April 8, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 122

DIMAPUR, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 Pages 12 ` 4.00

Bribery dogs Qatar FIFA 2022

Follow us on @Nagaland_Post

sports, Page 8

Japan declares emergency for COVID-19

nagalandpostofficial nagalandpostofficial

international, Page 6

Centre to consider views on lockdown BSL-3 lab at NHAK, Kohima & BSL-2 at CIHSR, Dimapur

State govt fast-tracking to set up labs

briefing on COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who announced the lockdown on March 24, on Monday said that in the fight against the highly contagious virus, people must be prepared for the long haul. At a cabinet meeting, he had urged ministers to come up with a “graded plan”, which was seen by many to indicate a gradual rollback. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said after the meeting that a decision would be taken “in the national interest” at the right time. “We are monitoring the world situation every minute. A decision will be taken in the national interest. A decision in this regard will be declared at the right time,” Mr Javadekar said, adding that an empowered group of officials was assessing the situation.

Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhara Rao is among those who have pitched for extending the lockdown.

“My personal opinion is that lockdown has to continue longer. We need to save lives, later we can save the economy,” Rao, whose state has the fourth highest number of COVID-19

British PM in ICU with COVID-19

Save money to fight COVID-19: Sonia to PM

Boris Johnson (File)

LONDON, APR 7 (PTI): British Prime Minister Boris Johnson who was hospitalised with persistent coronavirus symptoms is stable in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a London hospital and has not required ventilator support for breathing, Downing Street said in a health update on Tuesday.

Johnson, who had been shifted to the ICU Monday night, remains in “good spirits” and has not been diagnosed with pneumonia – one of the fallouts in serious COVID-19 patients.

“The PM has been stable overnight and remains in good spirits. He is receiving standard oxygen treatment and is breathing without any other assistance,” a Downing Street spokesperson said.

Johnson, 55, was taken to St Thomas’ Hospital Sunday night for “routine tests”.

His condition “worsened” during the course of Monday when his doctors decided to shift him to ICU.

NEW DELHI, APR 7 (IANS): A day after her telephonic conversation with the Prime Minister on the fight against Covid-19, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting five measures to curb government “expenditure” and to divert money in fighting the deadly virus.

Gandhi in her letter suggested to Scrap Central Vista project of approximately Rs 20000 crore, suspension of government advertisements and foreign visits of ministers and other dignitaries, and asked to divert the money to PMNRF from PM-CARES fund.

Sonia Gandhi in her letter wrote to convey her support to the decision taken by the Union Cabinet to reduce salaries for Members of Parliament by 30 per cent.

Austerity measures which can be used to divert much needed funds to the fight against Covid-19 are the

cases, said on Monday.

Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot favoured a phased withdrawal of restrictions. “We cannot withdraw lockdown immediately, it has to be done in a phased manner,” Gehlot was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The BJP-led Assam government said it would support any proposal by the central government of a “systematic and scientific” withdrawal of the nationwide lockdown.

“We have consulted within the state on what should be the mode of withdrawal of lockdown. We don’t want that everything should be opened on 15th April morning. We want it to be a systematic and scientific withdrawal of lockdown so that the benefits during the lockdown aren’t wasted in a single day,” said Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

India is currently under the 21-day lockdown since March 25, with only essential services exempted, to contain the fast-spreading virus, which has claimed more than 75,800 lives and afflicted over 13.5 lakh people across 183 countries.

COVID-19: Death toll rises to 162; cases cross 5000 mark

NEW DELHI, APR 7 (AGENCIES): Top government sources Tuesday said “a lot of state governments as well as experts” had requested that the 21day lockdown to check the spread of coronavirus be extended beyond April 14.

However, sources did not indicate if a final decision has been taken on the matter. The central government is considering it, the sources said.

There were also indications about possible relaxations from a complete lockdown for some sectors, including agriculture and unorganised labour sector, at least in some states, while there were also talks about even stronger area-specific restrictions in some places.

Officials said that the lockdown and social distancing measures have helped contain the pandemic in a big way in India.

Citing an ICMR study, the With the preventive measures, the possibility of the infection can be reduced to an average of just two-anda-half persons per patient in the same period, Health Ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said in the central government’s daily

need of the hour, she said.

“In this spirit, I am writing to offer five concrete suggestions. I am certain you will find value in them.”

The first suggestion Sonia Gandhi made was to impose a complete ban on media advertisements - television, print and online - by the government and public sectors undertakings for a period of two years.

She suggested to suspend Rs.20,000 crore ‘Central Vista’ beautification and construction project forthwith.

Proportionate reduction of 30 per cent in the expenditure budget (other than Salaries, Pensions and Central Sector Schemes) should be done for the Government of India as well.

This 30 per cent (i.e. Rs 2.5 lakh crore per year approximately) can then be allocated towards establishing an economic safety net for migrant workers, labourers, farmers, MSMEs and those

status REPORT AS ON APRIL 7, 2020 North East Nagaland Assam Manipur Mizoram Arunachal Pradesh Tripura India World

NEW DELHI, APR 7 (PTI): The death toll in the country due to novel coronavirus rose to 162 and the number of cases climbed to 5192 on Tuesday, registering an increase of over 500 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Health Ministry.

While the number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 4,312, as many as 352 people were cured and discharged and one has migrated to another country, it stated. The total number of cases include 66 foreign nationals.

According to the

in the unorganised sector, wrote Sonia Gandhi “All foreign visits including that of the President, the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, State Ministers and Bureaucrats must be put on hold in a similar fashion,” she said.

She also targeted the PM CARES-fund and demanded that all money under ‘PM Cares’ fund should be transferred to ‘Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund’ (PM-NRF).

“This will ensure efficiency, transparency, accountability and audit in the manner in which these funds are allocated and spent...

I understand that Rs 3800 crore approximately are lying unutilised in the PM-NRF (at the end of FY2019).

These funds, plus the amount in ‘PM-Cares’, can be utilised to ensure an immediate food security net for those at the very margins of society,” wrote Sonia Gandhi.

Hectic renovation works underway at COVID designated hospital. (NP)

Staff Reporters

K Y M C

Recovered Death Nil Nil Nil Nil 1 Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 437 162 2,89,109 75,945

ministry’s data updated at 6 PM, 13 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours.

Fo u r d e a t h s we r e reported from Madhya Pradesh, three from Maharashtra, three from Rajasthan and one each from Gujarat, Odisha and Punjab.

A PTI tally of figures reported by various states as on Tuesday 9.45 PM showed 5,192 testing positive across the country and at least 162 deaths. The Union Health Ministry’s evening update, however, showed 4,789 confirmed cases and 124 deaths.

BAN denounces ‘discrimination’ of local buyers DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): Business Association of Nagas (BAN) has taken umbrage to alleged discrimination of local buyers at wholesale market here.

In a release, BAN said many local buyers with authorisation letters from village councils/competent authorities were being denied their share of purchases at the wholesale market here.

It alleged that the whole sellers were not willing to sell to locals on the plea that there was no stock or the size of their vehicles was small. BAN urged the authorities concerned to ensure equitable distribution during such difficult times. Any person with valid document denied his share of purchase at the wholesale market have been requested conatct: 9436012590, 962588719 and 7005609377.

KOHIMA, APR 7 (NPN): As reported in Nagaland Post, the State government is fast-tracking setting up of two COVID-19 testing laboratories in Kohima and Dimapur and the labs are expected to be set up soon.

Till now, all suspected samples for Covid-19 from Nagaland are sent to laboratories in Guwahati, Dibrugarh and Imphal.

Health & Family Welfare minister S. Pangnyu Phom on Sunday informed Nagaland Post that the state government was planning to setup a COVID-19 testing laboratory in Dimapur in addition to the proposed bio safety laboratory at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima.

Addressing media persons at IDSP hall here on Tuesday afternoon, secretary Health & Family Welfare, Kesonyu Yhome, who heads the four-member committee to set up testing centres in the State, claimed that all efforts were on to set up Bio Safety Level (BSL) 3 lab at Naga Hospital Authority, Kohima (NHAK) and BSL-2 lab at Christian Institute of

Health Sciences & Research (CIHSR), as per highest international standards.

He however pointed out that though the State was racing against time to set up the centres, it would take some time to set them up as security protocol would have to be maintained. But he assured that the committee was on the job and that it had set a target of a few week to get them running.

Though manpower was a challenge for the State government, he said some individuals had been identified and they would be sent out for training during the process of setting up the centres. As BSL had to be certified by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Yhome said the committee was taking every step only after consulting ICMR. He asserted that every step of protocol for setting up of BSL level 3 would be followed so that there was no compromise on quality, adding that the matter was being fast-tracked by the offices of governor and chief minister to ensure that the test labs could be established soon. Yhome said after completion of the process

in setting up the labs, ICMR would inspect them and if any problem was found in security protocol, the council would not certify them.

Therefore the centres would only start rolling up after the certification, he added.

Other members in the committee are CIHSR director Dr Sedevi, pathologist Dr V Khamo and Indian Council for Agricultural Research director Dr Abhijit Mitra.

Meanwhile, H&FW principal director Dr. Vizolie Z Suokhrie claimed that the State government was following the highest protocol in transporting samples for testing by using “Viral Testing Medium”. He said the medium was reliable and that there should not be any doubt in the minds of the people in this regard.

Further, H&FW principal secretary Menukhol John informed that all districts hospitals in the State were being converted into COVID19 hospitals. He however clarified that OPD service in these hospitals would continue till the time COVID-19 positive cases were detected in them and that necessary instructions had been issued in this regard.

COVID-19: 48 samples test -ve; 13 awaited Screening Status as on Apr 7, 2020: Sl No.

District

No. Screened

1.

Kohima

164

2.

Dimapur

473

3.

Mokokchung

123

4.

Longleng

5.

Peren

1

6.

Phek

12

7.

Mon

29

8.

Tuensang

16

9.

Zunheboto

263

10.

Wokha

17

11.

Kiphire Total

0

26 1124

Sample Testing status Total No. of Samples sent for testing: 61 Total No. of results received: 48 Total No. of negative results: 48

DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): Out of 61 samples sent for testing, 48 had tested negative till 5 p.m. on April 7, while results of the remaining 13 samples were still awaited, government spokesperson and planning & coordination minister (Cont’d on p-5) Neiba Kronu stated.

No of people quarantined Home Facility Sl Quar- quarNo. District antine antine 1. Kohima 164 4 2. Dimapur 1012 26 3. Mokokc99 0 hung 4. Longleng 8 0 5. Peren 15 0 6. Phek 8 0 7. Mon 9 4 8. Tuensang 31 0 Z u n h e 9. boto 42 0 10. Wokha 31 4 11. Kiphire 156 0 Total 1575 38 (Source: H&FW department) No. of Samples sent on 07.04.2020: 1 Total No. of positive results: 0 Samples results awaited: 13

Further, altogether 5,069 individuals had signed up in the ncovid-19 Nagaland app till now, out of which 3,590 had selfdeclared with their details, while details of 1,479 were incomplete. He again appealed those who had entered the State after March

6 to self register in the app with their full details or call the helpline numbers.

Farmers exempted: Informing farmers across the State that farming operations were exempted from the lockdown provisions, he said this being the sowing season, they could hence come out of their homes, go to their fields and carry out all essential farming activities as per needs, while maintaining social distancing protocols.

Earlier in the day, the State Cabinet held a meeting to review the preparations being made by the health & family welfare (H&FW) department to combat the spread of COVID-19 into Nagaland.

Kronu said that the department was asked to further gear up its activities and bring about improvements so as to cover all loopholes that might still exist in its overall preparedness for preventing and managing COVID-19 in the State.

Hectic preparation for COVID-19 hospital Dimapur A COVID-19 patient can infect

This is it!

“No govt worth the name will forego tax collection.

Even in lockdown, we must collect tax with some concession.”

Confirmed Nil 27 2 1 1 1 5192 13,59,398

Correspondent

DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): After the state government had declared District Hospital Dimapur as COVID-19 Hospital with a ten-bedded Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a visit by a team of report-

ers from Nagaland Post Tuesday instead revealed that it was still under preparation.

The team discovered that it would be ready only after a week or so, in order to be able to admit COVID-19 patients. The only part of the DHD that appeared to be

ready for COVID-19 patients, was the 10-bedded ICU, set up in the recently constructed ‘Trauma Centre’. Sources in the hospital also disclosed that out of the ten ventilators for the ten ICUs, four have been received and installed on Tuesday in the ICU cabins.

The hospital also plans to convert two more wards in the main hospital into ICU and install the remaining six ventilators.

A major portion of the hospital which has been in a dilapidated state, is undergoing an emergency major renovation and repair.

During the visit by the team of reporters, it was also discovered that not a single bed in the general ward section was ready except the beds in the ICU cabins.

The Integrated AYUSH Hospital, located at the same premises, is also part of the COVID-19 hospital. However, the condition of the building was worse than the main hospital building and also undergoing major renovation. When pressed for information, sources

from the hospital who spoke on condition of anonymity admitted that the hospital was “practically not prepared” at the present to admit any COVID-19 patients till the repairs and renovation was (Cont’d on p-5) completed.

Shortage of staff

Apart from the infrastructural problem, the Dimapur COVID19 hospital is also facing severe shortage of medical doctors and nurses. The hospital does not have an epidemiologist.

District Hospital Dimapur, considered one of the biggest hospitals in Nagaland, has only 39 doctors and 100 nurses, inclusive of doctors and nurses of National Health Mission (NHM).

A medical staff informed that the hospital faced acute shortage of masks and sanitizers during the initial days of the outbreak in India. However, this was taken care off with donations from many individuals and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).

406 people in 30 days: ICMR

NEW DELHI, APR 7 (PTI): An ICMR study has found that a COVID-19 patient can infect 406 people in 30 days if preventive measures such as lockdown and social distancing are not implemented, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. With preventive measures in place, the possibility of the infection can be reduced to an average of just two-and-a-half persons per patient in the same period, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Health Lav Agarwal said.

Referring to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) study, Agarwal said the current ‘R0’ or R naught for the coronavirus infection is somewhere between 1.5 and 4.

‘R0’ is a mathematical term that indicates how contagious an infectious disease is.

It tells the average number of people who will catch a disease from one infected person.

“If we take ‘R0’ to be 2.5 then one positive person can infect 406 people in 30 days, if the lockdown and social distancing measures are not in place, but if social exposure is reduced by 75 per cent then that one sick person will only be able to infect only 2.5 persons,” he said, highlighting the importance of the ongoing 21-day lockdown and social distancing. He appealed to the people to adopt social distancing and follow the lockdown order, saying this is a very important intervention in terms of coronavirus management.

Agarwal further said that the Health Ministry in close coordination with the Ministry of Pharmaceuticals, proper matching has been done over the national requirement of hydroxychloroquine and added there is sufficient quantity of drugs for management for coronavirus in the country.

K Y M C

state

2

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

Preventive measures, guidelines, appeals for COVID-19

Legislators and DTF Kohima COVID-19 team members at PHC Sechü on April 6. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: To prevent the possible outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic into the state, many preventive measures and guidelines have been undertaken on a daily basis in Nagaland.

Visits are also being made by authorities to various COVID-19 Hospitals and quarantine centres to ensure that Nagaland is well prepared to tackle the pandemic.

Legislators and DTF Kohima COVID-19 visit health centres: As preparatory measures to fight against the COVID-19, the legislators and district task force (DTF) for Kohima COVID-19 visited isolation wards/health centers located at Western Angami area on April 6 to assess the availability of medical facilities and also to examine the status of preparations undertaken at the centers. According to DIPR report, the team led by legislators in-charge of Kohima district, minister for Housing and Mechanical, Tongpang Ozukum and advisor Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Dr. Neikiesalie Nicky Kire along with Keneizhakho Nakhro MLA, DC Kohima Gregory Thejawelie, Sr. SP Kohima K. Sophie, CMO Kohima Dr. Vezokholu and other DTF members accompanied by area leaders visited the isolation wards/ primary health centers of Jotsoma, Khonoma, Mezoma and Sechü. Minister Tongpang and advisor, Dr. Nicky interacted with the health workers and community leaders and lauded their efforts towards preparedness and precautionary measures undertaken at the village levels in monitoring and safeguarding their villages.

Medical officers/health workers and community leaders highlighted the availability of medical facilities and preparedness status of their respective villages.

Legislators visit Mokokchung District C OV I D - 1 9 H o s p i t a l : Mokokchung District COVID-19 in-charge minister of Rural Development Metsubo Jamir and Advisor National Highways, Treasuries & Accounts Dr. Longri today held a meeting with the Mokokchung District Task Force on COVID19 at the conference hall of ADC Planning, Mokokchung. The meeting was held mainly to take stock on the situation of the district and also to oversee the pre-

paredness of the district on COVID-19. At the meeting, medical department led by the chief medical officer and medical superintendent of IMDH gave a detailed assessment of the hospital and other aspects. It was disclosed that the hospital has received ventilators, PPE, triple layered masks, hand sanitizers and others.

However, the officers added that the hospital was facing shortages on protective equipments especially PPE and asked the in-charge to look into the shortages. The same appeal was also echoed by deputy commissioner at the meeting. The medical officers also informed the house that a total of 571 persons have been quarantined, out of which 475 have completed their quarantine.

However, they expressed concern over those persons who entered the district before the lockdown. On the status of IMDH being turned COVID-19 hospital, officials stated that IMDH was now ready to accept COVID-19 positive patients if situation arises. Metsubo while addressing the meeting also called upon the cooperation of all the concerned as the police and district administration alone cannot oversee in implementing the lockdown. He also solicited the cooperation of all the NGOs like Ao Senden, Watsu Mungdang, AKM and All Ward Union Mokokchung who also attended the meeting.

The team also visited District COVID-19 Hospital Mokokchung to oversee the preparation. The visiting team came across the installation of ventilators in the hospital that was underway.

Various aspects of the hospital like toilet facilities, both for patients as well as staff were taken into account by the team. Metsubo Jamir also donated two numbers of solar street lights to be used at the COVID-19 Hospital. (Correspondent) Principal director DHFW visits Phek, Wokha to asses preparedness: Principal director (PD), directorate of Health & Family Welfare (DHFW) Kohima, Dr. Vizolie along with state officials visited Phek on April 7, to assess the district COVID-19 preparedness and provide handholding support.

A press release from NHM Phek district media officer, Kutolu Nakro stated that, a meeting was con-

Metsubo along with the visiting team witnessed the installation of ventilators at the hospital, Tuesday. (NP)

vened with the district officials and staff of the department where deputy commissioner and superintendant of Police also attended. Dr. Lanuakum district surveillance officer for COVID-19 gave an overview preparedness status of the district and Dr. Ruokuo Rutsa presented the preparedness of the quarantine centres set up in the district. Dr. Tiala medical superintendant DH Phek also shared about the requirements of the hospital. Dr. Vizolie stressed on the need to create awareness among the general public on COVID-19 and how to take precautionary measures. He also said not to stigmatise the disease but to educate people on the preventive measures. He along with the team visited District Hospital and expressed satisfaction and suggested to convert the DH into a COVID19 hospital. He lauded the surveillance team and all the health workers and also the administration department and Police department for the support given to combat the disease. Deputy commissioner and superintendant of Police also gave their assurance of full support to the department for containment of the disease.

Meanwhile Dr. Puse deputy director DHFW spoke on the bio-waste management and how to handle and dispose of waste materials if any positive case has to be treated. Dr. Vibeituonuo Mepfuo chief medical officer, Phek chaired the meeting. Meanwhile, the PD also visited Wokha along with directorate officials on April 7.

A press release from CMO office stated that, he visited Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital which will be handling COVID-19 cases in the district and quarantine facility. Dr. Suokhrie also interacted with district medical officials to review the preparedness on COVID-19 undertaken in the district.

Dr. Vizolie stated that safety of health workers was top priority and assured that more personal protection equipments will be available soon. He urged the health workers to follow protocol during sample collection of suspected COVID-19 cases and focus on having a proper logistic management system. Dr. Puse Liegise, state nodal officer NUHM spoke on the importance of following guidelines in disposing biomedical waste related to COVID-19 cases.

chief medical officer Wokha and medical superintendent district hospital apprised the directorate officials of the preparedness in the district. PD also met Wokha deputy commissioner, superintendant of Police and administrative officials at DC conference hall.

Wokha district administration seals Wokha border: Taking advantage of COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, drugs peddlers and substance abuser frequently visit Assam for purchase and consumption.

According to DIPR report, to curb such illegal activities deputy commissioner,-cumWokha district task force for COVID-19, has informed all Lotha villages bordering Assam to totally seal their areas and control such activities so that peddlers, substance abusers do not become victims of COVID19. DC further informed that all the village council chairmen to act according to their village customary laws and law of the land and to strictly enforce and curb such illegal activities in their own areas and strict action should be initiated against the violators.

Department of H&FW issues measures: Department of Health & Family Welfare (DHFW) has issued the following in respect of “Self Declaration COVID19 Nagaland App” in connection with home quarantine: Health officials while declaring any individual to put on home quarantine shall ensure the “Self Declaration COVID-19 Nagaland App” is downloaded in the person’s mobile phone and complete the registration process. All persons who are put under home quarantine shall comply with the following measures: To download the “Self Declaration COVID-19 Nagaland App” in his/her mobile phone and complete the registration process and switch “ON” the GPS facility of smart phone; He/She should always keep his/her mobile phone in “ON” mode with GPS enabled till he/she is released from home quarantine period; Those who are not in possession of smart phone, shall seek the support of the ASHA/ANM/school teacher or any person in possession of smart phone for self-declaration in case of having symptoms (fever and cough and/or shortness of breath) through community reporting; To update

the health status daily in the App, using home quarantine tab; To answer phone calls from the control room/ surveillance team; To cooperate with the surveillance team during home visits; To strictly follow the guideline on home quarantine. Any act of non-compliance shall be deemed to have committed an offence punishable as per the provisions of the Epidemic Disease Act, 1897.

DC Mon informs on GIA fund and home delivery of local greens: Deputy commissioner of Mon Thavaseelan K has informed that 50% of GIA has been released as 1st instalment to enable the villages to meet the immediate needs to combat COVID-19. In this regard, the following advisory is issued to the villagers: 10% of the 1st instalment may be earmarked for “active case search plan”, which will be undertaken by each village task force for COVID-19 in their respective villages. Guidelines for “active case search plan” will be released shortly; Some amount may be utilised for arrangement of water supply, electricity connection, toilet facilities etc in the council hall or any other location which may be identified as an emergency quarantine center for the village; To utilise sufficient amount for the purchase of essential commodities, food grains, medicines etc for immediate urgent use or for storage in a food bank or granary for unforeseen emergencies. It is advised that a major portion be utilized for this purpose so that it would benefit the citizens of the village; Some amount may be kept aside for meeting necessary expenditures such as transportation charge for lifting PDS rice during this period of crisis (in case the cost is not borne by the Food and Civil Supplies department).

DC Mon further notified that the district administration, Mon in collaboration with Hills Area Development Organisation (HADO) under the ageis of Konyak Baptist Bumeinok Bangjum (KBBB) is introducing home delivery of local green vegetables (as per availability) within Mon town, under the banner of “local greens”. All vegetables will be sourced directly from the farmers in the neighboring villages.

One may place order at 9862072613/8730814780 (call or WhatsApp) and the

Principal director Dr.Vizolie speaking at the meeting in the presence of district administration and medical personnel.

available produce will be delivered to the door step (delivery charges apply).

DC Tuensang issues advisory: Deputy commissioner, Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant has issued advice to undertake the following measures: District health authority is advised to undertake measures to ensure continuity of specialist services for general patients for critical cases like dialysis and chemotherapy sessions in day care, emergency obstetrics services, emergency medical care and surgical procedures, provided that necessary measures are put in place to prevent intermingling of patients including putting such services in a separate block with separate entry and exit points; If such segregation measure is not feasible, then in addition to the identified private hospitals, nearest public health facilities such as UPHCs may be identified to deliver specialist services, eg: Obs & Gynae, ENT, Dental, Oncology etc; Private hospitals may not have specialist services in certain discipline such as oncology etc. In such situation, the specialist of the District Hospital should extend visiting consultancy services; Such services to be continued till positive COVID-19 cases are admitted or the concerned specialist is put on COVID19 Hospital duty; There should be an emergency exit plan to move patients out of the District Hospital in case admission of COVID-19 positive case.

DC Kiphire informs village councils and VDBs: Deputy commissioner (DC) Kiphire, Sarita Yadav has informed all the village councils & VDBs under Kiphire district that the department of Rural Development has decided to release 50% of grant in-aid to VDBs for the year 2019-20 to enable the villages to ensure preparedness against the spread of COVID-19 in their respective jurisdictions. Suitable advisory has been issued for strict compliance by all the village authorities: It shall be incumbent upon the village authorities to ensure that the sanctioned amount be utilized judiciously and solely for the purpose of meeting the immediate needs of the rural population in combating COVID-19; They village authorities shall ensure the establishment of quarantine facilities in a suitable location at their respective area

of jurisdiction which is preferably away from crowded or populated area but which is also easily accessible; The village authorities are expected to coordinate with their respective PHCs/village sub health centres to formulate action plan for effective and time bound completion of setting up of the quarantine centre; Quarantine centres once designated must be equipped with basic necessities like masks, hand sanitizers, soaps, separate rooms with beds and pillows, clean bed sheets, towels, most importantly individual quarantine room must also have proper ventilation, portable drinking water, electricity, sanitation and laundry services etc; A detailed action taken report along with photographs, bills and statement of expenditure pertaining to this exercise which is duly approved by the respective administration officers must be submitted to the deputy commissioner office Kiphire for forward submission to the government.

GB Union Dimapur (Sadar) issues guidelines for GBs: GB Union Dimapur (Sadar) has issued the following guidelines for the GBs. A press release from GBUD (Sadar) president M. Y. Ngullie and vice president W. Kholie Kapfo stated that: No GB should charge fees for issuing authorization letter for shopkeepers to procure essential commodities from the market; No authorization letter for procurement of essential commodities should be issued to an individual; GBs should exercise their duties diligently within their own colony vicinity; Only government appointed GBs are allowed to issue authorization with their appointment registration number on the writing pad; GBs should immediately inform the union if any unauthorized person issuing authorization letter apart from colony council authorities; GBs are to work in coordination with the colony council for smooth functioning of the colony affairs; Any GB found violating the guidelines, action shall be initiated against the defaulters.

DDCF appeals to concerned authority: Dimapur District Citizens’ Forum (DDCF) has put forth some points to be taken into consideration by concerned authority. A press release from DDCF media cell

MGM higher secondary school goes online Fire contained in Dimapur and Avangkhu village

DIMAPUR: To keep the students engaged during the lockdown period, the MGM higher secondary school Dimapur has created a dedicated WhatsApp group comprising of all the faculty members with the principal Rev Fr Dr. PS Varghese as its administrator.

The school principal give instructions and updates to the teachers in the group on how to ensure the students and teachers utilise online tools and technology for the teaching-learning process.

The school also has dedicated WhatsApp groups for students from classes Nursery to Class 12 with the respective class teacher as the administrator. The teachers give daily prepared notes, weekly

assignments and post the links/videos from various educational resources like YouTube, SWAYAM, National Digital Library and other websites in the group. The students would then submit their assignments/home work via WhatsApp/email to their respective subject teachers. Some teachers are also making use of advanced educational tools like Google classroom to give assignments, notes and course work to their students.

Besides, the school also has an ERP named Vawsum App (functional since August 2019). Through the app, the principal and teachers interact with the students and parents so as to disseminate information and to attend to school related queries especially during this lockdown period.

DIMAPUR: In the wee hours of April 7 at 2:57 a.m Fire and Emergency Services mobilized a quick response team to control the fire from Fire Station Dimapur (Central) on receiving a fire call at Kuda B Khel, Lane-20, near Hope Academy, Dimapur.

A press release from duty commander SI Kelesezo Tsukru stated that, occupant of the house, a mother age 55 years was severely burnt and her son age 17 years partially burnt. First aid were given

by neighbours and shifted to Zion Hospital. Besides house hold property, lives stock of a cow and its calf were also partially burnt from the fire incident. However, due to timely response from fire team brought the fire under control and also from spreading further. The cause of the fire is unknown. The response team was led by duty commander SI Kelesezo Tsukru.

In a similar incident, Phek Battalion assisted in

averting a major forest fire in Avangkhu village, Phek district on April 5. According to PRO HQ IGAR (N), on receiving information about a fire outbreak in Avangkhu village, a quick reaction team was mobilised from Avangkhu Company Operating Base comprising of 22 personnel. The prompt response of troops and relentless effort, along with residents, averted any likelihood of the forest fire from damaging precious flora and fauna.

has appealed that social distancing should continue post lockdown at least for another month. It also suggested that present system of decentralisation of markets in respective colonies should continue with prices monitored. DDCF stated that in order to avoid mad rush in the market and traffic jams, the CP can adopt Delhi module of odd-even registration number for vehicular movements on alternate days at least for a fortnight post lockdown.

DDCF has also lauded the Muslim Council Dimapur (MCD), Marwari community, Bengali Community, Nagaland Bhojpuri Samaj, and the Sikh community for their contributions in different capacities in and around Dimapur by helping the needy during this time of disaster/pandemic. DDCF also acknowledges the steps taken by all the other civil societies and individuals who have come forward and are helping the needy who are most affected by this lockdown. DDCF also appealed the denizens to follow the directives of the government and maintain personal hygiene and social distancing.

NGF lauds depts for COVID-19 preparedness: Nagaland GB’s Federation (NGBF) has lauded the department of Health and Family Welfare, Police, district administrations, administrative officers and all the people/departments involvement in for their immense contribution in fighting against novel Coronavirus. A press release from NGBF president, L. Shahlem Konyak urged the GBs federation units in all districts and villages to extend full support to the district administration to jointly fight against COVID19 and also appealed the people to be a law abiding citizens by staying indoor during this lockdown period.

VWS to distribute food items: Vikehie Welfare Society (VWS), Viswema has informed that it would distribute food items to old aged persons, widows and needy people of Viswema village under Kohima district on April 8. A press release from its chairman Eyos Kikhi has requested all elderly person and genuine daily wagers of the village to collect the food items. For more information one may contact at 9436435539.

GPRN/NSCN condolence

DIMAPUR: GPRN/NSCN has expressed profound grief at the sudden demise of Obed Murru, ‘rajupeyu’, son of Nihezhe Murru of S. Hotovi village , Kuhuboto Dimapur on April 5.

A condolence note from GPRN/NSCN through its MIP stated that, late Obed Murru enrolled in Naga Army in 2004 and served the nation wholeheartedly with full commitment for the cause of the Naga national movement.

MIP while stating that his contributions towards the nation will be ever remembered by the Nagas, further conveyed condolence to the bereaved family members and pray that the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

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State

Contributions continue for needy people during lockdown

ADC receiving the amount donated by ATBC pastor FONSESA members handing over the cheque to the DC CWS members providing water, juice and snacks to all Bags of rice donated by Azo for the needy and elderly towards the cause of fight against COVID-19. of Dimapur on April 7. personnel on duty in Kiphire town. people of Phek town.

Essential food items distributed by a public leader to Moakumzuk Tzudir (C) receiving the donated sum from Er. Rice and dal being doled out to the beneficiaries by 173 CRPF Bn providing food packets during its civic every household under Tseminyu sub-division. (DIPR) Moameren EE Power (L) with N. Temsu head master. (DIPR) members of KBC Khezhakeno. action programme for COVID-19.

Social distancing maintained during distribution of CHY members providing refreshments to police DAYO members with essential supply of food items to Essential food stuff donated by Jain community to essentials by YBBA at Shamator town. (DIPR) personnel on lockdown duty. be dispatched towards needy households. needy people under Dimapur district.

KYC members with the essential commodities as part The hygienically packed food packets meant for the Residents of Pfutsero town avail water supplied by BTC needy people along with AIDA, JCFD & ACID members. and CBCC in view of the lockdown. (DIPR) of humanitarian service in Kiphire.

DIMAPUR: The nationwide lockdown against COVID-19 has affected many people, mostly the daily wage earners and the genuinely poor people of the state. To alleviate the sufferings of these helpless people, the government agencies along with various civil societies and individuals have been contributing in every way possible.

ATBC donates towards fight against COVID-19: Aboi Town Baptist Church (ATBC) has donated a sum of Rs. 50,000/- (fifty thousand) towards the fight against COVID-19. A press release from ATBC Aboi stated that, the amount was handed over to the ADC and EAC Aboi HQ by the pastor of ATBC, Rev. E. Yeangphong Konyak and deacon Maopong in the presence of KU, KNSK, AASU and ATSU. Aboi town is working hard during this pandemic in collaboration with the administration, Konyak Union Aboi and the church. ATBC also requested the fellow believers of Aboi area, constituency and the nagalandpost.com Poll entire Konyak land that durQ.: Are traditional medical ing this lockdown period, treatment effective for prayers should continue COVID 19? from any place.

FONSESA donates 100% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– t o w ards CMRF for –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 90% COVID-19: Federation 80% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– of Nagaland State Engi70% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– neering Service Associa60% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 50% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– tions (FONSESA) donated 40% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– towards the Chief Minis30% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ter’ Relief Fund (CMRF) 20% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– for COVID-19 the sum of 10% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Rs 5 lakhs (Rupees five 0% lakhs) only, as a token of A B C solidarity with the state 43% A Yes. government in its fight 57% B No. and containment against 0% C Can’t Say. COVID-19. A press release from FONSESA president Next poll Er. Moa Aier and secretary Q: Is the health of the general Er. Chengato Kath people more important stated that, the cheque was t h e w e a l t h o f t h e handed over to DC Dimanation? pur. The contributors are the federating members  Yes. of FONSESA, namely No.  Association of Engineers  Can’t Say. Nagaland PWD (AOE NPWD); Association of WEATHER Power Engineers Nagaland FORECAST (APEN); Association of April 8 Public Health Engineers Nagaland (APHEN); As(Temperature in ºC) Max Min sociation of Mechanical Agartala Partly sunny and summerlike 38 24 Engineers (AOME); AsAizawl Increasing clouds 31 16 sociation of Engineers DeGuwahati Hot with hazy sunshine 35 16 partment of Geology & Imphal Hazy sunshine and very warm 33 12 Mining (AOEDGM); WaItanagar A shower in the morning; hazy 30 17 ter Resource Department Shillong Hazy sunshine 26 14 Engineers Association Kohima Hazy sunshine 27 14 Nagaland (WRDEAN); Dimapur Hazy sunshine and very warm 34 17 Engineers’ Association of Mkg 28 13 Hazy sunshine New &Renewable Energy Tuensang Hazy sunshine 20 10 (EANRE); Member EngiWokha Hazy sunshine 28 17 neers from Nagaland State Zunheboto Hazy sunshine 26 11 Transport (NST).

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Chessore ICDS Project provides service packages to beneficiaries: AWWs & helpers, with a strong and committed work force of more than 9000 has been working round the clock delivering ICDS service packages at the doorsteps of the target beneficiaries across the state with the full back up support and guidance of the department. A press release from Chessore ICDS Project, CDPO N. Ekonthung Kikon stated that, as multiple frontline service providers, the need to accredit, designate and empanel them besides being risk insured and incentivized may come as a boost at critical exigencies like this COVID-19 pandemic.

CWS Kiphire reaches out to frontline workers: Citizens Welfare Society (CWS) Kiphire visited security personnel and Medical staff Kiphire engaged in 24x7 duty at Kiphire town on April 6. A press release from CWS media cell stated that, as a gesture of acknowledgment towards the frontline workers, the CWS provided mineral water, juice and snacks to all the personnel on duty in and around Kiphire town. CWS also lauded the Medical department, security personnel, district administration, security agencies VGs, KTCC, and various NGOs for their tireless effort in containing the epidemic till date. CWS also appealed all its citizens to cooperate with whatever the direction/order given by the government for its own safety. CWS had also voluntarily initiated marking of lines in all the essential commodities shops/pharmacies etc on March 26 in and around Kiphire town.

Kuzholüzo (Azo) Nienu donates towards COVID19: Kuzholüzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA has provided 25 kgs of rice bag each to the family of the needy and elderly persons including the widowers at Phek town. This gesture is to alleviate the sufferings of the people during this lockdown period as a fight against the dreaded pandemic.

Public leader distributes food items in Tseminyu: Ex-candidate of 12th Tseminyu assembly constituency, Er. Loguseng Semp distributed food items to every household in Rengma villages and towns under Tseminyu sub-division.

SDDCF Changtongya donates towards COVID19 fund: Sub-Divisional Departmental Co-ordination Forum (SDDCF) Changtongya has donated sum of Rs. 20,000/- (twenty thousand only) to SDO (C) Changtongya at his office chamber, towards the fight against COVID-19 on April 7. According to DIPR report, Er. Moameren executive engineer Power, N. Temsu head master R.C Chiten Jamir Memorial Government High School handed over the cash to Moakumzuk Tzudir SDO (C) Changtongya.

KBC Khezhakeno distributes essential commodities: With a view to extend support to the old aged people, widows and needy during the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown, Koza Boys Club (KBC), Khezhakeno distributed food items to such persons of Khezhakeno village under Phek district on April 7. A press release from chairman of KBC, Khezhakeno, Ezekiel Koza altogether 150 older persons, widows and needy people of the village availed basic essential commodities like rice and dal.

173 CRPF Battalion provides food packets in various areas: 173 CRPF Battalion Airfield Dimapur provided food packets at Kuda-B village, Diphupar village, Jaloun Colony, Chümoukedima village areas, Hindustan Industrial areas, Razhuphe Industrial village areas, Dimapur bus stand areas in Diampur and at Christ Church Mokokchung. A press release from the unit stated that

water was also provided through water tanker at Youth Hostel Dimapur.

YBBA distributes protective essentials: Yimchungrü Baptist Borü Amukhongto (YBBA) mission centre Shamator town distributed face mask locally made along with basic food items to elderly people from all 11 (eleven) wards.

CHY social service during lockdown: Chümoukedima Hindu Yuva (CHY) Nagaland led by Rajkumar Das, president and Arpan Deb, working president has been providing light refreshments to police personnel.

(CHY) DAYO extends charitable help during lockdown: Dimapur Ao Youth Organization (DAYO) as charity had dispatched several bags of rice, potatoes, onion and salt.

A press release from DAYO media cell stated that, these essential food items are to be identified and distributed through all its 14 units within Dimapur from April 7 to reach out to needy households.

Jain community Dimapur distributes food items: Shri Digamber Jain Community Dimapur marked the birth anniversary of Mahabir Jayanti distributed food packets to needy people, volunteers and police personnel on duty in the town area at Dimapur on April 6 and 7.

A press release from the organisation stated that, 1700 food materials/grocery packets were distributed to needy families of 21 different villages under Dimapur district. Meanwhile, Bade Village Council (BVC) in a press release by BVC secretary, Lhikhro Kreo expressed gratitude to the Jain Society Dimapur for grateful to SD Jain Samaj, Jain Society, Dimapur for providing various food items to 76 households of Bade village, Dimapur.

KYC initiates charitable food distribution to the needy: Kiphire Youth Center (KYC) led by its president, advisors, and KYC members undertook a charitable food distribution to around 70 households who have been stranded in and around Kiphire. A press release from KYC stated that, the charity work was given out to the needy such as daily wage earners, old aged people without family support, mentally ill, widows, and street destitute by doing home delivery. The humanitarian service was initiated as a sense of humanity and concern towards the district citizens during the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown.

Don Bosco AIDA donates to Neisatuo Colony ward 10: Don Bosco AIDA distributed nutritional packets to the migrant workers and daily wage earners dwelling in Neisatuo Colony ward 10, Dimapur. A press release from AIDA stated that, Don Bosco AIDA, sponsored the kit for the poor and deserving families, which were identified and marked by the colony office bearers and elders. The packets consisted of rice, dal, potatoes, onion, cooking oil salt and soap. Packets were packed hygienically by Assisi Center for Integrated Development (ACID). The office bearers from Joint Christian Forum Dimapur (JCFD), director of Don Bosco Aida and its staff and the director from the Assisi Center for Integrated Development were present.

BTC and CBCC supply water at Pfutsero town: As the lock down continues throughout the state including Pfutsero town at Phek district, the Baptist Theological College (BTC) and Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) supplied water to the affected colonies with shortage of water at Pfutsero town on April 7. According to DIPR report, vehicle belonged to the BTC and it was

ULWS members handing over the cash amount to DC Mon towards fund for COVID-19.

Members of Nova Stellam with essential food stuff for distribution to needy families.

financed by CBCC. They will continue the supply in the coming days as per necessity.

ULWS donates to DDMA Mon for COVID-19: Ukha Lamlung Welfare Society (ULWS) donated Rs. 20,000 to District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Mon towards the fight against COVID-19 fund.

A press release from ULWS stated that, the cash amount was handed over to the deputy commissioner Mon. Nova Stellam distributes food items to the needy: Dimapur based NGO, Nova Stellam with assistance from church staff of NCRC (Sumi) Doyapur Road gave away food items to the needy families on April 6.

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Childre n, Grandchildre n & In-Laws K Y M C

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 122 Dimapur, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

Fighting the economic virus

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s the world fights the deadly coronavius pandemic which originated and spread from Wuhan, Chin and which has globally claimed over seventy five thousand lives and counting; the impact at the economic is no less severe.

While the economies of the top developed twenty nations(G20) have slowed down due to lockdown of varying degrees; the world is now left to ponder on how to deal with the economic consequences of the epidemic. China, which is responsible for the spreading the virus has been able to contain the virus through brutal methods, is trying to restart its economic juggernaut. Now, as China is on an economic restart-mode, many countries are struggling to secure their medical supplies from the same country which started it all and also ostensibly playing hard to get amid growing demand. Whether pre or post Wuhan coronavirus, almost all nations had to play along with Beijing because of their overdependence on supplies and equipment. Even the USA, European nations including India, have to explore some sort of a government-to-government arrangement with China to obtain certain urgent healthcare supplies. China’s political clout has been such that even the chief of the World Health Organisation (WHO) had praised the country instead of insisting on transparency in the initial phase of the outbreak from Beijing.Due to the indulgence of the WHO, there was no international body to exert influence on China. While Wuhan was under lockdown, the gears of the massive Chinese manufacturing industries were still moving, though in a much lesser pace while those in other parts of the world, had ground to a halt. Taking advantage of the suffering of the other nations across the globe and who are in dire need of medical equipments and medicines, China is playing hardball but unfortunately, neither is WHO or the UN able to exert pressure to be considerate, nor are they inclined to. As a result, with no international arbiter able to exert influence on either the health or supplies side on China, it was left to the governments of individual countries to literally fend for themselves. India has also decided to go for its indigenous products such as manufacture of ventilators where the auto sector has been exploring options. Many countries, including the US, are beginning to realise that overdependence on China has tied their hands in dealing with the spread of the pandemic. Worse, it has hugely constrained them in fighting the virus in their own countries. All countries should learn a bitter lesson by encouraging cheap Chinese goods and this should kick them to begin proactive steps to step up their own domestic manufacturing industries as the only option. Such a revival of global industries could teach China a lesson that it needs them more than they need it. If India seeks to shake off the Chinese chequer, it needs to be realistic with a post-lockdown economic plan. When that will be is difficult to fathom, since virologists warn of a second wave of COVID 19 in a mutated form. Thus, when India decides to exit the lockdown or how, will demonstrate how prepared India is, the efficacy of its system, and its reliability as a global alternative for the future.

DailyDevotion Why We Lack Understanding

He commanded them that they should tell no one the things they had seen, till the Son of Man had risen from the dead. —Mark 9:9 As the disciples were commanded, you should also say nothing until the Son of Man has risen in you— until the life of the risen Christ so dominates you that you truly understand what He taught while here on earth. When you grow and develop the right condition inwardly, the words Jesus spoke become so clear that you are amazed you did not grasp them before. In fact, you were not able to understand them before because you had not yet developed the proper spiritual condition to deal with them.

Our Lord doesn’t hide these things from us, but we are not prepared to receive them until we are in the right condition in our spiritual life. Jesus said, “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now” (John 16:12). We must have a oneness with His risen life before we are prepared to bear any particular truth from Him. Do we really know anything about the indwelling of the risen life of Jesus? The evidence that we do is that His Word is becoming understandable to us. God cannot reveal anything to us if we don’t have His Spirit. And our own unyielding and headstrong opinions will effectively prevent God from revealing anything to us. But our insensible thinking will end immediately once His resurrection life has its way with us. “…tell no one….” But so many people do tell what they saw on the Mount of Transfiguration— their mountaintop experience. They have seen a vision and they testify to it, but there is no connection between what they say and how they live. Their lives don’t add up because the Son of Man has not yet risen in them. How long will it be before His resurrection life is formed and evident in you and in me?

Quotes

Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. ~ John F. Kennedy

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

Post-mortem

The world after COVID-19 on Nagaland perspective

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ll events have been called off, schools and colleges are out, vehicles are off the road, shops are shut and the towns are deserted.

What took many decades to change is now taking less than 24 hours. Ironically, Bill Gates on his 2015 TED talk warned the world by saying that we are not ready for the next outbreak. He also mentioned, “if anything kills over more than 10 million people in the next few decades, it is most likely to be a highly infectious virus rather than a war, not missile but microbes”.

The world is facing the worst catastrophe of our generation. We were preparing for nuclear war, building the best military weapons, writing algorithms to encrypt other countries’ information, but all of a sudden, the COVID-19 pandemic came outside of the syllabus. And not surprisingly, we are not ready for it.

This too shall pass and we will persevere but every decision and action the government and people take during this short period will most probably change the course of our life and our culture. We cannot predict what will happen after the pandemic is over but we can surely say that the world and our lifestyle will change. Yuval Noah Harari, the author of “21 Lessons for 21st Century” in his recent article on “The World after Coronavirus” published in the Financial Times says, “In this time of crisis, we face two particularly important choices.

The first is between totalitarian surveillance and citizen empowerment. The second is between nationalist isolation and global solidarity”.

So what do we do now?

Thousands of migrant workers lost their jobs and they fear hunger will kill them before the virus does. First-time entrepreneurs and small business owners are losing their business. Hotels, restaurants, parks, and airlines have temporarily suspended their operation.

Within a week of lockdown, the prices of essential commodities have doubled or even more, leaving the middle and lower class the most vulnerable. As small businesses are affected and productions are hampered, the raw material needed for the various industries will be affected and will result in a negative impact.

In India, according to the National Health Profile, there is just one allopathic government doctor available for every 11,082 people across the country, a figure more than 10 times the recommended ratio of 1:1000 by WHO. And in our state of Nagaland, we have zero COVID-19 testing center.

On normal days, we don’t even have basic health check-up facilities in our hospitals. We are surely lacking not only medical professionals but also quality medical infrastructure.

According to UNESCO, 1,543,446,152 students are out of schools worldwide, i.e., 89.5% in over 188 countries (as of 3/04/2020) roughly 9

out of 10 students. Ever since the internet revolution, the education industry is trying to move from physical education to online education and from the last decade much online education has started but it is yet far from bringing education online significantly. But now due to the pandemic, what could not be changed over a decade ago, is changing in less than a week if not within 24 hours’ time as we don’t have a choice but to move on to online learning. But how far is this effective and how many students are treating online learning as important as learning from a physical classroom?

Achin Hangsing, a skill based teacher in a government school in Kohima, Nagaland says that there are hardly a few students in her class who have access to a smartphone if not a laptop. Proper technology with internet facilities that can access quality educational content is still a far reach for students in the 3rd world and developing countries. On another account, Dr Kaholi Zhimomi says, “There aren’t even proper physical libraries in schools and colleges in Nagaland, so it is hard to think of a digital library.” In our state education is mostly imparted through a teacher to student medium usually. Students don’t read extra books apart from their subjects or there are hardly any libraries that provide them additional reference books.

Menule Chirhah from Nagaland University says that her

University has not started any online courses nor is there any initiative. In Bengaluru, Kili Sumi, a law student says she doesn’t find interest in learning online as much as learning in a physical classroom.

In such scenarios, what should be the solution to future education? UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said, “While temporary school closures as a result of health and other crises are not new, unfortunately, the global scale and speed of the current educational disruption is unparalleled and, if prolonged, could threaten the right to education”. What could be the solution?

After analyzing the current education system, one of the possible solutions could be to cut down on lengthy and unnecessary syllabus and subjects and teach courses that are relevant or may be important in our future world, start online education as early and as much as we can and use minimum physical learning for those courses and subjects that can’t be taught online.

On the business front, in order to tide suffering businesses especially small business owners and farmers, zero or low interest loans should be provided. Assistance should be given to temporarily feed and house migrants, the poor and needy.

At this time of crisis, every small action of the government matters. The Singaporean government began screening

passengers coming from China starting the 2nd of January before even knowing that this would become a pandemic.

They didn’t take any chances.

Yet, our Indian Government held the first conference regarding COVID-19 only in the first week of March 2020. And instead of holding a conference with medicals or front line professionals our PM instead holds it with sports personalities on COVID-19 which is outside of their professional purview and this is really disheartening.

Coming back to Nagaland, since the lockdown there is more chaos than ever.

Medical professionals are assaulted, the price of essential commodities have increased to double or triple the price. There is a complete lack of coordination and cooperation. Citizens doubt the government’s ability to protect them and look after their welfare, and often they have to help themselves.

When the news was brought to Nagaland and panic started, people rushed to buy hand sanitizers, face masks, etc, and in two days, they were out of stock but luckily some of the schools and colleges that teach science stepped up to the plate and prepared hand sanitizers which they distributed to those who needed it most.

When social distancing was declared to be the best practice and corporations asked their employees to work from home, the cybersecurity attack increased tremendously, fake news and rumours spread like

wildfire, home wifi is not working, domestic violences were reported, the WFH turned into WTF. Vituonuo Valerie, a Software Engineer from Kohima, said: “WFH is impossible and just a dream with the kind of internet network we get in our state”.

Everything is not okay anymore and we are not in normal times. The pandemic has made us realize that we humans need to differentiate between wants and needs and that we just need basic necessities to survive. People with 10 cars in the family cannot drive them now, people with 10 houses cannot live in all those houses now because they are stranded in only one house. Should this be the time when those that are wealthier consider being a little more generous and a little fairer to make sure those who are in need are looked after?

Because the virus doesn’t care if you live in 10 Downing Street or Dharavi in Mumbai, viruses can affect us all.

At this period of the pandemic, we need the strongest level of cooperation, the government needs to regain the trust of its citizens. As much as we need to have faith in our God, we also need to trust the progress made by science and technology, the algorithm that can help us check our health status 24x7. In cities like Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, corporations are using robots to deliver essential commodities.

(To be concluded) Kuzote Lohe

God intervenes in human history NSCN-IM statement on COVID-19 T N ever in history have human attained such progress with science and technology. To say the least, the achievements have become mind boggling. However, human have gone mad with their own accomplishments and inventions. For instance, with nuclear armament, human have the capability to destroy each other and the planet earth within a few hours.

Alongside technological advancement, with the demise of imperialism and colonalism in the 20th century, several political systems, to name few, communism and socialism, republic and democrat have played vital roles in shaping the human mind and practice.

Regretfully, the sovereignty of God is either deligitimized or secularized within these political matrixes.

Reckoning human civilizations, when Chinese were writing books and wearing fine silk, Europeans were illiterate and clothed themselves in animal skins. When Socrates and Plato in Greece were dreaming of an utopian society, rule by Philosopher King, Germans were living a boisterous and adventures life of hunting and crude farming. They were called “Barbarian” and “Pagan” because of lack of refine-

ment and philosophy. However, by the 18th century, the erstwhile Germanic tribes had sway over entire Asia, Africa, and Latin America. With the dawn of 20th century, through the emancipation of self consciousness and identity, the Imperial powers of Europe were overthrown. As a result, many nations were born in the continents of Asia, African, and Latin America.

4000 years back, the Egyptian civilization with its powerful Pharaohs shaped the world of antiquity. When Moses, the leader of Israel, the slave race approached Pharaoh, saying, “The Lord, the God of Israel says, ‘Let my people go,’” Pharoah responded, “Who is the Lord, the God of Israel, why should I listen to him and let Israel go?” The power of Almighty God sent ten plagues (epidemics) to the nation. At last, the God of Israel punished the nation of Egypt. Israel was delivered by the hand of Almighty God. Again, in 607 BCE, Belshazzer, the last great Babylonian ruler, in the midst of his splendour and glory was visited by the wrath of God. The king saw the hand writing on the wall, and turned pale out of fear. Daniel interpreted the revelation of God, and behold that same night, the king was

assassinated and his empire divided into three kingdoms. Today, that same God is revealing his omnipotence, beginning with atheistic China, where the pandemic Coronavirus originated. The global distribution has brought the world to its knees. Our story has become one of helplessness! Science and technology, advanced medicine, and political systems have failed to protect our planet!

The only remedy to our predicament is to recognize the Living God, the God who holds the universe in the palm of his hand, and to acknowledge him as our Creator and Sustainer, and call upon him to forgive us of our sins. Then God will heal our planet, in the same way he answered King Solomon’s prayer back in 1000 BCE: “Whenever I hold back the rain or send locusts to eat up the crops or send an epidemic on my people. If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven , and forgive their sins and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7: 13,14).

Rev. Dr. V. K. Nuh, Chairman Naga Archives and Research Center Toulozouma Dimapur

he world is in turmoil as people infected with Coronavirus keeps increasing and the death toll climbing. India is no exception. Nagaland state till now has not tested any single person positive. Nevertheless, there is no chance for laxity but to stand by lockdown rules. The fight against Covid19 is going on in warlike manner all over India. There is no other option lest we open the door for the contagious virus to play hell among us.

This calls for leaving aside playing petty politics but jointly fight with “one voice one action” in solidarity with the rest of the world.

Doctors, nurses and medical personnel are going through horrendous time, leading from the front putting their lives at heavy risk. Let us continue to uphold them in our prayer. They are the brave real fighters living up

to their medical ethics that patients are the priority. May God give them the strengthphysically and spiritually, to carry on their profession un-hindered!

Notwithstanding the hardships in the face of the lockdown the fight against the Corona virus must continue vigorously till we are free from the danger. Let us, therefore, stand in solidarity with the government order to obey the guided preventive measures being updated every now and then.

We should be prepared for the worst, depending on the situation even after the ongoing lockdown period is over because it is a matter of life and death. But, above everything let us renew our faith in God and fight the good fight with Him as our sustainer and protector. Kuknalim Issued by MIP, NSCN/ GPRN

Rejoinder to ‘Who convened Naga People Convention’ H (From previous issue) ad the Naga People’s Convention and agents of the Government of India not hijacked the process of the National political movement from Phizo and the Naga National Council by those educated and well placed bureaucrats at the behest of the Indian agencies it would have been a totally different story. The NPC which was purportedly a go-between to facilitate understanding between Government of India and the Naga Nationalists became the negotiator for the premeditated statehood of Nagaland, which accepts Indian citizenship, thereby creating deep divisions within the Naga people, as manifested in the finger pointing article of T. Solo.

The Government of India exposed itself much later when they stated that there is no issue outstanding with Nagaland State and that it is the NAGA ISSUE that remains to be addressed. In the light of the same, it is clear that the Naga Political movement would have ended with the creation of Nagaland State in 1963 had the plan and scheme of the GOI of India through the NPC , worked and succeeded at that time.

Mr T. Solo seems to have no knowledge of the situation of Nagas in Manipur. It is incorrect that there were four Naga CMs who stood against Naga integration It has even been recently clarified by Z. Lohe too, that it was late Reishang Keishing, former Chief Minister of Manipur

who stood against Naga integration and the same had been wrongly attributed to Yangmaso Shaiza, the only other Naga Chief Minister of Manipur. In a house of 60, with only 10 MLAs, that too in different Political parties, no Naga can become the Chief Minister unless he enjoys the support of majority of 40 Meitei MLAs and 10 non- Naga tribal MLAs. It was just mathematics of state electoral politics that made Reishang and Yangmaso Chief Ministers of Manipur. If at all, they may be blamed individually but not the entire Nagas in Manipur. Memoranda have been submitted demanding for Naga integration as per the wish of the people by Naga legislators to the Govt of India, where it mattered in the given realities.

While we do not want to justify the position of Naga legislators and the role they played in the Manipur Assembly vis-a-vis the issue of Naga Integration, we desire to put on record that Nagas in Manipur have indelibly asserted the rights of the Naga people to be under one political umbrella and for which the following facts are highlighted in brief – i) Nagas in Manipur, under the Naga National League took up boycott of preparation of electoral rolls in Naga areas in Manipur and the “No House Tax Campaign” in 1948 to demand for merger with the then Naga Hills district of Assam The movement was forcibly suppressed result-

ing in death of 3 volunteers and wounding of many. ii) Nagas in Manipur participated in the 1951 plebiscite which gave the Naga position on Independence. iii) Realizing the futility of non-violent movement, Nagas in Manipur under the banner of the Manipur Naga Council eventually merged with the NNC in 1957. Even before the merger, the Naga areas in Manipur were already engulfed in the flames of arm conflict. iv) The Armed forces Special Powers Act, 1958 (Assam and Manipur) was promulgated in Naga areas in Manipur because of the Naga movement. v) The 1964 Indo-Naga Cease-Fire covered the Naga areas in Manipur. vi) The United Naga Integration Council movement of the 1970s was an organized expression of the Naga people’s desire to live together. vii) Naga Civil Organisations in Manipur, who are not affiliated to any political party or creed, under the banner of the United Naga Council have persistently pursued for Naga integration. The memoranda, representations and statements, including those jointly made with the Naga Hoho stands on record as to the persistent position of the Nagas in Manipur on Naga integration. viii) Nagas took up the movement for an alternative arrangement (a transitional status before integration) outside the Government of Manipur

pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue. There were 7 rounds of tripartite talk of the Nagas in Manipur under the aegis of the United Naga Council and the Government of India and the Government of Manipur between 2011 and 2014 on this democratic demand. This process was put on hold as the Indo-Naga dialogue eventually gathered steam and progressed. ix) Nagas in Manipur could have got a separate tribal state or separate administrative unit had it not been in deference to the greater political struggle of the Nagas without borders. We understand that a Pan Naga Hoho, which is a consolidation of the concept of Naga Hoho that has naturally evolved out of the Naga ethos is being considered in the impending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue. Based on the Unique History and situation of the Nagas, the negotiators will finally come to a mutual agreement that is fair, honourable and acceptable. Nagas are inherently democratic and the settlement of the Naga issue will restore intrinsic democracy in Naga homelands.

The last para of his article belies his fear that NSCN and Muivah and Tangkhuls will control Nagaland State instead of working for Naga integration. It is therefore T. Solo’s intention to make it difficult for the negotiators and the negotiation to go forward by propping up limiting sentiments and apprehensions. But, left to himself, T. Solo would

end up bringing home only the rope without the cow as it were.

We wish that Nagas in Manipur are not called to clarify their position on the integration of Naga people, or their Naga identity questioned , time and again by writers such as T. Solo. We are all mortal but history in the making will record the truth for posterity.

We respect his age, the accomplishment and status attained

through a lifetime career as a bureaucrat. Nagas do not have many like him and who still possess sound faculty of the mind and wish to remember him this way and not through his tirades.

(Concluded) L. Adani former president United Naga Council (UNC), K. S. Paul Leo former president UNC and Gaidon Kamei former president UNC

Reader’s Post

For successful containment of prevailing situation

Sir,

Rushing at a limited day and time for shopping causes more harm. Why not open essential shops every day for few hours with strict timing and social distancing rules and regulations.

If the shop does not open, how the people will survive for basic needs. Instead it should be opened at all time, the public must take social distancing as its own responsibility and duty. It is disappointing to see people rushing and pushing each other to buy for their daily needs. Shops have to open, on our part we have to practice social distancing. If shops are not allowed to open many people will die of hunger and if the situation worsens the government may allow the public, either poor or rich to go their respective villages as government will not able to feed the poor after 2-3 months and essential commodities will be out of stock.

Authorities may kindly review or look into the matter seriously for the safety and successful containment of the prevailing situation.

S. Richard Humtsoe, Chairman Indian Human Rights Commission Nagaland Chapter Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

national/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

India to supply hydroxychloroquine to US

NEW DELHI: APR 7: India will supply paracetamol and hydroxychloroquine in “appropriate quantities” to all neighbouring countries and nations who badly need the medicines in wake of coronavirus crisis, reports Business Today. The Ministry of External Affairs’ announcement on Tuesday came after United States President Donald Trump threatened “retaliation” if India refused to supply these essential medicines.

S ay i n g t h e m a t t e r should not be politicised, the MEA has said the reason behind curbing its supply was to first ensure India had adequate supply. “We will also be supplying these essential drugs to some nations who have been particularly badly affected by the pandemic.

We would therefore discourage any speculation in this regard or any attempts to politicise the matter,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. He added India had always maintained the international community must display strong solidarity and cooperation in view of the pandemic. Explain-

President Donald Trump speaks about the coronavirus in the White House. (PTI)

ing the rationale behind banning these drugs in the first place, Srivastava said like any responsible government, India’s first obligation was to ensure there were adequate stocks of medicines for the requirement of its own people.

Hydroxychloroquine tablet is used to prevent and treat malaria, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, among other ailments, while paracetamol is used to treat pain and fever.

Countries like the United States have been seeking India’s help to allow the sale of hydroxychloroquine tablets to treat the grow-

ing number of coronavirus patients. During a White House briefing on Monday, Trump said he would be surprised if India refused to supply these medicines.

Threatening India of retaliation, Trump said he spoke to PM Modi on Sunday morning. “If he (Modi) doesn’t allow it to come out, that would be okay, but of course there may be retaliation. Why wouldn’t there be?” he added.

India will supply paracetamol and hydroxychloroquine in “appropriate quantities” to all neighbouring countries and nations who badly need the medicines in

wake of coronavirus crisis.

The Ministry of External Affairs’ announcement on Tuesday came after United States President Donald Trump threatened “retaliation” if India refused to supply these essential medicines.

S ay i n g t h e m a t t e r should not be politicised, the MEA has said the reason behind curbing its supply was to first ensure India had adequate supply. “We will also be supplying these essential drugs to some nations who have been particularly badly affected by the pandemic. We would therefore discourage any speculation in this regard or any attempts to politicise the matter,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. He added India had always maintained the international community must display strong solidarity and cooperation in view of the pandemic.

Explaining the rationale behind banning these drugs in the first place, Srivastava said like any responsible government, India’s first obligation was to ensure

there were adequate stocks of medicines for the requirement of its own people.

Hydroxychloroquine tablet is used to prevent and treat malaria, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, among other ailments, while paracetamol is used to treat pain and fever.

Countries like the United States have been seeking India’s help to allow the sale of hydroxychloroquine tablets to treat the growing number of coronavirus patients. During a White House briefing on Monday, Trump said he would be surprised if India refused to supply these medicines.

Threatening India of retaliation, Trump said he spoke to PM Modi on Sunday morning. “If he (Modi) doesn’t allow it to come out, that would be okay, but of course there may be retaliation. Why wouldn’t there be?” he added.

India, the world’s main supplier of generic drugs, had restricted the export of 26 pharmaceutical ingredients and medicines, including paracetamol, a common pain reliever also sold as acetaminophen, in March.

1 lakh tests in Delhi covid-19 hotspots Amid corona crisis, people NEW D ELHI , APR 7: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced on Tuesday a five-point action plan to contain the spread of coronavirus in the national capital and said one lakh random rapid COVID-19 tests will be conducted in the city’s hotspot areas.

Addressing a press conference via video link, he said the Delhi government-run Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital, G B Pant Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital have been declared as COVID-19 dedicated hospitals.

Currently, 2,950 beds in city hospitals are reserved for COVID-19 patients. The Delhi government will takeover 12,000 hotel rooms in the wake of spike in number of coronavirus cases, Kejriwal said.

“We will give the police phone numbers of Tablighi Jamaat event attendees to trace and ascertain whether they moved in nearby areas,” he said.

Elaborating on the five-point action plan, the chief minister said, “It includes five Ts -- testing, tracing, treatment, teamwork and tracking -- and monitoring.”

Informing reporters that the government has made arrangements to deal with 30,000 cases, Kejriwal said provisions will be made for 8,000 more beds to treat COVID-19 patients.

“The government has earmarked around 400 beds in private hospitals for COVID-19 patients.

We have prepared detailed plan to take over private hospitals if the number of coronavirus cases rises up to 30,000 in Delhi,” he said. “One lakh random rapid COVID-19 tests will be conducted in hotspot areas.”

shower flowers on Nagpur cops

Nagpur (Maharashtra), April 7 (IANS): It was almost like attending a wedding procession for Nagpur Police personnel, officials said here on Tuesday.

A team of tough officers led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Vinita S., Assistant Commissioner of Police Rekha Bhavre and Senior Police Inspector Sunil Gangurde had a pleasant surprise during an ‘awareness march’ in a thicklypopulated Gittikhadan area of the city.

As a team of nearly 75 officers and policemen including five women, besides RAF and SRPF marched to create awareness of staying at home and maintaining social distancing, many people from the area showered flowers on them, said Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr. B.K. Upadhyay.

“It was our third such 2-hour long Covid-19 awareness march yesterday in our zone through Gittikhadan which has a mixed and largely middle-class population, now under lockdown,” Gangurde told IANS.

There were more surprises -- in some areas people cheered loudly and clapped the uniformed Warriors Against Virus, others raised slogans of ‘police zindabad’, and of course some showered flowers on the police personnel.

Not forgetting her own people, DCP Vinita also took a detour to visit the Police Colony, interacted with the family members of the police personnel and expressed gratitude for their unstinted support which helped the policemen discharge their duties in the field, raising their morale.

“It was a very overwhelming experience. My team members said they have never witnessed something like this in their entire careers. The War Against C o r o n a h a s c e r t a i n ly brought police and public closer in these tough times,” said Upadhyay.

With 17 cases, Nagpur is among the less serious hotspots in Maharashtra which ranks the highest in Covid-19 deaths and positive cases so far.

Kerala ahead of other states in health services

CRPF trooper killed by militants in J&K

Punjab issues deadline to Tablighi attendees Chandigarh, April 7 (IANS): The Punjab government on Tuesday gave a 24hour deadline to around two dozen Tablighi Jamaat followers, who came to the state after visiting Delhi’s Nizamuddin Markaz in March, to report their whereabouts to the nearest police station, or else face criminal prosecution.

A spokesperson for the Health Department said all those who had attended the Markaz event and were currently in Punjab should report for coronavirus

screening within the next 24 hours. Of the 467 Tablighi workers who reportedly arrived in the state from Nizamuddin, the police has traced 445 participants, whereas 22 are yet to be tracked. Samples of 350 traced Tablighi followers were collected and tested, of which 12 tested positive and 111 negative. The results of remaining 227 were awaited, said the spokesperson.

The remaining Markaz participants have been now directed to come forward for corona tests.

On social indicators, like education, healthcare, life expectancy, low infant mortality and low birth rate, Kerala’s achievements have been comparable with developed countries.

T h i ru va na n thapuram, April 7 (IANS): Covid-19 cases notwithstanding, Kerala continues to lead states in terms of health parameters as the World Health Day, a global health awareness day, is being celebrated on Tuesday (April 7).

On social indicators, like education, healthcare, life expectancy, low infant mortality and low birth rate, Kerala’s achievements have been comparable with developed countries, that too despite low level of

economic development.

It was termed the Kerala model in the seventies by renowned economist K.N. Raj, who was instrumental in setting up of the Centre for Development Studies, here.

The child mortality rate in Kerala is 2 against 9 in the country, under 5 mortality rate 12 (against 33), birth rate 14.2 (against 20.2), infant mortality rate 10 (against 33), child sex ratio 964 (against 919) and the life expectancy at birth is 74 years against the na-

tional average of 63.50.

During the Oommen Chandy regime (2011-16), the state planning board vice-chairman K.M. Chandrasekhar wanted to take it to the level of Nordic countries.

When Kerala reported the first Covid-19 case -also the first in the country -- on January 30, the state’s health sector rose to the occasion and launched a frontal attack on the infection.

The challenge was also huge because a large

population of Keralites live abroad and in other states. On a normal day around 80,000 people, it’s estimated, arrive at the four airports and over 200,000 travel by trains in the state.

While Kerala has recorded 327 coronavirus cases and 2 deaths, the number in the Nordic countries is around 17,000 positive cases and 700 deaths.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said despite hit hard by coronavirus, the state had been able to stand tall.

Praising the efforts of dedicated and agile health authorities, Vijayan said, “We still can’t rest as the fear of community spread stays. Also, we will have to chalk out foolproof plans to tackle things when the lockdown is lifted.”

An economist, who has worked in the health and local bodies sector, said the state was able to take on coronavirus because of a well-structured health department and it’s perfect coordination with the local bodies.

“No other state can boast of this. This system has undergone a few tests in the past and after handling the Nipah outbreak in 2018, it proved it can handle even more and that’s what one is seeing now,” said the economist, who didn’t wish to be identified.

Srinagar, April 7 (IANS): A CRPF trooper was killed on Tuesday in a firing incident by militants in J&K’s Bijbehara town.

Police sources said militants fired at a CRPF party in Bijbehara town today injuring a trooper who was shifted to the local hospital for treatment. Doctors at the local hospital referred the injured trooper for specialty treatment to the nearby Anantnag town where doctors declared the injured trooper as dead on arrival.

The area has been cordon off for searches.

5 Hectic preparation for COVID-19 hospital Dimapur (From p-1) The sources said the renovation was undertaken at the express directives of state chief minister Neiphiu Rio who saw the dilapidated condition of the DHD during his visit on April 3.

It was opined that had the construction of the new hospital building been completed, there would have been no problem for setting up the 100-bedded COVID-19 hospital.

The sources said the new building remained incomplete for more than a decade.

However, officials told the team that they were ever ready to handle COVID-19 cases as and when the need arose and that they were hopeful that the repairs and

renovation would be completed by after a week.

Some of the officials felt that Dimapur should have been given priority in terms of funding and health infrastructure since it has the state’s highest population and density; influx of several thousand migrants and transit point of the state. Dimapur also has widespread cases of many tropical and endemic diseases and viruses.

An officials also warned that any outbreak of contagious diseases in Dimapur has the potential of quickly spreading across the state.

The officials also expressed apprehension over the supply and availability of oxygen cylinders as there were urgent demands

from all the districts.

The official explained that as COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, every patient would require oxygen.

What was also shocking is the DHD still has no power back up such as generator in the event of power failure.

However, they said a request has been made to the district power department for constant supply (24/7).

The officials informed that the hospital authority had demanded a transformer and as per the recommendation of the power department, an order for a 125 KV generator was placed but due to lack of fund the delivery has been delayed.

BAN denounces ‘discrimination’ of local buyers (From p-1) The association recalled that during a meeting held on April 3 among representatives of the State government’s special committee and various stakeholders, it was decided that buying from the wholesale market would be permitted with written permission from the administrative officer, GB and village council concerned.

Hindu Mahasabha leader held in UP for vile remark

Pooja Shakun Pandey Aligarh, April 7 (IANS): Hindu Mahasabha national secretary Pooja Shakun Pandey has been arrested by the Aligarh Police for making an objectionable statement.

The Mahasabha leader had written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to issue ‘shoot at sight’ order for members of Tablighi Jamaat.

A case had been registered at the Gandhi Park police station against her for creating religious enmity.

Pandey had been arrested last year too when she ‘shot’ at an effigy of Mahatma Gandhi and posted the video on the social media.

If village councils and colonies of Dimapur did not get their due share at the wholesale market, the association warned that this would have a negative impact on the lockdown as people would have to fulfil their needs by venturing out to other colonies/ villages.

BAN also requested the authorities and village councils to keep a check on the price rise.

AH&V services to remain functional during lockdown DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): To ensure availability of livestock health care services and food commodities of livestock origin identified as essential requirement, the state government has included the services of the department of animal husbandry & veterinary (AH&V) and notified that all related facilities including production units and dairy processing plants shall remain functional during the lockdown.

In a notification, the state chief secretary Temjen Toy stated that all veterinary hospitals, veterinary dispensaries, veterinary health centres, laboratories, disease diagnostics & quarantine check posts including private veterinary clinics and pharmacies within the jurisdiction of Nagaland state would remain functional during the lock down period.

The notification stated that all livestock and poultry farming operations both under government and private sector would be continued during the lock down pe-

riod. Further, animal feed plants both under government and private sector including transportation/ inter-state movement of animal feed and fodder would remain operational.

All dairy processing plants would also remain operational ensuring procurement from producer farmers and smooth supply of milk and milk products to consumers.

All concerned functionaries and personnel have, therefore, been requested to discharge their responsibility with the strictest adherence to personal hygiene/workplace hygiene and safety as per guideline prescribed by WHO and the regulations of the State Government during the COVID-19 lockdown period.

Except in the dispensation of their duties, the government has advised the functionaries to strictly desist from misuse of movement other than in their assigned area of work/route which may invite appropriate action under the present advisory in force.

Markaz chief ready to join probe, says lawyer New Delhi, April 7 (IANS): Tablighi Jamaat Markaz’s chief Muhammad Saad Kandhalvi, said to be absconding, is in quarantine and will come out in 8-9 days, according to an advocate representing the organisation.

Muhammad Saad has been accused of violating the lockdown rules and organising a religious congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin area, which has been linked to more than 1,000 coronavirus cases.

Muhammad Saad had reportedly gone into hiding after an FIR was lodged against him.

Muhammad Saad Kandhalvi “He is in quarantine.

It will take him another 8-9 days to come out. If the investigating officer wants us to join the inves-

tigation, we are ready. We will not deter or run away like cowards,” advocate Tauseef Khan told IANS. Khan said the sections of the Epidemic Diseases Act, the Disaster Management Act and the Indian Penal Code under which Muhammad Saad had been charged were bailable in nature.

“In the FIR, all the sections are bailable in nature and therefore there is no need to seek anticipatory bail from the court.

He will get bail from the police station since the maximum punishment for the offences are under two years,” he said.

Cops don coronavirus-themed attire in Raigarh Raipur, Apr 7 (PTI): Two policemen in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district have been moving around streets wearing coronavirus-themed outfits to make people aware about the lethality of the disease and urging them to strictly follow the prescribed guidelines to stay protected.

To make people aware about the severity of the viral infection, they laugh like devils and call themselves “corona demon”.

They have been going around the town wearing red body suits with coronavirus-like spikes on it, and warning those violating the

lockdown protocol.

The policemen have been repeatedly telling people that if they unnecessarily step out of their houses, they may carry the virus back home along with them.

Since the outbreak of coronavirus, police personnel in parts of the country have been coming up with novel ideas to spread information about the deadly viral infection and urging people to follow the lockdown and social distancing properly.

“We introduced the idea because innovations bring a significant change in

law enforcement. Everyday, we try to incorporate new ideas to create awareness about coronavirus and encourage people to follow the lockdown for the safety of all,” Raigarh Superintendent of Police Santosh Singh told PTI. He said the two policemen, who have come up with the innovative coronavirus-themed outfit, have been urging people to maintain social distancing and avoid gatherings.

“The police personnel have also been advised to take care of their personal hygiene and social distanc-

ing when they return home from field duty,” he said.

So far, there is no coronavirus case in Raigarh, but 4,986 people are kept under home quarantine as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the infection.

Most of these people have either travelled to foreign countries or other coronavirus affected states in India in the last one month.

Of the 10 COVID-19 patients reported so far in Chhattisgarh, nine have been discharged from hospitals after recovery.

international

6

Nagaland Post, Dimapur Wednesday, APRIL 8, 2020

Japan declares emergency for COVID-19 World short of 6 mn nurses: WHO UK PM Johnson in intensive care

Commuters ride a train on Tuesday in Tokyo. (AP/PTI) Tokyo, Apr 7 (IANS): Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in several regions of the country, a move that expands the powers of the local authorities in containing the spread of COVID-19.

Abe made the declaration in a meeting in Tokyo with a government group specially appointed to handle the health crisis and after securing the approval of Parliament, reports Efe news.

The state of emergency came into effect on Tuesday in the Tokyo metropolitan area and six other prefectures - Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Osaka, Hyogo, Fukuoka - and will end on May 6.

It will allow authorities

of the prefectures to impose a series of restrictions on citizens and companies to curb the increase in coronavirus infections.

In his address during the meeting broadcast by local TV channels, Abe asked citizens to avoid stepping out of their homes as far as possible until the end of the state of emergency to protect the lives and health of the Japanese people.

The Prime Minister, who, like the others present at the meeting, sported a face mask, requested the Japanese for all possible cooperation to prevent a drastic increase in the number of infections.

The state of emergency allows governments of Tokyo and the six other prefectures to order the clo-

sure of schools, commercial establishments, entertainment spaces, and sports and cultural event venues.

This measure, however, is far from more drastic measures imposed in other countries, such as Spain or Italy, where the entire population has been confined with sanctions for those who do not comply.

Abe said it was important for each citizen to change their actions and added that economic and social services could remain operational as long as gatherings were avoided.

This is the first time in Japan’s history that the measure has been applied.

The development comes as Japan has recorded 3,906 coronavirus cases, with 92 deaths.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was in intensive care on Tuesday after receiving oxygen support for serious COVID-19 complications while his foreign minister took over the helm of government as the outbreak accelerated. The upheaval of Johnson’s personal battle with the virus has shaken the government just as the United Kingdom enters what scientists say will be the most deadly phase of the pandemic, which has killed 5,373 people in Britain and 70,000 worldwide.

Johnson, 55, was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital across the River Thames from the House of Commons late on Sunday after suffering persistent coronavirus symptoms, including a high temperature and a cough, for more than 10 days. But his condition rapidly deteriorated over the next 24 hours, and he was on Monday moved to an intensive care unit, where the most serious cases are treated, in case he needed to be put on a ventilator.

He was still conscious, his office said. “He’s not on a ventilator, no,” Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove told LBC radio on Tuesday. “The prime minister has received some oxygen support and he is kept under, of course, close supervision.”

“The prime minister is in intensive care,” Gove said.

“He’s a man of great zest and appetite for life.”

China reports no deaths for first time

China reported no coronavirus deaths on Tuesday, the first time since it started publishing daily figures in January following the emergence of the virus in Wuhan city last December, according to the country’s National Health Commission.

The Commission said it had 32 confirmed cases, down from 39 on Monday, reports the BBC. All of the confirmed cases were imported, it added.

Total number of coronavirus cases in China as of Tuesday was 82,697, while the death toll stood at 3,335.

Although other countries like the US and Italy have surpassed China in terms of both cases and deaths, the Asian giant was concerned that a second wave of infections could be brought in by foreign arrivals.

It has already shut its border to foreigners including those with visas or residence permits, the BBC reported.

International flights have been reduced with both Chinese and foreign airlines only allowed to operate one international flight a week.

Nurses prepare medicines for a patient in the coronavirus patient nursing department of The HMC Westeinde Hospital in The Hague on April 4.

Geneva, Apr 7 (AFP): As COVID-19 captures global headlines, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned Tuesday that the world needs nearly six million nurses.

The UN’s health agency along with partners Nursing Now and the International Council of Nurses (ICN) underscored in a report the crucial role played by nurses, who make up more than half of all health workers worldwide.

“Nurses are the backbone of any health system,” WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement.

“Today, many nurses find themselves on the frontline in the battle against COVID-19,” he noted, adding that it was vital they

“get the support they need to keep the world healthy.”

The report said that there are just under 28 million nurses on the planet.

In the five years leading up to 2018, the number grew by 4.7 million.

“But this still leaves a global shortfall of 5.9 million,” the WHO said, pointing out that the greatest gaps were in poorer countries in Africa, southeast Asia, the Middle East and parts of South America.

The report urged countries to identify gaps in their nursing workforce and invest in nursing education, jobs and leadership.

ICN chief executive Howard Catton told a virtual briefing that infection rates, medication errors and mortality rates “are all

higher where there are too few nurses”.

Furthermore, “shortages exhaust our current nursing workforce”, he added. In fighting the pandemic, Mary Watkins, who co-chaired the report for Nursing Now, called for urgent investment in virus tests for healthcare workers.

“We have a very high proportion of healthcare workers not going to work because they’re afraid that they’ve been infected and that they can’t prove that they have not got the infection -- or that they’ve had it, and they’re over it,” she said. Catton said that 23 nurses had died in Italy and cited figures suggesting that around 100 health workers had died around the world.

FATF to review steps taken by Pak in June Man convicted of killing B’desh’s founding prez arrested

Islamabad, Apr 7 (IANS): Pakistan’s performance to meet international commitments and standards in the fight against money laundering and terror financing will be reviewed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) at its meeting slated to be held in Beijing on June 21-26, a government official said.

In February, the Paris-based global watchdog against financial crimes gave Pakistan a four-month grace period to complete its 27-point action plan against

money laundering and terror financing committed with the international community when it noted that Pakistan had delivered on 14 points and missed 13 other targets. The official told Dawn news that Pakistan’s performance would be reviewed at the joint working group meetings of the FATF and Eurasian Group (EAG) in Beijing and the assessment would lead to final announcement in October if Pakistan should move out of the grey list.

He said certain action points

Crossword

were yet to be complied with the commitments mainly because of ongoing coronavirus lockdowns. The FATF had announced on February 21 that all deadlines given to Pakistan to complete the 27-point action plan had expired and yet only 14 items had largely been completed, leaving 13 unaccomplished targets. It strongly urged Pakistan to swiftly complete its full action plan by June or else it would be moved to the list of monitored jurisdiction, commonly known as blacklist.

Dhaka, Apr 7 (IANS): Police in Bangladesh on Tuesday arrested a man convicted of killing the country’s founding President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, often addressed as the “father of the nation”.

Law Minister Anisul Huq confirmed to Efe news that sacked army captain Abdul Majed, convicted and sentenced to death in 2009, had been arrested in Dhaka.

Huq, who heads a special task force that had been formed to find the six

absconding killers of Mujib, did not give further details.

Five of the 12 military personnel sentenced to death for the 1975 murder were executed on January 27, 2010, a year after his daughter, current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, came to the power for her second term.

One of the accused had died in Zimbabwe in 2001 while six others were convicted in absentia and declared fugitives.

The execution of five killers - including the alleged

No. 9547 Yesterday’s solution No. 9546

Su doku

No. 4166 Yesterday’s solution No. 4165

KAKURO

No. 3191 Yesterday’s solution No. 3190

K Y M C

Across 3. Death-dealing (5) 8. Belief (5) 10. Fundamental (5) 11. Tup (3) 12. Deserve (5) 13. Favoured or admired (7) 15. Exclude (5) 18. Male offspring (3) 19. Tranquil (6) 21. Gives delight to (7) 22. Viewing organs (4) 23. Source of water (4) 24. Harass, torment (7) 26. Electric razor (6) 29. Free (3) 31. American state (5) 32. Tea urn (7) 34. Rope-making fibre (5) 35. Pallid (3) 36. Finished (5) 37. Jeans fabric (5) 38. Chairs (5) Down 1. Wading bird (5) 2. Confuses (7) 4. Assert (4) 5. Tolerates (6) 6. Afterwards (5) 7. Backless sofa (5) 9. Doze (3) 12. Football boss (7) 14. Unhewn piece of timber (3) 16. Cant (5) 17. Kingdom (5) 19. A good few (7) 20. Minimum (5) 21. Unwind (5) 23. Bereaved husband (7) 24. Next to (6) 25. Vigour, informally (3) 27. Reddish dye (5) 28. Vessels for flowers (5) 30. Sudden fear (5) 32. Condiment (4) 33. Vehicle (3)

Abdul Majed chief conspirator Lieutenant Colonel Syed Faruque Rahman - took place nearly 35 years after the crime against Mujib, who was

assassinated along with several members of his family during an Army coup on August 15, 1975.

The military-backed junta and subsequent governments provided immunity to those responsible for plotting and carrying out the assassination.

However, in 1996, Mujib’s daughter Hasina was elected prime minister and soon opened a judicial process against the accused.

Mujib is widely regarded as the “father of the nation” for leading Bangladesh

through its independent struggle from Pakistan.

At midnight on March 26, 1971, Mujibur issued a unilateral declaration of independence in a radio message. Following the declaration, a war broke out between pro-independence groups in East Pakistan, and the military of West Pakistan, which ended with the independence of Bangladesh. Mujib ruled the country as provisional president and later as prime minister with an iron hand until his death.

Aus Cardinal acquitted of sex offences C an b e r r a , A p r 7 Pell was convicted the boys in 1996 and 1997 (IANS): Cardinal George in 2018 of five counts of at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Pell was freed from prison sexual abuse, including when he was Archbishop on Tuesday after the High one of oral penetration, of of Melbourne.

Court of Australia overturned his convictions for the sexual abuse of two boys in the 1990s.

The judges considered that there was “a significant possibility that an innocent person has been convicted because the evidence did not establish guilt to the requisite standard of proof ”, according to the ruling obtained by Efe news.

It was Pell’s last legal avenue to have his convictions overturned and he said he held no “ill will”.

“I hold no ill will toward my accuser, I do not want my acquittal to add to the hurt and bitterness so many feel; there is certainly hurt and bitterness enough,” Pell said in a statement after the verdict.

“However my trial was not a referendum on the Catholic Church; nor a referendum on how Church authorities in Australia dealt with the crime of paedophilia in the Church,” he added.

“The point was whether I had committed these awful crimes, and I did not.”

The 78-year-old cardinal was held in Barwon Sentilong K.I. Jamir (Along) Prison, some 68 km south 22.5.1991- 18.3.2020 of the city of Melbourne, "Gone from this world but forever in our hearts" from which he was released at about 12.30 p.m. (local We would like to express our sincere gratitude time). to one and all who stood with us at the untimely The child sexual abuse case against the former Vatidemise of our Dear Sentilong K.I Jamir. Our can treasurer, then number grief was lightened by your love, prayers and three in the Holy See, was continuous support in our time of loss. based on the testimony of May the Lord bless you all abundantly. one of the two victims, who denounced him in 2014 after the other alleged victim died Loving, Mom & Family Members.

DP-2225 from a drug overdose.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

K Y M C

northeast

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

COVID-19 active cases in NE rise to 32

Guwahati/Agartala, Apr 7 (IANS): One more COVID-19 positive case was detected in Assam on Tuesday taking the state’’s active cases to 27 while the total number of positive cases in the northeastern region rose to 32, ministers and officials said.

Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said in a tweet, “One more Covid-19 positive case from Dhubri District (western Assam) has been confirmed, taking the total number in Assam to 27. This patient is related to Nizamuddin Markaz event in Delhi.”

Urging people not to panic, Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb said in a tweet on Monday night “First Covid-19 positive case detected in Tripura.

The patient is from Udaipur (southern Tripura). We are taking proper care of the patient.”

The health officials in Agartala said that the 45year-old infected woman returned to Tripura by train on March 18-19 after offering puja at Guwahati’’s Kamakhya temple. “The woman has been tested positive for novel coronavirus on Monday at the government run Govind Ballabh Pant Medical College and Hos-

A security jawan guards a fuel tanker which met with an accident near Rangia during the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown, in Kamrup district of Assam, Tuesday. (PTI)

pital,” West Tripura District Magistrate and Collector Sandeep Mahatme N. said in a notification.

The District Magistrate has formed a five-member Rapid Response Team to look after the patient. Of the 32 positive cases in five northeastern states -- Assam (27), Manipur (2), Mizoram (1), Arunachal Pradesh (1) and Tripura (1) -- 28 took part in the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month, while a Manipuri girl and a Mizoram man had tested positive last month after they returned from the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, respectively.

Another 52-year-old trader in Assam’’s Kamrup (Metro) district has also been infected with coronavirus. Besides, four persons from Assam and eight people from Tripura, who had attended the Jamaat congregation, have tested positive for Covid-19 and are under treatment in hospitals in north India.

Assam Health Minister Sarma told the media in Guwahati that the state government is considering issuing entry permits as a temporary measure to regulate the entry of people into Assam after the nationwide lockdown ends.

“This temporary permit would be a special entry certificate and not on the lines of Inner Line Permit, as is mandatory in the other northeastern states” Sarma said adding that legal action would be taken under the Disaster Management Act against those people who are hiding after attending the Nizamuddin event.

“We are concerned that once the lockdown is lifted and inter-state transport is resumed, there would be a lot of pressure since there are thousands of people from Assam and other northeastern states who are stranded in different parts of

the country and would try to come back to their homes,” the minister said.

Assam is the gateway for six other northeastern states sharing 2,616 km borders with Nagaland (512.1 km), Arunachal Pradesh (804.1 km), Manipur (204.1 km), Mizoram (164.6 km), Tripura (46.3 km) and Meghalaya (884.9 km).

Meanwhile. on Monday, there was good news from Manipur where a 23year-old woman who had returned from the UK and became the first positive coronavirus case in the entire northeastern region, was declared completely free of the dreaded virus.

Manipur Health and Family Welfare Minister Langpoklakpam Jayantakumar Singh, in a Facebook post on Monday, said: “The much awaited news of our daughter Vimi’’s final COVID-19 test report has come out negative. Now she is completely free from the COVID-19 virus.

“It’’s a huge achievement for the whole medical department in general and the doctors and staffs of JNIMS in particular. Let’’s continue to fight and endeavour more to ensure that our state is completely free from nCOVID-19 spread.”

7

Assam MLA held for comments on Covid-19 quarantine centres

Police officials arrest Aminul Islam, the All India United Democratic Front (AIDUF) legislator. (PTI)

G u wa h at i , A p r 7 (IANS): An opposition MLA in Assam was arrested on Tuesday for “controversial comments about the situations of quarantine facilities and hospitals for coronavirus patients” in the state, police said.

According to the police, All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) MLA Aminul Islam had said that the conditions in the quarantine facilities are “worse than in detention centres for the people”.

The legislator, elected from the Dhing Legislative Assembly constituency in Assam’s Nagaon district and known for incendiary remarks in the past too, also had earlier accused the

Bharatiya Janata Party led government in Assam of “conspiring against Muslims”.

He also alleged that the medical staff at the quarantine centres have been harassing the people who had returned to Assam after attending from last month’s religious congregation at a mosque in Delhi’s Nizamuddin area.

“The health staff were giving injections to healthy individuals to show them as sick and coronavirus patients,” he had alleged, as per the police.

Police first detained the MLA for questioning on Monday night and he was formally arrested on Tuesday morning.

NFR to run GuwahatiAgartala special G u wa h a t i , A p r 7 (PTI): The Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR) will run a special parcel train from Guwahati to Agartala on April 11 for the delivery of packages during the nationwide lockdown imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus, a spokesperson of the railway zone said on Tuesday.

The train will depart Guwahati at 4.15 am on April 11 and reach Agartala at 9.15 pm the same day, NFR spokesperson Subhanan Chanda said.

En route, it will halt at Hojai, Lumding, New Haflong, Badarpur, Dharmanagar and Kumarghat stations for 15 minutes each for loading and unloading of the packages, he said.

Parcel bookings will be open from 10 am on April 9 till 6 pm on April 10, Chanda said.

For bookings, people can contact respective station managers or other officials concerned, he said.

Special parcel trains are also being run on New Delhi-Guwahati, MogaChangsari, Kalyan-Guwahati and Shalimar- New Guwahati routes, he added.

Chinese Army releases Meghalaya to be in ‘isolation Will act against racism: Aaditya abducted Arunachali youth Thackeray assures Meghalaya CM mode’: Conrad Sangma Shillong, Apr 7: Meghalaya would for sometime function in an “isolation mode” once the 21-day nationwide COVID-19 lockdown expires on April 14, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said on Tuesday.

“Our priority is the health and the safety of the citizens of our state. Therefore, we will relax the economic activities but it will be limited to the people of the state and we will remain closed and will not allow movement of any individuals from outside the state for at least another two weeks,” he said.

Over 80 samples tested at the North East Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) laboratory for COVID-19 infection have all yielded negative results in Meghalaya.

Interacting with citizens through Facebook on the occasion of World Health Day on Tuesday, Sangma sought to dispel public concer ns on the State’s Cabinet decision to resume economic activi-

ties and functioning of all government offices from April 15.

“Let me assure you that health is going to be the priority of the government.

We are not going to take any chance when it comes to the issue of health, especially in this current situation that the state, the country and the world is facing,” the Chief Minister said.

“We will have to see the economic impact and livelihood issues that are there for the common people. Therefore, the Cabinet decision is to balance health concerns and address economic issues that are being faced by the people,” he added.

“To put it in a nutshell, what we are trying to do is allow Meghalaya to function to some extent in an isolation mode. So, this will be Meghalaya in isolation.

Therefore, we may have construction work going on but it will be labourers and people from the state only.

No outsiders will be allowed to come in. No inter-state movement will take place,” Sangma said.

He however said there

would be some relaxation on inter-district movement of vehicles depending on the ground situation in the next few days, adding that the respective DC’s would work out modalities for movement of essential commodities.

“If we are lucky and if there is no case in our state we should be able to open up the inter-district movement but inter-state movement will not be allowed at all,” the Chief Minister stated.

While allowing farmers to resume their farming activities, Sangma iterated, “There is no question of labourers coming from outside working in the farms.”

“We will be allowing opening of weekly markets in the rural areas so that people can sell their products to each other but there is no question of any trader or person from outside the state, whether from Assam or any other state to come in and be part of these weekly markets. The weekly markets will be limited to the local people and surrounding villages so that at least the daily products can be sold,” he said.

SHGs make masks in Tripura Ag a rta l a , A p r 7 (PTI): Alaka Debnath is busy making double-layered cotton masks in her small bamboo hut at Indranagar in the outskirts of the capital as there is a shortage of masks to fight the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

Debnath is the secretary of Khumpui self-help group, which along with seven other self-help groups in the town have recently received orderfrom the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) to manufacture 10,000 face masks to fight the spread of coronavirus in Tripura.

AMC commissioner Dr Shailesh Kumar Yadav said masks would be distributed among the frontline workers including the health, police and other departments.

A total of 7 self-help groups with over 100 members are making masks for the municipal cor poration so that the demand of 10,000 masks can be met at the earliest.

Debnath said, “We are working from our houses.

The work has been distributed to individual members

I ta nag a r , A p r 7 (PTI): China’s People’s Liberation Army released on Tuesday the 21-year-old Indian man who was abducted on March 19 from near the McMahon line in Upper Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, a defence spokesman said.

Togley Singkam, who was handed over to the Indian Army personnel guarding the border, was immediately put into quarantine amid fear of coronavirus infection, Defence PRO Lt Col P Khongsai said.

When the incident came to light, the Indian Army swung into action and approached the Chinese side utilising the established border management mechanism. Owing to peace and tranquility existing in the region and the bonhomie that has developed between both the border guarding forces, Singkam was handed over to the Indian Army on Tuesday, he said.

This has provided immense relief to the family members of Singkam and also to the people of the area, he said.

Singkam has been quarantined by the Indian

Army and will be handed over to his family after 14 days, the official said.

Singkam along with his two friends -- Gamshi Chadar and Ronya Nade -had gone fishing and to collect traditional herbs from the land belonging to the Naa clan of Tagin community on March 19 when the Chinese security personnel allegedly ambushed them.

While his other two friends could successfully escape, Singkam was abducted at gunpoint by the Chinese security personnel.

The Tagin Cultural Society had approached the governor on March 27, urging him to take steps for Singkam’s release.

A complaint was also filed by Singkam’s family at the Nacho police station on March 23.

The McMahon Line demarcates the boundary between the Tibet autonomous region of China and Arunachal Pradesh, which Beijing claims as its own.

The McMahon Line is not properly demarcated and small cement pillars erected on the Indian side often get covered under wild growth.

PERI MONTESSORI & NURSERY TEACHERS TRAINING INSTITUTE Internationally Recognized

ADMISSION OPEN FOR APRIL BATCH Course Duration Requirement Advance Diploma 1 year 12 pass or Equivalent Diploma 6 months Certificate course 3 months 10 pass 100% placement assistance Centre : 1. 6th Mile Dimapur Opp. Nagaland JCB 2. Purana Bazar, Opp. Renault Dimapur Ph : +91 8575797395/ +91 7005655009

DP-2004

Correspondent

The Biblical Encouragement Photo credit- East Mojo

and they are manufacturing the masks as per the guidelines laid down by the municipal corporation.”

Gouri Sinha, president of Ekata-SHG said that they have 15 members in the group, who are working day and night to make masks from their houses.

“We have been asked to prepare the masks as per specifications. After showing a piece of mask we received order for making these masks for the AMC,” Sinha said.

She also said that these masks have been approved by the AMC with specific criteria of having 100 per cent cotton cloth with 8 inch

length, 9 inch width which can be folded in three parts having double layer of cotton cloth.

Yadav said that the AMC has decided to make 10,000 cotton cloth double layer face masks following guidelines of the government of India with the help of SHG members.

At present there are 7 SHGs making these masks.

The corporation will pay Rs 10 for each mask as stitching cost. Clothes are being supplied by the corporation.

Yadav said, “there is shortage of masks, so we are searching for more SHGs, who can make masks,” he said.

Dear believers in Christ, our state as a ‘Christian state’ poses a big question in the midst of such a pandemic. We look around and everything seems paralyzed. Our faith being questioned and the harsh reality at our doorsteps, do we allow ourselves to worry and fear or rest assure ourselves in God? Ponder on this question. Meanwhile, here are some Bible passages I would like to share and encourage the believers to strengthen ourselves in these times of distress: “In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16) Joshua 1:8-9 Be sure that the book of the law is always read in your worship, study it day and night, and make sure that you obey everything in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Remember that I have commanded you to be determined and confident. Don’t be afraid or discouraged for I the Lord your God, am with you wherever you go.

1 John 1:8-9 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and there is no truth in us. But if we confess our sins to God, He will keep his promise and do what is right. He will forgive us our sins and purify us from all our wrongdoings.

Exodus 16:26 The Lord said, ’If you will obey me completely by doing what I consider right by keeping my commands, I will not punish you with any of the diseases that I brought on the Egyptians. I am the Lord, the one who heals you’.

2 Chronicles 7:14 If they pray to me and repent and turn away from the evil they have been doing, then I hear them in heaven, forgive their sins, and make their land prosperous again.

1 John 5:4-5 Because every child of God is able to defeat the world, and we win the victory over the world by means of our faith. Who can defeat the world? Only the person who believes that Jesus is the son of God. (Mr. N. Neilo Koza) K-863

Correspondent

SHILLONG, APR 7: Maharashtra Tourism Minister, Aaditya Thackeray on Tuesday assured Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma that necessary action has been taken against an unidentified biker who spat on a Manipuri woman at Kalina in Mumbai on Monday.

After his telephonic conversation with Thackeray, Sangma tweeted, “Spoke to @AUThackeray ji, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Govt. of Maharashtra regarding the incident in Kalina, Mumbai where some unknown miscreants spat on

a Manipuri girl.”

“He (Thackeray) has assured the protection of our NE people and he will take necessary action against this act of racism,” the Chief Minister added.

Following the ugly act, the 25-year-old woman lodged an FIR against the biker.

A similar incident had occurred in NorthWest Delhi’s Mukherjee Nagar area when a 40-yearold man allegedly spat on a 25-year-old Manipuri girl.

The Delhi Police arrested the accused.

Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognisance of the

incident at Kalina.

“Yet another case of racial discrimination amid #COVID19outbreak, a miscreant spat on a northeastern girl at Kalina Market area in Mumbai. National Commission for Women will look into this matter for appropriate action,” the NCW tweeted even as it termed the incident a ‘racial discrimination’ amid COVID-19 outbreak.

The Ministr y of Home Affairs wrote to all States and Union Territories, asking them to take appropriate action against those harassing people from the northeast by linking them with COVID-19.

Condemnation of police high handed behavior against the Doctor fraternity pertaining of the case of Dr. Nosezol Sezo.”

IMA, MANIPUR STATE BRANCH: The Indian Medical Association-Manipur Sate Branch (IMA-MSB) condemns the high handed behavior of the police on our colleague Dr. Nosezol Sezo, Senior Medical Officer that happened on 03.01.2020 at Dimapur.

This has happened at a crucial juncture when we all are trying to combat the deadly Corona Virus with the Medical fraternity leading from the front by risking their lives to tackle this pandemic. Further we request you to urgently look into this matter and take prompt action against the culprits. We, at the IMA-MSB believe that all the arms of the government should work together so that we can tide over this present crisis and also in building a healthy India.

NORTH-EAST REGIONAL ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEONS ASSOCIATION (NEROSA): We the members of NEROSA, with deep sense of anguish, protest in the strongest of terms the high handedness and assault, by the police patrolling party, one of our colleague Dr. Nosezol Sezo, SMO, CHC Medziphema, Dimapur, Nagaland, whole he returning home, from COVID-19 Duties, on the night of 03.04.2020, at Purana Bazaar area. His private vehicle was also vandalized in the incident. During this pandemic, when health workers especially Doctors are working overtime, with limited recourses, to protect our citizens from dreaded Covid – 19, if our colleagues are to be physically assaulted and our properties vandalized in this manner, we cannot remain mute spectators. This is the last thing we need at this juncture. We earnestly request you to take the utmost stringent action on the erring police personnel at the earliest, and we sincerely believe that your prompt and strict action and appropriate reimbursement, in this regard will bring back morale to the medical fraternity, in these testing times.

IMA, ARUNACHAL STATE BRANCH: We are shocked and saddened to hear the sad incident of assault on one of our colleague and the senior doctor of Nagaland Government Dr. Nosezo Sezo. He was assaulted by the police on 3rd April 2020 at Dimapur while returning from his duty and his vehicle was damaged. Indian Medical Association-Arunachal Pradesh strongly condemns this incident. These are testing times for health care workers in this Covid 19 outbreak and need support and encouragement from all quarters. They are risking their lives and working out their comfort zone to prevent the spread of the contagious virus. The insensitivity and high handedness of police personnel’s in such crisis time against doctors and medical staffs who are in frontline is utter shocking and uncalled for. The Indian Medical Association –Arunachal Pradesh Branch request your government to take a stern action against such elements and give full support and strength to the doctors and medical staffs to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.

IMA, ASSAM STATE BRANCH: It is with deep sense of regret and anguish that the IMA Assam State Branch protests in the strongest of terms the police high handedness on one of our colleague Dr. Sezo, a Senior Medical Officer from Nagaland today at Dimapur. Sir, when the whole world is passing through a grave crisis and the whole mankind is looking helplessly to the doctors, we have no words to express our pain and we term this incident a shame on the civil society. We earnestly request you to take immediate punitive step on the police personnel involved on the gruesome incident.

The medical fraternity in the country doesn’t wish to disturb or destabilize the administration in such crucial time and we believe your prompt action in this regards will bring back morale to the medical fraternity.

IMA, NEW DELHI: It is with deep sense of anguish and rectitude that IMA Hq. records the concern and protest of the medical fraternity of the country on the unwarranted police violence on Dr. Sezo, a senior government medical officer in Dimapur. Dr. Sezo happens to be the Quarantine officer under the government of Nagaland. He had been assaulted whole he was returning home after a long day in COVID duty. The pretext was that he was not wearing a mask inside his car. His car been damaged by the police attack. The ignorance and high handedness of the police authorities is a shame. These points to the lack of understanding of police in the nature of curfew. This is a health emergency. Patients, Doctors, Nurses and Health workers have the right of way. The police treating it as a law and order situation cannot be accepted. This incident has highlighted this strategic gap in police response. The police officials concerned only exhibited their lack of knowledge and training who should wear a mask and when. Indian Medical Association condemns the brutal police attack on Dr. Sezo and expects your high office to take immediate action on the culprits in uniform.

DP-2226

8

sports

Bribery dogs Qatar FIFA 2022

Zurich, Apr 7 (Agencies): The 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the only major scheduled football event left unchanged after this year’s calendar was wrecked by the coronavirus, has become the focus of fresh FIFA corruption allegations after the release of a new U.S. Department of Justice indictment.

Suspicion and r umours have long surrounded the 2010 vote by FIFA’s executive to hand the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 tournament to Qatar. But on Monday, for the first time, prosecutors set direct, formal allegations down in print.

According to the prosecutors, representatives working for Russia and Qatar bribed FIFA executive committee officials to swing votes in the crucial decision of world football’s governing body.

Although FIFA have responded to previous media allegations about the Qatar bid process by insisting the tournament will be unaffected, the U.S allegations will lead to further questions over the hosting of the competition, which is scheduled for November and December of 2022.

The allegations made

by the Department of Justice are that then FIFA vice-president Jack Warner was paid $5 million through various shell companies to vote for Russia to host the 2018 World Cup. Wa r n e r h a s b e e n accused of a number of crimes in the long-running U.S probe, and he is fighting extradition from his homeland of Trinidad and Tobago. Warner, who was not immediately reachable for comment, has always denied any wrongdoing.

The indictment also states that the three South American members of

FIFA’s 2010 executive Brazil’s Ricardo Teixeira, the late Nicolás Leoz of Paraguay and an unnamed co-conspirator - took bribes to vote for Qatar to host the 2022 tournament.

“Ricardo Teixeira, Nicolás Leoz and co-conspirator #1 were offered and received bribe payments in exchange for their votes in favour of Qatar to host the 2022 World Cup.” Qatar and Russia’s World Cup bids have always denied paying bribes. Qatari organisers did not provide immediate comment when contacted by Reuters.

Alexei Sorokin, CEO of the local organizing committee for Russia’s 2018 World Cup, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Asked if the Kremlin was aware of the U.S. indictment, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “We read the media reports. We don’t understand what they refer to. Russia received the right to host the World Cup completely legally. It is in no way linked to any bribes. We reject this. And Russia hosted the best soccer World Cup in history, which we are proud of.”

The Qatar World Cup organizers have been fending off allegations of corruption ever since the tiny Gulf state was awarded the 2022 tournament.

In 2014, FIFA, then under the control of former President Sepp Blatter, cleared Russia and Qatar of wrongdoing in their bids to host the World Cup after an investigation.

Blatter was banned from football by FIFA along with scores of other officials following internal ethics investigations, promoted by the arrests of seven FIFA officials on U.S corruption charges in Zurich in May 2015.

Muller signs new Bayern deal MUNICH, Apr 7 (Agencies): Thomas Müller signed a two-year contract extension with Bayern Munich, the German champions said Tuesday.

The 30-year-old attacking midfielder’s contract had been due to expire at the end of next season but he is now tied to the team until 2023. Müller has been with Bayern for 20 years, winning eight German titles and the 2013 Champions League, and marked his 500th senior game for the club in November.

“I’ve been with FC Bayern for a good two-thirds of my life now, so you can’t say that the club and I are just along for the ride — we fight for each other,” Müller said in a statement. “This club is not just any old employer for me. It’s my passion. I’m happy that I’ll be here for two extra years, and I’ll give everything on and off the pitch.”

The announcement comes four days after Bayern coach Hansi Flick signed an extension through 2023.

Müller has played every league game for Bayern this season but hasn’t represented the German national team since coach Joachim Löw said in March 2019 that Müller was no longer in his plans.

Pep Guardiola’s mother dies of COVID-19 Rijiju checks on facilities

Madrid, Apr 7 (IANS): The 82-year-old mother of Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola has died of COVID-19, the English Premier League club reported.

Guardiola’s club published a statement which explained, “The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrio in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting coronavirus. She was 82-yearsold. Everyone associated

with the club sends their most heartfelt sympathy at this most distressing time to Pep, his family and all their friends.”

Guardiola made his name first as a player and then as coach with FC Barcelona before moving on to enjoy successful coaching spells with Bayern Munich and Manchester City.

Last week saw City’s defender Kyle Walker in the headlines after he had broken lockdown regulations

imposed to halt spread the coronavirus.

“Footballers are global role models, and our staff and players have been working to support the incredible efforts of the NHS and other key workers in fighting the effects of the coronavirus in any way we can. Kyle’s actions in this matter have directly contravened these efforts,” explained his club adding it would be holding an investigation into the defender’s behavior.

being provided to athletes

New Delhi, Apr 7 (IANS): The world has come to a standstill due to the coronavirus outbreak and sporting events across the globe have either been cancelled or suspended. But Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday held a video conference with regional directors of SAI centres across the country to check on the facilities available for the athletes.

“In the video conference with all regional directors of SAI to review arrangements for athletes @KirenRijiju congratulates athletes for following strict discipline and the rules of the lockdown. Athletes staying at SAI camps have ensured they maintain social distancing and stay in,” Kiren Rijiju Office tweeted.

The second tweet read: Individuals at quarantine facility at DDSC Stadium, Dimapur have developed the “At the review meeting love for the game of cricket as they come together and play cricket with a bat made chaired by @kirenrijiju with senior SAI officials, he was of wooden plank and a rubber ball on Monday.

briefed that elite athletes are being monitored by TOPS team for 1) How they are maintaining weight 2) How they are staying connected to their coach, nutritionist, strength and conditioning experts.”

The third tweet read: “Regional Directors of SAI centers briefed @kirenrijiju 1) All athletes who are home are connecting with coaches on digital platform every day to ensure training isn’t hampered 2) athletes, coaches are enhancing knowledge with SAI’s live sessions with experts. #IndiaFightsCorona.”

The pandemic saw the Tokyo Olympics being postponed by a year and even other major events have either been suspended or cancelled. The fate of IPL hangs in balance as franchise owners and BCCI awaits the next advisory from the government on April 14.

Postponing Olympics has thrown a big challenge: IOC

A group of girls stand infront of the Olympic Rings near the new National Stadium in Tokyo, Japan.

New Delhi, Apr 7 (IANS): Postponing of Tokyo Olympics 2020 has thrown a huge challenge to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), who will now have their plates full in the coming months in trying to make it happen in 2021 along with working on the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 and Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2022.

“Postponing the Games represents a big challenge. In the coming months and year, we will have to focus on the organisation of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, of course, but also on the delivery of the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022, which are approaching fast, and the Youth Olympic Games

Dakar 2022,” the IOC said in a FAQ about Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

“We will need to assess how this workload affects our staff and decide how to organise ourselves to be as efficient as possible in helping the Organising Committees deliver the Games. We will rely on the “Here we go” Task Force to give a clear overview of the situation and of the scope of the challenge ahead of us so that the IOC, as an organisation, can put in place the relevant measures and resources,” it added.

The Olympics was postponed after a lot of dillydallying by the IOC due to growing concerns over the coronavirus pandemic. A lot

of athletes put their weight behind the postponement with Canada becoming the first team to pull out.

“The IOC has always taken into consideration the athletes’ voice, which has played a very important role. We are in constant contact with our Athletes’ Commission, whose Chair is a member of the IOC Executive Board and takes part in any consultation, any decision and any vote,” the IOC said answering to a question on whether the postponement was driven by growing clamour from athletes.

Asked if cancellation was an option at all, IOC said: “A cancellation of the Olympic Games would

have destroyed the Olympic dream of 11,000 athletes from all 206 National Olympic Committees, from the IOC Refugee Olympic Team, and for all the people who are supporting the athletes, including coaches, doctors, officials, training partners, friends and family.

“It would also have destroyed the work and the enthusiasm of our great Japanese hosts, with Tokyo being the best-prepared city for the Games ever.”

On the financial impact of postponing the Games by a year?

“The postponement was made in order to protect the health of all people involved in the staging of the Games, in particular the athletes, and to sup-

port the containment of the virus. It will now be the work of the IOC to assess all the challenges induced by the postponement of the Games, including the financial impact.

“The Japanese government has reiterated that it stands ready to fulfil its responsibility for hosting successful Games. At the same time, the IOC has stressed its full commitment to successful Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

“The postponement was not determined by financial interests, because thanks to its risk management policies including insurance, the IOC will in any case be able to continue its operations and accomplish its mission to organise the Olympic Games.”

Japan ends Olympic flame display

The exhibition of the Olympic Flame, due to remain on display in Fukushima until the end of the month, will be cancelled over coronavirus concerns, the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee announced on Tuesday.

In what was intended as a symbol of resilience, the flame went on display a week ago at the J-Village, Japan’s national soccer training centre.

The opening stages of the Tokyo 2020 torch relay were supposed to be underway by now, but the International Olympic Committee and Japanese government, under pressure from athletes and sporting bodies, pushed the Games to next year.

“Originally we wanted to hold the public display until the end of April. But considering recent developments, we decided to stop,” said a Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

Sachin Tendulkar, Sehwag in Shane Warne’s Greatest ODI XI

Sachin Tendulkar

Virender Sehwag

Sydney,Apr 7 (Agencies): Australia bowling legend has included two India greats in his all-time greatest World ODI XI. The playing XI has been picked from cricketers he played with or against during his international career.

International cricket’s most prolific batsman Sachin Tendulkar and hardhitting Virender Sehwag are the two Indian who have made the cut in his list.

In fact, Sehwag, who made name for his freespirited batting while opening innings across formats, has been made the opener of this XI alongside anoth-

er legend Sanath Jayasuriya of Sri Lanka.

Jayasuriya alongside countryman Romesh Kaluwitharana are widely regarded as the pair who redefined the role of openers from being settlers to aggressors.

At No. 3 is Tendulkar, whose 18426 runs in ODIs is the most by any in international cricket’s history.

West Indian legend Brian Lara and Kevin Pietersen, one of England’s all-time great, follow at No. 4 and No. 5 respectively.

Kumar Sangakkara is the wicketkeeper batsman, again one of the finest exponents of his craft.

Tennis players to compete in virtual Madrid Open

Halep recovering from injury

M ad r i d , A p r 7 (Agencies): A virtual Madrid Open will be held in April as top tennis players swap rackets for controllers in an effort to raise money during the coronavirus pandemic, tournament organisers have announced.

The Madrid Open was scheduled to be held from May 1-10 but has been postponed as both the ATP and WTA Tours have shut down their calendars until at least the middle of July.

However, the claycourt tournament has decided to create an e-sports replica of its event titled the Mutua Madrid Open Virtual Pro which will take place from April 27-30.

Male and female winners will both be given a prize fund of 150,000 euros (£132,000).

MUMBAI, Apr 7 (Agencies): Wimbledon champion Simona Halep is recovering well from a foot injury she suffered in February and is able to run without pain, the former world number one has said.

The Romanian won in Dubai but the injury forced her to pull out of Indian Wells, which was later cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic. “The foot looks good, I have started to run already and I don’t have pain at all,” Halep said in a video posted on Twitter.

“I don’t play tennis yet but being able to do the training means a lot and gives me a big positive actually.”

Tennis, like virtually all other sports, has been severely impacted by the pandemic, with the professional season suspended until at least mid-July.

Halep defeated Serena Williams in last year’s Wimbledon final but will

Andrew Flintoff is the lone allrounder.

The bowling attack consists if three pacers in Wasim Akram, Curtly Ambrose and Shoaib Akhtar with Daniel Vettori as the specialist spinner. ” If you look at this side, this is pretty amazing,” Warne said in an Instagram live video on Tuesday .

Warne’s XI: Virender Sehwag, Sanath Jayasuriya, Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Kevin Pietersen, Kumar Sangakkara (wk), Andrew Flintoff, Wasim Akram, Daniel Vettori, Shoaib Akhtar, Curtly Ambrose.

Simona Halep not get to defend her title in 2020 as the Grand Slam was cancelled due to the virus.

“I miss my team, I miss the players, I miss the tournaments, I miss everyone from the Tour,” said the 28-year-old, who also won the French Open in 2018.

“I know it’s bit tough for everybody, this period.

But if we stay home, if we stay strong and positive it will help a lot. I can’t wait to travel again, I can’t wait to play tennis again and I can’t wait to see you.”

Big shame IPL is not going ahead, says Jos Buttler London, Apr 7 (IANS): Stressing that IPL is “massive” in stature, England wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler believes it’s a “big shame” that the lucrative T20 tournament cannot be held at the moment due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League stands suspended till April 15 and chances of it being held in the near future are also grim.

Buttler, who plays for Rajasthan Royals, however is hoping that IPL can be slotted later in the year.

“I don’t know any more than you know about when IPL would be played or people talking about whether it can be pushed back. At the moment, everything is quite indefinite as no one knows how long it will last. So, it can’t be decided at the moment when it could or could not happen,” ESPNcricinfo quoted Buttler as saying.

“As for the stature of the tournament, it’s a massive, massive tournament.

Revenue that is involved in IPL is massive. It is a very important competition to cricket and it’s a big shame that it’s not going ahead or whether it does have the way to push it in the

Jos Buttler schedule and allow it,” he have to work through as the added. situation unfolds,” he said.

The star England batsThe BCCI is also lookman also said that in case ing at the October-NovemIPL is pushed back, many ber window to host the top players could not take tournament. But the move part in the tournament due can only be possible if the to their national commit- ICC decides to postpone ments. the World T20 that is to “Of course, that might be held from October 18 mean certain players might to November 15 in Ausbe unavailable. They will tralia.

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