21 May

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DIMAPUR, FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021 Pages 8 ` 4.00

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Notify ‘black fungus’ under Epidemic Diseases Act: Centre tells State govts

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (AGENCIES): India is now officially in the midst of two epidemics after the central government asked states to make mucormycosis a notifiable disease Wednesday.

A notifiable disease means the government has to be mandatorily informed about any case that is detected. Among the other notifiable diseases in the country are tuberculosis, cholera and diphtheria.

The Union Health Ministry has urged states and union territories to make ‘black fungus’ or mucormycosis a notifiable disease under the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, stating that the infection is leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality amongst COVID19 patients.

The ministry, in a letter, said that in the recent times a new challenge in the form of a fungal infection namely mucormycosis has emerged and is reported from many states amongst COVID-19 patients, especially those on steroid therapy and deranged sugar control.

Army chief in Nagaland to review security situation D I M A P U R , M AY 2 0 (NPN): Ar my General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Thursday arrived in Dimapur as part of a one-day visit to review security and operational preparedness.

According to Army sources, Gen. Naravane will reviewed the operational preparedness of the Army and meet senior officials at the 3 (Spear) Corps headquarters at Rangapahar, Dimapur. He will be briefed by Lt. Gen. JP Mathew, the Commander of Spear Corps, which is responsible for counter-insurgency operations in Northeast and along the boundary with China. After halting for the night at Rangapahar, the Army chief will depart for Delhi on Friday.

Govt gives deadline to FCRA account holders

Spl. Correspondent

sPorts, Page 8

Aerosols carrying Covid virus can travel in air up to 10m, says Centre the spread of the novel coronavirus, it says “just as smells can be diluted from the air through opening windows and doors and using exhaust systems, ventilating spaces with improved directional airflow decreases the accumulated viral land in the air, reducing the risk of transmission.”

It further advised introducing outdoor air in offices, homes and larger public spaces and said measures to improve ventilation in these spaces must be taken up on urgent priority in urban and rural areas alike.

“Recommendations for hutments, homes, offices and large centralised buildings are given. Simple strategic placement of fans, open windows and doors, even slightly open windows can introduce outdoor air and improve the air quality inside. The introduction of cross ventilation and exhaust fans will be beneficial in curtailing the spread of the disease,” it stated.

In buildings with central air-management systems, improving central air filtration or increased filtration efficiency is especially helpful when enhanced out-

door air delivery options are limited.

The advisory recommended the use of gable fan systems and roof ventilators in offices, auditoriums, shopping malls and other closed public spaces. “Frequent cleaning and replacement of filters is highly recommended,” it said.

The release stated that saliva and nasal discharged in the form of droplets and aerosols, by an infected person while exhaling, talking, speaking, singing, laughing, coughing or sneezing is the primary mode of virus transmissions, and an infected person who shows no symptoms also transmit the virus.

Notably, the SARSCoV-2 virus infects a human host where it can multiply, in the absence of the host it cannot survive, and stopping the transmission of the virus from a person to another person will decrease the infection rate of the disease to a level where it can eventually die. “People without symptoms can spread the virus. People should continue wearing a mask, wear double masks or an N95 mask,” it added.

letter stated.

Mucormycosis, more commonly known as black fungus, has increasingly been reported across the country, especially in diabetic patients who have been put on steroids after testing positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

There are concerns also about the quality of water used in oxygen concentrators that are being used in small medical establishments or at home. Many states such as Telangana and Rajasthan have already made it a notifiable disease.

“In recent times a new challenge in the form of a fungal infection namely mucormycosis has emerged and is reported from many states amongst COVID-19 patients especially those on steroid therapy deranged sugar control. This fungal infection is leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality amongst COVID-19 patients,” noted Agarwal in the letter.

Mucormycosis a rare infection: Mucormycosis is a serious infection but is

usually rare. However, the numbers of cases in India during the second wave of the pandemic are threatening to overwhelm hospitals, especially because when the disease enters a hospital with piped oxygen supply, infection in one patient may quickly spread to all those that are on the same gas line.

The infection is often fatal when it spreads to the brain. The symptoms of mucormycosis infection in the lung are often the same as that of Covid-19 — fever, cough, shortness of breath and could aggravate the condition of a patient.

“Disseminated mucormycosis typically occurs in people who are already sick from other medical conditions, so it can be difficult to know which symptoms are related to mucormycosis. Patients with disseminated infection in the brain can develop mental status changes or coma,” notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the national public health agency of the US.

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (AGENCIES): Cautioning people to maintain social distance to prevent the transmission of the Covid-19 virus, the office of the principal scientific adviser to the Government of India on Thursday said that aerosols, one of the key transmission mode of the SARS-CoV-2, can travel in the air up to 10 metres.

“Aerosols and droplets are key transmission mode of the Covid-19 virus, and while droplets fall within 2 metres from an infected person, aerosols can be carried in the air up to 10 metres,” an advisory said.

The “Stop the Transmission, Crush the Pandemic - Masks, distance, sanitation and ventilation to prevent the spread of SARSCoV-2 virus” advisory highlights the important role well-ventilated spaces play in diluting the viral load of infected air in poorly ventilated houses, offices and other closes spaces and said ventilation can decrease the risk of transmission from one infected person to the other.

Calling ventilation “a community defence” against

State logs 326 new cases, 11 Covid deaths

Cyclone ‘Yaas’: NE to experience heavy rainfall

DoNER minister warns against self-styled remedy for COVID-19

STEPS TO PREVENT MUCORMYCOSIS Keep blood sugar under check Covid or no Covid Use steroids judiciously while treating Covid Use clean water in humidifier used for O2 support Maintain overall cleanliness around patients Any oral ulcer should be treated immediately (Source: Times Now)

“This fungal infection is leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality amongst COVID 19 patients,” Joint Secretary in the health ministry Lav Agarwal said in the letter.

The treatment of this fungal infection requires multidisciplinary approach consisting of eye surgeons, ENT specialists, general surgeon, neurosurgeon and dental maxillo facial surgeon, among others, and institution of Amphotericin-B injection as an antifungal medicine.

“You are requested to make mucormycosis a notifiable disease under the Epi-

demic Diseases Act, 1897, wherein all government and private health facilities, medical colleges will follow guidelines for screening, diagnosis, management of mucormycosis, issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (Gol) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

“And, make it mandatory for all these facilities to report all suspected and confirmed cases to health department through district-level chief medical officer and subsequently to Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) surveillance system,” the

D I M A P U R , M AY 2 0 COVID-19 STATUS AS ON MAY 20, 2021 (NPN): Nagaland on ThursACTIVE CASES day recorded 326 fresh Symptomatic Non Covid Covid-19 positive cases and Deaths MiAsevere ModRecovTotal District ymperate ICU ICU ered Death with grat- Cases 11 deaths.

On Covid 19 ed tom- Mild On (without (On Of the fresh cases, DiPositivity atic Oxy- Oxy- ventila- ventigen gen mapur reported 161 cases, tor) lator 13 7401 173 10 454 10593 Kohima- 100, Tuensang- 16, Dimapur 2250 140 61 56 35 Kiphire 33 4 0 0 0 0 42 1 0 0 80 Zunheboto- 14, MokokcKohima 1332 18 11 6 3 1 4519 40 0 92 6022 hung and Mon- 12 each, sev0 0 28 0 0 10 80 en in Phek, two in Wokha Longleng 31 11 0 0 0 0 246 7 0 19 374 and one each in Longleng Mokokchung 88 12 2 0 Mon 150 5 1 0 0 0 626 2 1 12 797 and Peren, taking the total Peren 20 1 0 0 0 0 524 0 0 2 547 caseload to 19284.

Phek 46 0 0 0 0 0 72 2 0 0 120 The death toll also Tuensang 80 4 0 1 0 0 280 2 0 2 369 climbed to 245 after 10 Wokha 28 3 0 0 0 0 39 2 0 2 74 patients succumbed to the Zunheboto 69 0 0 4 0 0 147 5 0 3 228 infection in Dimapur and Total 4127 198 75 67 38 14 13924 234 11 596 19284 one in Kohima (234 Covid *11 deaths not due to Covid-19 *0 deaths under investigation deaths and 11 non-Covid but with Covid positivity). 252357 persons have been in- includes 198426 first dose Meanwhile, a total of oculated against Covid, that and 53931 second dose.

India records over 2.76L cases; daily deaths below 4,000 PTI: With 2,76,110 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, India’s tally of COVID-19 cases climbed to 2,57,72,440 while the daily deaths were recorded below 4,000 after four days, taking the toll to 2,87,122, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

A total of 3,874 fatalities due to COVID-19 were

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (NPN): The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has permitted existing Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) account holders to open their “FCRA Account” in the New Delhi Main Branch (NDMB) of the State Bank of India (SBI), 11 Sansad Marg, New Delhi – 110001 up to June 30, PUNE, MAY 20 (AGEN2021.

(Cont’d on p-5) CIES): Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved the self-use Rapid Antigen Test for Covid-19 developed by Mylab Discovery Solutions. The test is developed in India and is named as CoviSelf.

The self-use test can be used by symptomatic individuals and immediate contacts of confirmed cases as per ICMR guidelines.

Users of this test will not need sample collection by a healthcare professional, an official statement issued today has said. Advising against the indiscriminate “She’s a die-hard shopper. use of the kits, ICMR has Refuses to order things reiterated that all symptomthrough home delivery atic individuals who test boy.” negative by RAT should

registered in a span of 24 hours.

The active cases have further reduced to 31,29,878, comprising 12.14 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 86.74 per cent, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to

2,23,55,440, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.11 per cent, the data stated.

Meanwhile, over than 20.55 lakh COVID-19 tests were conducted in a span of 24 hours, the highest-ever conducted in a single day in India, while the daily positivity rate stands at 13.44 per cent, the Union Health Ministry said on Thursday.

GUWAHATI MAY 20 (AGENCIES): Ahead of Cyclone Yaas predicted to hit the East coast of India on May 26, the National Weather Forecasting Centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warning bulletin for thunderstorm, lightning and rains for East and North East India over the next two days.

IMD said, thunderstorm with lightning and gusty wind (speed reaching 30-40 kmph) very likely at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, Gangetic West Bengal, Kerala, Mahe & Lakshadweep.

India Meteorological Department’s regional met centre in Guwahati has issued thunderstorm warnings over most parts of Assam. Further, parts of Arunachal Pradesh and parts of Nagaland will also be affected by isolated heavy rainfall in this forecast period.

ICMR okays home-based Covid-19 testing kit

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get themselves immediately tested by RTPCR Each kit will be provided with all testing materials, instructions to use (IFU) leaflet, and a biohazard bag to safely dispose of it after testing. The test is designed to be done using a nasal swab (not the deep nasopharyngeal swab) to reduce the discom-

fort. CoviSelf will provide results in 15 min. Those who test negative and continue to experience COVIDlike symptoms should seek follow-up care from their healthcare provider.

The test is priced at Rs 250 and the company will start shipping out tests within a few days.

“This is the biggest crisis our country has ever faced. CoviSelf will help in saving lives. For India, we will make millions of kits available at fraction of the cost of such kits in the US,” Hasmukh Rawal, Managing Director of Mylab Discovery Solutions said.

“This easy-to-use test combines with Myab’s AIpowered mobile app so that a user can know his/her positive status, submit the result to ICMR directly for traceability, and know what to do next in either case of result. We are sure this small step will be a big leap in mitigating the second and subsequent waves, ” said Sujit Jain, Director at Mylab Discovery Solutions.

Spl. Correspondent

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (NPN): Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Dr Jitendra Singh Thursday warned against self-styled remedy to treat COVID19.

Chairing a meeting about an awareness campaign for the officers and staff of DoNER in Delhi, Dr Singh advised for professional medical consultation for infected persons.

He also asked the common man not to share information on Covid remedies without checking the facts.

Singh said he was taking daily updates from all the eight North Eastern States about the prevalence of Covid and necessary heath facilities and infrastructure to fight the pandemic in an effective manner.

He expressed satisfaction that all the North Eastern states have sufficient oxygen stock and new plants are also being set up on a war footing.

DoNER minister said that his ministry and NEC were taking proactive steps in supplementing and augmenting the Covid related infrastructure. He further asked the North Eastern States to send Covid and

Health related proposals on a priority basis and promised for speedy disposal of such proposals at the Centre. He said that the ministry would soon revert back to fresh proposals received from Manipur and Mizoram regarding setting up of 100 bedded hospitals to augment the admission capacity.

Dr. Singh recalled that the united fund of Rs.25 crore given to North Eastern States last March for gap funding to fight the Covid-19 outbreak effectively has proved a boon for many states for purchase of vital health equipment in many hospitals.

NU to hold UG exams from May 27 online D I M A P U R , M AY 2 0 (NPN): In view of the surge in Covid-19 cases, the Nagaland University has decided to conduct the under graduate exams via online mode from May 27.

In a notification, controller of examinations, Dr Moasangba stated that the online exams will be held for 2nd, 4th, 6th and 5th semester (Supplementary), subject to approval or ratification by the Academic Council.

The decision was made based on the state government’s April 29 order and in compliance with the March 23 notification issued by the

Union Home Secretary.

Colleges have been asked to ensure that exams forms are duly filled and submitted to the University in time and necessary fees paid before issue of admit cards.

It also said that the exam forms can be downloaded from the university website and fees can be paid online.

In another notification deputy registrar N Albert Khizho has asked colleges to list all eligible students appearing for the online exams along with their address, phone number (preferably

WhatsApp No.), email address (only Gmail), location to appear exams, nearest district administration (DC/ ADC/SDO/EAC) office having NIC/Community Information Centre/Community Service Centre etc. to facilitate students who do not have access to internet facilities.

Meanwhile, principal secretary (Home) R. Ramakrishnan has written to all the deputy commissioners to issue special permits to teachers and staff of colleges to facilitate their movement for the smooth conduct of the exams.

DoSE issues guidelines for online classes DIMAPUR, MAY 20 (NPN): A day after the High Powered Committee (HPC) decided to allow resumption of online classes from May 24 after completion of summer break, the state department of school education (DoSE) Thursday has notified detailed standard operating procedure (SoP) for the all the schools (both government and private) functioning within the State. The department has informed that conduct of regular classes through normal mode would remain suspended until further notice.

According to the department’s directive, the duration for online classes for pre-

primary students should not be for more than 30 minutes per day. For classes I-VIII, two online sessions of 45 minutes each or three online sessions of 30 minutes each per day and for classes IX-XII, four sessions of 30-45 minutes each per day would be conducted.

The department has suggested that teachers and students could make use of the video lessons broadcasted for classes V-XII during the lockdown period 2020, available in department’s Youtube Channel (DoSE Nagaland) and Facebook Page (School Edu(Cont’d on p-5) cation, Nagaland).

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nagalandpost.com Poll Q . : Besides lockdown should the govt increase testing even at random?

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

Tongpang inspects quarantine centre

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A

B

A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

C

84% 16% 0%

Next Poll

Q: Are present covid beds

planned in Dimapur sufficient to meet the growing demands?

(L-R) Legislators in-charge for Kohima District, Medo Yhokha, Dr. Neikiesalie Nicky Kire and Tongpang Ozukum during their inspection of jubilee memorial hall.

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST MAy 21

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Mostly sunny and humid

35 26

Aizawl

Sun and some clouds

30 20

Guwahati Humid; a morning thunderstorm 34 24 Imphal

Clearing

31 20

Itanagar

A shower and thunderstorm

28 22

Shillong

A thunderstorm in spots

24 18

Kohima

A morning t-storm in the area

25 18

Dimapur

Some rain and a thunderstorm 34 24

Mkg

A t-storm around in the a.m.

27 19

Tuensang Partly sunny; a stray t-storm

20 15

A t-storm around in the a.m.

26 21

Wokha

Zunheboto A morning t-storm in spots

24 17

NagalaNd Post, Dimapur FriDaY, maY 21, 2021

DIMAPUR: Minister and Kohima DTF in-charge, Tongpang Ozukum along with a host of officials visited Jubilee Memorial Center (JMC) at Lerie colony on Thursday. JMC which was granted to Kohima DTF by Kohima Ao Baptist Arogo (KABA), to be utilised as quarantine centre for Nagaland Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) health care workers.

In a press release, press secretary to the minister stated that during

the inspection, Tongpang Ozukum thanked KABA on behalf of Kohima DTF and the government for granting JMC. The minister said that in 2020, KABA allowed Kohima STF to utilise the facility for almost five months, which he said was a relief for DTF and the government.

He said that the charitable offer of the facility to DTF showed their concern for the people and their commitment to fight the

pandemic.

Meanwhile, advisor and member DTF Kohima, Medo Yhokha thanked KABA on behalf of the government and the citizens for coming forward with their “charitable initiatives towards humanity”.

He shared his concerns about certain individuals who were constantly critical on the efficacies of the state government and other frontline institutes on handling the current pandemic.

The advisor stated that the fight to overcome the pandemic has to be everybody’s fight and not the responsibility of the health institutes and government alone.

“Until and unless every citizen comes together, shouldering a common responsibility, no government or authority will be able to effectively control this pandemic as the behavior of the people will decide the course of these trying times”, Yhokha stated.

While applauding the contribution by KABA, various churches and NGOs, he welcomed other stakeholders of the district in sharing a “responsibility”.

Advisor and Kohima DTF member, Dr. Nicky Kire also expressed his gratitude to KABA in coming up with the concept of constructing a building which would cater to all in times of need.

The minister was accompanied by Dr. Nicky Kire, Medo Yhokha, finance secretary and nodal officer, DTF Kohima, Kesonyu Yhome, NHAK medical superintendent, Dr. Senti and other officials from the medical fraternity.

NPF minority wing, SKUD mourn

DIMAPUR: NPF minority wing, central and Sapotimi Kughuko Union Dimapur (SKUD) have expressed grief over the demise of NPF Dimapur division general secretary and GB of Hetoi village, Itokhu Chophy, who passed away on Thursday.

In a condolence note, NPF minority wing, central through its president Bishnu Bhattacharjee described late Itokhu as a loyal, hardworking humble leader and a good human. NPF minority wing central and division extended its condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed to the Almighty for the departed soul to rest in peace.

Meanwhile, SKUD while expressing shock over the sudden demise said that his untimely demise had left a vacuity in their hearts In a condolence note, SKUD president Vitoho Chophy and assistant general secretary Ikato Y Kiho said that it would remember all his good deeds for the welfare of SKUD and society in general.

Further, SKUD conveyed its condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed.

Trg on management of mild COVID-19 symptoms DIMAPUR: To further enhance the capacity of Church and community leaders, training on “management of mild COVID19 symptoms at home” to the rural communities covering all villages across the state commenced from May 20.

In a press release, state program manager and nodal person for NSRLM on COVID-19, Khriezovonuo Lhoungu Doulo informed that this was initiated to disseminate correct information to the villages and enhance community participation in managing the pandemic through closely working with the health and family welfare department, social welfare department and Churches in Nagaland.

The release stated that majority of COVID-19 cases had mild symptoms that can be managed at home by following simple

precautions and treatment regimens.

In this regard, the training focuses on appropriate home management, recognition of worsening of symptoms, access to medical facilities for timely interventions, apprehensions and myths, while also ensuring COVID-19 vaccine awareness, appropriate behaviour, health seeking behaviour, and immunity building measures among the r ural populace.

Training at community level began in these lines through the NSRLM community institutions.

To further minimise the risk of infection at the villages, the state government has also instructed the DTF for effective community surveillance system through ASHA workers, anganwadi workers, SHGs and other community based organisation (CBOs).

5th DEATH ANNIVERSARY of Lt. N. YANCHAMO OVUNG

SF recover illegal liquor; apprehend four Webinar on violence against women

Apprehended persons along with the recovered illegal liquor.

DIMAPUR: Security forces in a joint operation with the state police apprehended four individuals on charges of possessing illegal liquor at Nihokhu and Eros Line, Dimapur on May 18.

According to PRO IGAR (N), based on a specific input, the joint team appre-

hended four individuals and recovered illegal liquor worth Rs 7.2 lakh (approx) at Nihokhu and Eros Line, Dimapur.

The apprehended individuals along with the recovered liquor were handed over to east police station, Dimapur for further investigation, PRO informed.

DIMAPUR: Department of English, Kohima College, Kohima (KCK) organised a two-day international webinar on “violence against women & women’s writing in English in Nagaland” on May 19 and 20.

A press release by KCK mass media cell stated that the inaugural session was chaired by KCK assistant professor Dr. Konei Nakhro and the keynote address was delivered by senior lecturer, anthropology & development studies program, University of Melbourne, Dr. Dolly Kikon.

Meanwhile, KCK associate professor & HOD, department of English, Megovono Üsou delivered the welcome address and introductory note was presented by webinar convener,

KCK assistant professor Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu. A total of 15 papers were presented by eminent writers, scholars, activists, faculty spread across India and outside in four sessions, followed by Q&A/discussion rounds after each session.

The webinar concluded with a valedictory speech by moral, head, Centre for Women’s Studies & Associate Professor, department of English, Cotton University

DP-2479

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DP-2481

“I HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT, I HAVE FINISHED THE RACE, I HAVE KEPT THE FAITH”.

2 TIMOTHY – 4:7

Loving Son, Daughters, Grand-sons In-laws and Relatives.

21st May 2016

Dear Apo,

Days and Years are slowly going on, Your sweet memories never gone by We are counting every day.

The good thing you have done for us Never to be forgotten or erased in our hearts.

We deeply miss you.

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Loving Wife, Children, Grand-children and In-Laws

AC K N OW L E D G E M E N T

OBITUARY Our Mother and Grandmother left for her Heavenly abode to live in the hearts of all she loved. We are forever blessed by the impact of her prayerful life lived with great integrity and grace. She remained a tireless servant of the Lord till her last breath and though she has left us, her words and deeds will remain a guiding light for all the lives she touched.

We a r e t r u l y h u m b l e d a n d deeply grateful to the PASTORS DABA, UBMC, TOWN NEPALI BAPTIST CHURCH DUNCAN, H E A L I N G M I N I S T RY F O R HANICAPPED PEOPLE, NOKPU SENSO TELONGJEM DIMAPUR, DOCTORS & STAFF OF EDEN AND ZION HOSPITALS, FAMILIES, FRIENDS, NEIGHBOURS, CLOSE ASSOCIATES AND WELL-WISHERS from far and near for your immense prayers, presence, emotional and financial supports and kind words LATE TIALA AIER BORN ON : 3RD MARCH 1948 of comfort during our darkest hour.

DIED ON : 4TH MAY 2021 Words are inadequate to express our sincerest gratitude to each and everyone of you individually but it is our earnest prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly in return with His abiding love.

Dearest Mummy! Silently you have departed from us and your demise have left us shattered with sense of inexplicable loss and void yet, the fact that you are now with Our Heavenly Father is the source of our comfort.

professor Rakhee Kalita and vote of thanks was delivered

by KCK assistant professor Khriezenuo Vizo.

It may be mentioned that the webinar was conducted with an aim to address the issues of violence against women in the society, to broaden the understanding of what constituted violence against women and to discuss ways to end violence against women and achieve gender equity.

The bereaved family members of Late Ajangto, Nokpu express our sincere gratitude for the prayer and love support in the time of grief at the loss of our father.

We gracefully offer our heartfelt thanks to all officers and staff of Directorate of Treasuries and Accounts, Nagaland ; Kohima, doctors and nurses, churches, unions, especially thanks to those individuals near and far who stood by us spiritually, physically and financially during the prolonged ailment and demise of our beloved father on 18th May 2021. Though we deeply regret our inability to thank each and every individual, your precious help will never be forgotten and prays our Almighty God bless you abundantly.

We deeply acknowledge and will cherish your act of kindness.

With Prayer Loving Wife, Children, Mother and Family members 06/05/1967 – 18/05/2021

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT As we struggle to embrace and unwillingly coerce ourselves to accept the heart-breaking and sudden loss of our most beloved Mother, Wife and Grandmother (Lt. Elizabeth Merry) who left us on May 18’ 2021, we are profoundly grateful to all of her friends, family members, relatives, villagers, churches, neighbours, well-wishers and all those who stood by us in every way and wholeheartedly prayed for her with full devotion.

We thank Mr. Neiphiu Rio, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Nagaland; President NDPP Mr. Chingwang Konyak and family, and all rank and file of NDPP. We also express our gratitude to all the doctors, nurses and staff of Faith Hospital, Dimapur for giving your best and going the extra mile while treating her.

Last but not least, we thank the Asso. Pastor, DLBC Mr. Yambemo Lotha, Rev. Moses Murry, the Dimapur DTF and SDRF Dimapur for all the help rendered to us as we finally laid her to “Rest in Eternal Peace”.

We are unable to thank each and every individual and organizations, but pray that the good Lord bless each one of you abundantly.

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- Loving Husband, Children, Grandchildren, In-laws and Relatives

LATE ELIZABETH MERRY (SEPTEMBER 19, 1956 – MAY 18, 2021) K Y M C

NagalaNd Post, Dimapur FriDaY, maY 21, 2021

M’laya logs single-day spike of over 1,000 Covid-19 cases Situation “unprecedented”, likely to become worSe: Hek

Correspondent SHILLONG, MAY 20: Meghalaya on Thursday recorded the highest ever single-day spike of 1,183 new Covid cases, since the onset of the pandemic in April last year, pushing the number of active cases up to 6,477, health officials said.

The State also reported 10 new Covid deaths in the past 24-hours, mounting the death toll to 389, while the number of recovered patients has gone up to 20,061 with 465 patients declared recovered from the viral infection as on Wednesday.

Terming the COVID19 situation in the State as “unprecedented”, Health and Family Welfare Minister, Alexander Laloo Hek said, “it is likely to become worse”, and urged the citizens to extend their coop-

eration with the government to stem the COVID-19 infection.

East Khasi Hills, which includes the State capital Shillong, is the worst-hit Coronavirus district in Meghalaya with 3,755 active cases and 324 deaths as on date.

A total lockdown and total curfew has been imposed for the next ten days to break the transmission chain in East Khasi Hills district, even as hospitals are overwhelmed in the district, health officials said.

“The next ten days is very crucial for all of us and we should isolate ourselves during this lockdown period in our efforts to flatten the COVID-19 curve,” Hek said. “ T h e g ove r n m e n t alone cannot win this war against this unknown enemy but we can defeat it only if the people cooperate with

the government by strictly adhering to the guidelines issued by the government to contain the spread of the infection,” the health minister underscored.

Hek also voiced his appreciation to various social groups and the influential Dorbar Shnong (Village Council) in various localities for setting up Corona Care Centre for mild symptomatic COVID positive patients who need medical attention, or cannot stay at home.

Meanwhile, Director Health Services (MI), Dr. Aman War informed that the 10 new fatalities reported in the past 24 hours, includes six in East Khasi Hills district and one death each in West Garo Hills district, South West Garo Hills district, North Garo Hills district and South Garo Hills district, health officials said.

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Northeast/state

Assam: Man arrested 3-day Assam Assembly session from today for pretending to be DM GUWAHATI MAY 20 (AGENCIES): Assam police detained a man professing to be the magistrate of Titabar from Jorhat on May 19, The Sentinel Assam reported.

The man, identified as Biswajit Dutta, had a printout in front of a car he rented to attend his girlfriend’s birthday party in Dhekiajuli, Assam, that read “District Magistrate”, while he also deceived the driver by promising to pay him while he was on the job.

“I took him to a birthday party and he told me he will stay there. I was asked to go back and he called me again and I took him to many areas. My overall oil expenses were around Rs. 5000,” said the driver.

Biswajit Dutta, the accused, was arrested by Chinamara police after claiming to be the magistrate of Titabar at Chinamara police station.

“As per information, he visits PS and takes pho-

The accused, Biswajit Dutta (The Sentinel Assam)

tos of him and tries to establish the links with the police so that he can blackmail shopkeepers later who violate lockdown protocols and take money from them,” said an official from the Chinamara PS to media.

Dutta further has history of perpetrating acts of this nature. He claimed to be a Juvenile Lawyer and member of District Child Protection Service.

During the first lockdown in 2020, he pretended to be a doctor and even sold tobacco items.

The inquiry was still ongoing, and more information was expected soon.

GUWAHATI MAY 20 (AGENCIES/PTI): The first sitting of the 15th Assam Legislative Assembly would begin on Friday, May 21, The Sentinel Assam Reported.

The session summoned by Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi would be for three days.

On the first day of the session, all newly elected 126 MLAs would be administered the oath of secrecy.

On second day, May 22, Governor would address the Assembly and on May 24, the concluding day of the three-day Assembly session, motion of thanks for Governor’s speech has been scheduled.

May 23 is Sunday therefore there will be no sitting of the Assembly.

AGP leader, former Assam Minister for Food and Civil Supplies and 8-time MLA from Bongaigaon, Phani Bhushan Choudhury would be the pro-tem speaker.

Choudhury was administered oath of secrecy on Wednesday by Assam

chief secretary Jishnu Baruah in absence of the Governor.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had

designated Choudhury as protem speaker. This will be the first Assembly session after the Assam Assembly elections of 2021.

Biswajit Daimary files nomination for Speaker’s post

(L-R) Biswajit Daimary and Numal Momin

BJP MLA Biswajit Daimary on Thursday submitted his nomination paper for the post of the Speaker of the Assam assembly. Saffron party legislator Numal Momin will submit his papers for the Deputy Speaker’s post. Daimary filed his nomination in presence of chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and BJP state president Ranjeet Kumar Dass.

Earlier in the day, the BJP in a meeting chose Daimary to be the next Speaker and Momin as the Deputy Speaker for the 15th Assam legislative assembly, the first session of which will begin from Friday.

In February, Daimary was re-elected to the Rajya Sabha after he switched sides to the BJP from the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF). He contested the assembly polls from the Panery constituency and won by a margin of 35,852 votes.

Local priest shot dead in KA Rights group urges PM for probe into graft in Manipur tribal councils

Correspondent

DIPHU, MAY 20: A community priest and prominent social worker of Dhansiri locality of Karbi Anglong district, Sanjay Ronghang was shot dead by suspected armed ultras on Wednesday evening.

Ronghang was a BJP party worker, who played active role in securing the party base in the bordering area.

He was also a close political associate of Tuliram Ronghang, chief executive member of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council.

“We are zeroing near the position of the suspects and hope to deliver a positive result very soon, the terrain is difficult and providing some kind of advantage to the militant groups” Pushpraj Singh SP Karbi Anglong told this correspondent.

According to local police, an unidentified number of miscreants with sophisticated weapons attacked the residence of Ronghang located in Daujifung village on a hillock. The place of incident is within close proximity of Dhansiri police station.

IMPHAL, MAY 20 (AGENCIES): A Manipur-based rights group has sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi into large-scale corruption in the State’s tribal councils with the police investigation into the nexus between members of these councils and extremists making no headway, The Hindu report stated.

Attaching relevant documents, the Movement for People’s Rights Forum, Manipur (MPRFM) had a few days ago written to the Prime Minister underlining the misappropriation of Rs. 143.77 crore across six

autonomous district councils (ADCs) in Chandel, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Senapati, Tamenglong and Ukhrul.

The MPRFM said the Centre had been providing funds to these ADCs for the all-round development of districts. But Rs. 143.77 crore sanctioned in 2017-18 by the 14th Finance Commission was “misappropriated and wrongfully utilised by the public servants in connivance with the elected members” of the respective ADCs. The projects such as inter-village roads, water reservoirs, public toilets,

street lighting, playgrounds and improvement of primary schools awarded to a coterie were never executed, the MPRFM said.

The memorandum, signed by MRPFM convener Gonmei Kiropou and secretary P.R. Amos, cited several instances of corruption and sought an investigation by agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation since the Centre directly finds the ADCs. Manipur-based rights activist Wahengbam Joykumar Singh said the nexus between the elected ADC members and ultras came to the fore in August 2020

when the NSCN (I-M) issued a notification ordering all activists to withdraw their RTI applications against the Senapati ADC members.

“At least three RTI activists from the hills have taken refuge in Imphal but that does not insulate them from any harm,” Singh told The Hindu, adding that he had on May 15 lodged a complaint with the State’s Director-General of Police against NSCN (I-M) and Senapati ADC chief Khapudang for threatening four RTI users with death.

He had lodged a similar complaint with the IG As-

sam Rifles (South) on April 29 and the Director-General of the National Investigation Agency on May 9. On April 24, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had registered his complaint against the threat to the four Senapati-based villagers who used RTI to seek details about expenditure on public projects.

The four are Kh. Enoch of Phaibung village, P. Johnson Samo of Taphou Phyamai, S.P. Benjamin of Ngari Raidulomai, and P.R. Amos of Khabung Khunou village.

The NSCN (I-M) “arrested” Enoch, tortured him in confinement for eight days and

even extracted a fine of Rs. 1.5 lakh from him, Singh said in the complaint.

On April 26, the Manipur Information Commission cited the complaint lodged with the NHRC and asked the State police chief to “examine the veracity” of reports of intimidation of RTI users in Senapati district.

Officials in Imphal said Senapati district had been investigating into the complaints but they had not received any feedback due to the lockdown. The Manipur police are reportedly ineffective in areas controlled by the NSCN (I-M).

state

COVID-19 pandemic: Advisories, Issues over management of quarantine centre at Meriema information and random testing Correspondent

DIMAPUR: The state government and its agencies have been issuing advisories and information to mitigate the spread of the virus. The medical department along with the district task forces (DTF) has also been conducting random testing in order to check and stop further community spread.

Kiphire: Truenat machine and Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) were launched at Pungro town on Thursday, in the presence of district administration, medical department and various NGOs of Pungro.

According to DIPR report, while speaking at the occasion, EAC Pungro, Nuhuta Tunyi called upon the public and government agencies for concerted effort in the fight against COVID-19.

While expressing gratitude to the government for installing Truenat machine at Pungro, YTC executive chairman, Y. Shelimthong stated that it would aid in monitoring and handling of COVID-19 situation under Pungro area.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by MO CHC Pungro, Dr. Bipen while the keynote address was delivered

by MO, Dr. Sikulimew. The Truenat machines were dedicated by Pungro Town Baptist Church Pastor, Tsuyihba.

Dimapur: Out of 116 random samples tested from around Dimapur and Chümoukedima area here Thursday, 19 samples were tested positive.

According to the random testing report, the random testing was collected from unity village, Naga united and Diphupar under Chümoukedima area where 16 samples were tested positive.

Meanwhile, at town area, the samples were collected from PWD and Lingrijan. Out of 66 samples, three were tested positive. (Staff Reporter) K Y M C

Kohima: DC Kohima, Gregor y Thejawelie has informed that the following are dedicated helpline

numbers (24x7) for all public and private facilities engaged in COVID-19 care in Kohima:

Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) Meriema Covid Care Centre Covid Hospital, Meriema KP Bethesda Hospital

7738725811 6009982596 8794433155 9485238298 0370-2290080/ Oking Hospital and Research Clinic 2290146 Bethel Hospital 8794473640 Putuonuo Nursing Home 7641941 199 Peren: DC Peren, SenTuensang: ADC & adtiwapang Aier has informed ministrator, Tuensang Town that the ongoing lockdown Council (TTC), Tuensang, in the district has been ex- Ajit Kumar Verma has intended till May 31 and all formed that various salessuch activities restricted/ person /street hawkers were permitted as per the order roaming door to door in town shall continue in addition to area for business purposes, the following. which was posing a potenThe DC has also di- tial threat for the spread of rected all sub-divisional task COVID-19 in town area. force in the district to devise In this regard and as dea mechanism to facilitate cided during the meeting of opening of vegetable, fish/ DTF on COVID-19, all such meat vendors, local grocery business activities have been stores and hardware stores for prohibited with immediate public purchase as per local effect until further orders. requirements in respective DC informed that any sub-divisions ensuring the violation of this order shall enforcement of COVID-19 attract penal action under the protocols. relevant provision of Law. Phek: DC Phek, Razouvolie Dozo has informed that the phone numbers of nodal officer/caretakers of the cemetery/ crematorium in Phek district may be contacted for locating the cemetery for burial/crematorium as below: EAC, Pfutsero, 9642415388 Pfutsero town Dr. Riku Khutso Head DB, Phek 9862828303 Phek town Chivohu Lohe 7627944776/ GB Zachive Nyekha Chozuba town 9402203730 JWCC convenor 9612190183 Meluri town Rienyisie

COVID-19 helpline numbers for Phek district: Covid War Room (24x7) 6033976985/6909623388 District hospital Phek 8732884695 Police helpline number 9383013432 District surveillance 6009207186 SMO Pfutsero 8974323533 SMO Meluri 8131809946 SMO Chozuba 9436077450

KOHIMA, MAY 20 (NPN): Serious allegations of mismanagement by the authorities maintaining the quarantine centre for Covid-19 positive individuals at Meriema here have been reported.

The centre is reportedly housing more than 300 inmates with majority of them staying for over a month now while some, after recovery, had also reported to have been re-infected.

A source, who was an inmate, informed this Correspondent on conditions of anonymity that

many low-income inmates were skipping meals since they were running out of money and unable to pay the Rs. 300 per-day fee.

The source said that people who test positive for Covid-19 through random testing conducted at various colonies in Kohima arrive at the centre on taxis or other means. This leaves the drivers exposed to the virus because, after dropping the patients, they go home without going through the mandatory test, thus risking themselves to potential infection and raising chances of community transmission.

SSAALWC asked to withdraw cessation of 2-lane works

DIMAPUR: Zunheboto district administration, police, Sumi Hoho (SH), Sümi Officers Union Zunheboto (SOUZ) and Sumi Kukami Hoho (SKH) at a joint emergency meeting have appealed to the SARDP Sumi Area Affected Landowners Welfare Committee (SSAALWC) to immediately withdraw the indefinite total cessation of the ongoing 2-lane road project under Sumi jurisdiction (eight villages).

In a joint resolution, DC Zunheboto Peter Lichamo, SP Zunheboto Uniel Kichu, SH general secretary I Nikheto Jimomi, SKH president H Kashito Yepthomi and SOUZ Lhokiye Yeptho stated that joint emergency meeting held at the official residence of DC Zunheboto on May 20, 2021 discussed issues pertaining to stoppage of ongoing two-lane road construction.

The meeting resolved that SSAALWC would withdraw the stoppage and allow the road construction works to resume in the larger public interest with immediate effect.

Further, the joint meeting considering the merit of the demand put forth by the SSAALWC resolved to continuously extend all logistic supports to the welfare committee.

Further, the meeting resolved that henceforth if any individuals/groups obstruct the ongoing road construction or any developmental activities in the district, strict legal action would be initiated against the defaulters as per the provision of the law.

The centre is also reportedly overcrowded to accommodate the daily arrival of new inmates. Although most of the inmates were asymptomatic, lack of proper facilities, including water and electricity, is reportedly driving most of them into frustration.

It was also learnt that patients also arrive at the centre at their own convenient time without any prior intimation or notice to the officials in charge of the centre, thus making it harder for the management to put things into order, which also shows lack of coordination among the authori-

ties concerned.

While separate quarantine centres have been arranged for frontline workers in other districts, apparently in Kohima they are placed at the same centres with patients whom they have been taking care of, the source said.

And with test results getting delayed, many inmates are also reportedly staying at the centre above the prescribed isolation and observation periods. The source further disclosed that none of these incidents are being reported since people were apprehensive to go near the centre.

NVCO on fair distribution of food grains

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Voluntary Consumers’ Organisation (NVCO) has appealed to the state government agencies “to be more fair and honest in the distribution of food grains” to beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act 2013.

NVCO through its media cell maintained that this would be of great food relief for citizens, especially the poorer sections during the total lockdown.

NVCO stated that the department of food and public distribution under ministry of

consumer affairs, food and public distribution, decided to allocate grains free of cost 5 kg per person per month to nearly 79.88 crore beneficiaries covered under national food and security Act (AAY, PHH and DBT) over and above NFSA allocation for a period of two months (May and June).

NVCO has appealed to all the agencies dealing with distribution of food grains to be fair in order to ensure food security to citizens, where most were daily wage earner, labourers, business community, private job holders, etc.

ESH appeals state govt on transfer of posts

DIMAPUR: Eastern Sumi Hoho (ESH) has appealed to the state government to evade the transfer of district administrations, doctors and nurses.

In a press release, ESH vice president H. Phutoi Sumi and general secretary Robert Heetosaid that even if transfer was unavoidable, the replacements have to be posted at the shortest period “during this emergency situation who are working tirelessly as frontline warriors”.

The ESH also urged

upon the state government to recruit to those posts lying vacant with the retirement of many staffs under the medical department so that the concern department do not face shortage of staff during the pandemic.

Further, ESH appealed to the general public to act as responsible people and that the present pandemic situation could be contained effectively “only when we extend ones best cooperation to the frontline warriors” by strictly observing SOPs and remaining vigilant.

NVCO informed that pregnant and lactating women would be entitled to free meals during pregnancy and six months after child birth.

While informing that they would also receive maternity benefit of at least Rs.6000 which included mid-day meal, integrated child development services scheme, NVCO stated that National Food Security Act was not just a scheme but a law in which poor families, lactating mothers and children could claim the schemes as a right if their entitlement were not received.

MCCI elects new office bearers DIMAPUR: The 10th session of the Mon chamber of commerce & industry (MCCI) general meeting was held on May 3 at the NPF conference hall.

In a press release, its president Ngamom Konyak and general secretary & admin Yanpong Nyemlim informed that during the meeting, the house unanimously elected Ngamom Konyak as president, Mithlesh, Farukh and Manphong as vice presidents, Yanpong Nyemlim as general secretary & admin, Akhah Konyak as treasurer along with five other members as office bearers for the tenure 2021-2024.

K Y M C

4

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXXI No. 164 DImapur, FrIDaY, maY 21, 2021

Warnings from cyclones

C

yclone Tauktae, the most powerful storm to batter the west coast in two decades, ripped out power pylons, trees and caused house collapses killing at least 29 people in Gujarat while scores were also reported dead in maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.Nearly 14 crore people have been affected by storms in india in the last 50 years, according to EmDaT, the international disasters database. another cyclonic storm, Cyclone Yaas, is very likely to form in the Bay of Bengal on 22 may 2021 and hit West Bengal and adjoining Odisha coasts by 26 may 2021.

Other storms that have hit india include Cyclonic Storm pyarr, Storm Viyaru and cyclone Lehar. after China and the philippines, storms affect the highest number of people in india. Scientists have again reminded the world of how the Doomsday Clock indicates how the planet earth is being driven closer to destruction owing to environmental catastrophes that are going to strike with more awesome power than nuclear warheads. Due to human interference with the environment through emissions of chemicals and pollutants, the changes are being witnessed through changing climatic winds, oceanic currents and rising heat and humidity. The global warming debate has neglected and thus underestimated the importance of technical change in considering reduction in greenhouse gases and adaptation to climate change. During the past few decades weather scientists have been observing irregular weather cycles throughout the world. perhaps even the dreaded tsunami today, may no longer be an occasional freak condition but repeated quite often.

Scientists who have been following the global warning phenomenon describe as “stunning”the correlation between a rise in ocean temperature over the past 40 years and pollution of atmosphere. according to a finding, there has been considerable warming of the planetary system and approximately 90 per cent of that warming has gone directly into the oceans during the past forty years. america produces a quarter of the world’s greenhouse gases, yet under it remains one of the few developed nations that treats environmental issues as a non-issue. The uS argues that the changing weather patterns as because of natural phenomenon as skeptics often like to point out but due to the greenhouse effect by emission of chemical gas and pollutants to the atmosphere. Scientists analysed more than 7 million recordings of ocean temperature from around the world, along with about 2 million readings of sea salinity, and compared the rise in temperatures at different depths to predictions made by two computer simulations of global warming. The findings reveal that typical ocean temperatures have increased since 1960 by between 0.5C and 1C, depending largely on depth.

The real key is the amount of energy that has gone into the oceans. and this could only come from unnatural causes by man-made pollutants that cause the temperature to rise. Because the global climate is largely driven by the heat locked up in the oceans, a rise in sea temperatures could have devastating effects for many parts of the world. Warming could alter important warm-water currents such as the Gulf Stream, as melting glaciers pour massive volumes of fresh water into the North atlantic. The eco-system is being disturbed with dangerous consequences. massive deforestation has also exacted great damage to the system but unfortunately, mankind will realize only too late.

dailydevotion Taking Possession of Our Own Soul

By your patience possess your souls. —Luke 21:19

When a person is born again, there is a period of time when he does not have the same vitality in his thinking or reasoning that he previously had.

We must learn to express this new life within us, which comes by forming the mind of Christ (see Philippians 2:5). Luke 21:19 means that we take possession of our souls through patience. But many of us prefer to stay at the entrance to the Christian life, instead of going on to create and build our soul in accordance with the new life God has placed within us. We fail because we are ignorant of the way God has made us, and we blame things on the devil that are actually the result of our own undisciplined natures. Just think what we could be when we are awakened to the truth!

There are certain things in life that we need not pray about— moods, for instance. We will never get rid of moodiness by praying, but we will by kicking it out of our lives. Moods nearly always are rooted in some physical circumstance, not in our true inner self. It is a continual struggle not to listen to the moods which arise as a result of our physical condition, but we must never submit to them for a second. We have to pick ourselves up by the back of the neck and shake ourselves; then we will find that we can do what we believed we were unable to do. The problem that most of us are cursed with is simply that we won’t. The Christian life is one of spiritual courage and determination lived out in our flesh.

Quotes

There is no influence like the influence of habit. ~ Gilbert Parker

NagalaNd Post, Dimapur FriDaY, maY 21, 2021

Post-mortem

India’s taxation policy is behind the COVID Curve

T

he clamour for exempting essential COVID-19 relief material from indirect taxes is growing. Several petitions are pending before courts across the country, including the Supreme Court. The issue is regarding the affordability and availability of essential relief materials like ventilators, oxygen cylinders, concentrators, drugs and vaccines. There are two aspects to the debate.

Firstly, an increase in price because of levying GST on manufacture and sale of the COVID-19 relief material and equipment within India. Secondly, an increase in price due to the levy of IGST on the import of these materials.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has publicly taken a stand that exempting COVID-19 relief material will result in an increase in manufacturing costs. Credit of the GST paid on the purchase of input materials and services will not be available to be set off against the final output GST liability.

This phenomenon is also known as blockage of input tax credit when the end product is exempt from GST. Thus, there will be a corresponding increase or less than desired reduction in the price of the final products. The finance minister has also justified the imposition of IGST on import by stating that a substantial portion of IGST is shared with the states.

On the surface, the government’s response may appear to be reasonable but a deeper analysis of the problem reveals an

undesirable mix of bureaucratic lethargy, static institutional thinking and legislative unwillingness.

Companies, charitable organisations and individuals have been importing oxygen concentrators, ventilators and other equipment due to a shortage in the domestic market.

This attracts customs duty as well as IGST. To ease the costs, the government had completely exempted COVID-19 relief material from the levy of customs duty. However, the same benefit has not been extended to IGST. The underlying objective was to make imports of COVID-19 relief material cheaper to the extent of the additional customs duty, so that people feel encouraged. If the local industry doesn’t have the infrastructure to scale up production, there is no adverse effect of imports. The demand will be met through imports, whatever the price and duty structure is. Hence, no prejudice is caused to the domestic industry by way of an exemption.

The government must understand that the basis and objective of exempting this customs duty remain the same for IGST as well. Not exempting IGST on imports in the same manner as customs duty is arbitrary. What makes matters worse optically is that import of oxygen concentrators for personal use without payment (like gift from family) invites IGST of 12%, whereas the import of the same equipment through a government-approved agency is not taxed at all. It seems as if the citizens are

being penalised for taking care of themselves due to the government’s failure to ramp up the healthcare infrastructure in the past year. These issues make the stated policy open to challenge before the courts.

Apropos domestic transactions, it is true that the final prices remain low owing to the seamless adjustment of GST on raw material against the final output liability. It is also true that the price in an exemption scenario will not decrease by much as is being popularly anticipated. The same was hoped when the government was forced to exempt sanitary napkins from the levy of GST. The reduction was negligible, with no substantial benefit to the consumer as blockage of GST on input played spoilsport and increased costs. However, instead of using past experience and knowledge as a shield, the government will be well advised to use it as a sword and tackle the issue headon. The current debate has exposed a shortcoming in the legislative text as well as the taxation policy, which needs to be addressed immediately.

Taxes are not just a source to augment revenues The gover nment shouldn’t view taxes as a source to only augment revenues. If intelligently used, tax levying powers can be used as a tool for social engineering. The legislature’s right to levy tax also includes the duty to grant relief to further a constitutional aim. This proposition is in consonance with our constitu-

tional principles as well.

The Indian constitution obligates the state to regard improvement of public health as part of its primary duties (Article 47).

Interestingly, B.G. Kher, a learned member of the Constituent Assembly, while having a debate on Article 47 (in a different context) pointed out that the loss of revenue made economic sense owing to greater social benefits.

Article 41 further enjoins the state to, within the limits of its economic capacity, make provision for public assistance in cases of sickness. The Supreme Court has already held on many occasions that the state, being the parens patriae has to act in a meaningful manner as the father of the citizens of the republic. It is the ultimate custodian and guardian of their welfare.

This approach has previously been tried successfully by the Centre on many occasions. Consider the concessional tax relief given on the sale of carbon credit certificates.

This move has encouraged measures to protect the environment in commitment to the Kyoto Protocol.

Similarly, in the aftermath of the Kutch earthquake in 2001, the Centre was quick to exempt excise duty on cement and steel, which was utilised for relief work.

These policy responses resulted in greater social benefits at the cost of forgoing revenue.

What are the solutions?

A similar approach is the need of the hour now. It is not justifiable to collect additional amounts in tax-

es from people when they are trying to protect their lives during the pandemic.

The government has many options to temporarily alleviate this. The entire value chain of manufacturing the COVID-19 relief materials can be exempted from GST. This will solve the issue of blockage of input tax credit and an increase in price.

Alternatively, the Centre can bear the cost of the blocked input tax credit, which can be refunded to the manufacturers and intermediate producers.

Then again, it will be more helpful if these final products are merely ‘zero rated’ and not exempted. This would enable the manufacturers to claim a refund of the GST paid on inputs. The EU Commission has adopted a zero rating of VAT when acquiring coronavirus vaccines and testing kits. There may be legislative hurdles in achieving the ends through these means. However, to overcome these hurdles, the time is ripe to act in the interest of the public and public health by invoking the ordinance promulgating power to modify the legislative bottlenecks.

Recently, in the absence of any ordinance or GST Council meeting, the IGST rate was only conditionally reduced from 28% to 12% and then to 0% only on certain relief material by way of a simple notification (not for direct personal imports or philanthropic efforts). This shows that if there is some willingness, there is always a middle path that can be taken to address the issue.

Even otherwise, there was

never a more opportune time to call an emergency GST Council meeting than now.

The current turmoil also presents an opportunity to set our house in order as far as spending dedicated cesses are concerned. The Indian government has been levying health and education cess at 4% on direct taxes and a ‘social welfare surcharge’ of 10% on customs duty since 2018. Unfortunately, as per the CAG report, both have not been utilised since no dedicated new fund was established.

These could have very well been utilised to neutralise the potential revenue loss the government may face owing to tax reliefs or to augment COVID-19 relief material work.

It is natural for the policymakers to face the dilemma of losing out on revenue while ensuring larger public good. But the survival of citizens is not a zero-sum game.

The taxation policy should aim at bringing healthcare relief to the maximum number of people in an affordable manner. After all, salus populi suprema lex esto (The health of the people should be the supreme law). In these extraordinary times, the finance minister along with her state counterparts must look for out of the box solutions. The Beatles had sung in protest about the taxman, “If you get too cold, I’ll tax the heat”. It is now for the government to consider, when the nation is gasping for breath, if it will still tax oxygen.

Deepak Joshi advocate, Delhi.

Finding happiness in pandemic times Young people at high risk of

W

hen fear has come to every home, when our families and friends are touched by Covid, when even a stranger’s grief resonates like never before, what does being happy mean? Is there a manual that philosophers and poets have left for us? In his poem The Pulley, George Herbert shares a fascinating interaction between God and humankind. God extends all benefits to human beings except peace or rest. For, God believes that restlessness and unhappiness will be reasons for man to remain connected with God. So, are we closer to God now? The Vedas, Upanishads and the Gita, all ascribe to happiness or ananda a quality of liberation — internal bliss comes when the jiva is freed from mundane pleasures. So, for Aurobindo, happiness was a natural state and for Vivekananda, it was freedom from misery and exercising goodness.

The West made it more about the head. Democritus describes happiness as a mental state; Socrates and Plato took happiness closer to the practice of intellectual virtue. For Aristotle, happiness is not a condition of the soul but a virtuous act. And the telos or purpose of life is attaining happiness through those virtues. For happiness, he used the term eudaimonia — activity expressing virtue. So, the citizen or the ruler is happy if she is a good person. Cut to 1776: Happiness was happily included in the US Declaration of Independence. Jeremy Bentham, through his utilitarian approach of the greatest happiness for the greatest number, argued that happiness is nothing but quantified action that can be assessed by observing the maximum pleasure and minimum pain for the population at large.

In other words, government policies can bring happiness if their benefits reach the last person. This echoes Aristotle who believed that the ruler or the state should acquire virtues that inspire citizens to remain happy.

So, in the vaccination drive, after Corona warriors, the first segment chosen by the state for vaccination were those over 60.

The “euphoria” of young India was ignored in the name of the greatest happiness for the greatest numbers. After senior citizens, everybody is considered for the vaccination. That vaccine stocks are running out complicates this virtue.

On almost every indicator, India is better off since Independence and yet there was massive migration at the time of lockdown and the emergent need of Atmanirbhar Bharat in almost every sphere. That puts an enormous responsibility on the government’s shoulders to maximise the happiness of an ordinary person. For the citizen, Aristotle underlined that “happiness turns out to be an activity of the soul that’s in accordance with virtue”.

So, a citizen has to be lawabiding and the state should, while creating the most significant benefit for the greatest numbers, give space for its citizens to exercise their life habits freely and fearlessly. The state must refrain from stipulating dos and don’ts with regard to people’s choices of food, clothing, and shelter. Bertrand Russell, in The Conquest of Happiness, writes “The secret to happiness is this: let your interests be as broad as possible, and let your reactions to the thing and persons that interest you be as far as possible friendly rather than hostile”.

What this entails, first of all, is self-inquiry. Asking ourselves — Was I happy before Covid?— will give us insight into how one should try to live happily in these harrowing times.

Covid has compelled us to be physically distant. By doing so, it has allowed us to spend more time with ourselves. But are we friends with ourselves? In the pre-Covid world, there was little time or space for self-awareness — being busy became almost a personality trait. Covid, with its intimations of mortality, has told us, even if a little harshly, that the purpose of life is life itself.

We will have to re-examine our biases and prejudices as well as choices and preferences.

As a start, why not nurture

chronic fatigue post Covid-19

life physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually? Physically, by conscious walking and breathoung adults who sur- began between April and June ing, eating right and taking rest; vived Covid-19, even 2020. Symptoms of orthostatic mentally, by conscious reading with mild infections, are intolerance -- a group of clinical and writing; emotionally by con- at increased risk of a serious conditions that includes fatigue, sciously listening to the heartbeats post-Covid or “long haul” prob- lightheadedness and difficulty of others with care and empathy lem -- chronic fatigue syndrome, concentrating, and are linked and, spiritually, conscious living say researchers. with greater than 90 per cent around reason.

A recent review of three of the people with ME/CFS Before the pandemic, we case studies by Johns Hopkins -- were prominent in all three were connecting essentially with University researchers provides from the outset of their Covidproducts and profiles instead first evidence that one serious 19 illness. of nature and beings. Product post-Covid problem may be A six-month post-Covid became the person and person myalgic encephalomyelitis/ symptom onset examination, became the product. We searched chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/ including evaluations of movefor the product, the virus hunted CFS) -- the complex, multisys- ment, neurological function and down the person. continued orthostatic intolerSo we have to choose: Are tem disorder previously known ance, was conducted on each as chronic fatigue syndrome. we chasing life or death? We must “In the three patients of the patients to determine if ask: For whom and for what do studied -- all of whom had ME/CFS could be diagnosed.

I live for? In the simplest form, confirmed or highly probable All three easily met the criteanswering this question is a jourCovid-19 infections early in the ria. ney that begins from the self and Interestingly, all three papandemic -we observed ME/ includes our loved ones but at the tients had relatively mild CovidCFS-like symptoms within the deeper level, this relates to our first two weeks of illness,” said 19 respiratory symptoms and connection with all.

Deepening the connection Peter Rowe, director at Johns none required hospitalisation, with those we care for, with other Hopkins Children’s Center yet it appears to have translated beings and nature is the call of and Professor of Paediatrics at into the more serious secondary Covid too. Feeling your daughter’s the Johns Hopkins University problem of ME/CFS for them all, Rowe said. heartbeat, leaving a lunch box at School of Medicine.

Further research is needed “At six months following the door of someone isolated, to define the biological mechamaking a cup of tea for your part- their illness, all three still met nism by which ME/CFS arises the criteria for being diagnosed ner, calling a colleague to check on how they are coping with the with ME/CFS,” Rowe added. from Covid-19, and then use The three patients evaluat- that insight to develop treatlockdown — all these are small ed in the recent study, published ment strategies that can return acts grounded in the daily routine but they give us a sense of purpose. in the journal Frontiers in Medi- patients with post-Covid ME/ Do they bring happiness? No one cine, were a 19-year-old man CFS back to their previous qualis sure but they certainly take our and two women, ages 22 and ity of life, the team said.

IaNS feature empathy beyond the walls of our 30, whose Covid-19 symptoms home and that is a fundamental criterion for happiness.

Doing what can be done and should be done through values and finding excellence by cultivating those virtues. This is the do-good and be-good philosophy of Vivekananda, the talisman of Mahatma Gandhi, the eudaimonia of Aristotle. This is the enduring truth, the mundane is what we have and what we need Sir, The DMC garbage vehicle which is supposed to pick up to work with. That’s the pursuit garbage every alternate days has not arrived for two complete of happiness. weeks. As a result, huge garbage has piled up in the households Nanditesh Nilay The writer is an author of Being with terrible stench emanating from them. On normal days, we managed by disposing ourselves by taking it to designated disposal Good and Aaiye, Insaan Banaen.

(This column first appeared in spots. But the current lockdown does not allow us to venture out the print edition of Indian Express of our home. The DMC administrator or someone in charge of on May 20, 2021. Views expressed garbage should be informed of the plight of the citizens.

Kalito Sumi, Fellowship Colony, Dimapur. are personal).

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

Y

Reader’s Post

Irregular DMC garbage vehicle

49 dead, 26 from barge still missing

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (AGENCIES): A total of 49 bodies have been found in the Arabian Sea near the spot where the ill-fated barge ‘P305’ sunk on the night intervening May 17 and May 18 as Cyclone Tauktae ravaged past India’s western coast. A DNA profile of the dead would reveal their identity. After more than three days of search by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard in extreme sea conditions, 26 persons, who were on the barge are still missing at sea. Hopes of finding any more survivors are slim. The search will continue for now as the sea is known to throw up miraculous survivors even days after accidents, sources in the Navy said.

Legally, those missing cannot be presumed dead till there is evidence to support it. Such a search at sea is normally not called off for a few weeks. After a long search a certification has to be done, saying the missing persons are presumed dead.

This certification is needed for paper-work by the families to seek compensations and insurances etc. Of the

Indian Navy rescues 137 crew of GAL Constructor which ran aground off Mumbai. (PTI)

261 persons on the ill-fated barge, 186 have been rescued from the sea and brought back to shore in batches.

All those who have been rescued had jumped off the barge as it sank. All were wearing self-illuminating life-jackets that have a special ‘prop’ to keep a person’s head above water.

The sunken barge was working at the Heera oil rig part of the Bombay High oil rigs 70 kms south-west of Mumbai. The government last night ordered a probe asking a high-level commit-

tee to probe the sequence of events that led to the stranding of so many barges and ships. The committee will probe the following: Sequence of events leading to the stranding and drifting of these vessels, and subsequent events; if warnings issued by Meteorological Department and other authorities were adequately considered and acted upon; if standard operating procedures for securing theses were adequately followed and lapses and gaps in the system leading to the stranding and drifting

Covaxin production to be ramped up by 200 million doses HYDERABAD, MAY 20 (IANS): Bharat Biotech on Thursday announced the quick ramp up of additional manufacturing capacities for Covid-19 vaccine Covaxin by an additional 200 million.

The manufacturing capacities for India’s first indigenous Covid vaccine have been ramped up at Chiron Behring Vaccines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bharat Biotech at Ankleshwar, Gujarat.

The company plans to produce 200 million doses of Covaxin per annum in the GMP facilities that are already operational for the production of vaccines based on Inactivated Vero Cell Platform Technology, under stringent levels of GMP and

biosafety, Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech said in a statement.

The product availability at Ankleshwar is expected to commence from fourth quarter of 2021.

Bharat Biotech had already deployed multiple production lines at its Hyderabad and Bengaluru campuses, adding Chiron Behring to this line-up of

of the vessels. Meanwhile, three barges and three ships associated with oil-rigs went adrift on Monday.

O t h e r t h a n B a r ge ‘P305’ that sunk, all others are safe. The boats of Oil and Natural Gas Commission (ONGC) on Thursday towed the drill ship Sagar Bhushan and barge ‘Support Station 3’ to harbour to Mumbai. All 297 men on board are safe. All the 137 personnel on barge GAL Constructor were rescued on Tuesday by the Navy and Coast Guard helicopters.

completion of the syllabus.

Parents have been urged to prepare a study time table for students for use at home. The department has reiterated that care should be taken by all concerned to follow COVID appropriate behaviour at all times. It said that SOPs notified by the government dated April 29, 2021 be strictly followed.

Directives for govt schools: The department has issued separate directives for strict compliance by all teachers and school heads serving in government schools: Teachers have been asked to record details of

high-containment BSL rated GMP facilities that are required to manufacture Covaxin.

This effectively takes the volumes up to about one billion doses per annum, with its own established campuses specialised for manufacturing inactivated viral vaccines under the highest levels of biosafety, the vaccine maker added.

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (PTI): If the vaccination drive against coronavirus is not ramped up and COVID19 appropriate-behaviour is not maintained, there is a possibility of a third wave of the pandemic in 6-8 months, said M Vidyasagar, a scientist involved in the Sutra Model which uses mathematics to project the trajectory of COVID-19.

He, however, stressed the Sutra Model has not predicted any third wave and it is working on it. The Indian Institutes of TechnologyHyderabad professor cited a paper by Italian researchers on infected people with decreasing antibodies, which give some sort of immunity, in six months. “If the antibodies are lost, then there is a chance of immunity going down. In this case, vaccination has to be

notes, worksheets/assignments prepared, distributed and feedbacks given etc in a note in the format given in Teachers’ Diary, which must be checked and countersigned by the school heads regularly (New Teacher’s Diary will be issued soon).

School heads have been directed to upload daily activities in the online school monitoring portal (https:// school.dosenl.in/) w.e.f.

May 26, 2021 before 4pm of all working days along with attendance report of teachers. Teachers, who left their place posting during the summer vacation, have been directed to conduct online classes from their present

place of stay till such time interdistrict/intradistrict travel are allowed by the government.

All government school teachers (including school heads) are to mandatorily register at the Teacher’s APP. School heads have been asked to ensure that all teachers serving under their establishment were registered at the Teacher’s APP. Particulars of teachers, who have not yet registered at the Teacher’s APP due to mobile number mismatch, could submit to (reports. dosenl@gmail.com) through respective school heads for necessary updating.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND STATE HEALTH SOCIETY: NATIONAL HEALTH MISSION DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE NAGALAND: KOHIMA NHM/B-35/HR/2016-17/309

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Govt gives deadline to FCRA account holders

(From p-1) According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, after that date they would not be eligible to receive foreign contribution in any account other than the “FCRA Account” opened in the NDMB. MHA has said that all persons/NGOs/Associations who already have been granted a certificate of registration or prior permission by the Central Government, should note that they would not receive any foreign contribution in any account other than the designated “FCRA Account” opened at the NDMB of the SBI, 11 Sansad Marg, New Delhi from the date of opening of such account or 01.07.2021, whichever is earlier.

Existing FCRA Account Holders were earlier given time till March 31, 2021 to open their FCRA account in the NDMB under the amended Section 17(1) of the FCRA, 2010.

The extension in time has been given in view of the exigencies arising out of the COVID-19 situation and to ensure smooth transition

by NGOs to the amended FCRA regime.

Pinarayi Vijayan sworn in as chief minister of Kerala for the second time

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, MAY 20 (AGENCIES): CPI(M) veteran Pinarayi Vijayan, who led the Left Democratic Front (LDF) to an unprecedented consecutive victory in the April 6 assembly polls, on Thursday took oath as Chief Minister of Kerala for the second time along with 20 ministers.

Governor Arif Mohammed Khan administered the oath of office to 77-year-old Vijayan and ministers in a low-key function at the Central Stadium here, which was held completely in accordance with the Covid protocol. Congratulating Vijayan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted:”Congratulations to Shri @vijayanpinarayi Ji on taking oath as CM and commencing his second term in office,” It is the Marxist veteran’s second stint in the top office. While 15 ministers including the chief minister took oath in the name of the Indian Constitution, five took it in the name of God. Representative of the Indian National League in

Governor Arif Mohammed Khan administering the oath of office to Vijayan in a low-key function.

the CPI(M)-led ministry, Ahamed Devarkovil, took oath in the name of Allah.

The ceremony began after the Governor reached the venue at 3.30 pm and concluded at 4.50 pm.

Opposition CongressUDF leaders skipped the function in view of the Covid-19 spread. Ahead of the swearing-in, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala telephoned Vijayan to congratulate him over the formation of the new ministry. He informed Vijayan that the UDF representatives will watch the ceremony virtually in view of the spread of coronavirus.

The Kerala High Court on Wednesday directed the government to restrict the number of participants at the function in view of the pandemic. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, senior party politburo members, CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran and leaders of various religious and caste organisations attended the function.

Besides LDF workers, family members of MLAs also watched the function on TV considering the court directive that the ceremony can be viewed from the residence of the respective MLAs.

‘3rd wave possible if vaccination Mamata slams meeting with Modi as ‘insulting’ not ramped up, norms not followed’ Central government offiCials aCCuse her of Creating ‘drama’

DoSE issues guidelines for online classes

(From p-1) It also encouraged use of DIKSHA Platform (https://diksha.gov.in/) and SWAYAM Portal (https:// swayam.gov.in/).

Further, the department has asked the teachers to prepare explanatory notes, worksheets, assignments etc. for topics given in text books/syllabus for Classes I-XII and share with students through Online/ WhatsApp mode.

After lifting of total lockdown, the department has informed that school heads to make arrangements to distribute the notes, worksheets/assignments etc to parents/students once or twice a week on different days/timings for different classes following the SOPs notified by the state government from time to time.

Schools have been directed to notify parents/ students for submission of the completed Worksheets/ Assignments on specified days at different intervals of time for different classes.

Schools have also been asked to collect the completed worksheets/assignments and distribute new notes, worksheets/assignments etc along with feedbacks of the previous Worksheets/ Assignments submitted.

Parents have been encouraged to take interest/part in the Worksheets/Assignments of their children and assist in online/digital mode of education as far as possible.

The department has urged the school heads to ensure that only a reasonable number of worksheets/ assignments, which could be completed by students through self study, were given to students. It added that delivery of education should be the focus and not

5

national/State

NagalaNd Post, Dimapur FriDaY, maY 21, 2021

/Dated Kohima, the 20th May 2019

Applications are hereby invited to fill up the following posts under National Health Mission NHM, Nagaland.

Sl. Place of No. of Monthly Name of the Post Qualification No posting posts remuneration – Specialist 1. MO 4 (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) 2. MO – Specialist (Paediatrics) 4 3. MO – Specialist (Anesthesiology) 5 4. MO – Specialist (Surgeon) 3 Post graduate degree / Rs 62,500 diploma from recognized 5. MO – Specialist (Radiology) 4 to 1,15,000 institution/ university (Negotiable) Across 6. MO – Specialist (Pathology) 2 under MCI Act. Nagaland 7. MO –Specialist (Medicine) 4 8. MO – Specialist (Orthopedics ) 1 9. MO – Specialist (Ophthalmology ) 3 10. MO – Specialist (Cardiology) 1 MBBS from recognized Rs 45,000 to 11. GDMO institutions/ university 15 60,000) under MCI Act. 1. Interested applicants may submit photocopy of all relevant documents along with Phone no. on or before 29th May 2021 addressed to the Mission Director, National Health Mission, Directorate of Health & Family Welfare, Ruziezou, Kohima, Nagaland for direct appointment.

2. The application may be mail it to hr.nhmnlg@gmail.com 3. Those who will be posted in COVID19 Hospitals shall be given additional incentives.

4. Eligible candidate shall be contacted though telephone.

5. For any queries, applicant may contact +913702270565 on working days between 11:00 am to 3:00pm.

-Sd/(Dr. I. Talitemsüla Jamir) Mission Director, NHM. DC-

ramped up and COVID-19 appropriate-behaviour must be practiced.

If not then there is a possibility of a third wave in 6-8 months,” Vidyasagar said.

“We are also adding the aspects of immunity and vaccination in our model for our future forecasts,” he added.

According to a study by the San Raffaele hospital in Milan, antibodies against coronavirus remained in the blood of patients with COVID-19 for at least eight months after they were infected.

A recent sero-survey by the Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) suggested that the neutralising antibodies declined significantly after fivesix months, making people prone to reinfections.

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged on Thursday that many CMs were not allowed to speak in a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on COVID-19 and dubbed it “insulting”, drawing a sharp retort from some Central government officials, who accused her of creating “drama”.

With Banerjee dubbing Modi’s Thursday meeting as “super flop”, some central government functionaries said Banerjee has a history of not attending the meetings of chief ministers with the Prime Minister, be it on the pandemic or those held prior to the outbreak.

Though Modi’s interaction was primarily with district magistrates and other field officials on the COVID situation, several chief min-

Rahul attacks Centre over bodies buried in sands on Ganga banks NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (IANS): Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the dead bodies buried on the banks of the river Ganga, saying that the head of the Modi’s “system” remains buried in the same sand.

In a tweet in Hindi, Rahul Gandhi said, “The

clothes of every dead body visible on the banks of river Ganga say that the head of the Modi’s system remains buried in the same sand.”

His attack on the Prime Minister came after several dead bodies were found buried on the banks of river Ganga in several districts of Uttar Pradesh while several of them were also seen floating in the river.

Mamata Banerjee

isters, including those from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra, where these officers are posted, also attended. The central government officials, who did not wish to be named, alleged that Banerjee did not let the DM of 24 North Pargana district in West Bengal speak at the meeting with Modi to create a “drama” later. These officials also noted that DMs from opposition-ruled states like

Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Rajasthan and Maharashtra spoke in the interaction. Banerjee had said she along with her counterparts of many states were not allowed to speak which was akin to “insulting” them.

She also claimed that only chief ministers of BJPruled states were allowed to speak at the meeting, while others were “reduced to puppets”. “This was a casual and super flop meeting. We feel insulted and humiliated.

This is an attempt to bulldoze the federal structure of the country. PM Modi is so insecure that he did not listen to us,” Banerjee told reporters at the state secretariat ‘Nabanna’. The chief minister also alleged that the Central government has “no proper plans” in dealing with the COVID situation in the country.

NOTICE INVITING TENDER COMMERCIAL/ OFFICE SPACE REQUIRED ON LEASE

STATE BANK OF INDIA, RACC DIMAPUR

State Bank of India for Premises invites offers in two bid system on behalf of RACC Dimapur on Lease rental basis for Commercial/ Office use having Floor area of approximately 4500 sq. ft. (2500 sq. ft for storage preferably Ground Floor, 2000 sq. ft. for Office space) for RACC Dimapur located in Dimapur, preferably at Golaghat Road area/Super Market Complex Area.

Details of the technical bid can be obtained from the “The Regional Manager, State Bank of India, Regional Business Office, Dimapur, Super Market Complex, Dimapur-797112”.

The last date for submission of the tender will be 31st of May 2021.

SdRegional Manager State Bank of India Regional Business Office, Dimapur.

DC-449

6

national

NagalaNd Post, Dimapur FriDaY, maY 21, 2021

suggestion’: Rahul ONGC barge tragedy: MVA seeks Need ‘dynamic approach’ ‘Important tweets Sonia’s letter to PM Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation against Covid-19, says PM Tells DMs to collect data on mutation, cautions against vaccine wastage

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a crucial meet with district magistrates (DMs) and field officials from 10 states and union territories (UTs) and stressed that India must continue following appropriate COVID behaviour as the virus keeps changing variants. Noting that India’s approach should be “dynamic” and upgraded continuously, the Prime Minister asked that the DMs and officials to collect data on COVID19, its mutation and its seriousness among youths and kids in their districts.

He also lauded the officials for their efforts to break the chain of the infection and said that they made good use of existing resources to fight the biggest disaster that mankind is facing in nearly 100 years. “Coronavirus has made your work more demanding and challenging. In the midst of new challenges,

Narendra Modi

we need new strategies and solutions. It becomes important to use local experiences and we need to work together as a country,” PM Modi was quoted as saying as news agency ANI. Prime Minister Modi also cautioned the official against wastage of vaccines, saying that “even single dose going waste denies someone protection shield”.

He said that the Union Health Ministry is providing information to the states regarding vaccines for 15 days, adding that it will help you in managing vaccina-

tion timelines. “With your fieldwork, your experiences and feedback, we get help to form effective policies.

Even to strategise vaccination drive, we are moving forward with suggestions given by States and other stakeholders,” ANI quoted PM Modi as saying. The Prime Minister on Thursday interacted with DMs and field officials from 10 states -- Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh.

On Tuesday, he had held a meeting with field officials from states and districts about their experience in handling the COVID-19 pandemic. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa also attended the virtual meeting where Union Home Minister Amit Shah was present.

Rahul Gandhi & Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (AGENCIES): Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has tweeted a letter written by his mother and party chief Sonia Gandhi asking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide free education to children orphaned by COVID-19.

“Children are amongst the worst hit by Covid trauma, many having lost their parents to the dreadful situation. Congress President makes an important suggestion to safeguard their future & provide them free education at NVs. It’s high time GOI listened!” Rahul Gandhi tweeted, along with a copy of the letter signed

by Sonia Gandhi and addressed to PM Modi.

Sonia Gandhi in the letter said children whose either parents or an earning parent died due to COVID19 should be allowed to study for free in the government’s flagship school network - the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNV). “I feel that as a nation, we owe it to them to give them hope for a robust future after the unimaginable tragedy that has befallen them,” Sonia said in the letter. “...News of young children losing one of both parents to COVID-19 are the most poignant. These children are left with the trauma of loss and no support towards a stable education or future,” Mrs Gandhi said.

M u M b A I , M AY 2 0 (IANS): As the toll in the Arabian Sea barge tragedy rose to 37, Maharashtra’s ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies on Thursday demanded that Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan must be held accountable and should quit over the loss of precious human lives.

Hitting out at the Centre, Shiv Sena MP and senior leader Arvind Sawant said that if there had been a similar tragedy in Maharashtra, the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party leaders would have sought resignations of the people in the government.

“The ONGC is under the Petroleum Ministry headed by Dharmendra Pradhan. Why don’t the BJP leaders seek his resignation?

Who will be held accountable for the huge loss of lives in this tragedy, give compensation and other relief... Merely pointing fingers won’t do?” Sawant said.

Terming it as a ‘manmade tragedy’, Congress

Dharmendra Pradhan

State Spokesperson Sachin Sawant said that 37 innocent people on the Barge Papaa305 died when it sank, while another 38-plus are missing.

“The warnings of the imminent Cyclone Tauktae had been given in advance. Action must be taken against all those responsible for endangering lives of the workers. Dharmendra Pradhan should resign taking moral responsibility,” Sawant demanded.

Seeking action and charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder against all responsible for the barge disaster, Minorities Affairs Minister Nawab Malik said that “Pradhan must be held an-

swerable” for the incident which left 37 people dead and many more missing.

“Everyone was aware of the cyclone and warnings were issued for all to take necessary precautions.

While fisherfolk were moved to safety and prevented from going to the sea, why did the ONGC not heed these warnings and follow safety protocols?” Malik asked.

He said that all the workers should have been evacuated from the barges or oil rigs and brought ashore before the monster cyclone hit as is the norm worldwide, which was not done.

“Due to the ONGC’s failure, more than 600 lives were endangered and 37 have already been killed besides many more missing.

Strict action must be taken against those in-charge at ONGC and they should be booked under charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder,” Malik demanded.

The MVA leaders’ responses came after the Barge Papaa-305 with 261 people on board went adrift.

Former Raj CM Jagannath Ventilation crucial in reducing COVID transmission: PSA Don’t take dip lightly, virus could hit again: DHC warns Centre, Delhi govt Pahadia dies of COVID-19

JAIPuR, MAY 20 (PTI): Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Jagannath Pahadia died of COVID-19 late on May 19.

Pahadia, 89, breathed his last at a private hospital in Gurugram. He served as the first Dalit Chief Minister of the State in 1980-81 and was later the Governor of Haryana and Bihar.

Su do ku

“Ventilation can decrease the risk of transmission from one infected person to the other,” it said. Just as smells can be diluted from the air through opening windows and doors and using exhaust systems, ventilating spaces with improved directional air flow decreases the accumulated viral land in the air, reducing the risk of transmission, the advisory explained. “Ventilation is a community defense that protects all of us at home or at

work. Introducing outdoor air in offices, homes and larger public spaces is advised. “Measures to improve ventilation in these spaces must be taken up on urgent priority in urban and rural areas alike, recommendations for hutments, homes, offices and large centralised buildings are given. Simple strategic placement of fans, open windows and doors, even slightly open windows can introduce outdoor air and improve the air quality

No. 9922 Yesterday’s solution No. 9921

No. 4542 Yesterday’s solution No. 4541

No. 3566 Yesterday’s solution No. 3565

Across 1. Join up (6) 7. German shepherd (8) 8. Throw of dice (4) 10. Worldwide (6) 11. Aquatic reptile (6) 14. Label (3) 16. Goes up (5) 17. Way off (4) 19. Pompous girl (5) 21. Ward off (5) 22. Belong, conform (3,2) 23. Ticket money (4) 26. Unexpected extra benefit (5) 28. Writing tool (3) 29. Handsome youth (6) 30. Red, say (6) 31. Norse god (4) 32. Showing no mercy (8) 33. Took notice of (6) Down 1. Mystery (6) 2. Weather line (6) 3. Above average height (4) 4. Not artificial (7) 5. Tips up (5) 6. Mountain system (5) 8. Duty list (4) 9. Insulate (3) 12. Raised edge (3) 13. One with leprosy (5) 15. Quick (5) 18. Deluge (5) 19. Encountered (3) 20. Lair (3) 21. Ludicrous (7) 22. Gaiety, merriment (3) 23. Of cats (6) 24. Soon (4) 25. Deserved (6) 26. Iraqi port (5) 27. Direction (5) 28. Seedcase (3) 30. Bludgeon (4)

inside,” it stated.

Introduction of cross ventilation and exhaust fans will be beneficial in curtailing the spread of the disease, it said. In buildings with central air-management systems, improving central air filtration/increased filtration efficiency is especially helpful when enhanced outdoor air delivery options are limited. In offices, auditoriums, shopping malls, among others, use of gable fan systems and roof ventilators are recommended.

Frequent cleaning and replacement of filters is highly recommended, it added.

Saliva and nasal discharge in the form of droplets and aerosols, by an infected person while exhaling, talking, speaking, singing, laughing, coughing or sneezing is the primary mode of virus transmissions.

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 While the high court (AGENCIES): The Del- was told by the Delhi govhi High Court Thursday ernment counsel that it has warned the authorities that created a buffer stock of they should not take lightly 419 Metric Tonnes (MT) of the dip in COVID-19 cases LMO at different locations in the national capital as here and they are making there is a likelihood that the arrangements for creatvirus would again raise its ing further stock in next ugly head and hit the citi- 10 days, it noted that the zens badly and reminded Centre has not disclosed in them about their responsi- the status report as to what bility to create buffer stock steps it has taken to fulfill of liquid medical oxygen its obligation in terms of (LMO). the Court’s order.

The high court said it “This is a temporary is the duty of the Centre phase. We know it is going and Delhi government to to come back and hit us ensure that they are again badly. We may remind both not caught underprepared the Central and Delhi govto deal with the situation. ernment that the responsi“If you have not taken bility to set up buffer stock steps, we will come and has been cast upon primarchase you again. We are ily on the Centre and also telling you, we mean busi- on Delhi government by ness. Please don’t take it the Supreme Court vide lightly we are again warn- its April 30 order,” the ing you,” a bench of Jus- bench, which heard the tices Vipin Sanghi and matter relating to various Jasmeet Singh told the COVID-19 issues for over five hours, said.

SRINAGAR, MAY 20 Centre.

(PTI): Two alleged terrorist associates were arrested OFFICE OF THE from Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district, MON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY P.O & P. S Mon-798621, Dist. Mon : Nagaland (India) police said on Thursday, Ref. No GA-11/MCCI/2021-24/07 Date : 20/05/2021 adding six live grenades PRESS INFORMATION were recovered from their possession.

The 10th Session of the Mon Chamber of Commerce & Industry They were identified (MCCI) General meeting was held on 3rd May 2021 at the NPF as Jahangir Ahmad Hajam Conference Hall at 10 AM, where the following persons were selected as the new Office bearers of the MCCI for the and Abdul Hameed Hajam unanimously rd rd – residents of Khawarpara tenure 3 May 2021 to 3 May 2024.

1.

President : Shri. Ngamom Konyak in Tangdhar near the Line 2.

Vice President : Shri. Mithlesh of Control (LOC). : Shri. Farukh Acting on a tip-off 3. Vice President 4.

Vice President : Shri. Manphong regarding the movement of 5.

General Secretary & Admin : Shri. Yanpong Nyemlim terrorists, a special check6. Finance Secretary : Shri. Manma point was established in the 7. Joint Secretary : Shri. Pangnei main market of Kupwara, a 8. Joint Secretary : Shri. Akham Konyak police spokesperson said.

9. Treasurer : Shri. Akhah Konyak The duo tried to escape 10. Co-Ordinator : Shri. Kamnyei Chuhwanglim after spotting the search 11. Women nominee : Smti. Lucy and Miss. K. Mary party but were chased and (NGAMOM KONYAK) (YANPONG NYEMLIM) apprehended, he added.

President General Secretary & Admin

2 terrorist associates arrested in J&K

MC-20

Jagannath Pahadia

The State government has announced a one-day mourning on Thursday, when government offices will remain closed and the national flag will fly at halfmast. The Council of Ministers condoled Pahadia’s death at a specially convened meeting.

The veteran Congress leader was elected MP four times and later MLA in 1980, 1985, 1999 and 2003.

He served as a Union Minister of State three times after being elected to the Lok Sabha from Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur and Bayana seats. Pahadia was born in 1932 at Bhusawar town in Bharatpur district. He received his formal education in humanities and law in Bharatpur and Jaipur.

NEW DELHI, MAY 20 (PTI): Well-ventilated spaces play a crucial role in diluting the COVID-19 viral load of infected air and help in decreasing the risk of transmission from one infected person to the other, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser said on Thursday.

In its advisory ‘Stop the Transmission, Crush the Pandemic--Masks, Distance, Sanitation and Ventilation to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 virus’, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) said ventilation is a community defence that protects all of us at home or at work.

The advisory highlights the important role well-ventilated spaces play in diluting the viral load of infected air in poorly-ventilated houses, offices, among others.

HUKIYE. T. YEPTHOMI Hd. G.B. THAHEKHU VILLAGE DIMAPUR-797112, NAGALAND

FELICITATION

Through this column, the undersigned on behalf of the people of Thahekhu Village, Dimapur would like to express heartfelt congratulations to Gen. Samson Aye, Commander-in-Chief GPRN/ NSCN on being promoted to the rank of General, GPRN/NSCN. We pray for God Almighty's divine guidance and protection upon him and wish him a successful leadership in all his upcoming endeavours.

(HUKIYE T. YEPTHO) Hd. GB

(H. TOVITO AYE) GB

DP-2480

256 dead in Mideast hostilities: UN

United nations, May 20 (ians): The United Nations’ casualty count from hostilities in Gaza, the West Bank and Israel on Wednesday showed 256 people dead - including 69 children and an Israeli soldier - and thousands of people injured.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said 219 Palestinians, including 63 children, were killed in Gaza. In the West Bank, 25 Palestinian deaths were tallied, including four children.

Israeli sources reported 12 people killed, including two children and a soldier. Thousands of people are injured, mainly in the West Bank and in Gaza, Xinhua reported.

The hostilities shuttered six hospitals and nine primary healthcare centres in Gaza. Damage from a nearby airstrike halted Covid-19 testing at the Gaza Central Laboratory, the UN humanitarians reported.

A non-governmental organization hospital stopped

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NagalaNd Post, Dimapur FriDaY, maY 21, 2021

ian vehicles for security reasons.

On Wednesday, OCHA said the barred trucks carried cargo that included Covid-19 vaccines, first aid kits, medical disposables and drugs, including emergency medicines, fire extinguishers and fuel.Given the high number of vulnerable people, there is great concern about the spread of Covid-19.

The world organization said Gaza crossings should be open for essential and humanitarian supplies, including fuel for basic services, supplies to curb the spread of Covid-19 and to ensure that those who need Israel Gaza border : An Israeli artillery unit fires shells towards targets in Gaza Strip, life-saving treatment can acat the Israeli Gaza border, Wednesday. (AP Photo) cess such relief. functioning because of fuel 74,000 people in Gaza as of nated areas water, sanitaThe humanitarian fund shortages.

Monday. tion, hygiene services for for the occupied Palestinian Electric power in Gaza Humanitarian partners the displaced and electric territories expects to soon dropped, on average, to just were assessing the damage generators. release $14 million toward three to four hours a day to homes and prioritizing On Tuesday, the Is- a response appeal to be andue to feeder line damage, repair support. raelis allowed several fuel nounced by UN SecretaryOCHA said.

The UN refugee agen- trucks crossing through the General Antonio Guterres The World Food Pro- cy for Palestinians, known Kerem Shalom to power and Undersecretary-Genergramme reported giving as UNRWA, said it provides electrical generators but held al Mark Lowcock, the UN out electronic vouchers to for the displaced in desig- back additional humanitar- chief ’s relief coordinator.

Palestinian Prez accuses Israel of committing ‘war crimes’ in Gaza RaMallah, May 20 (ians): Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has accused Israel of committing “war crimes” in the besieged Gaza Strip and vowed to prosecute Israel at the International Criminal Court.

Tension between Israel and militant groups in Gaza has been going on for 11 days since May 10, leaving over 255 Palestinians dead and hundreds injured, as well as huge destruction of buildings and infrastructure, reports Xinhua news agency.

Abbas made the accusation at an emergency meeting on Wednesday of the Arab Parliament of the Arab League, which was held to discuss the ongoing tension in Gaza. His speech was also aired on the official Palestine television.

“What Israel does now in the Gaza Strip is a state terror and war crimes that violate international law,”

Mahmoud Abbas

Abbas said. “We will prosecute Israel before the international courts.”

Palestine “is seriously working with all parties to pressure Israel to stop its aggression on our people not only in the Gaza Strip, but also in the West Bank and East Jerusalem”, he added.

Abbas revealed that Palestine has informed the US of its full readiness to work through the international Quartet to end wars and achieve peace in the Middle East.

According to the latest data by the UN Office for the Coordination of Hu-

manitarian Affairs (OCHA), 219 Palestinians, including 63 children, were killed in Gaza.

In the West Bank, 25 Palestinian deaths were tallied, including four children.

Israeli sources reported 12 people killed, including two children and a soldier.

Thousands of people are injured, mainly in the West Bank and in Gaza Militant groups fired barrages of rockets from the Gaza Strip at Israel, while Israeli fighter jets kept carrying out intensive airstrikes on buildings and infrastructure in the besieged enclave.

Russian Parliament House endorses Renewed fighting in China, Pak to mark 70 yrs of diplomatic ties Yemen’s Hodeidah kills 8 bill to quit Open Skies Treaty the Treaty, so how can they expect to continue to monitor Russia? We must exit and continue to build relations on an equal basis, not within the framework of double standards, as is currently the case,” he said. Volodin called the day historic and important for Russia’s security.

The multilateral Treaty on Open Skies, which became effective in 2002, allows its 34 state-parties to conduct short-notice, unarmed reconnaissance flights over the others’ entire territories to collect data on military forces and activities.

Iran ready to contribute to Syria’s reconstruction

Several deaths reported in US due to massive storm

t e h R a n, M ay 2 0 (ians): Iranian Defence Minister Amir Hatami said that his country is ready to participate in the reconstruction of Syria.

“The economic sections of Defence Ministry, along with the Iranian private sectors, are ready to participate in the reconstruction of Syria to meet the needs of our friend and brother country,” Hatami said in a meeting here on Wednesday with the visiting officials from Syria.

Iran will also “spare no effort” to stand by the Syrian people and government to the best of its ability to help preserve its territorial integrity, Xinhua news agency quoted the Defence Minister as saying.

washington, May 20 (ians): Several deaths were reported in the southern US as a massive storm swept across the region.

In the state of Louisiana, authorities on Wednesday launched an investigation into at least four deaths that are possibly linked to the storm, reports Xinhua news agency. The East Baton Rouge Sheriff ’s Office reported that a 33-year-old man was found in a vehicle submerged in water.

Across the Mississippi River, a 40-year-old person reportedly died and another person was missing after their car crashed Monday evening. Officials also reported two other deaths likely linked to power outages.

The National Weather Service said that Lake

After the US withdrawal on November 22, 2020, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced this January that the country had started domestic legal procedures for the official pullout from the Treaty. The US and Russia have blamed each other for non-compliance with the treaty. The treaty is aimed at building confidence and familiarity among state parties through their participation in the overflights.

By 2019, over 1,500 Open Skies flights have been conducted since the deal entered into force, according to media reports.

Charles, west of Louisiana, saw close to 18 inches of rain in 24 hours. Parts of Interstate Highway 10 were closed due to flash flooding and many drivers were forced to abandon their vehicles.

I n Tex a s, a F l a s h Flood Watch for parts of the state’s southeast area has been extended until 1 p.m. Thursday. It could even be extended into Friday when additional rainfalls are expected.

According to the tracking poweroutage.us website, there were over 20,000 customers in Texas that are out of power as of Wednesday afternoon.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Wednesday issued disaster declaration in response to significant flooding and severe weather.

sanaa, May 20 (ians): Eight people were killed in renewed armed confrontations between Yemen’s warring factions in the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, a military official said.

“Two groups of the the Houthi rebels carried out an attack in an attempt to to advance towards key areas located in the southeastern parts of Hodeidah,” the official told Xinhua news agency on Wednesday. He said that the Houthis’ attack sparked intense armed confrontations with the joint pro-government forces stationed in the area.

The clashes that lasted

for hours resulted in the killing of eight people from the two-warring sides and injuring several others.

Last week, five people were killed and 11 others wounded during armed confrontations in Hodeidah’s eastern parts. The port city of Hodeidah, a vital lifeline for the war-torn country, has witnessed a shaky ceasefire between the government and the Houthi rebels since they reached a UN-sponsored truce in Stockholm in December 2018. The truce was seen as the first phase toward a nationwide ceasefire to end Yemen’s more than six years of civil war.

set a model of bilateral relations. This is based on mutual understanding, respect, trust, support and cooperation. Sha Hailin, president of the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship

with Foreign Countries, told that China & Pakistan aided each other in terms of antipandemic supplies since the outbreak of the pandemic, demonstrating the partnership between them.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

" I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4 : 7

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT BIO-DATA His first footprint to Assamese Baptist Church Kohima, (1st Oct. 1978) Took Baptism- (8th November 1978) Served as First Deacon : (1981) Served as Assistant Pastor : (1984 to 1994) Served as Deacon Board Chairman : (1995 to 1998) Served as Deacon Board Chairman : (2012 to 2017)

Late Mr. Pavan Kumar Rajkhowa (Tovike Sumi) Born on: 14th July 1947 – Died on: 1st May 2021

The family of Late Mr. Pavan Kumar Rajkhowa (Tovike Sumi) would like to convey and acknowledge our sincere gratitude to each every individual who stood by us and extended emotionally, physically, financially and prayers support throughout his prolonged illness and demise. We remain grateful.

We convey our special thanks to: 1.

Rev. Pastor Lytton Bennett (Senior Pastor) 8. SIB Staff (Subsidiary Intelligence Bureau) Assamese Baptist Church Kohima.

Kohima.

2. Mr. Mhabemo Ngullie (Asso. Pastor) Assamese 9. Nepali Church, Paramedical Area Fellowship.

Baptist Church Kohima.

10. Nagamese Baptist Church, Women Fellowship 3. Assamese Baptist Church Members.

Kohima Area.

4. Relatives.

11. Eklektos Baptist Church Kohima 5. Mudutsugho Kupushukulu, Kohima.

12. Pastor Khalek (Naya Jeevan Baptist Church, 6. Officer's Hill Colony, neighbors and friends.

Kohima.)

7. Officer's Hill Nepali Community.

13. Bethel Masiha Church, Kohima.

Lastly, but not the least, we tender our apology for not mentioning all the names of those who have stood by us. May God Bless you and keep you.

Loving Wife, Loving Daughter and Relatives K-972

01-08-1935 to 04-05-2021

We, the bereaved family members of Late Er. KIYETO JIMO (Shoixe Village) wish to convey our profound gratitude to each and every individual, neighbours, friends, families, churches and well-wishers who stood by us in prayers and supported us physically, morally, spiritually and financially during the brief illness and ultimate demise of our beloved father.

May God Almighty bless you all abundantly.

DP-2482

M o s c ow, M ay 2 0 (ians): The Russian State Duma, or the lower house of parliament, unanimously approved a bill on the country’s withdrawal from the arms-control Treaty on Open Skies.

State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin said on Wednesday that while the US has pulled out of this key pact, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members are still able to conduct reconnaissance flights under the treaty and pass data to Washington, reports Xinhua news agency. “The US has exited

shanghai, May 20 (ians): China and Pakistan will hold a series of activities later this year to mark the 70th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties, officials said at a seminar here. Despite the pandemic, both sides are confident in hosting about 100 celebratory activities to attract young people of both countries to participate in bilateral cooperation and exchanges, Xinhua news agency quoted the officials as saying on Wednesday At the seminar, held under the theme all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between China and Pakistan, Islamabad’s Ambassador to China, Moin ul Haque said the two countries

Loving Wife, Children, Grand Children, In-laws and Relatives

1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Lt. C. Pangjungtemjen

Born 24/1/1932 – Died 15/05/2021

Lt. P. Imtinangpong

Born 17/04/1966 – Died 14/05/2021

We, the bereaved family members, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the individuals, friends, neighbours, churches and well-wishers who have extended immensurable help morally, physically, financially and unceasing prayers for our family at the sudden demise of our beloved Imtinangpong Longkumer on 14th May 2021 and C. Pangjungtemjen Longkumer on 15/05/2021.

We also appreciate those who could not make it in person given the circumstances of global pandemic at hand, yet managed to comfort and uphold us in their prayers and condolence though far apart.

We are ever so grateful for your unwavering support, compassionate heart and kind act.

We deeply regret our inability to thank each and every individual. It is our sincere and humble prayer to Lord Almighty to bless each one of you.

Special thanks to : 1. Dr. Lanuyanger Jamir 6. Mr & Mrs Chuba Longkumer (Chakpa) 2. Dr. S. Apong Longchar 7. Mr & Mrs S. Samuel Longkumer 3. Shri Temjen Imna Along, Hon'ble Minister 8. Mr & Mrs K.Lima Imchen of Higher Education and Tribal Affairs.

9. Dimapur Ao Baptist Arogo Government of Nagaland, Kohima 10. Dimapur Lirmen Senso Telongjem.

4. Mr & Mrs T. Sosang Longchar (Rtd IFS) 11. Dimapur Lirmen Tamang Telongjem 5. Mr & Mrs T. Medem Longchar 12. Kevejau Village Council DP-2477

K Y M C

LT. SENTHANGLE KEZ Born on 26.08.1999 – Died on 21.05.2020

In our hearts forever and always.

The day God took you home, it broke our hearts, but God knew you would be in a safer place called heaven.

You left us so soon and so sudden. We couldn’t even realize how one year has passed since we lost you.

Seems like it was just a few days ago. Your death has reminded us that nothing is permanent; we all have to go when God wishes. Though we are separated in mortal life, may we be united till we meet again.

Loving Wife, Children, Grandchildren and Relatives DP-2483

DP-2464

Loving families and dear ones K Y M C

8

sports

NagalaNd Post, Dimapur FriDaY, maY 21, 2021

Juventus win record 14th Coppa Italia title WTC final between India and NZ

Rome, may 20 (IaNS): Federico Chiesa scored the decisive goal as Juventus sealed a record-extending 14th Coppa Italia title with a 2-1 win over Atalanta.

It has been a disappointing first season in charge for coach Andrea Pirlo, with the Bianconeri knocked out of the Champions League at the last-16 stage by Porto and their hopes of qualifying for next season’s competition hanging by a thread ahead of the final round of Serie A fixtures this weekend.

And they looked set for more despair when RuslanMalinovskiy cancelled out DejanKulusevski’s fine strike before half-time, DPA reports.

Juve stormed back in the second half, though, and sealed victory in their 20th Coppa Italia final

Juventus teammates celebrate with the trophy after winning the Coppa Italia title.

thanks to Chiesa’s composed finish with 17 minutes remaining.

Atalanta did most of the pressing in the early stages, with Duvan Zapata and Remo Freuler both

flashing efforts narrowly wide of Gianluigi Buffon’s goal.

It was Juve who went ahead, though, Kulusevski superbly whipping past PierluigiGollini after being

Joshua blasts Fury after their IOC prez to visit from July 12 title fight thrown into doubt Japan ahead Olympics

Anthony Joshua

t e X a S, m ay 2 0 (aGeNCIeS): Anthony Joshua has called British rival Tyson Fury a “fraud” and said he is “letting boxing down” after their world heavyweight unification title fight was thrown into doubt this week.

Joshua (24-1) beat KubratPulev in December to retain his IBF, WBO and WBA titles and was set to face Fury -- who holds the WBC belt -- on Aug. 14 in Saudi Arabia.

But Fury, who won the WBC title from Deontay Wilder in a rematch in February 2020, was ordered by an American arbitrator on Monday to fight Wilder again before Sept. 15.

Joshua questioned why Fury had announced they would fight when ar-

bitration proceedings were still going on.

“Tyson Fur y the world now sees you for the fraud you are. You’ve let boxing down. You lied to the fans and led them on,” Joshua tweeted.

“Bring me any championship fighter who can handle their business correctly.”

Fur y (30-0-1) responded by saying Joshua’s team knew arbitration was going on and the matter was “out of my hands”.

He also challenged Joshua to a bare-knuckle fight.

British media reported that Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn is considering alternative plans for the fighter, including a bout with Ukraine’s OleksandrUsyk -- the mandatory challenger for the WBO belt.

t o K yo, m ay 2 0 (aGeNCIeS): International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach will visit Japan from July 12, ahead of the start of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, according to a letter released by IOC senior official John Coates.

Plans for Bach to visit Japan in May were postponed because of a government-issued state of emergency in Tokyo and other areas aimed at containing the spread of coronavirus infections.

Coates will also be visiting Japan from June 15 to finalise Olympic preparations on site according to the letter, which was addressed to athletes, sponsors, and other stakeholders and posted on the IOC’s websiteon Wednesday.

The IOC kicked off a three-day meeting with the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Committee and other organisers on Wednesday.

During his opening remarks, Bach reiterated his commitment to hold the Games this summer, saying organisers were “fully focused on the delivery of the Olympic Games”.

However, the global sporting event - which was postponed by a year due to the coronavirus pandemic - faces mounting opposition from the Japanese public over fears it could trigger coronavirus outbreaks and burden medical services amid a slow vaccine roll-out.

picked out on the righthand side of the penalty area by Weston McKennie.

GianPieroGasperini’s side deservedly pulled level four minutes before the

interval when Malinovskiy collected Hans Hateboer’s pass and lashed a powerful strike past Buffon from just inside the area.

Gollini got down well shortly before the hour mark to paw away Kulusevski’s near-post flick, while Chiesa curled against the post after a slick move involving Cristiano Ronaldo.

Chiesa was not to be denied in the 73rd minute, collecting Kulusevski’s pass and then sliding home his 13th goal in all competitions this season.

Atalanta battled in the closing stages, but they never really came close to finding a goal that would have forced extra time, with Juve holding on to consign last season’s final defeat to Napoli to history.

likely to be attended by crowd

SouthamptoN, may 20 (IaNS): Encouraged by presence of crowd in the ongoing match against Leicestershire at Rose Bowl, host county Hampshire looks set to welcome crowd during the World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand which is scheduled to take place here on June 18-22.

Cricket in England last witnessed crowd in September, 2019 and the last season was played in front of empty stands. West Indies, Pakistan and Australia had toured England last year.

Rod Bransgrove, head of the Hampshire County Club, was quoted as saying

by Cricbuzz that England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is allowing 4000 fans for the WTC final.

Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson

“It is a high interest game and there is a good demand for it,” he said.

Though the ongoing county game at Rose Bowl has been affected by rains but the presence of crowd and applause has brought smiles to the face of cricketers.

The Hampshire county tweeted an interview with

player Ian Holland on the presence of crowd.

“You realise once the crowd is back, how much you miss it. Warming up in front of the crowd and then they clap when you are coming on and off. It is great to have supporters back. Getting back to some sort of normality, which is great,” said Holland.

Cheptegei fails to add world 3000m record to his kitty oStRaVa (CZeCh RepuBLIC), may 20 (IaNS): Joshua Cheptegei, the world champion in 10,000 metres, failed to break long-standing men’s 3000m world record in the Continental Tour Gold meeting here on Wednesday night.

The 24-year-old talented runner clocked 7 minutes 33.24 seconds, a personal best and a world leading time for the 3000m race, but was nearly 13 seconds short of Kenyan Daniel Komen’s time of 7 minutes 20. 67 seconds set in 1996.

After an outstanding 2020 season, during which he broke world 5,000m and 10,000m records, Cheptegei was aiming to add 3000m record to his kitty this season.

He was on a world record pace in the first half of the race covering the first 1600m in 3 minutes 55 seconds but slowed down as the race progressed.

In August 2020, Cheptengei clocked 12 minutes 35.26 seconds to erase the previous world record of 12 minutes 37.35 seconds in 5,000m, and later in October, he clocked 26 minutes 11.00 seconds to improve the previous 10,000m world record by six seconds.

L a s t month, Cheptengei clocked an impressive 3 minutes 37.36 seconds for the 1,500m race in Kampala’s high altitude.

The European outdoor season in Ostrava turned out to be a good platform for several top athletes ahead of Sunday’s Diamond League in Gateshead, England.

Performance of teenage middle-distance runner Max Burgin from England in men’s 800m was one of the highlights of the competition. He clocked 1 minute 44.14 seconds which was the world leading time in the men’s 800m.

His performance on Wednesday was also better than the Olympic qualifying mark of 1 minute 45.20 seconds.

Germany’s World Cup-winner Khedira announces retirement

Sami Khedira

BeRLIN, may 20 (aGeNCIeS): Germany’s World Cup-winning midfielder Sami Khedira said he will retire following his club Hertha Berlin’s final match of the Bundesliga season against Hoffenheim on Saturday.

Khedira, 34, began his career at VfB Stuttgart

and helped them win the league title in the 2006-07 season before moving to Real Madrid, where he won the league and Champions League in a trophy-laden spell. Khedira went on to win five Serie A titles at Juventus after joining them in 2015 and left for Hertha three months ago, playing eight games for the team as they avoided relegation.

“After the match on Saturday it’s time to say goodbye,” Khedira said on Twitter. “So proud that I had the chance to experience all these special moments with you. Thanks to all the fans, team mates, coaches and of course my family and friends.”

Joshua Cheptegei

Man City’s Ruben Dias named FWA men’s footballer of year

maNCheSteR, may20 (aGeNCIeS): Manchester City defender Ruben Dias has been named men’s footballer of the year by the Football Writers’ Association (FWA). The 24-year-old Portugal international was signed by City for about £65m from Benfica last summer.

He has helped the club win the Premier League and Carabao Cup as well as reach the final of the Champions League, in which they will play Chelsea.

“It is a huge privilege. Obviously I could not have done it without the success of the team,” said Dias. “I think me receiving this prize is the major example of how our team works, the way we

build our game.

“It reflects all the togetherness we have on the pitch, how we perform and the spirit that is in the team and with these players.”

The FWA said Dias was a “comfortable winner”, finishing ahead of Tottenham striker Harry Kane and Dias’ Manchester City team-mate Kevin de Bruyne.

Nine City players received votes, accounting for more than 50% of those cast.

Ruben Dias

women to Milak clocks second fastest Liverpool into Premier League top 4 with win over Burnley India play day-night

BuRNLey, may 20 (ap): Liverpool will head into the final round of Premier League matches with its Champions League destiny in its own hands after a 3-0 victory over Burnley that lifted JurgenKlopp’s team back into the top four on Wednesday.

Liverpool moved ahead of Leicester on goal difference. And with a superior goal difference of four, the Reds know if they match the Foxes’ result against Tottenham in their final home match of the season against Crystal Palace, they will have pulled off an impressive comeback from two months ago when, for a time, the Champions League looked beyond them.

Even third place may be up for grabs should Chelsea — which is a point ahead — stumble at Aston Villa, whose victory at Tottenham earlier Wednesday had guaranteed Liverpool a place in the Europa League at the very least.

Liverpool was indebted to Roberto Firmino’s strike late in the first half, back-up central defender Nat Phillips’ first senior goal early

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, left, is held off by Burnley’s Charlie Taylor during the EPL soccer match between Burnley and Liverpool at Turf Moor in Burnley, May 20. (AP/PTI)

in the second, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s first goal of the season to put a place among Europe’s elite back on the table.

Winning a fourth successive league match for the first time this season means the Reds go into the final day as the Premier League’s

most in-form team, with 23 points from the last 27 available. Chelsea is away to Aston Villa. Since a 1-1 home draw with Newcastle on April 24 that left Klopp fearing the worst, Liverpool has won four straight games — against Southampton, Manchester United, West

Bromwich Albion and now Burnley — to reel in Leicester.

Three days after Alisson’s winner at West Brom, it was another Brazil international — Roberto Firmino — who put Liverpool ahead at Turf Moor by converting a cross from Andrew Rob-

ertson in the 43rd minute.

Nat Phillips, the reserve center back filling in so admirably amid a glut of injuries in that position, scored the second goal with a header from Sadio Mane’s cross in the 52nd. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain added a third in the 88th.

The other thing to be decided on the final day of the season will be which teams qualify for UEFA’s minor European competitions, the Europa League and the newly created Europa Conference League.

West Ham is in a good position to finish sixth and qualify for the Europa League after beating West Brom 3-1.

Seventh-place Tottenham lost 2-1 to Aston Villa, in what could be Harry Kane’s final home game for the club, and is now tied on points with Everton, which beat Wolverhampton 1-0 at home thanks to Richarlison’s header.

Arsenal is a point further back in ninth after a 3-1 win at Crystal Palace.

Newcastle won 1-0 at home to Sheffield United in Wednesday’s other game.

Test in Australia

NeW DeLhI, may 20 (IaNS): The India women’s cricket team will play a daynight Test (with pink ball) on their tour of Australia later this year, the Indian cricket board announced on Thursday.

“Taking forward our commitment towards women’s cricket, I am extremely pleased to announce that Team India @BCCIwomen will play in their first-ever pink ball day-night Test later this year in Australia,” Jay Shah, the secretary of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), wrote on his Twitter handle.

I m m e d i a t e ly a f t e r Shah’s tweet, the International Cricket Council (ICC) also announced the news on its Twitter handle quoting Shah. The decision comes following severe criticism from various quarters that the current BCCI dispensation has ignored women’s cricket. The Indian women’s team didn’t play any cricket for almost a year before the home series against South Africa.

200m butterfly in history

Milak clocks

BuDapeSt, may 20 (aGeNCIeS): Hungary’s world record holder Kristof Milak posted the second fastest men’s 200m butterfly of all time at his home European swimming championships in Budapest on Wednesday.

Milak stopped the clock at one minute 51.10 seconds, a championship record bettered only by the 1:50.73 he set at the 2019 world championships.

He was more then three seconds quicker than Italian silver medallist Federico Burdisso in 1:54.28, and now holds five of the 10 best swims of all time in the distance.

Another Hungarian also made news in the pool with 35-year-old Laszlo Cseh becoming the first swimmer to compete in 10 long course European championships and qualifying for the final in the 200m individual medley.

Russian KlimentKolesnikov won the 100m freestyle in 47.37 seconds, a day after breaking the world record in the 50m backstroke.

He then came last in the 100m backstroke semifinals 10 minutes later and received first aid, with the medal ceremony from the earlier event delayed to give him enough time to recover.

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