25 June by Nagaland Post

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 199

DIMAPUR, FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021 Pages 12 ` 5.00

30 Myanmar troops killed in Sagaing clashes

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international, Page 9

Euro 2020: France, Portugal, Germany through to knockouts stage sports, Page 12

J&K to become State again ‘at right time’: PM Says, Assembly polls in J-K after delimitation NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (AGENCIES): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a 3-hour meeting with political leaders of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), spoke about removing “Dilli ki Doori as well as Dil Ki Doori” and assured his commitment to restoring full statehood at the right time. According to official sources, the main focus of the meeting was to strengthen the democratic process and the prime minister said that the government was fully committed to it. This is the first interaction between the central leadership and the mainstream parties since August 5, 2019, when the Centre revoked J&K’s special status under Article 370 of the Constitution and bifurcated it into union territories, J&K, and Ladakh. Modi stressed that holding assembly elections, just like the successful con-

Modi with various political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, in Delhi on Thursday.

duct of the District Development Council polls, is a priority and that the polls can happen soon after the delimitation exercise, the sources said. The prime minister stressed that an atmosphere of safety and security needs to be ensured for all sections of society in J&K, according to the sources. During the meeting, almost all the 14 leaders from J&K demanded that its statehood, which was removed in August 2019, should be restored, he said. The four former chief ministers of the erstwhile state who participated in the discussions were Farooq Abdullah and his son Omar

Abdullah of the National Conference (NC), Congress’ Ghulam Nabi Azad and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Lieutenant Governor of J&K Manoj Sinha, and Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh were in attendance too. Today’s dialogue came seven months after the District Development Council (DDC) elections in J&K. Talking to reporters after the meeting, NC leader Omar Abdullah said both Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah assured that they were com-

Delta variant now reported in 85 countries Expected to become dominant lineage, says WHO U N I T E D NAT I O N S, JUN 24 (PTI): The Delta variant, the significantly more transmissible strain of COVID-19, is expected to become a “dominant lineage” if current trends continue, the WHO has warned after it was reported in 85 countries and continues to be detected in more places around the world. The COVID-19 Weekly Epidemiological Update released on June 22 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) said that globally, the variant Alpha has been reported in 170 countries, territories or areas, Beta in 119 countries, Gamma in 71 countries and Delta in 85 countries. “Delta, now reported in 85 countries globally, continues to be reported in new countries across all WHO Regions, 11 of which were newly reported in the past two weeks,” the update said. WHO said the four current ‘Variants of Concern’ being monitored closely – Alpha, Beta, Gamma and

This is it!

“Sorry, we have no home delivery service for cement, rods or other hardware items.” K Y M C

Delta - are widespread and have been detected in all WHO regions. “The Delta variant is significantly more transmissible than Alpha variant, and is expected to become a dominant lineage if current trends continue.” The update said that India reported the highest numbers of new COVID19 cases, 441,976 over the past week (June 14-20, 2021), a 30 per cent decrease as compared to the previous week. The highest numbers of new deaths were reported from India (16,329 new deaths; 1.2 new deaths per 100,000; a 31 per cent decrease). The South-East Asia Re g ion r e po r te d ove r 600,000 new cases and over 19,000 new deaths, a 21 per cent and a 26 per cent decrease respectively compared to the previous week. “Decreasing trends in weekly case and death incidence in the Region are predominantly associated with decreases reported in India,” the update said. WHO noted that since the last detailed update on June 8, new evidence has been published on the phenotypic characteristics of the Delta variant. “A study from Singapore showed

that infection with Delta variant was associated with higher odds of oxygen requirement, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, or death,” it said. Further, a study in Japan “estimating the relative instantaneous reproductive number (a measure of transmission at a specific point in time) showed that the Delta variant was associated with greater transmissibility” when compared to the Alpha variant. “When compared with the variants circulating in Japan before December 2020, the relative instantaneous reproduction number for Alpha was estimated to be at 1.56 and for Delta 1.78. Overall, this study showed Delta was associated with 1.23 times higher transmissibility than Alpha,” the update said. The update also took note of two studies that have provided evidence of the effectiveness of Pfizer BioNTech-Comirnaty and AstraZeneca-Vaxzevria vaccines against the Delta variant. One study reports on the effectiveness of these vaccines against severe disease (hospitalisation) due to Delta among persons over the age of 16 years in the United Kingdom.

mitted to the restoration of J&K’s statehood. The central leadership wanted to hold the assembly elections immediately after the delimitation commission submits its report but senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad urged the prime minister to restore full statehood before conducting the polls, he said. He said that his party president Farooq Abdullah said during the meeting that there was an urgent need to rebuild trust in J&K. He said that even the central leadership was of the view the government could not be run by bureaucrats and that a political government needs to take charge.

State logs 88 fresh Covid-19 positive cases; 2 deaths DIMAPUR, JUN 24 (NPN): Nagaland on Thursday registered 88 fresh Covid-19 positive cases while two more patients succumbed to the infection. Of the fresh cases, 36 cases were from Kohima, 11 each from Dimapur, Mokokchung and Peren, Zunheboto-9, Tuensang-7 and three in Mon, taking the total caseload to 24629. Further, the state also recorded one fatality each in Kohima and Zunheboto, pushing the death toll to 479 (including 14 non-Covid deaths but with Covid positivity).

Omar Abdullah said, “Our party president has made it clear that as and when an invite for the (delimitation) commission meeting will come, we will take consider it.” Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad told reporters that he put forward various points on behalf of his party in the meeting, which included restoration of complete statehood, followed by elections. “I have also asked for a rehabilitation process for Kashmir Pandits, release of political prisoners, and domicile rules whereby the Centre guarantees jobs for the people of J&K,” Azad told reporters. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti told reporters that the meeting went off well and that she has complimented the prime minister for initiating backchannel talks with Pakistan that led to the ceasefire agreement at the LoC and decrease in infiltration levels. “I have requested the prime minister that, if need be, we could talk to Pakistan once again for further boosting the peace process,” she said.

NPF asks Governor to order investigation on irregularities DIMAPUR, JUN 24 (NPN): NPF Legislature Party (NPFLP) Thursday called on Nagaland Governor, R.N. Ravi and submitted representation, urging the latter to consider setting up of an independent probe into various alleged irregularities under the ruling NDPP-led PDA coalition government headed by chief minister Neiphiu Rio. In a lengthy representation, signed by NPF Legislature Party leader T.R. Zeliang, spokesperson Imkong L. Imchen, Yitachu, Dr. Chumben Murry, Y.M. Yollow Konyak and Kezhienyi Khalo, the opposition listed several instances of alleged irregularities and mismanagement by the NDPP-led PDA, to justify demand for an independent probe. The NPF cited the “procurement of sub-standard materials to fight Covid-19” also highlighted in the local media last year. Fur ther, NPF also mentioned that the PDA government had ordered 15% pro rata cut from all non-developmental funds across all departments for 2020-21. It said the same was being implemented for 2021-

22 with a further increase of 20% pro rata. NPF also cited decision to allot Rs.30 crore for a 200-bedded makeshift Covid hospital under CIHSR (a private hospital. It said when district and rural health centres across Nagaland were neglected and in poor condition, the PDA government was interested only in lucrative deals for personal gain. NPF also claimed that the state’s proposed technofeasibility report for an alternative Greenfield airport at Ruzhephema under Dimapur district was approved by the Airport Authority Of India after due aerial and land/ ground survey. However, while the process for land acquisition was underway and finalized, the present chief minister diverted it to Chiethu at Chiechama under his constituency. NPF said land was purchased at Chiethu in 2009 measuring 645.2 acres for Rs.8,06,50,000 by flouting official procedures. An additional area of 368.52 acres was again purchased at the rate of Rs.2.60 lakh per acre totaling Rs.9,58,15,200. It claimed that the payment was made in July 2020

Notify assessment scheme for Cl 12 in 10 days: SC to state boards NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (IANS): Supreme Court on Thursday directed the state boards to notify their respective assessment schemes for Class 12 students within 10 days, after the cancellation of physical examination, and also declare results before July 31. A bench comprising Justices A.M. Khanwilkar and Dinesh Maheshwari said: “We direct all the State Boards to ensure that the Schemes are formulated and notified at the earliest and not later than 10 days from today and also declare the results of internal assess-

when the state was passing through financial crisis and unable to pay salaries of employees while tackling Covid pandemic. NPF also said the foundation stone for Medical College at Phriebagei, Kohima with an estimate of Rs. 189 crores under a 90:10 share between Centre and state remains inoperative. Though it was expected to enroll its first batch of students in 2018it was now extended to 2022-23. NPF also accused the PDA minister of misleading the house during the February 2020 session whenhe informed the house that Rs.113 crore was released. NPF also said the Cricket Stadium at Sovima had an estimate of Rs.25 crore but jumped to Rs.75 crore and still not fully complete even after 15 years. NPF alleged that the land was supposedly donated but sold for Rs.35 per sq feet when the prevailing rate then was only Rs.11 per sq.ft. It also mentioned about the still incomplete Multi-Disciplinary Sports Centre (Stadium) near DC Court Area which is also languishing without any progress.

Petrol price close to `100 mark in State’s 4 districts

ment by July 31, which is the time-line specified for CBSE and ICSE.” In its order, the top court said: “In addition, the Scheme must provide for a proper mechanism for redressal of dispute or grievances of the students after declaration of results, as has been done in the case of CBSE and ICSE Boards.” The bench also emphasized that as per its previous observation there is no possibility of having a uniform assessment scheme for all boards across the country. The bench said: “We are not going to direct uniform

scheme, as each board is auPetrol Diesel City per litre per litre tonomous and different.” The top court added, Dmu Rs.96.41 Rs.90.42 “However, we further make Kma Rs.97.36 Rs.91.81 it clear that we are not en- Tsg Rs.99.53 Rs.93.18 dorsing the correctness and Mon Rs.99.09 Rs.92.81 validity of the proposed Kiphire Rs.99.45 Rs.93.15 Schemes, to be so formulatRs.98.84 Rs.92.54 ed by the concerned Boards. Phek That will be considered on Llng Rs. 98.60 Rs.92.44 its own merits, if and when Mkg Rs.98.56 Rs.92.30 occasion arises.” Wka Rs.98.00 Rs.91.78 On June 22, the Centre Zbto Rs.98.84 Rs.92.50 told the Supreme Court that there cannot be any Peren Rs.96.74 Rs.90.72 uniform assessment policy Noklak Rs.99.30 Rs.93.09 for all board examinations, DIMAPUR, JUN 24 which include those of the (NPN): Petrol price in NaCBSE, the ICSE and the galand’s four districts (Tustate boards. ensang, Mon, Kiphire and Noklak) neared Rs.100mark a litre on Thursday after state-owned oil marketing companies increased the fuel prices again after a day’s pause. According to a price notification of state-owned OMCs, the price of petrol was hiked by 26 paise per litre and that of diesel by 27 paise a litre. The increase took rates of two auto fuels to fresh highs across the country. The hike on Thursday is the 29th increase in prices since May 4. In 29 hikes, the price of petrol has risen by Rs 7.36 per litre and Protesters holding a banner during the rally. diesel by Rs 7.77 a litre.

Protest rally against sexual assault on minor

DIMAPUR, JU 24 (NPN): Citizens of Langmeing staged a protest rally against the alleged sexual assault on a 15-year-old minor girl near Aboi town on June 20. The protesters demanded strong action against the six culprits, claiming that all the accused were adults and should not be booked under Juvenile Justice Act. Protesters were seen holding placards/banners that read: “If biased justice (Cont’d on p-8) is delivered, we will take

law in our own hands”, “No duplication of culprit age” etc. Addl SP and PRO Mon police on Wednesday said that the six accused had sexually assaulted the minor at a place located above Tapi bridge under Mon district. All the accused have been booked under various sections of the IPC including section 4/8 POCSO Act and investigation was under progress.

Mysteriously deleted Wuhan Covid-19 gene sequences found: report New Delhi, JUN 24 (AGENCIES): A researcher from Seattle in the US has recovered deleted files from Google Cloud that reveal 13 early coronavirus sequences, for some of the earliest Covid-19 cases in Wuhan, reports ThePrint. About a year ago, genetic sequences from more than 200 virus samples from Wuhan’s early cases of Covid-19 disappeared from an American online database, where they were stored on the request of Chinese researchers, US of-

ficials have confirmed. In a statement Wednesday, the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) said the data that was initially submitted to the US-based Sequence Read Archive in March 2020 was requested to be withdrawn by the same researchers three months later in June last year. The NIH also said the researchers had asked for the data to be removed to avoid “version control issues”. “Submitting investigators hold the rights to their data and can request

withdrawal of the data,” the agency said. The NIH statement came a day after Jesse Bloom, virologist at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, released a report on the discovery of missing genetic sequences. ‘241 missing genetic sequences’: In his report released Tuesday, Bloom asserted that a team of Chinese researchers sampled the viruses from some of the first Covid-19 patients in Wuhan and posted the sequences on an US database, but these

were later deleted to “obscure their existence”. “It seems likely that the sequences were deleted to obscure their existence,” Bloom wrote in the report, which is yet to be peerreviewed or published in a scientific journal. The virologist claimed to have stumbled upon the missing data in the online database while reviewing genetic data published by different groups. Bloom came across a March 2020 spreadsheet that included information on 241

genetic sequences collected at Wuhan University, and indicated that they were uploaded to the US managed database — Sequence Read Archive. But when he looked for the Wuhan sequences, the search result returned a message that read: “no items found”. The spreadsheet indicated that 241 sequences were collected from Renmin Hospital in Wuhan by a scientist, Aisi Fu. Bloom then found a study posted by Fu and his colleagues on medRxiv

in early March of 2020, which was also published in a scientific journal later in June 2020. Scientists part of this study said they looked at 45 nasal swab samples taken from “outpatients with suspected Covid-19 early in the epidemic”, but researchers didn’t publish the actual gene sequences but only some mutations in the viruses. However, the report received criticism as many claimed the data has actually been publicly available all along.

Virus was circulating before 2019?: While the Joe Biden administration has been trying to ascertain the origins of Covid19, Bloom’s study doesn’t strengthen or undermines the theory that it leaked out of a Wuhan lab. China has vehemently denied that the virus leaked from a lab. The new report suggests the virus may have been circulating in Wuhan before the initial outbreaks in 2019 that have been linked to animal and seafood mar(Cont’d on p-8) kets. K Y M C

ANSU reaches out to student community

state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

NEWS IN BRIEF

Tuensang DPDB meeting: Tuensang Dis-

trict Planning and Development Board (DPDB) has convened its monthly meeting on June 29, 11 a.m. at the Conference Hall of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Tuensang. All DPDB members have been requested to attend the meeting.

DEF Peren informs: In commemora-

ANSU Tening members assisting students.

DIMAPUR: All Nchang ram Students’ Union (ANSU), Tening, Peren while affirming to be “an agent of voluntarism” has been lending helping hand to studentswithin the Nchangram village by assisting them in their studies. In a press release, ANSU president KibouwiZeliang and vice president TingwangsiNewmaisaid the drive was initiated to reach out to those students who are unable to prepare for

their first quarterly examination as they have limited or no access to study materials. ANSU said many students are without personal smart phones to get access to study materials and question papers provided virtually by their respective schools. “At times, due to communication gap, some of the students are failing themselves to attend their weekly tests/monthly tests/ quarterly examinations”,

ANSU stated. The union informed that starting June 22 onwards it has begun to provide free tuitions to students studying in LKG to Class X. In this regard, the union has encouraged its federating units to assist the students within its respective jurisdiction while strictly adhering to COVID-19 protocols. ANSU asked its units to guide and motivate the students during these challenging circumstances.

tion of “International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, 2021”, District Executive Force (DEF) Peren would be organising an online antidrug slogan competition under the theme, “share facts on drugs, save lives” on June 26. All citizens and police personnel of Peren district have been urged to participate in the competition. Interested participants have been asked to submit the slogan to the office through e-mail - prnslogancompetiton@gmail.com or WhatsApp No. 7005914817 in Jpf/Pdf format latest by June 25.

CIH Nagaland conducts virtual training government of India, Dr. S. K. Malhotraemphasised on taking up scientific production of these crops and to promote post-harvest management of these crops for betterment of farmers in north east region with adoption of development schemes being implemented in the region. Various aspects on production technology and post-harvest management of crops like kiwi, plum, cardamom and other important spice crops were covered during the training session. The lectures and interactive session on production technology of kiwi

and plum crops were covered during first day programme by scientists of Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan. Training on status and scope of spice crops in north east region was delivered by director, directorate of Arecanut and Spices Development, Calicut, Dr. Homey Cheriyan. Scientist, ICAR-Nagaland Centre, Dr. AzezeSeyie gave a presentation on pest and disease management in large cardamom while post-harvest management and value addition of plum and kiwi was covered by post-har-

vest technologist, CIH, Nagaland, Vinika Aomi. In his concluding remark, additional commissioner and director in-charge CIH, Dr. N.K. Patleen couraged all the participants to practically implement the technologies they have learned during the training programme. The release informed that 100 participants comprising of horticulture officers, scientists, KVK field functionaries from Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh actively participated and interacted with subject expert.

DP-2877

DIMAPUR: Two-day virtual training on “production technology and post-harvest management of horticulture crops” was organised for extension functionaries on June 2324 by Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH) Nagaland. A press release by CIH Nagaland informed that the training was organised with a view to consider potential and to increase production and productivity of temperate and spices crops in north east region. In his inaugural speech, agriculture and horticulture commissioner,

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Surely your goodness and love shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:6

We, the family members of Lt. Akuto L Sema would like to express our sincere gratitude to all who comforted us through prayers, physical presence, deeds and condolence messages. As we prepare our grieving hearts to overcome this huge loss in our lives, our prayers that the Almighty God blesses each one of you abundantly . We are indeed blessed to see that he had touched the lives of so many people from different walks of life.

Dearest IPU We shall forever miss you but till we meet again stay safe in the arms of God. 02-05-1948 to 17-06-2021

Loving Wife, Children, Grandchildren, Great Grand Child and Relatives

DP-2891 K

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is there transparency in the process of govt financial aid to daily wage earners? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

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A B C

Agri department officers inspect ongoing projects

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

16% 78% 6%

Next poll Q: Are internet service

providers in Nagaland giving good service?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST June 25

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala A morning shower in spots

32 26

Aizawl

Occasional morning rain

29 20

Guwahati Mostly cloudy with a t-storm 32 25 Imphal

A stray thunderstorm

30 21

Itanagar A t-storm around in the a.m.

30 24

Shillong A thunderstorm in spots

25 19

Cloudy with a t-storm or two

24 18

Dimapur A t-storm around in the p.m.

33 24

Kohima

A stray afternoon t-storm

27 19

Tuensang Couple of thunderstorms

20 16

Mkg Wokha

A p.m. t-storm in spots

Zunheboto Cloudy with a thunderstorm

27 21 24 17

APC Kikheto Sema and others during the site visit. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) Nagaland Y.Kikheto Sema and Superintendent Engineer (Agri), Er. Achakbou Newmai Thursday inspected ongoing projects at Agri Expo Site, 4th Mile, Dimapur. According to DIPR report, inspecting the ongoing construction of community marketing complex, Sema said organic agri and allied products of Nagaland would be available in the Hall measuring approximately 125x80 feet comprising of 66 different stalls. He said the primary aim of the government was to provide an organised market for the local entrepreneurs, who are willing to sell their products by paying nominal rent. The APC said through the facil-

ity, the department was expecting to create 140 direct and indirect employment opportunities for the unemployed youth. Pointing out that organic vegetables was hugely marketable in Dimapur, he said organic vegetables grown in other parts of the state must reach Dimapur. With increase in production, he said importing vegetables from outside could be gradually restricted. The officers visited the 100bedded farmers’ hostel which is being constructed under RKVVY additional fund through the initiative of minister for Agriculture, Kaito Aye. They also visited the Organic AC Market of Nagaland State Agricultural Marketing Board (NSAMB).

St John College launches ‘twowheeler club’

DIMAPUR: Commemorating “World Motorcycle Day”, St John College, Dimapur launched its “two-wheeler club” on June 21 under the banner, “every ride is a tiny holiday”. In a press release, the college informed that a brief virtual programme was organised with founding member and president of Nagaland Motorcycle Club Kohima, Peter Rutsa as guest speaker. Rutsa appreciated the college for launching the club and also advised the students to wear proper gears and to be cautious while riding two wheelers. Club coordinator, assistant professor (political science),Anato G. Swu informed the participants that the club was formed to provide a platform for students to enhance their personal and social skills. He said the club would provide opportunities to students to enjoy their college life while giving equal importance to their studies. Principal of the college, S. T. Jenetius shared his experiences with motorcycles while encouraging the students and faculty to be a part of the club. Earlier during the programme, invocation was pronounced by Mhonbemo M Kikon, vote of thanks was delivered by Arenpola and benediction by ThiuthiuboPama.

CRIME BEAT

Security forces apprehend one NSCN (I-M) member

DIMAPUR: Security forces, in joint operation with police, apprehended an active cadre of NSCN (I-M) on June 22 at Burma Camp area, Dimapur. According to PRO HQ IGAR (N), based on specific input, security forces in a joint operation with state police, apprehended the cadre who was involved in “supplying arms and ammunition”. PRO said one point 22 Pistol and three point 22 live ammunition was recovered during the operation. The apprehended individual along with recovered items had been handed over to East Police Station, Dimapur for further investigation, informed PRO.

State

Security forces nab 11

DIMAPUR: Based on specific input, security forces in joint operation with police, apprehended seven active cadres and four “over ground workers of Nikki Sumi group” on June 23 at Thilixu Village area, Dimapur. In a press release, PIB (Defence Wing) informed that the arrested persons were running and carrying out extortion activities in National Highway. PIB informed that three point 32 pistols with magazines, 25 point 32 live ammunition and some incriminating documents were recovered during the operation. The apprehended individuals along with recovered items have been handed over to Diphupar Police Stationfor further investigation, informed the release.

Mkg DPDB discusses dev, health issues

Members of Mokokchung DPDB Thursday at District Planning Hall, Mokokchung. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Mokokchung District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) which met Thursday at District Planning Hall, Mokokchung under the chairmanship of minister, mechanical & housing, Tongpang Ozukum primarily deliberated on vital issues pertaining to development and health sectors. According to DIPR report, the house discussed the land issue for upgradation of power house at Salangtem Ward and agreed to send a proposal to the department. On dismantling the p r e s e n t L aw C o l l e g e, Mokokchung building and shifting it to an alternative location, the house decided to complete the shifting at the earliest and complete

the development of the new Deputy Commissioner office. The house also deliberated on Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC) dumping site and agreed to upgrade and develop the site. Mokokchung DPDB chairman proposed construction of Mokokchung Town ring road to bypass the main town as development activities are growing overnight and as a result, traffic concession has become a major problem. The house also forwarded the Local Area Development Plan (LADP) proposal for 2021- 2022. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Mokokchung, Dr. Chubala Aier updated the members on the status

of COVID-19 in the district and requirement for Mokokchung district health facilities. She highlighted the need to update the Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in the district starting from district COVID Hospital. The house agreed to maintain two power generators in the hospital and to provide at least one oxymeters to every village. The house also resolved to deduct 10% amount from LADP fund as per the directive of the government and hand over the amount to COVID District Task force (DTF) for COVID expenses in the district. On report of shortfall of drivers at DCs office, the house agreed to approach the appropriate authority.

More condemn sexual assault on minor

DIMAPUR: More organisations have condemned the June 20 sexual assault on a 15-year-old girl by six youngsters in Mon district. LSU: Longwa Students Union said it vehemently condemn the inhumane and barbaric act and added that such act was not acceptable in any society. In a condemnation note, LSU appealed every right-thinking citizen and civil societies to condemn the anti-social behaviour and added that such kind

of social evil should not be tolerated under any circumstances. LSU also urged the competent authority to deliver justice and award stringent punishment to all the culprits. KNSK: Konyak Nyupuh Sheko Khong while vehemently condemning the sexual assault said the crime was not only committed against the victim and her family but against the womenfolk and the society. In a condemnation note,

KNSK said the incident has tarnished the good image of the Konyak society reflecting the insecure life of a women even in their own kitchen. KNSK has appealed the law enforcing agencies for an in-depth investigation of the case. It has urged that the culprits be awarded befitting punishment as per the law of the land and that justice was delivered to the victim in particular and the womenfolk in general. P WYAT: P i nkho ng

Ward Youth Aboi Town has strongly condemned the sexual assault and added that such inhumane act cannot be tolerated in a “highly civilized society”. In a condemnation note, Pinkhong Ward Youth Aboi Town has called upon all like minded citizens to condemn such acts and also appealed to the law enforcing agencies to impose befitting punishment to the six accused as per the law and deliver justice to the victim at the earliest.

2 villages claim100% vax; DoHFW concerned over reluctance in some districts

A beneficiary being vaccinated at Khensa village.

DIMAPUR: As Health a n d F a m i l y We l f a r e (H&FW) continues vaccination drive across the state, many villages have claimed to achieved 100 percent vaccination of the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. The respective district administrations and sub-divisions are also distributing relief materials primarily to the daily wage earners. Meanwhile, reluctance of people to come forward for testing, vaccination and treatment have raised concerns in some districts. Khensa village & Salulamang village claim 100% vaccination: Khensa village of Mokokchung district under Ongpangkong South block has achieved 100 percent first dose of COVID-19 vaccination of all its eligible population. A press release by the village council stated that the 100 percent vaccination was achieved through proper coordination between the council and Nagaland Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) Ongpangkong South Block and K Y M C

Department of Health and Family Welfare, Mokokchung. The village council said 40% of the population had already been vaccinated prior to the special convergence intervention by NSRLM and department. It informed that 313 eligible beneficiaries took the jab during the first phase on June 17 and another 255 eligible beneficiaries got vaccinated on June 22. Meanwhile, NSRLMRD Block Mokokchung with department of Health and Family Welfare carried out 100 percent COVID-19 vaccination drive Thursday at Salulamang Village wherein all 18 years and above beneficiaries were vaccinated. Sensitisation on COVID-19 to ramp up vaccination: In order to ramp up vaccination of all eligible persons, Additional Deputy Commissioner ( AD C ) a nd c ha ir m a n SDTF Tening, Rosietho Nguori said the administration and medical department Tening would

Use of PPE being demonstrated at Pfutseromi.

DC Tuensang handing over relief package. (DIPR)

Relief packages being distributed at Pughoboto. (DIPR)

be organising sensitisation programme on COVID-19 and management in all the villages under Tening and Nsong circles. In this regard, all concerned village authorities have been requested to facilitate the visiting officials in their respective villages. Further, the village authorities have been requested to ensure the attendance of all the village task force members and pastors in the village and village council members during the programme. Noklak medical deptt. expresses concern: Doctors and staff of Community Health Centre (CHC) Noklak have expressed concern that many people are reluctant to avail proper medical advice fearing testing of COVID-19. The medical team said many are choosing to stay home, without proper medical treatment, though their ailments may not be related to COVID-19. According to DIPR report, the medical team has sought to disseminate information to public

sensitisation campaign on COVID-19 appropriate behaviour and lockdown measures was held on June 20 at Pfutseromi, Lekromi, Zapami and Leshemi villages. Special vaccination drive held in Longleng: A special vaccination drive for shopkeepers and helpers, drivers, coolies and their family members was organised by the medical department Longleng in collaboration with District Task Force (DTF) Longleng Thursday at Public Ground, Longleng. According to DIPR report, speaking at the programme, Deputy Commissioner (DC) and chairman DTF Longleng, M. Shayung Phom lauded the medical department for organising the drive adding that the department’s sincerity and hard work has enabled vaccination drives across the district. He said such programmes would encourage the people to come forward to vaccinate. Phom also requested the medical department to compile the necessary information regarding

Public education campaign at Phusachodu village: Public education campaign and hands on training on dead body management, use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and lockdown measures was held on June 23 at Phusachodu village, Phek. According to DIPR report, the campaign was held in the presence of ChotisuhSazo, MLA, and was led by ADC Pfutsero, SMO and MO CHC Pfutsero. All the villages and towns under Pfutsero Sub-Division, Pfutseromi, Phusachodu, Leshami, Lewoza, Zuketsa, Zapami, Lasumi, Chizami, Sakraba Town, Gidemi, Pholami, Porba, Upper Khomi, Middle Khomi and Lower Khomiwere covered under the campaign. Training for volunteers at Shamator: Medical department organised one day training on how to handle emergency cases during pandemic was held for volunteers at Shamator. The volunteers were

the difference between COVID-19 related health issues and other disease. The team said that diseases such as Scrub typhus (which may lead to loss of consciousness or uncontrolled fever and even kidney failure), typhoid (which may also lead to serious complications) and hypertension (which may lead to lead to stroke), could be life threatening if not properly treated on time. The medical team feared that many casualties may have been caused due to negligence on the part of the patients. Therefore, the medical team has urged the public to come forward and get proper consultation anytime from the following medical team: Dr. Benjung Lam (9612373877/ 6 0 0 9 1 9 3 9 4 0 ) , D r. Chongy (7905581347/ 7 0 8 5 5 9 8 1 9 2 ) a n d D r. Chongkoi (7692840195). Vaccination drive & sensitisation at Pfutsero: Vaccination drive, hands-on-training on dead body management and use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), public

COVID-19 awareness or vaccination in bulletin or voice message and spread it through social media so that it could reach the citizens. He also urged all public to grasp the opportunity and get vaccinated. SP Longleng, Yanithungalso debunked myths relating to COVID-19 vaccine and urged the people to come forward and get vaccinated. He also warned against stigmatisation against COVID patients. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Longleng, Dr.Obangjungla said the special vaccination drive was organised to encourage people to come forward and get vaccinated. DC Tuensang distributes relief packages: Deputy Commissioner (DC) and chairman, DTF Tuensang, Kumar RamnikantThursday distributed relief packages to daily wage earners. The Relief packages on account of COVID pandemic lockdown was arranged by District Disaster Management Authority, Tuensang.

selected from every ward/ colony to assist sub-division Covid task force for welfare of the people. Assam Rifles Mokokchung donates blood: Mokokchung Battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) assisted District Hospital, Mokokchung by donating blood in its bit to combat shortfall of life saving blood, for its patients due to COVID-19 pandemic. According to Assam Rifles, the battalion acted at the behest of civil administration and troops volunteered enthusiastically for the valuable contribution. PHC Satoi receives ambulance: Primary Health Centre (PHC) Satoi received an ambulance which was launched Thursday at the Centre premises. In a press release, Ikiye-Itovi Youth Front (IIYF) claimed that the ambulance was received from the state government after the front submitted a representation for the same through the medical department. K Y M C

northeast

Second body fished out of M’laya mine Correspondent

SHILLONG, JUN 24 : The Indian Navy on Thursday pulled out a second body from the 500 feet deep flooded coal pit at Krem Ule, Umpleng area in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district where three miners still remain trapped since May 30, an official said. The Indian Navy divers were assisted by the National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force, State Fire and Emergency Services and officials from the East Jaintia Hills district in the rescue efforts. “The deep divers of the Indian Navy have pulled out another highly decomposed unidentified body to the water surface from 120 feet below and then taken out the body in a buckettype container to the higher grounds this afternoon,” a rescue official said. The rescue official said the recovered body was detected with the help of a ROV SONAR system. This is the second body to be pulled out of the coal mine – 26 days after five

File photo of a rescue operation in progress migrant coal miners were trapped inside the rat-hole coal pit - by the Indian Navy divers after they retrieved the first unidentified body on June 16. Interestingly, none of the family members of the trapped miners have come forward to identify the body which is lying at the Khliehriat morgue. The trapped miners had been identified as Anowarul Islam Bharbhuiya of Assam’s Cachar district and Abdul Shukkur of

Assam’s Karimganj district, Abdul Karim of Assam’s Boko, Abdul Kalam of Assam’s Barpeta district and ShyamcharanDebbarma of Tripura. Six other migrant miners from Assam managed to escape the tragedy and they were later escorted by Meghalaya police to their respective homes in Assam. Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills district, Ethelbert Kharmalki said an inquest of the second body has been conducted

NE COVID-19 UPDATE 226 new cases push Mizoram’s COVID-19 tally to 18,624 Aizawl, Jun 24 (PTI): The COVID-19 caseload in Mizoram mounted to 18,624 on Thursday as 226 more people, including 19 prisoners, tested positive for the disease, an official said. The death toll rose to 86 as one more fatality due to the infection was reported in the last 24 hours, he said. Nineteen prisoners of Aizawl Central Jail, 54 chil-

M’laya logs 420 new COVID-19 cases, 10 fresh fatalities

Shillong, Jun 24 ( P T I ) : M e g h a l aya ’s COVID-19 tally rose to 46,878 on Thursday as 420 more people tested positive for the infection, while 10 fresh fatalities pushed the northeastern state’s coronavirus death toll to 807, a senior health official said. As many as 298 more people were cured of the disease, taking the total number of recoveries to 41,647, Health Services Director Aman War said. East Khasi Hills district, of which Shillong is a part, registered the highest number of fresh cases at 126, followed by Ri-Bhoi (58) and West Jaintia Hills (54), he said. Seven fresh fatalities were registered in East Khasi Hills district, two in West Jaintia Hills and one in East Garo Hills district. The nor theaster n state now has 4,424 active cases. Meghalaya has tested over 6.68 lakh samples for COVID-19 so far, he said. A total of 6.29 lakh people have been inoculated to date, War added.

dren, two frontline workers and a Border Security Force employee are among the new patients, the official said. There are currently 160 coronavirus patients in the central jail, he said. Six new patients have travel history. The northeastern state now has 4,442 active cases, and 14,096 people have recovered from the disease. The recover y rate

among coronavirus patients in the state stands at 75.68 per cent. Mizoram has so far conducted over 4.65 lakh sample tests for COVID-19, including 3,136 on Wednesday. State Immunisation Officer Dr Lalzawmi said over 4.37 lakh people have been inoculated till Wednesday, with 53,892 of them having received both doses of the vaccine.

Arunachal reports 252 new COVID-19 cases, tally at 33,916

Itanagar, Jun 24 (PTI): At least 252 more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Arunachal Pradesh, pushing the tally in the state to 33,916, a health department official said on Thursday. The death toll remained at 160 as no new fatality due to the infection was reported in the past 24 hours, the SSO said. Of the fresh cases, 238 were detected through rapid antigen tests and seven each through RT-PCR and TrueNat methods. At least 233 patients were cured of the disease on Wednesday, taking the total number of recover-

ies in the state to 31,189, Jampa said. The recover y rate among coronavirus patients in the state stands at 91.96 per cent. Arunachal Pradesh now has 2,567 active cases. Altogether, 7,32,078 samples have been tested for COVID-19 in the state so far, including 5,273 on Wednesday, Jampa said, adding that the positivity rate stands at 4.77 per cent. State Immunisation Officer Dr Dimong Padung said that 5,21,760 people have been inoculated since the beginning of the vaccination drive in January.

Sikkim reports 92 new COVID19 cases, 2 fresh fatalities

Gangtok, Jun 24 (PTI): Sikkim’s COVID-19 tally rose to 19,681 on Thursday as 92 more people tested positive for the infection, while two fresh fatalities pushed the Himalayan state’s coronavirus death toll to 298, a health bulletin said. East Sikkim district registered the highest number of new cases at 52, followed by West Sikkim (25), South Sikkim (14) and North Sikkim (1). The Himalayan state now has 2,282 active cases, while 16,850 people have recovered from the disease, and 251 patients have migrated to other states so far. The state’s positivity rate stands at 14.1 per cent, while the recovery rate among the coronavirus patients has increased to 85.6 per cent, it said. Sikkim has tested over 1.58 lakh samples for COVID-19 thus far, including 652 in the last 24 hours.

by the Executive Magistrate at the spot and the body has been transported to the Community Health Centre morgue at Khliehriat for autopsy. “The relatives of the victims from Cachar, Barpeta and Kamrup (Rural), Assam and Kailashahar, North Tripura District has been informed through their respective Superintendent to Police by WT message to inform the immediate family members of the victims trapped in the coal mine to

identify the retrieved bodies,” he said. Meanwhile, during the dewatering process about 5.6 lakh liters of water has been pumped out from shaft No. 1 and about 12.15 lakh liters of water has also been pumped out from the shaft No. 2, he informed. Earlier, Meghalaya police had arrested Shining Langstang, the current owner of the illegal coal mine at Umpleng area, while K. Chyrmang, the former owner of the mine was also detained by the police for questioning. Meanwhile, the whereabouts of Nizam Uddin, the manager of the illegal coal mine who has been absconding following the mining tragedy, remained untraced, even as the Meghalaya police have issued a lookout notice for him. Unscientific ‘rat-hole’ coal mining has been banned in the unregulated mines in Meghalaya since April 2014 by a National Green Tribunal order, but illegal mines like this one have flourished freely due to poor enforcement of the ban.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

Seven arrested for obscene FB page

Correspondent

IMPHAL, JUN 24: Manipur police on Thursday claimed to have arrested the account creator of the infamous private Facebook group that has drawn flak over its derogatory and obscene content. Two juveniles were also arrested on the charge of sharing the pornographic materials uploaded in the facebook page in the WhatsApp group. Including the three, the police have so far arrested seven persons in its course of investigation, the police said on Thursday. Manipur police have been investigating a private Facebook group ‘Kangleiemagi…’ in the name of Yumnam Piba having over 25,000 members after various rights bodies lodged complaints over its derogatory and obscene content. The police said that the Cyber Crime Police Station (CCPS) of CID(CB) have come across the Facebook page uploading anonymous women’s and other random women’s

IMPHAL, Jun 24: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh on Thursday said the state government was prepared to face a possible third wave of the coronavirus infection in the state. Country’s health experts believed that the third wave of COVID-19 is likely to hit India by October this year. The chief minister who inspected installation of a 20KL LMO Cryogenic Tank and a PSA Oxygen Plant at JNIMS hospital

complex Imphal today said that the state government was prepared for the third wave of the pandemic to hit the state. Singh reiterated that vaccination was the only way to protect from the virus and appealed to the people to avail the benefit of the ongoing vaccination drive. The chief minister visited JNIMS hospital to take stock of the ongoing installation work of the 20KL LMO Cryogenic Tank and a PSA Oxygen Plant which is being taken

up on war footing. One 10KL LMO Cryogenic Tank and a PSA Oxygen plant have already started operation recently. “These oxygen plants will significantly improve the availability of oxygen in the state and place us in a much better position to fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” the chief minister posted on his Facebook page after the inspection. On the other hand, with the detection of 549 fresh positive cases over the past 24 hours, the COVID19 infections caseload of

The two Juveniles will be produced in the concerned Juvenile Justice Board by observing all formalities, they added. Meanwhile, the account creator of the mega cloud account where many pornographic materials including child pornographic materials were stored was also arrested yesterday (Wednesday). He was identified as Mingchatlen Laishram (22) son of L Raikumar of Wangkhei Tokpam Leikai, Imphal East. Further investigation was going on, the police added. Earlier, Manipur Human Rights Commission, Manipur State Commission for Women and various other rights groups have raised concerns over the Facebook group for posting derogatory content. The two rights commissions had even registered separate cases and directed the Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur police to take action against the facebook group and arrest the culprits.

Dreaded criminal Babu Konwar shot dead in Assam

SIVASAGAR, JUN 24 (agencies): Dreaded criminal Babu Konwar shot dead in Assam Bubu Konwar, Sivasagar’s most wanted feared dacoit, was assassinated in a shootout with police near Geleky. He claimed to have killed 42 people over the years and was responsible for a number of high-profile murders in the state, reports The Sentinel Assam According to Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) GP Singh, the dreaded gang kingpin was injured in an encounter near Geleky, which is considered a big accomplishment for the Assam Police. According to the ADGP, the officers brought him to a hospital where he died from his injuries. Ac-

cording to police sources, Bubu was a key suspect in about 42 murder cases that occurred throughout the state. He was also reportedly involved in a huge number of cases including car theft, illicit drug trafficking, abduction, honey-trapping, illegal arms trafficking, fake currency circulation, and other crimes. He was arrested in 2016 for car theft. He was also charged with the murders of Congress politician Hemanta Barua and Dr. Mridul Barua in 2006. Born in Nagaland, the feared dacoit frequently fled to the neighbouring state after committing atrocities in Assam. “One veteran criminal, Bubu Konwar, has been grievously injured in

Bubu Konwar ( File) exchange of fire with police at Geleky in Sibsagar when he targeted the police team. He has been taken to hospital. One pistol has been recovered from his possession,” special DGP GP Singh tweeted on Wednesday night. “Bubu Konwar succumbed to his injuries and was declared dead at Geleky civil hospital,” he

Methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 1 cr seized in Mizoram, 2 arrested

AR personnel with the seized tablets.

Aizawl, Jun 24 (PTI): Two persons were arrested and 20,000 Methamphetamine tablets seized from their possession near the India-Myanmar border in Mizoram’s Champhai district on Thursday, Assam Rifles said in a statement. Acting on a tip-off, Assam Rifles and Customs Department personnel made the seizure worth Rs 1 crore in Chhungte village, it said. Both the arrested persons and the seized contraband were handed over to the Customs officials, the

statement said. Meanwhile, an Assam Rifles official said that the paramilitary force had recently seized a large quantity of Myanmar-bound explosives in Farkawn village in the district. Over 1.31 tonnes of Class II CAT-ZZ explosive powder, 3,925 detonators and 2,000 metres of safety fuse were seized on Monday, he said. Two persons were arrested for transporting the items and were later handed over to the state police, the official added.

the state reached 66,171 on Thursday. The fatality due to the COVID-19 in the state also rose to 1085 with 11 more patients succumbing to corona virus complications over the past 24 hours. However, the active cases in the state declined to 9,174 with the discharge of 655 patients upon recuperation today, as per the report of the state health department. There were 9,291 active Covid-19 cases on Wednesday. Adding the 655 recoveries, the total number of

recovered cases reached 55,912 and the recovery rate climbed to 84.49% against previous day’s 84.20%. The 549 new cases were detected when 4,278 persons were tested over the past 24 hours. The positivity rate of the day was 12.83%, the health department added. Meanwhile, the cumulative number of people vaccinated against COVID19 in the state reached 5,10,644 with 6,368 people getting the first dose of the vaccine on Thursday.

added later. According to authorities, the incident occurred when Konwar, who was on a scooter with an acquaintance, tries to escape a police checkpoint and shot at the officers. His accomplice was able to flee. Recently in March this year, the infamous Kingpin of Upper Assam was arrested by the Assam Police and 35 grams of supposed ‘brown sugar’ was recovered from him. He managed to get out on bail. He had already been ar rested in November 2016 in connection with car theft. That’s when he told TV cameras he was a contract killer who had killed 42 people for money. Konwar, who began with

minor thefts and robberies at the age of 16, progressed to car thefts, murders, kidnappings, and extortion. He was detained numerous times but was always released on bond. Kunwor is accused of murdering eminent doctor Mridul Baruah (2006), Congress politician Hemanta Bar uah (2008), businessman KL Ginoria (2012), and school headmaster DN Gogoi (2014). However, there were seven murder cases, 16 under the provision of the Arms Act, and 27 incidents of car theft recorded against Kunwor, according to police data. Interestingly, Konwar lost three fingers on his right hand 13 years ago while attempting to make a crude bomb at home.

Meghalaya government seeks more COVID vaccines from centre

Correspondent

ready to face 3rd wave of COVID-19: Manipur CM Correspondent

photos with indecent , sexualized captions in the early part of March this year. Since then, the CCPS has been observing the facebook page and it was found that some likeminded members of the facebook page shared their phone numbers to create WhatsApp groups for the purpose of sharing pornographic contents. On June 14 last, two FIRs were registered at CCPS, one against the persons involved in connection with the facebook page and another against those involved in connection with the WhatsApp group. During the course of investigations into the cases, four accused – Konjengbam Karorchandra Khaba (27), Abujam Shatyajit Singh (27), Elangbam Birijit Meitei (26) and Aribam Bonny Sharma (34) were arrested. Further investigation into the cases led to the arrest of two juveniles allegedly involved in sharing pornographic materials in the WhatsApp group, the police said.

SHILLONG, JUN 24: Meghalaya Health and Family Welfare Minister Alexander LalooHek on Thursday said the State government has written to the Central government seeking additional doses of COVID vaccines to ensure unhindered immunisation. “Around 98, 000 doses of vaccine are available in the State. We have written to the central government seeking for more vaccines,” he told reporters. Hek also informed that the government is discussing the issue of incentivising citizens who come forward to take the vaccine. Meanwhile, the

Meghalaya Government on Thursday decided that it will take the help of members of the state legislative assembly to ensure that every citizen takes the COVID-19 vaccine. “We request the MLAs to hold meetings in their own constituencies and urge their constituents to take the vaccine and ensure a massive vaccination drive,” Hek said. Meanwhile, Director of Health Services (MI), Dr. Aman War on the present Covid-19 situation informed that daily cases more or less are constant hovering around the 400-500 mark. “We are confident and very hopeful that the vaccination drive which we have undertaken will booster

up and it will provide the necessary protection to the people of the State plus it will give the health workers the confidence,” War said. “There is a slight flattening of the curve and with all the protocols in place and with the decision of the Meghalaya High Court clearly stating that those who spread rumours, on the efficacy of the vaccination severe action has to be taken by the government,” the medical official said. He also said that as one moves on its hope that although Covid-19 will always be there people will be able to adapt with the situation and let life go on as usual.

Cong to stage nationwide stir from Jul 7-17 against inflation, rising fuel prices NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (PTI): The Congress decided on Thursday to hold a countrywide agitational programme from July 7 to 17 against the rising inflation and the increase in the fuel prices. This was decided at a meeting of the party general secretaries and various state in-charges convened by Congress president Sonia Gandhi. All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K C Venugopal, in a statement, said led by the party chief, the AICC team discussed and deliberated upon the important and urgent issues of high inflation, price rise, the skyrocketing rates of pulses, edible oil and other household products as also the unprecedented everyday hike in the petrol and diesel prices. He said since May 2, the government has raised the fuel rates 29 times and the price of petrol has crossed Rs 100 per litre in more than 150 cities. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has earned Rs 22 lakh crore

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

Representational image. in the last seven years by imposing excise duty on petrol and diesel, Venugopal claimed. The prices of edible oils have also nearly doubled in the last six months and that of pulses have seen an unprecedented rise, he said, adding that the increase in the wholesale price index in May 2021 has been 12.94 per cent, which is the highest in 11 years. “Moved by the plight of the people already suffering on account of the

corona pandemic, unemployment and salary cuts, the Congress party has decided to launch nationwide agitation programmes at the block, district and state levels,” Venugopal said. These programmes, he said, will be implemented by the state units of the party between July 7 and July 17 and shall comprise leaders and members of the party as well as the AICC’s frontal organisations, including the Mahila Congress, aided by scores of ordinary party workers

all over the country. Giving details, Venugopal said, the party would launch a countrywide agitation of women involving the Mahila Congress, the Youth Congress and other frontal organisations of the AICC at the block level, and Congress leaders and workers would also take out cycle rallies at the district level. “Congress leaders and workers will take out marches and processions at the state level. A signature campaign will also be run at all petrol pumps across the country, demanding a reduction in the prices of petrol and diesel,” the AICC general secretary said. Through these programmes, he said the party aims to build a mass movement, which would put pressure on the government to roll back the excessive excise duty on fuel and gas, and provide relief to the already suffering consumers in the times of the pandemic, economic slowdown and unprecedented unemployment.

Israel Embassy blast: 4 detained from Kargil

Snatching away Kashmir’s statehood, vax issue brought shame to India: Mamata

NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (IANS): The Special Cell of Delhi Police said on Thursday that it has detained four persons hailing from Kargil in connection with its probe into the blast near the Israel Embassy here on January 29. According to Delhi Police, the Special Cell in a joint operation with a central intelligence agency and the Kargil Police has detained four persons from Kargil in connection with the conspiracy to plan and execute terror activities in the national capital. The four persons detained have been identified as Nazir Hussain, 26, Zulfikar Ali Wazir, 25, Aiaz Hussain, 28, and Muzammil Hussain, 25, all residents of Kargil in Ladakh. An official said that they have been taken on remand and brought to Delhi for questioning. A low-intensity bomb blast had occurred on January 29 near the Israel Embassy on Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Road, less than 2 km from the Vijay Chowk, where the Beating Retreat ceremony was on, sending the security establishments into a tizzy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with 14 leaders, including four former chief ministers, to chalk out the future course of action in the union territory. “What was the need to take away the statehood (of J&K)? This has not helped the country at all. For the last two years, tourists could not travel to Kashmir. It became a question of the country’s prestige. “The autocracy there has brought enough disgrace to the country, similar to what the (Covid) vaccines have done,” she said. Though Banerjee did not elaborate on the vaccine issue, she has earlier spoken out protesting low supplies of vaccines, differential pricing and lack of universal vaccination policy. She has also attacked export of vaccines at a time when stocks in India were low. The chief minister also claimed on Wednesday that Covaxin is the brainchild of the PM and asked him to get it approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) or take steps so that the vaccine is accepted globally.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a press conference, in Kolkata. (PTI)

KOLKATA, JUN 24 (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday claimed that snatching away of statehood from Jammu and Kashmir by the BJP-led central government has brought shame to the country, as did the Covid19 vaccine imbroglio. Baner jee made the comment in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modis meeting with leaders of various political parties of Jammu and Kashmir in New Delhi. “I have no knowledge about this meeting. I don’t even know the agenda of

the meeting,” she told reporters. Snatching away the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir and its bifurcation did not help the country in any way, Banerjee, also the Trinamool Congress supremo, claimed. On August 5, 2019, the Centre revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 and bifurcated it into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. In the government’s first outreach to Jammu and Kashmir’s political leadership since then,

ICMR, NIV to study if vax in India enough Rahul appears before Gujarat court, denies charges to neutralise delta plus covid variant NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (AGENCIES):The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Virology (NIV) are set to conduct a study to examine the potency of the ‘Delta Plus’ variant of Covid-19 in patients. This comes after the Union government found Delta Plus cases in Maharashtra (Ratnagiri and Jalgaon) Kerala (Palakkad and Pathanamthitta) and in Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal and Shivpuri). “The newly emerged Delta Plus variant has possible increased transmissibility, higher binding capacity to the lung cells and resistance to monoclonal antibody treatment. Looking at this scenario, Delta Plus variant could be a concern, and a high watch should be undertaken and containment of affected zone should be done reduce the

transmission,” Dr Pragya Yadav, head of the NIV’s Maximum Containment Facility, told the Mint. “As per earlier data concerning Delta variant, neutralization was happening with the existing vaccines in India. Though neutralization has dropped, it’s enough to protect against Delta variant. Delta Plus should also behave (in a similar manner). We are working in this direction. We have isolated this variant and we are going to conduct a study soon. We will come back with the Dr Yadav added. Twenty-one cases of the ‘Delta plus’ variant of Covid-19, considered highly infectious, have been reported in Maharashtra threatening to massively dent the state’s fight against the virus as experts warn that this variant may trigger a third wave of the pandemic in the state. Kerala, Karnataka,

and Madhya Pradesh, too, have reported cases of this deadlier variety. And even though, only about 200 confirmed infections have been detected across the globe, of which 30 are in India, fears remain that the virus mutant may wreak havoc in the near future. Union Health Ministry on Tuesday advised Maharashtra, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh on Delta plus variant of Covid-19 after 16 out of 22 cases reported in the country were reported from these states. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan at a press briefing had underlined that the Delta plus variant is currently a “variant of interest” and has not yet been classified as a “variant of concern”. Cases of the Delta plus variant have been detected in Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri and Jalgaon and parts of Kerala and Madhya Pradesh.

SURAT, JUN 24 (PTI): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi appeared before a magistrate’s court in Surat on Thursday to record his statement in a criminal defamation suit filed by a Gujarat MLA, and denied making any defamatory remarks on people with ‘Modi’ surname. The suit was filed by Surat BJP MLA Purnesh Modi over Gandhi’s alleged remark on the ‘Modi’ surname. In his statement before Surat’s Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) A N Dave, Gandhi denied making any defamatory remarks on people with Modi surname during a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. When the magistrate asked Gandhi if he had said Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave Rs 30 crore to an industrialist, Gandhi told the court that being a national leader, he keeps

raising issues of corruption and unemployment in his addresses in the interest of the nation, and it is his right to raise do so. When the court asked if he had said all people with Modi surname are thieves, Gandhi claimed he never said such words. Besides, to most of the remaining questions related to the evidence and statements of witnesses in the case, Gandhi said “I don’t know”. After recording the statement, the magistrate kept the case for next hearing on July 12. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had appeared before the court in October 2019 and pleaded not guilty for his comment. Legislator Pur nesh Modi filed a complaint against Gandhi in April 2019 under Indian Penal Code Sections 499 and 500, that deal with defamation. A week back, CJM

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrives at a magistrate’s court for the criminal defamation case over the ‘Modi surname’ remark, in Surat, Thursday. (PTI)

Dave directed Gandhi to remain present on June 24 to record his statement in the case. In his complaint, the MLA had alleged that Gandhi defamed the entire Modi community by saying “How come all the thieves have Modi as the common surname?” while addressing a poll rally in 2019.

During an election rally held at Kolar in Karnataka on April 13, 2019, Rahul Gandhi had reportedly asked, “Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi, Narendra Modi... how come they all have Modi as the common surname? How come all the thieves have Modi as the common surname?” He was the Congress

president when he had made this alleged remark. Purnesh Modi has also moved the Gujarat High Court, seeking to call Kolar district collector and a videographer, who recorded the speech, as witnesses in the case. The high court is expected to hear the matter on Monday.

Nadda slams Digvijay, Nath for ‘creating confusion’ through their remarks ‘Chinese actions led to LAC tensions’

J P Nadda he purportedly heard saying that the decision of revoking Article 370 and reducing the statehood of J&K was “extremely sad” and the Congress party “would certainly have to have a relook on this issue”, Nadda said, “You have seen what kind

of excellent views he has on the abrogation of Article 370 and 35 A.” “The things that they and their prime ministers were unable to do, the determination of our prime minister (Narendra Modi) and (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah’s strategy decimated Article 370 and 35A and made Kashmir an inseparable part of the country,” he said. A meeting is also underway on the Kashmir issue with the PM to discuss ways for taking Kashmir forward, he said. “They should understand that Kashmir today is free from Article 370 and 35 A. But (Digvijay) Singh is pained by it and therefore, indulges in different discus-

sions in the Clubhouse on the issue,” Nadda said. Similarly, (Kamal) Nath, while criticising the BJP and the prime minister, said that India is not great, but infamous in the world, Nadda said on the Madhya Pradesh Congress chief ’s recent statement over the government’s handling of the COVID-19 situation. “What kind of words he is using. See his mentality. If you want to criticize the BJP, do it, but why are you defaming the great country in the process,” he said. “Their main aim is to create confusion in the minds of the people and it is their habit,” Nadda alleged. Referring to the erst-

while Nath-led Congress government in MP that collapsed in March 2020 after 15 months of rule, he said it came to power after three five-year terms of the BJP government in the state, and added that everybody had seen how it functioned. “Transfers, commission and corruption ruled the state under Nath. No projects were allowed to start unless people starting it paid donations at the chief minister’s residence. The development works were stalled and the state was turned into a ‘mission commission’ instead of ‘mission progress’. All sections of the society got nothing except cheating,” he alleged.

Karnataka HC grants interim relief to Twitter MD in UP case

thrashed by some youth and forced to chant “Jai Sri Ram” and “VandeMataram”. Journalists Rana Ayyub and Saba Naqvi, and Congress leaders Salman Nizami, Shama Mohamed, and Maskoor Usmani were also charged for posting and sharing “misleading” tweets and video, and “provoking communal sentiments”. In the tweet, Abdul Samad claimed he was forced to chant “Jai Shri Ram” and “VandeMataram” though police ruled out a communal angle, saying the accused - both Hindus and Muslims - attacked the man after a dispute over amulets.

a “normal defence arrangement’’ to prevent and respond to encroachment and threats on China’s territory, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, “It is well recognised that it has been the Chinese actions over the last year, including amassing of a large number of troops close to border areas in the Western Sector, and trying to unilaterally alter the status quo along the LAC,

which have seriously disturbed peace and tranquility in the border areas’’. “These acts are in violation of bilateral agreements, including the 1993 and 1996 agreements that mandate that the two sides shall strictly respect and observe the LAC and that two sides will keep their military forces in the areas along the LAC to a minimum level,” he added.

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BENGALURU, JUN 24 (IANS): Karnataka High Court on Thursday granted interim relief to Twitter India Managing Director Manish Maheshwari, directing the UP Police not to take any coercive action against him. Maheshwari had approached the HC for transit anticipatory bail in connection with the FIR filed by the police over tweets on the assault of an elderly Muslim man in UP’s Ghaziabad. The UP Police had filed an FIR last week against Twitter India, several journalists, and Congress leaders after Abdul Samad alleged he was

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BHOPAL, JUN 24 (PTI): Hitting out at senior Congress leaders Digvijay Singh and Kamal Nath over their recent statements on the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the coronavirus situation, respectively, BJP president J P Nadda on Thursday accused them of creating confusion in the minds of people. Addressing a day-long meeting of Madhya Pradesh BJP’s executive committee virtually from New Delhi, he said that these (Congress) leaders forget that they are actually speaking out against the country. Referring to Singh’s recent statement made in a Clubhouse chat, in which

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

Unmasking Vitiligo : Mental health and myths

Vol. XXxI NO. 199 Dimapur, FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

Virus of genocide

s India emerges from the deadly second wave of Covid, another mutant version of the Delta strain first detected in India, and called as Delta plus variant, has been found in 22 cases across three states including Maharashtra, and over which the union health and family welfare ministry has warned people against what was described as a “variant of concern.” Ever since coronavirus first hit the world in 2019, it has been constantly mutating with a long list of new variants. RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 (coronavirus) constantly mutate to make more copies of themselves. Most of these mutations end up being disadvantageous to the virus and therefore disappear through natural selection. Sometimes the mutated virus improve the ability to attach more tightly to human cell, thus enhancing viral replication. Such mutations have resulted in several new SARS-CoV-2 variants which have led to outbreak clusters and in some cases, to global spread. These variants are broadly classified as variants of interest, concern or high consequence. In simple explanations, the variants have adapted themselves to their environment and able to spread faster and more fatally. The SARSCoV-2 variants of concern generally spread from person to person at least 20% to 50% more easily. Also, SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern can also lead to more severe disease and increased hospitalizations and deaths. Another concern is that these new variants can escape the immunity elicited by natural infection or our current vaccination efforts. The Delta Plus also shows stronger binding to receptors of lung cells and potentially reduced monoclonal antibody response. It may also show resistance to existing treatment protocol for Covid. There are concerns over whether current vaccines will be effective against the Delta Plus. Maharashtra, which has reported most of these Delta Plus cases, is already preparing for a third wave. The worry stems from the fact that very little is known about this strain, now in nine countries - US, UK, Portugal, Switzerland, Japan, Poland, Russia and China besides India.SARS-CoV-2 was earlier in 2019 known as the Wuhan virus, in recognition of the place where it first appeared. This virus and subsequent mutant strains have caused the world’s worst havocinfecting 18,05,43,825 people and resulting in the deaths of 39,11,024 people. Even the economies of all developed nations were shattered. While all countries in 2020 suffered huge contractions in their economies, only China showed positive growth. For instance, the GDP growth of UK was -9.6 percent compared to 2019; India contracted by -7.5 percent but only China showed growth of +4.9 percent for the same period. There are mounting evidences that the deadly virus did not arrive accidentally but intentionally and it continues to baffle the world because of its incredible pace of mutation and fatal consequences. All fingers point to the Wuhan Institute of Virology (China). The experiments on bat virus was ongoing in China since 2010 and with participation of America’s U.S. National Institutes of Health backed by US Health Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci. Further scientific evidence point to a cover of the mishap at Wuhan, which accuse the Chinese of “retro-engineering” to make it look like the virus evolved naturally from bats. The world continues to suffer because of the virus and no stone should be left unturned to expose the truth and impose accountability for the genocide.

DailyDevotion Reconciling Yourself to the Fact of Sin This is your hour, and the power of darkness. —Luke 22:53 Not being reconciled to the fact of sin— not recognizing it and refusing to deal with it— produces all the disasters in life. You may talk about the lofty virtues of human nature, but there is something in human nature that will mockingly laugh in the face of every principle you have. If you refuse to agree with the fact that there is wickedness and selfishness, something downright hateful and wrong, in human beings, when it attacks your life, instead of reconciling yourself to it, you will compromise with it and say that it is of no use to battle against it. Have you taken this “hour, and the power of darkness” into account, or do you have a view of yourself which includes no recognition of sin whatsoever? In your human relationships and friendships, have you reconciled yourself to the fact of sin? If not, just around the next corner you will find yourself trapped and you will compromise with it. But if you will reconcile yourself to the fact of sin, you will realize the danger immediately and say, “Yes, I see what this sin would mean.” The recognition of sin does not destroy the basis of friendship— it simply establishes a mutual respect for the fact that the basis of sinful life is disastrous. Always beware of any assessment of life which does not recognize the fact that there is sin. Jesus Christ never trusted human nature, yet He was never cynical nor suspicious, because He had absolute trust in what He could do for human nature. The pure man or woman is the one who is shielded from harm, not the innocent person. The so-called innocent man or woman is never safe. Men and women have no business trying to be innocent; God demands that they be pure and virtuous. Innocence is the characteristic of a child. Any person is deserving of blame if he is unwilling to reconcile himself to the fact of sin.

Quotes

Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. ~ Thomas A. Edison

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

-How many of us wondered, why that stranger/ friend/family member have those white spots on their skin? -Have we ever intentionally or unintentionally stared at them or talk behind their back? -Have we ignored them when they wanted to talk about it? -Do we ever stand up for them when they face social stigmatisation? -Are you scared to go near them , touch them or being seen together? -Have we taken opportunity to educate them to visit the Doctor and seek treatment? -Have we as a healthcare provider given our best to educate them about their skin condition? -Do you, as a vitiligo patient, isolate yourselves because you are scared of discrimination and rejection?

o r l d Vi t i l i go Day is observed on 25th June every year worldwide, to raise awareness and educate people about Vitiligo. Patient education about their skin condition is of paramount importance as it has direct impact on self esteem, mental health and overall quality of life. As the patient struggles to accept their new diagnosis and look at their future dimly, the caregivers and onlookers ignorance about Vitiligo creates stigmatisation which adds up to their emotional agony. Vitiligo is a skin con-

dition, an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system unknowingly and mistakenly attacks the pigment/colour producing cells of the skin called ‘melanocytes’ and are destroyed, leading to visible white patches. It affects 1% of the population worldwide. Evidence shows that it has some hereditary pattern, where about 20-30% of vitiligo patients have reported similar skin condition in at least one of the close relatives. With underlying genetic predisposition, certain triggers like stress, physical trauma, sunlight, drugs, nutritional deficiency, infections and exposure to chemicals can initiate the autoimmune process and the so called, oxidative stress of melanocytes, leading to cascade of events causing Vitiligo. Patients come to us with white patches on skin usually without any symptoms of itching/pain and varying degrees of area and site involvement, which we classify them accordingly as focal (small area of involvement), segmental (one side of body), lip tip vitiligo (finger tips/toes and lips), vitiligo vulgaris (widely scattered white patches), mucosal (genital area or lips), universalis (covering almost whole body). When present over hairy area, the overlying hair may also lose colour and appear grey. Certain patients have progressive vitiligo (extending rapidly)

while few have stable vitiligo (size and involvement of area remains the same and no new lesion over a year). Both sexes and any age group can be affected. A proper history about onset of skin condition, family history and clinical examination usually suffice to make correct diagnosis of Vitiligo by a Dermatologist. Vitiligo being an autoimmune disorder, about 15% patients may have other associated autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune thyroiditis, hyper or hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, alopecia areata, pernicious anaemia etc and other associated skin disorders such as atopic eczema, psoriasis etc, hence proper screening is necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment is important as delaying on seeking treatment can cause the skin condition to progress rapidly. The goal of treatment is to control the spread and new area of involvement, regaining pigmentation of affected area and provide complete patient education to have a healthy psychosocial life as well. Various treatment modalities are available which will be individualised by your Dermatologist based on site and extent of involvement, progressive/ stable and social demographic profile. Medical treatment includes oral and cream immunosuppressant for-

mulations, light therapy, surgical treatment for selective patients and camouflaging, as an alternative therapy. With advancement in medicine, newer treatment modalities have been emerging with encouraging results. Vitiligo can be effectively treated if diagnosed early. Proper follow up and maintenance therapy is essential. Vitiligo is not a cosmetic disease, it is an autoimmune disease with a huge psychosocial burden for those who are diagnosed with it. It is important to establish support with family, friends, patient support groups and your Doctor, who can proactively help the patient medically and provide emotional support too.

MYTHS associated with Vitiligo

1. Vitiligo is contagious No, vitiligo is not contagious. We do not get vitiligo by touching them/ exchanging handshake/ being in same room /eating dinner or sitting together. 2. All white patches are vitiligo No, not all white patches are Vitiligo. There are many other possible diagnosis eg. off-white patches following superficial fungal infection or any inflammatory disorder or birth marks or following application of some whitening cream or allergy etc.

3. Vitiligo and Leprosy are the same. N o, L e p r o s y i s a completely different entity and one of the most common perception that patients mistakenly think they have. Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria, Mycobacterium Leprae, usually characterised by decrease/loss of sensation along with off-white skin patches and certain laboratory tests are needed for confirmation before starting treatment. 4. Vitiligo only affects the skin that you see, such as face, hands, lips No, as discussed earlier, vitiligo patients have varying presentations with different site and area of involvement. However, sunlight being one of the trigger, it is seen more commonly over sun exposed areas such as face, hands, lips. 5. Special diet needs to be taken to control the progression of Vitiligo No, Vitiligo needs medical management and there are no clear cut scientific evidence or consensus till now that Vitiligo patients need special dietary advice. Patients can have a healthy balanced diet with no restrictions, rather add food items that are rich in omega 3 fatty acids (sprouts, walnuts, fish etc) as oxidative stress is postulated in the pathogenesis. 6. Vitiligo patients should not marry or have children. No, vitiligo patients can marry and have chil-

dren. Although there are evidence of hereditary pattern associated with vitiligo, it is not absolute. Studies shows that even monozygotic twins have only about 23 % chance of developing and not 100%. Likewise, only 20-30% of the vitiligo patients mention having family history. 7. Vitiligo patients will surely develop skin cancer No, there is no absolute predictability about the course of the vitiligo and even more, about it developing into skin cancer at later stage. However, we strictly advice our patients to use adequate sun protective measures , as the skin pigment melanin, which is one of the natural protector of skin against UV rays is impaired here, hence prevention is the key. 8. Vitiligo is untreatable No, it is treatable with early diagnosis, proper medical treatment and follow up. A sound knowledge about Vitiligo, various treatment modalities and a holistic approach from the Healthcare provider along with equal effort from the patient with usage of cream and oral medications consistently and regularly makes a treatment successful. Dr. Neimenuo Kuotsu Skin, STD & Leprosy Specialist Kohima Skin & Aesthetic Clinic High school junction, Kohima, Nagaland

Design a climate-ready governance system

ountries around the world, including India, face the challenge of building a climate-ready State. Because almost all sectors and many parts of society contribute to greenhouse gases and are vulnerable to its impact, the climate crisis requires an all-ofgovernment and all-of-society response. Because the shifts required must be rapid to address the urgency of the problem, we need strategic ability, including modelling, analysis and direction-setting. And finally, because these shifts will be disruptive, and create winners (renewable energy companies) and losers (coal-dependent communities), a climate-ready State must be able to limit the fallout for those disadvantaged by the transition. There has been a steady chorus calling for enhanced policy and targets by all countries in the build-up to the Glasgow Conference of Parties in November, and climate has been central to global discussions such as the recent meeting of G7 leaders. Yet, there has been too little discussion about how India, and other countries, can get climate governance right. In addition to targets and policies, we need to deepen and enhance systems of governance for the climate crisis, which include dedicated organisations,

policy frameworks, capacities, and financing mechanisms. This enormous governance challenge has long been underaddressed, in India, as elsewhere. A national plan, created in 2008, limited itself to eight priority sectors, with uneven progress across the various “missions”. No durable bodies were created to orchestrate a strategic national response over the long run. An advisory council under the prime minister has not met since 2015. An apex implementation body composed of senior bureaucrats has been similarly inconsistent, meeting only six times between 2013 and 2019. India has accumulated a growing patchwork of climate policies, with some benefits, but these are scattershot and untethered to a larger national goal. An eight-country study by the Centre for Policy Research that compares climate governance systems tells us how national governments could tackle the climate governance challenge. It is clear there is no onesize-fits-all institutional framework; different needs, governance systems, and political support all matter. The United Kingdom, with arguably the most welldeveloped climate governance, has a law-backed independent

commission that recommends five-yearly carbon budgets to the government, which filters through to each department. In the fractious climate politics of the United States, after failed efforts at climate law, the federal government has chosen to embed climate capacities across departments. China has a top-down approach that parcels out targets decided at the highest levels of government to lower rungs under threat of sanction. Which approach is right for India? India’s approach must be driven by its development and carbon context. India’s energy needs are growing, and we emit far less carbon per capita than the rich world. Yet, for our own sake, India must meet an increasing share of energy needs from low-carbon sources. And we must ensure that the India of the future, from infrastructure to industrial foundations, is compatible with low-carbon development. As argued in these pages earlier, India should focus on low-carbon development pathways and establish institutions for this. Crucially, they must be able to peer into the future to assess how policy choices today might shape decisions in later stages of growth. A choice between electric vehicles or public transport determines the future carbon-

intensity of cities, automobile manufacturing and the electric grid, for example. In a new policy brief, we lay out an institutional architecture capable of crafting such lowcarbon development pathways. We ground our prescriptions in the understanding that the system must fill a strategic void through credible information and analysis; that it must be open to voices across society; that it must appropriately address different levels of governance in India; and that it must be able to coordinate ministries pulling in different directions even while working with the grain of existing systems. This is a delicate balancing act. At the core of our proposal lies an independent, non-executive low-carbon development commission (LCDC), anchored in new climate legislation and composed of both experts and stakeholders. It is meant to craft lowcarbon development pathways and recommend policy opportunities to ministries, deriving authority from the credibility of its analysis. But equally, its links to key stakeholders — business, labour, civil society — will allow it to embed technical analysis in broad public discourse. To improve chances of uptake, we propose that ministries be made to report to

For heart’s sake

ith the surge in COVID19 cases and deaths, the Indian healthcare system is struggling. The spike in cases is concerning as the new COVID-19 variant is more infectious and lethal. Amidst this, people with nonCOVID health problems are bearing the brunt of the situation. The fear of contracting coronavirus on their visit to the hospital, patients with heart ailments are dismissing their symptoms and refraining from consulting doctors. Consequently, there is rise in out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest cases that can be fatal if not treated immediately. The cause of sudden cardiac arrest is usually an abnormal heart rhythm or arrhythmia.

Considering that most sudden cardiac arrest cases occur out of hospital, it is important to educate the masses about sudden cardiac arrest and the importance of palliative care for managing it. The abrupt loss of heart function, breathing and consciousness is known as sudden cardiac arrest. It is usually a result of the problem with heart’s electrical system which obstructs the heart’s pumpiang ability and stops blood flow to the body. If not treated immediately, sudden cardiac arrest can be fatal. On the onset of sudden cardiac arrest, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) should be delivered immediately that increases the chance of survival. An effective chest compression is done by pushing

the chest of the person in cardiac arrest at the rate of 90 compressions a minute. If CPR is continued until emergency help with defibrillator is made available, it can save a life. Moreover, if a person with sudden cardiac arrest is not given a shock through defibrillator, it can decrease the chance of survival by 10 per cent every minute. Although cardiac arrest can affect a particular group of patients, it is difficult to predict when it can occur as there are no warning symptoms. Therefore, a continuous protection is required for such patients. Dr Viveka Kumar The writer is Principal Director & Chief of Cath Labs (Pan Max) — Cardiac Sciences

Parliament and the public on their annual plans, goals and achievements. Budgetary incentives for mitigation might speed up the process. To coordinate a growing body of policy, now in a different context, we recommend revitialising the body of senior bureaucrats mentioned above – the executive committee on climate change. The ministry of environment, forests and climate change will continue as the nodal ministry, handling key functions, including monitoring. As climate science advances and India’s developmental position evolves, this architecture must be capable of reimagining itself to address other formulations, including net zero-emission targets. Climate is now firmly entrenched in the global, and Indian, agenda. A great deal of energy goes into debating policies and targets. For these to be strategic, effective, and consistent with India’s development goals, India now needs to also build a climate-ready system of governance. Navroz K Dubash, Aditya Valiathan Pillai and Parth Bhatia Dubash is professor, Centre for Policy Research (CPR), New Delhi, Pillai and Bhatia are co-authors of the piece, are associate fellows at CPR. (The views expressed are personal)

Reader’s Post

Sir,

Poor power supply

We have been facing severe problem of growing instances of power failure for the last few weeks in our locality now. With Dimapur becoming more humid, this irregularity in electric supply has been giving all us a terrible headache. Not only the electricity supply gets disrupted frequently but these power cuts extend for long hours, even for three to five hours per day. Our inverters get almost discharged too and with all these being said, I would like to know what is the reason behind the constant electricity disruption in Dimapur? Electricity is most important during the summers. So, the concerned department should strive to provide uninterrupted power supply. Aien Ao, 5th mile, Dimapur Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

‘For now priority remains utilising domestic vax for own vaccination’ added. Bagchi also said India hopes that as the Covid situation in the country continues to improve, other nations would take steps to normalize travel with India. “We have seen some initial steps in this regard. The government will continue to prioritise this issue,” he said. To a separate question on emergency use authorisation for Covaxin from the World Health Organization (WHO), the MEA spokesperson said, “We are closely following the developments regarding efforts by Bharat Biotech to obtain emergency use listing authorisation from the WHO.” Asked which countries have shown interest in using or adapting the CoWin application, the digital platform that helped India launch and implement a nationwide COVID-19 vaccination programme, Bagchi pointed out that during his intervention at the recent G-7 meeting, Prime

Minister Narendra Modi had offered to share India’s experience and expertise in the successful use of open source digital tools in contact tracing and vaccine management. “In pursuance of this, the National Health Authority proposes to organise an event with partner countries across the world to share details of the indigenously developed CoWin app, which has been at the centre of our vaccination drive,” he said. “ We w i l l p r ov i d e further updates once the details of the event have been firmed up,” Mr Bagchi added. On a proposal of India and South Africa for a temporary waiver of certain intellectual property rights provisions in the TRIPS Agreement to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, Bagchi said talks are on with many countries at various levels, but added that for details, the Commerce Ministry should be contacted.

‘Rahul should join Pawar to bring oppn together’ MUMBAI, JUN 24 (PTI): The Shiv Sena on Thursday said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi should join hands with NCP chief Pawar to align all opposition parties together to take on the ruling BJP at the Centre. “Gandhi attacks the Centre and its policies regularly, but that is on Twitter,” an editorial in the Sena mouthpiece ‘Saamana’ said. The Sena, which shares power with the NCP and Congress in Maharashtra, further claimed PM Modi’s body language has changed. “He knows the situation in the country has gone out of his hands. Despite people’s anger, the BJP and the government have confidence that they face no threat because of the weak and disjointed opposition,” it said. Pawar on Tuesday hosted a meeting of leaders of eight opposition parties, including the TMC, SP, AAP, RLD and Left at his residence in Delhi, amid heightened speculation about the possibility of a third front against the BJP.

India should aim to be among world’s top 3 naval powers in 10-12 yrs: Rajnath

K A RWA R ( K A R N A TAKA), JUN 24 (PTI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said the naval base being developed here under “Project Seabird” should be Asia’s biggest, and he would try to get budget allocation enhanced for it, if required. He also said India should aim to be among one of the top three naval powers in the world in the next 10-12years time. “I had a curiosity before visiting Project Seabird to see and understand it... I’m happy seeing Karwar closely and can say that my confidence level has increased towards this naval base,” Singh said. Addressing the Indian Navy officers and sailors, he said, with the completion of the project, not only India’s defence preparedness will be strengthened, but also the country’s trade, economy and the humanitarian assistance that it provides will also get more strength. “It is said that this will become India’s largest naval base, but I have said not only

ity, which will improve our maintenance compared to earlier... so I say this naval base is different from the rest,” he said. Noting that India’s strength is growing, Singh said, “..India is now among the five major naval powers in the world, we should aim to be among the top three in the next ten to twelve years.” Indian Navy’s contribution in maritime and national security is immense, Singh said. Not only him, but those with the knowledge on security-related issues are of the view that the Navy will play the most important role in the country’s security in the future, he added. Citing the role played by the navy in the past like the liberation of Goa, and India-Pakistan wars, among others, he said there is Navy’s role in improving diplomatic relations and recalled the service rendered by it during the COVID pandemic, which has gained appreciation from other countries too.

NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (AGENCIES): India on Thursday said its stand on COVID-19 vaccine exports has been that it would depend on its domestic needs and asserted that right now the priority remains utilising made-in-India jabs for its own inoculation drive. The assertion by Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi came at an online media briefing in response to queries on media reports on possible exports of vaccines from India to Bangladesh. “Our position on the issue of vaccine exports has been consistent and clear. We have always stated that overseas supply of vaccines from India would depend on vaccine availability and our domestic vaccination programme,” Bagchi said. “For the moment our priority remains on utilising made-in-India vaccines for our own vaccination programme which as you know has received a boost

with the new phase of vaccination that was launched earlier this week on June 21,” he said. Bagchi said India is also making efforts to further increase its domestic vaccine production. Asked when would Pfizer’s vaccine be available in India, the MEA spokesperson emphasised that the government of India is making all efforts to augment vaccine availability in the country be it through domestic production or imports. “As regards the specific vaccines and the status of their imports into India, this is a matter for the concerned regulatory authorities,” he

Procure maximum wheat from farmers: Priyanka

Now, farmers’ stir to enter next level to Doval pitches for ‘action plan’ by SCO against LeT, JeM save democracy: Sanyukt Kisan Morcha

NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (PTI): Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday urged the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure maximum procurement of wheat from farmers, saying if steps were not taken for it the produce would be ruined due to rain. The Congress general secretary said that in Uttar Pradesh, the last date for wheat procurement has passed and the government procurement of wheat from many farmers has not been done. “If ‘buying wheat from the last farmer’ was not a ‘jumla’ (rhetoric), then the BJP government should ensure maximum purchase by extending the date of wheat procurement,” Gandhi said in a tweet in Hindi. Otherwise the wheat of the farmers will be ruined due to the rain, she added. Gandhi on Monday had written to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to flag the problems being faced by wheat farmers in selling their produce and demanded that the government should guarantee wheat procurement.

Arindam Bagchi

SKM members during the press conference.

RO H TA K , J U N 2 4 (AGENCIES): The farmers’ agitation is all set to enter the next level to save democracy with the slogan ‘kheti bachao, loktantra bachao’ with effect from June 26, which marks the completion of seven months of the stir. Associations of labourers, women, students, Dalits and minorities will be roped in for the purpose and memoranda will be submitted to the President through the governors of different states on June 26. An announcement to this effect was made at a joint news conference of the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and office-bearers of

Praveen Sinha appointed as Special Director of CBI

NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (IANS): The government on Wednesday appointed CBI Additional Director Praveen Sinha as the Special Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), a post earlier held by Rakesh Asthana. “The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has appointed Praveen Sinha as the Special Director of CBI for a tenure up to his superannuation on April 30, 2022 from the date of assumption of charge, or until further orders, whichever is earlier,” the Department of Personnel and Training said. The post of Special Director is the second seniormost position in the CBI after the Director. The post was vacant for the last three years. Sinha, a Gujarat-cadre IPS officer of 1988 batch, has served as the agency’s acting Director after Rishi Kumar Shukla had retired on February 3. He held the post till Subodh Kumar Jaiswal was appointed as

new CBI chief by the highpowered committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In CBI, Sinha had earlier served as the superintendent of police, deputy inspector general, joint director and additional director in two stints between 2000 and 2021.

other farmers’ organisations here on Thursday. Incidentally, June 26 also marks the imposition of Emergency by the Congress government in 1975. “It is an irony that the central BJP leadership, which claims to be victim of the national emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi, has declared a sort of undeclared emergency in the country wherein all voices of dissent are suppressed with a brutal force,” said Inderjit Singh, vice-president of the Haryana unit of All India Kisan Sabha. Endorsing his views, SKM leader Yogendra Yadav said the BJP government at the Centre had

made emergency the normal way of life. “The government has been trying to sabotage the farmers’ agitation, but it has failed to do so. They are stating that the stir has been politicised. Let me tell them that no political party in the country has the capability to sustain such a massive agitation for so long,” maintained Yadav. On being questioned about the possible solution of the stalemate between the farmers and the government, he asserted that the only solution was that the satta (government) should bow before the janta (public) to uphold democratic values. “However, the ruling party’s leadership fails to accept this premise owing to its arrogance. Instead of having open-minded talks with the farmers, they are trying to incite their followers to weaken the stir by all means,” he stated. Satyawan, president of the AllIndia Kisan Khet Mazdoor Sabha, and Prem Gahlawat, vice-president of the All-India Kisan Mahasabha, also addressed the conference.

NEW DELHI, JUN 24 (PTI): National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has pitched for an “action plan” against Pakistan-based terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed under the framework of eight-nation grouping SCO and called for expeditiously bringing the perpetrators of terror attacks to justice. At an in-person meeting of top security officials of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Tajikistan’s capital Dushanbe on Wednesday, he also called for full implementation of the UN resolutions and targeted sanctions against UN-designated terrorist individuals and entities, official sources said. Doval also emphasised the adoption of international standards to counter terror financing and suggested having a memorandum of understanding between the SCO and anti-terror watchdog FATF (Financial Action Task Force). Strongly condemning terrorism in all forms and manifestations, he said the perpetrators of terrorism including cross-border terror attacks should be expeditiously brought to justice.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND DIRECTORATE OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE NAGALAND : KOHIMA

No. DHFW-5/23/TRG-NSG/2017/

India’s, our wish is that this should become Asia’s biggest naval base, and I will try to get budget allocation increased if required for this,” he added. Singh, accompanied by Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Karambir Singh, undertook an aerial survey of project area and sites, prior to arriving at INS Kadamba Helipad here. Stating that during the aerial survey of the project, he could see its future, the Defence Minister said, the future of this naval base is “very bright” and the credit for this has to go to the officers and sailors. “I have also seen the country’s first sealift facil-

fully supports SCO Contact Group on Afghanistan and it should be more active. Doval said that though India became a member of the bloc in 2017, it has physical, spiritual, cultural and philosophical linkages for centuries with countries that make up the SCO. The NSA also pitched for greater connectivity including through initiatives like Chahbahar, INSTC, regional air corridors and Ashgabat Agreement, adding connectivity leads to economic gains and trust. At the same time, he said connectivity must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity. The SCO, seen as a counterweight to NATO, is an eight-member economic and security bloc and has emerged as one of the largest transregional international organisations. India and Pakistan became its permanent members in 2017.

NSA Ajit Doval at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation NSA’s meeting in Dushanbe, Thursday. (PTI)

The NSA proposed an action plan against Lashkare-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-eMohammed (JeM) as part of the SCO framework, the sources said. The LeT and JeM were involved in a series of terror attacks in India. In his remarks, Doval also pitched for monitoring of new technologies being used by terrorists including drones for smuggling of weapons and misuse of dark web, artificial intelligence, blockchain and social me-

dia. On the sidelines of the meeting, Doval had an over two-hour-long meeting with Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev. The sources said they discussed contemporary developments of bilateral, regional and global significance. At the meeting, Doval, referring to developments in Afghanistan, said that there is a need to preserve the gains made in the last two decades and give top priority to the welfare of the Afghan people. He said India

Government of Nagaland Nagaland State AYUSH Mission Society: National AYUSH Mission Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Nagaland: Kohima /Dated Kohima the 24th June 2021

NO.DHFW-09/NAM/ADVT./31/2017/596

ADVERTISEMENT Applications are hereby invited from eligible Candidates to apply for the following Contractual Post under National AYUSH Mission (NAM), Nagaland State AYUSH Mission Society (NSAMS). Sl. No

Dated, Kohima the June, 2021.

In pursuance to Govt. approval No. MED-9/3/93/696 Dated, Kohima the 18th June 2021, interested candidates from bonafide Indigenous Inhabitants for the State of Nagaland are invited to undergo Training in General Nursing & Midwifery (GNM) and Female Health Worker (FHW) for the session 2021-2022 for the 4 (Four) Schools of Nursing in Nagaland as indicated below. 1. Minimum and maximum age for admission will be 17–25 years on or before 31st Jan 2021. 2. Application Form duly filled up along with necessary documents duly self attested may be submitted along with the Schedule Tribe and Indigenous Inhabitant Certificate which is compulsory for all while submitting the form. 3. No separate calling letter will be issued. 4. Application Form can be downloaded w.e.f 28th June 2021 from the Department Website: nagahealth.nagaland.gov.in 5. Last date of submission of Application Form(s) online shall be 8th July 2021. Duly filled in application in PDF format along with requisite supporting documents should be submitted through email to: hfw.recruitment2020@gmail.com 6. Course detailsA. (GNM) (School of Nursing, NHAK, IMDH Mokokchung, D.H. Dimapur) i. Male and unmarried Female candidates ii. 3 (Three) years course, 100 (one hundred) seats. iii. Qualification – Class 12 passed any stream with 45%, preferably Science B. (FHW) (School of Nursing, D.H. Tuensang) i. Unmarried Female candidates. ii. Two years course, 30 (Thirty) seats. iii Qualification – (a) Class 12 passed any stream with 40% from recognized English medium School Board. (b) Class 12 qualified any stream with 45% from Recognised National institute of Open School. 7. No examination will be conducted. Therefore, selection of candidates will be purely based on academic performance (marks) in the qualifying examination. 8. No Application Forms will be issued from the Office. 9. Incomplete Application, if submitted will be rejected summarily. List of rejected application will be published in the Office Notice Board. Backward Tribe Reservation Policy (25%+12%= 37%) of seats for undergoing GNM & FHW courses will be followed as per Govt. Notification No.RCBT-5/87/(Pt-II)/Dated, Kohima the 14th April, 2011. (DR. Neikhrielie Khimiao) Principal Director Dte. of Health & Family Welfare Nagaland, Kohima Issued by DIPR DC-512

Rajnath Singh

Name of the Post

Resident Medical Officer (Ayush)

Medical Officer (Ayur.)

Medical Officer (Ayur./ Y&N)

Consultant (HMIS)

Medical OfficerAyush HWC

Qualification & Experience BHMS/ BAMS/ BYNS from recognised institution/ University with minimum 7 years working experience. BAMS from recognised institution/ University with minimum 3 years working experience. BAMS/ BYNS from recognised institution/ University. Preferably with 3 years working experience. BHMS/ BAMS/ BYNS from recognised institution/ University with minimum 5 years working experience. Preferably with skills in computer application. BHMS/ BAMS from recognised institution/ University. Preferably with 1 year relevant field work experience in any Health Sector post completion of Degree.

Monthly remuneration

No. of Post

Place of Posting Integrated Ayush Hospital, Noklak

₹. 40,000/-

₹. 35,000/-

SPMU, DoH&FW, Kohima.

Ayush HWC, Ayush Dispensary at Wokha, Mokokchung & Kohima Districts.

₹ 25,000/- pm plus ₹ 15,000/- pm as Performance Linked Payment (PLP).

Integrated Ayush Hospital, Dimapur. Integrated Ayush Hospital, Noklak.

NOTE: 1. Candidates are to submit in PDF File (soft copy) at Email ID: hr.namnagaland@gmail.com; an Application with Bio- Data addressed to the Mission Director, NAM/ NHM, Nagaland, Room No-203, National AYUSH Mission (NAM), Directorate of Health & Family Welfare, Rüziezoü, Kohima- 797001; enclosed with self attested photocopy of all relevant documents, recent passport size photo pasted in the application, with complete address, email ID & Contact No. Last date of submission of application: 30th June 2021. ***Documents to be enclosed: a) Admit card & Marksheet: HSLC & HSSLC b) Marksheets (1st to Final year) & Pass/ Provisional Certificate: BAMS c) Marksheets & Pass/ Provisional Certificate: PG d) Internship Completion certificate & Registration certificate issued by competent Council. e) Indigenous Inhabitant Certificate & Schedule Tribe Certificate. 2. In-Service NHM/ NAM employees may also apply. However, if selected the incumbent will have to resign from the current post. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from competent Authority. 3. Incomplete documents/not fulfilling the qualification will be summarily rejected. List of shortlisted candidates for virtual interview shall be displayed on the Notice Board on 7th July 2021. No separate calling letter shall be issued. 4. Date of virtual interview: Shortlisted candidates will be intimidated through email. 5. Preferences will be given to candidate belonging to the region. 6. An Individual is eligible to apply for one post only. 7. Lobbying in any form will result in disqualification of the candidate. 8. For any queries, applicant may contact this office at 0370-2270401 on working days between 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

DC-513

Sd/- (DR. I. TALITEMSULA JAMIR) Mission Director- NAM/ NHM, Nagaland: Kohima

business/state

Focus on ‘toyconomy’: PM Modi

New Delhi, Jun 24 (IANS): Noting that India’s share in $100 billion global toy market is only around one-and-a-half billion dollars, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday stressed to focus on “toyconomy” advising country’s gaming and toy industry to play a big role in this sector. By focusing on toy and gaming sector, the Prime Minister said that country’s crores of rupees going outside can be saved. “Today, we import around 80 per cent of our toys as well. That is, crores of rupees of the country are going out on these. Today, the world wants to understand the present potential of India, the art-culture of India, the society of India in a better way. Our Toys and Gaming Industry can play a big role in this,” the Prime Minister said while addressing participants of Toycathon-2021 via video conferencing. In the last five-six years, the Prime Minister

said hackathons have been made big platforms to solve the problems of the country and that the thinking behind this is to organize the country’s potential and to give it a medium. “The effort is that our youth should be directly connected to the challenges and solutions of the country.” The Prime Minister mentioned if the child’s first school is the family, then the first book and the first friends are these toys. “The first communication of the child with the society

is through these toys.” “There is another very big aspect associated with toys, which everyone needs to know. This is the economy of the world of Toys and Gaming - Toyconomy.” Pointing that most of the online or digital games available in the market currently are not Indian in concept, the Prime Minister told the participants to take advantage of this loophole as the concepts of many games either promote violence or cause mental stress. Toycathon 2021 was

jointly launched by the Ministry of Education, WCD Ministry, MSME Ministry, DPIIT, Textile Ministry, I&B Ministry and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) on January 5 this year to crowd-source innovative toys and games ideas. The event aimed at boosting the Toy Industry in India to help it capture a wider share of the toy market. Around 1.2 lakh participants from across India registered and submitted more than 17,000 ideas for the Toycathon 2021, out of which 1,567 ideas have been shortlisted for the three-day online Toycathon grand finale, being held from June 22 to June 24. Due to Covid19 restrictions, this grand finale will have teams with digital toy ideas, while a separate physical event will be organized for non-digital toy concepts. India’s domestic market as well as the global toy market offers a huge opportunity to our manufacturing sector.

Rupee gains for 2nd day; 9 paise higher at 74.18 USD Mumbai, Jun 24 (PTI): The rupee gained for the second straight day and closed 9 paise higher at 74.18 (provisional) against the US dollar on Thursday, supported by a rally in domestic equities and weaker American currency. At the interbank forex market, the rupee opened at 74.20, and hit an intraday high of 74.16 and a low of 74.25. It finally finished at 74.18, higher by 9 paise over its last close. On Wednesday, the rupee had settled at 74.27 against the US dollar. “It’s the very quiet session for the forex market as participants waiting for Fed speakers comments and Bank of England’s policy decision. Indian rupee along with other Asian currencies stayed calm and traded in small range,” said Dilip Parmar, Research Analyst, HDFC Securities.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

Delta variant now reported in 85 ... (From p-1) Vaccine effectiveness estimates against hospitalisation due to Delta and Alpha variants over 14 days post second dose was estimated to be 96 per cent and 95 per cent respectively for Pfizer BioNTech- Comirnaty and 92 per cent and 86 per cent respectively, for AstraZeneca-Vaxzevria. Single dose effectiveness against hospitalisation over 21 days after immunisation remained high for Pfizer BioNTechComirnaty at 94 per cent

against Delta and 83 per cent against Alpha. Effectiveness of one dose of AstraZeneca-Vaxzevria against hospitalization was similar for Delta and Alpha variants. A second study from Scotland found that two doses of Pfizer BioNTechComirnaty were 83 per cent and 79 per cent effective against symptomatic disease and infection due to Delta, respectively, over 14 days after receipt of second dose in persons 15 years and older.

“Together, these studies suggest moderately reduced VE at preventing symptomatic disease and infection due to the Delta variant as compared to Alpha... The studies also provide further evidence of the importance of two doses of both Pfizer BioNTech-Comirnaty and AstraZeneca-Vaxzevria in preventing hospitalisation, symptomatic disease and infection due to both Delta and Alpha variants,” the update said.

Mysteriously deleted Wuhan Covid19 gene sequences found: report (From p-1) “I don’t think this bolsters either the lab origin or zoonosis hypothesis,” Bloom said in his analysis. “I think it provides additional evidence that this virus was probably circulating in Wuhan before December, certainly, and that probably, we have a less than complete picture of the sequences of the early viruses.” The report added: “Phylogenetic analysis of these sequences in the context

of carefully annotated existing data suggests that the Huanan Seafood Market sequences that are the focus of the joint WHO-China report are not fully representative of the viruses in Wuhan early in the epidemic. Instead, the progenitor of known SARS-CoV-2 sequences likely contained three mutations relative to the market viruses that made it more similar to SARS-CoV-2’s bat coronavirus relatives.”

S&P lowers India’s FY22 growth to 9.5% Jio & Google collaborate to develop world’s most affordable smartphone

KAKURO

nounced that Google and Jio teams have jointly developed a truly breakthrough smartphone that we are calling JioPhone Next. “JioPhone Next is powered by an optimised version of Andriod operating system…that has been jointly developed by Jio and Google…especially for the Indian market,” he said. JioPhone Next will be available from September 10, and packs a punch with cutting-edge features including voice assistant, language translation, auto-

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matic read-aloud of screen text, and smart camera with augmented reality filters, among others. “As you have come to expect from Jio, it is my promise that JioPhone Next will be, by far, the most affordable smartphone not just in India but globally,” Ambani said. Last year, Google had announced an investment of Rs 33,737 crore for a 7.7 per cent stake in Reliance Industries’ technology venture Jio Platforms. The tech giant had teamed up

on technology initiatives, including development of affordable smartphones for the price-sensitive, techsavvy Indian market. The fully-featured smartphone that is set to hit the market in coming months, supports the entire gamut of applications from both Google and Jio, as well as Andriod PlayStore through which users will have access to the full universe of Andriod apps. “This is a testimony to a global technology giant and a national technology champion working jointly to make a break-through product... that can be first introduced in India… and then taken to the rest of the world,” Ambani said. Jio has democratised digital connectivity in India, offering the highest quality, most affordable 4G broadband services in the world.

“Sundar (Google CEO Sundar Pichai) and I had talked about Google and Jio co-developing a next-generation, featurerich, but extremely affordable smartphone… aimed at providing first-time internet access for 2G users,” Ambani said while making the JioPhone Next announcement on Thursday. Pichai said an optimised version of its Android OS has been developed especially for this device. “It will offer language and translation features, a great camera, and support for the latest Android updates. “It’s built for India and it will open up new possibilities for millions of new users, who will experience the internet for the first time. And, we can’t wait to show you the device later this year,” he said.

State revenues set to top prepandemic heights this year New Delhi, Jun 24 (IANS): Revenues of India’s top 10 states, which plunged 600 basis points (bps) last fiscal, are set to exceed the pre-pandemic or fiscal 2020 - levels by 600 bps this fiscal. The recovery would be driven by higher tax buoyancy, rise in sales tax collections from petroleum products (such as petrol and diesel) coupled with increase in grants as per the recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission. The increased revenue for states would come even as their demand for GST compensation from the centre remains high. The centre is anticipating a Rs 1.58 lakh crore shortfall in GST compensation cess due to states in FY22, a number which several states feel would remain short of covering the shortfall in indirect tax collections during the year. A CRISIL Ratings study of 10 states that account for 70 per cent of aggregate gross state domestic product indicates to the buoyancy in state tax collections this year. Aggregate Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections, which account for a fifth of the revenues of states, had recovered well in the fourth quarter of last fiscal as economic activity sprung back. The momentum continues this fiscal, with April and May collections averaging Rs 0.93 lakh crore, marking an 11 per cent growth over fiscal 2020. Says Manish Gupta, Senior Director, CRISIL Ratings, “While the second

wave of the pandemic may moderate GST collections in June and July, we expect a recovery to pre-pandemic levels by August. CRISIL expects India’s GDP to grow 9.5 per cent this fiscal which should assist GST collections to marginally better the prepandemic levels.” Another factor that will provide a fillip to state revenues is sales tax. The price of crude oil has risen to $70 per barrel versus $60 on average in fiscal 2020, leading to higher fuel (petrol and diesel) prices. That, combined with the Rs 10-13 per litre increase in central excise imposed last year, will increase the taxable value of fuel

LAND FOR SALE Old Showuba Area

Four Lane touched 43,200 sq. ft. Per Sq. Ft. Rs. 370/Near four lane 5 Puras Per Sq. Ft. 90/Mobile No. : 9856603713 9612242850 DP-2885

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for levy of sales tax (which accounts for 10 per cent of state revenues). Most of these 10 states had hiked sales tax on fuel sales by 6-7 per cent (Rs 1.5-1.8 per litre) last fiscal. Consequently, the ratings agency expects sales tax revenue for states to increase 30 per cent this fiscal from fiscal 20 levels, even as fuel volume remains 2-3 per cent lower than the prepandemic levels. The price of crude oil is seen hovering at $70 per barrel on average this fiscal.

FOR SALE Alto 800, 2013 Tip–Top Condition Insurance NL-01, Kohima Contact : 9862242525

K-1082

Su doku

New Delhi, Jun 24 (PTI): Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani on Thursday said Jio and Google have jointly developed a power-packed and affordable smartphone ‘JioPhone Next’, which will be available in the market from September 10. Ambani promised that JioPhone Next will be the most affordable smartphone not just in India but globally. Speaking at RIL’s annual general meeting, Ambani asserted that an ultraaffordable 4G smartphone is essential to make India ‘2G-mukt’ (free of 2G). The country still has nearly 300 million mobile users who are unable to escape from inefficient and exorbitant 2G services since most basic 4G smartphone remain unaffordable for users, he added. “I am pleased to an-

NPA GOLD LOAN - SALE NOTICE This is to notify that the following Gold Loan accounts has turned NPA. 1. Name : Gopal Rai Address : Deep Jewellers, Near Dhobinala, Midland Pwd Road, Dimapur, Nagaland -797112 Account No. : 11886100038586 Loan Amount : 30000 Loan Availed Date : 20-01-2020 2. Name : Unnikrishna Kurup Address : H/No- 22, Duncan Bosti, Ward 2505000.00dimapur Mc, Dimapur, Nagaland - 797112 Account No. : 11886100038669 Loan Amount : 35500 Loan Availed Date : 11-02-2020 3. Name : Rajeev Kumar Sonar Address : Kathmandu Jewellery, G S Road Pnb Dimapur, Nagaland - 797112 Account No. : 11886100038776 Loan Amount : 38000 Loan Availed Date : 21-03-2020 If the mentioned Gold Loan is not closed on or before 28th June, 2021 the bank shall sell off the gold ornaments and close the NPA account with the proceeds of the sale. This is the last and final call to the customer to repay/ renew the account. The Federal Bank, Nyamo Lotha Road, Dimapur, Contact : 9496320731, 9706518758

DC-514

Crossword

policies will remain accommodative but new stimulus “will not be forthcoming”. “The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to focus its policy efforts on quantity channels rather than interest rate changes. Inflation is now running hot at above 6 per cent, the upper end of the central bank target range, meaning the RBI has no room to cut interest rates.” “Fiscal policy is constrained by limited policy space, particularly because the budget for fiscal 2022 (ending March 31, 2022), which was decided before the second Covid-19 wave, had already targeted a large general government deficit of 9.5 per cent of GDP.” In addition, the agency said that permanent damage to private and public sector balance sheets will constrain growth over the next couple of years.

DP-2858

However, it cited that manufacturing and exports were less severely affected compared with 2020, but services were acutely disrupted. “Consumption indicators such as vehicle sales fell sharply in May 2021 and consumer confidence remains downbeat.” “The economy has turned a corner now. New Covid-19 cases have been falling consistently and mobility is recovering. We expect this recovery to be less steep compared with the bounce in late 2020 and early 2021.” Besides, the agency pointed out that households are running down saving buffers to support consumption and a desire to rebuild saving could hold back spending even as the economy reopens. Furthermore, it said that monetary and fiscal

DP-2859(B)

New Delhi, June 24 (IANS): Ratings agency S&P Global Ratings on Thursday lowered India’s economic growth forecast to 9.5 per cent for this fiscal from an earlier prediction of 11 per cent. According to the ratings agency, India’s growth in fiscal 2023 (ending March 31, 2023) will likely come in at 7.8 per cent. “A gradual revival is underway after a severe second Covid-19 outbreak in April and May led to lockdowns across much of the country and to a sharp contraction in economic activity,” S&P Global Ratings said in a report. “The lockdowns were more targeted compared with the blanket national lockdown seen last year but were still enough to lower discretionary mobility to more than 60 per cent below normal.”

30 Myanmar troops killed in Sagaing clashes

Anti-coup protest in Monywa of Sagaing region.

houses along the highway and the adjoining forests. They are opening fire indiscriminately,” the commander said, adding he anticipated much civilian casualties in these random firings. Armed clashes between the junta troops and resistance fighters started in the area on April 2. Several thousand villagers in Kani township have fled their homes.

Meanwhile, two police officers were reportedly killed by the civilian resistance Zero Guerilla Force during a raid on a security outpost in Mandalay region’s Nagzon township on Tuesday night. Zero Force commander U Lwin told IANS that 25 fighters raided the Min Nay Gon outpost. During the 20-minute firefight, two officers, including a police captain,

Last Apple Daily newspaper edition sold out across H K

People queue up for last issue of Apple Daily at a newspaper booth in Hong Kong on June 24. (AP file photo)

arrests of the newspaper employees — and revamped Hong Kong’s election laws to keep opposition voices out of the legislature. “This is our last day, and last edition, does this reflect the reality that Hong Kong has started to lose its press freedom and freedom of speech?” said an Apple Daily graphic designer, Dickson Ng. “Why does

NZ police seize $353 mn from criminals

Wellington, Jun 24 (IANS): The New Zealand government has reached a significant milestone with NZ$500 million ($353 million) in cash and assets seized from gangs and criminals over the past four years, Police Minister Poto Williams said on Thursday. “Gangs should not be making money from exploiting our communities,”

Williams said. He added that the government will not tolerate organized crime and gangs and is working hard to disrupt them, reports Xinhua news agency. “Today’s milestone furthers our commitment to hitting gangs where it hurts - their pockets,” the Minister said. Williams claimed that

Israel’s new government OKs first settlement construction

Israelis are seen at the outpost of Eviatar near the northern West Bank town of Nablus, Monday. ( AP).

Jerusalem, Jun 24 (AP): An Israeli defense ministry body advanced plans for 31 West Bank settlement construction projects Wednesday, the first such move under the country’s new government. The plans approved by the Civil Administration include a shopping center, a special needs school and a number of infrastructure projects and zoning changes in existing West Bank settlements, Israeli media reported. Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s new government was sworn in earlier this month, unseating longtime leader Benjamin Netanyahu after four deadlocked elections. His governing coalition is comprised of eight

parties representing a wide spectrum of political positions, from Jewish ultranationalists to liberal factions and a small Islamist party. Most of the international community considers Israeli settlement construction illegal under international law and an obstacle to peace with the Palestinians. Since Israel captured the territory in the 1967 Mideast war, it has constructed dozens of settlements in the West Bank, where more than 400,000 Israelis live alongside nearly 3 million Palestinians. The Palestinians seek the West Bank as the heartland of a future independent state. Peace talks between the two parties have been stalled for years.

in the last four years alone, approximately NZ$1.6 billion have been removed from the illicit economy. The government will also amend the Proceeds of Crime legislation so those involved in organized crime would have to demonstrate their assets were obtained through legitimate means or lose them, the Police Minister said.

Kabul, Jun 24 (IANS): A total of 130 Taliban militants surrendered to the Afghan government in Herat province on Thursday, a local government spokesperson confirmed. The former militants surrendered to the personnel of provincial directorate of National Directorate of Security (NDS), the country’s national intelligence agency, spokesperson Jilani Farhad told Xinhua news agency. They also brought 85 AK-47 guns, five PK guns, five rounds of rocket propelled grenade launchers together with amount of ammunition, he said. With the former insurgents’ surrender, peace and stability would be further strengthened in Herat, the official said.

Biden unveils new anti-crime strategy

Washington, Jun 24 (IANS): US President Joe Biden has launched a new crime prevention strategy amid soaring gun violence across the country, focusing on illegal sale of firearms, law-breaking dealers and better community support. “Crime historically rises during the summer and as we emerge from this pandemic, with the country opening back up again, the traditional summer spike may even be more pronounced than it traditionally would be,” Biden said in a speech from the White House on Wednesday. “Folks, this (gun violence) shouldn’t be a red or

Joe Biden

blue issue... It’s an American issue,” he added. The President said that cities and states can use their portions of $350 billion in direct aid from the Covid-19 rescue plan, which was approved by Congress in March, to enhance public safety, including hiring more police

officers and other law enforcement officials. Public schools can also use their share of $122 billion in rescue money in community violence intervention programs and other public safety strategies, Biden said. “This is not a time to turn our backs on law enforcement or our communities,” said the president, distancing himself from progressive calls for “defunding the police”. Under the plan, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives will revoke federal licenses of gun dealers the first time they violate the federal law.

OFFICE OF THE

KEVIJAU COLONY COUNCIL Regd. No. Rev.-53/1970/13267-68, Dt. 30/10/1972 Dimapur - 797112 : Nagaland

APOLOGY

APPRECIATION The Kevija-u Colony Council would like to convey our sincere gratitude to Government of Nagaland, Chief Medical Officer, District Hospital Dimapur and its medical staff who render services for two occasions in COVID vaccination in our colony, though the Kevija-u Colony is having more the 1800 house holds with no dispensary or health centre in our colony, they have avail us the vaccination from our colony council hall. The Kevija-u council also further convey our gratitude to Dimapur District Administration, IOC Depot Manager, Depot Manager FCI, Bengali Samaj Dimapur, Yimkhong TV and Mhaleu Metha in collaboration with Naga youtubers, Dimapur Bongs, Rajesh Shety, KV Gupta, G Yanchand Jain, Maruti Mill and Lahit Jain for providing us relief to the needy and daily bread earner of the colony members during this COVID pandemic lockdown.

OFFICE OF THE

Chairman Kevija-u Colony Council Dimapur, Nagaland

DP-2911

OFFICE OF THE

TSARU SURO UNION

KOHIMA OKOTSO UNION

NAMCHONG BÜHÜ PANGTHAI, KOHIMA

KOHIMA : NAGALAND FELICITATION

Motto: Growing Together

Dimapur-797112 : Nagaland

FELICITATION

Tsarü Suro Union Dimapur with immense pleasure express our heartfelt congratulations to Shri. Thsarise Sangtam, S/o Thepongse Sangtam for being promoted to the post of Dy. Director, Directorate of School Education, and Smti. Temjenkala Sangtam, D/o Tinglise Sangtam for being promoted to the post of SDEO Tuensang. The Union further wishes the best for their future endeavours.

With immense pride and honor, we the Namchong Bühü Pangthai Kohima would like to congratulate Shri B. Patong Phom, S/o Late K. Bongyap Yanpai on being promoted to the post of Joint Director under the Department of Art & Culture, Nagaland, Kohima. The Union further wishes and prays to Almighty God to continue to guide and bless him in all his future endeavor. H. Baüong S. Atok Yanpai President Secretary Namchong Bühü Pangthai Namchong Bühü Pangthai Kohima Kohima

President (Y. Tako Anar)

G/Secy (Yashi) OFFICE OF THE

KONYAK STUDENTS’ UNION

P.B. No. 5, Hq. Mon-Pin-798621, Nagaland Regd. No. RS/1816

Mob. No +91 7085910943 & +91 9862583205 Email ID: ksuofficialmon@gmail.com

FELICITATION

The Konyak Students' Union with immense pride and honour, felicitates Ms. Manno Wangnao, D/o B Tingkap Wangnao from Tizit village for winning Festisov Journalism Award (FJA-2020) in contribution to Civil Rights category. The Union would like to convey hearty congratulations and further thank her for being an inspiration. The Union also wishes her success in her future endeavours. (T NOKLEM KONYAK) President

John McAfee (File)

who opened an investigation to determine the cause of death, a spokeswoman for Catalonia’s justice ministry told AFP on Thursday. “There was a death which suggested suicide but confirmation must come through the autopsy,” she told AFP, saying it could be a matter of days before a post-mortem would be carried out. According to an indictment filed in a US court, McAfee was alleged to have deliberately failed to file tax returns between 2014 and 2018, despite earning millions from consulting work, cryptocurrencies and selling the rights to his life story. If convicted, he could

have faced up to 30 years in prison. McAfee was found dead just hours after a Spanish court said it had approved his extradition to the United States in a decision that could have been appealed. According to the US extradition request filed in November and quoted in the ruling, McAfee earned more than 10 million euros ($12 million) in 2014-18, but never filed a tax return. “To conceal his income and assets from the Internal Revenue Service... the defendant ordered part of his income to be paid to straw men and placed the property in their names,” it said. Since making a fortune in the 1980s with the antivirus software that still bears his name, McAfee had become a self-styled cryptocurrency guru, claiming to make $2,000 a day. McAfee in 1987 founded the computer security software company and ran it for seven years before resigning.

A write up under the title “The very sad demise of Nganga Yanthan” became viral after it was posted on the internet. The issue was created as a result of a mix up in a blood donors group where an immediate need for blood for two different individuals was uploaded at a same time, followed by a ‘Wrong’ narration from the husband of the deceased in a state of grief. The writer wholeheartedly & humbly apologizes to the MS and staff of Dr. MMDH Wokha Town, the Covid Warriors & their families for the embarrassment and defamation caused in spite of their sacrifices. Sd/- Tongmhi Jenithung Wokha Town WC-120

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found in mainland China and accusing them of reneging on a promise to protect them for 50 years after the 1997 handover from Britain. The pressure on the paper — and Hong Kong’s civil liberties — increased after authorities responded to massive protests in 2019 with a sweeping national security law — used in the

it have to end up like this? Why is there not going to be the Apple (Daily) newspaper any more in Hong Kong?” To a big applause, associate publisher Chan Puiman told staff who gathered around the newsroom Wednesday night: “You’ve done a great job, everyone!” Apple Daily printed 1 million copies for the final edition, up from the usual 80,000. While prodemocracy media outlets still exist online, it was the only print newspaper of its kind left in the city. On Wednesday night, over 100 people stood outside Apple Daily’s office building in the rain to show their support, as employees worked on the final edition, taking photographs and shouting words of encouragement.

(TAWANG KONYAK) Asst. General Secretary

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Hong Kong, Jun 24 (AP): Across Hong Kong, people lined up early Thursday to buy the last print edition of the last remaining pro-democracy newspaper. By 8:30 a.m., Apple Daily’s final edition of 1 million copies was sold out across most of the city’s newsstands. The newspaper said it would cease operations after police froze $2.3 million in assets, searched its office and arrested five top editors and executives last week, accusing them of foreign collusion to endanger national security — another sign Beijing is tightening its grip on the semi-autonomous city. In recent years, the newspaper has become increasingly outspoken, criticizing Chinese and Hong Kong authorities for limiting the city’s freedoms not

130 Taliban militants surrender in Afghanistan

Madrid, Jun 24 (AGENCIES/AP): The body of the 75-year-old founder of the anti-virus pioneer was discovered around 7 pm on Wednesday in his cell in the Brians 2 penitentiary near Barcelona. The body of the 75year-old founder of the antivirus McAfee software was discovered at around 7 pm on Wednesday in his cell in the Brians 2 penitentiary near Barcelona in what a prison service spokeswoman said was a death “apparently from suicide”. Spanish investigators Thursday probed the death of John McAfee who was found in his prison cell after an apparent suicide following a court decision approving his extradition to the US on tax evasion charges. Catalan legal officials confirmed it was McAfee, who had been held at the facility since his arrest in early October 2020 as he was about to board a flight to Istanbul. His body was taken away by judicial officials

APPRECIATION

ANTA Wokha Unit conveys its deepest appreciation to DC Wokha and Chairman DDMA, Orenthung Lotha, for his kind gesture towards our Taxi drivers who were going through untold miseries due to COVID lockdown. The Association acknowledges your concern and thank you for allotting 150 rations on June 18 at Tiyi Hall for distribution among the most affected Taxi drivers. The Association is also highly indebted to ADC Wokha and Administrator WTC, T Lankonsen Tsanglao, for distributing 5 solar streetlights to ANTA Wokha Unit which are now illuminating the Taxi counters of our town. Further, ANTA Wokha Unit conveys its sincere gratitude towards Mr. Nyanbemo Patton, Proprietor, Wokha Hardware for donating sand for use during installation of the solar streetlights. Sd/President, ANTA Wokha Unit WC-119

The Kohima Okotso Union with great honor and joy would like to congratulate Shri. Oponthung Shitiri on being promoted to the post of Brigadier GPRN(U). The Union further prays for good health and success in his future endeavours. L.N. Merry Mhabemo Lotha Chairman Secretary

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on the Monywa-Kalaywa highway. About 20 junta troops were killed in the explosions and the gunfire from resistance fighters, according to Aung Gyi. He told IANS that angry soldiers burned down eight houses near Bant Bway in retaliation. Aung Gyi said about 100 troops were now combing the forests around the sites of the encounters. “They are searching all

were killed and the resistance fighters managed to retreat without casualties, U Lwin said. Fifteen police officers were left unharmed. Zero Guerilla Force has attacked junta forces in Myingyan township, Mandalay, on several occasions. On June 18, it shot dead a traffic police officer. An army major and captain were shot dead by the group in the town on May 27 and June 3. “We fight injustice. We will never accept the military regime. We have vowed to fight everything juntarelated,” said Lwin . Nine civilians, including a family of six, were detained by junta forces during a house raid in Monywa township, Sagaing, on Monday. After being accused of supplying the People’s Defense Forces (PDF), tutor U Tin Myint Soe and his five family members, including a six-year-old girl, were detained along with three house guests by the junta forces during the Aye Tharyar Ward raid.

Spain opens probe into John McAfee’s death inside prison

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Kolkata, Jun 24 ( IANS): At least 30 Myanmar troops were reportedly killed during two fierce encounters with civilian resistance fighters in Kani and Yinmabin townships in the Sagaing region bordering northeast India. On Tuesday, around 1,000 civilian resistance fighters using homemade hunting rifles attacked about 60 junta troops deployed at the Tayaw Kyin village beside the Monywa-Kalaywa Highway, local residents told IANS. The village, located on the border of the two townships, was raided by the Myanmar troops in search for hidden weapons. During the six-hour shoot-out, about 10 troops were killed, commander of a local resistance force, Aung Gyi told IANS. On Wednesday evening, 60 soldiers sent to reinforce the original raiding party was ambushed as the detachment headed out of Monywa towards the village. The reinforcements hit five locally made landmines

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

Beneficiaries thank Shri Metsubo Jamir

We, the COVID -19 affected families of Aongza Ward, Mokokchung, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our Hon’ble Minister for RD, Shri Metsubo Jamir and his family for reaching out to our needs in the time of this unprecedented pandemic in the society. This second wave of the COVID-19 had adversely affected our livelihood and we were deeply worried as to how to survive this human tragedy. However, as a true leader who loves his people, Shri Metsubo Jamir and his family understood our needs and provided the much needed household provisions to the many COVID affected families irrespective of tribe, community or religion. Their benevolent act has greatly assuaged our distress especially at a time like this when we did not have anyone to turn to. Our hearts are full of thankfulness and we pray Almighty God to bless our Hon’ble Minister and his family abundantly. Sd/1. Moayanger. 2. Basenta. 3. Pangersunep. 4. Shilulemba. 5. Chidenla Khiamniungan. 6. Pusa Hrangkhawl. 7. Chubasenla Sangtem. 8. Riyus Muhammad.

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Infotainment

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

120,000-year-old fossils discovered Malaria tracker launched to help affected Commonwealth nations in Israel link to human family tree A Tel Aviv University dental anthropologist Rachel Sarig, a coauthor of the paper published Thursday in the journal Science.

ones found in an Israeli quarr y are from a branch of the human evolutionary tree and are 120,000 to 140,000 years old, scientists reported Thursday. A team of anthropologists spent years analyzing the fragments of a skull, lower jaw bone and tooth that were uncovered in Nesher Ramla in 2010, comparing them to hundreds of fossils around the world from different eras. The researchers deter-

mined that the fossils likely came from a hominin group closely related to Neanderthals and sharing many of their features, such as the shape of the lower jaw. The scientists also believe that there are enough similarities to link this group to other populations found in prior cave excavations in Israel dating to around 400,000 years ago. “The teeth have some unique features that enable us to draw a line between these populations,” said

This group probably inhabited the region from around 400,000 to 100,000 years ago, said Tel Aviv University physical anthropologist Israel Hershkovitz, another co-author. He said the remains found at Nesher Ramla are likely from “some of the last survivors of a once very dominant group in the Middle East.” Prior research has shown that homo sapiens – modern humans – also lived in the region at the same time. Many scientists believe that the arrival of homo sapiens in Europe presaged the decline of Neanderthals there, but the story may have been different in the Levant region — the crossroads between North Africa and Eurasia. The new findings add to research showing that homo sapiens and Neanderthal-like groups overlapped in the Middle East over a significant amount of time, probably tens of thousands of years. There were likely cultural and ge-

Winston Marshall quits Mumford and Sons

inston Marshall is leaving Mumford & Sons. The 33-yearold musician has announced that he will leave the folk rock band after 14 years as he was embroiled in controversy earlier this year for praising a book by right-wing journalist Andy Ngo. Winston posted a lengthy message on Medium where he recalled his time with the ‘I Will Wait’ band – which also consists of Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett and Ted Dwane - and said that it had been “no easy decision” to leave. The banjoist wrote: “I loved t h o s e first tours. Bouncing off a

sweaty stage in an Edinburgh catacomb we then had to get to a gig in Camden by lunch the next day. “We couldn’t fit all four of us and Ted’s double-bass into the VW Polo. I think it was Ben who drew the shortstraw and had to follow by train with his keyboard. I remember blitzing it down the M6 through the night, the lads asleep beside me. “We made it but my voice sadly didn’t, completely shot by exhaustion, I had to mime my harmonies. Being in Mumford & Sons was exhilarating.” Winston admits that the Twitter storm contributed to his decision to leave the group, after previously revealing that he would be taking a break. He wrote: “From odysseys through the Scottish Islands to headling Glastonbury, from The Betsy Trotwood to Madison Square Garden. We’ve done it all. “What a blessing it was to be so close to such talent as those three lads. I will look back at it all with immense pride and love. However, after much reflection and consideration, I have decided it is time to move on. “This is a difficult decision first brought about by an unintentional Twitter storm.” (Contactmusic)

This undated photo provided by Tel Aviv University in June 2021 shows a human ancestor mandible and skull discovered in Neher Ramla, Israel. On Thursday, June 24, 2021, scientists reported that the bones found in a quarry are from a branch of the human evolutionary tree and are 120,000 to 140,000 years old. (Avi Levin and Ilan Theiler, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University via AP)

netic exchanges between the groups, the paper authors suggest. “The Neanderthal story can no longer be told as a European story only. It’s a much more complicated story,” said Hershkovitz. Sheela Athreya, a Texas A&M University paleoanthropologist who was not involved in the study, said the new research “gives us a lot to think about in terms of the history of population groups in this region, and how they may have interacted with populations in other regions, in Europe and North Africa.” The Nesher Ramla fossils “look like something on a lineage heading toward Neanderthal,” said Eric Delson, a paleoanthropologist at Lehman College in New York who was not involved in the study. He characterized the findings as “fossils of what appears to be an intermediate variety — this group may be predecessors to Neanderthals in this area.” (Associated Press)

Chris Pratt discusses his role in the upcoming thriller ‘The Tomorrow War’

ollywood actor Chris Pratt, who stars in and makes his debut as an executive producer in the upcoming sci-fi action thriller “The Tomorrow War”, reveals why he was interested in playing Dan Forester in the film. “I just loved it from beginning to end,” Pratt says, adding: “It’s a fantastic original concept filled with humour and heart, but it’s also a gigantic movie with a ton of action and visual spectacle. Best of all, it’s grounded in real relationships. I have to confess, making

a film where I get to fight aliens and save the world while cracking the occasional joke is right in my wheelhouse.” The actor found it cool to be part of the process and give his input as a producer. “(Director) Chris McKay and his team of designers and visual effects artists pioneered incredible new technologies to bring the creatures to life in this movie, and it was extremely cool to be part of that process and give my input as an executive producer along the way,” he says. (IANS)

new tracker has been launched to help Commonwealth countries monitor progress towards halving malaria cases by 2023 and ultimately eradicating the disease by 2030. Developed by a group of malaria experts and the Commonwealth Secretariat, the tracker was due to be launched this week at the Kigali Summit on Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases taking place on the margins of the nowpostponed Commonwealth Heads of Gover nment Meeting (CHOGM). The tracker supports a new report on progress towards the malaria commitment made by Commonwealth leaders in 2018 to halve malaria across endemic countries by 2023. This reduction would prevent millions of malaria cases and save thousands of lives. The report shows significant progress with nearly one-third of malariaendemic Commonwealth countries on track to halve their case incidence and mortality rate from the disease by the end of 2019. Despite country-level progress, as a grouping, the Commonwealth is currently not on track to reach the 50 per cent reduction target. The report calls on countries to accelerate action in the coming years to reach the historic target in the face of severe disruptions in malaria services caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Ahead of the launch, Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral Patricia Scotland said: “Although Covid-19

has seized the world’s attention and resources, it is equally important for us to maintain focus on our prepandemic commitments and also sustain gains in malaria and other health conditions. “Allowing ourselves to be distracted would result in irreparable damage to major health gains and human security.” Last month, the tracker and report were presented at the annual meeting of Commonwealth Health Ministers, who endorsed both resources in their joint statement and agreed to accelerate action on the halving target as well as on their regional and global commitments to end malaria by 2030. After the meeting, Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Daniel Ngamige said: “It is clear from discussions at the Health Ministers meeting that we must get back on track to meet the commitment to halve malaria by 2023 and accelerate progress towards elimination in line with our global and regional commitments will be vital.”

Investment in defeating malaria will not only save 217,000 lives in the Commonwealth ever y year, he added, but will also have an add-on effect on strengthening overall health systems that are well equipped to tackle outbreaks and protect all citizens. “Rwanda is committed to lead by example in reducing the Commonwealth’s malaria burden. To achieve this, we need a constant dialogue between states and partners on how we can learn from each other on defeating malaria. “We look forward to working with our Commonwealth partners to ensure the next CHOGM is a key milestone, both for our mutual accountability on the commitment and accelerating progress on defeating malaria,” Ngamige added. The digital tracker offers an interactive display to assist member governments in monitoring targets in graphs and maps as well as in identifying areas for improvement. (IANS)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT WE ARE CONFIDENT, I SAY, AND WOULD PREFER TO BE AWAY FROM THE BODY AND AT HOME WITH THE LORD:

2 CORINTHIANS 5:8

Noted still photographer and filmmaker Sivan passes away “YOU WERE GONE BEFORE WE KNEW IT AND ONLY GOD KNOWS WHY. IN LIFE WE LOVED YOU DEARLY, IN DEATH WE LOVE YOU STILL. IN OUR HEARTS YOU HOLD A PLACE THAT ONLY YOU CAN FILL”

eteran still photographer and film-maker Sivan died on Thursday, family sources said. He was 89. Noted film-makers Sangeeth Sivan, Santhosh Sivan and Sanjeev Sivan are his sons. “It’s with great sadness that I share with you all d tragic news that my father, Mr Sivan, breathed his last today,” Sangeeth Sivan, his son and noted film director, posted on Facebook. Sivan was the first press photographer in Kerala. He was also the still photographer of the classic Malayalam movie Chemmeen which was released in 1965. Sivan directed Abhayam in 1991, which bagged the national film award for the Best ChilK Y M C

dren’s film. Abhayam, Yagam, Mohangal, Kilivaathil, Keshu, Oru Yathra are among his notable works. “He was our inspiration & role model. What he accomplished was achieved through hard work, dedication, discipline & foresight. Am sure he would continue to guide us on our onward journey. Forever indebted & will always be in our hearts. Love you Dad for everything & I m sure you will be watching over us from your place among d clouds & stars. Om Shanthi,” Sangeeth Sivan posted on Facebook. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, Assembly Speaker M B Rajesh and other politicians condoled the death of Sivan. (Firstpost)

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SOHILE ANGELA KATH KENT

BORN : 14-02-1981 – DIED : 10-06-2021 Her life here on Earth is done, but she lives on in our memories. Words fall short to convey our sincere appreciation to everyone who sent a prayer, cards, flowers or made a call and for all the physical and financial support during our moment of grief. We deeply regret our inability to mention each and every individual but we would like to convey our heartfelt thanks & gratitude to: 1. Tseminyu Union Dimapur 2. Tseminyu Fellowship Dimapur 3. Holy Cross Parish Dimapur 4. Rengma Catholic Community Dimapur 5. Dimapur Rengma Baptist Church 6. Eden Hospital Doctors & nurses 7. District Hospital Peren 8. Excel Health Care Guwahati 9. Tesophenyu Catholic Community Dimapur 10. St. Joseph Church Tseminyu Village 11. Naga Council Dimapur 12. St. Teresa Church Tseminyu Town 13. Tseminyu Village Baptist Church 14. Tseminyu Village Council 15. Rengma Sports Association 16. Rengma Catholic Women Association 17. Tesophenyu Group Women Fellowship 18. Dimapur Rengma Youth Organisation 19. Mezarhi Kent Tsipwen 20. Kekhe Kemvu Logwa

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Loving Husband, Son, Family & Parents, Brothers, Sister and loved Ones K Y M C

COPA AMERICA: Casemiro scores winning goal for Brazil

RIO DE JANEIRO/GOIANIA, JUN 24 (AGENCIES): Casemiro scored deep into stoppage time to give hosts Brazil a controversial 2-1 win over Colombia in the Copa America. An acrobatic volley by Luis Diaz gave Colombia an early lead in their final Group B game in Rio de Janeiro. Roberto Firmino’s late equaliser was allowed to stand despite the ball hitting the referee moments earlier, sparking lengthy protests by Colombia. And in the 10th minute of added time, Casemiro headed in from a Neymar corner to maintain Brazil’s 100% record. Brazil were struggling to draw level when Neymar’s wayward pass forward struck Nestor Pitana, who took charge of the 2018 World Cup final. The Argentine referee put his whistle to his mouth but allowed play to continue once Lucas Paqueta had played the ball wide to Renan Lodi, whose first-time cross was headed in by Liverpool forward Firmino. There was a lengthy stoppage as Colombia players remonstrated with Pitana, before and after the video assistant referee let the goal stand. The rules state that if the ball touches the referee and goes directly into the goal, results in a change

Peru rally to earn 2-2 draw with Ecuador

Brazil’s players celebrates their side’s 2nd goal scored by Casemiro during a Copa Match in progress between Peru and Ecuador during the Copa America match. America match against Colombia at Nilton Santos stadium in Rio de Janeiro. (AP/PTI)

of possession or a promising attack, a dropped ball should be awarded. Neymar’s pass would have been intercepted by a Colombia player had it not struck the referee, yet six seconds later the ball was in their goal. “It’s sad that with all the effort we made against one of the best teams in the

world, we lost the match on a call like that,” said Colombia winger Juan Cuadrado, who crossed for Diaz’s stunning opener. “A referee with that much international experience, who’s refereed at the World Cup, makes a mistake and hurts the match. We never got past that play.”

Despite the defeat, Colombia will still progress into the quarter-finals along with Brazil, who stretched their winning run to 10 games and have already qualified as group winners. The hosts play their final group game against Ecuador in Goiania on Sunday (22:00 BST).

Peru came back from a two-goal deficit to keep alive their hopes of reaching the Copa America knockout phase with a 2-2 draw against Ecuador here. Celta Vigo midfielder Renato Tapia gifted Ecuador the perfect start by sliding the ball into his own net after a Pervis Estupinan cross from the left flank on Wednesday, reports Xin-

hua.

Ayrton Preciado doubled Ecuador’s lead on the stroke of half-time with a low finish following Damian Diaz’s curling 30-yard free kick from the right wing. Peru struck just after the restart through Gianluca Lapadula, who finished coolly when Christian Cueva’s defence-splitting pass left him one-on-one

British Grand Prix: Silverstone to have capacity crowd for July race L O N D O N, J U N 2 4 (AGENCIES): Silverstone will be allowed to have a full capacity crowd for the British Grand Prix on 18 July. The track can hold around 140,000 spectators, which will make it the largest crowd for a sporting event in the UK since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Lewis Hamilton said he was excited about the news but worried about the rise in Covid-19 cases in the UK. “The selfish side of me wants to see all these people here,” he said. “I like to err on the side of caution and slowly

build up, rather than go full pelt and using our British fans as a test.” All adults attending will have to be fully vaccinated and be in possession of a negative test for Covid. The rules for children have not yet been revealed. The UK has experienced a rise in cases in recent days as a result of the rise of a more infectious Covid variant known as “delta” - 16,135 new cases were recorded on Wednesday. Britain’s Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, added: “I don’t want to turn it into a negative. I am excited to see so

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

Photo for representation

many people. “But I turned on the news this morning and have been watching it these past days and I know that UK rates have increased since people are loosening up a little and not everyone is vaccinated and I do

worry about people. But I read that the vaccination is good, there are fewer people in hospital. “It feels a bit premature to me. But it’s not my place. I hope we learn something from it and I hope everyone stays safe,

keeps their mask on. “I”m not in politics, and I’m not in government. There has been lots of confusing things coming from government over time and I don’t understand it all.” F1 president Stefano Domenicali said the development was “fantastic news”. The move follows large crowds being permitted for the final matches

of Euro 2020, Wimbledon and the Open golf tournament. Capacity at Wembley will be raised to 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020, Wimbledon will start at 50% capacity on 28 June before rising to a full 15,000 capacity for the men’s and women’s finals, while 32,000 spectators a day will be permitted at the Open.

with goalkeeper Hernan Galindez. Andre Carrillo put Peru on level terms five minutes later, slotting a firsttime shot past Galindez after combining with Lapadula. The result means Peru have four points from three matches while Ecuador have two points, with both teams having one group match left.

Murray selected for Tokyo 2020 Great Britain’s tennis team

L O N D O N, J U N 2 4 (AGENCIES): Two-time defending champion Andy Murray has been selected for Great Britain’s tennis team at the Tokyo Olympics. Murray, 34, will play in the men’s singles alongside Dan Evans and team up with Joe Salisbury in the doubles. There is no place for doubles specialist Jamie Murray in Team GB while Heather Watson and Johanna Konta will compete in the women’s singles. The games, postponed in 2020 because of the pandemic, take place in Japan’s capital from 23 July to 8 August. Andy Mur ray has been finding his way at the top level after hip and groin injuries and the two-time Wimbledon champion is set to play a singles game at the All England Club next week for the first time since 2017. The for mer world number one, now ranked 119, is the only tennis player to win singles gold at consecutive Olympics. At London 2012 the Scot also won silver in the mixed doubles alongside Laura Robson. “The Olympics mean a huge amount to me, it’s a massive honour to be able to compete at a fourth games,” he said.

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE I on behalf of all the Ex-PAN extend our utmost condolence to the family members of Shri Yesheto, Ex- Minister, who passed away on 22nd June 2021. Our Ex-Minister was one of the foremost leaders among the Nagas. He was an upright leader with stability, courage and man of principle and was a chosen leader in our society. He has served the people as minister, as well as in the party and many social organisations. His works are all commendable and admirable. The loss of our precious leader is loss to our society and beyond replaceable. Last but not the least we pray for his soul to rest in peace and for his families to be blessed by Almighty. S HUKAVI ZHIMOMI Ex-Parliamentarian Zunheboto District Incharge DP-2906

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY of Lt. Inatovi (Ina) Swu

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Born on : 13/10/1972 – Died on : 16/06/2021 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

2nd Timothy 4:7

We, the bereaved family members would like to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all the organizations individuals, villages, churches, neighbors, friends, relatives and well wishers for your immense support who stood by us through prayers, spiritually, emotionally, materially, physically and financially at the sudden demise of our beloved Late Rosou Rhi. Your kind acts have strengthened us during this difficult time of grief and sorrow. We deeply regret our inability to thank each and every individual personally, but it is our humble prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly. DP-2905

Loving Wife, Children, Mother, Brothers & Relatives

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT LT. SELITONG SANGTAM President, Kiphire District GB’s Association 09th Oct, 1973 – 17th June, 2021 It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Late Selitong Sangtam, who went to be with the Lord. He will be fondly remembered by his wife and children, as well as numerous other family members and friends for his selfless love to his family and devoted service to the community. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their care, compassion, unceasing prayers and financial support till his last breath. We would also like to convey our sincere thanks to: 1. Doctor and nurses, Kiphire District Hospital. 2. Mary Medical and Raj Pharmacy, Kiphire. 3. Colonel Shri. Mohamed Zabiulla, SM Commandant, 7th Assam Rifles, Kiphire and all ranks & files for extending all the help and support during his illness and till his burial. 4. Dr. L. Singson 21/c (CMO), 7 Assam Rifles, Kiphire 5. Rev. Imdangmeren Jamir, Ao Baptist Arogo, Kiphire 6. Shri. V. Kashiho Sangtam, Honorable Minister Soil and Water Conservation, Geology and Mining and Chairman, NSMDC, Nagaland. 7. Shri. T. Yangseo Sangtam, Honorable MLA and Chairman DPDB. 8. Shri. Muthsasyi, S.P Kiphire 9. Shri. T. Lankonsen Tsanglao, A.D.C, Wokha 10. Er. S. I. Asangba and Athrila, A.D.C, Niuland 11. Rahul Mali (I.A.S) A.D.C, Kiphire 12. Shri. Kilem Jamir, SDPO, Kiphire 13. Shri. Aotemsu Jamir (IPS), Training, D.I.G, Dimapur 14. Shri. T. Kiritong Sangtam, Secy and Convenor, Central Executive Board 15. Shri. Imnalensa (IPS), S.P, Mon 16. United Sangtam Students’ Conference & Kiphire Area Students’ Union 17. United Sangtam Likhum Pumji (USLP) 18. Kiphire District G.B Association 19. G.B’s and DB’s Joint Forum, Kiphire 20. Langkok Union, Kiphire, Town 21. Langkok Baptist Lithro 22. Shri. Y. Litsase Sangtam, 2nd G.B, Kiphire 23. Shri. Yangseba, Kilonser, NSCN, (GPRN) 24. Kiphire Town Chamber of Commerce “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” Job 1:21 Loving wife, mother, children, brother, sister & relatives DP-2902

K Y M C

08/07/1978 – 25/06/2020

From Sunrise to Sunset, every moment would have been more wonderful if you were with us. Your memories will never be forgotten but we will forever remember you with silent tears. K-1076

Loving Wife, Sons & Family Members

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

LT. MOATEMSU YADEN (08/08/1972 – 14/06/2021) We, the bereaved family of Lt. Moatemsu Yaden, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to each and everyone of you who shared our grief and supported us with words of comfort, and through unceasing prayers and also financially, materially and physically, especially during these trying times of Covid's treats, where everyone is supposed to stay home and be safe. However, it is without any doubt that God Almighty is looking upon your selfless deeds and it is our sincere prayer that the Good Lord surely bless you abundantly. We wish to convey our special thanks to: 1. Doctors and nurses of Faith Hospital Dimapur 2. Merangkong Senso Telongjem Dimapur 3. Merangkong Godhula Mission Evangelist 4. Tuli Lenden Ao Baptist Arogo 5. Borbora Ward Committee, Tuli 6. Merachiba Memorial Govt. High School, Merangkong 7. Merangkong Employees Union DP-2910

Loving Family Members

Born : 15 January 1988 Died : 25 May 2021 We, the family of Late BENDANGCHUBA LONGKUMER of Settsü village would like to express our profound and heartfelt gratitude to all the relatives, friends, neighbours, individuals and well wishers for your immense love and unflinching support through prayers, physical and financial help during our time of grief and sorrow on his sudden demise. We deeply regret our inability to thank each and everyone individually, however we earnestly pray that our Good Lord bless you all abundantly. Loving Wife Feridia Zhimomi, Son and Family members MKC-171

LT. VIMHAZO KINTSO 12/09/1954 – 21/06/2021 We, the bereaved family members of Lt. Vimhazo Kintso would like to convey our gratitude to each and every individual who have stood by us through your generous financial assistance, physical presence, moral support and constant prayers. We are unable to repay your kind actions, but we pray that God bless each and everyone abundantly.

K-1080

Loving Children, Grandchildren, In-Laws and Relatives K Y M C

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021

Euro 2020: France, Portugal, Germany through to knockouts stage

BUDAPEST/MUNICH, JUN 24 (IANS): France and defending champions Portugal both qualified for the round-of-16 at the Euro 2020 after they played out a 2-2 draw in a thrilling match that saw three penalties given and scored. Before the game, the Euro 2016 winners only needed to avoid defeat to advance. Portugal would have finished on top had they won, and Germany lost. For France, they had secured a spot in the roundof-16 before the game, reports Xinhua. KylianMbappe almost put the 2018 World Cup winners France ahead in the 16th minute with a low shot, after collecting Paul Pogba’s accurate through ball, but the talented French player’s attempt was denied by Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio. The first of the spotkicks came when Hugo Lloris raced off his line to punch a cross clear but

France’s Antoine Griezman and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo fight for the ball during Germany’s Goretzka (L) celebrates after the equalising goal against Hungary during the Euro 2020 group F match on Thursday. the Euro 2020 group F match on Thursday.

caught Danilo first. The penalty was given, and Cristiano Ronaldo converted from the spot. Karim Benzema levelled for France with a penalty before the half break, after it was adjudged that Nelson Semedo had halted an off-the-ball run of KylianMbappe in the box.

Benzema was on target again shortly after halftime, beating the offside trap and firing a shot past Rui Patricio after receiving Pogba’s pass. In the 58th minute, Portugal was awarded the second penalty of the clash after the referee ruled a hand ball by Jules Kounde.

Ronaldo then beat Lloris again to take his tournament tally to five and equal the international goal-scoring record (109) held by Iran’s retired footballer Ali Daei. In the round of 16, Portugal will face Belgium and Group F toppers France will meet Switzerland.

Germany 2-2 Hungary

Substitute Leon Goretzka scored a last-gasp equaliser and secured Germany a spot in the last 16 following a 2-2 draw with resilient Hungary at the Football Arena Munich here. The Germans took the reins from the start and

were able to keep Hungary’s defence busy in the opening period on Wednesday. Hungary’s defence was able to soak up Germany’s pressure and frustrated the hosts with the opener against the run of

the game as Adam Szalai headed home a long ball into the penalty area with 11 minutes into the match, reports Xinhua. Germany remained in control but failed to create dangerous chances in the final third against Hun-

gary’s bulwark. Wi t h 2 1 m i nu t e s gone, Germany eventually reaped their first promising chance after Mats Hummels headed into the crossbar from close range. It remained Germany’s only noteworthy chance against the deep-defending visitors. After the break, Germany took over again but Kai Havertz’s effort on target was an easy task for Hungary goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi in the 52nd minute. As soon as Hungary approached Germany’s goal, they caused trouble as Szalai rattled the woodwork following a free-kick at the hour mark. Germany were finally able to level the scores with great assistance of Gulacsi, who underestimated a sweeping free-kick from Toni Kross, allowing Kai Havertz to head home into the open goal in the 66th minute.

Away goals rule scrapped in Trae Young leads Hawks to victory over Milwaukee Bucks UEFA including Champions League

L O N D O N, J U N 2 4 (AGENCIES): The away goals rule in European club football is to be abolished from the start of next season, governing body UEFA has confirmed. The rule, used since 1965, decided drawn twolegged games by favouring the team that scored the most away goals. All ties level on aggregate at the end of the second leg will instead go to extra time and potentially penalties. “It is no longer appropriate for an away goal

European competitions compared to when the rule was introduced, reducing home advantage. It says that is down to a number of factors including pitch quality, improved stadium infrastructure and new technology such as the video assistant referee. “The impact of the rule now runs counter to its original purpose as, in fact, it now dissuades home teams - especially in first legs - from attacking, because they fear conceding a goal that would give their opponents a crucial advantage,” Ceferin added. “There is also criticism of the unfairness, especially in extra-time, of obliging the home team to score twice when the away team has scored. “It is fair to say that home advantage is now no longer as significant as it once was.”

to carry more weight,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. UEFA’s club competitions committee made the proposal in May and it has now been approved by the body’s executive committee. It means games in the Champions League, Europa League, Europa Conference League and Women’s Champions League will no longer use the rule. UEFA says there is now a smaller gap between the number of home and away wins as well as home and away goals scored in

M I LWAU K E E , J U N 2 4 (AGENCIES): Trae Young scored 48 points as the Atlanta Hawks beat the Milwaukee Bucks 116-113 in the opening game of the NBA’s Eastern Conference finals. The Bucks missed five late shots as the Hawks come from four points down to win. Clint Capela put the Hawks 112-111 ahead with 29.8 seconds left and Young then netted four late free throws to shock the hosts. Game two in the best-ofseven series is scheduled for Friday in Milwaukee. Younghad 11 assists while Capela and John Collins also recorded double-doubles for the Hawks. Capela had 12 points and a game-high 19 rebounds, while Collins added 23 points and 15 rebounds. For the Bucks, who were unbeaten in five home games in their first two series, Giannis Antetokounmpo finished with 34 points and 12 rebounds while Jrue Holiday had 33

points and 10 assists. Young’s most impressive stretch came after Antetokounmpo had given Milwaukee a 65-58 lead in the second minute of the third period. Over the next eight minutes, he had two threepointers, three two-pointers and three assists in a 28-13 flurry that turned the score 86-78 Atlanta’s way. The Bucks chipped away, finally drawing even at 98-98 through Antetokounmpo with five minutes and 25 seconds to go - but Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young and Clint Capela celebrate after Game 1 of the NBA Eastern it was the Hawks who held Conference basketball finals game against the Milwaukee Bucks June 23. (AP) their nerve late on.

Buttler slams unbeaten 68 as England thrash SL nando was dismissed in the second over for a duck. Perera, along with Dasun Shanaka, tried to build the innings, but Adil Rashid dismissed the Sri Lanka skipper on 30 just when he had started looking dangerous.

Jos Buttler

C A R D I F F, J U N 2 4 (IANS): Jos Buttler smashed an unbeaten 55ball 68, while Sam Curran and Adil Rashid took two wickets each as England thrashed Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the opening T20 International to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series here. Chasing a 130-run target set by Sri Lanka, the England batsmen, led by Buttler, reached the target in the first ball of the 17th over with 17 balls remaining on Wednesday. England openers, Jason Roy and Buttler, took advantage of an inexperienced Sri Lanka bowling attack, scoring 61 runs in the first six overs of the power play. Buttler’s innings, with eight boundaries and a six, earned him the Player-ofthe-Match award. Sri Lanka skipper Kusal Perera won the toss and elected to bat. However, the visitors did not get off to a good start and Avishka Fer-

Wales vs Denmark

Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka’s only batsman to score a half century (50 off 44 balls), took the visitors to a fighting total. This was Shanaka’s second half-century of his T20I career. The second match will be played

here later on Thursday. Brief scores: Sri Lanka 129/7 in 20 overs (K. Perera 30, D. Shanaka 50; S. Curran 2/25, A. Rashid 2/17) lost to England 130/2 in 17.1 overs (J. Buttler 68 not out, J. Roy 36) by eight wickets.

ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES Croatia 9:30 PM, vs Sat 26 June Spain

9:30 PM, Mon 28 June

Italy vs Austria

12:30 AM, Sun 27 June

France vs Switzerland

12:30 AM, Tue 29 June

Netherlands vs Czech Republic

9:30 PM, Sun 27 June

England vs Germany

9:30 PM, Tue 29 June

Belgium vs Portugal

12:30 AM, Mon 28 June

Sweden vs Ukraine

12:30 AM, Wed 30 June

QUARTERFINALS

July 2, Friday QF1: Winner 6 vs Winner 5 (9:30 pm) July 3, Saturday QF2: Winner 4 vs Winner 2 (12:30 am)

July 3, Saturday QF3: Winner 3 vs Winner 1 (9:30 pm) July 4, Sunday QF4: Winner 8 vs Winner 7 (12:30 am)

SEMIFINALS

July 7, Wednesday SF1: Winner QF2 vs Winner QF1 (12:30 am)

July 8, Thursday SF2: Winner QF4 vs Winner QF3 (12:30 am)

FINAL July 12, Monday (12:30 am)

*(All timings are in IST)

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