April 28, 2021

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 141

DIMAPUR, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021 Pages 12 ` 5.00

IPL: RCB survive scare; beat DC by 1 run

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India adds 3.23L new Covid cases in single day ‘Indian strain’ of Covid spreads faster: Experts

Bodies lined up for cremation at Subhash Nagar Crematorium for the last rites, in New Delhi, Tuesday. (PTI)

NEW DELHI, APR 27 (PTI): With 3,23,144 people testing positive for the coronavirus in a day, India’s infection tally has climbed to 1,76,36,307, while the national recovery rate further dropped to 82.54 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

The death toll mounted to 1,97,894 with 2,771 new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

There has been a slight dip in the daily cases as compared to the number of

NSCN (I-M) reacts to Shah’s offer DIMAPUR, APR 27 (NPN): NSCN (I-M) has termed the expressed willingness of Union Home minister Amit Shah offer to chief minister Neiphiu Rio to “hoist the Naga flag on Naga Day”, if invited to the occasion, as “nothing less than an insult to the Naga people.”

NSCN (I-M) said “Nagas were blazing with indignation” at Shah’s offer as he was at the same time, against granting a separate Naga flag and constitution to the Nagas. NSCN (I-M) questioned how somebody in a high position, could have the “temerity of playing drama and tamasha on such a sentimental issue that was inseparable from Naga political solu(Full text on p-6) tion”.

Mask mandatory in Kohima: AKMWP

DIMAPUR, APR 27 (NPN): Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Panchayat (AKMWP) Tuesday informed that it would be enforcing compulsory wearing of face mask in public places within Kohima Municipal Wards with effect from April 30. AKMWP president Neibulie Kiewhuo and general secretary Thejao Sekhose warned that defaulters would be impose penalty of Rs. 100 for non-compliance. AKMWP informed that its proposed move has been approved by the Kohima District Task Force.

This is it!

“He’s computer illiterate at online class. But computer genius at online games.”

K Y M C

new infections reported in the past few days.

The active case count has increased to 28,82,204 comprising 16.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 82.54 per cent, from 82.62 per cent reported on Monday. The national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 97.33 per cent on February 17.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,45,56,209.

The ‘Indian strain’ of the coronavirus carries higher transmissibility similar to the UK variant, but there is little evidence so far of it being more lethal than the original virus, experts have said. The B.1.617 variant of SARS-CoV2, also being called a ‘double mutant’ or the ‘Indian strain’, has been found prevalent largely in Maharashtra and Delhi that have been severely hit by a devastating second wave of the pandemic.

In many cities in Maharashtra—the worst-hit state in the country—the B.1.617 variant was found in more than 50 per cent of samples on which genome sequencing was conducted, while the proportion of the UK variant was 28 per cent in the second week of March, Sujeet Singh, the Director of National Centre for Disease Control, had said in a webinar on genome sequencing last week.

Anurag Agrawal, the Director of the Institute of

Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), told PTI, “As far as we know, neither the UK variant nor this one (B.1.617) is associated with increased severity of illness or death. UK strain is proven to have higher transmissibility and B.1.617 may have increased transmissibility.”

“But this (that the B.1.617 variant has more transmissibility) has not been proven and there are several characterises to prove it and the studies have not been completed,” he said.

IGIB is one of the 10 laboratories spread across the country that are involved in genome sequencing of the virus. He, however, added that there is no comparison of which variant has increased transmissibility.

“But looking at Maharashtra’s experience, it looks more transmissible, but it is yet to be proven. Looking at the general evidence, it (B.1.617) may be more transmissible,” he said.

B.1.617 variant has three new spike protein mutations. Two mutations -- E484Q and L452R -- are in the area important for antibody-based neutralisation.

Third mutation -- P681R -- allows the virus to enter cells a little better. These are defining characteristics of the variant.

Soumitra Das, Director of National Centre for Biological Sciences, said there is no report on the lethality of B.1.617 yet.

In a webinar on genome sequencing of the coronavirus last week, Das had said variants found in India are not really escaping our vaccinated sera, suggesting that the available vaccines are effective on them.

In its initial result on the efficacy of the Covishield vaccine, the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, another premier institute that has been studying the virus, said the vaccine is effective against the B.1.617 strain.

Clashes erupt in Myanmar; junta to ‘consider’ ASEAN plan international, Page 9

Free Covid-19 vaccine for all above 18 years in Nagaland DMAPUR, APR 27 (NPN): In an effort to ramp up the Covid-19 vaccination drive, Nagaland on Tuesday decided to provide free vaccination to all above 18 years in the State.

Informing this to media persons in Kohima, High Powered Committee (HPC) spokesperson on COVID-19 and adviser Mmhonlumo Kikon said: “The government of Nagaland in the cabinet meeting has decided

Representational image of Covishield vaccine

to vaccinate all the citizens of Nagaland above 18 years free of cost! Thank you HCM@Neiphiu_Rio for this important decision!”

It may be noted that over 20 states, so far, have announced that they will provide free Covid-19 vaccines to their people. While some have made the coronavirus vaccine free for all, others have said that it will be free for people between the age of 18 to 45 only.

State receives 1 lakh doses of Covid vaccine

Ahead of the third phase of Covid vaccine drive starting from May 1, which will include beneficiaries aged between 18 to 44 years, Nagaland received 1 lakh doses of Covid-19 vaccines on April 26.

Informing this in a press note, state immunization officer (UIP), Dr. Ritu Thurr said that one lakh doses of Covishield vaccines were received from GMSD Kolkata. He further reminded all eligible to start regis-

tration for availing vaccine by visiting selfregistration. cowin.gov.in and Arogya Setu App, which will be open from April 28.

Beneficiaries should book appointments only after the state/department announces availability of vaccines and sessions are made available on CoWIN portal, he added.

Dr. Ritu said that the vaccine allocation to states/ UTs are based on three criteria-- a. performance

(Seven- day rolling average of consumption), b. number of active Covid cases and c. vaccine wastage, as per COWIN data (including data base of covid-19 vaccines).

The vaccine doses to be made available to the states/UTs, will be communicated in advance to state/ UTs for the next fortnightly.

Based on the above criteria, State-wise quota would be decided and communicated to the States adequately in advance.

Lockdown-like measures from Apr 30 to May 14 207 fresh Covid cases; 1 more death Consolidated guidelines to be issued on Apr 29 Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 27 (NPN): In view of the surge in COVID-19 cases in the State, the cabinet on Tuesday decided to impose strict lockdown-like measures from April 30 up to May 14. Addressing media persons at the chief secretary’s conference hall here, High Powered Committee (HPC) spokesperson on COVID-19 and adviser Mmhonlumo Kikon said the government would issue fresh consolidated guidelines on April 29.

Highlighting some of the guidelines in brief that would be effective from April 30, he said all schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions, hostels, etc, would remain closed across the State, though online and distant learning would be permitted and encouraged.

Cinema halls, swimming pools, gymnasiums, entertainment parks, auditorium, theatres, assembly halls, sport complexes and stadiums and similar places to remain closed.

All public places like

parks, museums, libraries, recreational centres etc shall be closed. Any person found without mask in public places to pay fine of Rs. 200.

Social, political, sports, entertainment academy, religious functions and other large congregations shall be permitted outside the containment zones with not more than 30% capacity of the hall, venue, ground or whichever is lower subject to COVID 19 appropriate behaviours.

Entry and exit points: Any inbound traveller/returnee will be permitted to enter the State through Dimapur by train, air or by road through the New Field Check gate and Dillai gate.

By road through Khuzama in Kohima district, Tzutapela and Watiyongpang under Mokokchung district, Naginimora and Tizit in Mon district, Bhandari in Wokha district and Lanye in Phek district and also Akash bridge in Chizami, Phek district.

Entry into the state through any other route or by any other mode of travel is restricted, except under special circumstances with the approval of the Home department.

Every inbound traveller will be guided by the provisions of the SOP issued on November 25, 2020. On

arrival, traveller/returnee will be required to produce negative RT-PCR, TrueNat, CBNAAT test report done not earlier than 72 hour prior to entry into the State. Such persons will be required to remain in self-isolation/ quarantine for seven (7) days.

In other cases, upon entering the state, such person will be required to self-isolate/ quarantine for 10 days.

Each traveller will be required to fill up the self declaration form online https://covid19.nagaland. gov.in. For those travelling to other NE states through Nagaland, will also have to fill self declaration form online https://covid19.nagaland.gov.in Movement of people within the state will be permitted subject to adherence of COVID 19 SOP at all times.

Intra-inter district movement of private/passenger vehicles of all category will be permitted across the state limited to 50% of the total seat occupancy.

Hotels, lodges, restaurants will to be permitted to open subject to adherence to conditions/provisions of Covid-19 SOPs. Barbershops and salons are permitted to open and function subject to adherence of SOP. Private banks, ATMs,

pharmacies, medical clinics, nursing homes, private telecom services, internet service providers, media houses, LPG/petroleum outlets will continue to open/function as per the existing arrangements.

All other kinds of private offices/establishments may open/function subject to 50% attendance on any day and strict adherence to COVID-19 appropriate behaviour.

All other activities not explicitly barred or prohibited in this order or any other order issued by the Government will continue to be permitted subject to strict adherence to COVID19 appropriate behaviour like wearing of masks, social distancing and frequent washing of hands by sanitizers/soaps by all concerned.

District administration, police, security forces/ agencies and medical and essential service providers like treasury, fire & emergency services, home guards & civil defence, prisons, PHED, power, NIC, DIPR, postal services, food & civil supplies, social welfare, IT&C, veterinary & animal husbandry, municipal councils, doordarshan, BSNL, public sector banks , ATMs shall continue to operate as per the current arrangements.

DIMAPUR, APR 27 (NPN): Nagaland on Tuesday recorded the highest single-day spike of 207 Covid-19 positive cases this year, taking the total caseload to 13445.

According to Health department, Dimapur alone registered 177 cases, Kohima- 13, Tuensang-9 while Longleng and Mokokchung reported 3 cases each, Mon and Peren one case each. With this the active cases also rose 874.

Meanwhile, one more death was reported on Tuesday, taking the death toll to 99, out of which 89 were Covid-19 related deaths and 10 not Covid related, Health department stated.

DIMAPUR, APR 27 (NPN): In connection with the alleged abduction of three ONGC employees

by ULFA (Independent), the Konyak Union (KU) has “openly warned” the banned outfit to immediately release those still held as hostage without delay.

In a press release, KU president S Howing and general secretary Wango Konyak affirmed that its soil “shall not be used for breeding any act of violence or any criminal activities”.

It may be mentioned that two of the three employees abducted by ULFA-I were rescued by security forces after a gunfight in Mon on April 23. With regard to cur(Cont’d on p-8) rent law and order situation

KOHIMA, APR 27 (NPN): State chief minister Neiphiu Rio Tuesday flagged off 24 ambulances equipped with basic life-support system donated by National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme at Secretariat plaza here.

Speaking at the flaggingoff programme, Rio appreciated the various initiatives undertaken by NHIDCL under its CSR project and thanked the organisation for all its support.

rendered by NHIDCL even in the days to come.

He said there were many big factories, manufacturing units and corporate in big cities and States that paid huge Central taxes.

In order to save taxes, they diverted their money towards CSR activities.

He regretted that Nagaland did not have a single industry because of which the State did not benefit from any CSR activity, even as the State received its share of Central taxes and reliefs.

Neiphiu Rio flagging off the ambulances on Tuesday. (NP) However, with NHIDMentioning that such confidence in the people of CL chipping in now for gesture would go a long the region, he hoped that the first time, he hoped the way in building trust and the same support would be State would witness more

ACTIVE CASES RecovMi- Total Symptomatic Death ered grated Cases Mild Moderate Severe 57 9 11 6365 68 230 7335 0 0 0 40 1 0 42 6 3 0 3975 21 55 4201 1 0 0 10 0 9 27 6 4 0 184 4 11 218 0 0 0 594 2 9 609 1 0 0 506 0 1 509 0 0 0 53 0 0 61 1 0 0 249 2 1 261

Dist

Asymptomatic

Dmu Kphre Kma Llg Mkg Mon Peren Phek Tsg

593 1 142 7 9 4 1 8 8

Wka

0

0

0

0

36

1

2

40

Zbto Total

0 773

0 72

0 16

0 11

139 12151

0 99

3 321

142 13445

KU open warning to ULFA (I) to release hostage

Rio flags off 24 ambulances sponsored by NHIDCL Correspondent

COVID-19 STATUS AS ON apr 27

in Mon district, KU urged the “law executing agencies to understand the plea of the poor public during such transition period.” It also urged responsible security agencies “to refrain from using human shield while executing its bonded duties.”

Meanwhile, reaffirming the resolution adopted during “Konyak historic Summit” held on April 13 and 14, 2021 at Mon town, KU stated that the Summit had temporarily affirmed and declared “No Unity No Taxation” while reaffirming the early Konyak stand on “Unity First Solution Next”.

KU, therefore, reiterated its stance and directed all its citizen “to strictly adhere its historic declaration.”

Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 27 (NPN): Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) said it was compelled to relocate the venue of its upcoming 29th general conference from Ukhrul, Manipur to Solidarity Park, Kohima owing to the recent spike in COVID cases across the country.

NSF president Ninoto Awomi told media persons at the federation’s office here Tuesday, that the relocation was made after the Manipur government had put various restrictions in its effort to handle the pandemic.

Organizing committee convener and former NSF president, Subenthung Kithan reiterated that NSF (Cont’d on p-8)

SLBC mulls reducing working hours

DIMAPUR, APR 27 (NPN): With sudden surge in Covid-19 cases in Nagaland and to prevent further spread, State Level Bankers’ Committee convenor has suggested to cut short the banking business hours in branches between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. as against 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In a letter to chief secretary, SLBC also suggested that head offices/administrative offices/branches would function with 50% staff strength. However, in respect of branches, the local offices of the member banks would take suitable (Cont’d on p-8) decision with regard to staff

such CSR programmes in the future.

Meanwhile, with the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic causing mayhem, Rio emphasised that being a poor and resource-crunch State, Nagaland needed support not only from the Centre but also from various business institutions. He said the ambulance equipped with basic life-support system would serve the people much better and help save many lives. He also thanked health workers for working hard and handling the first wave of pandemic carefully and professionally.

NSF relocates gen. conference venue

requirement depending on the business of the branch.

To permit work from home (WFH) for pregnant ladies, women with children of 5 years or below, staff members with co-morbidities and staff members with physical disabilities.

SLBC informed that alternate channel to remain open and function as usual besides back office services viz. currency chest, ATM cash loading vendors, offices in data centre, data recovery centres, ATM back offices, service branches, clearing house, bank treasury officers etc..

(Cont’d on p-8) K Y M C

2

state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

Kronu stresses on cash crop farming COVID care centre activated in Longleng

Neiba Kronu and others during the inauguration of first VDB village building at Kiitsapo.

cash crops on commercial scale.

He assured the farmers that the government was always willing to assist the farmers in finding the market.

He said that Kütsapo was a legendary village and urged upon the villagers to live up the good legacy of being the first VDB village in Nagaland.

Speaking on infrastructural and economic development, Kronu challenged the

people to focus more on human resource development for a progressive society.

Further, while assuring to work for an all round development, he encouraged the people to advocate the development of Phek area and to beautify Phek town.

During the programme, DRDA Phek, project director Ruzukhrii D. Vasa, NDPP former candidate Kupota Khesoh and Chakhesang Public Organisation, former president

MCK seminar on personal dev DIMAPUR: Modern College Kohima (MCK) training and placement cell, in collaboration with imperial coaching conducted a motivational seminar on “personal development” on April 22 at the college

with 85 participants.

The resource persons for the programme were CEO of IAS imperial coaching centre Rahul Sen and Suraj Gupta.

The objective of the seminar was to impart

and sensitise the students on the right path for a successful future as this was the right age of the students to set their vision and recognise their inherent strength in pursuit of excellence.

Sovenyi delivered speeches while purpose of the first VDB village Kütsapo was highlighted by VDB secretary, Vechikhoyi Lohe.

Message from Sano Vamuzo, wife of late Phesao and family members of late Gokhale were also read out on the occasion.

The programme was chaired by Zashevezo Rhakho while welcome address was delivered by Kutsapo village council chairman Shevotso Rhakho.

CRIME BEAT Three arrested for extortion

DIMAPUR: One person was arrested by Dimapur police on charges of extorting money from truck drivers from 3rd Mile area on April 27.

According to Dimapur police PRO, the arrested person identified as one Wangzan Konyak (31), presently residing at Burma Camp, while extorting money in the name of NSCN (I-M). Police seized Rs.2500 from his possession.

In this connection, a case was registered with East PS Dimapur.

Further, Dimapur police arrested two individuals on charges of extortion from Burma Camp area on April 25.

According police PRO, the police recovered non local ID cards (23 Nos) in the name of NSCN/GPRN (K), six tax slips of NNC (NA), 12 tax slips of FGN, two tax slips of NNC parent body, five tax slips of NNC/NPGN and cash of Rs 750 from two arrested accused identified as one Angukavi Yeptho, P/A Purana Bazar and Toshi Jamir (32) P/A Ura Villa Dimapur. In this connection, a case was registered with East PS Dimapur.

One arrested for theft: One person identified as one Salim Uddin (27) of Ratanpur village, Karimganj Assam was arrested on charges theft on April 25. The individual was wanted by Karimganj police, Assam in connection with a theft case. In this regard, nine jewellery items was seized from his possession.

PRO informed that the individual along with the stolen items was handed over to the Karimganj police.

Vehicle recovered: In connection with a vehicle theft case registered in Chandmari PS, Assam, one Bolero pick up was recovered by east PS personnel on April Directorate of employment skill development and entrepreneurship in partnership 27 from Dimapur town. The vehicle was handed over to with Youth Moulding Centre, Changtongya town distributed sustainable tools and Assam police. equipments to trainees during the “multi skill handyman” training. (DIPR)

AASU takes on govt over incomplete projects at Aboi

DIMAPUR: Expressing concern on the slow progress of work in the construction of 11th NAP (IR) Battalion Aboi and Government Polytechnic Aboi (GPA), the Aboi Area Students’ Union (AASU) has demanded assurance from the government that the remaining construction works would be completed within a time frame.

AASU media cell claimed that despite reminding the concerned authority for early completion, the department went ahead and fixed the date for inauguration of the IR battalion camp.

The union stated that it was not against early inauguration but their main demand was that work should be completed first.

Since the work was only half done, accommodation of jawans would pose huge problem, which would interrupt the normal duties of the jawan and staff posted there, the union claimed. AASU pointed out that GPA was inaugurated last year before completion of work.

It stated that the inauguration would bring relief to the students’ community to carry forward its academic goals but, the building stood without additional works for teaching staff and hostels for students.

AASU has appealed to the home and technical education departments to first complete the work before any proposed inauguration.

K Y M C

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Psalms – 91:1

He that dwelled in the secret place of the most high Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

Dr. Imnameren Phom speaking at the programme on Tuesday. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: CCC and COVID-19 hospital, Longleng was dedicated by executive secretary, PBCA, Rev. Tialemba Phom at DIET building, new site, Longleng on April 26.

According to DIPR report, while speaking on the occasion DC Longleng, M. Shayung Phom appreciated Bhumnyu village for

coming forward and supporting the DTF without any reservations. Longleng medical superintendent, Dr. Lhouvizotuo presented the status report of the CCC & Covid hospital and asserted that the hospital has a total capacity of 17 beds, one operation theatre, one labour room, one laboratory and two ICU beds while the

CCC has a total capacity of nine beds.

DPO (RCH & UIP) & district media spokesperson for COVID-19 vaccination, Dr. Imnameren Phom highlighted on the ongoing vaccination programme.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by EAC headquarters, Longleng Ruokuosetuo Tetso.

news in Brief ALPHF informs patta holders: Government Acquired Land Patta Holders Forum (ALPHF) Sechü (Zubza) has informed government acquired land patta holders at Sechü (Zubza) who could not attend on April 17 to register on or before May 1. The patta holders may contact 9436077217 (convenor) or 9436208189 (treasurer).

NVFAA elects office bearers: Nagaland Veterinary Field Assistants’ Association (NVFAA) held a general conference on April 22 and elected Nosazonu Puyo as president, Anthony Konyak as vice president, Kambo V Sumi as general secretary along with five other members as office bearers for the tenure 2021-2025.

Change of meeting venue: All the administrative heads of departments (AHoDs) and heads of department (HoDs) of the agriculture & allied departments have been informed that the venue of the meeting scheduled to be held on April 28 at 11 a.m. has been shifted from APC’s conference hall to secretariat conference hall.

FALT Dmu cancels Moatsümong festival: Foothill Ao Lanur Telongjen Dimapur (FALT) informed that Moatsümong festival which was scheduled on May 1 has been cancelled due to the following increase and overwhelming concerns about COVID-19. However, FALT has informed that the raffle draw on the day will be made know through daily local papers.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

VINIHO ACHUMI Deputy Kilonser GPRN/NSCN

17.03.1958 — 24.04.2021 We, the bereaved family of Late VINIHO ACHUMI, Naharbari village express our heartfelt gratitude to all the well wishers who stood with us in prayer and showed sympathy through various help during his prolonged illness. We regret our inability to thank everyone individually however, we pray that the God Almighty shower His blessings to all abundantly.

Our special thanks to:1. Tokheho Yeptho – Member of Parliament.

2. Khehovi Yeptho – Advisor Tourism Art & Culture.

3. Azheto Zhimomi - MLA 4. Mr & Mrs. Phoishe Zhimo, Naharbari.

5. Mr & Mrs. Kitoho Aye, Naharbari.

6. Doctors and nurses of Olive Christian Hospital Dimapur.

7. All rank and files of GPRN/NSCN Government.

8. Tichipami Community, Dimapur.

9. Sumi Baptist Church Darogapathar.

10. Sumi Baptist Church Naharbari.

11. Sumi Community Naharbari.

12. Upper Naharbari Colony.

13. Naharbari Youths.

DP-2162

Loving Wife, Children and Family Members

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Born : 14.06.1976 – Died : 25.04.2021 We, the bereaved family members of Late Akuminla LTR (Longpa), would like to convey our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all our relatives, neighbors, church members, individuals and well wishers who stood by us spiritually, physically, morally and financially during the time of her illness and demise.

We regret our inability to thank each and every individual during our time of grief and deeply acknowledge the love and concern bestowed upon us. It is our earnest prayer that the Almighty God bless upon you abundantly.

Loving husband, children and relatives.

MKC-129

CONDOLENCE Late MOAKABA AIER (01/05/1949 to 22/04/2021)

We, the family of Late Moakaba Aier convey our sincere gratitude to everyone for your sympathy and kindness as we mourn the loss of our most beloved. We are overwhelmed by your continuous love and support at his sudden demise on 22nd of April 2021. We also offer our heartfelt thanks towards our kind neighbours and all those who stood by us through thick and thin.

Our sincere thanks to:1. Dimapur Nokpu Senso Telongjem 2. Bor-Lengri Ao Baptist Arogo 3. Borlengri Ao Tribal Council (BATC) 4. Eden Hospital, Dimapur.

5. Chuchuyimlang Fellowship, Dimapur.

6. Sun Vellay Hospital, Guwahati 7. All relatives, friends, neighbours and well wishers.

DP-2164

Loving Wife, Children, Grand Children and Relatives

The Chozubami Students' Union is deeply saddened by the sudden demise of Dr. Küthonuyi Phesa-o, Rtd. Director, Vety. & A.H/GON on April 25, 2021.

He was the first Director of Vety. & A.H among the Chakhesang Community. We lost a great leader but his honor and good deeds will always remain.

We convey our sympathies to the bereaved family. It is our prayer that God lead his soul to eternal peace and bring solace to the family as we mourn together for the deceased.

May his soul rest in peace.

Chozubami Students' Union K-853

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”

2 Timothy 4:7

Through this column, we the family of Late Xutovi S. Achumi Tsuipu, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every individual who stood by us and supported us through spiritual, physical, financial and with constant prayers at the demise of our beloved Xutovi S. Achumi Tsuipu.

We would like to thank : 1. Churches of Lazami Village.

2. Lazami Social Welfare, Dimapur and Kohima.

3. Sumi Aphuyemi Kuqhakulu, Dimapur and Kohima.

4. Hovishe Baptist Church.

5. Hovishe Ghami Tughalalo Kichemi Kuqhakulu.

6. Set Free Church Dimapur.

7. Doctors and nurses of Eden Medical Centre, Dimapur.

8. Staff of GMS Khekiho Village.

9. Staff of GPS Thilixu Block-II 10. Shri. Y. Vikheho Swu, Hon’ble MLA 13th (A/C) 11. Molungkimong Dimapur Union.

12. Mission India Bible College, Thahekhu Block-7 13. Tribal Old Age Home cum Day Care Centre (Indisen Village, Dimapur) 14. Progressive Motors Dimapur.

15. Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Church Kohima 16. Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Church Kohima (Youth Department) To everyone who helped in anyway, your contribution made our loss more bearable. As it is impossible to thank each and everyone individually, we humbly pray that our Almighty God bless you abundantly for your kind deeds.

DP-2170

DIMAPUR: Minister for planning & coordination, land revenue and parliamentary affairs, Neiba Kronu on Tuesday said that agricultural activities were the sole area to boost the state’s economy.

He was speaking at the inaugural programme of first VDB village building at Kütsapo village in Phek district on Tuesday.

The minister encouraged the people to take up coffee, cardamom and other

Vote of thanks was proposed by first VDB secretary Dukhiiyi Vadeo. Phek DC Razouvolie Dozo, Phek SP Vesupra Kezo, Phek BDO Kuhuchiyi Vadeo, NDPP Phek Region president Mosonyi Domeh also attended at the function.

It may be mentioned that VDB was first formed on December 6, 1976 in Kütsapo village with the initiative of the then Phek deputy commissioner AM Gokhale and was implemented throughout the state under the leadership of Vamuzo Phesao, former chief minister of Nagaland.

VDB Kütsapo constructed the two storeyed building under MGNREGA 2017-2020 in remembrance of the two.

T h e y h ave n a m e d the ground floor after late Phesao to house a library and the first floor as AM Gokhale hall.

The building constructed under MGNREGA 20172020 was to be inaugurated

by Padma Shri, Gokhale but due to his demise on April 18, the building was inaugurated by Neiba Kronu.

Loving Wife, Children, Brothers, Sisters and Relatives

Late Xutovi S. Achumi Tsuipu

09/06/1968 – 21/04/2021

K Y M C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Should night curfew be extended in all districts of Nagaland ?

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

A B C

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Imnatiba inaugurates training centre in Dimapur

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A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

14% 83% 3%

Next poll

Q: Ca n t h e s p re a d o f

second COVID-19 wave be checked through imposing curfew?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST April 28

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sun and very hot

40 25

Hot with hazy sun

33 18

Guwahati Hot with hazy sun

36 21

Hazy sun and hot

35 15

Aizawl Imphal

Itanagar Partly sunny

33 20

Shillong

A t-storm around in the a.m.

27 16

Kohima

A shower and thunderstorm

28 16

Dimapur Partly sunny and very hot Mkg

Tuensang Hazy sunshine Wokha

37 21

Hazy sun with a t-storm in spots 30 16 A strong afternoon t-storm

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

23 13 29 21 27 14

Imnatiba and others during the inaugural programme.

DIMAPUR: Advisor for labour & employment, skill development & entrepreneurship and industries & commerce, Imnatiba inaugurated a construction training centre at Sovima Village, Dimapur on April 26.

A press release by Global Peers stated that at the inaugural programme, the advisor lauded the institute – Global Peers Training Centre – for imparting training that are relevant today.

Appreciating the skill trainers, Imnatiba said the trainers are “nation builders” and encouraged them to be sincere in their

work.

Emphasising on the importance of being skilled, the advisor asserted the need for Nagas to be skilled to get employed and not only depend on government jobs for employment.

He encouraged the trainees to fully equip themselves, work with dignity and become role models in their respective districts.

Speaking at the programme, chief executive officer of Global Peers, Rohit Chandra said that the company had already started receiving positive response from within and outside the state.

The release stated that

Fire destroys two houses at Tuli

Fire personnel dousing the fire at Tuli on Tuesday

DIMAPUR: Two houses along with house hold property, documents and Rs. 30,000 in cash were destroyed in the fire that

3

State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

broke out at Teyong Ward, Tzudikong town, opposite to SBI bank on April 27.

According to RO (E) FHQ, Kenny Khing, prop-

erty worth 2.84 lakhs (approx) was lost.

After receiving information, the fire & emergency services (F&ES) team from fire station Tuli proceeded to control the fire. Cause of fire was suspected to be from electrical short circuit. However, due to timely intervention, fire was controlled and prevented from spreading.

Two gas cylinders, surrounding three houses and a thatched house could be salvaged. No casualty was reported.

The fire response team was led by duty commander ASI Y Pangai Konyak.

Meanwhile, on receiving fire call at 6 p.m., F&ES from fire station Tuli swung into action to control the fire that broke out at 10th mile near railway station on April 26.

Due to intervention, the fire was controlled and prevented from spreading.

The fire response team was led by duty commander Nk/Clrk Akuto Asumi.

the training centre developed by Global Peers Skilling & Development Initiatives Pvt. Ltd. In Sovima, Dimapur is a first of its kind in the state and offers courses in construction.

The0 courses are sponsored by the government under the DDU-GKY skilling and placement initiative of the ministry of rural development and Nagaland state rural livelihoods mission.

The inaugural programme was chaired by Prem Kumar Kothapalli, dedicatory prayer was offered by Rev. Moses Murry and the vote of thanks by director, Global peers, Dr. Yan Murry.

WDCCI reiterates against illegal price hikes DIMAPUR: Wokha District Chamber of Commerce and Industries (WDCCI) Tuesday warned all the business establishments within Wokha district against charging of exorbitant rate and those indulging in hoarding of commodities.

In a press release, WDCCI president Renbithung Kikon and general secretary Abenthung S Ngullie reassured all that there was sufficient stock in the market.

The chamber appealed to the public not to panic over the artificial shortage caused by unscrupulous means. WDCCI also directed all the business establishments to maintain the MRPs of the commodities and to maintain the rate approved by Wokha Town Council (WTC) on various commodities. The chamber warned that any person found violating the directives would be booked under relevant sections of the law.

Further, the public have been requested to report to the WDCCI office if any unfair trade practices were found.

DCs, ADC issue COVID-19 guidelines DIMAPUR: DCs and ADC of various districts have been issuing directives on sealing of locations and imposing restriction of visitors in order to prevent the virus from spreading further.

ADC Jalukie: In view of the detection of COVID-19 positive cases in the neighboring districts and in the interest of public health and safety, ADC Jalukie, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang has issued orders for strict compliance by all concerned All weekly market within Jalukie sub-division would not be allowed to open till further order. However, all local vendors selling local products during the weekly market are allowed to sell their products as usual by maintaining strict SOP. All business establishments/shops are to compulsory keep hand wa s h f a c i l i t i e s / h a n d sanitisers; all passenger vehicles are to ply with strict permissible limit on the number of passengers as per the guidelines and with strict SOP. All the GBs/village councils, ward chairmen and colony chairmen are to identify and strictly monitor persons coming from outside and ensure they are self-isolated at least for 10 days if no COVID-19 negative test report is produces on arrival.

Persons coming from outside the state has to compulsory report to the COVID control room located at CHC, Jalukie or contact the control room through at 8732841972 or 9402728560.

Residents of Jalukie sub-division have been directed to observe COVID19 appropriate behaviors including avoiding public places, compulsory wearing of face masks while going out in public places.

All village/ward authorities in addition to

enforcement committees and police are directed to ensure compliance to COVID-19 appropriate behavior in their jurisdiction.

DC Phek: In order to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the district, DC Phek has issued guidelines for strict compliance.

All colonies chairman are directed to identify any person in their respective jurisdiction coming from outside the state and to report to DTF; mandatory of 10 days home self-isolation for person coming from outside the state, if such person is without negative RT-PCR/True Nat/ CBNAAT test report for COVID-19 (test done not earlier than 72 hours prior to entry into the state) is produced on arrival, if the test result is awaited or if the concerned has not completed COVID-19 vaccination.

We a r i n g o f f a c e mask is compulsory in the district. All residents of Phek district have been directed to strictly observe COVID-19 appropriate behavior.

Random and sample testing will continue in the district; religious/ academic/political or socio-cultural activities shall be permitted outside the containment zone but limited to 50% of the seating capacity or 200 persons only however, such activities should have the approval of the DTF. Ta x i / b u s d r ive r s and passengers should follow SOPs; any person planning to come to the district must provide prior information to COVID-19 control room, Phek at 9612435379/ 8729999398.

Any person coming from outside the state and after completion of seven days of home self-isolation may opt for COVID-19 test, if the result is negative the

person maybe released.

Testing shall be done at the medical institution facility.

The following phone numbers may be contacted for testing: 8974653353, 8729999398 and 9862087888.

Restrictions at NCS: In view of the recent surge in COV1D-19 cases in the state and in the interest of public safety, home department has informed that the entry of visitors in the Nagaland Civil Secretariat (NCS) complex is restricted.

The complex would be regulated in the following manner: all the employees should have valid ID card which they should display/produce to the checking staff while entering the secretariat; employees within the establishment are advised not to entertain outsiders and visitors and to follow SOPs at all times.

Apart from nodal officers, officers and staff from the directorates/districts on official duty may enter the secretariat after obtaining due permission from the concerned officer in the secretariat not below the rank of under secretary.

Any other visitors in exceptional cases will require permission of the Home Department (SAB ‘A’) for entry in the secretariat. This order would come into immediate effect till further orders.

DC Peren: DC & DTF chairman Peren Sentiwapang Aier has informed the citizens that the following guidelines have been issued for strict compliance.

All weekly markets in Peren would remain closed till further orders and only local vendors are per mitted to sell their produce at weekly markets following strict SOPs. Travellers coming from outside the state are to immediately report to

the district control room at 732481972/9402728560 at CHC Jalukie on arrival.

The police checkpost at Mhainamsti, Heningkunglwa and PerenMaram shall maintain proper records of persons entering the district along with contact details and copy of Identity proof; all commercial vehicle drivers shall maintain passenger log book with contact details and follow traveler’s protocol as per SOPs. C om m erc ia l pa s senger vehicle drivers shall not carry COVID19 positive person along with other passengers; all village/ward authority are directed to set up village task force/ work task force whose responsibilities include identifying people coming from outside the state under their respective jurisdiction and report to the district control room/SDTF, ensure that persons advised for self isolation are adhering to Covid protocols and to assist the concerned SDTF. Inter-state travellers tested negative not earlier than 72 hours prior to entry into the district shall undergo 10 days home isolation with observation of Covid safety protocol; positive person shall be directed for home isolation/CCC/ Covid hospital depending on the severity and feasibility for home isolation.

Inter-state travellers entering the district without being tested shall be subjected to home isolation/paid quarantine/ institutional quarantine for 10 days and if remain asymptomatic shall be released without testing.

DCs, ADC have informed that person found violating the directives would be penalised as per Section 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and IPC Section 188.

Along takes stock of COVID issue at DGC DIMAPUR: Following the detection of four COVID-19 positive cases at Dimapur Government College (DGC), the minister for higher education and tribal affairs, Temjen Inma Along held a meeting with the principal, vice principal and faculty members of the college at tourist lodge, Dimapur.

A press release by DGC publicity & media cell stated that during

the interaction, Along was appraised of the events and actions taken with the detection of the COVID19 cases.

The minister stressed on starting contact tracing and advised both the students and teachers to act responsibly.

In order to ensure that all the hostellers are COVID-free, Along assured that he would contribute

RAT testing kits for the boys and girls hostellers living in the collegerun hostels in the campus.

As of now, the results of the five primary contacts are being awaited after which the decision on whether to seal the entire college would be taken.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for online classes which would begin starting April 28.

KVKs, ATMAs train rural youth on agriculture and allied sector across the state

Kohima

DIMAPUR: In an attempt to impart skill-based training to rural youth in agriculture and allied areas, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and Agricultural Technology Management Agencies (ATMAs) across Nagaland have been conducting Skill Training of Rural Youth (STRY).

STRY also aims to promote employment of rural areas and for creation of skilled manpower to perform farm and non-farm operations.

Kohima: ATMA Kohima district conducted a six-day training programme on “poultry management” from April 19-24 in asK Y M C

sociation with State Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute (SAMETI) National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE).

According to DIPR report, the resource persons were farm manager, Dr. Thepfudithou Shüya and BTM Tseminyu Block, Dr. Vibeilie Keretsü.

The two main sub-topics under “poultry management” covered during the training programme were on “poultry feed management” and “disease and preventive measures in poultry farming”.

Dr. Shüya described

Mon

poultry as one of the fastest growing and most profitable agri business in the current market scenario and encouraged the youth to pursue, starting from own backyard, to start doing with own hands instead of hiring labour. Field visit to poultry farm was also conducted.

The training programme was attended by 17 youths from different villages under Kohima district and certificates were distributed to each participant.

Mon: A week STRY programme on “seed production and poultry rearing and management” was

organised by KVK Mon, Nagaland in association with SAMETI, Nagaland, and MANAGE Hyderabad at KVK Office Aboi under Mon. A press release by KVK Mon stated that during the first week, course director Bendangjungla emphasised on different themes with regard to seed production on cereals and vegetables. On the second week programme, course director Dr. Paihem Michui emphasised on various aspects on poultry rearing and management.

The training covered various topics under seed production and poultry

Wokha

rearing and management through PowerPoint presentation, audio visual, skilled based exercise through active participation and involvement of trainees at interactive sessions and group discussions.

Sub-divisional soil and water conservation officer (SDSCO) Aboi, Shoyan Konyak graced the valedictory programme as guest of honour and encouraged trainees to be well versed with technical knowledge and put into practice for their livelihood security based with eco-friendly manner. Altogether 34 rural youths from Angphang, Chaoha, Chingkao,

Chenloishu, Chenwetnyu Villages and Aboi Town attended the training.

Wo k h a : AT M A Wokha organised STRY programme on the topic “package of practices on eri culture” on April 19 and April 24 at ATMA training hall.

A press release from, ATMA Wokha DPDT Subenthung Kithan stated that resource person for the training wasdepartment of sericulture, extension officer, Edward Humtsoe.

He stressed on different topics such as types of silkworm, rearing of silkworm, host plant cultivation and seed production.

Dimapur

The training pro gramme was led by ATMA Wokha DPDT Subenthung Yanthan, where he stressed on the importance of skill development.

He also encouraged the aspiring youths to enhance their knowledge through skill training which would enable them for selfsustainability.

The programme also covered documentary films and activities undertaken

by ATMA Wokha.

AT M A D i m a p u r : ATMA Dimapur in association with State SAMETI Nagaland and MANAGE organised a six-day STRY for 15 youths on “low cost

mushroom cultivation & value addition” from April 19- 24at mushroom development centre, state horticulture nursery, Dimapur, Nagaland.

A press release by DAO & PD ATMA, Dimapur stated that during the course of training, participants were taught about various varieties of mushroom, different methods of mushroom cultivation for different varieties, preparation of materials for mushroom cultivation, hands on practical demonstration and preparation and a field trip to Konger Agritech (OPC) private limited, Aoyimkum, Dimapur.

K Y M C

4

northeast

COVID: Night curfew in Assam till May 1

Guwahati, Apr 27 (PTI): The Assam government on Tuesday imposed night curfew across the state -- from 8 pm to 5 am - with immediate effect, as part of its efforts to control the surge in COVID-19 cases.

The state disaster management authority, in its order, said the curfew will be in place till May 1.

“The COVID-19 situation in Assam has been reviewed... It has been observed that there has been a rapid increase in the number of active cases of COVID-19 across the state. “...and therefore, it is felt that night curfew needs to be imposed in all districts of Assam, except for essential and emergency activities/services,” the order signed by Chief Secretary Jishnu Barua said.

Barring some exceptions, movement of individuals will not be allowed during the curfew period.

The state government has also ordered all mar-

File photo of night curfew inn Assam. ket places and shops to down shutters by 6 pm, and face mask has been made mandatory for everyone, including a person driving alone in a car.

The order further said that any individual violating the norms will be penalised in accordance with Sections 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 (violation of restrictive measures attracting

imprisonment up to one year or a fine or both), and legal action will be initiated under Section 188 of the IPC (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) among other provisions.

It, however, exempted people involved in providing emergency services at medical establishments, police forces, prisons, fire brigade, district administra-

tions, and public transport and other offices.

Judicial officers and staff of courts, all passengers with valid tickets, journalists and people out to get their vaccine doses have also been kept out of the curfew’s ambit.

“There shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement/ transportation of essential/ non-essential goods. No

separate permission/e-pass will be required,” the order stated.

Also, movement of people for providing essential services and commodities like groceries, fruits, vegetables, milk, meat and fish, fodder and medicines won’t be restricted.

Those associated with banks, insurance offices, internet services, fuel depots, cold storage and security services have also not been exempted, the order added.

Meanwhile, Education Department Commissioner and Secretary Preetom Saikia, in a notification, has asked district administrations to shut down all educational institutes and hostels for a fortnight if the cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in areas under their jurisdiction crosses 300 in a span of 10 days.

Assam reported 15 fresh fatalities due to COVID-19 on Monday, while the total number of cases rose to 2,40,670 with 3,137 more people testing positive for the disease.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

Bhutan to supply 40 metric tonnes medical oxygen to Assam daily

G UW A H A T I / SHILLONG, APRIL 27 (IANS): Bhutan will supply 40 metric tonnes of liquid oxygen to Assam daily for Covid patients, an official release said on Tuesday.

A release from the Indian mission in Bhutan said that Bhutan would supply liquid oxygen to India from a new plant being set up at the Motanga Industrial Estate, Samdrup Jongkhar district by S.D. Cryogenics Gases Pvt. Ltd, a Bhutanese company.

“Every day, 40 metric tonnes of liquid oxygen produced by the oxygen plant would be exported to Assam using cryogenic tankers. The oxygen plant has domestic investment of 51 per cent

by S.D. Cryogenics and FDI component of 49 per cent

by Meghalaya Oxygen Pvt Ltd, an Assam-based Indian company.

“The provision of oxygen by Bhutan would augment India’s efforts to win the fight against Covid-19 and save precious lives, the release said adding that this is a practical manifestation

Every day, 40 metric tonnes of liquid oxygen produced by the oxygen plant would be exported to Assam using cryogenic tankers. of the uniquely close and friendly ties between India and Bhutan.

Meanwhile, Assam’s Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Pijush Hazarika accompanied

by Rajya Sabha Member Biswajit Daimary on Sunday visited the under construction oxygen plant at Bhutan. “Once it is completed, Assam would get 50 MT oxygen per day which would be highly beneficial to combat Covid,” Hazarika said in a tweet.

Meanwhile, Assam Health and Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the state government has installed eight oxygen plants in five medical colleges and hospitals including Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, producing 5.23 metric tonnes of oxygen per day. Sarma told the media on Tuesday that five more oxygen units are in the process of being installed and two more units would become operational in the next three-four days.

No shortage of medical oxygen 4 more COVID deaths in M’laya in Arunachal Pradesh: Khandu Correspondent

Itanagar, Apr 27 (PTI): Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday said there is no shortage of medical oxygen needed for treatment of COVID-19 patients in the state.

Attending a virtual meeting of all state BJP members to review the COVID-19 situation and to assess its preparedness level, Khandu informed that eight oxygen generating plants have been installed at different locations in the state while 11 are in the pipeline.

The chief minister said the government had utilised the first wave of the pandemic to strengthen health infrastructure across the state and

therefore is well prepared to meet the challenges of the second wave. Khandu informed that virtual meetings have been conducted so far with MLAs, newly elected municipal corporators and councillors, panchayat leaders including head of the districts to devise strategies to tackle the spread of the second wave of the pandemic. He said SoPs has been issued for all 15 inter-state entry points to Arunachal, which has mandated visitors to carry RT-PCR and TrueNet tests of 72 hours validity. The exemption on entry is only for citizens who have completed two doses of covid vaccine, an official communique said here.

Tripura govt approves 20-25 pc hike in public transport Agartala, Apr 27 (PTI): The Tripura government on Tuesday approved a 20-25 per cent hike in fare in all types of public transport in the state.

Transport Minister Pranajit Singharoy said the state government has approved a 20-25 per cent hike in fares in public transport considering different aspects like the last fare hike was in July 2018 and the prices of fuel including petrol and CNG has increased.

The cost of other components like wages of transport employees, tyre and insurance rates have also gone up. The minister said the hike in fare would come

into effect immediately.

“We had approved the last hike in July 2018. Since then the prices of petrol and CNG prices have increased by 30 per cent while the diesel price has increased by 32 per cent. In such a situation, there had been a demand from the owners of vehicles for increasing the fares. Considering the facts, the state government has approved the hike of transport fare”, Singharoy told reporters. The passenger fare for ordinary bus has been increased from 58 paise to 73 paise (25 per cent hike) per km. In case of minibus service, the fare has been increased from 72 paise to 90 paise per km.

Khandu said to tackle the spread of COVID-19, emphasis is being given for maximum coverage of vaccines at free of cost. Khandu added that 343 vaccination centres have been identified and activated across the state and till date more than 2.18 lakh people including, frontline workers and persons above the age of 45 have been vaccinated. The chief minister requested the people to stay indoors as much as possible and to venture out only if it is highly necessary to prevent oneself from getting infected. He also requested all to wear masks, maintain proper distance, to wash hands regularly and to avoid large gatherings.

SHILLONG, APRIL 27: Meghalaya recorded four deaths and 147 new COVID19 cases on Tuesday, taking the number of fatalities and new cases of active cases to 165 and 1,456 respectively.

Also, the State recorded 90 more recoveries, pushing the number of recovered patients up to 14, 650 on Tuesday, health officials said.

Director Health Services (MI), Dr. Aman War said the four COVID-19 related deaths were three from East Khasi Hills District and one in South Garo Hills district.

He said the new COVID-19 cases detected on Tuesday included 90 in

East Khasi Hills, 22 in West Garo Hills district, 12 in RiBhoi district, seven in East Jaintia Hills district, five in West Khasi Hills district, four in West Jaintia Hills district, three in South Garo Hills district and one each in East Garo Hills district and North Garo Hills district.

Wi t h 1 0 5 5 a c t i ve COVID-19 cases and 138 fatalities, East Khasi Hills, which includes State capital Shillong is the most affected among the 11 districts, followed by 143 active cases in Ri-Bhoi district, 94 active cases in West Jaintia Hills district, 64 active cases in East Jaintia Hills district, and 53 active cases in West Garo Hills district, while ‘Byaktikram Pride of Northeast Awards 2021’ was held at Vivanta Guwahati the remaining districts have on April 23 where Imperial Coaching Centre was awarded in the category lesser cases. of “Best Medical Coaching Centre in North East”.

Manipur records 175 COVID cases in a day Correspondent IMPHAL, APR 27: In the backdrop of ever rising in the daily COVID-19 caseload, Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday instructed district administrations across the state to be prepared for the possible situation coming in the next two months.

Singh gave the instruction to DCs of the 16 districts of the state during a video conference to review the COVID-19 situation amid recent spike in coronavirus cases.

The chief minister mainly enquired the DCs about the number of active cases, home isolation

patients, vaccination, preparations for re-activation of COVID Care Centres, etc., said a release of the CMO. It informed that Singh instructed them to be prepared for the possible situation coming in the next two months.

The chief minister also asked them to submit detailed reports on their activities, preparations and inadequacies to the state principal secretary (health), with a copy to the Chief Minister’s Office.

During the conference, the chief minister cautioned that everybody should be very careful now as the new strain of COVID-19 is airborne and he asked DCs

to properly check whether the home isolation patients were kept isolated from other family members.

The chief minister further instructed to bring home isolation patients to COVID care centres if the officials visiting them were not convinced that the family has amenities like separate toilets and rooms for home isolation.

Singh also directed them to expedite formation of COVID awareness cum enforcement committees of different assembly constituencies and do the needful to re-activate COVID care centres at the earliest.

He also stressed on the need to cross-check COVID

negative reports for those entering the state from different entry points in the wake of recent detection of a 21-year-old positive girl from Thoubal district arriving by air using a fake negative test result.

The chief minister also instructed the DCs to intensify vaccination, raise more awareness and penalise SoP violators stringently.

Meanwhile, despite stringent preventive measures, active cases in Manipur have surpassed the 1000-mark as the state recorded yet another highest single-day surge of 175 coronavirus cases taking the overall caseload to 1,30,742 on Tuesday.

Normal life in Manipur hit by 24 hrs shutdown Correspondent IMPHAL, Apr 27: A daylong total shutdown that hit normal life across twin capital districts of Manipur ended peacefully on Tuesday.

The shutdown was announced by a group called ‘Justice for Sanaton Athokpam,’ who was fighting to get justice for Sanaton Athokpam, a medical student of RIMS who was found hanging dead in a controversial circumstance in his hostel on March 15 last. The shutdown was called to protest against the alleged inaction of the state government to deliver justice.

The state-wide shutdown commenced on Tuesday which lasted till 6pm disturbed normal life across the state, particularly in the twin capital districts.

Shops, markets and

24-hour shutdown that hit normal life in Manipur on Tuesday. commercial establishments were shut and public and private transport was off the road. Oil pumps, financial institutions, including banks remained closed for the day.

Attendance in government offices was also thin.

Reports said that ex-

cept non-arrival of interstate service commercial vehicles, the shutdown had little impact in other districts of the state.

The ‘Justice For Sanaton Athokpam’ group imposed the total shutdown allegedly after its demands

placed before the state government remained unaddressed. Many civil society organisations, student bodies extended support to the shutdown. The committee demanded police to file an FIR and investigate the death of the medical

student, immediate suspension of the RIMS director and dean (academics) and interrogation of the warden of the hostel, where Sanaton was reportedly found hanging.

It alleged that even after a month term of the magisterial enquiry ordered by the state government to investigate the case expired, the final report of the enquiry has not been submitted to the authority concerned.

The committee demanded a copy of the final report of the investigation for the family members of the deceased.

D u r i n g Tu e s d ay ’s shutdown, members of the ‘Justice For Sanaton Athokpam’ warned that they will continue various forms of agitations until the state government takes up appropriate actions to identify and book those involved in the

case. Sanaton Athokpam, a fifth semester MBBS student of RIMS was found dead in his hostel room with both hands tied on his back on March 15 last.

Meanwhile, a protest rally carried out at Longmai of Noney district alleged foul play in the investigation of death of the medical student.

The rally was jointly organised by Naga Women Union, Longmai area and other CSOs under the aegis of Justice for Sanaton Athokpam.

T h e r a l ly, m o s t ly consisting of women, demanded the state government to deliver justice to the family of the deceased medical student by booking the culprit(s) involved in the case.

Leaders of the rally organisers announced full support to the further cause of agitations to get justice.

Hi Avolü, Warmest wishes to you on your special day. I hope that you continue to change the lives of others with your positivity, love and beautiful spirit. Happy Birthday Miss. Avolü.

From, Nokhai Y B Hello Anisha, 18th birthday Mubarak . May Allah grant you to celebrate another many 18 birthdays like this . Celebrating birthday is really interesting , we pray to allmighty to give you every kind of joy and happyness . Many many happy returns of the day , enjoy it .

From your mummy and papa.

Dear Sifu, As you step into new phase of life from this day, it is my prayer that you live a peaceful and beautiful life; really NO disturbance from external sources should accumulate you through. You have been there for me no matter what and I’m so glad we’re still friends, and I bet that one day we’ll be sitting side-byside in our rocking chairs at our home laughing at all of our crazy times together. You are special by friend. Many many happy returns of the day. Had I been in our place I could have hosted rooftop party like 3 weeks back!!!!!

God bless you. Happy BIRTHDAY!!!

You’re Buddy, Tillman IN THE COURT OF

PRINCIPAL DISTRICT & SESSIONS JUDGE DIMAPUR : NAGALAND

NOTICE

LOA 20/2021

(SEC. 278 OF INDIAN SUCCESSION ACT 1925) Whereas application under Section 278 of the Indian Succession Act 1925 has been filed by Shri. H. Vihoshe Kinimi, husband of Late Kheloni Kinimi, R/o Sema Tilla Colony, Dimapur, Nagaland for grant of Letter of Administration in respect of landed property of his wife Late Kheloni Kinimi covered by : 1. Patta No. 855, Dag No. 132/1032, 132, Block-08, Mouza No. 03 measuring an area of 01B-01K-06Ls Dimapur before this Court.

Whereas 17th May, 2021 has been fixed for the hearing on the matter. Notice is hereby given inviting objection if any from the person having interest in the above named property to be furnished on or before the fixed date/or appear in person.

Given under my hand and seal of the Court on this 16th April, 2021.

Principal District & Sessions Judge Dimapur : Nagaland DP-2042

20-hour queues for cremations in Delhi

Dead bodies queue up at Subhash Nagar cremation ground early in the morning for the last rites, in New Delhi. (PTI)

up in the collective national tragedy driven by the pandemic.

Aman Arora, a young entrepreneur from West Delhi’s Ashok Nagar, lost his father M.L. Arora to a heart attack on Monday afternoon.

“We rushed him to many private hospitals when he started feeling discomfort in his chest but he was not even checked by the medical staff there. They demanded that we produce a Covid-negative report. He eventually passed away,” said Aman.

On Monday afternoon, Aman was told by the staff in west Delhi’s Subhash Nagar crematorium to wait until Tuesday morning to

SC asks UP gov to submit medical records of journalist Siddique Kappan

New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI): The Supreme Court Tuesday asked the Uttar Pradesh government to submit medical records of journalist Siddique Kappan who was arrested last year on way to Hathras where a young Dalit woman had died after being allegedly gang-raped.

Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) alleged that Kappan has been chained to a cot in the hospital he was admitted to after falling in the bathroom and later testing positive for COVID-19. The UP government refuted the allegations that Kappan has been chained to a cot at the hospital and said it would file a short reply on his medical records by tomorrow.

A bench of Chief Justice N V Ramana and Justices Surya Kant and A S Bopanna asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the state government, to file the medical records by Wednesday.

At the outset, Mehta said he had preliminary objection to the habeas corpus petition filed by KUWJ as Kappan has been in judicial

Siddique Kappan

custody under the judicial order.

He said the habeas corpus petition was not maintainable in the case where an accused is under judicial custody.

Advocate Wills Mathew, appearing for KUWJ, said that on April 20 he fell in the bathroom and on April 21 he was tested positive for COVID-19.

He added that besides the reliefs being sought, Kappan should also be allowed to talk to his mother via video conference.

The bench, which was facing difficulty in hearing the arguments due to connectivity issue, adjourned the matter for Wednesday.

“When we are adjourning the matter for de-

tailed hearing for tomorrow, why are you making arguments now,” the bench told Mathew.

It asked Mehta to file medical records of Kappan

by Wednesday to which the solicitor general agreed.

Kappan’s wife recently wrote to CJI Ramana seeking his immediate release from the hospital, alleging he is “chained like an animal in a cot” there.

Raihanth Kappan claimed in the letter written to the CJI that Kappan received injuries on April 20 after falling in the jail bathroom and was reported COVID-19 positive a day later.

She said he was shifted to K M Medical College, Mathura, on April 21, where he is presently “chained like an animal in a cot of the hospital, without mobility, and he neither could take food, nor could go to toilet for the last more than 4 days, and is very critical.”

On November 16 last year, the top court had sought a response from the Uttar Pradesh government on the plea challenging the arrest of the journalist.

COVID patient fails to get bed, dies; family attacks hospital staff New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI): Family members of a woman, who allegedly died due to COVID-19 after failing to get a bed at Apollo Hospital in south Delhi, attacked the staff of the private healthcare facility on Tuesday, police said.

However, they said no complaint has been filed in this regard so far.

“The hospital received a woman in a critical condition at the emergency in the early hours of Tuesday. Immediate medical attention appropriate to her condition was given by a team,” the

hospital’s spokesperson said in a statement.

“Given the paucity of beds, the family was advised to shift the patient to another facility with available beds. Unfortunately, the patient died around 8 am, following which her family members resorted to vandalism, destruction of hospital property and assault on our doctors and staff,” it said.

While the hospital deeply condoles the death of the patient, it is deeply shocked at the behaviour of the patient’s family against doctors and healthcare workers.

Medical supplies from the United Kingdom reach Delhi Airport, in New Delhi, Tuesday. (PTI)

next week.

Similarly, Ireland is sending 700 oxygen concentrators this week.

Sources said that Germany is sending a mobile oxygen production unit which will be made available for three months along with 120 ventilators and 80 million KN95 masks.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Tuesday that his government will send 500 ventilators, one million surgical masks, 500,000 P2 and N95 masks, 100,000 goggles, 100,000 pairs of gloves and 20,000 face shields to India.

Kuwait and Russia

have also committed to send medical supplies.

Some of the medical supplies are also coming through private channels from various countries. For example, Singapore is sending 500 BiPAPs, 250 oxygen concentrators, four Cryogenic oxygen containers and other medical supplies.

Saudi Arabia’s aid of 80 MT of liquid oxygen is enroute via the sea route, Hong Kong is sending 800 oxygen concentrators, while Thailand is sending four Cryogenic oxygen tanks.

India will also get six Cryogenic oxygen containers from the UAE.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

DIRECTORATE OF SCHOOL EDUCATION NO.: ED/AEI-8/2019

KOHIMA : NAGALAND

Kohima, the, 27th April 2021

NOTIFICATION

In pursuance to the provisions of the RTE Act, 2009 and NEP, 2020, it is hereby notified for the information of all concerned that admission to Class 1 shall be provided to children in the age group of 6+ years.

Further, admission to Pre-school/anganwadi/balvatika shall be provided to children in the age group of 3-6 years.

This notification comes in to force with immediate effect and children already admitted to Pre-Schools/ Class 1 in age groups below the above specified norms prior to the issue of this notification shall be allowed to continue with the same.

Head of Institutions of all schools functioning within the State of Nagaland are hereby directed to ensure that this notification is strictly complied with.

This issues as per the Government directive vide Letter No.DSE/NEP-20/7-49/2020 Dated, 15th April 2021.

(SHANAVAS C) IAS Principal Director Issued by DIPR

SHAMATOR COLLEGE, SHAMATOR Affiliated to Nagaland University Shamator, Dist-Tuensang-798612

POST VACANCY

DP-2171

Applications are invited from eligible candidates (preferably) with NET/M. Phil/PhD) for the post of Assistant professor with UGC Old Basic Pay in the following posts as given below: SL. NO.

SUBJECT

POST

1.

Education

Asst. Professor - 2

2.

History

Asst. Professor - 2

3.

Political Science

Asst. Professor - 1

4.

Sociology

Asst. Professor - 1

Application procedure: your application should be sent to shamatorcollege@ gmail.com by 15th May 2021 consisting of a) Application letter, b) Curriculum vitae, c) Scanned documents.

Gen MM Naravane

K-832

For further clarification, you may call: + 91-8415917659, + 91-8414842084, + 91-8974677672

DP-2166

ACHIEVERS ACADEMY

DP-2172

Admission in full swing for FRESH NPSC BATCH

K-842

NEW DELHI, APR 27 (PTI): Army Chief Gen MM Naravane on Tuesday visited eastern Ladakh and Siachen and reviewed India’s operational preparedness in the strategically key sectors, official sources said.

He was accompanied

by Lt Gen YK Joshi, Army Commander of the Northern Command, and Lt Gen PGK Menon, General Officer Commanding(GOC) of the Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps. The sources said Gen Naravane interacted with troops and complimented them for their steadfastness and high morale while being deployed in some of the harshest terrain, altitude and weather conditions.

The Chief of Army Staff was later briefed by Lt Gen Menon on the prevailing security situation and operational preparedness in the region. He is scheduled to return to the national capital on Wednesday.

New Delhi, April 27 (IANS): Nations across the world have come forward to help India in its fight against the raging second wave of the coronavirus pandemic, which is extremely virulent and has ravaged the country in the past few weeks.

As per official sources, the US, the UK, France, Ireland, Australia, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, the UAE, Kuwait and Russia have assured medical aid to India with much of the support on its way.

The UK is sending 495 oxygen concentrators, 120 non-invasive ventilators and 20 manual ventilators this week. Out of these, 100 ventilators and 95 oxygen concentrators have already arrived on Tuesday.

France is sending relief material in two phases. In the first phase, eight large oxygen generating units that can be installed quickly, liquid oxygen, 28 respirators and their consumables and 200 electric syringe pushers are arriving this week. In the second phase, five liquid oxygen containers will arrive

DP-2130

Army Chief Gen Naravane visits Ladakh & Siachen

(navel) or ‘chhati’ (chest) when a staff member asked her to place sandalwood sticks on the body of her father who had died of Covid.

The body was still packed in a white sack, which was placed on the pyre without opening.

Holding the sandalwood sticks in trembling hands, she moved around the body before being helped by someone.

“I didn’t even see the face of my father,” wailed the woman, who was alone.

Manmeet Singh, a 40year-old assistant professor, also carried his father Gurpal Singh’s dead body in his car to the Subhash Nagar crematorium on Monday afternoon.

But the staff politely told him his father couldn’t be cremated because the pyre chambers were already full and the CNG crematorium at the centre could only accommodate two bodies at one time.

It takes about 90 minutes to dispose of one body in a CNG chamber and a PTI correspondent counted 24 bodies waiting in queue for a slot.

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DP-2118(A)

toll was 57, and in March 117.

As if the trauma of losing a loved one to the virus so suddenly is not enough, there is more grief in store for relatives who are not even able to give them a proper send-off.

They arrive at crematoriums with bodies, only to be turned away. They drive to another facility, and yet another, traversing the city with the mortal remains in personal cars or ambulances, desperately seeking a graceful exit for their father, mother, son or daughter from the material world.

The trauma is no less for the relatives of those who died of non-Covid causes but are being swept

perform the last rites.

When Aman realised there was no point in pleading, he arranged for a refrigerator to prevent his father’s dead body from decaying.

“What could I have done when there was no space? We kept the body in a rented fridge and have come early today (Tuesday),” said Aman, waiting for his turn as many other people milled around silently with dead bodies lying on the floor.

Outside, ambulances and cars honked and competed for parking space but inside all one could hear was the crackling of dry wood from the burning pyres -- all 50 of them roaring simultaneously.

A few sobs arose over the sound of the fires, and one could hear the unemotional intonations of instructions being given by the crematorium staff.

“Apna dead body uthao aur udhar line mein ja ke khade ho jao (Pick up your dead body and go stand in line),” said a young staffer.

A woman in her 40s was so stunned she couldn’t make out what was ‘nabhi’

World joins hands to rescue India from second wave of pandemic

DP-2169

New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI): Under the high tin roof, 50 funeral pyres burned fiercely on Tuesday, the hot air filled with smoke, fine ash and muted sobs of shellshocked famlies.

Nearby, lying unattended on the floor, and in scores of parked vehicles, more corpses awaited their turn, which relatives were told would come 16 to 20 hours later.

Shaking Delhi’s spirit and soul, an unimaginable tragedy is unfolding at New Delhi’s crematoriums struggling to cope with the deluge of the dead arriving at frightening pace.

“I have not seen such a bad situation ever before in my life. People are moving with the dead bodies of their loved ones from pillar to post ... almost all Delhi crematoriums are flooded with dead bodies,” Vineeta Massey, the owner of Massey Funerals, told PTI. By official count, 3,601 people have died this month, of them 2,267 in the last seven days alone in the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic which is terrorising and tormenting the city.

In all of February, the death

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national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

6

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Retailers fear $ 5 bn loss in Maha alone due to new lockdown None locks itself down during war, India must have protocol to be on job

Vol. XXxI NO. 141 Dimapur, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

F

ECI under scanner

or several decades since 1951, during conduct of elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has faced a lot of criticisms especially from politicians but it has managed to stay largely unscathed mainly as it made every effort to remain accountable. The ECI performs a thankless job and so in order to ensure free and fair elections it is crucial that the poll body remains independent. The indictments by two high courts- Calcutta and Madras- during the recent week, highlights the fact that the ECI’s reputation has reached a nadir. On April 26,2021 the Madra High Court had strongly pulled down the ECI for allowing political rallies across five states that went to the polls through various phases beginning from March 27 and the last phase(eighth) on April 28,2021, at a time when states were grappling with the second wave of COVID-19. It has been an open secret for some time that the poll body was unable to enforce its own guidelines. The Model Code of Conduct had been often flouted with impunity but the ECI took note only on selective cases and imposed a token ban on campaigning by leaders, who then repeat the offence.

The second wave of COVID-19 spiked transmissions in the poll-bound states. The Madras High Court reprimanded the ECI for failing to ensure strict adherence to COVID-19 norms and blamed it for being “singularly responsible” for accelerating the second wave. In fact, the Madras High Court even went to the extent of suggesting that the election commission officers should be booked on murder charges. When the counsel for the ECI maintained that measures had been taken to curb the spread of COVID-19, the chief justice of the high court slammed “were you on another planet when political rallies were being held?.” Earlier on April 22, on hearing three public interest litigations (PILs) seeking enforcement of Covid protocol during the West Bengal elections, a division bench presided by Chief Justice T B N Radhakrishnan said issuance of circulars and holding meetings on Covid safety were not enough and sought an affidavit by the poll body.

Even in July 2019, a group of 64 retired civil servants backed by seasoned academics and retired military personnel had accused the ECI of glaring bias in the 2019 Lok Sabha election and alleged that it was “one of the least free and fair elections that the country has had in the past three decades”. The group of 64 accused ECI of blatant acts of omission and commission that had compelled former CECs to reluctantly, question the decisions of the ECI. On March 15,2021 the Citizens’ Commission on Elections (CCE), chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Madan B Lokur, which examines critical aspects of conducting elections, released the second part of its report. CCE cited the decision of then CEC James Michael Lyngdoh in 2002 , who refused to hold elections in riot-torn Gujarat even after then BJP chief minister Narendra Modi dissolved the house and sought elections. CCE pointed this as an instance where the ECI proved its independence.

The CCE report red-flagged 2019 as the flashpoint from whence “grave doubts” were raised about the freedom and fairness of India’s general elections- the world’s largest democratic exercise. The CCE alleged that the ECI was drifting away from Article 324, which gives the ECI plenipotentiary powers to steer the electoral process.

DailyDevotion What Do You Want?

Do you seek great things for yourself? —Jeremiah 45:5 Are you seeking great things for yourself, instead of seeking to be a great person? God wants you to be in a much closer relationship with Himself than simply receiving His gifts— He wants you to get to know Him. Even some large thing we want is only incidental; it comes and it goes. But God never gives us anything incidental. There is nothing easier than getting into the right relationship with God, unless it is not God you seek, but only what He can give you.

If you have only come as far as asking God for things, you have never come to the point of understanding the least bit of what surrender really means.

You have become a Christian based on your own terms. You protest, saying, “I asked God for the Holy Spirit, but He didn’t give me the rest and the peace I expected.” And instantly God puts His finger on the reason– you are not seeking the Lord at all; you are seeking something for yourself. Jesus said, “Ask, and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7). Ask God for what you want and do not be concerned about asking for the wrong thing, because as you draw ever closer to Him, you will cease asking for things altogether.

“Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:8). Then why should you ask? So that you may get to know Him. Are you seeking great things for yourself? Have you said, “Oh, Lord, completely fill me with your Holy Spirit”? If God does not, it is because you are not totally surrendered to Him; there is something you still refuse to do. Are you prepared to ask yourself what it is you want from God and why you want it? God always ignores your present level of completeness in favor of your ultimate future completeness. He is not concerned about making you blessed and happy right now, but He’s continually working out His ultimate perfection for you— “…that they may be one just as We are one…” (John 17:22).

Quotes

Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent. ~ Napoleon Bonaparte

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

I

ndia has to learn to be on working mode and not shut or lock itself down repeatedly. After loss of productivity, jobs and severe thaw in the economy for a year, it should have evolved a protocol to restore normal working conditions.

The hits come at a time when International Monetary Fund just predicts a possible 12.5 growth in 2022 and forecast India as the fastest-growing economy. The second erratic closure may throw a spanner.

During the last 100 years it has suffered many epidemics but never closed down the establishments.

During the difficult times all individuals and organisations came together to strive and restore normalcy. The mid 1990s Surat plague was also combated like that and the dirty city reemerged as a beautiful clean destination but it did not shut its business activities.

Even after nine months after the unlocking process most industries, including education, tourism, travel and even government offices have not gone back to the usual mode. Direct and indirect job losses are hitting not only the economy

but social and family lives.

The minus 23.9 percent fall in GDP during the lockdown and still speculations by national and international organisations about the growth; another bout of widespread closures and uncertainties are hitting all activities.

The nation remembers that nationwide sudden lockdown on March 25, 2020 at a four-hour notice led to 10.9 million (1.1 crore) jobs being lost and termed the worst-ever year for the job market. It does not include the trek back of at least another 10 crore migrant workers, of a supposed 18 crore, to their homes impacting MNREGA expenses.

There is no centralized data available for how many jobs were created during July-December 2020, a volatile period. In total, HR consultants estimate one million (ten lakh) jobs were added during this period.

Now many of these jobs, most in irregular employment, are threatened to be lost again.

Many companies like Parle Products, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Ceat and Axis Bank have largely gone back to WFH format for corporate

employees. Many others like ITC, Samsung, RPG, Dabur, Haier, Vedanta, Vivo and Panasonic have issued new guidelines to the workers. Aditya Birla group Global HR director S Misra says that office attendance may come down to 30 percent against the present 50 to 60 percent.

This reduces companies’ productivity or not it affects travel and transport, restaurant, entertainment and allied sectors.

A c cording Shivaji to CMIE, since January 2021 about 12 million additional people get jobs, the highest since March 2020. But the April lockdowns can make many of them lose it again.

Stock market is again rocked with both BSE and Nifty slipping every day, banks fretting over another spike in defaults and credit quality, and the manufacturing activity at its lowest pace in seven months restricted by covid19 panic.

The curbs imposed almost all over the country and beginning of a second wave of exodus of migrant workers back to their home could dent manufacturing, core sector activities, supply of goods & services and the

overall demand.

The rating agency ICRA says that bad loans of Indian banks could rise to 9.7 percent in 2021 and 10.2 percent in 2022 from gross bad loans at 9.6 percent in March 2020 and 8.3 percent in December 2020.

The December decline is due to writing off of Rs 1.1 lakh crore of such loans.

A nation tr ying to recover is being hit hard again. Retailers Association of India (RAI) estimates retailers will lose about Sarkar $ 5 billion in Maharashtra alone in April. It says that Maharashtra alone accounts for 10 percent of $ 85 billion of India’s annual retail sales. It says that sales of automobiles, consumer durables, smart phones and apparels, which have just started recovering, will be adversely affected. Even partial lockdowns in different parts hit sales. Kirana stores across the country report that there are no major increase or customer walk-ins.

Work from home occasionally for maximum worker utilization cannot be a permanent mode. The online mode in a poor country like India with critical

cash flow in rural areas increases hardship and is devastating the education sector, largely private as income-deprived parents are unable to pay the tuition fees leading to closure of several lakh budget schools in Bihar, UP, Rajasthan, MP and many other states.

They can neither afford increasing data costs nor they have connectivity nor even smart phones or laptops.

The new generation feels not only deprived but also discriminated leading to a severe social divide. In Bihar, the budget school owners are up in arms against the irrational lockdowns.

The situation remains alarming as the factory activity grew at its weakest in March 2021. The Nikkei manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) declined to a seven-month low of 55.4 from 57.5 in February on demand squeeze. A Reuters survey says that Asia’s third largest economy despite some recent improvements is heading for the biggest risk to the outlook. The rupee is already taking a hit for national, international situations as well as severe price hike and income squeeze.

The country cannot also relax fiscal deficit

norms as suggested by Home Minister Amit Shah.

Rising government debts may have many dangers.

The second largest populated country having a capacity to grow fast has to change its policies. It cannot force repeated closures of social and economic activities for an unconfirmed fear of a disease. Some health sector people link the new supposed surge to intense vaccination. Even the efficacy of the vaccine produced in a jiffy is being questioned as the production and testing process are yet to be made public. It is also said that pneumonia vaccine has yet not been found even after over 100 years of modern medicine.

The concerns may remain though the fears are more speculative.

However, it calls for the nation and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reconsider whether every now and then the country should impose jittery closures. A protocol must be developed so that it continues its work as during war time with least of disruption during any future epidemic. Diseases surge and go but a nation has to sprint to success without closing down for a day.

Post-mortem

Immunity boosting millets

M

illets need to be promoted more proactively by the government, to boost its demand and consumption to turn it into a profitable crop for the farmers.

A positive fallout of the Covid-19 could be described as a change in our eating habits and foods, which we consume. As everyone is trying to boost their immunity and stay active during in-home stretches, every one is looking forward to get a balanced and nutritious diet, which could help them fight off the Covid-19 virus.One such cereal, which has assumed greater attention in these anxieties filled days,ismillet.

Millets have been around for centuries as a food group but somewhere down the line, particularly in India, we seem to have replaced them with polished rice and maida-mixed wheat. Consuming millets was considered to be meant for the poor.

Ancient grains like jowar, ragi, foxtail, bajra and other minor millets are promising cereals which are nutritionally superior to major cereals and serve as a good source of protein, high dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and micronutrients. Millets seem to be in demand again as it is known to be an immunity booster. Do you know what was the staple grain of India a few decades back?You would be surprised to know it was the humble millets;also currently one-third of the world’s population consumes millets regularly. But the small, humble grains are finally getting their due as super food and powerhouse of immunity.Millets are now on the verge of becoming superstars of nutrition. Millets are a rich source of a wide variety of micronutrients such as calcium, thiamine and magnesium. It is the presence of these micronutrients that support the immune system.

Millets are a good source of protein, high dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and micronutrients.

What are millets and their advantages?

As per agricultural scientists, Millets are a group of small-grained cereal food crops, which are highly tolerant to drought and other extreme weather conditions and are grown with low chemical inputs such as fertilisers and pesticides. Most of the millet crops are native to India and are popularly known as nutri-cereals as they provide most of the nutrients required for normal functioning of

human body. Millets are classified into Major Millets and Minor Millets based on their grain size.

Millets are gluten free and non-allergenic. Millet consumption decreases triglycerides and C-reactive protein, thereby preventing cardiovascular diseases. All millets are rich in dietary fibre. Dietary fibre has water absorbing and bulking property. It increases transit time of food in the gut, which helps in reducing risk of inflammatory bowel disease, and acts as detoxifying agent in the body.

Nutritionists promote millets, as they are gluten-free, highly nutritious and rich in dietary fibre. They are rich in micronutrients, including calcium, iron, phosphorus, etc. They are low in Glycemic Index (GI) and as such don’t cause huge spike in blood sugar. Thus, millets should ideally be an integral part of our daily diet.

Many doctors endorse the positive affects of consuming millets, as they are antiacidic and gluten free; helps to prevent type 2 diabetes; are effective in reducing blood pressure; reduces risk of gastrointestinal conditions like gastric ulcers or colon cancer; eliminate problems like constipation, excess gas, bloating and cramping. Millets also act as a probiotic feeding micro flora in our inner ecosystem.

Millets hydrate our colon to keep us from being constipated. Millets contain major and minor nutrients in good amount.

Millets are high in nutrition and dietary fibre. They ser ve as good source of protein, micronutrients and phytochemicals. The millets contain 7-12% protein, 2-5% fat, 65-75% carbohydrates and 15-20% dietary fibre. The essential amino acid profile of the millet protein is better than various cereals such as maize. Millets contain fewer cross-linked prolamins, which may be an additional factor contributing to higher digestibility of the millet proteins.

Millet promotion by the government The Gover nment of India marked 2018 as the National Year of Millets to boost production of the nutrient-rich millets and the agro-industries involved in its production. As per Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India needs to work on the Millets revolution in order to ensure a nutritious diet and good health. Under his stewardship India sponsored

a UN resolution to get 2023 declared as International Year of the Millets, aimed at enhancing production and consumption of millets.

The Indian policymakers have refocused their attention towards millet farming systems and enacted policies to create an enabling environment for the farmers. With respect to millets production, some of the existing schemes by the Government of India include: Integrated Cereals Development Programmes in Coarse Cereals (ICDPCC), Macro Management of Agriculture (MMA), Initiative for Nutritional Security through Intensive Millet Promotion (INSIMP), a part of RashtriyaKrishiVikasYojana (RKVY) which is the only comprehensive initiative to support millet production. But cultivation of millets should be promoted in drylands states and also mountainous regions to generate additional income for the farmers.

However, a lot still needs to be done to give millets their due share in the food chain of the population. The policy makers should try to focus on a greater integration of a national mission and submissions on nutri-cereals with the flagship PoshanAbhiyaan.

The focus on revival of millets should be complimented by the revival of consumption by producers. A collective, or cluster marketing approach, may help growers. Various states have been distributing millets through the public distribution system (PDS),the government needs to increase its distribution in other states too. Efforts should also be made to include the nutrientrich smaller millets in the mid-day meal schemes in government and governmentaided schools in the states, to promote their acceptability.

Now a dayeveryone is concerned about increasing their immunity and pursuing a healthy and fit diet for a healthy body. Millets could help in achieving this at a lesser cost. The government targeting the young and health conscious to different forms of millets, for a healthy and immunity boosting diet should launch a publicity campaign promoting millets.

As demand would lead the supply, millets can assume once again a prime place in our regular diet, and also bring a larger area in the country under cultivation.

Asad Mirza Asad Mirza is a political commentator based in New Delhi.

NSCN’s stand on Naga flag, constitution

T

he National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) when approached by the Government of India (GoI) to start the Indo-Naga peace process did set the terms very loud and clear that GoI must agree to recognize the Naga issue as political and stopped terming it as India’s “Internal Law and Order Issue”. The Indo-Naga Ceasefire was thus officially declared on the 1st August, 1997 and it was agreed that the political dialogue shall be at the highest level, i.e. Prime Minister Level; Without Pre-condition and Outside in a Third Country. Significantly, somebody other than the Prime of India making critical statement on crucially important issue like the Naga National Flag is like wrecking the Indo-Naga Ceasefire agreement at the wrong time because agreement on this particular issue is deeply linked to signing the agreement for Naga political solution. Naturally, Nagas were blazing with indignation when the Union Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah in his meeting with Nagaland Chief Minister in New Delhi stated that he is willing to hoist the Naga flag on Naga Day if invited for the occasion. But at the same time he said he is against granting a separate Naga flag and constitution to the Nagas. This is nothing less than a terrible sense of humorous insult to the Naga people. How can somebody in a high position have the temerity of playing drama and tamasha on such sentimental issues that are inseparable for Naga political solution?

The elusive Naga political issue cannot be undermined by giving the Union Home Minister a freewheeling power to make a meaningless statement bereft of political drive towards Naga political solution. It is highly a preposterous idea for the GoI to disallow Naga flag to be used in Government offices and establishments but only to be used as a merry-making item

in cultural functions. Nothing would come more outrages than this absurdity. And Nagas are never going to tolerate this kind of irresponsible and hollow utterance emanating from Mr. Amit Shah. It would be a pleasure for the Nagas to welcome anyone to hoist and fly the Naga flag in Naga soil but not in the manner to belittle the Naga political issue.

Going by the history of Naga political movement beginning from the British Rule of India, the Naga flag is unconquered or surrendered to any force. The Naga people will, therefore, never put themselves in a disgraceful position by selling the Naga flag for the sake of hastening Naga solution. God forbid such a breach of trust-covenant made between God and Naga people.

NSCN has put on record that Nagas are not asking permission from GoI to fly our Naga National Flag but we are simply reiterating our stand that GoI should not obstruct in the usage of our flag which is our honour and political identity.

Notably, the Framework Agreement of the 3rd August, 2015 entered the crucial agreement of the need to coexist peacefully between the two entities with shared sovereignty between India and Nagas. It cannot also sideline the historical fact that the Naga flag was flown since 1947, even before India got independence from the British rule. The Naga people need not be perturbed by the unilateral statement of Mr. Amit Shah when no bilateral decision has come about yet. Crucial outcome of the Indo-Naga political talks are to be made with the consent of the two parties with the full knowledge and blessing of the Prime Minister and not necessarily by the Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI which is not the authorized platform to make any official statement on Naga political solution at this critical stage.

MIP, NSCN/GPRN

Reader’s Post Sir,

The Return of COVID-19

“The virus is gone now” No... No.., It hasn’t. It is back with entire family and relatives to attack us with greatest force”. The precarious second wave of COVID-19 infection has hit nationwide with greater ferocity than the first. Despite a year of prepare, we have been caught again. However, this time, there are tools to tackle the infection, healthcare workers are better equipped and more informed about the virus and there are also vaccines to counter back the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has opened our eyes to the impotence of health sector. It has made us realize that unless the entire population has access to quality healthcare, all of us are at high risk. The rise of ‘second wave’ has the public authorities truly worried? What could be the reasons behind the Second wave?

The authorities share the blame towards health system to be caught lacking and for vaccine shortage. Vaccine hesitancy, policy hesitancy and fast spreading virus all added to the strategy of return of COVID-19 and there have been consistent failures nationwide to prevent the spread of virus, which has resulted in second wave. Public trust through clear and transparent communication is needed to counter misinformation and remove vaccine hesitancy and authorities needs to understand and address communities concerns with empathy, because this is not just about COVID-19, it is also about public trust in vaccines as a whole. The privet sector and NGOs played a big role during first wave and now, with political will and public participation, we should be able to save lives without letting many more fall behind through in adequate safety nets.

Beyao K. Fuyashu, beyaokfuyashu@gmail.com

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

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

Enforcing COVID norms is Future generations won’t forgive you, Cal HC calls for enforcement responsibility of state: EC Priyanka writes to Yogi on COVID crisis of EC ban on rallies on May 2

Calcutta High Court (FILE)

KOLKATA, APR 27 (PTI): The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday directed all authorities to strictly enforce the ban imposed by the Election Commission on rallies and gatherings on May 2, the day of counting of votes and declaration of results of assembly elections in West Bengal and four other states.

The EC counsel apprised the court that it has banned all public meetings and victory processions throughout India on the said date in the wake of soaring

COVID-19 cases.

A restriction of a maximum of two persons has been placed on the winning party for collecting the certificate, the commission told a division bench comprising Chief Justice TBN Radhakrishnan and Justice Arijit Banerjee, which is hearing a set of PILs on observance of coronavirus guidelines during the election process.

“The restriction imposed by the Election Commission of India as indicated above, shall be strictly

enforced by all authorities concerned and it is so directed by this court,” the bench ordered.

Counsel for one of the petitioners also submitted that there is an acute shortage of hospital beds, oxygen cylinders and other medicines, and the state should file a report on the steps it is taking to alleviate such a situation.

Advocate General Kishore Dutta, appearing for the state, said daily health bulletins are published on West Bengal Health Department’s website and the same is in public domain.

Dutta said the petitioner is at liberty to access the website and find out what measures the state is taking.

The bench said it expects the petitioner to access the data and report about any grievance that he may have regarding the health bulletin on affidavit, before the court can consider passing any further order. The next date for hearing has been fixed for May 3.

New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI): Facing flak over its alleged failure to ensure COVID-19 appropriate behaviour during poll campaigns, the Election Commission on Tuesday said enforcing provisions of the law to fight the pandemic is the responsibility of state disaster management bodies.

The commission also asserted that it has continuously directed state and district authorities to enforce instructions of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The poll panel underlined that on “no occasion” it takes over the task of a state disaster management authority (SDMA) for enforcement of instructions issued in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Election Commission’s (EC) remarks came a day after the Madras High Court made harsh observations against it for failing to enforce COVID appropriate behaviour during poll campaigns. Elections have been held in Assam, Tamil Nadu,

Kerala and the Union Territory of Puducherry. The last of the eight phase West Bengal polls is on Thursday.

Counting for votes for all the assembly elections is on May 2.

The commission in a statement said while it will comply with all directions of the high court, on April 30, during the next hearing, it will apprise the bench of all the steps already taken by the poll panel for free, fair and safe elections.

It also said “statements being attributed to the Hon’ble High Court in certain sections of media” do not find mention in the order which was finally passed. The EC was apparently referring to the oral observations made by the bench against it.

Referring to the petition that was moved in the Madras High Court to ensure “COVID safe” counting on May 2, the statement said that similar petitions concerning COVID-19 compliant behaviour during ongoing elections were filed, and the EC had already responded to them.

HC reprimands Delhi government and Centre Check black marketing of oxygen & medicines: HC to Delhi govt

New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI): The Delhi High Court Tuesday directed the AAP government to check black marketing of oxygen cylinders and crucial medicines for COVID-19 patients and address the issue of oxygen distribution to hospitals as well as individuals.

It directed the Delhi government to file a report on the number of deaths of COVID-19 patients in hospitals and nursing homes due to the shortage of oxygen.

The high court also directed the government to take over the plant of an oxygen refiller for not sup-

plying gas to hospitals and allegedly giving it in black market, and made it clear that the same action should be taken with regard to other suppliers who refuse to fall in line.

Besides, it asked the Delhi government to take account of stock and sale of medicines such as Remdesivir, Fabiflu and Tocilizumab at hospitals’ pharmacies, as people are unable to get these drugs which are being sold at much higher rates in black market. A bench of Justices Vipin Sanghi and Rekha Palli, which was hearing the case relating to oxygen crisis

and shortage of medicines to treat COVID-19 patients for over three hours, said non-accounting of oxygen cylinders supplies by Delhi government was leading to “artificial shortage of gas and black marketing”. The court observed it is not the time to become vultures.

“Are you aware of black marketing. Is it a good human gesture,” the bench said to oxygen refillers. It also said the Delhi government’s entire system has failed as black marketing of oxygen cylinders and crucial medicines for treating COVID-19 patients is going on.

Millions of Remdesivir exported, citizens here suffering due to its shortage: HC The Delhi High Court on Tuesday said that millions of vials of Remdesivir, used in treatment of COVID-19, may have been exported by India, but its own citizenry was “suffering due to acute shortage of the drug”. Justice Prathiba M Singh said several companies in India were manufacturing the medicine and millions of vials of the drug must have been exported, “but we do not have enough to cater to our own patients”. “Statis-

tics show that shortage of the drug in Delhi is acute,” the court said and asked the Centre, DCGI and ICMR whether there has been any change in the guidelines with regard to administering Remdesivir. The court also asked the Centre on what basis it was deciding how much of the drug was to be allocated to the Delhi government and whether anyone can directly approach the manufactures or suppliers for buying the medicine.

Lucknow/ New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI): Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Tuesday wrote to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, alleging low testing for COVID-19, a shortage of oxygen beds and a sluggish vaccination drive in the state, which is battling a “terrible” second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

In her letter to Adityanath, the Congress general secretary also alleged coronavirus patients and their attendant were scrambling for beds, medicines and oxygen in the state to no avail.

Uttar Pradesh Monday reported 249 coronavirus deaths, the highest single-day fatality count so far, and 33,574 fresh cases.

The infection has killed 11,414 people in the state till Monday, “If you don’t employ the entire resources of the government with determination in this hour of crisis, the future generations will never forgive you,” she

Alleging an abdication of leadership and governance by the Centre in the face of the COVID-19 second wave, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday urged people to show compassion and be each other’s strongest support to tide over the coronavirus crisis.

In a Facebook post titled ‘We Shall Overcome’, Priyanka Gandhi said that “by gathering up our strength amidst despair, by doing whatever we can to provide comfort to others, by refusing to tire and persisting with the will to carry on against all odds, we shall overcome”. Reaching out to people in an emotional post, the Congress general secretary said, “My heart is heavy as I write to you today. I know that many of you have lost your loved ones in the last few weeks, many have family members who are struggling for life, and many are grappling with the disease at home, anxious and afraid of what is to come.” Noting that there is no one who has not been affected by this “scourge”, she said that people across the country are “gasping for air, struggling to access medical care or simply to get the next dose of life saving medicine”.

“The government has failed us all. Even those of us who oppose and fight them could not have foreseen a complete abdication of leadership and governance at a time as devastating as this. In our hearts, we too are still hoping that they will rise up and take steps that are imperative to save lives,” Priyanka Gandhi said.

But even though those given the sacred task of governing this nation have “let the country down” at this time of great crisis, people must not lose hope, she said.

Underlining that humanity has risen up to the challenge of adversity time and again, Priyanka Gandhi said India has seen great pain and suffering in the past as well, it has weathered cyclones and droughts, massive earthquakes, famines and devastating floods, and yet people’s spirit has not been broken.

administered vaccine doses against COVID-19 in Maharashtra on Monday, the highest in one day so far, the state government has said.

“The Maharashtra government vaccinated 5,34,372 people yesterday,” health minister Rajesh Tope told reporters on Tuesday.

As many as 4,678 healthcare workers were given their first dose of the

24,987 and 16,530 frontline workers got their first and second jabs, respectively, on Monday. Besides, 3,05,186 persons above 45 years of age got their first dose and 1,70,812 had their second dose, the minister informed.

In Mumbai alone 69,922 people were inoc-

cine jabs in the country’s financial capital, Tope said.

Across the state, 1,49,21,411 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

“Maharashtra is leading in the country in absolute numbers of vaccinated people.

We can do a better job still if more doses are made available,” Tope said.

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hospital some ten days ago after her condition deteriorated following coronavirus infection,” said Prahlad Modi, the prime minister’s younger brother.

“She breathed her last at the hospital today,” he added. Her husband Jagjivandas, brother of the prime minister’s father Damodardas, had died many years ago, said Prahlad Modi.

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HEADMISTRESS AND TEACHERS WANTED AT SHEMFORD ROING, DIBANG VALLEY, ARUNACHAL PRADESH. Applications are invited from eligible candidates and qualified teachers for appointment as HEADMISTRESS from 2021-22 session at Shemford Roing a secondary co-ed residential school situated at Roing, Lower Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh.

QUALIFICATIONS AND ELIGIBILITY. >> Three(3) years as Headmistress, Post Graduate and not below 35 years with a minimum B.Ed degree.

SALARY AND OTHER BENEFITS >> Rs.45000/- plus accommodation and food services in the campus.

Applications are also invited from eligible and qualified teachers for appointment to the post of English, Mathematics and Science teacher from 2021-22 in the same school.

QUALIFICATION AND ELIGIBILITY. >> Three (3) years as teacher of the subject, Post Graduate and not below 35 years of age with a minimum B.Ed degree.

SALARY AND OTHER BENEFITS. >> Rs.30000/- with accommodation and food services in the campus. >> Applicants must be willing to serve for a minimum of 3 years.

Interested persons may apply at shemford@roing.com.

Last date for receiving applications : 10th MAY 2021.

said in her letter, in which she has also made 10 suggestions on fighting the raging pandemic.

She said the second wave of the pandemic is at its peak in many cities of Uttar Pradesh and “is now spreading to villages”.

“The biggest concern is that the rate of coronavirus cases is rising, while testing is very low. A large number of cases are not being reported,” Gandhi alleged in her letter in Hindi.

She said the war against COVID-19 rests on four pillars of testing, treatment, tracking and vaccination.

‘Govt has failed us’: Priyanka appeals to people be each other’s support to tide over COVID crisis

PM Modi’s aunt dies Over 5 L vaccinated in Maha, highest in a day Apr 27 (PTI): vaccine while 12,179 got a ulated. So far, 23,48,240 during COVID treatment Mumbai, Over five lakh people were second dose, he said. Also, people have received vacAhmedabad, Apr 27 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aunt Narmadaben Modi who was undergoing treatment for coronavirus infection died at the civil hospital here on Tuesday, the family said.

Narmadaben (80) lived in the New Ranip area of the city with her children.

“Our aunt Narmadaben was admitted to the civil

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra

“There is no testing in rural areas and people in the urban areas also area facing a lot of difficulties in getting their tests done. Test reports do not come for several days. In a state with a population of over 23 crore, there are only 126 government test centres and 115 private centres,” she said.

She said another big concern area was an alleged lack of hospital beds, medical oxygen, and an acute shortage of medicines and their massive black-marketing. “The Ayushman card scheme has failed, it is not being honoured by any hospital. People are being forced to pay three-four times more for oxygen, Remedesivir and other life-saving drugs,” she said, adding it is difficult for the poor and middle class to get treatment in such a scenario.

She also alleged people have to face a lot of difficulties at crematoriums and death figures are also being “underreported”.

No. 3546 Yesterday’s solution No. 3545

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Diphupar 'B' Ongpangkong Union has proposed to celebrate Moatsu Festival on 03-05-2021 but due to Pa nde mic sit ua t ion t he programme has been canceled.

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FOR SALE -LAND WITH BUILDING-

Force Pick Up King Kargo

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Interested parties may contact : 9856901142 DP-2000

at Naga United Village @ Rs. 80, 00,000/(Slightly Negotiable) No Brokers Genuine buyers only.

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LAND FOR SALE LAND FOR SALE

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LAND FOR SALE KOHIMA

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Driver in Dimapur Free Lodging and Fooding Preferably 28 years above Salary - Rs. 6000/Contact : 9612921622

Contact: Mr. Binod Mothey Ph.No:+91 7005154529 8974201741 The Blue Bayou Opp. War Cemetery, Kohima

LAND FOR SALE

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ADMISSION GOING ON

APARTMENT TO LET

IN PRIME KOHIMA TOWN

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GOVT. RECOGNISED NEAR SECRETARIAT OFFICE (KOHIMA) AFFORDABLE FEES

On April 30, the polling would begin at 4 p.m. to be followed by counting of votes at 4:30 p.m. and declaration of results at 5 p.m.

Voting system for the election will be through secret ballot with all the 17 affiliated units each allowed to cast two votes totalling 34 votes, Ndang said.

So far there were five aspiring candidates for the post of the president while two for the post of general secretary subject to change, Ndang said.

Keeping the SOPs in mind, NSF is expecting a total of 150 to 200 delegates to attend the conference including other guests.

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tiguous Naga inhabited areas irrespective of artificial boundaries. He however said that this year would be an exception given the nature of the situation.

Kithan said conference theme “Towards Harmony” was coined keeping in mind the importance of coexistence among Nagas and also in harmony with the neighbouring states. He further said all necessary SOPs would be strictly followed during the conference.

Meanwhile, NSF election commission chairman K Elu Ndang informed that NSF will be conducting its bi-annual election during the conference. Ndang informed that nominations forms would be issued on April 29, 2021 from 12 noon onwards and closed by 10 a.m. the next day. This would shortly be followed by submission of electoral college and nomination papers while withdrawal of nomination will be from 12 noon to 2 p.m. . Subsequently, scru-

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No. 4522 Yesterday’s solution No. 4521

New Delhi, Apr 27 (PTI): Gold was marginally higher by Rs 69 to Rs 46,906 per 10 gram in the national capital on Tuesday, according to HDFC Securities.

In the previous trade, the precious metal had closed at Rs 46,837 per 10 gram. Silver also moved higher by Rs 255 to Rs 67,890 per kilogram from Rs 67,635 per kilogram in the previous trade.

In the international market, gold was quoting marginally lower at USD 1,778 per ounce and silver was flat at USD 26.15 per ounce.

“Gold prices traded marginally down with spot gold prices at COMEX (New York-based commodities exchange) trading at USD 1,778 per ounce on Tuesday. Gold prices fluctuated in narrow range trading marginally down on firm dollar index,” according to HDFC Securities, Senior Analyst (Commodities), Tapan Patel.

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No. 9903 Yesterday’s solution No. 9902

Across 1. Lawful (5) 6. Hag (5) 9. Of the stomach (7) 10. Two-footed animal (5) 11. Sharp end (5) 12. Broaden (5) 13. Male servant (7) 15. Father (3) 17. Plant (4) 18. Lying face upwards (6) 19. Outrider (5) 20. Stink (6) 22. Assistant (4) 24. Small piece (3) 25. Conspirator (7) 26. Present age (5) 27. Small Eurasian mammal (5) 28. Money resources (5) 29. Sure (7) 30. Mistake (5) 31. Party, informally (5) Down 2. Newspaper boss (6) 3. Representatives (6) 4. Stripling (3) 5. Tarnish (5) 6. Destroy completely (4,3) 7. Religious image (4) 8. H i g h - k i c k i n g dance (6) 12. Spectate (5) 13. Foremost (5) 14. Lubricated (5) 15. Finger or toe (5) 16. Discourage (5) 18. Soil (5) 19. Child’s vehicle (7) 21. Deposit on teeth (6) 22. Adjust or accustom (6) 23. Numb, dampen (6) 25. Adhesive (5) 26. M exican snack (4) 28. Petty lie (3)

Gold gains NSF relocates gen. conference venue p-1) tiny and announcement of marginally; silver (Fromconferences were not candidates will be made folconfined to Nagaland lowed with self introduction higher by Rs 255 only but organised in all the con- by the candidates.

LAND FOR SALE at TOULAZOUMA VILLAGE 100x100, 100x200 # 7005639447

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KAKURO

government, while trying to provide assistance, could not work unless the citizens cooperate by just following the three simple SOPs universally acknowledged as a standard protocol to protect oneself from COVID-19.

He said the State had three BSL labs, 32 Truenat machines, 260 beds with oxygen support and 66 ICU beds till date and had received an order from the Centre to set up three oxygen plants, which would be installed at Kohima, Dimapur and Mokokchung.

As on April 27 morning, Kikon said altogether 1,86,350 doses of vaccines had been administered to people.

To a query, he said DTFs had been asked to review and address the issue of artificial price rise of essential commodities since movement of vehicles was not restricted.

ter before the Fed meeting outcome later tonight. The Federal Reserve will remain accommodative at its meeting despite robust growth and think of trimming its USD 120 billion in monthly asset purchases at end of the year,” Parmar said.

He further noted that “we could see month end adjustment tomorrow and USDINR likely to show 74.50 odd levels while on higher side 75.20 remains strong resistance.”

pur and Peren districts, distributing 94,000 flavoured milk bottles free to children in government schools in Dimapur and Kohima and installing nine bore wells for drinking water in remote village of Mokokchung and Longleng.

He said the initiative of providing 24 life-support ambulances during this time of medical emergency in the backdrop of COVID-19 was part of this CSR initiative.

Equipped with oxygen, cardiac monitor, AC, power backup and defibrillator, the 24 ambulances were distributed to 12 districts and some important health units.

Health & family welfare principal director Dr Kevichusa Medikhrü chaired the programme.

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Su doku

be opened at all entry points.

Further, Kikon said, building on the experience gathered last year, the cabinet decided that entry of goods-carrying vehicles transiting the State would be allowed at entry points after proper screening of drivers and attendants of such vehicles, adding that other routes would remain closed and the international border remained sealed as before.

State fully prepared to tackle COVID second wave Meanwhile, Kikon claimed that the State was fully prepared to face the challenge and ready for any eventuality as officials, frontline workers, doctors, nurses, etc, had the experience of one year and the infrastructure had been ramped up.

However, observing that many citizens were still careless with the protocols, he said the

(From p-1) The chief minister called for maintaining carefully old and outdated ambulances and use them for primary health centres so that these reached the people at the grassroots and help them avail healthcare services.

In his brief address, NHIDCL executive director MS Doel said the corporation has a vision to make Nagaland among the best connected States of the country within a short period of time with continued proactive support.

He claimed that during the last 11 months, NHIDCL had also contributed towards social uplift by running four skill development programmes in Phek, Dima-

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Crossword

(From p-1)  Persons above 65 years of age, persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years are advised to take necessary precautions.  Shopping malls, will be permitted to open outside the containment zone subject to strict adherence of SOPs.  Respective District Task Force may decide on opening and closure of only 50% shops on any particular day in a market with necessary measures to avoid crowding.

DTFs to strictly enforce the consolidated guidelines order with effect from April 30May14.

With regard to reports about fake certificates Covid negative test report, he said it was mandatory for every returnee to get tested and testing centres would

paise over its previous closing. On Monday, the rupee had settled at 74.73 against the American currency.

“Indian rupee continues the upward momentum started on Monday on upbeat risk sentiments,” said Dilip Parmar, Research Analyst, HDFC Securities.

Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, rose 0.20 per cent to 90.98.

“Dollar is treading wa-

Rio flags off 24 ambulances sponsored by NHIDCL

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(From p-1) Further, it stated that Aadhar enrolment centre would be temporarily closed and minimum usage of biometrics would be ensured by banks to prevent spread of infection.

Customers have been advised to visit branches for availing essential services and suggested use of digital channel for non-essential services.

In case of any staff member found to be Covid positive, the branch should be closed down immediately and reopen after proper fumigation and sanitization.

SBI also suggested the feasible business continuity plan (BCP) for all the SLBC member banks in Nagaland to provide selective essential banking services to customers such as cash deposit and withdrawals; government transactions; clearing of cheques and remittance. Besides, branch could provide any other services as deemed fit.

Lockdown-like measures from Apr 30 to May 14

Mumbai, Apr 27 (PTI): The rupee appreciated by 7 paise to close at 74.66 (provisional) against the US dollar on Tuesday on the back of positive domestic equities.

At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened at 74.65 against the greenback and witnessed an intra-day high of 74.51 and a low of 74.73.

It finally ended at 74.66 against the American currency, registering a rise of 7

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SLBC mulls reducing working hours

firm for conducting statutory audit.

“It shall be ensured that joint auditors of the entity do not have any common partners and they are not under the same network of audit firms. Further, the entity may finalise the work allocation among SCAs/ SAs, before the commencement of the statutory audit, in consultation with their SCAs/SAs,” it said.

The guidelines further said that in order to protect the independence of the auditors/audit firms, entities will have to appoint the SCAs/SAs for a continuous period of three years, subject to the firms satisfying the eligibility norms each year.

allocation for other sectors may continue at their prescribed limits, the additional Rs 25,000 crore may be made available exclusively to medium and small NBFCs, through SIDBI, for period of 3 years,” it said.

Sonam Chandwani, Managing Partner at KS Legal & Associates said that in the midst of the second wave of Covid-19, the NBFCs are more likely to be knocked back than before, therefore, permission for loan restructuring and liquidity support from the RBI would offload immense pressure off small and medium-sized NBFCs. “Moreover, considering the fact that NBFCs are highly risk averse, flow of liquidity would undoubtedly enable consumers and small firms to heave a sigh of relief. Also, though the lockdown has witnessed saving of only a minimal class of the population, cash flow crunch is still evident, thereby permitting loan restructuring could avoid coercive recovery measures,” she said.

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operative Banks (UCBs) and NBFCs from 2021-22, “they shall have the flexibility to adopt these guidelines from the second half of FY 202122, in order to ensure that there is no disruption”.

Banks and UCBs will be required to take prior approval of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for appointment/reappointment of SCAs/SAs, on an annual basis, the guidelines said.

For entities with an asset size of Rs 15,000 crore and above as at the end of previous year, statutory audit should be conducted under joint audit of a minimum of two audit firms. All other entities should appoint a minimum of one audit

Mumbai, Apr 27 (IANS): The Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC) has written to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) seeking permission to restructure loans given

by NBFCs in the wake of the deep Covid crisis.

The NBFC body, in its letter to the RBI Governor, said that the borrower accounts, which are ‘standard’ accounts as on March 31, 2021, may be allowed restructuring without any downgrade in asset classification, subject , however to the lending NBFCs undertaking fresh credit assessment of the borrowing entity.

It requested the RBI to consider advising banks and financial institutions to allow one-time restructuring of loans given by them to small NBFCs only (NBFCs with total asset size of less than Rs 500 crore).

The FIDC fur ther urged the central bank to increase the overall support outlay to AIFIs from Rs 50,000 crore to at least Rs 75,000 crore.

“While the existing

Rupee extends gains; closes at 74.66 against dollar

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Mumbai, Apr 27 (PTI): The Reserve Bank of India on Tuesday issued guidelines for appointment of statutory auditors of banks and nonbanking finance companies (NBFCs), including housing finance companies.

‘Guidelines for Appointment of Statutory Central Auditors (SCAs)/ Statutory Auditors (SAs) of Commercial Banks (excluding RRBs), UCBs and NBFCs (including HFCs)’ will be applicable for financial year 2021-22 and onwards.

However, non-deposit taking NBFCs with asset size below Rs 1,000 crore have the option to continue with their extant procedure.

The guidelines provide necessary instructions for appointment of SCAs/SAs, the number of auditors, their eligibility criteria, tenure and rotation, etc. while ensuring the independence of auditors, the Reserve Bank said.

As the guidelines are being implemented for the first time for Urban Co-

NBFC body urges RBI to allow loan restructuring

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

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RBI nod for appointments of statutory auditors

business/state

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international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

reserves judgement on Clashes erupt in Myanmar; junta to ‘consider’ ASEAN plan WHO Indian coronavirus variant

Bangkok, Apr 27 (Reuters): Fighting erupted in eastern Myanmar near the Thai border early on Tuesday as ethnic minority Karen insurgents attacked an army outpost in some of the most intense clashes since a February 1 coup plunged Myanmar into crisis.

The clash came as the junta, in an apparent setback for an attempt by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to end Myanmar‘s turmoil, said it would “positively” consider the bloc’s suggestions made at a weekend meeting in Indonesia.

Southeast Asian leaders said on the weekend they had reached a consensus with the junta on steps to end violence and promote dialogue between the rival Myanmar sides.

The Karen National Union (KNU), Myanmar‘s oldest rebel force, said it had captured the army camp on the west bank of the Salween river, which forms the border with Thailand in the area.

Smoke rises from a Myanmar army camp near the border of Myanmar and Thailand on Tuesday. Ethnic Karen guerrillas said they captured a Myanmar army base.

(Transborder News vis AP)

Villagers on the Thai side of the river said heavy gunfire started before sunrise. Video posted on social media showed flames and smoke on the forested hillside.

KNU forces had taken the outpost at around 5 am to 6 am (2230 to 2330 GMT), the group’s head of foreign affairs, Saw Taw

Nee, told Reuters.

He said the camp had been occupied and burned down and that the group was still checking on deaths and casualties. The spokesman said there had been fighting in other locations too, but did not give details.

The Karen Information Center media group

said the army base had been overrun. It said villagers had seen seven soldiers running away.

M ya n m a r ‘ s a r my made no immediate comment. It historically proclaimed itself the one institution that can keep the ethnically diverse country of more than 53 million people together, though

much of Myanmar has rallied in opposition to its coup.

The army base at the Thai border had been largely surrounded by KNU forces and food had run short there in recent weeks, according to Thai villagers who had contact with the soldiers.

A Thai official in Mae Hong Son province said one person had been lightly wounded in Thailand during the fighting.

The KNU agreed to a ceasefire in 2012, ending their insurgency for autonomy that began shortly after Myanmar‘s independence from Britain in 1948.

But their forces have clashed with the army since it seized power and cut short a decade of democratic reforms that had also brought relative peace to Myanmar‘s volatile borderlands.

About 24,000 people displaced in recent weeks by violence including military air strikes are sheltering in the jungle, Karen goups say.

Myanmar‘s main ethnic minority forces based in frontier regions have supported the largely urban-based pro-democracy opponents of the junta, whose security forces have killed more than 750 civilians protesting against the coup, according to an activist group.

Elsewhere in Myanmar, there have been relatively few reports of bloodshed since the weekend meeting between junta leader Min Aung Hlaing and Southeast Asian leaders to try to find a way out of the crisis.

The junta, in its first official comment on the meeting, said it would give “careful consideration to constructive suggestions … when the situation returns to stability”.

The suggestions would be “positively considered” if they facilitated the junta‘s own “roadmap”, and “serves the interests of the country and was based on purposes and principles enshrined in” ASEAN, it said in a statement.

G e n e va , A p r 2 7 (IANS): The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against jumping to conclusions about a new coronavirus variant discovered in India, saying it had not yet classified it as worrying. A WHO spokeswoman said that it was not clear at this point to what extent the variant was responsible for the rapid increase in cases in India in recent months, DPA news agency reported.

There are many factors that could have contributed to this, she said.

For example, festivals and other events with many participants may have accelerated infections.

The British coronavirus variant may also be affecting India’s epidemiological situation.

In India, more than 350,000 infections were reported within 24 hours on Monday, more than any country has reported in that timespan. With its 1.3 billion inhabitants, India has recorded a total

of more than 17 million infections.

The British, South African and Brazilian variants of Covid-19 have all been classified by the WHO as “variants of concern.”

The newest variant was first detected in India on December 1, 2020.

According to the WHO, a variant is considered worrying if it spreads more easily, causes more serious cases of the disease, bypasses the immune system or reduces the effectiveness of known treatments.

Overall, the number of reported infections per week has been increasing for nine weeks, while the number of reported deaths has been increasing for six weeks, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in Geneva on Monday. “There were almost as many cases last week as in the first five months of the pandemic combined,” said Tedros. In India in particular, the situation is “more than heartbreaking.”

India was there for us and we will be there for them: Biden SL Cabinet approves proposed ban on burqas

Berlin, Apr 27 (AP): World powers were set to resume high level talks in Vienna on Tuesday focused on bringing the United States back into the nuclear deal with Iran, in their first session since comments surfaced from the Iranian foreign minister alleging that Russia was trying to scupper the pact.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has thus far refused to comment on the remarks from Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, made in a seven-hour interview with a think tank associated with the Iranian presidency that leaked over the weekend. Russia’s top representative at the Vienna talks, Mikhail Ulyanov, who has outwardly been one of the most optimistic about the possibility of getting Tehran and Washington to agree to terms for the U.S. to

rejoin the 2015 deal, also made no mention of the allegations before the meetings, saying in a tweet only that “the participants will continue negotiations on restoration of the nuclear deal.” Ulyanov is joining representatives from China, Germany, France, and Britain — the other parties to the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA — for the talks chaired by the European Union.

“Participants will continue their discussions in view of a possible return of the United States to the JCPOA and on how to ensure the full and effective implementation of the JCPOA,” the EU delegation said before the talks. The U.S. is not at the table because it unilaterally pulled out of the deal in 2018 under then President Donald Trump, who

FELICITATION With immense pride, the GPRN/NSCN Lotha Region congratulates Shri. Oponthung Shitiri for the promotion to the post of Brigadier Naga Army. His elevation to the respectable position is in recognition of his firm determination and dedication with a spirit of patriotism.

All ranks and files of GPRN/NSCN Lotha Region also extend our profound gratitude to the visionary Collective Leadership of the GPRN/NSCN for recognizing the contribution of Shri. Oponthung Shitiri and promoting him to the post of Brigadier Naga Army.

The GPRN/NSCN Lotha Region while congratulating on his accomplishment, expresses high hopes on Shri. Oponthung Shitiri to keep upholding the values and continue to serve with commitment and greater wisdom in the service of the Naga people.

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(SHRI MHONDAMO NGULLIE) LOTHA REGION (RAO) GPRN/NSCN

restored and augmented American sanctions in a campaign of “maximum pressure” to try and force Iran into renegotiating the pact with more concessions. President Joe Biden wants to rejoin the deal, however, and there is a U.S. delegation in Vienna taking part in indirect talks with Iran, with diplomats from the other world powers acting as go-betweens.

The deal promises Iran economic incentives in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program. The reimposition of American sanctions has left the country’s economy reeling, and Tehran has reacted by steadily increasing its violations of the restrictions of the deal, such as increasing the purity of uranium it enriches and its stockpiles, in a thusfar unsuccessful effort to pressure the other countries to provide relief.

FILE- In this March 13, 2021 file photo, a burqa clad Sri Lankan Muslim woman walks in a street of Colombo, Sri Lanka. (AP)

become a law.

Last month, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Ambassador Saad Khattak had criticised the proposal to ban the wearing of burqas in the country, saying such “divisive steps” in the name of security will not only hurt the sentiments of Muslims but also strengthen wider apprehensions about the fundamental human rights of minorities in the island nation.

Meanwhile, Weerasekera in a Facebook post wrote that the Cabinet has approved the

proposal to ban all face coverings, including the burqa.

The Buddhist-majority nation in 2019 had temporarily banned wearing of burqas under emergency regulations following the Easter Sunday attacks in which nine suicide bombers belonging to the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) carried out a series of blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels, killing 270 people, including 11 Indians, and injuring over 500.

OFFICE OF THE

DIMAPUR OKOTSOE SHITIRI EKHUNG DIMAPUR - NAGALAND

FELICITATION The Dimapur Okotsoe Shitiri Ekhung would like to extend heartiest congratulations to SHRI OPONTHUNG SHITIRI, S/o Late Shri Ntsemo Shitiri on being promoted to the rank of Brigadier by the GPRN NSCN vide promotion order dated 21st March 2021.

Further the Union wishes him good success and wisdom to serve the nation faithfully in his future endeavours.

MR. ARITHUNG SHITIRI Chairman, DOSE

MR. ABEL SHITIRI Secretary, DOSE

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Frankfurt, Apr 27 (AP): France and Germany together laid out plans for billions in spending from the European Union’s pandemic recovery fund aimed at fighting climate change and boosting the use of digital technology across the economy.

The finance ministers of the EU’s two biggest economies on Tuesday underlined their joint determination to use the spending to transform Europe’s economy and get the continent growing again as it lags behind the US and China in rebounding from the pandemic recession.

Under the fund’s formula, France should get around 40 billion euros (USD 48 billion) while German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said his country planned about 30 billion euros (USD 36 billion) in spending.

Scholz said that half the money would go to environmentally friendly projects and a quarter to spreading the use of digital technology. He said the fund would build on domestic relief and stimulus measures already passed by the German government.

He called the fund “a groundbreaking step for Europe.”

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire urged the European Commission, the EU’s executive branch, to quickly evaluate the plans so that money can start flowing to members states from the 750 billion euro (USD 906 billion) fund as early as July, noting that the US and China have recovered faster.

He said that since the fund was approved “we have lost too much time” and that “Europe must remain in the race.”

Iran nuclear talks resume in Vienna

Colombo, Apr 27 (PTI): Sri Lankan Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal to ban all forms of face coverings in public places, citing a threat to national security. However, wearing face masks to combat COVID-19 is allowed.

The move came weeks after Minister of Public Security Sarath Weerasekara signed a paper in March, seeking the approval of the Cabinet to ban burqas -outer garments that cover the body and face worn by some Muslim women.

The Cabinet has decided to ban all forms of face coverings in public places, Cabinet spokesperson and information minister Keheliya Rambukwella told reporters here, without specifying burqas. “All forms of face covers are a threat to national security,” he said.

The covering of the full face will automatically include burqa and niqab.

The proposal now must be approved by Parliament to

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France, Germany plan billions in pandemic recovery spending

said here after his phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The two leaders spoke on Monday even as the Biden administration swung into action to provide assistance to

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Washington, Apr 27 (PTI): India was there for the American people in their hour of need and the United States will be there for the country as it meets its worst-ever public health crisis, President Joe Biden

this hour of crisis. “The president pledged America’s steadfast ongoing support for the people of India, who have been impacted by the recent surge in the COVID19 cases,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her daily news conference.

At India’s request, the United States is exploring options to provide oxygen and related supplies. The Department of Defense and USAID are pursuing options to provide oxygen generation systems.

“We may be in a position to reroute shipments plan further countries with lower immediate needs given the urgency of the conditions in India, and we’ll have more details, hopefully, on the possibility soon,” she said. The Department of Defense, she said, is also exploring providing field oxygen generation systems, which the United States has used in its field medical hospitals.

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Joe Biden and Narendra Modi.

India in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The urgent help announced by the White House ranged from oxygen supplies, raw materials for COVID-19 vaccines, critical life-saving drugs to PPEs. “India was there for us, and we will be there for them,” Biden said in a tweet soon after his phone call with Modi.

This was the second telephonic conversation between the two leaders after Biden was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States on January 20.

“Today, I spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and pledged America’s full support to provide emergency assistance and resources in the fight against COVID19,” Biden said.

The call between the two leaders is believed to have lasted for about 45 minutes. During the call, Biden is understood to have offered all help that India needs in

Infotainment

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Ancient DNA reveals new spot in the tree of life for extinct ‘horned’ crocodile A study led by scientists at the American Museum of Natural History has resolved a longstanding controversy about an extinct “horned” crocodile that likely lived among humans in Madagascar.

Based on ancient DNA, the research shows that the horned crocodile was closely related to “true” crocodiles, including the famous Nile crocodile, but on a separate branch of the crocodile family tree.

The study, published on Tuesday in the journal Communications Biology, contradicts the most recent scientific thinking about the horned crocodile’s evolutionary relationships and also suggests that the ancestor of modern crocodiles likely originated in Africa.

“This crocodile was hiding out on the island of Madagascar during the time when people were building the pyramids and was probably still there when pirates were getting stranded on the island,” said lead author Evon Hekkala, an assistant professor at Fordham University and a research associate at the American Museum of Natural History.

“They blinked out just before we had the modern

A skull of the extinct horned crocodile from Madagascar (Voay robustus).

genomic tools available to make sense of the relationships of living things. And yet, they were the key to understanding the story of all the crocodiles alive today.”

The arrival of modern humans in Madagascar between about 9,000 and 2,500 years ago preceded the extinction of many of the island’s large animals, including giant tortoises, elephant birds, dwarf hippos, and several lemur species.

One lesser-known extinction that occurred during this period was that of an endemic “horned” crocodile, Voay robustus.

Early explorers to Mad-

agascar noted that Malagasy peoples consistently referred to two types of crocodiles on the island: a large robust crocodile and a more gracile form with a preference for rivers. This suggests that both types persisted until very recently, but only the gracile form, now recognized as an isolated population of the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) is currently is found on the island.

Despite nearly 150 years of investigation, the position of the horned crocodile in the tree of life has remained controversial.

In the 1870s, it was first described as a new species

within the “true crocodile” group, which includes the Nile, Asian, and American crocodiles. Then, in the early part of the 20th century, it was thought that the specimens simply represented very old Nile crocodiles.

And finally, in 2007, a study based on physical characteristics of the fossil specimens concluded that the horned crocodile was actually not a true crocodile, but in the group that includes dwarf crocodiles.

“Teasing apar t the relationships of modern crocodiles is really difficult because of the physical similarities,” Hekkala said.

“Many people don’t even realize that there are multiple species of crocodiles, and they see them as this animal that’s unchanging through time. But we’ve been trying to get to the bottom of the great diversity that exists among them.”

To fully examine the horned crocodile’s place in the evolutionary tree, Hekkala and her collaborators at the Museum made a number of attempts to sequence DNA from fossil specimens, including two well-preserved skulls that have been at the Museum since the 1930s.

(Sci Tech Daily)

Eddie Murphy on grounding himself

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ollywood actor Eddie Murphy has opened up on why he stopped working for almost eight years after scoring consecutive hits in the 1980s.

“I had it all the way together for years and years and then what happened with movies is that they started offering you so much money to do stuff that I wound up doing everything. So, I ended up doing a bunch of movies like that and then I got to where I stopped having fun and making movies and so I had to take time off,” said Murphy, on “The Drew Barrymore Show”.

He said in 2011 he stopped working for a couple of years.

“In 2011, I stopped working for, like, eight years. I just stopped making movies and that’s when I had some really quiet time and got re-centered. I started thinking that if I wanted to do something it’s because I really want to be doing it.

I got it all back together,” he shared on the show hosted

by Hollywood star Drew Barrymore and airing on Zee Cafe in India.

(IANS)

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

How NASA’s perseverance rover is making oxygen on Mars

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sing an instrument d u b b e d M OX I E (short for Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization Experiment), Nasa’s perseverance rover successfully took carbon dioxide from the Martian atmosphere and converted it into oxygen, NASA announced on Tuesday.

MOXIE ran its first test for roughly an hour, producing just under six grams of oxygen. That’s enough to keep an astronaut going for about 10 minutes, the agency explained.

It won’t keep someone alive for long, but it’s a key step forward in exploring Mars. Not only could that oxygen be used to allow people to breathe, but it would also lighten the load for return missions to Earth, or for trips to other parts of the solar system. Rockets need oxygen to burn fuel during liftoff.

Being able to create it on Mars would mean spacecraft can bring less of it from Earth, significantly decreasing their weight.

Less weight means less overall fuel needed to generate lift.

“Oxygen is the heavier part of rocket fuel”, explained Michael Meyer, Mars Exploration Program lead scientist at NASA earlier this year. If NASA want-

ed to get four astronauts off Mars, the spacecraft would need 27.5 tons of oxygen to do it. Keeping those four breathing for a year would require about one ton.

At the rate MOXIE is going, producing 27.5 tons would take more than 475 years. But future devices could be larger and more efficient than the 38-pound MOXIE. “You can imagine scaling that up and having a bigger plan for humans when we finally send them there to make enough oxygen to get back off the surface and to have oxygen to breath”, said Mitch Schulte, NASA’s Mars 2020 program scientist.

“Mars’ atmosphere is actually pretty thin and it’s primarily composed of carbon dioxide”, he said.

“On Mars we don’t see anything more than a tiny whiff of oxygen and that’s largely from water molecules breaking apart in the

atmosphere”.

MOXIE takes advantage of that relative abundance of carbon dioxide, which is made up of one part carbon, two parts oxygen. An electrolyzer running at temperatures above 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit creates an electric current that separates oxygen from compressed carbon dioxide, leaving carbon monoxide waste.

M OX I E p r o d u c e d about six grams of oxygen per hour during its first test, with two momentary dips while it checked its parts to make sure it was running fine.

One of Perseverance’s plans on Mars is to grab samples of the Martian surface in tubes, which will be picked up by a future spacecraft and brought to Earth for study. It’ll need oxygen for its takeoff from Mars. Moxie could help create that oxygen.

(Mashable India)

Jordan reveals why Stallone Arnold shares hilarious idea Patrick Dempsey talks of being won’t be back for ‘Creed III for beefing up ‘boring’ Oscars back on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ n Monday, legendary action star and former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and began the interview by talking about how boring the Oscars were the previous night. In fact, he said he only made it about an hour into the show which ran a little over three hours long.

“The reason I only watched one-third is because it was so boring,” Schwarzenegger said. “I basically just turned it off.

I couldn’t watch it anymore because there was so much talent there on the stage but it was so boring. How could they with all this talent make it so boring?”

Sunday’s telecast of Academy Awards was the least-watched ceremony in the show’s history. COVID19 has had an obvious impact on both films and award shows over the past year, but that was only part of the problem.

The show was also panned on social media for being boring. Partly because

Your job is to make people happy: Boman Irani-Arshad Warsi on ‘LOL: Hasse Toh Phasse’

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hey have been friends from before they were stars and now Boman Irani and Arshad Warsi have teamed up again for “LOL: Hasse Toh Phasse”, a show that they hope will bring some cheer to people during the pandemic.

The actors, who have worked together in films such as the “Munnabhai” series, “Jolly LLB”, “Legend of Michael Misra” and “Hum Tum Aur Ghost”, will be seen as co-hosts in Amazon Prime Video’s show. The show premiere on the platform on April 30.

They will be playing referees and keeping an eye on ten of India’s best comedians viz Sunil Grover, Gaurav Gera, Suresh Menon, Cyrus Broacha, Kusha Kapila, Mallika Dua, Aditi Mittal, Aadar Malik, Ankita Srivastava, and Aakash Gupta who are doing their best to be the “last one laughing” in this comedy battleground.

The show, Irani said, gave him a chance to meet a friend after a long time. “ H o n e s t l y, I w a s K Y M C

thrilled when they said Arshad because eight months after sitting at home, I needed to see someone who, I know, genuinely makes me laugh.

“He cracks me up every time he says something, and he’s an original. I needed that for therapy and then I kept forgetting that it was not just Arshad who would be there it was these 10 wonderful people who cracked us up through the entire shooting schedule,” Irani, who sat down for an interview with Warsi, said.

Warsi joked that the streamer hired Irani to “fill the frame” as “I’m extremely talented”.

The actor then joked

that Irani initially wanted Riteish Deshmukh but “’Riteish said, ‘I don’t want Boman!’”

Asked whether it was challenging to do comedy at a time when there was so much tragedy due to the coronavirus pandemic, Warsi said as actors, it was their job to give people something that they can “watch, laugh, enjoy and have a good reason to stay home”.

“Being in this profession, one of the first things one learns is to ignore everything that is around you and focus on the job that you’ve been given. And that is very important because that’s what we do.

“...When we were in a room, the only conversation one could have at that time was about the situation that the whole country was in, the world was in. But the moment the cameras were on, we had to leave all that behind and get on with the show. And make it something that everybody wants to watch, laugh, enjoy, and has a good reason to stay home.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Irani said it was not that they were “insensitive to what’s happening around” but the show’s format gave them a chance to contribute to people’s lives in their own way.

“If someone can laugh even a little bit at what you have to say, then you are blessed... That’s what my mother keeps saying, ‘your job is not to prove to the world that you are a good actor, your job is to make people happy.’ That’s why these guys are priceless,” the actor said, referring to the stand-up comedians on the show.

(PTI)

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the show did away with comedic hosts, film clips, examples of the artists’ work and musical numbers.

Also, this year winners were allowed to make their acceptance speeches as long and awkward as they liked.

While Schwarzenegger was not able to stomach the full ceremony, he did have a suggestion on how to improve it for next year.

He said, “I think the next time maybe they should take it to Muscle Beach and have the Oscars on Muscle Beach.” That might pump things up.

ctor Patrick Dempsey has returned to “Grey’s Anatomy” in the current season of the series. Dempsey is popular as Dr Derek Shepherd in the show.

The actor reunites with the love of his life, Dr. Meredith Grey, essayed by Ellen Pompeo. Meredith dreams of her wedding with Derek on the beach.

“I thought it was a beautiful way to close it.

The intention was to really give people some hope because they are such an iconic couple. We’ve lost so many people this year, the thought that we’d have angels hovering around us taking care of us is a good message to send out in such a bleak world that we’re living in. So, for all of us, it was a beautiful ending to this story. I’m so grateful that I did it and happy that the fans really loved it,” Dempsey said, according to femalefirst.co.uk.

Through the sequence, they also stressed upon the importance of wearing a

HAPPY 87 TH BIRTHDAY On this Special Day, we Thank Almighty God for bringing you this far and pray that God always shine generous amount of love and kindness on you, jus like the way you have shown to us.

Wish you and pray that may God grant you good health and strength and have the most amazing time of your life...

Stay Blessed.

Loving Wife, Children, Grandchildren, In-laws & Your Loved ones

mask in today’s times.

“We all cried at the beginning and we hugged each other. It was really for us to get the message

out there to wear a mask, take care of yourself. Ellen and I were like, ‘What can we do together to make some impact here?’ That was in the spring around this time last year. It just was a positive action that reverberates into more positive action,” he said in an interview with Variety. (IANS)

OFFICE OF THE

CHEN AREA STUDENTS' UNION (CASU) MON : NAGALAND

FELICITATION

The CHEN AREA STUDENTS' UNION (CASU) would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to MR. Y. CHINGONG, son of Mr. Yayem and Mrs. Ngangloa Konyak who has been crowned as 1st RUNNERS UP at NAGALAND MEGA MODEL HUNT 2021.

The Chen Area Students' Union extends its appreciation for bringing such laurels to our Area and to Konyak community in general. We wish him the best and many more success in his future endeavors.

T.N. Mana Walim W. Wansha President, Publicity & Information Secretary CASU CASU

FELICITATION

OFFICE OF THE CHUNGTIA BAPTIST CHURCH

NZIO TUNGOE

OFFICE OF THE LOTHA HOHO KARBI-ANGLONG, ASSAM Hq. Boro Lengri

FELICITATION

The Lotha Hoho Karbi-Anglong Assam conveys its heartfelt congratulations to Shri. MHONTSEN HUMTSOE for his tremendous dedication and contribution towards the Society by serving as the GB of Bor-Lengri and on his completion of 25 Years as GB starting from 12-04-1996 to till date.

The Hoho has complete faith and confidence in his leadership to safeguard and uplift the future endeavors pertaining to the Hoho.

The Lotha Hoho further extends him good health and wisdom in his Service.

(RHONTHUNGO EZUNG) GENERAL SECY. LOTHA HOHO K/A

(MHAO ODYUO) CHAIRMAN LOTHA HOHO K/A

With profound pride, the Chungtia Baptist Church extends its heartiest congratulations to Rev. Dr. L Kari Longchar on being conferred the Honorary Doctor of Divinity by the Senate of Serampore College.

He has contributed profoundly to the total prohibition of Liquor in the state of Nagaland and furthermore, has been committed to the promotion of peace and justice in the Naga society. He has served as the Executive Secretary of ABAM (Ao Baptist Church Association), Director of Peace Affairs of NBCC, Vice President of Naga Reconciliation Commission, and the Chairman of Peace and Justice Committee of CBCNEI and today he continues to serve in Peace Channel Governing Board.

As a man who acts in both boldness and gentleness, he brought new initiatives and has influenced and shaped churches and leaders alike.

The Chungtia Baptist Church further wishes the best and that the Lord continue to bless and use you.

Rev. M. Laka Tzudir I. Meren Longchar Pastor Secy cum Cashier Chungtia Baptist Church Chungtia Baptist Church

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tranged son, Rocky Jr. (Milo Ventimiglia), in the closing moments of Creed II. The veteran actor has previously teased two possible future projects starring his alter ego. In a 2019 interview with Variety, Stallone discussed a solo sequel that would find Balboa training a young street fighter who is in the U.S. illegally. And in a recent Instagram post, he shared handwritten pages for a Rocky prequel series that would follow Balboa’s early years on the mean streets of Philadelphia.

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Adonis as he moves forward,” he notes, suggesting that Balboa will still be represented onscreen. “So as far as page space, or whether or not Rocky comes back for this one, this is the Creed franchise moving forward.”

Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa and Michael B. Jordan as Adonis Creed in 2018’s ‘Creed II.’ It’s recently been revealed that Stallone will not return for ‘Creed III,’ which Jordan is directing. (Photo: Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures)

It’s worth noting that Stallone has his own plans for Ro c k y, w h o we last saw reuniting with his es-

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of his pupil’s life... even if they’re not sharing the same frame.

“There’s going to be so many Rocky-isms that are forever going to stay w i t h

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he recent news that Sylvester Stallone’s lovable punching bag, Rocky Balboa, won’t be part of Creed III hit fans like a Clubber Lang-style punch in the gut. But Creed sta r M ic ha e l B. Jordan — who graduates to the director’s chair with the third installment in the spin-off series following young Adonis Creed — has a good reason for why the Italian Stallion isn’t returning for another round. “I feel like this is the Creed franchise,” the actor tells Yahoo Entertainment while discussing his new film, Without Remorse, which premieres April 30 on Prime Video. “We really want fans to be interested in Adonis and what that story has to say.” (Watch our video interview above.)

At the same time, Jordan makes it clear that Rocky will always be a part

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sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

AFC: FC Goa play out 1-1 draw with Al Rayyan Italy to ban Serie A clubs that

Goa, Apr 27 (PTI/ ians): FC Goa conceded an 89th minute goal to squander the chance to become the first Indian club to win a match in the prestigious AFC Champions League (ACL) as they played out a 1-1 draw with Al Rayyan of Qatar in Margao on Monday.

Jorge Ortiz gave FC Goa the lead in the third minute of the Group E match but Ali Ferydoon equalised with just a minute left in the regulation time. Al Rayyan had the majority of possession in the first half but it was an even contest in the second session.

The Indian Super League side went out of reckoning for a knock-out berth after Al Wahda of the UAE beat last season runners-up Persepolis FC 1-0 in another Group E match played earlier in the day. Persepolis are still on the top group standings with 12 points while Al Wahda are second with 10 points. FC Goa are third with three points and Al Rayyan at the bottom with two points.

All the four teams have one match remaining

FC Goa’s Jorge Ortiz Mendoza in action against Al Rayyan during AFC Champions League in Margao on Tuesday night.

in the double round-robin league. The top team in each of the five groups and three best runners-up sides advance to the Round of 16 knock-outs.

FC Goa had played out a 0-0 draw with Al Rayyan in their first leg match before holding Al Wahda to another goalless draw. The Goan side then lost to Persepolis FC 1-2 and 0-4 in the double header. FC Goa’s last match against Al Wahda on Thursday will thus be an inconsequential one.

Terrible moment to concede last-minute goal: FC Goa’s Ferrando FC Goa head coach Juan Ferrando conceded it was a terrible moment for his team to concede the equaliser in the last moments of the game against Qatari club Al Rayyan in the AFC Champions League Group Stage match.

The Spanish tactician, though, promised a better display in their last outing against UAE club Al Wahda

on Thursday after the 1-1 draw against Al Rayyan on Monday. The Indian Super League (ISL) club came agonisingly close to becoming the first Indian side to win an AFC Champions League encounter when they took the lead in the third minute, only to concede the equaliser in the 89th minute.

“It’s difficult when you lose in the last minute.

But, the truth is that we are playing against very good teams. It is a pleasure to play against (Iran’s) Persepolis FC, (UAE’s) Al Wahda and

(Qatar’s) Al Rayyan,” the Spanish tactician said.

“We needed to be better during the transition prior to conceding. That’s a big difference between the other teams playing here and us. It was a terrible moment for my players to concede at the last moment,” Ferrando said.

The Spaniard said his team wanted to bring cheers to the people In the country, who were “in a very difficult situation at this moment”.

“We were thinking that if we win it will be a good moment for the Indian people. (The players) were talking about playing for India because I know about the difficult moments. But, we conceded at the last moment. This is football.”

FC Goa are currently on three points from five matches. On playing the last couple of matches with a half-fit team, Ferrando said, “It is necessary to talk with the players because they have done a great job. Of course, we need to improve.

We have our next match against Al Wahda. There are some injuries, and it is difficult to prepare. The medical staff has been working tirelessly.”

join breakaway leagues

Rome, Apr 27 (AP): The Italian soccer federation added an “anti-Super League” clause to its regulations on Monday, making it easier to expel any club that attempts to break away in the future. The rule, which would ban any team participating in a privately run competition from playing in domestic leagues, was approved unanimously by the FIGC council, which includes Inter Milan CEO Giuseppe Marotta.

Serie A leader Inter, Juventus and AC Milan were the Italian teams that were among the clubs leading the charge for the ill-fated Super League. “Those who feel they have to participate in competitions not authorized by the FIGC, FIFA or UEFA lose their affiliation,” FIGC president Gabriele Gravina said. The controversial breakaway of Europe’s elite soccer teams imploded last week — shortly after it was announced — when all six English clubs backed away from the proposal, following a backlash by fans and authorities, and they were swiftly joined by Inter and

Serie A is the top-ranked domestic football competition in Italy. (Reuters)

Atlético Madrid.

Juventus and Milan admitted the project was going nowhere immediately, while leaving open the possibility of joining a Super League at a later date.

“At the moment, we don’t have any news on who has remained and who has left the Super League,” Gravina added.

“This rule applies to national licences. It’s clear that if by June 21… someone should want to participate in competitions of a private nature, they will not take part in our league.”

Gravina, who said last week the clubs would not be punished for their involvement in the plan, again stressed

his belief that the failed Super League project should serve as a wake-up call that change is needed.

The federation is working on reforms, which it acknowledged need to be introduced soon. Gravina said these will likely include playoffs for relegation and promotion, as well as a reduction in the number of teams in Serie A. “Those who interpreted the Super League as an act of weakness from several clubs who are experiencing a moment of difficulty economically, or an insurrection in the soccer system are mistaken,” Gravina said. “It’s a delicate matter that needs to be further explored.”

Euro 2020: Teams permitted 26-player squads Golfer Nishtha bags fourth Bayern appoints Nagelsmann as head coach Lo n d o n, A p r 2 7 (Agencies): Teams will be allowed to select a 26player squad instead of the usual 23 at this summer’s European Championship.

The change has been implemented to lessen the load on players after a club season compressed because of the coronavirus pandemic. It will also help managers adapt if outbreaks occur during the tournament.

The decision, taken by Uefa’s national teams committee on Monday, will be subject to ratification but is not expected to meet any opposition.

career title in Arizona

The Euro 2020 final will take place at Wembley on July 11.

Uefa’s ruling executive committee will be responsible for ratifying the decision later this week. A rule allowing each team to make up to five substitutes per game has

already been confirmed.

The tournament, which had been scheduled to take place last summer, begins on June 11. The deadline for submitting squads is 1 June.

Arizona (US), Apr 27 (IANS): Young Indian golfer Nishtha Madan came up with a great display of putting to win her fourth career title on the Cactus Tour -- a developmental tour in Arizona -- by four strokes.

The 23-year-old Gurugram resident, a Sacremento State University graduate who turned pro in 2020, had a superb first round of 63 -- her personal best -- on Friday, and followed it up with identical 71s on the next two days to finish 11-under par.

She beat Cheyenne Woods of the US by four strokes.

Nishtha, whose goal is to

play on the LPGA Tour, had to face a lot of uncertainty last year after the Q-School was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. She was then forced to play the Cactus Tour, which helped her gain confidence. “There was no Q-School and before I committed to playing golf full time I wanted to feel it out and see if I was 100 per cent sure about pursuing it.

Since there was nothing else to play, I decided to move to Arizona to compete in the Cactus Tour and develop my game and it worked out as I had intended for it,” Nishtha told indiagolfdigest.com.

Munich, Apr 27 (Reuters): Bayern Munich on Tuesday signed RB Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann to take over from Hansi Flick next season on a fiveyear contract, bringing to Munich one of Europe’s most sought after young managers.

The 33-year-old took the reins at second-placed RB Leipzig in 2019 and led the side to the Champions League semifinals last year.

Flick is leaving Bayern at the end of the season of his own free will despite having a contract until 2023.

Nagelsmann’s contract

Julian Nagelsmann

at Leipzig ran to 2023 and Bayern reportedly agreed to a payment that could exceed 20 million euros ($24.13 million) for his release, making his one of the most expensive club coach signings in Europe.

Leipzig’s head of soc-

cer Oliver Mintzlaff said the amount paid by Bayern to sign him had been “extremely high”. “Yesterday the two clubs finalised details and I am happy it happened,” Nagelsmann told an online news conference.

“In the coming weeks I will not be talking about it any more. I am still a Leipzig employee and we still have five games. We want to finish second in the league and win the German Cup,” he added. Nagelsmann refused to comment on the transfer fee saying it was not him who had put it in the contract.

Not losing coordination a big plus: Mandeep Australian Olympians to be given COVID-19 vaccine priority how we all found our coordination quickly and gelled very well as a team when we played each of our matches this year (in Europe and Argentina),” said the 26-yearold Mandeep who scored a goal in India’s 3-0 win over Argentina in the second FIH Pro League match recently.

India defeated hosts Argentina in both the Pro League matches and also won two of the four practice games in Buenos Aires.

‘Ultra-rare’ James trading card sold for $5.2m

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support staff will include about 2,000 people, including an estimated 450-480 Olympic athletes.

Richard Colbeck, the government minister for senior Australians and aged care, said the decision would not come at the cost of at-risk Australians.

“While vulnerable Australians remain an absolute priority as the vaccine rollout continues, National Cabinet understands the pressure our high-perfor-

OFFICE OF THE

PLANNING COMMITTEE WENKANGSHU SHEPJUM P.O- MON – 798621, NAGALAND

APPRECIATION

K-859

The Wenkangshu Shepjum was held from 15th to 16th April 2021 at Chenwetnyu Village and the occasion was graced by S.Howing Konyak, President, Konyak Union as the special guest.

Through this column, the Planning Committee of Wenkangshu Shepjum would like to acknowledge and express our heartfelt gratitude to the Ahng, Village Council, Baptish Church, Student Union and the public of Chenwetnyu Village in general for the invaluable service, support and cooperation rendered in making the Wenkangshu Shepjum a success. It is our ardent prayer that the Lord Almighty shall bless the aforementioned individuals, organization and the village abundantly.

TS PANGLEM Chairman, Planning Committee

S TONCHING Secretary, Planning Committee

FELICITATION OFFICE OF THE CHUNGTIA LAISHIR TELONGJEM

ferent franchises, having helped Miami Heat, the Cavaliers and the Lakers all win the Finals.

The 17-time All-Star is the highest scorer in NBA

play-offs history and the third-highest scorer of alltime in the regular season, behind Kareem AbdulJabbar and Karl Malone.

Earlier this month,

a signed rookie card for seven-time Super Bowl winner Tom Brady sold for $2.25m. A rare Kobe Bryant rookie card went for $1.795m in March.

The Chungtia Laishir Telongjem (Theological Fellowship of Chungtia) expresses the heartiest congratulations and celebration to its esteemed member and the Guiding Star title holder, Rev. Dr. L Kari Longchar on his achievement as the recipient of the Honorary Doctor of Divinity from the Senate of Serampore College (University) on the 10th of April 2021.

Man with a vision and mission, he was tough on issues and tender with people. Rev. Dr. L Kari Longchar is best known for his deeds and commitment as a negotiator of peace and reconciliation for the Naga people and as a preacher against social evils. His integrity, dynamic leadership and uncompromising adherence to Christian values set an utmost standard for Church ministers and leaders. He has set a true example of Servant of Christ by engaging himself actively in pursuit of service for the Naga Community and beyond.

The Chungtia Laishir Telongjem further wishes the best and God’s blessings in his future endeavors.

I. Meren Longchar Alemtemjen Kichu President Secretary Chungtia Laishir Telongjem Chungtia Laishir Telongjem

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L o n d o n, A p r 2 7 (Agencies): An “ultrarare” LeBron James trading card has been bought for $5.2m (£3.75m), making it the most expensive basketball card ever sold.

The 2003 rookie card is from James’ debut season for Cleveland Cavaliers.

“With so few becoming available and demand increasing by the day, this card is becoming the crown jewel of all sports card investing,” said PWCC, a trading card marketplace.

The sale price has equalled the record for any sports trading card.

The same amount was paid in January for a 1952 rookie card for baseball great Mickey Mantle.

“At the heart of every collector in 2003 was the hope of pulling the ultrarare LeBron James Rookie Patch Auto Parallel numbered to 23 copies,” added PWCC. The buyer’s identity was not made public.

James, who is 36 and now playing for the LA Lakers, is widely considered among the greatest ever to play the game.

He is a four-time NBA champion with three dif-

Sydney, Apr 27 (AP): Australian athletes and support staff preparing for the Tokyo Olympics will be given priority for vaccines.

The Australian government on Tuesday said members of the Olympic team would be vaccinated under a priority group which includes healthcare workers, Indigenous people aged over 55 and people older than 70.

T h e va c c i n a t i o n program for athletes and

mance athletes have been facing as the Tokyo Games draw closer,” Colbeck said in a statement.

Some 1,969,337 vaccine doses have been administered in Australia, 205,203 of which were given in aged and disability care facilities.

Members of the Olympic contingent aged over 50 will receive the

AstraZeneca vaccine, while those under 50 will be given the Pfizer vaccine.

Australian Olympic Committee chief executive Matt Carroll said the team would be vaccinated outside of the public health program “to ensure the vaccination of our athletes does not place any additional load on the public system.”

INFORMATION Ongpangkong Union, Diphupar has proposed to celebrate Moatsü Festival on Dated : 01/05/2021, but due to COVID-19 pandemic situation the program is cancelled.

OST Diphupar DP-2159

REJOINDER Sir, Reacting to the press release (Nagaland Post) dated 27/04/2021 by 1) L. Zubenthung Tsanglao, 2) Y. Renponthung Tsanglao (Advocate), 3) N. Renphamo Tsanglao, 4) R. Mongthungo Tsanglao.

We the undersigned G.B’s of Elumyo Village do hereby clarify that there is no GPRN/NSCN (IM) Under CAO Lotha Region’s interference in the ensuing Council Chairman Election so far. Such malicious intentions by some vested individuals to tarnish the image and peaceful co-existence of the Village shall be condemned by one and all and concerned authority must initiate stern action against such misleading individuals.

1) Tsemomo Tsanglao, GB

2) Nzinimo Tsanglao, GB

3) Phyomongo Tsanglao, GB 4) Tsenthungo Ovung, GB WC-86

Mandeep Singh

Bengaluru, Apr 27 (IANS): Indian hockey team forward Mandeep Singh on Tuesday said that it was very easy to “lose coordination” after a long break, but the way the team gelled against Olympic champions Argentina recently was a big confidence booster ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.

“When a team plays matches after a long break, it can lose its coordination.

However, it was great to see

5) Limomo Tsanglao, GB

6) Y. Thungbemo Tsanglao, GB K Y M C

12

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 2021

Indian women’s 4x400m relay IPL: RCB survive scare; beat DC by 1 run team pulls out of World Relays

Ahmedabad, Apr 27 (IANS): Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) survived an onslaught from Delhi Capitals (DC) batsman Shimron Hetmyer (53 not out off 25 balls) as they won Tuesday’s Indian Premier League (IPL) match by one run.

This was RCB’s fifth win in six matches and put them back on top of the points table after a huge loss to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their previous match had displaced them from the top spot.

DC, who are third after their second loss in six games, had their backs to the wall at 92 for four in 12.4 overs. However, Hetmyer turned it on and added 78 runs in 44 balls with skipper Rishabh Pant (58 not out off 48 balls) to take the team within striking distance of victory.

Needing 46 from 18 balls, Hetmyer scored 20 out of 21 runs in the 17th over bowled by Kyle Jamieson (who bowled the 18th) to bring the equation down to 25 off two overs.

Harshal Patel con-

Kyle Jamieson of Royal Challengers Bangalore celebrates the wicket of Shikhar Dhawan of Delhi Capitals, Tuesday. (PTI)

ceded 11 and Mohammed Siraj conceded 12 to win the game for RCB. Siraj began the last over well, bowling a couple of yorkers to Pant.

However, he conceded two boundaries on the last two balls. That left DC still one

run short.

Earlier, India pace bowler Ishant Sharma took one for 26 in his first match of the season for DC but it was AB de Villiers (75 not out) who drove RCB to 171/5.

De Villiers’s unbeaten

Federer playing French Open with eye on Wimbledon: McEnroe Paris, Apr 27 (Reuters): Roger Federer’s decision to make his longawaited Grand Slam return on his least favourite surface at next month’s French Open is part of a grand plan to peak in time for his beloved Wimbledon, according to ESPN commentator Patrick McEnroe.

Federer, who due to injury or schedule preference has not competed on the clay courts at Roland Garros in four of the last five years, returned to competition last month after sitting out more than a year following two knee operations.

“He wouldn’t be showing up to play if he didn’t think he could play well,” former player McEnroe told Reuters in a telephone inter view. “But I don’t think he is realistically going there thinking he could win the tournament.”

According to McEnroe, Federer just wants to get more matches under his belt and is more focused on both the grasscourt and hardcourt events ahead, particularly Wimbledon, where he has won a record eight times, and the U.S. Open.

M c E n r o e, w h o s e “Holding Court” podcast will begin a second season on Tuesday, said Federer, 39, may make a run in

75 came off 42 deliveries and comprised three fours and five sixes as he took 23 runs (including one wide) in the last over of the match bowled by Marcus Stoinis.

DC had done well to pick two early wickets, removing both Devdutt

Nadal rises to number 2 in ATP rankings

Paris but a potential clash terfinal loss at the Qatar Paris, Apr 27 (AFP): with reigning champion Open, will kickstart his Rafael Nadal’s hard-fought Rafa Nadal or world num- claycourt campaign at the win in Barcelona saw the ber one Novak Djokovic G e n eva O p e n i n Spaniard replacing Daniil could prove too much three weeks before Medvedev as world No. 2 to handle. going into the behind Novak Djokovic in “Even when French Open for the ATP rankings. The 34Roger was at his his first Grand year-old Mallorcan, who highest level he was Slam event since won on Catalan clay for the 12th time in his career, is 110 the second best claythe 2020 Austrapoints ahead of Medvedev. court player in the lian Open.

It was Nadal’s 61st title world, which is sayM c E n r o e on clay -- the next most sucing something. conceded he was cessful player on the surface I don’t among those who is the Argentinian Guillermo did not expect Vilas who won 49 -- and he Federer to will again start as favourite pull off a for the French Open which late-career begins at Roland Garros on revival dur- May 30. Stefanos Tsitsipas, ing which beaten in the final in Barceh e a d d e d lona by Nadal after having a three Grand match point, remains in fifth, Slam crowns behind the Dominic Thiem. ove r a 1 2 - Pablo Carreno is up to 12th month span at the expense of David Gofthat started fin while 19-year-old Jannik at the 2017 Sinner has climbed to 18th.

Australian Open and has learned to never count him out.

“He’s still a threat M o s c ow, A p r 2 7 to win a big tourna- (Agencies): Russia’s ment,” said McEnroe, highest-ranked player Ian the younger brother of Nepomniachtchi will be seven-times Grand Slam Magnus Carlsen’s challengchampion John. er in the upcoming World “I never underesti- Championship match, mate greatness and he’s scheduled to take place think great, one of the greatest if at the end of this year in we can say that right now, not the greatest of all time. Dubai. Nepomniachtchi especially coming off such “He just loves the was sharing first place with a long layoff,” said McEn- game. He loves to play. I Maxime Vachier-Lagrave roe. don’t think he plays with when the sanitary crisis “But his expectations the sole intention of ‘I’m prompted FIDE to postare certainly to go there going to play to try and pone the Candidates after and play well and make a win every tournament’ and round 7. In the second half, little bit of a run.”

I think that’s part of his the Russian made the most Federer, whose first popularity and part of his of his chances while keepevent back ended in a quar- sustainability.” ing a cool head, collecting

Padikkal (17) and skipper Virat Kohli (12) inside the powerplay.

While Padikkal was bowled by Sharma, Kohli was bowled by Avesh.

Glenn Maxwell (25) fell soon after, leaving RCB at 60 for three.

However, de Villiers shared a 54-run partnership with No. 3 Rajat Patidar (31 off 22 balls) and took the charge to the opposition in the end overs.

RCB were looking like they would struggle to get past 160 at 124/4 in 16 overs. But the last four overs produced 47 runs.

Brief scores: Royal Challengers Bangalore 171/5 in 20 overs (AB de Villiers 75 not out, R Patidar 31, G Maxwell 25; A Khan 1/24, I Sharma 1/26, A Mishra 1/27) vs Delhi Capitals 170/4 in 20 overs (R Pant 58 not out, S Hetmyer 53 not out; H Patel 2/37, K Jamieson 1/32, M Siraj 1/44)

WEDNESDAY’S MATCH Chennai Super Kings Vs Sunrisers Hyderabad: 7:30 pm

The Indian women 4x400m relay team. (AP/File)

New Delhi, Apr 27 (IANS): In a major setback to India’s Olympic Games preparation, the national women’s 4x400m relay team has pulled out of next month’s World Relays in Poland, said a source in the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) on Tuesday.

“The team is unfit.

The fastest runner in the squad, Anjali Devi, is yet to recover from an injury she had sustained in March,” the source told IANS, ex-

Ne w Del h i / M el bourne, Apr 27 (PTI): The BCCI stepped in to assuage apprehensions of foreign cricketers, especially Australians, at the IPL as a second wave of COVID-19 infections battered India, prompting the government Down Under to suspend air travel with the country besides asking players to make their “own arrangements” for return.

The fear of being locked out of their own nation drove the likes of Andrew Tye to take an early flight back to Australia along with Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa

other key runner of the women’s 400m relay team, has also pulled out of the World Relays.

This month, the AFI had shortlisted six athletes for the 4x400m relay team. They were: MR Poovamma, Suhba Venkatesh, Kiran, Anjali Devi, R Revathi, VK Vismaya and Jisna Mathew.

The AFI will, however, send men’s 4x400m and women’s 4x100m relay squads to Poland.

Wimbledon to become 14-day tournament from 2022 London, Apr 27 (REUTERS): The Wimbledon Championships will become a 14-day tournament from 2022, with matches set to be played on Middle Sunday, traditionally a day off at the grasscourt Grand Slam, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said on Tuesday. The first Sunday of Wimbledon is normally a rest day, on which tournament organisers work to get the courts back into top shape for the latter rounds, resulting in a packed “Manic Monday” schedule.

“From 2022, to coincide with the centenary of centre court, Middle Sunday will become a permanent part of the tournament schedule, turning the Championships into a 14day event,” AELTC chairman Ian Hewitt said.

“Thanks to improved grass court technology and maintenance over the past

five years... we are comfortable that we are able to look after the courts, most particularly centre court, without a full day of rest.”

Middle Sunday is also known as People’s Sunday because, on some occasions in the past, tickets have been made available on general sale on that day when rain delays have resulted in matches being postponed.

In another massive change, Wimbledon village bars and restaurants, which host the world’s best players once a year, will be out-ofpocket as organisers have, in a break with long-held tradition, banned players from renting private houses near the grounds. “The minimised risk environment we created for the players is a requirement from the gov-

ernment to bring athletes without them going into quarantine upon entry into the UK,” AELTC chief executive Sally Bolton said.

“Players enjoy private housing and we hope to bring it back next year but it’s just not possible this year.” The rule applies even to British players such as Andy Murray, who lives near the grounds, and instead will have to stay on site this year. The government has allowed 25per cent capacity at sports arenas and AELTC hope that will be increased closer to the Championships, before ticket sales and distribution are finalised.

Ticket prices will be the same as last year when the tournament was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and organisers said they would wait until June before deciding on the prize pot.

Nepomniachtchi to challenge Carlsen for World Championship title two wins and four draws to secure tournament victory with a round to spare.

In the penultimate round, only two games were relevant in the fight to win the event. Anish Giri, who was a half point behind Nepo, faced Alexander Grischuk with black, while the leader had White against MVL, who in fact still had a tiny chance of winning the event. By the time VachierLagrave had definitely no winning chances, Grischuk had a clearly superior position against Giri. It did not take long before the two

Ian Nepomniachtchi

results were confirmed — Nepo had drawn and Giri had lost, which meant the Russian had become the next World Championship challenger. In the current standings, Nepomniachtchi is a full point ahead of Giri,

COVID cloud on IPL: BCCI assures safe return to foreign players ‘Aussies in IPL will have to get back on their own’

plaining the reason for skipping the World Relays.

One of the athletes said: “Three main runners are unfit. And there is no substitute.”

The World Relays, scheduled to be held on May 1 and 2 in Chorzow, is a qualifying competition for Tokyo Olympics as well as 2022 World Athletics Championships in Oregon, USA. As if to further compound the national team’s misery, Jisna Mathew, an-

on Monday.

A day later, Australia announced that it was suspending air travel to and from India till May 15 amid the swirling COVID19 cases. The BCCI wrote to the foreign players telling them that their safe return home will be its responsibility once the tournament ends on May 30.

“We understand that many of you are apprehensive about how you will get back home once the tournament concludes... We want to apprise you that you have nothing to worry about,” BCCI COO Hemang Amin said in a letter addressed to the players.

“The BCCI will do everything to ensure that you reach your respective destinations seamlessely.

The BCCI is monitoring the situation very closely

BCCI headquarters in Mumbai(MINT_PRINT)

and is working with the government authorities to make arrangements to get you home once the tournament concludes.

“Be rest assured that the tournament is not over for BCCI till each one of you has reached your home, safe and sound,” he added.

Mumbai Indians’ Australian batsman Chris Lynn hoped that Cricket

Australia would arrange a chartered flight for those who have stayed back after CA checked on their travel plans.

“I texted back that as Cricket Australia make 10 per cent of every IPL contract was there a chance we could spend that money this year on a charter flight once the tournament is over?” Lynn told News Corp media.

Au s t r a l i a n P r i m e Minister Scott Morrison ruled out any government assistance and said that those in the IPL will have to make their own arrangements for return.

“They have travelled there privately. This wasn’t part of an Australian tour.

They’re under their own resources and they’ll be using those resources too, I’m sure, to see them return to Australia in accordance with their own arrangements,” Morrison was quoted as saying by ‘The Guardian’.

The COVID-19 carnage across India has shaken the country to its core with over 3 lakh fresh daily cases and more than 2,000 daily deaths. Add to this, a crumbling health infrastructure that is also battling a shortage of ox-

ygen and some crucial medicines.

The crisis outside the IPL’s bio-bubble has led to some talk about whether it is appropriate for the league to go on and whether its organisers and participating players should be doing more to express empathy.

On Monday, Kolkata Knight Riders’ Rs 15 crore buy, Australian pacer Pat Cummins, donated USD 50,000 to the Indian government, hoping that it would inspire more to contribute.

Amin lauded the players for carrying on and giving some joy amid the gloom.

“When you all walk out onto the field, you are bringing hope to millions of people who have tuned in,” he said.

but due to the first tiebreak criterion (direct encounter; Nepo beat Giri in round 1), even if Giri wins and Nepo loses on Tuesday, the Russian star would win the event. The fact that such an important tournament is often decided by mathematical tiebreaks has been negatively criticized by members of the chess community. Living legend Garry Kasparov voiced his concern: *FIDE couldn’t make one more day available for a tiebreak? For God’s sake, they have a World Cham-

pionship match ending in a tiebreak — Magnus Carlsen played two tiebreaks for the title, and they couldn’t afford to spend one day for a tiebreak? [...] It’s not any criticism on Nepo, who wins the tournament by the rules, but it’s about the integrity of the competition.* As noted by Kasparov — and also by Giri himself — this whole discussion about tiebreaks should not take away from the fact that Nepo played “two great halves” (Giri) and is a completely deserving challenger for the world title.

Shooter Bindra targets BCCI, IPL in times of Covid

New Delhi, Apr 27 (IANS): India’s only individual Olympic gold medallist, Abhinav Bindra, on Monday questioned the continuation of Indian Premier League (IPL) when the Covid-19 pandemic has virtually crippled India, saying Indian cricketers and officials “can’t just live in their own bubble, and be totally deaf or blind to whatever is going on outside”.

Bindra, who won the 10-metre air rifle gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, also wondered why the Indian cricket board, worth Rs 14,489.80 crore, the richest in the world, hasn’t contributed so far to the Covid cause, like vaccination during the current wave. “Cricketers and officials can’t just live in their own bubble, and be totally deaf or blind to whatever is going outside,” he wrote in

a hard-hitting piece in the Indian Express newspaper.

“I can only imagine that while you’re having these IPL games, outside the stadium you have ambulances going to hospitals.

I don’t know how the coverage on TV is but I would really appreciate if it’s a little bit muted in nature. I think celebration and everything around it should be at a minimum because you have to show a little bit of respect to society,” wrote the 38-year-old ace shooter. The Zirakpur-based Bindra, who is a member of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, came down heavily on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), worth Rs 14,489.80 crore as per its latest 2018-19 balance sheet, available with IANS, for not rising to the occasion and being counted.

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