13 April 2023

Nagaland Post

Vol XXXIII No. 125

Xi asks military to resolutely defend China’s sovereignty & maritime rights

INTERNATIONAL, PAGE 9

Power deptt cautions public

DIMAPUR, APR 12

(NPN): Power department has informed that the “construction of 2x10 MVA, 33/11 kV Sub-station at Padumpukhuri and 33kV Transmission line from existing 132/66/33kV Nagarjan Sub-station to Padampukhuri New Sub-station” passing through Kuda B, Full Nagarjan; Phaipijang; Naharbari; Darogapathar and Padumpukhuri was complete and would be test charged at the rated voltage at 5:30 a.m. on April 14, 2023 and would remain charged thereafter.

In a notification, Dimapur Electrical Division executive engineer Er. Y Akito Sema has therefore informed all the public neither to touch the said line nor go near the line.

The department has cautioned that anybody doing so would be doing it at their own risk and the department would not be held responsible for an untoward incident whatsoever.

NMA clarifies to ‘baseless aspersions’

DIMAPUR, APR 12

(NPN): Against the backdrop of criticisms by various organisations, Naga Mothers Association (NMA), has written to the state governor to clarify to what it described as “baseless aspersions” cast on it through separate letters addressed to the chief secretary by organisations such as - Angami Public Organisation (APO) and Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) .

NMA president Abei-ü Meru and general secretary Lochumbeni Humtsoe said the association had resolved to issue clarification the executive meeting held at Cradle Ridge on April 11 in response. NMA said it is a bonafide women body founded in 1984 and exists to date, working for peace, women’s issues and various other social issues.

NMA clarified that it has no written record of tinkering and experimenting with customary laws and traditions of the people as alleged.

NMA asserted that as a women organisation and along with other women organisations, it has the freedom to deliberate and organise meetings and seminars on public policies affecting all. NMA pointed out that records and activities of NMA, since its inception to date, would stand testimony to the fact that they have contributed much to bring peace, social order and promoting women’s rights as human rights.

(Full text on p-6)

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Covid entering endemic stage in India

NEW DELHI, APR 12 (PTI): Covid in India is moving towards the endemic stage, so the cases may keep rising for the next 10-12 days after which they will subside, official sources said on Wednesday.

The current rise in Covid cases is being driven by XBB.1.16, which is a sub variant of Omicron, they added. While Omicron and its sub-lineages continue to be the dominant variant, most of the assigned variants have little or no significant transmissibility, disease severity or immune escape.

The prevalence of XBB.1.16 increased from 21.6% in February this year to 35.8% in March. However, no evidence of an increase in hospitalisation or mortality has been reported, the sources said.

India registered a single-day rise of 7,830 Covid cases, the highest in 223 days, on Wednesday. The

data showed active cases have increased to 40,215.

A nation-wide mock drill to take a stock of hospital preparedness was held on April 10 and 11.

Officials say more than 10 lakh beds are currently available across the country. Out of which, over 3 lakh beds are oxygen-supported, 90,785 are ICU beds, and 54,040 are ICU-cumventilator beds. As part of the government healthcare infrastructure preparedness, 77,923 ventilators are functional, 261,534 oxygen concentrators, 685,567 oxygen cylinders are functional. Besides a total 8,652,974 PPE kits and 28,039,957 N-95

masks are in stock. The health ministry has also stocked 668,432,658 paracetamol doses, 97,170,149 doses of Azithromycin and other essentials.

Also, 14,698 total Basic Life Support Ambulances and 4,557 Advance Life Support Ambulances are available. In addition to this, the government has 208,386 doctors oriented on Covid-19 management. SII restarts manufacturing Covishield: Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla on Wednesday said the company has restarted manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccine Covishield amid rising num -

Oting massacre: Defence Ministry refuses sanction to prosecute accused

DIMAPUR, APR 12

(NPN): In a major development, Department of Military Affairs, Union Ministry of Defence, has refused to accord sanction to prosecute all 30 accused security force personnel for their alleged role in the Oting massacre on December 5, 2021.

This was communicated to the court of District & Session Judge, Mon by the crime cell of the police station and Special Investigation Team (SIT), a press note from the Police HQs stated.

The prosecution sanction from the Centre is re-

quired for initiating any proceedings against security force personnel for any action taken by them while discharging their duties under Sec 197(2) CrPC and Sec 6 of the AFSPA.

Following wives of the accused security force personnel moving the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the proceedings in the case, the apex court had already vide an interim order on July 19, 2022, stayed any further proceedings in the case.

After the killing of civilians at Oting on December 5, 2021 by the security

personnel, an SIT of Nagaland Police was constituted. After completion of the investigation, the SIT had on March 24, 2022 sought sanction for prosecution from the Department of Military Affairs, MoD, against the accused the accused security force personnel involved in the incident. As per procedure, upon completion of investigation pending receipt of sanction for prosecution, the charge sheet in the case was filed in the District and Session Court, Mon, against the accused persons on May 30, 2022.

IPL: Dhoni, Jadeja heroics in vain as RR beat CSK

SPORTS, PAGE 12

Increasing demand for dialysis at DHD

bers of cases of the virus infection. He said the company already has six million booster doses of Covovax vaccine available and adults must take the booster shot.

He said SII will make 6-7 million doses of Covishield available in 90 days and it could take up to nine months to further build up the stock based on demand. The company had stopped manufacturing of Covishield in December 2021.

Nagaland logs 1

fresh Covid case

NPN adds: Nagaland on Wednesday reported one fresh Covid-19 case, taking the active cases to three. According to Health department’s bulletin, the fresh case was reported from Dimapur, pushing the total caseload to 35,992. The death toll remained unchanged at 782 (including 5 non-Covid cases but with positivity).

NTUCT reaffirms stand against holding ULB polls

DIMA PUR, APR 12 (NPN): Naga Tribal Union Chümoukedima Town (NTUCT) has reaffirmed its stand to oppose the election to the urban local bodies scheduled to be held on May 16. The decision was made at its executive meeting held on Wednesday at Ward-2 Panchayat Hall. The house also unanimously decided to not allow any candidate file nominations for the Chümoukedima Town Council election. In this regard, the union said that it would maintain strict vigil.

Senden reaffirms solidarity with tribe hohos on ULB polls

Allegesnameof NMAbeingabused byfewindividuals

DIMAPUR, APR 12 (NPN): A o Senden clarified that, along with tribal hohos, it was not opposed to the conduct of elections to urban local bodies (ULBs) in Nagaland, but maintained that any Act which the government proposed to implement, must not go against the interest and wellbeing of people in general and should not infringe on Article 371A of the Constitution of India.

Ao Senden president

Chubawati Longchar and assistant general secretary

Arentemjen Jamir in a press statement also requested the State government to enact a fresh Municipal Act to govern the urban local bodies at the earliest.

The Senden functionaries also said that the draft for a new Act must be shared with the tribal hohos before introduction in the State Assembly.

The duo pointed out that as a tribal state, Nagaland was created under unique political circumstances and with special political considerations. As such, the Senden invited

People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) leaders and other “elitist individuals sitting in their ivory towers” to come and spend some time in Nagaland in order to get acquainted with the culture, traditions and customary practices of Nagas, before getting “entangled in fruitless litigation”.

The signatories alleged that name of Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), which at this point of time, had no relevance and also a nonentity, was being “abused by a few individuals to further their hidden agenda”.

The Senden said this was nothing short of insulting the three lives lost in

D IMAPUR, APR 12 (NPN): Demand for dialysis at District Hospital Dimapur (DHD) is reportedly too high that currently there were 80 more patients in queue to get dialysis done from the hospital.

Informing this a press release, deputy chief medical officer (DCMO) Dimapur

Dr. Antoly Suu said that commissioner & secretary Health & Family Welfare Y Kikheto Sema, who visited DHD on Wednesday, expressed shock over the high demand for dialysis.

It may be recalled that Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman on August 24, 2022 inaugurated the 10-bedded dialysis unit at District Hospital Dimapur. The dialysis centre, was constructed under Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of Boeing India and Doctors For You as the implementing agency in collaboration with Health and Family Welfare department and IDAN.

During his visit, Kikhetowas appraised by medical superintendent Dr. Khrielasanuo about the additional requirements of manpower, infrastructure and equipment. Kikheto advised MS to immediately shift IPD to the newly constructed BlockB tentatively by the end of April 2023 so as to upgrade the hospital from 150-bedded to 250-bedded hospital. He stated that since DHD alone was catering to about 35% of the total patients in the State, the future goal should be to further upgrade the hospital to 500-bedded hospital.

Kikheto also directed

the EE to evaluate the viability and feasibility of the old obstetrics and gynaecology building and how long it could be occupied safely. He also suggested that future buildings should be designed keeping in mind the lack of space. C&S directed the contractor to complete the much-awaited mortuary building by july 2023. Kikheto, who also inspected the boundary of DHD, stated that no encroachment should be allowed henceforth and settle all land disputes at the earli est with the help of the district administration.

Churches destroyed in NE by BJP govts: NPCC

DIMAPUR, APR 12 (NPN):

Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has accused the BJP governments of destroying Churches in the North East region and said that no leader raised voice on the issue in the Parliament or Assembly.

NPCC through its communications department stated that a Church was destroyed recently in Assam and three Churches-- Evangelical Baptist Convention Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church Manipur and Catholic Holy Spirit Church-- demolished in Manipur on April 11, 2023.

NPCC said that one of the demolished churches was

constructed in 1974. Alleging that Manipur chief minister had refused to comment on the demolition of Churches, NPCC said even chief ministers of Nagaland, Mizoram, and Meghalaya remained a silent spectator.

NPCC said Christians were 41% in Manipur, but there was no respect for its citizens by Manipur government. “It looks like BJP has already assessed the weakness of Christian members in the Parliament and State assemblies,” NPCC said. However, NPCC said that to remain in power and in the good book of the BJP government has become greater than their faith for the Chris-

tian legislators. NPCC questioned how many Churches in the tribal areas have construction permission? It also asked whether all the Churches that did not have construction permits be allowed to be destroyed? Congress party maintained that time has come for the Christians “to think deeper than just money and power.” Stating that the issue was now survival of faith and identity as North and West India vote for Hindu Nationalism while others vote for their pride and identity, the NPCC said that northeast “should no longer ignore the threat to our faith and identity.”

2017 during the people’s movement against the Nagaland Municipal, 2001 which has now been repealed.

The Senden demanded to know as to who were “these mothers insulting the memory of their martyred sons?”.

The duo said Ao Senden has been closely observing the subversive manoeuvrings of a handful of elitist individuals with vested interests ever since the State government had on March 28, resolved to repeal the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001, which was essentially a borrowed or photocopied Act, in toto.

Imposition of land tax needed for state’s revenue & progress: Mannen

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, APR 12

(NPN): Adviser law & justice and land revenue, T.N. Mannen reiterated that Article 371 (A) which was enacted as per the 16 Point Agreement, does not speak on non-imposition of land tax; whereas it was mentioned in clauses 4 & 5 of the 9 Point Naga- Akbar Hydari Accord with NNC in 1947 (which was not enacted). Stressing on need to collect revenue, Mannen asked unless the state collected revenue on land then how would the state gener-

Dimapur traffic 2-day trial run for bridge repair works

DIMAPUR, APR 12

(NPN): As per the decision taken by the competent authorities, traffic diversion plan has been formulated for rehabilitation works over Road Over Bridge (ROB) near Hotel Tragopan on NH-29. In this regard, a twoday trial run would be conducted along the proposed diverted routes to assess the traffic flow and volume and its feasibility during the actual rehabilitation work of ROB.

In a press release, Dimapur police PRO informed that in view of the trial run, the police would enforce route diversions and restrictions. PRO informed that

ROB would be completely cut off from both sides for any and all vehicular movement w.e.f. April 14-15, 2023.

1. Entry and exit of heavy transport vehicles will be restricted from 4am till 10pm effective from the morning of April 14, 2023. Such vehicles would only be allowed to ply between 10pm to 4am.

2. Heavy/transport vehicles coming to Dimapur from Newfield check gate and heading towards Kohima side would ply along Khermahal-City Tower-Dhobinalla-Signal Angami-Thahekhu-ThilixuToulazouma-Lungwiram junction-3rd Mile Jn-NH-29.

3. Heavy/transport vehicles coming into Dimapur from Dillai check gate heading toward Kohima side will cross DC Court junction towards PWDMidland-Dhobinalla-Signal Angami-Thahekhu-ThilixuToulazouma-Lungwiram junction-3rd Mile Jn-NH-29.

4. Heavy/transport vehicles coming into Dimapur from Kohima side will be diverted from Green Park junction (5th Mile) towards Sovima-Selhouphe junction-Nagaland Zoological park-Thahekhu-Signal Angami-Dhobinalla-City Tower/Midland-Tragopan/ DC Court junction-Newfield check gate/Dillai check gate.

5. Another diversion for heavy/transport vehicles coming from Kohima side towards Assam would be routed to Khatkati check gate via 5th Mile Jn- Purana Bazaar-Vety Police point.

6. For other categories of vehicles (other than heavy/transport vehicles), all route (except ROB) would remain open at all times, with the following restrictions:

a. Routes along GS road and Marwaripatti have been declared as a one-sided parking zone.

b. Convergent point of Khermahal, Eros Lane and Deluxe Point has been declared as a No-Parking Zone.

c. No vehicles would be allowed to enter Eros Lane from Deluxe Point side.

d. No vehicles would be allowed to proceed to Deluxe Point from Khermahal Point.

e. All vehicles approaching Deluxe Point from Eros Lane would only be allowed entry toward the Railway flyover.

f. The route from DNSU Office/Fire Station point toward Police ColonyHotel Jal Mahal Jn has been declared as One-Way. No vehicles would be allowed entry from Hotel Jal Mahal Jn. towards Fire Station.

ate revenue? He said this while speaking at the felicitation programme organised in his honour at the conference Hall of Directorate of Land Records and Survey (DLRS) on Wednesday.

Mannen maintained that it depended on Nagas

DIMAPUR, APR 12

(NPN): Yung Aung-led

NSCN (K) commander-inchief ‘gen.’ Th Kumchok and dy. commander-in-chief ‘lt. gen.’ Tumching have refuted the false propaganda and allegations levelled against its president Yung Augn by ‘maj. Gen.’ Langnyei, GSO-I.

In a statement, Kumchok and Tumching said that Langnyei had defamed them by dragging in their name in the conspiracy against the president, which was of his own making and had no legal sense whatsoever. “His defamatory statement is a part of a well-prepared conspiracy to create division among the NSCN/

on how to make use of the provisions under Article 371A even if non-imposition of tax on land of Nagas was not mentioned in it. Emphasising on the need for collection of land revenue so the state could generate revenue, Mannen also said that as land was the only asset for Nagas, it should never be alienated to non-Nagas. Mannen cited the 9-Point Agreement in which the Naga National Council (NNC) reaffirmed (clause 4) that land tax should not be alienated to non-Nagas.

GPRN national workers and to bring bad light to the leadership of Mr. Yung Aung in the eye of the Naga people,” they said.

As C-in-C and Dy Cin-C of the Naga Army, they declared and denounced that the so-called Naga Army meeting of April 8, 2023 at GHQ area was “illegal and unconstitutional” and do not represent the opinion of the Naga army.

They further said that the Naga army was fully intact and would continue to serve the Naga people under the leadership of president Yung Aung and will stand by whatever decision taken by the government on this issue.

Cases likely to start subsiding after 10-12 days

Ministers, advisors and chairman hold meetings with departments

DIMAPUR: After being allotted incharge of departments, the newly appointed ministers, advisors and chairman held coordination meetings with their respective departments. Apart from this, departments also organised introductory and felicitation programmes to welcome the ministers, advisors and chairman.

Planning and Trans-

formation: Department of Planning and Transformation (P&T) held a meeting with the deputy chief minister incharge of Planning & National Highways T.R. Zeliang at Nagaland Civil Secretariat Conference Hall on April 12.

A DIRP report stated that Zeliang speaking at the meeting, said that re-naming of Planning & Coordination Department to Planning & Transformation was necessitated due to the many changes in the development and planning domain during the past years. He informed the DPOs to re- activate and to update themselves with the progress of development activities taking

DoS&WC: Department of Soil and Water Conservation (DoS&WC) organised a felicitation programme for its advisor, Imkong L. Imchen, and a valedictory programme of 21st Batch, Soil Conservation Assistant (SCA) trainees on April 12 at Research and Training Centre, Sechu Zubza.

According to a DIPR report, Imkong L. Imchen said that every government employee was bound to serve the people and likewise he was there to serve the people and deliver good governance.

The advisor assured to “negotiate with the government” to give more priority to the graduated Soil and Conservation Assistant (SCA), regarding job placement as per the availability of the vacancies since the job itself involves technical

place in the district and sub- division under various departments so that the department can transform the face of the state. Earlier, the programme began with an invocation by deputy development commissioner Kezunyipeu Teno.

Welcome address was delivered by principal secretary & development commissioner, R. Ramakrishan. A presentation about Planning Department was made by deputy development commissioner Chorayi Veyie. Deputy development commissioner, Pudusul Luho presented about the schemes and project director Er. Mhathung Kithan presented about GIS & RS Centre.

Cooperation: Minister, Public Health Engineering (PHE) and Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi on April 12 visited Cooperative Societies office in Kohima after taking over as the minister in-charge and held a meeting with the officials at Registrar of Cooperative Societies office, Kohima.

Addressing the officials and staff of Cooperation department, Jacob said the department has huge potential to uplift the people of the state and called upon the officers and staff to work hand in hand for the welfare of the public.

Suggesting that the department explore new arenas such as piggery as Nagas are “meat lovers”, the minister said there was a “huge fiscal responsibility

for meat procurement.”

He pointed out the state spend huge amount of money in procuring meat from other parts of the country and mooted the need to sit with the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services to work out a collective venture. While commending the “One Village, One Cooperative Society” module, Jacob also called to focus on the need to streamline the non-performing cooperative societies.

Speeches were also delivered by commissioner and secretary, Sehjang Doungel and registrar of co-operative societies Nagaland, Temjen Longkumer while deputy registrar of co-operative societies, Bokato Hesso delivered the introductory remark. (Correspondent)

behalf of the department, welcomed the advisor. He also hoped that the passedout 21st Batch SCA would execute their work with enthusiasm along with the existing workforce in the department.

The programme was chaired by commissioner and secretary S&WC, Libanthung Lotha and a felicitation address was delivered by director, S.K Hekshe.

Phek DPDB felici -

tates MLAs: Phek District Planning and Development Board has felicitated the newly elected legislators of Phek district at the meetingcum-felicitation programme held at the DPDB Hall Phek on April 12.

Deputy Commissioner and vice chairman DPDB Phek, Kumar Ramnikant, while welcoming the newly elected legislators, the HoDs and members of the civil societies looked forward for the guidance of the legislators for all progressive paths.

Delivering short speeches, Minister, Power & Parliamentary Affairs and chairman DPDB Phek, K.G. Kenye appreciated the officers for their efforts for the smooth conduct of

last elections. Advisor, New and renewable Energy and Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority, Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe encouraged the members to be honest and deliver justice to their work.

Advisor, Civil Administration Works Department and Taxes, Kudecho Khamo, leader of NPF Legislators Party, Kuzholuzo Nienu MLA and Dr. Neisatuo Mero MLA also spoke at the programme.

At the meeting, upgradation of Meluri SubDivision to District, up-gradation of SDO (C) Chizami to ADC Hq, work plans for the Phek district 50th Anniversary Celebration and up-gradation of Chetheba Town EAC Hq to SDO (C) Hq were discussed.

NH&TDCL: An introductory meeting and felicitation programme for the chairman of Nagaland Hotels & Tourism Development Corporation Limited (NH&TDCL), Thongwang Konyak was held on April 12 at the official chamber of chairman, Head Office, NHTDC, Dimapur.

In his speech, Konyak thanked the chief minister for the opportunity, and also advised the officers and staff to be disciplined and work collectively.

Horti Deptt.: A felicitation programme for the newly inducted minister of Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse was held on April 12 at the Conference Hall of the Directorate of Horticulture.

In her address, Kruse appreciated the programmes and activities organised by the department for the farmers and encouraged them to work harder than before so as to uplift the people and farmers of the state.

Commissioner and secretary, Women Resource Development and Horticulture, Anenla T Sato while

congratulating the minister on her induction as the first women cabinet minister of the state, hoped that she (Kruse) would take the department to new heights. As a front runner among the agri and allied departments, Sato said the department had helped in popularizing the state even in the recently concluded G20.

She also advised the department to identify the gaps and lapses and identify the potential crops and to motivate the farmers to produce the niche crops so that the state’s economy can be uplifted.

DP-1550/23

experts. Imchen also lamented that due to the meagre allocation of budget and paucity of funds, the department could not perform its fullest potential as desired and had faced unforeseen negative impacts over the years. The advisor said 107 highly qualified officers in the department were left with nothing to do despite

having high technical and scientific knowledge to boost up the departmental activities in many areas due to low budgetary allocation. However, he assured fullest cooperation to uplift and bring more changes to the department.

Additional director and principal, Research, and Training Centre Sechu Zubza, L. Chubaonen, on

DP-1571/23

5th

DP-1521/23

13.04.2018

Dearest Moasen, Today will always be etched forever in our hearts as it marks the day you passed on to glory. We are assured of your Heavenly dwelling and we know you are in the best place one could ever be. But here on earth, we miss your presence around us. We think of you always and still talk about you. If only our wishes came true, we'd wish for you to be back with us.

Years are passing by after you left for your eternal home and not a day passes by without the thought of you in our hearts. It is the times we shared together when you were here with us that keeps us strong and going on. You are deeply missed.

"Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with Him, we will also live with Him; if we endure, we will also reign with Him" - 2 Timothy 2:11-12.

Late Nrio Patton

1st April, 1938 to 8th April, 2023

Dear family, friends, and community, We are deeply grateful for your love and support during this difficult time as we mourn the loss of my beloved husband and our father and grandfather Late Nrio Patton. Your kindness, thoughts, and prayers have brought us comfort and peace during this trying time. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the following individuals and groups:

1. Family, In-laws, Relatives and Friends

2. Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur

3. Pastors, Deacon & Deaconess of Sector Lotha Baptist Church, Nagarjan

4. Old Riphyim Gazetted Officers Forum

5. Dimapur Riphyim Ekhung

6. Shri. Y. Patton, Dy. CM, Home and Border Affairs, Nagaland

7. Dr. Nicky Kire and Family

8. Alobo Naga and Family

9. Dr. John Khing (Olive Hospital)

10. Olive Hospital and Staff

11. Shri Thungbemo Patton, SDO Civil Kuhuboto

12. West Dimapur Riphyim Khumshum

13. Shri Rentsamo Patton, Proprietor VIP Tent House, Duncan Bosti

14. Eastern Bible College

15. A.G. Church, Bank Colony

16. A.G. Hr. Sec.

T.R. Zeliang addresses P&T meeting

DoS&WC holds felicitation programme for Imkong L. Imchen

NH&TDCL holds introductory meeting with Thongwang Konyak

Jacob Zhimomi visits Cooperative Societies office Phek DPDB felicitates legislators Horti Dept fetes Salhoutuonuo Kruse

T.R. Zeliang addressing the meeting.

Jacob Zhimomi at the meeting with the officers. K.G. Kenye speaking at the felicitation programme.

Salhoutuonuo Kruse speaking at the programme.

Imkong L. Imchen at the felicitation programme

Thongwang Konyak with the employees of NH&TDCL at the meeting.

NEXT POLL

PRI-CBO convergence project in Nagaland

DIMAPUR: A two-day state level stakeholders’ workshop to develop a state operational framework to implement the Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI)-Community Based Organizations (CBO) convergence activities in Nagaland was held on April 11-12 at Hotel de Oriental Grand, Kohima.

A press release by Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) informed that 12 departments and related agencies participated in the workshop organised by NSRLM. NSRLM said convergence was a challenge especially with departments working within their own annual action plan targets. However, coordination has also been initiated in some areas, with or without signing of MoUs, especially for the community beneficiaries in projects

KPK resolves

DIMAPUR: Keltomi

Phuthemi Kuposhukulu (KPK), which held its meeting of executives [all the kukami (GBs)] on April 12, 2023, has resolved to hold prayer programme for the new office bearers at Zukihe village on April 28, 2023. KPK has, therefore, invited all Keltomi residing outside the village to the proposed prayer programme.

The workshop in progress in Kohima on April 11. and schemes, and flagship campaigns amongst various departments. It said the workshop was organised to further strengthen convergence efforts at the grassroots level through the existing community institutions.

Given the village councils structure in the state, NSRLM said the state operational frame -

work would be designed to include the features of the structure in the overall architecture. NSRLM said it would be supported by Kudumbashree, a MoRD empanelled National Resource Organization (NRO) based in Kerala as knowledge and technical support partner. The objectives of the workshop was to initiate

preparation of the state operational framework for PRI-CBO convergence; involvement of different stakeholders at the state level to prepare this plan; role of different stakeholders in the implementation of PRI-CBO convergence; planning for upcoming activities namely, drafting of MoU between the NSRLM and NRO; forma-

Phek DPDB recommends district status for Meluri

tion of core committee for drafting and finalization of the State Operational Framework.

In Nagaland, NSRLM said the NRO support would be through universalization strategy covering 11 RD Blocks.

On day one of the workshop, presentation on universal roll out of PRI-CBO convergence was highlighted by Harshita Jha and Madhulika Joshi, thematic anchors, NRO Kudumbashree.

Scoping study report was presented by Meghna Sen and Qheboka Sumi, NRO while chief operation officer, NSRLM, M. Rollan Lotha spelt out the goal and vision statement of NSRLM. Objective setting was presented by program manager, NSRLM, Kenivole Richa and Khriezovonuo Lhoungu delivered the welcome and introductory note.

Be agents of change: DEO Wokha to school heads Students screened on ‘Oral health’

Correspondent

WOKHA, APR 12 (NPN): District Education Officer (DEO) Wokha, Nzanbemo Ngullie urged all government school heads under Wokha district to be agents of change and to be leaders of not only their respective schools but also of their society. He said this while addressing one-day orientation programme for all heads of government school under Wokha district here at WDVCCA Conference Hall, Wokha Town on April 11.

Ngullie asserted that the success or failure of the educational system would largely depend on the dedication, hard work, and efficiency of the head of the school. Reminiscing on

his teaching days, Ngullie opined that, as teachers and heads of school, one ought to be ready to change their mindsets, evaluate themselves and to compare their performances as they had a responsibility to deliver for the betterment of society. He also appealed to the heads of school to set aside at least one day in a month for cultural activities like teaching of traditional crafts; folk stories, dances and songs; allowing students to attend class wearing traditional attires, among other activities. Delivering the keynote address, senior Sub-Divisional Education Officer (SDEO) Wokha, W. Nzanbemo Humtsoe said the orientation programme was held so that the school heads

could update themselves to the changing environment and times. He further urged them to work with zeal towards the progress of their schools.

During the programme, Government Middle School (GMS) Wokha Town ‘A’ head teacher R. Loreni Ngullie shared her experiences as head teacher over the years while students of GMS Wokha Town ‘C’ presented a special number on the occasion.

In the technical session, TOT K. Chumchano Tsanglao dwelt at length on NEP 2020, NIPUN Bharat, Vidya Pravesh and TLMs; DMA Wokha project assistant-cum-accountant on matters relating to accountancy and PFMS; DMA Wokha project as -

sistant Rhondeno Kikon on vocational education, self-defence training programme for girl students, maintenance of school library, and pre-primary and Montessori education; DMA Wokha project assistant T. Ezanthung Lotha on CWSN, inclusive education, and ICT; and Light House Project (NECTAR) Wokha district project assistant Chumben Yanthan made an exhaustive presentation on the World Bank-aided project for enhancing education which is currently implemented in the district and state.

Samagra Shiksha

Wokha assistant district coordinator K. Chandemo Patton delivered the concluding remarks at the orientation programme.

DIMAPUR: A screening camp for school children on “Oral health” was organised by medical team of Pungro Community Health Centre (CHC) on April 12 at Little Flower School (LFS) and Government Primary School (GPS) Pungro, Kiphire. A press release by the medical department informed that the programme, which was part of the world oral cancer screening month, was led by medical officer of Pungro CHC, Dr.Weri Mero. During the camp, 997 students were screened on oral cancer and minor dental procedure was also provided to them. Apart from the screening the students were also sensitized on oral health.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 12 (NPN): Phek District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) on Wednesday recommended upgradation of Meluri Sub Division to a full- fledged district. The board recommended after the agenda was brought forwarded by Pochury Hoho (PH) at the meeting of Phek DPDB, which was also attended by all the five elected legislators of Phek district.

After hearing from PH president Chonpa Jurry and Z.Nyusietho

Nyuthe (an elected representative from 20 Meluri A/C), Phek DC and vice chairman DPDB Kumar Ramnikant, informed that since no objection has been received at the meeting, the board will communicate its recommendation to the concerned department for further course of action. It may be recalled that Pochury Hoho alongwith other frontal organizations had submitted memorandums addressed to the chief minister in 2021 and 2022 for upgradation of Meluri sub division to a full-fledged district.

Steps taken to implement Act East policy: Reddy

AGARTALA, APR 11

(PTI): Emphasizing close ties between India’s Northeast and Bangladesh, Do -

NER Minister G Kishan

Reddy on Tuesday asserted that the Narendra Modi government has taken concrete steps to implement the Act East policy for mutual benefits. “The Bay of Bengal is very close to the Northeast and there is a need for cooperation from its immediate neighbour, Bangladesh, for development of the region,” he said during the third India-Japan Intellectual Conclave here.

Highlighting the Modi government’s efforts for developing connectivity, Reddy mentioned the number of airports in the region has increased from nine in 2014 to 17 in 2023.

“Rs 5 lakh crore has been spent for growth in the region, Rs 1 lakh crore has been spent for road works and Rs 77,000 crore has been invested in railway connectivity in the past nine years,” he said.

Cargo movement between NE and Chittagong port to start soon

he pointed out.

Alam also made an offer to have a one-day meeting of ministers of all northeastern states in Dhaka for a discussion on increasing trade and business.

Ambassador of Japan to India, Hiroshi Suzuki, threw light on the trade and business possibilities in the Bay of Bengal.

“Japan and Bangladesh are working closely for mutual benefits with 338 Japanese companies working there. The 7 per cent growth in Bangladesh is phenomenal and it has a good future,” he said.

AGARTALA, APR 12

(PTI): Transit and transhipment of cargo between Northeastern India and Bangladesh using Chittagong port will start soon, the neighbouring country’s Minister of State for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury said here on Wednesday.

Tripura is set to become the ‘Gateway of North East’ with access to Chittagong port of Bangladesh, which is just 70 kilometres from Sabroom in the northeastern state, he said.

movement of passengers and goods from Chittagong Port.

After the bridge is made operational, it will also help Bangladesh’s trade with Nepal and Bhutan, Chowdhury said.

Reddy said Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a vibrant village project in Arunachal Pradesh on Monday.

“The central government has set a target of covering all the isolated and Himalayan areas with telecommunication by this year”, he said.

“The use of Chit -

tagong and Mongla ports will further strengthen the connectivity with Bangladesh. We need to work together for the mutual benefit of both sides”, he said. Reddy also thanked Japan for being an important development partner not only for the Northeast but also for the entire nation.

Bangladesh Foreign

Top space scientists, diplomats of G20 nations to meet in Shillong

Correspondent

SHILLONG, APR 12:

Preparations are afoot for the G-20 meeting in this mountainous state capital of Meghalaya scheduled to be held on April 17 and 18. The meeting would be held in one of the 5-star hotels here on the topic “space economy leaders meet” in which several top space scientists, diplomats and ambassadors of G20 nations are scheduled to attend the event jointly organised by the Department of Space, Ministry of External Affairs and the Meghalaya government. “The objective of the 4th Space Economy Leaders Meeting (SELM) India is to create awareness among the wider audience on the significance of space economy and to discuss the discuss the perspectives of the respective G20 countries on space economy,” a senior government official from the Department of Space, told this correspondent over the phone from New Delhi.

“A session on policy perspectives of space economy is also planned wherein there will be curated talks on specific aspects of space economy by think-tanks and experts,” he added.

Moreover, the DoS informed that there will be a session to brief about the plans for the SELM event to be organised at Bengaluru, Karnataka during July 6-7, 2023. While SELM acknowledge the contribution of New Space to the growth of space ‘Economy’, he said the need for the New Space actors to assume the responsibility of ensuring the long term sustainability of the outer space should not be missed.

Meanwhile, a senior Meghalaya government official said, the delegates would arrive in the city on April 16 and the next day the meeting would be held. The next day the delegates would be taken on sightseeing visit to the state capital and to Sohra, the wettest place on earth. At

7 Myanmar nationals held in Imphal airport

Correspondent

IMPHAL, APR 12: Seven suspected Myanmar nationals, including two juveniles, arriving at Imphal Airport by a flight from Pune were detained at the foreigner check post of the airport on Tuesday, a police source said on Wednesday.

The suspects landed at the Bir Tikendrajit International Airport from Pune via Kolkata by Indigo flight (No. 6E-6359/6E-822), the source said.

The adult suspected Myanmar nationals were identified as Suankhan Khai (28) son of Lian Khan Khyal of Tuimui Chin district of Myanmar, Kam Sia Khai (19) son of Lia Za Vai of Kale Sagaing Region, Cing Num Eng (26) daughter of

Thaum khan Lam of Lum Maul village in Chin district, Thanglamchin (21) son of Lang Khango of Tuimui in Chin district of Myanmar and Niang Lun Kin (26) daughter of Pun Khan Thang of Kale Sagaing Region in Myanmar.

None of them possessed valid travel documents. They, however, processed Indian Aadhaar card and PAN card, the police said. The five adults were sent to a foreigners detention centre while the two juveniles were placed at state-run juvenile observation homes.

A regular case has been registered at Singjamei police station of Imphal West district for further legal action against them, the police added.

least three union ministers would be attending the meet together with the foreign and Indian delegates. Former CEO, NIT Ayog, Amitabh Kant would be Sherpa for the event.

“Union Minister of State, department of Space, Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Choudhury and Minister of State External Affairs, V Muraleedharan would be attending the meeting along with the other delegates,” Member Secretary, State Council of Science Technology & Environment, Dr. Joram Beda said.

“As many as 26 diplomats from different G-20 countries would be attending the meeting. Three think tanks from abroad together with 36 Indian Space Research Organization officials and scientists would also attend the meet,” he said. Beda informed representatives from 14 startups from India from the space sector would also be attending the meeting.

Heroin worth Rs 9 cr seized in Assam

DIPHU (ASSAM), MAR 12 (PTI): A huge quantity of heroin, valued at around Rs nine crore in the international market, have been seized from a truck in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district on Wednesday, police said.

One person was arrested in this connection.

Acting on a tip-off, a joint operation was launched by the police of Karbi Anglong and Golaghat districts along with CRPF at Khakrajan area under Barpathar police station.

During the operation, the security personnel found 140 soap cases full of heroin in a truck. The containers of the drug weighing 1.8 kgs were hidden in the chassis of the truck which was coming from Manipur, police said.

The driver of the vehicle was arrested.

Affairs Minister (State)

Shahriar Alam said his country achieved a miracle in the last 10 years with a growth rate of 7 per cent.

“It has become an example for others. India is our closest friend and Dhaka is ready for business with its neighbours. We have already established 365 days of connectivity with India”,

AGP to strengthen party base for Lok Sabha polls

GUWAHATI, APR 12

(PTI): The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), an ally of the ruling BJP in Assam, on Wednesday said it will contest in a few Lok Sabha seats next year in order to have representation in the Lower House. Addressing a gathering on the eve of ‘Bihu’ festival, AGP president Atul Bora said the party will start a series of programmes across Assam to strengthen its organisational base.

“Along with that, we are also working on having our representative in the Lok Sabha to raise the issues affecting Assamese people in the national capital. The period after ‘Bihu’ is going to be crucial for us,” he said.

Bora, who is also the agriculture minister of the state, said many new workers have joined the AGP in recent times and the need of the hour is to channelise their energy and enthusiasm.

“With Matabari deep sea port coming up in Bangladesh 2027, Northeast India will be opened up for the whole globe. The days are not long when the Bay of Bengal will be a new industrial hub and Japan is very interested in working in Bangladesh. Dhaka is one of the most benefited nations under Official Development Assistance (ODA) by Japan”, he said.

“We are ready for the start of transit and transhipment of goods between Bangladesh and the northeastern region of India through Chittagong. Trial runs were completed and all arrangements for immigration and customs formalities on the Bangladesh side are also ready,” Chowdhury told PTI. The Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO), required for the movement of cargo from Bangladesh to India,

Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury

will be issued by the National Board of Revenue.

“This is, however, awaited till now,” said the minister who is here to attend a programme.

The immigration office on the Indian side is almost complete and Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha recently inspected the site at Sabroom.

A 1.9-km-long Maitree Setu, the ‘friendship bridge’ over the river Feni, connecting Sabroom with Bangladesh, was jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina on March 9, 2021. This will facilitate

The Bangladesh minister said a new deep sea port is also being developed by the government of Japan at Matarbari in Cox’s Bazar near Chittagong port and this would be completed by 2027. This too would help the carriage of goods from Bangladesh to Tripura.

The relationship between Japan, Bangladesh and India is cordial and after the completion of the Matarbari port, a huge investment is expected there which will assist in developing Bangladesh and India’s northeastern region, he added.

Chowdhury said Ashuganj port on the river Meghna, about 50 km from Tripura capital Agartala will be jointly revamped by the governments of India and Bangladesh.

PM Modi to launch development projects in Assam

NEW DELHI, APR 12 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch development projects, including an All India Institute of Medical Sciences, (AIIMS) and three medical colleges, worth around Rs 14,300 crore, during a visit to Assam on Friday.

Among other projects, Modi will lay the foundation stone of a bridge on the Brahmaputra river connecting Palashbari and Sualkuchi and also launch the beautification exercise of Rang Ghar, Sivasaga, a statement said.

One of the highlights of Modi’s visit will be a mega Bihu dance which will feature more than 10,000 performers.

He will also lay the foundation stone of Assam Advanced Health Care Innovation Institute (AAHII) and launch ‘Aapke Dwar Ayushman’ campaign by distributing Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPMJAY) cards to eligible beneficiaries.

He will attend a pro-

gramme to mark the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Guwahati High Court at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, Guwahati.

In the evening, the statement said, Modi will reach Sarusajai Stadium, Guwahati to preside over a public function where he will witness the Bihu programme and also lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various development projects.

The operationalisation of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, (AIIMS), Guwahati will mark a momentous occasion for the state of Assam and the entire North-East region, it said, asserting that this is a testimony of Modi’s commitment to strengthening health infrastructure across

Looting of arms from Kuki militant outfits’ armoury amid ceasefire being probed

IMPHAL, APRIL 12

(IANS): The Manipur police is probing Sundays looting of arms by suspected militants belonging to the Kuki Independent Army (KIA) who took away 25 sophisticated arms from the armoury of three militant groups staying in a designated camp under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement in Manipur, the police said on Wednesday.

A senior police official said that no one has been arrested so far after the looting of arms by the militants of the KIA (also known as the Kuki Independent Organisation) from the designated camp of three militant groups at Chungkhao in Churachandpur district bordering Myanmar.

The Manipur-based KIA is a non-signatory to the tripartite ceasefire pact with the government.

“Immediately after the early Sunday incident, a high alert has been sounded and all the concerned police stations and security posts have been asked to remain vigilant to recover the looted weapons and to nab the fleeing KIA extremists,” the official said, refusing to be named. The militants of three outfits -- the Kuki National Army (KNA), Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA) and Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA) -- have been staying in the designated camp after the Centre and the Manipur government signed the tripartite agreement and SoO with these outfits on August

22, 2008. The hilly and forested Churachandpur district in southern Manipur, which borders Myanmar and Mizoram, is home to various Kuki-Chin militant groups. The arms loot took place three days after the Manipur police announced a reward of Rs 50,000 to any person, who provides information leading to the arrest of KIA chief Thangkhongam Haokip (40).

The Manipur government last month unilaterally pulled out from the tripartite talks and SoO signed with three Kuki militant outfits even though the Union Home Ministry is yet to give its approval to the state government’s decision.

Meet resolves to press for National Register of Citizens in Manipur

Correspondent

IMPHAL, APR 12: A ‘OneDay Consultative Discussion on the Implementation of National Register of Citizens in Manipur’ held in Imphal on Wednesday passed a unanimous resolution to press the Manipur government for introduction of NRC in the state.

The discussion programme was jointly hosted by six students’ bodies campaigning for the introduction of NRC in the state in the last few months. All Manipur Students’ Union

(AMSU), Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF), Democratic Students’ Alliance of Manipur (DESAM), Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA), Students’ Union of Kangleipak (SUK) and Apunmba Ireipakki Maheiroi Sinpanglup (AIMS) have been campaigning for the implementation of the NRC in Manipur.

The discussion held at the City Convention Centre, Imphal was attended by representatives of various civil society organizations based both in the hills and the valley of the state, stu-

dents’ leaders, intellectuals, lawyers and academicians

It was moderated by former acting chairperson of Manipur Human Rights Commission advocate Khaidem Mani Singh.

Professor Dr RK Narendra of department of biostatistics, RIMS and head of department of law of Manipur University Dr Yumnam Premananda attended as resource persons.

In his opening remark, resource person Dr Yumnam Premananda, categorically explained the processes for the implementation of

the NRC. The introduction of NRC in a state lies with the Central government.

As such a strong pressure from the state government is needed for the Centre to address the demand of the state. “The state government should push the Centre as the implementation of the NRC needs a gazette notification,” he said. For the state of Manipur, now is a good time as both the governments at the Centre and in the state are led by the BJP. It would not be a hard task for the Manipur government to convince

the Centre, he opined. As such students’ bodies and CSOs whose roles are indispensable must not leave any stone unturned to press the ‘double engine’ government to materialize the long pending demand of the people of the state, he suggested.

Meanwhile, Maibam Julesh, spokesperson of the six students’ bodies hosting the discussion said that the students’ bodies have been campaigning for the implementation of the NRC in the state. He said they had also submitted a joint

the country. The foundation stone of this hospital was also laid by Modi in May 2017.

Built at a cost of over Rs 1,120 crore, the AIIMS Guwahati is a state-of-theart Hospital having capacity of 750 beds, including 30 AYUSH beds.

Patient care services at AIIMS, Guwahati had started with telemedicine from August last year and limited OPD for local residents began in September

This hospital will have an annual intake capacity of 100 MBBS students and will provide world class health facilities to the people of north east.

The three medical colleges at Nalbari, Nagaon and Kokrajhar have been built at a cost of about Rs 615 crore, Rs 600 crore and Rs 535 crore respectively. Each medical college will have an annual intake capacity of 100 MBBS students, it said.

The ceremonial launch of ‘Aapke Dwar Ayushman’ campaign is a step towards realising

Regd. No. 140/11.04.23

Modi’s vision of reaching out to every beneficiary to ensure 100 percent saturation of welfare schemes, it said.

The prime minister will distribute Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPMJAY) cards to three representative beneficiaries, which will be followed by the distribution of about 1.1 crore AB-PMJAY cards in all districts of the state.

Laying the foundation stone of Assam Advanced Health Care Innovation Institute (AAHII) is a step towards realising Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Atmnirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ in the areas related to health, it said. During the programme at the high court, Modi will launch a mobile application ‘Assam Cop’ designed by the Assam Police. The app will facilitate accused and vehicle search from the database of Crime and Criminal Network Tracking System (CCTNS) and the VAHAN national register, it said.

AffidAvit

Date 11.04.2023

I, the undersigned EASTON KICHU, now lately called LANRILIU PANMEI, aged about 41years resident of Ward-09, Chumoukedima Town, DistrictChümoukedima, Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm on oath and declare as under :

1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India and presently residing at the above mentioned address.

2. That, I wholly renounce/relinquish and abandon the use of my former name/surname of LANRILIU PANMEI and in place thereof I do hereby assume from this date the name/surname as EASTON KICHU, and so that I hereafter be called, know and distinguished not by my former name/ surname but assured name/surname of EASTON KICHU.

3. That I wholly renounce/relinquish and abandon the use of my father’s name/surname of late REUBEN and in place thereof I do hereby assume and from this date the father’s name/surname of AKANG AO, and so that I hereafter be called, know and distinguished not by my former father’s name/surname but assumed father’s name/surname of AKANG AO.

4. That for the purpose of evidencing such my determination declare that I shall all time hereafter in all records, deeds and writings in all the proceedings, dealings and transactions, private as well as and upon all occasions what-so-ever use and sign the name of EASTON KICHU as my name/surname and the name of AKANG AO as my father’s name/father’s surname in place and in substitution for my former name/surname and father’s name/surname.

5. That I expressly authorize and request all persons in general, relatives and friends in particular at all times hereafter to designate and address me by such assumed name/surname of EASTON KICHU accordingly.

DEPONENT

Solemnly sworn before me by the deponent on this the 11th day of April, 2023 at Chümoukedima.

DP-1572/23

Regd. No. 1404/2022

memorandum to the Union home minister highlighting the need for immediate implementation of NRC in the state in view of the increasing influx of illegal immigrants.

Wednesday’s programme was hosted with the objective of building a unity among the indigenous communities and tribes residing in the state to save Manipur from being engulfed by the illegal immigrants. A unanimous resolution to be taken after the consultative discussion will be submitted to the government, he said.

MAGiStRAt NOtARY PUBLiC

AffidAvit

Date 11/11/2022 I, Smti KUVELUNO SHIJOH, D/o Shri. Mutsezo Shijoh, Permanent resident of Ruzazho Village, Phek District, Nagaland. Do hereby solemnly affirm and declare on oath as follows:

1. That I am the citizen of India and a resident of the above mentioned address.

2. That my actual and correct NAME is “KUVELUNO SHIJOH” which has been recorded in all my official documents including my Aadhaar Card, PAN Card etc., however in my Educational Certificates my name was inadvertently recorded as “KUVELUNO” i.e., without my surname “SHIJOH” in my High School Leaving Certificate, Exam Marks-sheet and Admit Card bearing Roll B17- 882 No. 0840 of 27H1037 – Little Angel’s English School, under Board of Secondary Education Assam.

3. That, the variations such as “KUVELUNO SHIJOH” @ “KUVELUNO” are synonymous and indistinguishable.

4. That, for the purpose of evidencing and certificate declare that hereafter I shall at all times hereafter in all records, deeds and writing and in all proceedings, dealings and transactions, private as well as upon all occasions whatsoever, use my name “KUVELUNO SHIJOH” for all future purposes.

5. That, the affidavit shall be produced as a piece of documentary proof and evidence as and when required before any competent authority/ies to declare that the names “KUVELUNO SHIJOH” @ “KUVELUNO” are synonymous and pertains to the name of one and the same person and that henceforth I shall use and be addressed as “KUVELUNG SHIJOH” for all official purposes, intent and future correspondence before the concerned authorities.

6. That the averments in the foregoing para 1 to 7 are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing material has been concealed therein and I signed this affidavit on this 11th day of November 2022.

G Kishan Reddy speaking at the third India-Japan Intellectual Conclave.

Narendra Modi

SNIPPETS

Nitish meets Kejriwal in Delhi

NEW DELHI, APR

12 (PTI): Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday met his Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal at his residence in the national capital. Kumar was accompanied by his deputy Tejashwi Yadav, sources said. This comes hours after the Bihar chief minister met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. In a joint press conference with Kharge, Gandhi and Yadav, Kumar said, “We will make all efforts to unite more and more parties in the country. We will make all efforts, sit together, and work unitedly.” “After today’s discussions, we will move forward on that basis. All those who agree will sit together and decide the future course of action,” he added. Kumar arrived here on Tuesday to meet Opposition leaders.

Earthquake of 4.3

magnitude hits Bihar

PURNEA/KATIHAR/ PATNA (BIHAR), APR

12 (PTI): An earthquake of 4.3 magnitude on the Richter Scale shook parts of Bihar on Wednesday.

No loss of life or damage to properties was reported in the earthquake that hit around 5.35 am. The quake was epicentred 10 km beneath the ground near Purnea, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). Tremors were felt in Katihar and adjoining areas of Araria.

Delhi school evacuated after bomb threat

NEW DELHI, APR 12 (PTI): A school in Delhi’s Defence Colony was evacuated Wednesday morning after an e-mail said there were bombs on the premises, police said. The bomb squad and other agencies are inspecting the school for any such explosive substances, they said. A senior police officer said a person named Brijesh of Indian School, BRT Road, informed them about the email. The email was received at 10:49 am, the officer said. The school has been evacuated and a thorough check is being conducted by the team, he added.

Fire breaks out at godown

NEW DELHI, APR 12 (PTI): A fire broke out at a godown in outer Delhi’s Narela area on Wednesday morning, Delhi Fire Service officials said.

No injuries or casualties have been reported so far, they added. A senior fire official said a call about the fire was received around 10 am and eight fire tenders were rushed to the spot.

Nitish, Tejashwi hold ‘historic’ meet with Kharge, Rahul

NEW DELHI, APR 12 (PTI): Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav held a “historic” meeting with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday, and decided to bring together as many opposition parties as possible to take on the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing a joint press conference after the meeting, Kharge said the opposition will together protect the Constitution and democracy and unitedly give a new direction to the country.

Rahul Gandhi said the opposition will together develop its vision for the country and present the same before people as they fight the ongoing ideological battle together.

This is the first formal effort in forging an opposition unity ahead of next year’s election. The Congress chief would be meeting top leaders of various Opposition parties in the coming few days.

“We held a historic meeting here. A lot of issues were discussed and we decided that we will unite all parties and fight the upcoming polls in a united

manner. We have made this decision and all of us will work for this,” Gandhi told reporters while lauding the efforts of Kumar, Yadav and others sitting along with him.

He said the leaders present at the meeting will work on a common line of thought and asserted that efforts were being made in this regard.

Gandhi termed the meeting a “historic step” to unite the Opposition.

“In this battle of ideology, a historic step has been taken today towards the unity of the opposition. Standing together, will fight together - for India,” Gandhi said in a tweet in Hindi and shared his picture with other leaders.

AAP protests ‘false’ cases filed against Manish Sisodia

The JDU tweeted in Hindi, saying, “Nitish ji will prove to be the architect of opposition unity in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.”

Asked how many opposition parties will come together, Gandhi said, “This is a process and we will develop the opposition’s vision for the country and all those parties that will come together with us, we will together fight the ongoing ideological fight in the country.”

“We will unitedly stand against the attack on institutions, the attack on the country,” he said, adding a very important step has been taken today.

The meeting at Kharge’s residence comes amid talks of like-minded

opposition parties coming together on a common platform to defeat the BJP in next year’s Lok Sabha elections.

In his remarks, the Bihar chief minister said, “We will make all efforts to unite more and more parties in the country. We will make all efforts, sit together, and work unitedly, this has been decided.”

“After today’s discussions we will move forward on that basis. All those who agree will sit together and decide the future course of action,” he said.

In a tweet in Hindi, Kharge said, “Will preserve the Constitution and save democracy. Rahul Gandhi ji and we met Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar ji, Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav ji and other leaders, reiterated our resolve to raise the voice of the people together and give a new direction to the country.”

The leaders also had a lunch at Kharge’s residence, where JDU president Lalan Singh, Bihar Congress chief Akhilesh Prasad Singh, Congress leader Salman Khurshid and RJD leader Manoj Jha were also present.

“The purpose of the

meeting was to unite all parties. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar has been given the special task to reach out to (Opposition) party leaders. The Congress is also talking to some parties,” Bihar Congress chief Akhilesh Prasad Singh said after the meeting.

The Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Congress are in a coalition government in Bihar and the three parties are in talks to bring other opposition parties together on a common platform in their fight against the BJP.

Kumar arrived here on Tuesday and is expected to meet a slew of opposition leaders during his stay in the national capital.

Tejashwi Yadav is also in Delhi as he appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday for questioning in a money laundering case linked to the alleged landfor-jobs scam.

Kharge has spoken to several opposition leaders including M K Stalin and Uddhav Thackeray recently, in an attempt to forging unity among likeminded parties to take on the BJP. He is likely to hold discussions with other top opposition leaders in the coming days.

Modi surname remark: Patna court summons Rahul Gandhi on April 25

PATNA/ SURAT, APR 12

(PTI): A court in the Bihar capital has asked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to appear before it on April 25 in a defamation suit filed over his purported remark on Modi surname. The defamation case in the MP/MLA court here was lodged by BJP’s Rajya Sabha MP and former deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi.

The MP/MLA court of Special Judicial Magistrate Aadi Dev had passed an order on March 18 asking Gandhi to appear before it on April 12.

NEW DELHI, APR 12

(PTI): The Aam Aadmi Party on Wednesday staged a protest outside the party office here alleging that false cases have been framed against its leader and former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia.

Scores of AAP leaders and workers gathered at DDU Marg and raised slogans against central agencies.

The security outside the AAP office has been beefed up with a large number of police personnel deployed in the area. Barricades have also been put up and water canons kept on standby.

AAP national convener Gopal Rai, AAP MLAs Kuldeep Kumar and Jarnail Singh, among others, participated in the protest.

“Two kinds of struggle are going on - one in the

prison and the other on the streets by us. We stand by Manish Sisodia. All cases against him are fake,” Rai said.

Posters and hoardings reading “We miss you Manish Ji” with a picture of the former deputy chief minister have been put up by the party workers across Rouse Avenue road, ITO and East Delhi.

“These posters have been put up in support of Manish Sisodia. It is to convey that people of Delhi are missing him. We recently had a signature campaign and got 10 lakh letters supporting him and Satyendar Jain. All the cases against both our leaders are a scam. ED could not find anything during the raids, so why is Sisodia in jail?”

AAP leader Adil Ahmad Khan asked.

However, during hearing on Wednesday, the defence counsel sought another date stating that the entire team was busy with the Surat case, in which Gandhi was sentenced to two years in prison and disqualified from the Lok Sabha.

To this, the judge asked Gandhi’s counsel to ensure his physical appearance before the court on the next date of hearing in the case on April 25.

Prosecution lawyer Priya Gupta told reporters that statements from the complainant’s side have been recorded and all evidence submitted to the court and now only the statement of Gandhi is to be recorded.

A Surat court had recently convicted Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi

over the purported remark and he was later disqualified as an MP from Lok Sabha.

Rahul showed arrogance: complainant

Opposing Rahul Gandhi’s plea before a Surat court for a stay to conviction in a criminal defamation case, BJP MLA and complainant Purnesh Modi has said the Congress leader is a “repetitive offender” who is in the habit of making defamatory statements.

The way Gandhi turned up to file his appeal against the magistrate’s order sentencing him to two years in jail showed “extraordinary arrogance” and “a very dirty display of childish arrogance and and an immature act of bringing pressure upon the court,” Modi’s reply said, referring to the Congress’s show of strength outside the court. The sessions court will hear Gandhi’s application on Thursday.

Purnesh Modi -whose complaint about

BJP faces heat in Karnataka after release of first list of candidates

BENGALURU, APR 12

(PTI): Discontent seems to be brewing within the ruling BJP in Karnataka, with the party facing the heat after announcing its first list of candidates for the May 10 Assembly polls, as some ticket aspirants who missed the bus openly expressed displeasure.

With the BJP denying him the ticket from Athani, former Deputy Chief Minister Laxman Savadi on Wednesday announced his decision to resign from the primary membership of the party.

Minister and six-time MLA S Angara from Sullia constituency in Dakshina Kannada district announced his retirement from politics today, after failing to get a ticket again.

Udupi MLA

Raghupati Bhat, who was also overlooked by BJP, said he was deeply pained by the

treatment meted out to him by the party.

BJP MLC R Shankar, who was an aspirant for Ranebennur Assembly seat, resigned as legislator today after the party ignored his request.

After a series of deliberations, the BJP on Tuesday announced its first list of 189 candidates out of the total 224.

Reacting to the developments, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said the party will speak

to all those disgruntled, and will take care of their concerns.

“I have certainly made a decision. I have decided to resign from the primary membership of the party,” Savadi, a BJP MLC, said in a press conference in the district headquarters town of Belagavi.

Amid speculation that he may join the Congress, the 63-year-old three-time MLA said he will make a “strong decision” on Thursday evening and start

working on it from Friday.

Sitting MLA Mahesh Kumathalli, who was backed by BJP leader and former Minister Ramesh Jarkiholi, was given a ticket in Athani in Belagavi district. Kumathalli was among the group of defectors, including Jarkiholi, who helped the BJP to bring down the Congress-JD(S) coalition and form its government under the leadership of B S Yediyurappa in 2019. A visibly aggrieved Angara said that this was not

Gandhi’s `why all thieves have Modi surname’ led to the latter’s conviction -- filed his affidavit-in-reply on Tuesday.

“The accused is in the habit of making such defamatory and irresponsible statements which may either defame others or may hurt the feelings of others, in the name of freedom of speech and political criticism and dissent,” Purnesh Modi stated in his affidavit.

The accused is “a repetitive offender” (sic) and facing charges for his defamatory utterances elsewhere too, and the Supreme Court had warned him after he tendered apology in one case, said Modi, a former minister in the previous Gujarat government.

In his affidavit, Modi cited as many as 11 cases of criminal defamation and one of `promoting enmity between different groups’ (seven of which are currently pending before different courts) that Gandhi is facing or has faced.

Pointing to the show of strength staged by Congress when Gandhi arrived to file his appeal on April 3, Modi said this conduct showed “extraordinary arrogance and a very conscious attempt to overawe and bring pressure on the competent court.”

MUMBAI, APR 12 (PTI): Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday said the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), of which his party is a constituent along with the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress, should work together unitedly even though the allies may have differences of opinion.

Talking to reporters here, Pawar said the issue of unity among the allies was discussed during his meeting with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday.

Pawar said some programmes have been decided for the unity of the alliance.

“Everyone should participate in these programmes. This is the policy we agreed on yesterday,” he said.

The meeting between Pawar and Thackeray took place days after the NCP chief favoured a probe by a Supreme Court panel into allegations against the Adani Group over a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).

The Congress and the Shiv Sena (UBT) have been insisting on a JPC probe.

Pawar had earlier said

Sharad Pawar

although the NCP did not agree with the demand of anti-BJP parties for a JPC probe, it would not go against their stand for the sake of Opposition unity. Pawar had said if a JPC is formed, looking at the BJP’s numerical strength in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, the ruling party will have 14-15 members in the panel, while the Opposition will have five to six MPs.

“The panel will also be headed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). So who will control the panel and what will be its influence on the report?” Pawar had asked, seeking to drive home the point that a parliamentary probe committee will have a limited scope.

Instead, a Supreme Court-appointed panel should probe the issue, the NCP leader had added.

Rahul’s conviction ‘litmus test’ for judiciary: Anand Sharma

NEW DELHI, APR 12

(PTI): Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma on Wednesday said Rahul Gandhi’s conviction and disqualification from Lok Sabha is “deeply flawed” in law and hoped it will be corrected as it will be a “litmus test” for the Indian judiciary.

Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters, the senior party spokesperson said though much has been said about the decision of conviction and disqualification of Rahul Gandhi, it “is deeply flawed in law and in the Constitution”.

“If the same yardstick were to be applied, perhaps the Indian Parliament would have been hollowed out. Most major leaders of political parties would have been out of Parliament for decades. That has not

happened,” he said. “This will be a litmus test for the Indian judiciary too. I have no doubt that what is wrong will be corrected, a flawed decision in law will be reversed and I say that of my understanding in law and Constitution,” Sharma said. Asked about his own occupation of a government accommodation, he said he has not flouted rules and regulations and he is paying the market rent to stay in the residence as per the rules laid down by Parliament. Gandhi was convicted by a Surat court in a defamation case and was given a two-year sentence, following which the former Congress chief was disqualified from Parliament. The Lok Sabha Secretariat has asked Gandhi to vacate his official bungalow at Tughlaq Road by April 22.

Covid in endemic stage in India

NEW DELHI, APR 12 (PTI): Covid in India is moving towards the endemic stage, so the cases may keep rising for the next 10-12 days after which they will subside, official sources said on Wednesday.

The sources said even though the cases are increasing, hospitalisation is low and expected to remain low.

The current rise in Covid cases is being driven by XBB.1.16, which is a sub variant of Omicron, they added. While Omicron and its sub-lineages continue to be the dominant variant, most of the assigned variants have little or no significant transmissibility, disease severity or immune escape.

The prevalence of XBB.1.16 increased from 21.6 per cent in February this year to 35.8 per cent in March.

the way an MLA who toiled for the party with dedication was to be treated. “I am not disgruntled for being denied a ticket by the party. But this is not a way to honour (me) for working for the party and society without any black spot.... There is no value for honesty”.

The 58-year-old said he was retiring from politics and he will not work for the party any more. The BJP has nominated Bhagirathi Murulya as its candidate from Sullia.

“I am not sad over the party’s decision, but I am pained by the way the party has treated me,” Raghupati Bhat said, breaking into tears while speaking to the media. He said not even the district unit president of the party had called to inform him about the party’s decision and he came to know of it from television channels.

Mallikarjun Kharge with Nitish Kumar, Rahul Gandhi, Tejashwi Yadav and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Wednesday. (PTI)

Police stop AAP workers who were staging a protest outside the BJP office in New Delhi, Wednesday. (PTI)

Laxman Savadi Jagadish Shettar Raghupati Bhat

United in disunity

Ayear before the Lok Sabha elections in 2024, there is confusion among the voters on whether they consider any party as a viable opposition to the ruling BJP .A recent survey however found that the Aam Admi Party(AAP) has a slight edge over the Congress, as the main challenger to the BJP. After it was accorded status as a national party by the ECI on April 10,this has strengthened the AAP claim to be the main challenger to the BJP. The ECI also dealt a big blow to Sharad Pawar’s NCP and Mamata Banerjee’s TMC, both of which were downgraded to regional parties from the status of national parties. Presently only six parties are recognised as national parties- the Congress, BJP, CPI(M), Mayawati’s BSP , the National People’s Party (NPP) and the latest entrant, AAP. The ECI announcement also comes against the backdrop of gradual disconnect among various opposition parties from forging a grand alliance for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP, an offshoot of the Anna Hazare-led anti-corruption movement in 2012, currently is in power in two states-Delhi and Punjab. The Congress is in power in three statesRajasthan, Chhatisgarh and Himachal Pradesh. The AAP had burst into the national political prominence on its maiden entry in 2013,when it won 28 seats at the cost of the incumbent Congress but BJP came out as the single largest party with 31 seats. AAP formed the government with the support of 8 Congress MLAs but the first AAP government lasted only 49 days when chief minister Arvind Kejriwal resigned after his anti-corruption move was stalled by both Congress and BJP. In 2015 AAP returned to power despite the onslaught from the BJP,winning 67 seats and the BJP 3 while Congress scored a duck. In 2020 AAP again proved itself against BJP when it retained power winning 62 seats and BJP 8. The AAP also won its second state when it trounced the incumbent Congress by winning 92 seats in the 2022 Punjab assembly election. AAP also won MCD polls in Delhi in December 2022, ending 15 years under BJP. Buoyant by the AAP’s consistency, AAP chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has set his sights for the AAP as the viable alternative to the BJP. Though the AAP is still at its formative stage, yet it has displayed grit and determination which is reflected in its performances in assembly elections in several states. The AAP is the main challenger to the Congress and appears to be emerging as the main rival to the BJP. The AAP had ventured into Gujarat at the cost of the Congress by winning 5 seats to the Congress’ 17. Even for the forthcoming Karnataka assembly election, the AAP has decided to contest all 224 seats for the May 10 polls. This will mean that the opposition parties such as Congress, JDS and AAP will fight each other against the incumbent BJP. The Congress claim as the main challenger to BJP is weakening while the AAP claim is growing. The TMC’s grand design will have to take a back seat including the opposition dream of a national alliance against BJP.

DailyDevotion

Complete and Effective Dominion

Death no longer has dominion over Him.…the life that He lives, He lives to God. Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God… —Romans 6:9-11

Co-Eternal Life. Eternal life is the life which Jesus Christ exhibited on the human level. And it is this same life, not simply a copy of it, which is made evident in our mortal flesh when we are born again. Eternal life is not a gift from God; eternal life is the gift of God. The energy and the power which was so very evident in Jesus will be exhibited in us by an act of the absolute sovereign grace of God, once we have made that complete and effective decision about sin.

“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…” (Acts 1:8)— not power as a gift from the Holy Spirit; the power is the Holy Spirit, not something that He gives us. The life that was in Jesus becomes ours because of His Cross, once we make the decision to be identified with Him. If it is difficult to get right with God, it is because we refuse to make this moral decision about sin. But once we do decide, the full life of God comes in immediately.

Jesus came to give us an endless supply of life— “… that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:19). Eternal life has nothing to do with time. It is the life which Jesus lived when He was down here, and the only Source of life is the Lord Jesus Christ.

Even the weakest saint can experience the power of the deity of the Son of God, when he is willing to “let go.” But any effort to “hang on” to the least bit of our own power will only diminish the life of Jesus in us. We have to keep letting go, and slowly, but surely, the great full life of God will invade us, penetrating every part. Then Jesus will have complete and effective dominion in us, and people will take notice that we have been with Him.

By Oswald Chambers

Quotes

The grass is greener where you water it.

The convulsive journey of the Naga peace process

The Naga insurgency finds it initial roots in issues associated with the identity and ethnicity of Nagas. Over time, the issue began to be perceived as having political overtones and is considered one of the most contested political issues which remain unresolved.

The demand for an independent and sovereign Nagaland began even well before India’s independence during British Rule. In 1947, before independence, a delegation of Naga leaders expressed their refusal to integrate with India upon independence. They also expressed their fear of being occupied by India by military force to Gandhiji. He then made a solemn commitment to stand by the Nagas and famously said,“If Nagas do not wish to join the Union of India, nobody will force them to do that. I will come to the Naga Hills; I will ask them to shoot me first before one Naga is shot.”Conveying this intention to Nehruji, he could not fulfil this solemn commitment to the issue due to his unfortunate assassination. However, this sentiment must continue to define India’s obligation to not only commit to the policy of non-violence but also recognize the distinctive Naga identity and bring about a meaningful solution honouring the uniqueness of Naga history.

Subsequent to India’s independence, the Naga Plebiscite in 1951 marked the foundation for the Naga insurgency movement and proved to be a testimony of the unity of the Nagas. The Plebiscite revealed that 99.9% of the Naga population was in favour of a free and sovereign Nagaland. This resulted in several demands for a political entity for the Naga-populated areas, a few of which turned

A pursuit towards mutual coexistence and autonomy

violent. In retaliation, the military was sent to combat violence, and the draconian Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1958 was implemented.

The year 1963 marked the formation of the state of Nagaland, distinct from Assam. This was a result of constant pressure on the Government of India to separate the fundamentally different Naga tribes from Assam and recognize their distinct culture, religion, and ethics. Further, Nehru ji was also of the opinion that providing Nagas a distinct status with certain autonomy would conciliate the Nagas. Subsequently, the 13th Constitutional Amendment Act added Article 371A, marking a constitutional recognition of the uniqueness of Nagaland and consequently added special protections of customary laws and religious beliefs of the Nagas. The following years marked further negotiations between the GoI and underground organizations in Nagaland amidst violent acts of succession and retaliation. In 1975, the Shillong Accord, signed by the Naga National Council and GoI, where the Nagas agreed to voluntarily and unconditionally accept the Constitution of India, and give up arms and “formulate other issues for discussion for final settlement.”

However, this agreement was internally criticized by the Nagas and soon became irrelevant in the negotiations. Internal disagreement marked the formation of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah).

Consequently, the landmark Ceasefire Agreement was signed in 1997 by NSCN(IM) and GoI, resulting in a paradigm shift in the nature of the movement. A mutual agreement by both parties to relinquish violence and adopt a process of dip-

lomatic negotiation instead was reached. The adoption of the Gandhian ideal of non-violence and commitment to peaceful cooperation has enabled the possibility of mutual dialogue over the issue and resulted in the 2015 Framework Agreement being formed.

The core demands of the Nagas are: (1) a Greater ‘Nagalim,’ consisting of all Naga-inhabited areas spread across Manipur hills, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and adjoining districts of Myanmar, (2) a separate flag and Constitution. Both demands have attracted severe discussions over the years and remain contentious. The demand for a Greater ‘Nagalim’ has larger national and international implications as it necessitates the redrawing of borders not just internally (with Manipur, Assam etc.) but also with Myanmar. This makes it difficult for the GoI to accede to the demand even if sincere intentions to negotiate are assumed. Further, there has been a revolt by the governments and civil society organizations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Manipur as integration for Nagalim compromises their territorial integrity. Therefore, considering the cultural and territorial heterogeneity of Naga communities/tribes, a Greater Nagalim would not be a possible solution towards long-lasting peace and socio-political harmony. Rather, efforts can be made to significantly increase the autonomy of the Nagadominated regions across all states and establish a community-driven cultural and constitutional body to look into issues related to Nagas in the whole territorial region. However, this is not to say that the demand for sovereignty and autonomy for Nagaland is to

be foregone.

The demand for a separate Naga Yezabo (Constitution) and Naga national flag has been non-negotiable for the NSCN(IM) since the beginning. The GoI, having recognized the cultural distinctiveness and historicalpolitical rights of Nagas to self-determine their future in consonance with this distinct identity, has refused to accept the demand for a separate constitution and flag. The situation has further intensified after the abrogation of Article 370, providing special status to Jammu & Kashmir. This has not only put Article 371A (the only marker of the distinctiveness of Nagas in the Indian Constitution) in a predicament but also significantly reduced the possibility of the demand for a separate Constitution to be accepted. The GoI has agreed to incorporate the Naga Constitution into the Indian constitution and allowed a separate flag for Nagas for civil and cultural usage only. The NSCN(IM) was not receptive to this and was adamant on demand for a separate constitution and flag (for political, cultural, and other purposes) while agreeing to co-exist as a part of Union of India.

Essentially, three issues can be delineated. First, negotiations by the GoI with parallel civil society organizations among the Nagas have resulted in inconclusiveness of negotiations and have raised concerns over the long-term viability of the process. The demand for a separate flag and constitution was integral to the 2015 Framework Agreement between the GoI and NSCN(IM); however, the 2017 Agreement position signed by the GoI and Naga National Political Groups (7 Naga rebel organizations) left this demand out because

NMA writes to Governor regarding letters from APO and CPO to CS K

To The Hon’ble Governor, Raj Bhavan, Nagaland, Kohima.

Subject: REGARDING ANGAMI

PUBLIC ORGANISATION LETTER

DATED 6.4.2023 & CHAKHESANG

PUBLIC ORGANISATION LETTER NO. CPO/MISC/07/23, DATED

7.4.2023

Respected Sir, The Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) held the Executive Council meeting at NMA Cradle Ridge on the 11th April 2023 and resolved amongst others, to clarify on the allegations in the above two letters submitted by the Angami Public Organisation (APO) and the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) addressed to the Chief Secretary, Nagaland respectively.

1. That Sir, the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) is a bonafide women organisation founded in 1984 and exists till date working for peace, women’s issues and various other social issues. The NMA started with individual membership and later expanded to include tribe women representatives into the organisation. Till date, NMA membership is open to individual women and tribe women organisations.

2. When the State government passed the Nagaland Municipal First Amendment Act 2006, Naga women came together to ensure the inclusion of women by forming the Joint Action Committee on Women Reservation (JACWR) which included the Eastern Naga Women Organisation (ENWO), Watsü Mungdang, Naga Women Hoho Dimapur (NWHD), Tenyimi Women Organisation (TWO) and tribe units of Naga Mothers’ Association.

3. On 31st May 2011, the JACWR submitted a memorandum and met the then Chief Minister Mr. Neiphi-u Rio seeking that the government implement the Municipal Act and hold the election with 33% Women Reservation. At the meeting, the Hon’ble Chief Minister advised the Naga women delegation to go to the court, and if they brought an order he would be able to implement it as the tribe Hohos were against holding the Municipal elections.

4. On 26th January 2017, the JACWR, in its meeting with the then Hon’ble Chief Minister, Mr. T.R. Zeliang, agreed to withdraw as petitioners

provided the government give a written assurance that election will be held as scheduled. Accordingly, on receiving the written assurance, the two NMA petitioners from the JACWR withdrew from the case in Delhi on 29th January 2017.

5. The NMA has no connection with the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) which is India’s largest Human Rights Organisation and who are the petitioners after the withdrawal of the NMA.

6. That Sir, during the riots of February 2017 our tribe units of Angami Women Organisation (AWO), Chakhesang Mothers Association (CMA), Sumi Totimi Hoho (STH), and Lotha Eloi Hoho (LEH) were forced to disassociate from NMA. However, the NMA continues till date with the tribe units of Rengma Mothers Association (RMA), Pochury Mothers Association (PMA), Kuki Nute Kiloikhom Nagaland (KNKN) and Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation (ZMO) along with individuals from various tribes.

7. That Sir, the NMA has no written record of tinkering and experimenting with the customary laws and traditions of our people. As women and mothers, we have great respect for the rich culture and traditions of Nagas and welcome any public policy that empowers women and protect women’s rights which are for the good of everyone in the Naga society.

8. That Sir, as women of the state of Nagaland, women organisations, including the Naga Mothers’ Association, has the freedom to deliberate and organise meetings and seminars on public policies that affects us all.

The records and activities of the Naga Mothers’ Association, since its inception till date, will stand testimony to the fact that we have contributed much to bring in peace, social order and promoting women’s rights as Human Rights. We hope this representation will clarify the baseless aspersions cast on the existence of the NMA and deter any more defamatory exchanges to the state government.

Yours sincerely, Abei-Ü Meru President, Naga Mothers’ Association. Lochumbeni Humtsoe General Secretary Naga Mothers’ Association.

the NNPGs were agreeable to a solution without a separate flag and constitution. Internal differences within Nagas and the shift in position by GoI is threatening the entire process of negotiations, as acquiescence on the part of other groups is unlikely, which invokes the possibility of retaliation against such decisions. It is not in the interest of longterm peace and harmony for Nagas. Therefore,parallel Naga groups must internally cooperate to ensure that incompatible demands are not presented. The GoI must refrain from retracting from agreements in the past through surpassing negotiations with certain groups and favouring demands that align with their interests.

Second, the inconclusiveness of the demands for a separate flag and constitution for the Nagas has only delayed the negotiation and implementation of Agreements during the peace talks. The Nagas have been resilient during the negotiations post-Ceasefire agreement and have upheld their oath to non-violence. They have also been accommodative of their demands and have foregone their demand for complete independence (1951 Plebiscite) and are willing to co-exist with India provided they have complete sovereignty and autonomy.

As Gandhiji said,’All compromise is based on give and take, but there can be no give and take on fundamentals. Any compromise on mere fundamentals is a surrender. For it is all give and no take.’ Expecting Nagas to diverge any further from their demands would be an attack on their identity and historical-political rights. It is, therefore, imperative that the GoI concede to their demand for a separate flag and Constitution which recognizes them as a sovereign

region within the Union of India that mutually co-exists with the rest of the country.This is in line with the Gandhian ideal of dialogue and mutual compromise. Most importantly, it is imperative that all entities involved in the negotiations commit to the ideal of nonviolence and reject any form of violence or coercion in the negotiations or otherwise. Achieving this requires a mutual effort on the part of all entities and should be unconditional to the success of the peace efforts. The GoI must strictly prevent any incidents like the killing of 14 Naga civilians by Indian security forces in the Mon district, Nagaland, in December 2021 under the draconian Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958. This marks a violation of the commitment made under the 1997 Ceasefire Agreement and dampens the trust in the authorities. The Nagas, who have largely upheld their commitment to non-violence, must not be deceived and their resilience mocked. While the lifting of the AFSPA by GoI in parts of Nagaland is a welcomed move, the draconian law needs to be entirely eradicated from the remaining regions. The Nagas should continue their commitment to non-violence and should persuade the negotiations through peaceful resistance like institutional backlash, non-cooperation, the boycott of elections, etc.

The Naga peace issue is a complex one that embodies political, cultural, and historical elements. An overall perusal of all factors and groups is peremptory for achieving an effective solution and securing the ultimate goal of enduring peace.

Reet Balmiki, NALSAR, Hyderabad.

Poultry farming with Kadaknath

adaknath, also popularly called as Kali Masi “fowl having black flesh” is an Indian breed which originated from Dhar and Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh. The black coloured meat is due to presence of melanin. These birds are mostly bred by the rural people and tribal’s. It plays an important role in providing nutrition and a source of income generations throughout the year. In Nagaland, where almost 99% of the population are non vegetarians and meat lovers, introduction of such breeds of poultry will help the farmers and youth to take up poultry farming for profitable business as the cost of Kadaknath meat varies around Rs. 600-700/kg meat. The eggs obtained are also highly priced in the market.

Breed: There are three varieties: jet black, golden and pencilled. These birds are very popular for its adaptability and its grey-black meat, which is believed to infuse vigour.

Colour: Kadaknath birds are generally grey-black all over and have gold plumage. The greyish black colour is present in the legs and toenails, beak, tongue, comb and wattles; even the meat, bones and organs have grey colouration.

Performance of breed: The roosters weigh 1.8–2 kg and the hens 1.2–1.5 kg. Eggs weigh an average of 40–45 gm. It gains a body weight of 1.20 kg in four months and 1.75 kg in seven months. It starts laying eggs in six months and lays around 120-140 eggs in a year. These birds are not good setters and rarely hatch their own brood. Incubators are generally used for Hatching.

Meat quality: The meat of Kadaknath is of superior quality with other breed of chicken.

Sl.No Particulars Kadaknath Other breeds

1. Protein % 25 18-20

2. Fat % 0.73-1.03 13-25

3. Linoleic acid % 24 21

4. Cholesterol (mg/100gm) 184 218

Price of meat and eggs: The meat of Kadaknath birds is sold nearly at the rate of Rs.600.00/kilo in markets and the eggs are sold at the rate of 15-20 per eggs. Brooding and Rearing: Proper brooding should be done for 3-4 weeks of age to reduce early mortality. Thereafter, the birds can be reared in either intensive or backyard condition. Proper feeding and ample water should be provided.

Disease: These birds are hardy and resistant to disease, however proper care should be taken and preventive measures should be adopted. Vaccination similar to poultry birds is recommended.

Why to go for Kadaknath birds?

It is one of the rarest birds which are quite adaptable and resistant to disease, can be easily reared in backyard with minimal feeds. The meat is having good texture and flavour, possess good medicinal purpose , contains many amino acids and vitamins such as B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E , Niacin, etc., which helps in increasing blood cells and Haemoglobin considered good for women health and old people. Moreover, its meat is being preferred for more protein, less fat, low cholesterol when compared to other poultry birds.

Compiled By:

Dr. Rakesh Kumar Chaurasia, Principal Scientist and Head KVK, Zunheboto, Nagaland University

Sir, Little Star Hr. Secondary School would like to thank the Police Department and especially the Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Sir Kevithuto Sophie, for taking proactive action to fill up the pot holes in Midland area which has become very problematic for all commuters and especially for students. Not only the school and the students but the inhabitants of Midland are very grateful for this much needed relief that has been given to us. We would also like to take this opportunity to request the concerned Department to please take up the road repairs between Dhobhinala and Midland on priority basis. Mrs. Nini Sekhose, Chairman, Little Star Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur.

SNIPPETS

8 shops gutted in fire in UP

GORAKHPUR (UP), APR 12 (PTI): Eight shops were gutted in a fire likely triggered by an electrical short circuit in a transformer at a furniture market in the Town Hall area of Gorakhpur, police said Wednesday. The fire started around 10 pm Tuesday night on Bank Road but was controlled within 45 minutes, they said. No person was injured in the incident. Some people saw a spark in the transformer near a tea shop after which the shop caught fire. People soon rushed out of the shop as the flames spread to the furniture shops nearby. Fire department personnel soon reached the spot and controlled the fire. “It is said the fire broke out due to a short circuit in the transformer. The fire was contained within the furniture market... Eight shops were gutted and goods worth lakhs of rupees were damaged.

Elephant kills man in WB

JHARGRAM (WB), APR 12 (PTI): A 22-yearold man was trampled to death by a wild elephant in West Bengal’s Jhargram district on Wednesday, police said. The incident took place when villagers were attempting to chase a herd of wild elephants that had entered Balibhasa area in the morning, a police officer said. Suddenly, one of the elephants broke out of the herd and attacked Sanjeeb Mahato, a second year college student, from behind and trampled him to death, he said.

Villagers took him to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead, the officer added. The forest department has assured his next of kin that a compensation will be provided.

BSF recovers 10 charas packets off Guj coast

BHUJ, APR 12 (PTI): A patrolling team of the Border Security Force (BSF) has recovered 10 packets of charas from the Luna Bet island off Jakhau coast in Gujarat’s Kutch district, an official said on Wednesday. The island is about five km away from the Jakhau port of Kutch. According to the BSF, the seized charas packets, with ‘Afghan Product’ printed on them, were likely washed ashore from the Pakistan side and reached the Indian coast. Since May 2020, as many as 1,548 unclaimed packets of charas have been recovered by the BSF as well as other law enforcement agencies, including Customs and the Indian Coast Guard, off the Jakhau coast and the adjoining creek area, the BSF said in a release.

3 killed after tractortrailer overturns

HOSHIARPUR (PB), APR 12 (PTI): A tractortrailer overturned near village Garhi Manoswal in the district, leaving three people dead and 10 others injured on Wednesday, police said. The incident took place when they were going to Sri Khuralgarh Sahib in Garhshankar sub division for arranging ‘langar’ on the occasion of Baisakhi. When they reached near village Garhi Mansowal, the driver of the tractor-trailer failed to control the vehicle and it overturned. The deceased were identified as Jaswinder Singh (28), Davinder Singh (13), and Darshan Singh (60), all of village Bodal Samrala. Their bodies were sent to civil hospital in Garhshankar for postmortem. The injured were admitted to the civil hospital.

PM flags off new Vande Bharat train in Rajasthan

JAIPUR, APR 12 (PTI):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said railways had become an arena of politics under previous governments and its modernisation affected by political considerations.

“It is our country’s misfortune that an important system like the railways, which is such a big part in the lives of common people, was also made an arena of politics,” he said after launching Rajasthan’s first Vande Bharat Express here via video conferencing.

The new Vande Bharat train, the 15th in the country, will operate between Ajmer and Delhi Cantonment stations with stops in Jaipur, Alwar and Gurugram. It will cover the distance in five hours and 15 minutes.

The prime minister thanked Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for attending the event despite going through a “political tussle” in the state Congress.

“After independence, India had got a large railway network but political interests always dominated the modernisation of railways,” Modi said, adding the decision on who would become the railway minister and which train would run

Narendra Modi (PTI)

at a certain station used to be taken based on political interest.

He also alleged that due to political pressure, several trains announced in budgets never actually ran.

“There was politics in railway recruitment, corruption was rampant. The situation was such that lands of poor people were snatched away and they were given a bluff in the name of job in the railways,” Modi said.

“But things changed after the country got a stable government in 2014,” he said. The pressure of political bargaining on the government was removed after 2014, the railways heaved a sigh of relief and achieved new heights, the prime minister said.

Later on Twitter, Gehlot challenged the prime

minister’s claim. He said it was “unfortunate” that the PM had talked about the decisions taken by earlier railway ministers as being influenced by corruption and political considerations.

Gehlot accused the PM of reducing the importance of railways during his own term by ending the practice of a separate railway budget.

The launch event was organised at the Jaipur junction railway station. It was attended by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Jaipur MP Ramcharan Bohra among others.

Modi said his government today was fulfilling demands which were more than 100 years old.

He said thousands of level crossings in the country were left unmanned and railway safety, cleanliness of platforms and everything else were ignored.

“Changes in all these circumstances have started coming after 2014 when the people of the country formed a stable government with full majority,” Modi said.

“Today, every Indian

Four Army jawans killed in firing at Bathinda military station

BATHINDA/NEW

DELHI, APR 12 (PTI):

Four Army personnel of an artillery unit were killed in a firing incident at the Bathinda military station in Punjab early Wednesday, with the state police terming it as a case of “fratricide”.

The Army said the incident took place at around 4:30 am and that it deployed quick reaction teams and cordoned off the area.

“It has been ascertained that in the unfortunate incident, four army jawans of an artillery unit succumbed to gunshot injuries sustained during the incident. No other injuries to personnel or loss/ damage to property have been reported,” the Army’s South Western command said in a statement.

It further said all aspects, including the possible case of involvement

PM’s comments at Vande Bharat launch aimed at polls: Gehlot

is proud of the rejuvenation of the Indian Railways,” he added.

Talking about the Vande Bharat Express, the prime minister said it would benefit the tourism industry of Rajasthan. It will save time and make it easier for devotees going to Pushkar and Ajmer Sharif, he added.

He said the biggest feature of the Vande Bharat Express is its high speed which saves time.

Modi stated that as per a study, 2,500 hours are saved in each trip of the train and passengers are getting this extra time for other work.

The prime minister said the Vande Bharat trains have become the symbol of modernisation and selfreliance.

He said the central government is focused on improving railway connectivity as well as road infrastructure. The budget for railways used to be around Rs 700 crore before 2014 but now, it is Rs 9,500 crore, he added.

Seventy-five per cent of electrification work has been completed in nine years in Rajasthan, work on 1,400 km roads in border areas are going on and

railway stations are being rejuvenated, Modi said.

Modi called Gehlot a “friend” and thanked him for attending the launch event even when he is going through a “political tussle” in the state.

“I express my special gratitude to Gehlot ji. During these days of political struggle when he is going through several crises, he took out the time for development work and participated in a railway programme. I welcome him,” Modi said.

Addressing the programme, Gehlot said several projects were pending with the Railway Ministry, and requested the prime minister to expedite them.

He said this was the first time that the railway minister of the country was from Rajasthan, and hoped that he would discuss the pending projects with the PM.

Gehlot further said Banswara, Karauli and Tonk have no railway connectivity despite having district headquarters.

BJP state president C P Joshi said the Vande Bharat Express was a big gift for the people of Rajasthan.

Ashok Gehlot

JAIPUR, APR 12 (PTI):

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot termed “unfortunate” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remark that railways had become an arena of politics under previous governments, saying his comments on Wednesday were made with an eye on the coming assembly and general elections.

Gehlot said it was not fair to say the development of the national transporter happened only after 2014.

“Today, your speech was given completely keeping in view the 2023-24 assembly and Lok Sabha elections and it was in the form of the election agenda of the Bharatiya Janata Party. I believe that such comments will not be acceptable to the people of the state and the country,” the Rajasthan chief minister said.

He said in a statement it was “unfortunate” that the prime minister talked about the decisions taken during the tenure of earlier railway ministers as being influenced by corruption and political considerations. Launching the first Vande Bharat train of Rajasthan earlier Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi said the railways had become an arena of politics under previous governments and political considerations affected its modernisation.

“It is our country’s misfortune that an important system like the railways, which is such a big part in the lives of common people, was turned into an arena of politics,” he said, adding “things changed” after the country got a stable government in 2014.

PM Modi launched the Vande Bharat Express train, which will connect Ajmer with Delhi Cantonment, via video conferencing during a programme organised at the Jaipur railway station. Besides Chief Minister Gehlot, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the programme.

At the event, before the prime minister spoke, Gehlot said the train was a

Rajnath bats for robust defence finance system

NEW DELHI, APR 12 (PTI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday batted for a foolproof system of internal and external audit for defence expenditure and called for devising innovative ways to maximise the value of money spent on India’s security needs.

highlighted the need for comprehensive ‘Blue Books’, codifying the rules and procedures for procurement of military equipment and systems.

Soldiers, who returned after leave, wait outside the Bathinda military station after a firing incident took place. (PTI)

of an INSAS rifle along with 28 rounds reported missing two days back, are being ascertained.

It is learnt that Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande briefed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the matter.

Punjab’s Additional Director General of Police, SPS Parmar told PTI over phone, “It is not a terrorist attack, it is not an attack from outside. It is a fratricidal incident”.

“We are in touch with

the Army authorities,” he said.

Speaking to reporters, Bathinda Police Station Cantt, Station House Officer, Gurdeep Singh said nobody has been detained in connection with the incident so far.

Asked as to who fired the gunshots, he said they have no information in this regard. When asked if an FIR has been lodged, the SHO said, “We will lodge the FIR.”

In an address at a conference, Singh called for judicious use of financial resources and said that the rule of competitive bidding through open tender must be followed in defence procurement.

Reducing chances of corruption and wastage leads to positive public opinion due to the confidence that public money is being spent optimally and prudently and this increases the possibility of greater funding by the legislature, the defence minister said. He underlined the importance of a robust defence finance system for a strong military and

Singh said, with this vision, the government has formulated ‘Blue Books’ in the form of Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 for capital acquisition and Defence Procurement Manual for revenue procurement besides delegating financial powers to the services.

“These manuals play a very important role in ensuring that the process of defence procurement is rule-bound and follows the principles of financial propriety,” he said after inaugurating the threeday conference on defence finance and economics.

The defence minister said since these manuals are critical, they need to be carefully crafted by defence finance and procurement experts in consultation with all the stakeholders.

29 of current 30 CMs are crorepatis: ADR analysis

NEW DELHI, APR 12

(PTI): Twenty-nine of the 30 incumbent chief ministers are crorepatis with Andhra Pradesh’s Jagan Mohan Reddy having the highest assets totalling Rs 510 crore, according to poll affidavits analysed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

West Bengal Chief

Minister Mamata Banerjee has the lowest total assets of about Rs 15 lakh, the ADR said.

The ADR and Election Watch (NEW) said they have arrived at this conclusion after analysing the self-sworn poll affidavits of all the 30 current chief ministers of states and union territories.

There are 28 state chief ministers and two union territories -- Delhi and Puducherry -- also have chief ministers. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir does not have a chief minister currently.

Out of the 30 CMs analysed, 29 (97 per cent) are crorepatis with the average assets being Rs

33.96 crore for every CM, the ADR said.

According to the ADR report, out of the 30 CMs, 13 (43 per cent) have declared serious criminal cases including those related to

murder, attempt to murder, kidnapping and criminal intimidation. Serious criminal cases are nonbailable offences with over five years of imprisonment, the report said.

Walk in intervieW (eHSS, DiMaPUr)

FoR tHe PoSt oF 1 (oNe) eCoNoMiCS (HigHeR SeCoNdARy) teACHeR

Qualification : M.A (Economics, Minimum 2nd Div.) with B.Ed.

Starting Salary : ` 10,000/-

Date of Interview : 14th April 2023

Time : 2:00 P.M.

Place/Venue : Lotha Baptist Church Office near City Tower, Dimapur : Nagaland

Interested candidates are to bring their original documents on the date of interview.

Contact No. : 9402830642

DP-1574/23

Sd/Principal e .H.S.S, dimapur

SHEPHERD H R. SEC. SCHOOL

Dubagaon : Dimapur

ADMI SS ION O PEN For Class – 11 (ARTS)

S A LIEN T FE AT URE S:

• Experienced & Qualified Teachers

• Excellent HSLC result

• Hostel attached (Optional)

• Transportation available Contact : 7005023520

DP -1568/23

This needs to be a continuous exercise so that these documents are dynamically updated, incorporating new rules and procedures as and when required, he said.

Singh batted for a foolproof system of internal and external audit which would tackle the instances of wastages, pilferage and corruption, if any, while following the principles of financial prudence and propriety.

The role of auditors is that of a watchdog or a sentinel, he said.

Singh asserted that a legal and procedural defence-finance framework

is an integral part of a mature state system for ensuring prudent management of defence expenditure. The defence minister was of the view that it is difficult to apply the economic concept of the full value of money in defence expenditure as there is no visible revenue stream in the sector and no easily identifiable beneficiaries. To maximise the value of money spent, he stressed that the rule of competitive bidding through open tender must be followed in defence procurement.

“In the case of procurement of defence platforms and equipment, either under capital or revenue route, the gold standard of open tender should be adopted to the extent possible,” he said.

“A competitive bid based procurement process, which is open to all, is the best possible way to realise the full value of the public money being spent,” Singh said.

DP-1580/23

ASSAM RIFLES PUBLIC SCHOOL (HIGH), MEDZIPHEMA (A CBSE AFFILIATED SCHOOL)

VACANCY FOR ADHOC TEACHERS AT ARPS (HIGH), MEDZIPHEMA

1. A written test and interview will be conducted on 20 Apr 2023 at ARPS (High), Medziphema (7 Assam Rifles) to fill up the following vacancies :Post Qualifications

PRT (a) Graduate (preferably in Hindi/Sanskrit).

(b) Diploma in Elementary Education (DElEd) from any recognized University.

TGT (Social Science) (a) Graduate in Social Science.

(b) B.Ed from any recognized University.

2. Candidates who are willing to work in Assam Rifles Public School (High), Medziphema only to apply. Application with mobile number of the candidates and copy of Aadhar card must be submitted at the email address arsmedziphema@gmail.com on or before 18 Apr 2023. Address of School for official correspondence is as under :-

Officer In Charge Assam Rifles Public School (High), Medziphema

c/o 7 ASSAM RIFLES Post Office - Medziphema

Dist - Dimapur (Nagaland)

PIN - 797106

3. For any queries, please contact 8787705902 (Principal) or email at arsmedziphema@gmail.com

4. All expenses of move to/from the venue to test and interview will be borne by the candidates. No TA/DA will be provided for appearing in the test/interview.

Note Candidates are required to show PAN Card/UID or any other valid Identity proof for entry in the Garrison. Management Committee ARPS (High), Medziphema

PM MODI REFERS TO RAJASTHAN CONG CRISIS, THANKS ‘FRIEND’ GEHLOT FOR STILL ATTENDING TRAIN LAUNCH

Rajnath Singh (PTI)

India has investment opportunities: Sitharaman

She highlighted that India is adapting at twice the rate at which technology and digitisation tools are being adopted by people around the world, effectively making their life far more easier.

Rupee gains 3 paise to close at 82.09 against USD

NEW DELHI, APR 12

(PTI): The rupee consolidated in a narrow range and settled for the day 3 paise higher at 82.09 (provisional) against the US dollar on Wednesday, as participants remained on the sidelines ahead of the release of the retail inflation data.

Increasing demand for dialysis at DHD

(From p-1) Further, Kikheto instructed scaling up Janaushadhi pharmacy and urged all doctors of district hospital to prescribe medicines available at Janaushadhi pharmacy so quality

health care was accessible to the poor. While visiting the construction of CMO’s new office building, C&S urged the contractor to complete the building by this financial year. He appreciated the health work-

ers of Dimapur District for tirelessly providing health care services to the public in spite of constraints. Kikheto was accompanied by principal director H&FW, Dr. Vibeituonuo and senior officers.

Senden reaffirms solidarity with tribe hohos on ULB polls

NEW

DELHI,

APR 12

(IANS): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reiterated that the India is committed to pursuing the reform agenda for building a stronger and more dynamic country, to provide plenty of opportunities for collaboration and investments.

Participating in a roundtable meeting on “Investing in the India Decade”

(From p-1)

3 expelled for antigovt activities: The Yung Aung-led NSCN (K) on Wednesday expelled three leaders for their alleged antigovernment activities.

In a statement, MIP said that the decision to expel home kilonser Nyeiton, Naga Army GSO-I Langnyei and Konyak region chairman Khampei Opeiham was taken at an emergency meeting held on Wednesday. The expelled persons have also been directed to immediately submit all government properties currently in their disposal. MIP lamented that these members, at this crucial juncture of Naga struggle, had failed to stand by the revolutionary ethics and principles of NSCN/ GPRN. As leaders with prominent positions within the government, it said their personal contribution and dedication towards the national cause remained doubtful and unsatisfactory. Their

organised by industry body FICCI and US India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington D.C. on the sidelines of Spring meetings of the IMF and World Bank, Sitharaman on Tuesday underlined the reality of a global acknowledgement of a “New India” and the renewed role India is poised to play in global economic order, besides India as an investment destination.

The Finance Minister also informed the roundtable participants that local languages are onboarded in the digitisation drive, as most of the Constitutional languages now have access to India’s digital public infrastructure platform, increasing reach, creating impact and exploring potential. Sitharaman further emphasised that despite the reality of reset across the globe and the challenges posed by Coronavirus pandemic, Indiaas reform momentum remains unabated.

She also elaborated on a host of structural and governance reforms that the Centre has laid down through the Union Budget 2023-24.

At the interbank foreign exchange market, the local unit opened at 82.08 against the US currency and finally closed at 82.09 (provisional) against the greenback, registering a gain of 3 paise over its previous close. During the session, the rupee touched a high of 82.01 and a low of 82.11 against the dollar.

On Tuesday, the rupee closed at 82.12 against the US currency. The dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, fell 0.15 per cent to 102.04. Global oil benchmark Brent crude futures advanced 0.32 per cent to USD 85.88 per barrel.

NSCN (YA) refutes allegations

indifferent attitude towards the new transformation policies and their continuous attempt to propagate against the party leadership was not at all encouraging. They had made their final choice to deliberately challenge the authority of NSCN/ GPRN by organising illegal meetings at GHQ area and spreading wild propaganda, creating confusion and mistrust among the national workers, MIP said.

MIP said the allegations against president Yung Aung was totally baseless and outrightly rejected by all members, including Naga Army commander-in-chief Kumchok and deputy commander-in-chief Thumching, who were also present at the emergency meeting.

MIP alleged that Nyeiton and Langnyei, despite their long national career, had fallen into the deceptive trap of Indian intelligence and some proIndia Naga civil society

groups that utilised them to fulfil anti-Naga agendas. Fully aware of their weaknesses, ignorance and lack of political wisdom, the group claimed that its president went beyond his personal conscience to often encourage and correct them with the hope to mend their corruptive nature, ill habits and adapt themselves with new changes within the party. Instead of reforming themselves, MIP accused the expelled members of shifting the blame on to the president with hostile allegations. Due to their weakness for quick money, they had become an easy target for predators like Khampei who played an active role in this conspiracy, MIP stated.

It claimed of having long been deeply suspicious of the manner how Khampei performed his duties and had been reprimanded many times to mend his irresponsible activities, though he continued to defy warnings.

MIP claimed that it was aware of their involvement in the “multi-crore Nagaland election scheme” that was against its principles.

MIP said it was also aware that huge sums of money were allegedly given to them by the Indian intelligence recently and the trio had acted erratically and began randomly bribing national workers to support their hidden conspiracy.

It said that the current development at GHQ was long pre-planned that was waiting to be exposed and was the result of India’s never-ending brutal policies to divide Nagas and annihilate their struggle for independence. Since the beginning of the Naga freedom struggle, corruption and greed for power on the part of few tainted national workers had often defiled the revered people’s struggle, it added. NSCN declared that it would not tolerate national workers with incompatible

(From p-1) The duo reaffirmed that along with rest of the Naga tribal hohos, the Ao Senden, as the apex body of Ao Nagas, had placed on record its appreciation to the State government for doing the right thing at the right time, by heeding to the voice of the people in repealing the Act in toto. The Senden leaders also pointed out

that there was an apprehension that if the State government had conducted the ULB elections as scheduled, another volatile situation like that of 2017 would have occurred. The however noted that timely action of the State government had brought relief to the people and safeguarded the rights enshrined in Article 371 (A) of the Indian constitution.

Dimapur traffic 2-day trial run for bridge repair works

(From p-1)

g. Two-Way traffic will be allowed between Railway Station road junction towards Durga Mandir - GS Road - Army Supply junction (Jakhalu Complex). h. Other routes may be diverted or declared as One-Way-Parking Zone as per the Traffic convenience

traits to continue leading the Naga struggle. Though it was a matter of discomfort and shame for the struggle, MIP, however, pointed out that it was a huge relief for all genuine and dedicated Naga national workers that such members with doubtful characters who did not fit with the new transformation policy had been cleansed.

Further, the group claimed that the council of kilonsers, CCMs, regional authorities and Naga Army units led by commander-inchief and deputy commander-in-chief at the meeting declared their loyalty to Yung Aung and defend the Naga national struggle at all cost.

Urging all Nagas to be aware of the reality behind the conspiracy, the group also declared that it would not hesitate to take step against any national worker remote-controlled by antipeople elements in the days to come in the interest of the Naga struggle.

and feasibility.

7. Time of commencement of trial run: 4am on April 14, 2023 and time of conclusion of trial run 10pm April 15, 2023.

Police have requested all citizens of Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland and visitors from other districts to cooperate with the

HDFC Bank inks

‘Master Inter Bank Credit Agreement’

AHMEDABAD, APR 12

(PTI): HDFC Bank on Wednesday announced that it has signed a “Master Inter Bank Credit Agreement” with Export Import Bank of Korea for a USD 300 million line of credit.

The pact was signed by the two entities at GIFT City in Gujarat’s capital Gandhinagar on Wednesday, said a release by the HDFC Bank.

This agreement will help HDFC Bank raise foreign currency funds which it would extend to Korearelated businesses, said the release.

authorities conducting the exercise and bear with the inconveniences during this trial run.

Police further appealed to the general public to strictly adhere to all traffic rules and regulations and to responsibly drive and park their vehicles so as to ensure the smooth flow of traffic.

“This line of credit would be utilised by HDFC Bank towards funding requirements of companies having equity participation by Korean companies as well as companies having business relationship with Korean companies,” it said. It will also be utilised towards funding requirements of consumers for the purchase of cars manufactured by Korea related companies, said the release.

Imposition of land tax needed for state’s revenue & progress: Mannen

(From p-1) He said “for Naga people, we can make changes. We can impose taxes” (citing clause 5, where NNC will be responsible) for collection of land revenue.

Mannen said people should realize that revenue collection was essential for growth of the state.

He also urged upon the department to discuss about revenue collection and streamline it so that resources flow for progress of Naga society.

Mannen also stressed on the importance of devising a legally provided system for collecting revenue. He disclosed that the state government was drafting a Nagaland Land Law but that the draft needed to be made on the basis of the Naga customary law before making it into an Act. He said that the state government was in talks to reconstitute the committee

to re-examine the draft.

Mannen also briefly spoke on the implementation of amended Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act (SARFAESI Act) which allowed lands to be mortgaged for Nagas to take loans.

He explained that Nagas could mortgage their land to take loans, adding that the banks could legally sell off the land to another Naga if the loaned amount was not paid.

Meanwhile, PowerPoint presentations were given by revenue officers of DC office Dimapur and DC office Kohima, SDO (C), Chümoukedima, DILRMP- Zymax/CSS- Geo Spatial Co, Kolkata, and joint director, land revenue and survey department, Merenkaba Pongen.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by additional secretary land revenue, Ro bert Longchari,

welcome address was delivered by commissioner & secretary land revenue, food & civil supply, and P&AR, Chubasangla Anar.

Short message was also delivered by DC Dimapur, Sachin Jaiswal, and director land records & survey, EN Kithan, while vote of thanks was proposed by additional director, L Khuming.

Nirmala Sitharaman

SNIPPETS

Four Indian nationals killed in Nepal car accident

KATHMANDU, APR 12

(PTI): Four Indian nationals were killed and another person was seriously injured when their car plunged into a ravine in a remote region in Nepal’s Bagmati province, police said on Wednesday. The accident occurred late Tuesday when the car with the five Indian nationals lost control and plunged some 500 metres off the road in Sindhuli district’s Kamala Mai Municipality, along the Banepa Bardibas Highway, police said. All four deceased were males, but their identities are yet to be ascertained. The car, with a Bihar registration, was heading to Kathmandu from the east, and its fall resulted in the death of three people on the spot.

China backs Macron’s remarks against following US policy

BEIJING, APR 12 (PTI):

China on Wednesday waded into controversy over French President Emmanuel Macron’s comments in which he called for greater “European sovereignty” by not following the US policy over China and Taiwan.

“The question we need to answer, as Europeans, is the following: Is it in our interest to accelerate (a crisis) on Taiwan? No,” Macron was quoted as saying in the interview after his recent visit to China during which he held extensive talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing and later Guangzhou. “The worst thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron said.

Three Sherpas missing in avalanche at Mt. Everest

KATHMANDU, APR 12

(PTI): Three Nepalese

Sherpa guides went missing on Wednesday after they fell into a deep crevasse on the most dangerous section of Mt. Everest amidst an avalanche, in the season’s first accident at the world’s tallest peak.

The incident occurred between Camp 1 and the base camp of Mt. Everest when the Sherpa guides were carrying expedition logistics, Nepal officials said. A team of around 25 high-altitude guides were climbing above the Khumbu Icefall early Wednesday when a massive ice sheet of more than 50 metres tumbled down the mountain, below Camp 1 at 5,700 metres, burying the three Sherpa guides underneath, The Kathmandu Post newspaper reported.

The missing Sherpas were identified as Themwa

Tenzing Sherpa, Lakpa

Rita Sherpa and Badure Sherpa.

9 dead in armed attack on Ecuadorian fishing port

QUITO, APR 12 (IANS):

At least nine people were killed in an armed attack at a small fishing port in the Ecuadorian province of Esmeraldas, on the border with Colombia, said the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE). Authorities recovered seven bodies at the scene and two more from a nearby hospital, and took them to a forensic centre, the FGE said late Tuesday and added that it was investigating “to find those responsible for this crime”, reports Xinhua news agency. According to local media, a group of assailants armed with pistols and rifles arrived at the port in the morning, and began shooting at merchants and employees working at the warehouse before fleeing the scene.

Xi asks military to resolutely defend China’s sovereignty & maritime rights

BEIJING, APR 12 (PTI):

President Xi Jinping on Wednesday asked the military to resolutely defend China’s sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and strive to maintain the overall stability of the neighbouring regions, amid rising tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea.

Xi, who is also the chairman of the Central Military Commission - the high command of the Chinese military, inspected the troops at the Southern Theatre Command, stressed strengthening training and combat readiness and accelerating transformation to boost the armed forces’ modernisation levels on all fronts.

He called on the armed forces to resolutely fulfill the duties entrusted by the ruling Communist Party and the people.

At the Navy headquarters of the Southern Theatre Command, Xi said the armed forces should analyse and address military issues from a political

perspective, carry out military struggles in a resolute and flexible manner, and enhance the ability to ensure timely and proper responses to complex situations.

His comments came as China faced increasing tensions with the US over Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

C hina on Monday said it has successfully completed its three-day large-scale fire and fury military drills “encircling” Taiwan, including the use of an aircraft carrier, aimed at showing its anger over the US House Speaker’s meeting with Taiwan’s

No global company can think about growth without India: FICCI president

WASHINGTON, APR 12

President Tsai Ing-wen.

Also China braced for tensions in the South China Sea as the US secured access to four additional military bases in the Philippines - a key bit of real estate which would offer a front row seat to monitor the Chinese in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.

China claims nearly all of the disputed South China Sea, though Taiwan, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam all claim parts of it. Beijing has built artificial islands and military installations in the South China Sea.

Also, more than 17,000 Philippine and US troops on Tuesday kicked off the most extensive joint military activities in decades in the Philippines. According to the Philippine military, the 18-day yearly exercise dubbed Balikatan involves 5,400 Philippine and 12,200 US troops, making it the largest iteration of the PhilippinesUS joint drills conducted in

WHO reports first death from H3N8 virus in China

NEW DELHI, APR 12

(IANS): China has recorded the first death due to avian influenza A(H3N8) virus, the World Health Organisation said on Wednesday.

China, on March 27, notified the WHO of a H3N8 virus infection in a 56-year-old woman.

The woman from Guangdong province fell ill due to the virus on February 22 and was hospitalised for severe pneumonia on March 3. She subsequently died on March 16, the global health body said in a statement.

“The case was detected through the severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) surveillance system. The patient had multiple underlying conditions. She had a history of exposure to live poultry before the onset of the disease, and a history of wild bird presence around

her home,” the WHO said.

According to reports from health officials, the preliminary epidemiological investigation into this event suggests that exposure to a live poultry market may have been the cause of infection.

Health authorities also carried out epidemiological investigation and close contact tracing. They found no other cases among close contacts of the infected individual.

“It appears that this virus does not have the ability to spread easily from person to person, and therefore the risk of it spreading among

humans at the national, regional, and international levels is considered to be low,” the WHO said. However, due to the constantly evolving nature of influenza viruses, the WHO stressed the importance of global surveillance to detect virological, epidemiological and clinical changes associated with circulating influenza viruses which may affect human (or animal) health. Zoonotic influenza infections in humans may be asymptomatic or may cause disease. Depending on factors related to the specific virus and the infected host, disease can range from conjunctivitis or mild flu-like symptoms to severe acute respiratory disease or even death. Gastrointestinal or neurological symptoms have been reported but these are rare.

decades.

About 100 members of the Australian armed forces joined in the exercises, while a dozen countries, including Japan and Britain, are participating as observers.

In his speech, Xi ordered the armed forces to strengthen training under combat conditions, innovate the concepts of combat and the methods of combat and training, and intensify force-on-force training based on operational plans. They should develop new types of combat forces and means and accelerate the efforts to incorporate new equipment and new forces into actual combat capacity, he said.

Xi stressed the importance of strengthening the Party’s leadership over the armed forces and urged relentless efforts to exercise full and rigorous Party selfgovernance in the military and govern the military with strict discipline in every aspect.

(PTI): A series of reforms undertaken by the government coupled with efforts aimed at making it easier to do business has made India a land of opportunities, a top Indian industrialist has said, asserting that no global company can think about growth without India being a part of its plans.

Subhrakant Panda, president of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) said India is where it is today because of a couple of factors, including sustained reforms even during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“You cannot think about growth without India being in your plans. It’s as simple as that. But if I were to expand on that a little bit more, where else in the world would you find an opportunity where you not only have a large unified domestic market, but also the resources to produce not just for the domestic market, but use it as an export base,” he told PTI on Tuesday.

“That is where I think India represents a unique

proposition. Whether you’re a large global corporation or a local entity you cannot be thinking about growing your business without India figuring in your plans,” he said.

Panda is in the US leading a FICCI delegation of eminent Indian corporate leaders to attend meetings on the sidelines of the annual Spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

He said the economy has fully recovered from the pandemic, but the global slowdown and the fact that advanced economies are struggling with inflation will have an impact on India.

He said India is ideally positioned for rapid growth in the coming years.

A lot has been done

whether it is from the ease of doing business to encash the opportunities available for India globally, he said. FICCI co-hosted a business roundtable with US India Strategic and Partnership Forum on Tuesday that was addressed by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Panda said there was a great deal of interest in the India growth story and a large number of leading companies attended the roundtable. “We had to, at one point in time, stop accepting further registrations. So, this in itself is an indicator of the interest in the India growth story. Everybody either already has a presence in India, or is looking to have a presence in India,” he said. “They were very appreciative of what has been done to attract investment into the country. And of course, a few of them pointed out some issues which the finance minister has said that they will look into and take appropriate action. Generally, there is a lot of appreciation of where India is at the moment,” Panda said.

Economic growth in N Ireland is ‘just beginning’: Biden

BELFAST (NORTHERN

IRELAND), APR 12

(AP): President Joe Biden said a bright future for Northern Ireland is “just beginning,” pledging enduring American support as he marked the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. The US-brokered deal brought peace to this part of the United Kingdom, but a new political crisis has recently tested its strength.

“It’s up to us to keep this going,” Biden said in a speech at Ulster University.

On his first presidential visit to Northern Ireland, Biden stressed that American investment can help fuel economic growth — especially if the fractious politicians in Belfast resolve a stalemate that has put their government on pause.

“Your history is our history,” he said. “And

even more important, your future is America’s future.”

Biden’s speech navigated Northern Ireland’s complex political currents, referring to his British as well as Irish ancestry, and noting the contribution to the US of largely Protestant Ulster Scots as well as Irish Catholics like his own forebears.

US involvement was key to negotiating the Good Friday accord, which largely ended decades of sectarian violence that killed 3,600 people.

Biden credited people who were willing to “risk boldly for the future” by

reaching the agreement, reminding the audience that “peace was not inevitable.”

While that peace has endured, Northern Ireland is currently without a functioning government. Stormont, the seat of its assembly, has been suspended since the Democratic Unionist Party, which formed half of a powersharing government, walked out a year ago over a post-Brexit trade dispute.

In addition, a top police official was shot and injured in February, an attack that authorities have blamed on Irish Republican Army dissidents opposed to the peace process.

“The enemies of peace will not prevail,”

Biden said. “Northern Ireland will not go back, pray God.” Biden’s schedule on Wednesday began over tea with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Asked what

Harry to attend King Charles Coronation without wife Taliban say there’s

LONDON, APR 12 (PTI): Britain’s Prince Harry will attend the coronation of his father King Charles III next month, but his wife Meghan will remain in the United States with the couple’s children, Buckingham Palace said on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old fifth in line to the British throne, who stepped back as a frontline royal and is now based in California with Markle and their kids Archie and Lilibet, will join 2,000 guests at the historic ceremony at Westminster Abbey in London on May 6. There had been a lot of speculation over the delay in the Duke and Duchess of Sussex confirming whether they would be joining royalty, world leaders and community leaders at the religious service.

“Buckingham Palace is pleased to confirm that the

Duke of Sussex will attend the Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey on 6th May,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement.

“The Duchess of Sussex (Meghan Markle) will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet,” it said.

The visit follows Harry’s controversial revelations of his troubled relationship with Britain’s royal family, in a controversial Netflix docu-

mentary and autobiography ‘Spare’. Archewell, Harry and Meghan’s charitable foundation, issued a similar statement to Buckingham Palace soon after.

“The Duke of Sussex will attend the coronation service at Westminster Abbey on May 6th. The Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet,” it read.

As the date of the royal

Coronation coincides with Archie’s fourth birthday, speculation had been rife around the couple’s journey from the US amid a strained relationship between Harry and his father and older brother William, the Prince of Wales.

The decision for Meghan not to attend will inevitably be seen as a sign of unresolved tensions within the family. As Harry is no longer a “working royal”, the role he is likely to play in the Coronation day’s ceremonial aspects also remains uncertain.

For Harry’s late grandmother Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June last year, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not take part in the traditional appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony with other working royals.

Musk says owning Twitter ‘painful’ but needed to be done

LONDON, APR 12 (AP):

Billionaire Elon Musk has told the BBC that running Twitter has been “quite painful” but that the social media company is now roughly breaking even after he acquired it late last year.

In an interview also streamed live late Tuesday on Twitter Spaces, Musk discussed his ownership of the online platform, including layoffs, misinformation and his work style.

“It’s not been boring. It’s quite a rollercoaster,” he told the U.K. broadcaster at Twitter’s San Francisco

headquarters. It was a rare chance for a mainstream news outlet to interview Musk, who also owns Tesla and SpaceX. After buying Twitter for $44 billion last year, Musk’s changes included eliminat-

ing the company’s communiciations department. Reporters who email the company to seek comment now receive an autoreply with a poop emoji. The interview was sometimes tense, with Musk challenging the reporter to back up assertions about rising levels of hate speech on the platform. At other times, Musk laughed at his own jokes, mentioning more than once that he wasn’t the CEO but his dog Floki was. He also revealed that he sometimes sleeps on a couch at Twitter’s San Fran-

cisco office.

Advertisers who had shunned the platform in the wake of Musk’s tumultuous acquisition have mostly returned, the billionaire said, without providing details.

Musk predicted that Twitter could become “cash flow positive” in the current quarter “if current trends continue.” Because Twitter is a private company, information about its finances can’t be verified.

After acquiring the platform, Musk carried out mass layoffs as part of costcutting efforts.

he would tell the leaders of Northern Ireland’s five main political parties when he meets with them later in the day, Biden responded, “I’m going to listen.”

Amanda Sloat, the Democratic president’s top adviser on European affairs, said that while Biden wants to see the Stormont government back up and running, he won’t try to strongarm Northern Ireland’s politicians back to the table.

“The purpose of the president’s visit today is to mark the Good Friday Agreement, to continue to reaffirm the support of the United States for peace and prosperity,” she said. “The president’s message ... is the United States’ strong support for that, the belief that the people of Northern Ireland deserve to have a democratically elected power sharing representative governance.”

no obstacles for United Nations work in Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD, APR 12

(AP): The Taliban’s chief spokesman said on Wednesday there are no obstacles for the UN to function in Afghanistan, after they barred Afghan women from working at the global body.

Last week, the country’s Taliban rulers took a step further in the restrictive measures they have imposed on women and said that female Afghan staffers employed with the UN mission can no longer report for work. The ban is being actively enforced by the country’s intelligence agency, which reports to the Taliban’s leadership in Kandahar. The UN says it cannot accept the decision, calling it unlawful and an unparalleled violation of women’s rights. It says women are

cruc ial for the delivery of life-saving aid to millions of Afghans, and has instructed its national staff, male and female, to stay at home.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban-led government’s chief spokesman and part of the supreme leader’s inner circle, denied authorities were to blame for Afghanistan’s many crises.

The decision to bar Afghan women from working at the UN was an internal matter and should be re -

spected by all sides, Mujahid said, as he set out the Taliban’s position and demands to the international community. “This decision does not mean there is discrimination here, or that the activities of the United Nations are blocked. On the contrary, we are committed to all the rights of all our countrymen, taking into account their religious and cultural interests.

“Considering the emergency situation in Afghanistan, it is necessary for the member countries of the UN to resolve the problem of frozen Afghan assets, banking, travel bans and other restrictions as soon as possible so that Afghanistan can progress in economic, political and security areas. Afghans have the capacity to stand on their own feet.”

OFFICE OF THE MONGSENYIMTI GAZETTED OFFICERS’ FORUM H.Q. KOHIMA, NAGALAND FELICITATION

The Mongsenyimti Officers’ Gazetted Forum extends its heartfelt congratulations and profound appreciation to Shri. Moa Subong on being conferred the prestigious Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest Civilian honor, under the Art category. Born on the 8th of September, 1960, Shri. Moa Subong is an illustrious musician, actor, composer, and folk fusion artist, celebrated for his innovation of the ‘Bamhum’- a flute like musical instrument crafted from bamboo, and the ‘Tikzik’- a Naga Bamboo percussion instrument. In addition he is the esteemed co-founder of the folk fusion band ‘Abiogenesis’, alongside his wife Guru Arenla Subong,and is recognized for pioneering a novel world music genre called ‘Howey’.

The Mongsenyimti Officers’ Gazetted Forum acknowledges Shri. Moa Subong’s invaluable contributions to the realms of music and art, as well as his role in inspiring individuals across the globe. We extend our warmest wishes for his continued success and prosperity in all future endeavors. Sd/- Sd/(SUBONGYANGER) (SENTILONG OZUKUM)

Subhrakant Panda

Xi Jinping

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry

Joe Biden

Zabihullah Mujahid

Elon Musk

‘Zombie Detective’ star, S Korean actress found dead

South Korean actress Jung Chae-yul has been found dead in her apartment. She was 26.

Chae-yul’s death was announced by her management company on Tuesday, although the cause of her death is still unknown, reports nypost. com.

“We are here to deliver heartbreaking news. Actress Chae-yul has left us,” Chaeyul’s agency, Management S, told MK News, as translated by Koreaboo.

“Her funeral will be held privately in accordance with the wishes of her family, who must be in greater sadness than anyone else,” the statement continued.

“We hope you pray for the deceased so Chae-yul, who was also sincere in her acting, may rest in peace.”

“Our Chae-Yul was very hardworking. She was

Give Your Hands a Hand

You use your hands to do so many things: tie your shoes, open jars, drive, and use your phone, to name just a few. It’s hard to do much of anything without them, but as you get older, they can get weaker and less flexible. Some hand problems can even be signs of certain health conditions. Know what to look out for so you keep them in good shape.

Grip Strength

You can lose this naturally as you age, especially after 65, and that can make it harder to do everyday tasks. If your grip gets weaker over time, it’s probably caused by brittle bones, arthritis, or muscle loss. If it happens suddenly, it might be a sign of a more serious problem, like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure.

Grip Strength:

Treatment

An occupational or physical therapist can test the strength in your hands and help you regain or keep it. You also can do many exercises at home. For example, you might squeeze something like a tennis ball as hard as you can for 3 to 5 seconds, then rest briefly -- do that 10 times with each hand. Start with once a day or once every other day, depending on how your hands feel.

Tremors

Your hands can shake for many reasons at any age, but it’s more common after 50. Some medicines -- like mood stabilizers and drugs that treat seizures or migraines -- can cause it or make it worse. Anxiety, stress, low blood sugar, being tired, or having too much caffeine can, too. An “active” tremor happens when you try to use your hands. A “passive” tremor happens when your hands are at rest.

Tremors: Treatment

While it may bother you, an active tremor is usually harmless. Changes in diet and lifestyle can help -- drinking less caffeine, for example. But a passive tremor can be a sign of a serious problem, including a tumor or a brain disease, such as Parkinson’s. See your doctor right away if you have these kinds of tremors.

Arthritis

This inflames your joints, and it’s especially common in places where you’ve had breaks, sprains, or fractures, even if they were treated. You’re more likely to get it as you age, and over time, it can lead to pain, swelling, and loss of movement.

Arthritis: Treatment

Your doctor will talk with you about how active you’d like to be, and how the pain and lack of flexibility affect your daily life. They

a deep-hearted and cool friend,” the CEO of ChaeYul’s management agency told OSEN, according to the Independent.

“In my opinion, it is hard to describe in words how amazing she was as an actress.”

Yull made her debut as a model in the 2016 reality

Instagram introduces new features to its creator marketplace

Meta-owned Instagram has announced that it is extending access to elements of the creator marketplace via API (Application Programming Interface), making it easier for brands to discover and continue working with creators on the third-party creator marketing platform they already use. The company is also expanding creator marketplace access to brand agencies.

Netflix dark

comedy ‘Beef’ joins the race for Emmys, but in another category

allow brands to easily reach creators in a priority inbox on the creator marketplace -- without ever leaving their preferred creator marketing platform.

Streaming giant Netflix and the creative teams behind the new dark comic series ‘Beef’ have chosen to seek Emmy Awards consideration as a limited or anthology series instead of a comedy.

stories that must be resolved within its season, with no ongoing storylines/cast allowed. As a result, ‘The White Lotus’ will be vying in the drama categories.

series, ‘Devil’s Runway’, but more recently shot to fame for her role in the South Korean comedy ‘Zombie Detective’. She was in the midst of filming the upcoming K-drama series, ‘Wedding Impossible’, where she was starring in a lead role.

(IANS)

“Today, we’re announcing new ways to discover and reach Instagram creators by expanding access to brand agencies and testing integrations with top creator marketing platforms,” Instagram said in a blogpost.

Instagram launched its creator marketplace last year as a new destination for brands and creators to connect and form branded content partnerships.

The first API features ‘Prioritised DMs’, which will

Your hands as you age

weeks.

The second API features ‘Project Briefs’, which will allow brands to publish structured project briefs to the creator marketplace straight from a third party. The company is testing these APIs with a small cohort of leading creator marketing partners, including Aspire, Captiv8 and CreatorIQ.

Moreover, Instagram is also testing dedicated access to the creator marketplace for brand agencies to let them manage creator discovery and collaborations on behalf of their brand clients. (IANS)

Bruising: Treatment

Starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, the series dropped on the streaming platform on April 6, garnering positive reviews from critics and audiences, reports Variety.

Created by Lee Sung Jin, best known for writing and producing ‘Silicon Valley’, was announced in March 2021 and commissioned as an anthology series for Netflix.

A move into limited doesn’t mean ‘Beef’ won’t return. On the contrary, while a second season has yet to be announced, shows in the limited or anthology race have frequently returned - with

or without the original cast or story intact. HBO’s ‘The White Lotus’ swept the limited categories in 2022 and is now seeking Emmy attention for its sophomore season. However, despite being subtitled ‘Sicily’, it was deemed ineligible to return in the limited/ anthology series categories, primarily due to Jennifer Coolidge’s Tanya character returning.

In 2021, the Television Academy defined limited or anthology series as

FELICITATION

The Huruotsumiapfü Mechü

‘Beef’ tells the story of two people, Danny Cho (Yeun) and Amy Lau (Wong), who allow a chance road rage encounter slowly consume them, with hopes of seeking revenge.

The move to limited is just what the Emmy doctor ordered in a race that’s been less than exciting thus far, unlike previous years. The would-be contender can easily find space in a probable fiveallotted lineup (which is based on the total number of submissions) that currently has two sure-fire inclusions - Apple’s prison drama ‘Black Bird’ and Netflix’s hit serial killer study ‘Dahmer - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. (IANS)

might recommend antiinflammatories or give you a steroid shot that can ease pain and swelling for weeks or possibly months. In some cases, splints that protect your joints and keep you from overusing them can help. But wearing them too long can lead to muscle loss.

Your Skin

We’ve all seen the “liver spots” -- or “age spots” -that can show up after years in the sun. As your skin ages and wrinkles, it’s harder to keep moisture in, and that can lead to dry, itchy skin. Veins become more obvious with age because you lose soft tissue. This is especially true in your hands.

Your Skin: Treatment

Protect your hands against the sun’s rays with broad-spectrum sunscreen rated 30 SPF or higher. Wear cotton-lined gloves when you garden or clean, and choose a mild soap or cleanser that doesn’t strip your hands of their natural oils. Moisturizers and a healthy diet with plenty of vitamins, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids also can help keep your skin and nails healthy.

Skin Cancer

Over the years, the

tops of your hands get lots of sun, which is a leading cause of this disease. A fair complexion, problems with your immune system, certain kinds of moles, and a family history of skin cancer can also raise your chances of having it.

Skin Cancer:

Diagnosis and Treatment

A dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in skin care) can check any unusual spots and teach you what to look for. If they find skin cancer, you’ll need surgery to take out the cancer cells. You also may have radiation or chemotherapy to kill any that are left to keep them from spreading.

Bruising

When it’s on the back of your hands and arms, doctors call it “purpura.”

A light knock can cause it, and it’s more common on thin, wrinkled, or sundamaged older skin. You’re also more likely to bruise if you take drugs like aspirin or other blood thinners, or drink alcohol often. It starts as blotches of red that turn purple, then darken and fade. It doesn’t usually hurt, but it can last longer than a normal bruise, often a few

Protect your hands and arms when you think they’re in the line of fire: Special sleeves can help with this, or your doctor might suggest a cream or lotion to keep your skin from bruising or help make your skin thicker. If you take blood thinners and think they’re causing the bruises, talk with them about possibly changing your medication or the amount you take.

Dupuytren’s

Contracture

This is when the tissue just under the skin of your hand gets unusually thick. It can cause your fingers -- most often the ring and pinky fingers -- to bend into your palm. You may get lumps or thick cords (like

string) in your palm as well. It sometimes affects the top of your knuckles or the soles of your feet, too. Doctors aren’t sure what causes it, but it happens more often in men over 40, especially of Northern European descent.

Dupuytren’s Contracture: Treatment

For many people, a mild case doesn’t cause major problems or pain, and it may not get worse, so your doctor might take a waitand-see approach. If it is causing problems, they may suggest a type of stimulation with needles, shots, or possibly surgery to give you more movement in your hands. Treatment doesn’t always fix it completely, though, and it sometimes comes back.

Melinda Ratini, MS, DO

Krotho, L.Khel Kohima Village wholeheartedly extends heartiest congratulations to Smti Neihunuo Sorhie on being conferred the prestigious Padma Shri Award 2023, the fourth highest civilian award in India for her contribution in the field of Arts. Lauding her achievements as significant and momentous, the Krotho further implore God’s abundant blessings and guidance in all her future endeavours.

K-781/23

OFFICE OF THE ONGPANGKONG STUDENTS’ CONFERENCE (OKM) H.Q. Mokokchung-798601

FELICITATION

The Ongpangkong Students’ Conference with immense pride and honour convey our heartiest congratulations to four of our elected members from Ongpangkong Range, Mokokchung in the recently concluded 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly.

Hollotoli School

Shri. Imkong L Imchen Shri. Imkongmar Hon’ble Advisor, Inf. & Pub. Relation, Hon’ble Advisor Soil & Water Conservation Minority Affairs, Sericulture

Shri. Sharingain Longkumer Shri. Metsubo Jamir Hon’ble Speaker, NLA Hon’ble Minister Rural Development, SIRD MKC-135/23

XI

• Registration form is available on the school website www.hollotolischool.com

• Registration form to be mailed to admission@hollotolischool.com

• Last date for submission of registration form is 18 April, 2023.

• Entrance test will be conducted on 21 April, 2023.

• Students have to submit internal grade marks for Class IX and X

• Boarding facility is available for both boys and girls.

• Remedial classes for boarders.

• For more information, kindly contact: 8415924391

The OKM prays and wishes that our Almighty God continue to bless our leaders with good health and wisdom in their endeavours to serve the people with commitment and development. Sd/- Sd/Limatongzuk Jamir Sungkumjang Kichu President Gen. Secy.

Huruotsumiapfü Mechü Krotho, L. Khel Kohima Village.

DB-471/23

Super Cup: Deccan upset Blasters 2-1

contrast, looked flat in the absence of their talisman, Adrian Luna. For them, worse was to follow.

Sreenidi captain David Castaneda made it 2-0 just before half time. Hassan was the one to start the move this time, passing the ball wide out to Dinesh Singh on the left flank. The left back whipped in a curling cross inside the penalty box. While the ball had the requisite venom, it required some more individual brilliance to result in a goal.

Castaneda provided it, rising high and volleying the ball while in mid-air, into the top corner. It may well prove to be the goal of the tournament.

ICC T20I rankings: Suryakumar Yadav maintains top spot

DUBAI, APR 12 (IANS):

The battle for the top spot of the ICC Men’s T20I Batter Rankings continues to heat up as Suryakumar Yadav maintained his no. 1 position and Pakistan duo Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam get the chance to close in on the Indian batter at the head of proceedings.

While Suryakumar currently holds a commanding lead at the top of the T20I rankings for batters with 906 rating points, Rizwan placed second with 811 rating points.

37th PDSA meet: Chozuba area leads medal tally on Day-two

DIMAPUR, APR 12 (NPN): Chozuba Area Sports Association (CASA) continue to lead the medals table tally with 24 medals (11 gold, 6 silver, 7 bronze) on the second day of the ongoing 37th Phek District Sports Association (PDSA) meet 2023 at Chozuba Town.

The second position Chokri Area Games and Sports Association (CAGSA) has 26 medals (8 gold, 14 silver, 4 bronze) followed by third position Phek Area Sports Association with 11 medals (4 gold, 7 bronze).

Match in action between Sreenidi Deccan FC and Kerala Blasters FC during the Hero Super Cup.

MANJERI, APR 12

(AGENCIES): A sublime finish from Rilwan Hassan and a stunning volley from captain David Castaneda helped Hero I-League runners up Sreenidi Deccan Football Club cruise past Hero Indian Super League heavyweights Kerala Blasters FC 2-0 at the EMS Stadium, Kozhikode in a Group A clash at the Hero Super Cup today. Sreenidi Deccan head coach Carlos Manuel Vaz

Pinto had stressed in the pre-match interaction that his side had everything to prove against the team from Kerala. And on the day they did so in style, kicking off with the same confidence which earned them a precious point against Bengaluru FC in their opener.

Phalguni Singh, who was adjudged the Hero of The Match today, played as an anchor in the Sreenidi midfield, controlling the pace of the game and it was

he who started the move for their 1st goal in the 17th minute. The midfielder ran a few metres with the ball before passing it on to Rilwan Hassan. The former Midtjylland player cut inside and beat his marker before letting loose a low shot to the far post to give his side the lead.

Sreenidi thoroughly deserved their lead, having been the more innovative side for the opening period. Kerala Blasters, in sharp

Kerala Blasters tried their best to put together a comeback in the second half, but lacked a cutting edge up front.

Sreenidi goalkeeper

Aryan Lamba was called into action in the 68th minute, his fingers deflecting the ball onto the post to deny Mark Leskovic’s header.

The result meant that Sreenidi could secure a spot in the semi-finals if they register a win against Hero I-League champions RoundGlass Punjab FC in their final group game.

Babar moved one spot up to third with 755 points, followed by South African Aiden Markram and New Zealand’s Devon Conway in the fourth and fifth positions respectively on the rankings that were updated by the ICC on Wednesday.

Both Babar and Rizwan sat out Pakistan’s most recent T20I series against Bangladesh. It was Devon Conway’s absence from New Zealand’s series against Sri Lanka that led to Pakistan skipper improving one place to third on the latest set of rankings,

2ndDr.SavizoYhomeMemorialTennisCupbegins

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, APRIL 12

(NPN): The 2nd edition of Dr. Savizo Yhome Memorial Tennis Cup organised by the Dimapur District Tennis Association (DDTA) and Kohima District Tennis Association (KDTA), under Nagaland Lawn Tennis Association (NLTA), commenced on Wednesday at Chavino Peseyie Indoor Tennis Stadium, Kuda village, Dimapur with Abeio Kire, (IFS, Retd.) as the chief guest.

Speaking at the inaugural programme, Kire expressed gratitude to the family of late Dr. Yhome for funding the tournament, which started in 2021. He also recalled the humble beginning of NLTA and tennis influence in Nagaland in late 1980s. He added that it had come a long way, that

today NLTA has its own complex and hosting spectacular tournament, which reflects the commitment of the founding members of the association. Kire also stated that at present, tennis in Nagaland is still at the level of a hobby or recreational activity, but expressed hope that in coming years, the youngsters would excel and represent the state in National and Interna -

tional platforms. He further encouraged the players to take advantage of every opportunity provided by the association and to maintained good health.

Speaking to Nagaland Post on the side-line of the inaugural programme, tournament director Kikrusetuo Sekhose, said that engaging in any kind of sports activities particularly lawn tennis isn’t just about physical or

mental exercise anymore, but additionally it helps an individual by providing access to different opportunities such as in academic, military and social recognition.

He further informed that the tournament would be held after every two years and the next edition will be a NorthEast level tournament. The tournament has four categories – men’s singles, veteran’s

doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles.

The cash prize for the men’s singles, will be firstINR 50000, second - INR 30000 and INR 10000 each for the two semi-finalists. In veterans double, first - INR 25000, second - INR 15000 and INR 5000 each for the two semi-finalists. In the men’s doubles, INR 30000, INR 20000 and INR 10000 each for the two semi-finalists. In mixed doubles, INR 20000, INR 10000 and INR 5000 each for the two semifinalists.

Around 40 players are participating at the four-day event and will conclude on April 15.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by Theja Khate, who also delivered the welcome speech and invocation by Asa Khate.

1st DEATH A NN I VE RS A RY of Late Anjali Kachari

In men’s athletic events, Mulusayi Medeo of Chozuba area the individual champion won three gold medals in 400m sprint (0.57.25), 800m race (02:12.04) and 1500 m race (4.38.47). In women’s athletic events, Choyivelu Neinu (PASA) and Chekrotalu Khusoh (CASA) shared the glory of being the best women’s athletic with both winning three gold each. Neinu won three gold medals in 100m dash (0:14.53), Long Jump (4.48m) and Triple jump (9.61m). While Khusoh won three gold medals in 800m race (02:48.63), 1500 m race (06:06.47) and 3000m race (15:12.00).

Nagaland’s best discus thrower Venuzo Dawhuo of Chokri Area Games and Sports took gold in discus throw with his best throw of 36.22 meter. He bettered his record that won him the gold medal in 2nd Nagaland Olympic Games in 2022 with his best throw of 35.53 meter. While Vemele Thingo also of CAGSA in second with 30.96 meter, followed by third with Huluyi D Vadeo of CCSA with 29.49 meter. While in shotput competition, the Northeast gold medallist Venuzo Dawhuo (CAGSA) got his second gold medal with his throw of 12.08m in shotput. Vemele Thingo (CAGSA) with 11.35 m in second and third by Wetso Kapfo with 10.80m. In men’s football,

defending champion Center Chakhesang Sports Association (CCSA) settled for a 1-1 draw against Seceku Area Sports Association in the first match, while KhezhaKuzha Tephe Sports Association defeated Chokri Area Games and Sports 2-0 in the second match. While the league matches for volleyball and basketball for both men and women are underway.

The Sports association consisting of 9 areas with Chozuba Area, Chokri Area, Phek Area, Centre Chakhesang, Seceku Area, KhezhaKuzha Tephe, Tizu Area, Phoyisha, Sekrüzu Area are taking part in the Phek district level tournament with more than 800 athletes competing for the sports meet.

NAGALAND HOTELS & TOURISM DEVELPOMENT CORPORATION LIMITED (Govt. of Nagaland State Undertaking)

Introductory meeting and felicitation programme in honour of Shri. Thongwang Konyak, Hon’ble Chairman, Nagaland Hotels & Tourism Development Corporation Limited was held on 12th April 2023 in the official chamber of Chairman, Head Office, NHTDC, Dimapur. The programme was chaired by Smti. Nichuwheno, General Manager (Admn. & Opn.) . Welcome address and highlights of the Corporation activities was addressed by Shri. Shurhovol Naleo, General Manager (Nodal & Dev.) followed by speech from the Hon’ble Chairman, Shri. Tongwang Konyak. The Chairman on his speech thanked the Chief Minister of Nagaland for giving him the opportunity to serve the Corporation as Chairman. He also advised the officers and staff to be disciplined and work collectively.

DP-1578/23

Ac KNO w LE d GEMENT

FC Barcelona

MADRID, APR 12 (IANS):

striker Robert Lewandows-

ki added his voices to those calling for Leo Messi to return to the club when his current contract with Paris Saint Germain expires at the end of June.

Barca coach Xavi Hernandez on Sunday said he’d like Messi back at the club he left two years ago, while the club vicepresident Rafael Yuste expressed the same wish last week. Speaking at the presentation of a book to raise funds for children suffering autism, Lewandowski was also asked about the Argentinean striker, reports Xinhua.

“Messi belongs to Barca and if he comes back, it will be something incredible. We know that his place is here in Barcelona,” said Lewandowski. “I don’t know what will happen, but I hope that next season we can play together,” he added.

Barca extended their lead at the top of La Liga to 13 points on Monday night with a 0-0 draw at home to Girona, and although he was disappointed with his own display, the striker was content with the season so far.

“We know Barca haven’t won LaLiga in recent years and we’re on the right track,” he said, adding that a title win would help the confidence of many players.

Born on 13/3/1962 – Died on 02/4/2023

Apo, We couldn’t believe that you left us too soon! We don’t want to accept and admit but there is God; the Supreme who is in control of everything. Rest in peace till we meet again.

We are forever indebted to your incredible kind gestures at the time of unimaginable pain with the lost of our beloved father Late Mhao Tungoe on 2nd April at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK). At the outset of his hospitalization till the mortal resting place, every bit of concern through prayer, visitation, consolation, physical presence, sending sympathetic note, cash and kind were all felt and seen.

To mention;

• Y. Patton Dy. C.M, Govt. Of Nagaland

• Hachio Patton Senior P.S to Dy. C.M

• Kohima Lotha Baptist Church, Kohima

• Kenuozou colony,Kohima

• Doctors and nurses of Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK)

• Kohima Old Riphyim Village Ekhung

• Kohima Humtsoe Union

• 66th Batch IGP (INT) Kohima Nagaland

• Old Riphyim Wokha Town Union

• Old Riphyim Baptist Church

• Tungu Union Wokha Town

• Wokha Town Nungyingpvui Shenta Okho (WTNPSO)

• Nungyingpvui yanpoe yanpi Okho

• Wokha District Pensioner’s union

• Lower Mount Tiyi College Colony Council

• Colony youth

• Tchuphyangza Baptist Ekhumkho

• Relatives

• Neighbours

• Friends

• Individuals

Born: 27-11-1959 Died: 13-04-2022

Dearest Mummy,

It's been a year since you left us for your Heavenly abode. Though you are not here with us, your presence and memories will forever be in our hearts.

We deeply miss you….Until we meet again …. Loving Children, Sister, In-Laws and Relatives.

K-776/23

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

With immense gratitude and appreciation, we the bereaved family of Late Kevise Kelio, who died on 07.04.2023 in Kohima, would like to acknowledge and express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every individual, friends, neighbors, churches and unions, who stood by us during his brief illness and sad demise. We thank you for your continued physical presence, financial, material and above all prayer support during our bereavement.

We deeply regret our inability to thank each and every one of you personally, but your considered act of kindness will always be remembered and cherished. It is our earnest prayer that our good Lord Almighty bless you abundantly. Loving wife, children & grandchildren.

K-783/23

08.04.1968 – 07.04.2023

The Family members of LATE MOANUNGSANG LONGKUMER, Longjang Village, would like to express our profound gratitude to all the individuals and entity, who stood by us during the prolonged illness and unfortunate demise of our beloved. Your constant prayer, love, physical and financial support has truly strengthened us in the phase of illness and in the moment of grief. We specially convey our gratitude to:

1. North East Cancer hospital and Research Institute, Jorabat, Guwahati.

2. Eden Medical Centre, Dimapur.

3. Nagaland House, Medical Lodge, Guwahati.

4. Kohima Ao Baptist Arogo.

5. Aoyimsen Baptist Arogo Dimapur.

6. Kohima Longjang Senso Telongjem.

7. Kohima Longjanglar Telongjem.

8. Electrical Colony Kohima.

9. Friends, Relatives, Neighbors, and all well wishers. Though we are unable to thank each one of you individually, we earnestly pray to the Almighty God to bless you all abundantly from His bountiful treasure in Heaven Loving Wife, Children, Grand children & Son in law.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4.7 K-780/23

Men’s volleyball in progress during the PDSA meet.

Chief guest Abeio Kire with organisers and players after the inaugural. (NP)

Lewandowski adds voice, calling for Messi’s return

IPL: Dhoni, Jadeja heroics in vain as RR beat CSK

CHENNAI, APR 12

(IANS): A valiant blazing 32 not out off 17 balls by skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni went in vain as Chennai Super Kings lost to Rajasthan Royals by three runs in a last-ball edge-of-the-seat thriller in the India Premier League (IPL) 2023 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Wednesday.

Chasing a target of 176 on a slow turner and with dew coming down in copious amounts was expected to be easy for Chennai Super Kings in what was the 200th match for Dhoni as captain. The CSK skipper made a brave effort by hitting two sixes in the final over but in the end, fell short narrowly.

But after recovering from the setback of losing Rituraj Gaikwad, their top scorer so far, for eight runs, but recovering to 78/1 thanks to Devon Conway and Ajinkya Rahane, CSK reached a stage with 40 needed off the last 12 deliveries, Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja pulled them to 21 off six and then seven off three deliveries. It boiled down to five runs off the final delivery faced by Dhoni when Sandeep Sharma, who had started the final over with two wides, bowled a good

yorker to deny Dhoni the glory on his milestone day.

After deciding to bowl first and restricting Rajasthan Royals to what initially looked like a below-par 175/8 in 20 overs, Chennai could manage 172/6 in 20 overs and lost by a narrow margin.

Earlier, brilliant bowling by Rajasthan Royals spinner Ravichandran Ashwin (2-25) and Yuzvendra Chahal (2-27) off their respective four overs had hampered Chennai Super

Kings’ chase as they had recovered from losing an early wicket to reach 78/1 in the 10th over.

Opener Devon Conway, who had struck Adam Zampa to two boundaries in the fifth over, and seasoned Ajinkya Rahane (31) had repaired the innings but things went downhill for CSK on their home ground after Ashwin had trapped Rahane in front to give Rajasthan Royals the much-needed breakthrough.

MonteCarlo:Djokovic,Zverevin3rdround

draw and earn his first ATP Tour win to advance to the second round. But Djokovic was playing his 1,254th tour-level match compared to Gakhov’s third, and that experience paid dividends in the critical moments.

MONTE CARLO, APR 12

(IANS): Novak Djokovic made a winning return to action as he fought his way into the third round of the Monte Carlo Masters with a 7-6(5), 6-2 win over Russian qualifier Ivan Gakhov. While Alexander Zverev continued to rebuild his confidence on clay with a 6-4 6-4 victory against Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters on Wednesday.

It was Djokovic’s first tournament in over a month as he was forced to miss the

Sunshine swing -- Indian Wells and Miami Open -both ATP 1000 masters events, after he was denied entry to the United States over his vaccination status.

After receiving a bye in the opening round, the World No. 1 faced a spirited challenge from World No. 198 Gakhov and was in danger of losing the opening set. But Djokovic navigated the big moments well to seal the win. Gakhov was the fourth alternate into the qualifying field and took full advantage of the opportunity to reach the main

The Serb is pursuing a record-extending 39th ATP Masters 1000 title this week and his third trophy in Monte-Carlo. The top seed will play an Italian in the third round -- Lorenzo Musetti or Luca Nardi.

The German 13th seed Zverev, who suffered a serious ankle injury in the French Open semi-final against Rafael Nadal last year, won his second match in as many days for his first steps on the red dirt since the Roland Garros drama.

Zverev broke for 3-2 in the opening set and held serve to take the lead in the contest, before breaking again in the fifth game of the second set.

Ashwin also got Shivam Dube (8 off 9) while Adam Zampa accounted for the dangerous Moeen Ali (7 off 10) and Chahal sent back Ambati Rayudu (1) as Chennai Super Kings slumped to 103/5. Chahal then claimed the prized wicket of Devon Conway (50), and Chennai Super Kings looked down and out.

However, skipper MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja struck some big blows as they pulled CSK to 40 runs

needed off the last two overs. Dhoni and Jadeja hammered Jason Holder for two sixes and a four as they raised 19 runs from the 19th over. With CSK needing 21 runs off the last over, Sandeep Sharma started with a couple of wides and then Dhoni smacked sixes off the next two deliveries off two low full-tosses and Chennai needed seven from three deliveries. He managed one run off the fourth delivery of the over and Jadeja could take a single off the fifth delivery, leaving it for Dhoni to get five runs off the last delivery to seal the victory. Sandeep Sharma bowled a superb yorker and Dhoni could manage only one run as Rajasthan Royals claimed a thrilling win. Brief scores:

Rajasthan Royals 175/8 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 52, Devdutt Padikkal 38, R Ashwin 30, Shimron Hetmyer 30 not out; Ravindra Jadeja 2-21, Tushar Deshpande 2-37, Akash Singh 2-40) beat Chennai Super Kings 172/6 in 20 overs (Devon Conway 50, Ajinkya Rahane 31, M.S Dhoni 32 not out, Ravindra Jadeja 25 not out; r Ashwin 2-25, Yuzvendra Chahal 2-27) by 3 runs.

Antim Panghal signs off with silver, four others win bronze

ASTANA, APR 12 (PTI): Young Antim Panghal signed off with a silver medal in her debut Asian Championships after going down to the formidable Akari Fujinami of Japan in the 53kg title clash while four other Indian wrestlers clinched bronze medals, here on Wednesday. Anshu Malik (57kg), Sonam Malik (62kg), Manisha (65kg) and Reetika (72kg) added to India’s medal rush, winning their bronze medal bouts. Panghal gave a good account of herself in tournament as she registered dominant wins to breeze into the summit clash. But Fujinami, the 2021 world champion and someone who has hardly lost a bout since she started competing at the senior level in 2020, put an end to her winning run. The 18-yearold Indian, competing in star Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s weight class, lost by technical superiority to the Japanese grappler.

The talented Anshu looked her formidable best as she won by technical superiority over Mongalian Erdenesuvd Bat Erdene to bag a bronze in the 57kg event. On the other hand, Sonam, who had lost in

the quarterfinal to Orkhon Purevdorj, bounced back into the competition after the Mongolian reached the final. She notched up a 5-1 win over China’s Xiaojuan Luo in her bronze medal bout. Reetika too won be a similar margin against Uzbek Svetlana Oknazarova, while Manisha recorded a victory by fall win over Albina Kairgeldinova of Kazakhstan.

Earlier Panghal, who last year became the first Indian woman wrestler to become U20 world champion, routed the 53kg field, not conceding a single point on the moves of her rivals. The only point she lost was through a caution

received in her semifinal against Uzbekistan’s Aktenge Keunimjaeva, whom she outclassed 8-1. Panghal got on board with a take-down move that she initiated with a left-leg attack. The Uzbeki had the Indian in head lock position a couple of times but on both occasions, not only Panghal wriggled out with consummate ease, she also employed counter attacks at a lightening pace to keep extending her lead. India now have 11 medals from the competition with Greco Roman wrestlers grabbing four of them. Nisha Dahiya (68kg) had won a silver and Priya (76kg) clinched a bronze on Tuesday.

Man City thrash Bayern 3-0 as Haaland reaches another milestone

MANCHESTER/LIS -

BON, APR 12 (AGENCIES/AP): Rodri struck a wonder goal and Erling Haaland set another scoring record as Manchester City beat Bayern Munich 3-0 on Tuesday to continue their quest for a first-ever Champions League title in their quarter-final first leg.

Haaland, who scored City’s third goal of the night in the 76th minute, has 45 goals in all competitions, a single-season record for a Premier League player, moving ahead of Mohamed Salah and Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Rodri put Pep Guardiola’s team ahead in the 27th minute, cutting the ball back to beat midfielder Jamal Musiala and curling a blistering long-range shot into the top left corner beyond the outstretched hand of Yann Sommer.

Rodri celebrated with a long knee slide on the

rain-soaked turf at the Etihad, while Bayern’s new manager Thomas Tuchel threw up his hands in disgust en route to his team’s biggest defeat in the Champions League since a 3-0 loss to Paris St Germain in 2017. What had been an

evenly matched game turned thoroughly in City’s favour midway through the second half, and Bernardo Silva scored their second in the 70th minute, heading in a cross from Haaland. The Norwegian got a goal of his own six minutes later, striking from close range.

Sommer had a busy night and was pressed into action early, almost gifting Haaland a goal in the 14th minute. Taking too long to clear the ball, the striker bulldozed in and got his foot on the ball two yards from the net, but it flew wide.

City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan had a brilliant chance in the 34th minute, but Sommer, who was on the ground, stuck a leg out to save what looked like a certain goal.

Ruben Dias’s flick in the second half looked bound for the net, but Sommer tipped it over the crossbar. However, he was helpless to stop Silva and then Haaland from completing the win.

Inter wins 2-0 at

Benficainquarters

Inter Milan got back to winning when it mattered the most. Benfica’s

poor run came at the worst time. Inter ended its sixmatch winless streak with a 2-0 win at Benfica in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals on Tuesday, moving into good position to reach the last four of the European competition for the first time in more than a decade. It was Inter’s first win in more than a month and Benfica’s second loss in a row after an unbeaten run that included 13 wins in 15 matches in all competitions. Benfica was coming off a loss to archrival Porto in the Portuguese league at the weekend.

Nicolo Barella and Romelu Lukaku scored second-half goals for Inter at the Stadium of Light. The second leg will be next week in Milan. It was Benfica’s first Champions League loss in 13 matches this season.

Novak Djokovic

Antim Panghal

Alexander Zverev

Manchester City’s Erling Braut Haaland celebrates scoring their third goal. (Reuters)

Rajasthan Royals players celebrate the wicket of Chennai Super Kings batter Ajinkya Rahane during the IPL match in Chennai, Wednesday. (PTI)