the occasion, Dr T Temsu Imti gave a brief history of the college and advised the cadets to concentrate both on academics and NCC so that they are well qualified to be placed in good jobs.

SJU: The department of social work, St Joseph University, Chumoukedima held its “1st Social Work Fest” on March 21-22 at the University premises under the theme, “Respecting Diversity through joint social actions.”

The department informed that the purpose of the fest was to bring together Social Work Institutes to collaborate, share ideas and engage students in various activities.

Special guest, deputy director (admin), CIHSR, Chumoukedima, Dr Viu Meru highlighted the social pluralism of the presentday society and the need to accept, appreciate and respect these diversities as normal. He pointed out that various Acts and Laws can

only address the discriminating behaviour but not the attitude in itself. On the second day, resource person, vice principal and admin, NEISSR, Rev. Fr. G. L. Khing highlighted the importance of knowledge and skills to properly address social problems with actions. He also deliberated on some areas where professional social workers could address the social problems without wasting much resources.

Social work students and faculties from St Joseph University, North East Institute of Social Science Research (NE ISSR), and Don Bosco College, Maram participated in the various activities and competitions.

PCC: The department of English, Patkai Christian College inaugurated its drama club on March 22, with an objective to provide artistic entertainment in the form of performances and build intellectual and aesthetic understanding of the craft and techniques of theatre.

At the launching programme, guest speaker Neikolie Kuotsu, a doctoral candidate in Cinema Studies at the School of Arts and Aesthetics, JNU, New Delhi, highlighted the various crucial aspects of theatre and the art of stage performance drawing upon his own experiences while performing on various platforms in Delhi. The

speaker also took questions and interacted with the students. Earlier, in a welcome address, HoD, department of English, Ruuleto Vakha said the objective was to put into practice the dramas read and taught theoretically in class, to develop basic skills and provide training in performing arts and to develop script writing, stage craft, play production and public speaking.

YMC: As part of departmental annual activity, Department of History, Yemhi Memorial College (YMC) Dimapur organised a seminar titled “Raids and Expeditions: The early co-

lonial contact in the Naga Hills” on March 15 at the College Conference Hall. Resource person, assistant professor, department of history, Patkai Christian College (Autonomous), Chümoukedima, Dr. Thungdemo N Yanthan enlightened the gathering with the differences in the British and the Nagas perspectives on “raids and expeditions”. He also talked about a brief history on how the Britishers penetrated into the Naga Hills. A brief overview of the topic was also shared by assistant professor and HoD, Department of History YMC, T L Konang.

OFFICE OF THE LONGKHIM DIVISION STUDENTS’ UNION

H.Q .Longkhim Dist: Tuensang FELICITATION

The Office of Longkhim Division Students’ Union (LDSU) conveys our heartiest congratulations to Shri. H Sethrongkyü Sangtam on being elected from 52 Longkhim-Chare A/C in the recently concluded 14th NLA election and for being inducted as Advisor, Information Technology & Communication, Economics & Statistics and Evaluation, Government of Nagaland. The LDSU is confident that under his energized and visionary leadership, the aspirations of our people for prosperity and the overall development of Longkhim-Chare will soon be materialized. Further, we reiterate our unwavering support and cooperation to his leadership in the pursuit of our common aspiration for the betterment and welfare of the people. The Union wishes him good health and prayers as he embarks upon new chapter of public service.

(THSALIBA) (SEDILA) President General Secretary

SCC: Sao Chang College (SCC) department of Zoology in collaboration with Jal Shakti Committee, Sao Chang College, observed “World Water Day 2023” on March 22. The college infirmed that the students from different colleges participated in the photography with slogan competition through their creative presentations. The winners were adjudged based on their creativity, originality and theme relevance.

NavSahyog: NavSahyog Foundation observed World Water Day on March 22 to inculcate the value of water in the village children. The event witnessed the children participating by writing slogans, drawings, pond modelling with the stones, plants and readily available resources from their surroundings and dance performance on “The Mission Paani Anthem Song”.

WEAFED to organise ‘Handloom Expo’ in Dimapur

DIMAPUR: Nagaland

Apex Weavers & Artisans

Cooperative Federation (WEAFED) Ltd. Dimapur has informed that it would be organising “State Handloom Expo”, sponsored by Development Commissioner (Handloom) Ministry of Textiles government of

India, from March 30 to April 12 at Urban Haat, Dimapur. In a press release, WEAFED Ltd. has asked interested cooperative societies, NGOs, apex societies, SHGs and 20 cooperative societies from the neighbouring states to submit application to its office,

opposite Fire Brigade, Dimapur along with detailed address, mobile number, SBI bank A/C No with IFSC code on or before March 27. For further details, interested participants have been asked to apply through email (weafed@gmail.com) or intimate at office hours.

14th NLA Session: Annual administrative reports Laid

DIMAPUR: On the third day of the ongoing 14 Nagaland Legislative Assembly session, chief minister Neiphiu Rio laid the Annual Administrative Reports 2022-2023 of the following Departments: Geology & Mining, La -

bour, Evaluation, Art & Culture, Science & Technology, Municipal Affairs, Water Resources, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Urban Development, Excise & Prohibition, State Council of Educational Research &

FELICITATION

With immense pride and honour, we the Mopong Hongkong Union, Kohima would like to convey our heartiest congratulations to Shri. A. Nyamnyei Konyak (48th Moka A/C) and Shri K Naiba Konyak (55 th Tobu A/c) for being elected to the 14 th House of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in the recently held General Election. We further wish them the very best and assure our sincere prayers for all their future endeavors.

We also express our profound gratitude to all the rank and file of the 48th Moka AC National People's Party and 55 th Tobu A/C Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) and all electorates who have worked relentlessly to deliver success and victory. May the Lord bless you all.

E. Wangba Konyak P. Lhangti Konyak President MHUK General Secretary MHUK

K-615/23

Training, Department of Under Developed Areas (DUDA).

AAR of Planning & Transformation, Border Affairs, Public Health Engineering and Cooperation, Rural Development and State Institute of Rural De-

velopment were also laid. Rio also laid on the Nagaland Information Commission Annual Report 2020-2021, 2021-2022; Audit Report of Samagra Shiksha 2021-2022 and the Nagaland State Disaster Management Rules 2011.

With immense pride and honour, the Longsa Senso Telongjem Dimapur (LSTD) conveys our heartiest congratulations to Shri. Metsubo Jamir, on being successfully re-elected in the recently concluded 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly Election 2023. We wish him the very best in all future endeavors and pray that he continue to excel more in his leadership.

Shri. A. Nyamnyei Konyak Shri K Naiba Konyak

Participants of “World Water Day” at SHHSS, Chizami.

Participants of the awareness campaign on animal health care-cum-anti rabies & swine fever vaccination programme held at 10th IRBn camp Zhadima on March 23, organized by Veterinary Hospital Kohima under CVO office Kohima in collaboration with 10th IRBn unit.

ISSF WC: India win silver, bronze in team events

BHOPAL, MARCH 23 (IANS): India added two more medals to their tally after picking up a silver and bronze in Pistol and Rifle mixed team events while China won both the gold medals on competition Day-2 of the ongoing ISSF World Cup at the M.P. Shooting Academy Range, here on Thursday.

In the first competition of the day, reigning men’s 10m Air Rifle world champion Rudrankksh Patil and R. Narmada Nithin won bronze in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team competition while in the day’s second event, Varun Tomar and Rhythm Sangwan won silver to bolster India’s medal haul to one gold, one silver and two bronze medals.

China, on the other hand, is leading the standings with three gold and two bronze medals, with Azerbaijan, Germany and Hungary winning a silver medal each thus far.

In the day’s first medal event, the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team, the Indian duo of Rudrankksh and Narmada shot a combined 632 in qualification to finish third and thereby qualify for the bronze medal match against China’s Zhang Qiongyue and Yu Haonan, who finished fourth in the 19-strong field with the same combined

score. In the bronze medal match, both Rudrankksh and Narmada were in their element, presenting a solid grouping to beat the Chinese pair 16-8 in what was a much closer match than the scoreline suggests. Both the pairs did not shoot a single shot below the 10-mark in what was shooting of the highest or-

1ST D E ATH A NN IVERS A RY of Late Viwelie Sekhose

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."(2 Timothy 4: 7)

der. The high-point came in the sixth series when both Rudrankksh and Narmada shot perfect 10.9s.

“There was pressure obviously, but then we had a really good match- the competition was so good and we quite enjoyed it,” said Narmada after the match. Rudrankksh said there was no lack of motivation even if they did not win gold.

“We were just asked to focus on our process and if we would have got Gold we would have been motivated but the bronze motivates us even more to do better next time,” he said. Both India and China had entered two teams in the Mixed Team Air Rifle. While the second Chinese team of Huang Yuting and Sheng Lihao won gold defeating Hungarians Istvan Peni and Denes Eszter 16-2 in a one-sided final, the second Indian duo of Hriday Hazarika and Tilottoma

Sen shot 628.1 in qualification to finish ninth. In the second and final medal event of the day, India’s Varun Tomar and Rhythm Sangwan went down 11-17 to China’s Qian Wei and Liu Jinyao, in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team gold medal encounter.

It was Varun Tomar’s second medal of the tournament after his bronzewinning effort in the individual Air Pistol on day one.

In the initial stages of the final, it looked as if the Chinese pair would run away with it, but the Indians made a strong comeback, going from 7-15 to 11-15 before the Chinese clinched the 15th series to seal gold.

It was a double delight for China as the mixed pair of Xue Li and Pengqi Hu pocketed the bronze with a dominating 16-0 win over Germany in the bronze medal playoff.

UEFA to investigate Barcelona for its referee payments

NYON

(SWITZER -

LAND), MAR 23 (AP): Barcelona is facing a new legal threat from UEFA, including a possible Champions League ban, because of its payments of millions of dollars to a company linked to a Spanish refereeing official. The European soccer body asked Thursday for an investigation into the matter, which is already being pursued by prosecutors in Spain.

Champions League regulations in effect since April 2007 allow UEFA to ban teams from the competition for one season if they were involved in fixing matches. UEFA said Thursday it asked disciplinary inspectors to “conduct an investigation regarding a potential violation of UEFA’s legal framework by FC Barcelona in connection with the so-called Caso Negreira.’” Court documents show Barcelona paid 7.3mn

euros ($7.7mn) from 200118 to the company of José María Enríquez Negreira, the former vice president of Spanish soccer’s refereeing committee. Prosecutors in Spain have formally accused Barcelona of corruption in sports, fraudulent management and falsification of business documents. An investigating judge will decide if this will lead to charges.

No evidence has yet been published that referees

or individual games were actually influenced. Barcelona has consistently denied any wrongdoing or conflict of interest, saying it paid for technical reports on referees but never tried to influence their decisions in games. Any proof of manipulated games in the past 16 years could see UEFA exclude Barcelona from its competitions for one year and prosecute a disciplinary case.

Subject : Appointment to the post of Member Secretary, Central Pollution Control Board on deputation basis (Including Short Term (ISTC) basis) -reg. A pplications are invited from eligible candidates for appointment to the post of Member Secretary, c entral Pollution c ontrol b oard (c Pcb ), Delhi on deputation/ISTc basis.

2. The c entral Pollution c ontrol b oard (c Pcb ) was established under the provisions of the water (Prevention and c ontrol of Pollution) Act, 1974. The c Pcb exercises functions related to prevention and control of pollution

1. Scale of Pay Pay Level 13 A in the pay matrix (Grade pay: 8900)

2. Method of Recruitment b y deputation including short term contract

3. Terms and Conditions The Member Secretary will be governed by the terms and conditions applicable to officers of equivalent rank under c entral Government

4. Period of Deputation Three Years

5. Age Limit

01.03.1934 to 24.03.2022

The maximum age limit of appointment by deputation shall not be exceeding fifty six(56) years as on the closing date of the receipt of applications, provided candidate fulfills the other eligibility conditions for the post.

3. The detailed advertisement is available on the website of the Ministry at https://moef.nic.in and website of the c entral Pollution c ontrol b oard (c Pcb ) at https://cpcb. nic.in/jobs.php

Ravindra Kumar Tiwari

Deputy Secretary, c P Divison Phone : 011-2081 9294

Email: rk.tiwari83@gov.in

Dear Apuo (Baba)

A year has passed by since you left us for your heavenly abode. But your memory still linger and cherish in our hearts. The legacy which you left behind will always be remembered and cherished in our memories forever.

Loving wife, children, grandchildren and relatives

Ack N Ow L EDgEME N T

We, the bereaved family of Late Nukshisenla , would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by us physically, financially, spiritually and materially during her illness and at the time of her demise.

We convey our special thanks to :

1. Dimapur Ao Baptist Arogo

2. Asangma Baptist Arogo

3. Dimapur Asangma Senso Telongjem

4. Dimapur Asangmatsur Telongjem

5. District Hospital Dimapur Staff

6. Medical Fellowship (DHD)

7. A. Pangjung Jamir (Advisor, Fishery and Aquatic Resources)

8. Neighbours and Well Wishers Kevijau Colony, Signal, Dimapur

We regret our inability to mention all the names individually, however, it is our sincere prayer that Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

DP-1246/23

Loving parents, siblings and relatives

CBC 13113/12/0010/2223

Rhythm Sangwan and Varun Tomar. (NRAI)

NEW DELHI, MARCH

23 (IANS): Star Indian pugilists Nitu Ghanghas and Nikhat Zareen produced monumental displays to record contrasting victories and reach the finals of the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championship 2023 at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex here on Thursday.

With three consecutive Referee Stops Contest (RSC) wins under her belt, Nitu (48kg) continued her remarkable run at the tournament against the reigning Asian champion Alua

Nitu, Nikhat in finals

outpunching the veteran Rio Olympics bronze medallist Ingrit Valencia of Colombia and securing a 5-0 win. Being at the top of her game, the 26-yearold star pugilist utilised her quick movement and stellar strength to control the bout from the word go. She maintained her composure going into the next few rounds and dominated the bout, giving her Colombian opponent no chance to make a comeback and sealing the win by unanimous decision.

Rony Barbosa eager for Brazil debut

We could’ve won by bigger scoreline: Stimac on India’s 1-0 win over

Myanmar

IMPHAL, MAR 23 (PTI):

India edged Myanmar 1-0 in the opening game of the Tri-Nation International Football Tournament but head coach Igor Stimac said the scoreline could have been better, given the hosts’ complete dominance in the game.

Balkibekova of Kazakhstan with a hard-earned 5-2 win on points after the bout was reviewed.

Having suffered a defeat against the Kazakh in the quarterfinals of the last World Championships, the 22-year-old Indian had a point to prove this time round.

Both pugilists were neck-and-neck in all three rounds and while Balkibekova kept Nitu throughout the bout, the 2022 Commonwealth Games champion kept her cool to get the better of her

opponent. The southpaw smartly landed accurate punches and showcased immense grit to reach the finals of the competition for the very first time. Nitu will now take on the 2022 Asian Championships bronze medallist Lutsaikhan Altantsetseg of Mongolia in the final on Saturday.

Contrary to Nitu’s fiercely contested bout, Nikhat (50kg) had an easy day at the office as she continued her quest for back-to-back World Championships gold medals by

Miami Open: Former champions Andy Murray, John Ishner crash out in opener

MIAMI (USA), MARCH

23 (IANS): Two-time former champion Andy Murray suffered a 6-4, 7-5 defeat at the hands of Serbia’s Dusan Lajovic in the opening round of the Miami Open, here.

Wednesday’s match was Lajovic’s first career meeting with Murray, where he picked up his first hard-court win of the season. He will next play against American Maxime Cressy. Whoever wins might play World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in the third round.

Lajovic’s victory was underpinned by his strong performance on second serve against one of the game’s best returners. He won 72 percent of secondserve points and saved two of the three break points he faced, while converting all three opportunities on

Murray’s serve.

The Serbian failed to serve out the match at 5-4 but after missing two match points from 40/0 in the final game, he closed out the match when Murray framed a forehand at the end of an extended rally.

“When I didn’t close it out I thought it’s happening again. Honestly that last

B’desh beats Ireland by 10 wickets, takes ODI series

SYLHET (BANGLADESH), MAR 23 (AP):

Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud claimed his maiden five-for as Bangladesh defeated Ireland by 10 wickets and took the one-day international series 2-0 on Thursday.

Bangladesh won the first match by 183 runs for its largest ODI victory and the second match was washed out. This was the first time Bangladesh beat any team by 10 wickets.

Opting to bat first under overcast conditions, Ireland was bowled out for 101 in 28.1 overs.

The Bangladeshi pacers claimed all 10 wickets for the first time in its history. Hasan had figures of 5-32, Taskin Ahmed 3-26,

and Ebadot Hossain 2-29.

The hosts knocked off the target effortlessly, making 102 without loss in just 13.1 overs.

Liton Das was 50 not out off 38 balls after hitting 10 fours for his ninth fifty.

Skipper Tamim Iqbal hit the winning single in a runa-ball 41 that included five fours and two sixes.

Only two Ireland batters reached double figures: Curtis Campher made a team-best 36 and Lorcan Tucker added 28.

Hasan ran through the Ireland top order with an impressive display of pace bowling. Ireland was 22-3 in the ninth over when Taskin Ahmed got into the act.

NFA clarifies

DIMAPUR: Apropos the news item, “Football referee recruitment from April 11” published on March 23, Nagaland Football Association (NFA) has clarified that the line “class X passed and above 35 years of age,” should be read as “class X passed and below 35 years of age” and not as published. NFA has regretted the inadvertent error.

Nikhat will now face the two-time Asian champion Nguyen Thi Tam of Vietnam in the final on Sunday.

Later on Thursday, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) and three-time Asian medallist Saweety Boora (81kg) will be competing in their respective semi-finals bouts.

While Lovlina will face the 2018 World Champion and two-time Olympics medallist Li Qian of China, Saweety will square off against Emma-Sue Greentree of Australia.

TANGIER (MOROCCO), MARCH 23 (IANS): Forward Rony Barbosa described his Brazil call-up as a unique moment and promised to contribute in “some way” as he prepares to make his international debut against Morocco.

The 27-year-old Palmeiras attacker is among nine uncapped players in the Brazil squad for Saturday’s clash in Tangier and he is expected to be given at least some game time by interim manager Ramon Menezes, a Xinhua report said.

“I can’t believe I’m here with these players that I’ve only seen in video games,” Rony told reporters.

“I’ll try to contribute in some way, but the most important thing is the expe-

Two decisions involving captain Sunil Chhetri -- an apparent foul on him not given as a penalty in the first half and a goal disallowed for offside -- led Stimac to state, “For me, the result is 3-0, not 1-0. “I cannot say anything to my players as they did everything we agreed upon.

Goalkeeper Amrinder was excellent tonight, and Sunil was unfortunate not to score. He was hungry for goals and could’ve had a hat-trick,” said the Croatian in a release. While many would not have expected Chhetri to play the entire 90 minutes in Imphal just four days after a gruelling ISL final, the skipper’s hunger and determination to get back to national duty was what helped Stimac make

the decision.

“Sunil was the first player to make it to the camp after the ISL final. He did not waste a minute but rather rushed to join the national team. That proves his hunger and commitment.

He is one of the fittest players in the squad and can play continuously for three days,” the coach said.

In the pre-match press conference, Stimac said one of the elements of these friendlies will be to celebrate the players’ achievements in the ISL and recognise their good performances.

In line with that, he handed out three national

team debuts to Mehtab Singh, Naorem Mahesh Singh and Ritwik Kumar Das.

Mehtab, who was named in the starting XI, had a mixed debut according to Stimac.

“He was great but sometimes too nervous. But he will get used to the pressure as we only had one training session before the match.”

But the debutant who impressed the Croatian the most was Naorem Mahesh Singh, who was in fact a last-minute call-up due to Sivasakthi Narayanan’s withdrawal following injury.

Swiss Open: Sindhu, Srikanth, Prannoy advance to second round

BASEL (SWITZER

LAND), MARCH 23

(IANS): Indian badminton players PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth and HS Prannoy advanced to the second round of Swiss Open 2023 but compatriot Lakshya Sen crashed out in the opening round of the tournament, here.

Double Olympic medallist Sindhu, the reigning champion, defeated Switzerland’s Jenjira Stadelmann 21-9, 21-16 in a 32-minute affair on Wednesday night. She will play Indonesia’s Putri Kusuma Wardani next.

game I was super right at 40/0 and he was able to put pressure on me. Luckily, he shanked the last forehand, which he normally doesn’t do,” Lajovic was quoted as saying by ATP Tour.

The 32-year-old Serbian, who was once as high as No. 23 in the ATP Rankings, had won just four of 16 matches on hard courts since the start of 2022.

On the other hand, former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth progressed to the next round with a hard-fought 21-16, 15-21, 21-18 win over China’s Weng Hong Yang and set up a second round clash against Cheuk Yiu Lee.

In another men’s singles match, fifth-seeded HS Prannoy beat China’s

Shi Yu Qi with a 21-17, 1921, 21-17 win in a closelyfought tie which lasted for an hour.

Another Indian player, Mithun Manjunath reg-

istered a 21-8, 21-17 win over Joran Kweekel of the Netherlands to advance to the men’s singles prequarterfinals. He will face Chia Hao Lee of Chinese

Ronaldo opens up on Manchester United exit

NEW DELHI, MARCH 23 (IANS): Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has opened up on his controversial exit from Manchester United, admitting that he had never been through this phase in his career but “he is a better man” following his painful experience few months ago.

The Portugal international also said that it was a bad career decision to rejoin the United in 2021.

“Sometimes you have to go through some things to see who’s on my side. In a difficult phase, you can see who is on your side. I have no problem saying, I had a bad career run, but there’s no time for regrets,” Ronaldo said in a press conference ahead of Portugal’s upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers.

“Life goes on and, doing well or not, it was part of my growth. When we are

at the top of the mountain, we often cannot see what is below. Now I’m more prepared and that learning was important, because I had never been through this, like in the last few months. Now I’m a better man,” he added.

Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford for a second spell in 2021, after 12 years

away from United while playing for Real Madrid and Juventus.

But the arrival of Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford saw Ronaldo’s game time restricted, which led him to an explosive television interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticised the club.

The Portugal veteran’s contract with United was

terminated by mutual agreement in November last year, following his controversial interview with Morgan. And he went on to sign a massive deal with Saudi Pro League’s club Al-Nassr that will run until 2025.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo has been called up by Roberto Martinez after the new Portugal head coach announced his first squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is a very committed player. He can bring experience and is a very important figure for the team. I don’t look at age,” said Martinez. “Football decisions have to be taken on the field of play. I’m not an office decision-making coach. So, my starting point is to get to all the players and I want to get in touch with them,” he added.

AHF honours HI with best organiser award for 2023 FIH WC

NEW

DELHI, MAR 23

(PTI): Hockey India was on Thursday awarded with the Best Organiser Award by the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) for the successful hosting of the FIH Men’s World Cup in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela earlier this year.

The award was received by HI secretarygeneral Bhola Nath Singh during the AHF Congress held in Mungyeong, Korea.

While the Kalinga

Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar had previously hosted the FIH World Cup in 2018, the newly-constructed Birsa Munda Stadium in Rourkela caught the imagination of the hockey fraternity for its huge seating capacity.

The Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium also features an Olympic-style hockey village, which housed the participating teams, giving them the experience of a Games Village

at multi-discipline sporting events such as the Olympics, Commonwealth and Asian Games.

The tournament mascot, Olly, also created awareness about the endangered Olive Ridley Turtles.

“We are humbled and grateful for this incredible recognition by the Asian Hockey Federation. A World Cup at home is always special and for Hockey India, our top priority was to ensure everyone who

took part in it, be it the participating teams, officials or spectators have the most memorable experience,” HI president Dilip Tirkey said in a statement.

“Our endeavour wouldn’t have been possible without the continued support and vision of the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik, all the stakeholders and the numerous people who worked together to make this event a mega success,” he added.

Taipei next.

However, Commonwealth Games 2022 men’s champion Lakshya made a first round exit after losing 18-21, 11-21 to Hong

Kong’s Cheuk Yiu Lee, ranked 19th.

Meanwhile, Malvika Bansod lost 14-21, 15-21 to Korea’s Kim Ga Eun while Aakarshi Kashyap was handed a 21-15, 2117 defeat by Germany’s Yvonne Li in the women’s singles events. Kiran George, however, lost his men’s singles tie to bow out.

In the women’s doubles, the Indian pair of N Sikki Reddy and Arathi Sara Sunil crashed out in the opening round, losing 12-21, 14-21 against Japan’s Sayaka Hobara and Yui Suizu. Reddy also lost her mixed doubles match, partnering Rohan Kapoor.

On the other hand, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, India’s top pair in men’s doubles, defeated the Malaysian pair of Xin Yuan Boon and Tien Ci Wong 21-15, 21-18 to stay in the hunt for a medal.

Rohit on Surya’s scores

CHENNAI, MAR 23

(PTI): Considered one of the best players in the T20 format, Suryakumar Yadav registered three successive golden ducks against Australia, but captain Rohit Sharma hinted that the Indian team management is not looking too much into his failures in the ODI series.

The 32-year-old Suryakumar was trapped by Australian left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc in the first two ODIs. The team management backed him and included him in the playing XI for the series-decider here on Wednesday, but he was again dismissed first ball, this time by left-arm spinner Ashton Agar.

“He (Suryakumar) played only three balls in the series. I don’t know how much you can look into it. He got three good balls,” Rohit said after India lost the third and final ODI by 21 runs to concede the series 1-2 to Australia.

“(On Wednesday) I didn’t think it was that great a ball. He just chose the wrong shot. He should have, maybe, come forward. He knows best.”

Suryakumar has featured in 23 ODIs after his debut in July 2021, scoring 433 runs at a below-par average of 24.05.

Rohit said Suryakumar was initially slotted to bat at number 5 but the team management held him back to face the Australian attack in the last 15-20 overs. Suryakumar actually came out at number 7.

“He plays spin really well which is why we wanted to hold him back and give him the last 1520 overs where he could play his game. But it’s really unfortunate he could only play three balls in the series. That can happen to anyone. The potential, the quality, is always there. He is just going through that (lean) phase right now.

“Once we played the first 10 overs, the ball did not swing at all. There was no question of swing where Surya could be troubled or anything like that. It was a tactical move. We wanted to use his potential at the back end along with Hardik. These two players would have been ideal for us but unfortunately they got out.”

Rony Barbosa

You can’t look much into it:

Rohit Sharma

Sindhu, the reigning champion, defeated Switzerland’s Jenjira Stadelmann 21-9, 21-16

Igor Stimac

Nikhat Zareen (left) reacts after winning her 48kg-50kg (Light Flyweight) category match and Nitu (right) reacts after winning her 45-48kg category semifinals. (PTI)

Andy Murray’s Wimbledon campaign is over after John Isner defeated him (Image by GETTY)

Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud (2L) celebrates after taking the wicket of Ireland’s Graham Hume (not pictured)

Cristiano Ronaldo