August 20, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXX No. 255

DIMAPUR, THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00

Biden secures Democratic prez nomination international, Page 7

Cong slams Centre over NSCN (I-M)’s claims on FA

Parleys between NSCN (I-M), GoI back on track, says Sarma

NEW DELHI, AUG 19 (PTI): The Congress on Wednesday attacked the government over NSCN(IM)’s claim that the 2015 Framework Agreement was signed after a series of discussions based on the principle of “sharedsovereignty”, and sought answers over the deal.

The NSCN (I-M), which has been engaged in peace negotiations with the government, had last week said that an honourable solution to the seven-decades-old violent movement is not possible without a Naga flag and a constitution.

Congress spokesperson Shaktisinh Gohil said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared in August 2015 that a peace accord has been signed and the Naga problem will be solved.

He alleged that when the Congress asked for the details, the Centre did not provide any details and later it emerged that it was not a peace accord, but a framework agreement.

Gohil also cited the recent statement of NSCN (I-M) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah who had said that the Nagas have their own flag and constitution and the insurgent group was not asking for these from the government.

Gohil sought answers from the government over the agreement, stating that this was not a secret deal and people and the country should know about it.

He said all stakeholder states should have been involved in the talks.

Gohil said the government needs to clarify and come clean on whether shared sovereignty was discussed as part of the framework agreement.

The framework agreement came after over 80 rounds of negotiations spanning 18 years, with the first breakthrough made in 1997 when the ceasefire agreement was sealed after decades of insurgency in Nagaland which started soon after India’s independence in 1947.

CCULTN opposes downgrading pay matrix level

M’laya going into community spread, says Health deptt

D I M A P U R , AU G 1 9 (NPN): Strongly opposing the health and family welfare (H&FW) department’s corrigendum to its advertisement for recruitment laboratory technician, wherein pay matrix was downgraded to level 5 from level 7 & 8, the Combined contractual & unemployed laboratory technicians of Nagaland (CCULTN) has questioned the department why there should be sudden change in pay level from the existing normal scale for laboratory technician? In a press release, CCULTN members Kevitso Richa and Ronsen Longkumer have demanded the department immediately address the matter before the interview process began.

Appreciating the department’s efforts, the CCULTN has, however, said it felt left out and unrecognised despite putting their lives at risk and contributing during the pandemic by collecting samples and performing every procedural testing. Further, reminding the department of the crucial role played by laboratory technicians in healthcare system, CCULTN said that there had, however, been no acknowledgement from the department.

This is it!

“I’ve been waiting for this day. I’ve a nice surprise.

Choose what you wantmy left or my right hand?

K Y M C

Correspondent

SHILLONG, AUG 19: Meghalaya health department on Wednesday hinted that the state’s capital Shillong was likely heading towards community spread of COVID-19.

Talking to media persons, director of Health Services (MI), Aman War said that many persons had tested positive during random testing conducted in Shillong and the plain belt of Garo Hills.

“We are going into a community spread in Shillong and the plain belt of Garo Hills, especially in Trikikilla but a statement to confirm this would be issued after discussing thoroughly,” War said.

“In Garo Hills, plain belt areas and Tikrikilla are areas of concern where we suspect community spread has started,” he informed.

Assam Health minister and North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) convenor, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has said that the peace parleys between NSCN (I-M) and the Government of India are back on track, reports The Economic Times.

According to ET report, Himanta Biswa Sarma, when asked if Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio and he had a new role in the Naga peace talks, said: “We were given some small responsibility, we have accomplished that.

They are discussing with the home ministry and the dialogue is on track.”

Union Home minister Amit Shah had drafted Sarma to defuse the situation politically while officials from the Intelligence Bureau (IB) held parleys with the top leadership of NSCN (I-M) in Delhi.

War said an advisory has been sent to the medical officer, who will sent a report to the district administration to contain the area.

Terming the overall COVID-19 scenario in the State as “not good”, Health and Family Welfare Minister, Alexander Laloo Hek said random testing to check the spread of the COVID-19 in the State would continue wherever necessary.

“We will continue to conduct random testing in the commercial areas -Iew Mawlong, Motphran, Police Bazaar-- in the city, besides other areas and localities in the State,” Hek said, iterating the government’s appeal not to venture out unnecessarily and to adhere to all SOPs issued by the Health and Family Welfare department.

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Champions league: PSG reach final

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sports, Page 8

NTC against replacing Ravi State govt spent over Rs. 17 crore for COVID-19 testing: H&FW dept

D I M A P U R , AU G 1 9 (NPN): Against the backdrop of sustained demands by some groups for replacing the present Centre’s interlocutor for Naga peace talks and governor RN Ravi, various organisations in the State have opposed it.

Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC) has announced its support to civil society organisations (CSOs), including 14 Apex Naga Tribal Hohos of Nagaland (ANTHN), Lotha HoHo (LH), Nagaland Gaon Buras Federation (NGBF), Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC), Zeliangrong Baudi (AMN) and Sumi Kukami Hoho (SKH), for their seeking an early solution but without replacing the interlocutor.

In a memorandum addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, NTC president Toniho Yepthomi and general secretary Nribemo Ngullie said NTC sternly opposed the campaign launched by a certain section of people who wanted the removal of Ravi as interlocutor without assessing the reality of the progress already made.

NTC emphasised that changing the interlocutor for Naga peace process

was not the answer at this juncture when the incumbent was diligently trying to work out a solution to the vexed Naga political issue. It claimed that Ravi’s significant achievement was the peace talks entering the “concluding stage”.

According to NTC, the sole motive behind such a move for replacing Ravi was to derail the peace process so that the Naga political issue was back to square one and invite uncertainty in the name of political dialogue.

It said Nagas want real and durable peace within a definite time frame.

NTC said Nagas in the past experienced that whenever there were changes of Interlocutors, negotiations were derailed. This was the reasons why the Naga peace process has dragged on for 23 years. Claiming that Ravi in his official capacity and experience knew the position much better than others, NTC said he had travelled length and breadth of the region and interacted with several organisations, individuals, to bring peace in the region. Hence, NTC urged the Centre to respect the public sentiments and listen to the cry of the people represented by stakeholders.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, AUG 19 (NPN): State government has spent over Rs. 17 crore for testing COVID both through TrueNat and RT-PCR of which some 31,124 tests were through RT-PCR and 21,015 through TrueNat, state Health department said on Wednesday.

According to the department, the government has fixed testing through TrueNat at Rs. 1500 per test and that though the rate for testing through RT-PCR was not fixed, the cost could come to around Rs.4500 per test.

Addressing the media, here at the H&FW directorate office principal director H&FW department Dr. Vizolie Z. Suokhrie admitted that the rate for TrueNat test would have to be revised for private hospitals as they should not run at a loss since one cartridge cost Rs. 1,500.

He added that all RT-PCR tests were being done for free till date.

Dr. Suokhrie claimed that much has been achieved to contain COVID in Nagaland which began from scratch. He said today, all

Dr. V Suokhrie addressing press conference Wednesday.

district hospitals have been well equipped with ICUs activated in all district hospitals and adequate number of ventilators installed.

He claimed though some frontline workers, including drivers, handymen, three doctors, two nurses, sweepers, medical attendants and one pharmacist, tested positive, this did not dampen the enthusiasm among the frontline workers as some of them who recovered resumed work again.

He further claimed that Nagaland was doing much better than many other States in regard to infection among the frontline workers, adding that efforts are on to have zero positive cases among them. Expressing concern over the stigma and discrimination at the village and community level, Suokhrie

assured everyone that one positive case in a house would not spread the virus to the neighbours as long as they isolate themselves.

The PD also said that as 95% of the positive cases were asymptomatic who could be treated at home, the community should understand and support those who tested positive.

He said the State government had issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for disposal of bodies of COVID-19 victims and hoped that colony leaders would understand what was rational and scientific. Dr. Suokhrie said the administration should intervene when asked about rules imposed by colony residents barring entry of people despite government’s standing (Cont’d on p-6) order.

Ex-President Nagaland COVID-19 tally crosses 3500-mark Pranab’s health native of Assam, died at AS ON august 19, 2020 aaround 1 p.m. He had tested deteriorates Kiphire reports 1st COVID-19 STATUS ACTIVE CASES positive for COVID through

NEW DELHI, AUG 19 (IANS): Former President Pranab Mukherjee’s health condition deteriorated on Wednesday as he developed lung infection, the Army Research and Referral Hospital said. He has been hospitalized for the past nine days and been on ventilator support following a brain surgery.

The hospital authorities said, “There has been a decline in the medical condition of Hon’ble Shri Pranad Mukherjee as he has developed features of lung infection.”

The authorities also stated that the former president continues to be on ventilator support and is currently being managed by a team of specialists.

Earlier in the day, the former president’s son Abhijit Mukherjee said that his father’s condition continued to be stable.

COVID case; 2 more deaths in Dimapur

D I M A P U R , AU G 1 9 (NPN): Nagaland on Wednesday registered 38 fresh COVID-19 cases-- 28 in Dimapur, 7 in Kohima and 1 each in Kiphire and Wokha, taking the tally to 3,588 cases. Out of 3588 cases, as on August 19, 1838 are active, 1706 recoveries, 8 deaths and 6 migrated.

Kiphire district reported its first COVID case since the pandemic hit the state.

A returnee from Andhra Pradesh, lodged at a quarantine centre, had first tested positive through TrueNat on August 17 and the RT-PCR report (BSL-3) which was received on August 19 was positive.

Further, out of the 3,558 positive cases, the distribution across various categories of people include 1,561 cases

District

Asymptomatic

Dimapur 1070 Kiphire 1 Kohima 605 Longleng 0 Mokokchung 2 Mon 72 Peren 14 Phek 0 Tuensang 3 Wokha 3 Zunheboto 65 Total 1835

RecovMiTotal Symptomatic Death ered grated Cases Mild Moderate 0 3 742 1825 8* 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 376 983 0 2 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 0 17 19 0 0 0 0 190 264 0 2 0 0 250 264 0 0 0 0 31 31 0 0 0 0 45 48 0 0 0 0 17 20 0 0 0 0 35 100 0 0 0 3 1706 3558 8 6

*1 death is Covid-19 positive but not due to Covid-19

from the Armed Forces, returnees- 1189, frontline workers- 238, traced contacts- 516 and Others- 54.

2 more deaths reported: Two more COVID-19 related deaths were reported from Dimapur on August 19 at the district COVID-19 hospital.

According to official sources, a 78-year old man who had some health is-

sues, died at the COVID-19 hospital Dimapur at around 5 a.m. The deceased, a resident of Signal basti area, had tested positive for COVID through TrueNat and RTPCR result awaited.

He was earlier admitted to a private hospital and was shifted to the COVID19 hospital on August 19, where he passed away.

Another male (47 years)

TrueNat and RT-PCR result awaited. Sources said that 47-year old, residing at Half Nagarjan area, was admitted to COVID hospital for around 2-3 days after complaining of health issues and died on Wednesday.

With this, the number of deaths (all from Dimapur) rose to 14.

India’s COVID-19 tally climbs to 27,67,273

PTI adds: With 64,531 people testing positive in a day, India’s COVID-19 tally increased to 27,67,273 on Wednesday, while the recoveries crossed the 20-lakh mark pushing the recovery rate to 73.64%, Health Ministry said.

The death toll climbed to 52,889 with 1,092 people succumbing to the disease in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Works underway to restore NH-29 Withdraw draft notification for EIA: NPYC Correspondent

KO H I M A , AU G 1 9 (NPN): Restoration works

by PWD (NH) are currently underway at the Old KMC dumping site on National Highway-29, where a stretch of road had subsided following heavy rainfall in the last few days.

PWD (NH) Kohima executive engineer Neilabeizo Angami told Nagaland Post that unlike previous years, this time the highway was not completely cut off.

However, he said that as part of precautionary measures, the road has been diverted for clearance at the sinking site.

He informed that the highway was still pliable, but due to traffic congestion in the affected area, which hampered machinery works, the road has been diverted for some time.

In this regard, the en-

Work in progress at Old KMC dumping site sinking area NH-29. (NP)

gineer has appealed to the public to adhere to the new traffic rules issued by the Kohima police.

The engineer said the department was trying its best to clear the road as soon as possible. He said complete restoration of road could take about three days depending on the weather.

The engineer also informed that making the culvert at the sinking area could take some time. The engineer suggested carr ying out

works at sinking area during dry season besides checking the load capacity for heavy vehicles.

It may be mentioned that Kohima Police on Tuesday enforced new traffic regulations in view of the sinking road at old KMC dumping site stretch of NH29. All light vehicles going down towards Dimapur from Kohima and vice-versa has been diverted to Jotsoma by-pass road and no heavy vehicles/buses/commercial

pickup vehicles are being allowed to ply on that route.

Heavy vehicles, buses and commercial pickup vehicles coming up towards Kohima from Dimapur have been diverted to Peducha 10th Mile – Tsiesema route from 5 pm to 6 am.

Also, heavy vehicles and commercial pickup vehicles going down towards Dimapur from Kohima have been directed to take Tsiesema – 10th Mile – Peducha route.

D I M A P U R , AU G 1 9 (NPN): Nagaland Pradesh Youth Congress (NPYC) has demand unconditional withdrawal of the draft notification for Environment Impact Assessment (EIA), 2020 that would supersede the EIA notification of 2006 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

In a representation to Union environment, forests and climate change minister Prakash Javadekar, NPYC president Vilhousielie Kenguruse and general secretary Serangmong Sangtam stated that the notification deserved extensive discussions and that the epidemic situation was not the time for that.

Mentioning that the proposed changes were not guided by environmental concerns but by concerns for corporate sector, the Youth Congress alleged that the policies implemented

by various governments in favour of “neo colonial powers and corporate” had made lives of people miserable as soil, drinking water, seas and forests have been deeply encroached. It said the new draft for EIA 2020 was bound to intensify the crisis.

The representation pointed out that there is a provision for public consultation in existing rules, including a public hearing at which the local community and interested persons can give opinions and raise objections, based on the draft EIA report prepared by experts for any project. And the major change proposed in the existing regulations was the removal of several activities from the purview of public consultation. A list of projects has been included under Category B2, expressly exempted from the requirement of an EIA

(Clause 13, sub cl. 11). Also, coal and non-coal mineral prospecting and solar photovoltaic projects do not need prior environmental clearance or permission in the new scheme.

Further, while India was improving its position in the World Banks Ease of Doing Business Index to rank 63 out of 190 countries in 2020, an improvement of 14 ranks compared to last year, India was ranked poorly at 168 out of 180 countries in the Yale University’s Global Environment Performance Index. This clearly showed that the priority of the Central government was to help business by diluting environmental regulations with serious consequences for the environment and the lives and livelihoods of those dependent on natural resources, the representation alleged.

(Cont’d on p-6) K Y M C

state

2

SCERT Training Annexe building inaugurated

Toshi Wungtung inaugurating the SCERT Training Annexe building on August 19 at Kohima. (DIPR)

LPO appeals GoI to venerate Naga flag, constitution DIMAPUR: While appealing for an early settlement of the protracted “Indo-Naga” political issue, the Lotha Public Organisation (LPO) also urged the GoI to venerate and esteem the Naga flag and constitution as desired

by Naga people because these “two connatural and imprescriptibly” rights are the “heart and soul of the Naga people”.

A press release by Lotha Public Organisation publicity cell, urged upon the prime minister of India to expedite the Naga political solution and “his towering office to play a proactive role at this crucial stage of discussion and negotiations between the GoI and NSCN.” While quoting Narendra Modi’s speech on

the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015 as, “the agreement did not just mark the end of a problem, but the beginning of a new future” and that “today’s agreement is a shining example of what we can achieve when we deal with each other in spirit of equality and respect, trust and confidence”, the Lotha Public Organisation further urged GoI to anticipate, respect and adhere the Framework Agreement with letter and spirit.

Lotha Public Organisation also asserted that, the core issue of Naga flag and constitution as predilection by the Naga people will positively foster a clear message and manifestation of pride and identity to the Nagas.

nagalandpost.com Poll

Naga Hoho appeals tribal bodies and NPGs to bury differences DIMAPUR: While urging the international community to support, recognize and promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies, the Naga Hoho also appealed all the tribal bodies and Naga political groups “to bury our differences and come forward to achieve our common goal.”

A press release by Naga Hoho president, H. K. Zhimomi and general secretary, K. Elu Ndang lauded the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) for the resolution adopted on August 3, 2020. While the resolution highlighted positive instances where self-determination issues have been addressed with

DIMAPUR: Deputy commissioner Peren, Sentiwapang Aier has informed that total restriction on inter-district movement has further been extended for a period of 1 (one) week, from August 20 to 26. According to DIPR report, transportation of central/state construction workers and materials shall be permitted after obtaining necessary permit from the concern authority; Government servants on official duty shall be exempted provided they produce valid identity proof; Movement of commercial vehicles carrying essential commodities shall be permitted with necessary permit from the concern authority from respective sub-divisions; All restriction on movement of public and vehicles except medical and other emergencies shall be permitted and shall continue to be in force till further order.

Zbto Bn assists in recovery of vehicle DIMAPUR: Zunheboto Battalion of Assam Rifles assisted in recovery of a Bolero vehicle that had slide off-road at Laghilato Colony, Zunheboto on August 19.

Troops assisted in recovery of the vehicle, according to PRO HQ IGAR (N).

12th DEATH ANNIVERSARY

of our beloved Lt. P. Peiningbe Zeliang

Naga lad invents device for maintaining social distancing

all concerns, the NH stated that the plenary session of the XV general assembly on August 2, 2020 took full cognizance, support and acknowledges the “IndoNaga” peace process. It stated that, the UNPO “supports the peaceful solution for the Indo-Naga issue which is just, long lasting, honorable and acceptable to both the sides; calls upon the international community to appeal to India to fulfil its commitments in the framework agreement; and urges India to repeal acts such as the Armed Forces Special Powers Act and the Disturbed Area Act which overly militarize the situation facing the Naga people.”

(Left to Right) O. Jungio and the compact device for social distancing.

Total restriction of inter-district movement extended in Peren

DIMAPUR: Naga engineering graduate has invented a compact yet effective device to help people maintain social distancing while in public and also during quarantine.

O Jungio, an engineering graduate from National Institute of Engineering (NIE), Mysore who hails from Wokha said the device is as compact as a plastic playing card cover and uses a microcontroller (Arduino nano), an ultrasonic sen-

sor, a battery-switch unit, LEDS and some resistors, and a buzzer.

Explaining how the device functions, O Jungio said the pitch of the buzzer when set off along with the frequency of the led blinking varies corresponding to the breached distance.

For closer ranges, the device emits a slow pulsating blinking along with an alarm-esque buzzer tone while for distances too close for comfort or safety

it emits a high pitched buzzer tone along with more frequent LED blinking.

The “trigger distance” is coded into the microcontroller which upon breach, as sensed by the ultrasonic sensor, switches on the corresponding “LED + buzzer routine”. Jungio had earlier invented automatic hand wash dispenser and he has also authored a book titled “Kalopsia” published by Penthrill publication.

NCD installation programme DIMAPUR: Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) installation programme for new councilors will be held on August 22, 9 a.m at council conference hall,

N.L Road Dimapur. All the councilors and 2 new members nominated by the respective tribal hoho/

union Dimapur along with tribal presidents have been requested to attend the programme.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

14.08.1958 – 20.08.2008

Time slips by and life goes on.

But from our hearts You're never gone.

We think about you always, We talk about you too, We have so many memories But we wish we still had you.

Loving wife and children

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We, the family of Late Imti Jamir, son of Late Rev. Longkok (Aliba Village) would like to thank each and every individual for your selfless contribution during our recent bereavement.

Loving family members.

LATE T. RONGSENMEREN PONGEN (LONGSA) Born : 14.12.1985 – Died : 10.08.2020

Died on : 12/08/2020

2ND DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Q.:Does Nagaland need more committed doctors or infrastructure for good health care system?

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

two-way audio and video conference which can save a lot of time and energy.

Director informed that for any assistance requiring for Edusat and recording studio, the department will lend a helping hand to any NGOs and other related department.

Principal secretar y School Education & SCERT, Menukhol John inaugurated the commission of SCERT Nagaland EDUSAT and telecasting studio. There was also the inauguration of conference hall and screening of three short films on Naga values and motifs by state mission director Samagra Shiksha, Kevilenuo Angami which was produced by the department of SCERT.

DP-3492

ered without any disparity between the rural and the urban. He also said that with the advancement of science and technology the teaching standard needed to be updated for which the SCERT department has huge responsibilities. He maintained that with the commissioning of Edusat in Nagaland it will bring an improvement in imparting quality education for the teachers through interaction.

Director SCERT, T. Sekhose in his introductory speech said that satellite communication technology using Edusat was a strong tool for the development of distance education with interactive learning using

DP-3509

DIMAPUR: Advisor of SCERT, IPR and Village Guards, Toshi Wungtung inaugurated the newly constructed SCERT Training Annexe building at Kohima on August 19.

According to DIPR report, inaugurating building annexe which can accommodate 55 trainers with all facilities, the advisor said that it was a long cherished dream especially for those trainers who face accommodation problem during the training period. He informed the officials that it should serve exclusively to meet the demands of the educational sector in the state. Toshi said for quality improvement in education every citizen has to be cov-

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

We the bereaved family of Late T. Rongsenmeren Pongen would like to express our heartfelt and profound gratitude to all the friends, neighbours, DABA, Longsa Senso Telongjem, Dimapur and well-wishers, who stood by us physically, financially, morally and shared our grief and pain at the sudden demise of our beloved son.

We deeply regret our inability to thank each and everyone personally for your immense support, but pray that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Loving mother, sister & family members DP-3517

of Late Mrs Evom Phom

Late M. Lepzuk, Anaki Village We the loving family members of Late M. Lepzuk would like to thank each one who supported us during his prolonged illness till his demise on 16th August 2020.

Though we could not thank each one in person we thank and pray that the Almighty bless each one abundantly.

Loving wife, children and family members.

DP-3516

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

20TH AUGUST 2020

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end.”

Lamentations 3:22

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A

B

A More doctors.

B More infrastructure.

C Can’t Say.

C

31% 69% 0%

Next poll

T. Lithriba Sangtam

Q: Should lockdown be

Died on : 15/08/2020

extended in Nagaland since COVID cases are rising?

LATE B. NAROLA WALLING 07.11.1932 – 16.08.2020

August 20

(Temperature in ºC) Max Agartala Mostly cloudy with a downpour 30 Aizawl Mostly cloudy with showers 26 Guwahati A stray afternoon t-storm 30 Imphal 25 Heavy afternoon showers Itanagar A morning t-storm in spots 30 Shillong A stray afternoon t-shower 24 Kohima A shower and t-storm around 25 Dimapur A stray afternoon t-storm 31 Mkg Thunderstorms, mainly early 27 Tuensang Mostly cloudy with a t-storm 20 Wokha A shower and t-storm around 26 Zunheboto Couple of thunderstorms 24

K Y M C

Min 25 20 25 21 22 18 18 24 19 15 21 17

Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.

– Psalms 30:5

We miss you a little more each time we hear your name We miss our times together, the beautiful memories we built.

But nothing fills the emptiness, now you are no longer here.

Two long years it has been since you left us.

But we have so many precious memories, to last our whole life through.

Each one of them reminders of how much we’re missing you.

DP-3520

We offer our heartfelt thanks to the many families, neighbours, well wishers and church members, attended the burial service. And who provided emotional and practical support for us at this difficult time. We are truly grateful.

A mother’s heart is an ocean of love, affection and eternal devotion. Nothing can ever fill the void your absence has created but knowing that you are at peace in our heavenly abode gives us solace. We will endeavour to carry on your legacy by following your exemplary Christian life.

Please know that you are deeply loved, forever missed and always remembered.

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who stood by us despite the distressing situation caused by the pandemic.

A special word of thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of CIHSR for their kindness and respect shown at all times.

To those who helped in any way, your contribution made loss more bearable. Though we are unable to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

Loving children, grandchildren and in-laws.

DP-3508

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say. WEATHER FORECAST

The family of the Late T. Lithriba Sangtam wishes to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gesture of kindness shown to us following our sad loss.

From your Loving family.

K-1318

May God bless each and everyone richly.

Loving Wife, Son, Daughters, In-laws and Grand Children K Y M C

AASU, AJYCP look to form political parties

Guwahati, Aug 19 (PTI): The AASU and AJYCP on Wednesday set up a committee of eminent citizens to suggest the two organisation’s future course of action, a step towards their much talked about political entry ahead of the state polls early next year.

Addressing a joint press conference here, the top leaders of the influential All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chhatra Parishad (AJYCP) announced that the 18-member ‘Assam Advisory Committee’ will fix the academic, social, economical and political discourse in order to protect the future of the indigenous people of the state.

The move comes a week after AASU, which was a part of the Centre’s high-level committee on Clause 6 of Assam Accord, released the “confidential” report, saying that the public has the right to know the contents after more than five months of submitting it officially.

“This committee will give us suggestions on what should be the future course of action of the two organisations. The only regional force AGP has joined hands with

Dipanka Kumar Nath (File)

BJP and sacrificed Assam’s interest,” AASU president Dipanka Kumar Nath said.

To serve the indigenous people of the state, AASU and AJYCP approached some prominent citizens of Assam and they agreed to become a part of the committee, he said.

The committee will have eminent litterateur and former Rajya Sabha member Nagen Saikia, and Padma Shree awardee and writer-journalist Arup Kumar Dutta as the members, he said.

The other prominent members are former Meghalaya governor Ranjit Shekhar Mooshahary, who was also the director-general of NSG, BSF and DGP of Kerala, and National Award-winning filmmaker Jahnu Barua, also a Padma Bhushan awardee, among others, he added.

Environmentalist and former Gauhati University professor Krishnagopal Bhattacharya and former professor of Handique Girls’ College Basanta Deka have been named as the convenors of the committee, Saikia said.

Along with them, the general secretaries of AASU and AJYCP, Lurinjyoti Gogoi and Palash Changmai, will function as the coordinators for the initial activities of the committee, he said.

When asked specifically if the students’ body was entering the political arena, AASU chief advisor Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharya said, “The non-political nature of AASU and AJYCP will remain. Now, what we can do being in AASU, that will be advised by this committee.”

The AASU and AJYCP leaders along with those from Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) have been separately making public statements about forming new political parties since the movement against the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Act began last year.

Senior journalist and Rajya Sabha member Ajit Kumar Bhuyan, who was backed by opposition Congress and AIUDF, recently

Mizoram registers 45 fresh COVID-19 cases Aizawl, Aug 19 (PTI): Forty-five more people, including three Army jawans, have tested positive for COVID-19 in Mizoram, taking the northeastern state’s tally to 860 on Wednesday, a health official said.

Two of the new patients have no travel history, he said. Twenty-one fresh infections were reported in

Aizawl district, 14 in Kolasib, six in Lawngtlai, three in Mamit and one in Lunglei, the official said. Fourteen truck drivers hailing from other states are also among the new patients, he said, adding all the patients are asymptomatic. The fresh infections have pushed the number of active cases in the state to 481, while 379

people have recovered from the disease so far, the official said. A total of 27,388 samples have been tested for COVID- 19 till Tuesday, with a positivity rate of 3.14 per cent, he said.

T h e r e c ove r y r a t e among the COVID-19 patients in the state stands at 44 per cent, the official added.

DTF review meeting held in Noklak

DC of Noklak along with other DTF on COVID-19 at the review meeting on August 19. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Noklak District Task Force (DTF) on COVID-19 held a review meeting at DC’s conference hall on August 19, chaired by deputy commissioner, Noklak, Reny Wilfred.

According to DIPR report, the house deliberated on the institutional quarantine, COVID-19 Care Centre, urgent requirement of TrueNat machine, requirement relevant drugs, safety kits etc. various other issues

relating to the SOPs to be followed and activities to be taken up.

Meeting was attended by the members of DTF, representatives from TPRO, all wards under Noklak town, Bazaar Union and also from Noklak, Kusong, Nokyan and Nokyan ‘B’ villages.

DC also paid a visit to Noklak and Nokyan villages and was appraised of the problems faced by

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Northeast/ State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

the villagers. He said that he would be visiting all villages under Noklak district in good time. Noklak being the newly created district of Nagaland, he advised the people to be peace loving citizens for bringing in proper development for the benefit of the people.

DC was accompanied by SDO (C) Noklak, C. Phuniang, EACs and frontal tribal organisation leaders.

floated an entity -- ‘Anchalik Gana Morcha’ (AGM) -- to fight the Assembly polls, slated for MarchApril next year.

Former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Tuesday announced that Congress is working to form a ‘Grand Alliance’ of non-BJP parties, including the AIUDF, Left and AGM, to oust the Sarbananda Sonowal-led government.

However, he said the AASU-led new entity will not be a part of it.

Lurinjyoti Gogoi said the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which was formed following the AASU-led Assam Agitation of the early ‘80s, betrayed the expectations of the people.

“Since Independence, the Assamese people have been facing injustice. Our natural resources are being looted and the people are exploited. All national parties have worked against the interest of the state,” the AASU leader alleged.

Gogoi said that during the anti-CAA movement, people from across the state asked AASU and AJYCP to “do something” to protect the interest of the local people and work for Assamese culture, language and identity.

A J YC P p r e s i d e n t

Rana Pratap Baruah said that a joint state convention was planned for deciding the political roadmap of the two organisations, but it was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Then the executive committees of AASU and AJYCP decided to form this committee. We will move ahead as per the suggestions of this committee,” he said.

On August 11, AASU released the Centre’s highlevel committee’s report on Clause 6 of Assam Accord, a move that was criticised by the ruling BJP as a ploy to further the student group’s political ambition.

The report, among other things, seeks “declared foreigners” to be settled outside the state.

It also wants sealing of the entire IndiaBangladesh border and reservation of almost all of the state’s parliamentary seats for the local people, and the creation of a legislative council.

As per Clause 6, Constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards, as may be appropriate, shall be provided to protect, preserve and promote the culture, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people.

Malik takes charge as Meghalaya governor

Satya Pal Malik being administered the oath of office as Governor by Chief Justice Justice Biswanath Somadder at Raj Bhavan on Wednesday night. (NP)

Correspondent SHILLONG, AUG 19: Satya Pal Malik, who was transferred from Goa and appointed as Gover nor of Meghalaya by President RamNath Kovind on Tuesday, took charge at the Raj Bhavan, Shillong on Wednesday night.

He was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court, Justice Biswanath Somadder.

Malik replaced Tathagata Roy who completed his five-year gubernatorial tenure in May this year, but had continued to be in office on extension.

This is Malik’s third transfer in the past one year.

In fact, Malik’s tenure in Goa was marked with differences of opinion with Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant in handling of the COVID situation in the coastal State, besides opposing Goa government’s plan for construction of a new Raj Bhavan (governor’s house) “as irrational and imprudent” when the State is battling COVID-19 and reeling under financial crises.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by chief minister Conrad K. Sangma, Speaker Metbah Lyngdoh, Justice Hamarsan Singh Thangkhiew, Justice Wanulra Diengdoh, Director General of Police R Chandranathan.

236 new cases push Tripura’s COVID-19 tally to 7,663

Agartala, Aug 19 (PTI): Tripura’s COVID19 caseload rose to 7,663 on Wednesday as 236 people tested positive for the infection, while three more fatalities pushed its coronavirus death toll to 65, a health official said.

Three COVID-19 patients, all hailing from

West Tripura district, died due to cardiac arrest at the Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) on Tuesday, he said.

The fresh infections have pushed the number of active cases in the state to 2,083, while 5,497 people have recovered from the disease so far,

State NSACS and DoSE to upload video lessons on AEP DIMAPUR: Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) in collaboration with the department of School Education (DoSE), Nagaland will be uploading video lessons on topics under the Adolescence Education Programme (AEP) from August 20 through social media platforms Facebook and YouTube of DoSE. In a release, project director, NSACS, Dr. K. Vikato Kinimi informed that AEP was a joint initiative by Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), GoI and national AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), GoI to equip every adolescent child between 10 to 19 years with scientific information, knowledge and life skills to protect themselves from HIV infection and manage their concerns pertaining to reproductive and sexual health.

The video lessons will cover five topics namely, aims and objectives of AEP, growing up and adolescent health, mental health and substance abuse, HIV/AIDS and STIs/RTIs and life skills for HIV protection.

Meanwhile teachers and parents of students studying in various schools (government and private) across Nagaland have been requested to encourage the students to view the lessons on YouTube (DoSE Nagaland) and Facebook page (School Education Nagaland/ @DoSENL).

Further, online evaluation on AEP topics through official online evaluation programme initiative of DoSE through the web portal https://dosenl.in will be conducted and prizes will be awarded to the best performing students.

Plantation drive carried out at DGC

A press release by DGC publicity and media cell stated that, Moatoshi Longkumer MLA, Dimapur II A/C, planted an Amaltas Golden Shower, and further towards enhancement of the project, the MLA donated 5000 saplings along with richly documented book titled “Plant resources of Nagaland.”

Addressing the gathering after the plantation drive, Longkumer conveyed sincere appreciation of various initiatives of the college with special mention of “Green Campus Project” which he regarded as one of the best practices of the college. Encouraging the college to capitalize on available resources and advantages, he re-iterated his commitment towards the college.

Principal DGC, Dr. Moanochet Longchar, further acknowledged the MLA for his continued interest towards the development of the college. Programme also featured (Left) Moatoshi Longkumer planting tree sapling along with EBC members on official release of the annual college magazine August 19.

“Pursuit” by the MLA. Programme was DIMAPUR: As part of the ongoing Dimapur Government College (DGC), chaired by IQAC co-ordinator, Dr. Vitsosie “Green Campus Project”, initiative of a tree plantation drive was held DGC Vupru, while vice principal, Alemla Imsong, pronounced vote of thanks.

Eco and Beautification Club (EBC) on August 19.

and 18 patients have migrated to other states, the official said.

Tripura has so far tested 2,28,983 samples for COVID- 19, he added.

The state government has distributed 185 oxygen concentrators among COVID care centres to

provide better care to critical patients, Director of National Health Mission, Tripura, Dr Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal said.

The Health Department will distribute 824 oximeters among COVID19 patients who are in home isolation, another official said.

Mnp MLA recovers from COVID-19

Correspondent

IMPHAL, Aug 19: Md Fazur Rahim, the first and only legislator in Manipur to have been infected by COVID-19 has recovered.

Rahim was among 96 persons discharged after he tested negative on the latest RT PCR test on Wednesday, a report of the COVID-19 Common Control Room stated. He was under home isolation at his residential quarters in Imphal’s Babupara.

The 50-year-old Congress legislator was tested positive upon returning from Delhi on August 10 , following which he skipped a one-day monsoon session of the state Assembly even as his party issued a whip ahead of the recent confidence motion.

Including the MLA, 96 COVID-19 infected persons were discharged on Wednesday upon recovery, the control room added in its latest report.

Of the 96 recoveries, 66 were personnel of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF). The recovery cases in the state rose to 2885 including 340 and the recovery rate stood at 59.16%.

78 new cases were detected in the past 24 hours to take the COVID-19 tally in the state to 4,765. The tally included 1277 CAOF personnel and 1973 were active cases. Of the 55 new cases among the general populace, only seven were returnees from other states while 48 persons contracted the virus despite no significant travel history.

The control room stated that asymptomatic or mild symptomatic persons willing to undergo home isolation were encouraged to do so after consultation with the chief medical officers of their respective districts.

EA purchase organic cabbages from farmers

EA team members during the distribution of cabbage at Kohima. (NP)

procured from the farm- ganic produces from local ers to encourage them to farmers will surely help in KOHIMA, AUG 19 (NPN): As a produce more in coming augmenting their income way towards encouraging the strug- years. The purchase of or- for their livelihood. gling farmers during the pandemic period, the Entrepreneurs Associate (EA) Kohima purchased organic cabbages from 55 farmers of Zhavame village on August 19. The farmers of Zhavame had not been Dear Waza Longchar, able to transport their produces and On this special day, we just want to were compelled to pile them up in say a big thank you God for blessing their fields. us with a beautiful baby and today he The cabbages were beginning turns 1(One). Dear son thank you for to wither and rot and would have providing us so much Bliss and cheergone to waste had it not been pur- fulness in our life. Happy 1st Birthday chased on time. to our little star.

EA member Gracy informed Loving Parents & family members.

Nagaland Post that, 7000 kgs were Correspondent

Sealing of houses and colonies in Kohima

DIMAPUR: ADC Kohima, Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa, has notified that in view of the detection of a COVID-19 positive person residing at D’ Block and Phezoucha colony, Kohima, the areas are demarcated as sealed area in order to contain the spread of the disease/infection and for necessary contact tracing.

According to DIPR report, all movement of person/vehicles within the defined sealed area is strictly restricted/prohibited and under active surveillance with effect from the date of sealing. Another notification stated that in view of some staff being tested positive for COVID-19 infection, K.P. Bethesda Hospital at PR Hill, near PHQ junction has been sealed with immediate effect to contain the spread of the disease/infection and for necessary contact tracing. Notification also stated that till such time the sealing notification is officially lifted, Out Patient Department (OPD) and other Medical related activities/functions of the hospital are strictly restricted. All movement of person within the sealed area is prohibited.

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 255 Dimapur, THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

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The do-able

fter the sole opposition the Naga People’s Front(NPF) decided to sever its association with the Joint Legislature Forum(JLF), formed with the declared purpose of acting as facilitator for pursuit of a permanent settlement to the Naga political issue; two things could happen- the ruling PDA coalition convince NPF to return back in the interest of the people or the Forum become redundant. According to a press communiqué issued by the NPF legislature, the party felt that continuing as part of the JLF did not serve any purpose due to alleged “trust deficit” of the ruling party on the NPF. The opposition claimed that resolutions at JLF meetings were not followed up and that its proposals went unheeded. The incoherence in the JLF as per the NPF, was attributed to the disinclination of the ruling party to take the opposition on board over various matters. This raises a pertinent question on whether legislators as facilitators under another nomenclature such as JLF, actually serves the specific purpose of making any impact on the progress of the negotiations? Could not the legislators have otherwise done so on the floor as members of the house and why a house session cannot be convened to discuss the issue since legislators insist that it is the top most in the agenda of the Naga people?

From past outcomes, much has been discussed and ultimately, the resolutions are in the form of appeals on all to unite for peace and then another urgent appeal on the government of India to bring an early solution that it honourable and acceptable to all sections of Naga society. Also even in the past delegations have met with central leaders to apprise them of the issue and strongly urge upon them to bring an early solution. What had probably been the last straw for the NPF, was the recently concluded 6th session of the 13th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA). NPF had requested the Speaker to allocate one day each to discuss the Naga political issue, COVID-19 and SARFAESI Act, 2002 but it was turned down. Consequently, the NPF boycotted the one-day 6th session on August 13,2020. Highlighting the reasons for boycotting the session, opposition leader and former chief minister T.R.Zeliang lamented that attending the session solely for the purpose of making obituary reference and passing of government Bills did not make any sense when the state was confronted with numerous issues. He said the NPF MLAs had submitted a list of 29 questions, of which only 12 questions were admitted for the session. The two decisions made by the NPF - boycott of the 6th session and the withdrawal from JLF- are significant as they seem to suggest a non-confidence with the current dispensation. Viewed from another perspective, the NPF may be accused of trying to score brownie point through the two decisions. However, in politics every issue is an opportunity to sway public opinion. Even if the NPF had attended the one-day session, its members would not have been able to put the government in the dock over matters raised through starred questions due to the paucity of time. As commented in this column on several occasions, legislators have been elected to effect good governance and fulfil their pledge and so it is time they refocus their attention and doing so will contribute towards peace and progress.

DailyDevotion Self-Awareness

Come to Me… —Matthew 11:28

God intends for us to live a well-rounded life in Christ Jesus, but there are times when that life is attacked from the outside. Then we tend to fall back into self-examination, a habit that we thought was gone. Self-awareness is the first thing that will upset the completeness of our life in God, and self-awareness continually produces a sense of struggling and turmoil in our lives. Self-awareness is not sin, and it can be produced by nervous emotions or by suddenly being dropped into a totally new set of circumstances. Yet it is never God’s will that we should be anything less than absolutely complete in Him. Anything that disturbs our rest in Him must be rectified at once, and it is not rectified by being ignored but only by coming to Jesus Christ. If we will come to Him, asking Him to produce Christ-awareness in us, He will always do it, until we fully learn to abide in Him. Never allow anything that divides or destroys the oneness of your life with Christ to remain in your life without facing it. Beware of allowing the influence of your friends or your circumstances to divide your life. This only serves to sap your strength and slow your spiritual growth. Beware of anything that can split your oneness with Him, causing you to see yourself as separate from Him. Nothing is as important as staying right spiritually. And the only solution is a very simple one— “Come to Me….” The intellectual, moral, and spiritual depth of our reality as a person is tested and measured by these words. Yet in every detail of our lives where we are found not to be real, we would rather dispute the findings than come to Jesus.

Quotes I’d rather have roses on my table than diamonds on my neck. ~ Emma Goldman

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

Post-mortem

The case of he said, she said; R. N. Ravi and NSCN-IM

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n 12th August 2020, an article by MIP-NSCN/GPRN was published in our local dailies accusing the interlocutor, Mr. R. N. Ravi, of “misdoings.”

The article begins by stating that the present peace talks “...has come down in the modern history as the most high profile peace process in Southeast Asia...” Now this is quite a big claim being made by the MIP-NSCN/ GPRN, but if one looks into history or into other conflicts of similar nature in other parts of Southeast Asia, we will find that the Indo-Naga political talks is insignificant when compared to other high profile cases of the Karen, Shan, Kachin, Chin, and Taang people’s movement for self-determination and independence in Myanmar; or the secessionist movements in Southern Thailand and in the Mindanao region in the Philippines. I do hope that MIP-NSCN/GPRN will do a more thorough research on history as well as on other civil conflicts within Southeast Asia before making such unsubstantiated and fabricated claims.

The article also published a minor and insignificant section of the Framework Agreement. What was published as the Framework Agreement, as stated by the MIP-NSCN/GPRN, is only the title and the introduction (or a preface) to the agreement. It is by no means the Framework Agreement. Rather it is only the preamble/ introduction to the framework agreement, which is insignificant as it details nothing of the important terms and condition of the peace process. The contents, the qualification, terms and condition agreed upon by the signatories are not made public as these are still under wraps.

The most important concern, however, is the very title of the Framework Agreement. The title reads: “Framework Agreement between the Government of India (GoI) and the National Socialist Council of NAGALAND.” I have put “Nagaland” in capital letters to bring readers’ attentions to the significance of this specific word. As the title suggests, the word used is Nagaland, not NAGALIM. This reveals how we are being misled and intentionally misinformed by those who allegedly claim to represent

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our interest.

We all know that term NAGALIM generally refers to the entire Naga inhabited regions (including its ancestral domain) in Myanmar and across the four North-eastern states. In other words, the term itself signifies the Naga NATION. Nevertheless, India will never recognize any group of nations as a nation within its territory. At the most it will acknowledge the uniqueness of history and culture, since India is still insecure about the diversities that comprise its union. Thus, the key legal term printed in the Framework Agreement is not Nagalim, but NAGALAND, which is the legally recognized entity/state with defined boundaries and territory under the sovereignty of the Indian Constitution. To be very clear and specific, it simply means the issues of Naga integration and sovereignty are off the table and with it the issues of flag and constitution. After all, if there is no sovereignty and no integration, the question of separate flag and constitution does not even arise. When the NSCN-IM signed the Framework Agreement, they knew very well what they were signing and the consequences of their consent; they knew what were ditching. NSCN-IM should have protested to these provisos and should have informed the people; unfortunately they and, even NNPGs, instead chose not to and, what is worst, we believed them.

As mentioned in many of my articles published in our local dailies, as well as in newspapers in Assam and Manipur, that one of the conditions for GoI to come into talks with NSCN-IM or NNPGs was the renunciation of integration and sovereignty issue.

And when the Naga Political Groups agreed to abandon these issues, the framework was signed with IM, and ‘Agreed Position’ with NNPGs. This is why the title is a dead giveaway that integration and sovereignty are already compromised. Both NSCN-IM and NNPGs must now speak the reality of what is given up and what we can practically and realistically expect.

Mr. R. N. Ravi has been quite adamant about the fact that any final agreement to the peace process will be done within the confines of the Indian Constitution. Thus,

the term “Nagaland” is printed in the title of the agreement’s preamble/introduction (since the term ‘Nagalim’ is not legally recognized within the realms of the Indian Constitution). So, when R. N. Ravi has said “this can be understood even by class VII students that it means acceptance of the Indian Constitution,” he actually was speaking the truth. There is no reason to be offended with this remark made by the interlocutor for it is evidently clear from the title of the agreement.

It is also significant to understand by now that R. N. Ravi is appointed, as a special emissary of the Prime Minister and answerable to India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, to attain GoI’s interest, not the Nagas. That is his job, as such there is no point complaining about the manner in which he attains India’s objectives. This is why he was also appointed as Nagaland’s Governor to uphold India’s constitution since the state mechanisms had difficulty executing its functions per the law of the land. I do hope this simple diagram will explain lots of interesting events that have occurred since Ravi took charge as the Governor of Nagaland: Ravi = Interlocutor = Governor = Indian Constitution = India’s Interests.

Another significant point is that the title does not mention NSCN (IM) or (K) or (U) or (R), etc. Rather it only mentions “National Socialist Council of Nagaland,” which means that the GoI can sign and finalize the settlement with any group, and that settlement (with which ever group/s) will be deemed as a final settlement about the Naga political saga, full stop. Therefore, there is no reason why the GoI must sign and deal with only one group either IM or NNPGs, etc. Ravi can go and sign with as many splintered-groups as there are in Nagaland and who ever cooperates, benefits. Furthermore, after the settlement, if any groups continue to struggle for the settled issues, they will be officially dealt per criminal law (i.e. “armed gangs,” etc.) and treated as law and order issues (which it already has). In other words, once the agreement is signed, even the NNPGs unrealistic claim about pursuing for Naga integration, sovereignty, etc. through

Nagas in a changing world

hat follows is an adapted version of an earlier reflection shared on the 50th Anniversary celebration of the Naga Student Union Bangalore (NSUB).

Bangalore has tremendously changed in every aspect of life, not least in the exponential population growth and the entrepreneurial initiatives especially in the IT sector. The history and experience of Nagas in the city is not different. We have seen growth in numbers and we note the excellent talents participate in different aspects of the city – economy, education, entrepreneurship etc.

Apart from students, today, the city is home to many Naga migrants contributing to the different layers of the economy of the city. During the Golden Jubilee celebrations, we heard memorable recollections from former members of NSUB – notably from a current public leader, who recounted his ‘advocacy’ for Advanced English as a subject and his participation in a national parade representing Mysore State (the renaming of the state as Karnataka was in 1973).

Occasions like golden jubilee also beckon us to reflect towards the future as a people sharing a vision of common good and flourish.

We are living in a time of unprecedented changes, even as the global pandemic Covid-19 has shaken the security of economy and the fragmented progress made often oblivious to the fragility of the ecosphere of life.

Undoubtedly, the explosion of technology has transformed every aspect of life – communication, health, education, economy, even personal spirituality among others. We are living in the Anthropocene age, inaugurated by humanity’s thirst for progress, and control of the whole creation. The Anthropocene period has seen revolutions that have radically transformed humanity. In the words of historian-academic Yuval Noah Harari, “We have mastered our surroundings, increased food production, built cities, established

empires and created far-flung trade networks….we have made real progress as far as human condition is concerned, with the reduction of famine, plague and war.”

(Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind) The tremendous changes have also ushered in immense challenges that affect quality life and contentment and threat to life such as the global pandemic of Covid-19 poses to the whole humanity. The signs of times today are marked by some the following realities: migration of labourers to urban centres (and the return to villages as impacts of Covid19 uncertainties), growing wealth amidst unprecedented inequalities (according to an Oxfam report 26 billionaires own global wealth as much as the poorest 50% of the world’s population), an uncertain time for the way wealth is created (capitalism), the environmental crisis (as has been brought to global attention in the recent time by the Swedish teenager – Greta Thunberg), an impending health crisis caused by resistance to antibiotics, food insecurity, rising nationalist politics (often anchored on a regressive interpretation of religions), growing consciousness of minorities, rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with potential threat to labours (especially unskilled), threat of bio-chemical disaster and new strains of global pandemic.

Sketching the signs of times situates a reflection towards the future that should take into account the present realities.

The giant leap of progress humanity has made is not without the darker side of threat to life and the whole creation. Again Yuval Harari sums up “we are more powerful than ever before, [but]… humans seems to be more irresponsible than ever…. we are accountable to no one. We are consequently wreaking havoc on our fellow animals and on the surrounding ecosystem, seeking little more than our own comfort and amusement, yet never finding satisfaction.” (Sa-

piens: A Brief History of Humankind).

Human selfishness and insatiable greed have not been overcome in the progress we have made.

Nagas also inhabit the modern world with all its promises as well as the malaise. Our reflection and action towards the future as a people should be anchored in the knowledge of the changes and challenges of the time.

Another marked reality of modern Nagas is the invariable location of our history and culture on the resourceful mountains between ancient civilizations and modern rising global powers. Naga people reflection towards a future of confidence and flourish of every member should begin with this awareness of our strategic location and history as a people of the mountains that hold the land and its resources as sacred to be respected and stewarded for the next generation.

With this as backdrop, Nagas in a changing world need to be aware of four defining marks as a people: Land, Religion (Christianity/ Church), Gender, and Education. While the challenges before the Nagas are not limited to these four, these four areas are related and are crucial to the flourish of the people.

“When the last tree is cut, the last river poisoned, and the last fish dead, we will discover that we can’t eat money” is a saying from the Cree (First Nations people of Canada). Development, progress and wealth need to be balanced with sustainable stewardship of the land of our ancestors. If we bargain with our land today, our children will be landless victims tomorrow.

Experience of Christianity and the role of the church among the Nagas is complex.

Christianity initiated us towards the modern agents we are today, enabled to participate in the global world. And Christianity in its prophetic tradition can transform us to a just and flourishing society.

Christianity that is critical of materialism as idolatry and Christianity that embraces

the strange and the unfamiliar in a radical love remains resourceful to inspire Nagas towards a just society.

If Naga society today is seen as a society with high literacy rate with women in every profession, it is because Naga women were not curtailed in acquiring the education Christian missionaries introduced. In fact, among some Naga tribes, women made up the first students of the informal learning class held by wives of missionaries. As Naga ancestors took the nascent step towards modernization, they were broad-minded in ensuring women to be educated and partake in modern professions. Equal participation of women in every aspect of Naga society stands to gain the whole Naga society.

Nagasare known for acquiring education, which is evident today in the many young Nagas contributing in diverse sectors of the country – higher education, IT, central services, research, etc. Education that nurtures critical consciousness, builds character, equips for global participation, and helps cultivate virtues for the common good are the need of today.

Nagas in a changing world are called to collaborate, beyond one’s familiar network and immediate relationship. Artificial barriers created by vested interests are challenges to the flourish of Naga people. Nagas in a changing world need to cross the boundaries we have constructed to our own detriment. Our history and destiny is our own, we need to deliberately construct a future that is inclusive, and flourishing for all, rising above selfishness.

In 1955Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat in the bus, an action that mobilized the Montgomery Bus Boycott during the Civil Rights movement in America. “Tired of giving in” Rosa Parks ignited a movement of freedom from segregation. Freedom and the good life we envision as Nagas. May we leave meaningful footprints and may God guide us with his eternal wisdom.

Atola Longkumer, Bangalore

democratic process will be seen by GoI and the State Government as “criminal” activities carried out by “armed-gangs.” Hence, the NNPGs must also make its stand clear and specific on this issue, rather remaining quiet.

Therefore, the complaint on omission of the “new” from the framework is insignificant, given that some of the fundamental demands (such as sovereignty, integration, etc.) have been given up, technically, when IM signed the Framework Agreement and the NNPGs signed the ‘Agreed Position.’

Moreover, the commotion on “competency” is just an excuse for miscalculating R. N. Ravi, who has managed to sideline NSCN-IM. The “competency” basically means that the signatories declare that each has fully participated in the negotiation of the Agreement by carefully reading and reviewing its terms and conditions (and if so desired, consult with legal consul since each has been given the opportunity to do so), and that each agrees to it for the purpose of making a full and final settlement/concession/solution to all matters/issues referenced in the agreement. There is no confusion here that NSCN-IM signed having fully participated in the agreement by carefully reading and reviewing (as they were well aware of the proviso) its terms and conditions (i.e. ditching integration/Nagalim) and agreed to (i.e. by signing the Framework Agreement by IM and Agreed Position by NNPGs) it for the final settlement. Hence, it seems NSCN-IM is trying to backtrack by modifying the “competency” clause, which they had agreed to when they signed the Framework Agreement; while the NNPGs is staying quiet hoping the general public will not notice what they have done.

These are some of my humble estimations, as a citizen, about our current predicament and I do hope to be proven wrong. I urge readers to prudently examine where we are heading and the kind of society we want to leave behind for the coming generations because the Framework Agreement is shaping to be one of the watershed moments in Naga Political Saga.

Salikyu Sangtam, Diphupar, Dimapur

How soon will we have a COVID-19 vaccine?

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e would all like to see a vaccine very quickly, but many medical experts shook their heads and publicly disagree.

It is going to be a subject of huge debate and controversy.

A vaccine has never been developed against a Corona Virus, be it for SARS (2003) or MERS (2012).

The average past vaccine development period in the world is approx ten years and the fastest vaccine developed to date has been for mumps (1967), and that took four years. Vaccines normally require years of testing, trial, research, review and additional time to produce at large scale.

Researchers around the world are racing to develop a vaccine against Covid-19, with more than 140 vaccines now tracked by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Apparently, Russian and Chinese Vaccine even if they develop a vaccine as promise by this month or next, may not be globally accepted. It is said that these countries do not follow all safety protocols and regulatory clearance.

Moreover, their research development is not as transparent as the Western, European countries or India for that matter. Why I don’t see a vaccine until first half of 2021?

Different phases of vaccine development are roughly clinical research, Phase I, II, III and Approval.

Even after the final approval (fully proven safe) to administer in small dose, researchers have to observe and closely monitor the human immune response for months to finally approve for huge production and mass vaccination. In addition, recovered patients after vaccination need to expose to the virus and check the ability of immunity and how long the antibodies last. With any new disease, especially one that is proving to be as complex as COVID-19, we will have to move carefully. But scientists are hoping to develop a corona virus vaccine within 12 to 18 months.

While there are promising early results, there’s no guarantee of a vaccine by 2021. Statistically, only about 6% of vaccine researches ever make it through to market.

Nevertheless, never in the history of any virus or disease has such an intense global effort been focused as on the case of corona vaccine. Hopefully, a vaccine is discovered well before time.

Boktiba Jamir, Lengrijan, Dimapur.

Reader’s Post

A tribute to a guardian of our culture The demise of Dr (Guru) I. Sademmeren Longkumer hailing from Ungma Village, Mokokchung District is a big loss for the Ao community and the entire Nagas. We are at this crucial juncture in our history when we need the wisdom and knowledge of elders like him more than ever before. A true guardian of our indigenous knowledge and endowed with God given wisdom, his pioneering work and contribution towards safeguarding our historical traditions and cultural identity has laid the foundation for future generations to build on and take it forward.

As a cultural icon and a legend of his times, the legacy he left behind will continue to teach, guide, and inspire us to celebrate and preserve our rich tradition and culture.

We express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the citizens of Ungma village and the Ao community during this time of your pain and loss.

Joel Naga, Dorothy Chang, Y. Aheto Sumi, Vitho Zao, Amai Chingkhu, Dr. Phyoben Odyuo, Kekhwengulo Lea, Moie Bonny Konyak, on behalf of The Naga Rising

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

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

5

Cabinet clears NRA to conduct common test Heavy rain submerges swathes of Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs the Cabinet meeting via video conferencing, in New Delhi, Wednesday, Aug 19. (PIB/PTI)

NEW DELHI, AUG 19 (PTI): The Union Cabinet Wednesday approved the creation of National Recruitment Agency (NRA) for conducting a common eligibility test for central government jobs, initiating a “landmark reform” in the recruitment process.

Briefing the media on the Cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, I&B Minister Prakash Javadekar said it was a historic decision that will allow job-seekers take one common test and save costs and time spent on writing multiple exams.

This has been a major demand of the youths for many years which has been fulfilled, he said.

Union minister Jitendra Singh termed it a revolutionary and landmark reform in the history of the country.

It will lead to ease of selection, ease of job placement and ease of living, especially for those sections of society that are considered disadvantaged, he said.

This will also help the poor and women who have to travel long distances for taking exams for various jobs, he said.

The NRA will conduct a Common Eligibility Test (CET) to screen/ shortlist candidates for the Group B and Group C (non-technical) posts.

The NRA will have representatives from the Ministr y of Railways, the Ministry of Finance/ Department of Financial Services, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) and the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS).

It is envisioned that the NRA would be a specialist body bringing the state-of-the-art technology and best practices in the field of Central government recruitment, an official statement said.

For now, the scores of the common test will be used by three major recruitment agencies, but other agencies would be included over a period of time.

In the long run, the CET score could be shared with other recruiting agencies in the Central government, state governments/ Union Territories, Public Sector Undertakings and Private Sector, Singh said.

This, he said, would help them save costs and time spent on recruitment.

The government has sanctioned a sum of Rs 1,517.57 crore for setting up the National Recruitment Agency (NRA), which will be headquartered in Delhi.

It will have a chairman of the rank of a Secretary to the government.

The expenditure will be undertaken over a period of three years. Apart from setting up the NRA, the costs will be incurred on setting up examination infrastructure in the 117 aspirational districts, the statement said.

At present, candidates seeking government jobs have to appear for separate examinations conducted by multiple recruiting agencies for various posts even

though they have similar eligibility conditions.

The candidates thus end up paying fee to multiple recruiting agencies and also have to travel long distances for appearing in these exams.

Singh said the initial plan is to set up 1,000 exam centres across the country for conduction this common test.

There will be at least one exam centre in each

district and no candidate will now have to travel out of their district for taking this common exam, he said.

On an average, around 2.5 crore to 3 crore candidates appear in each of these examinations and a common eligibility test would enable them to appear once and apply to any or all of these recruitment agencies for the higher level of examination, he said.

Cabinet approves proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram airports The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal for leasing out airports at Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram through public-private partnership (PPP).

Adani Enterprises had won the rights to run six airports - Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, and Guwahati - through the PPP model after a competitive bidding process in February 2019.

In July 2019, the Union Cabinet had approved the proposal for leasing out the other three airports - Ahmedabad, Mangaluru and Lucknow - to Adani Enterprises.

At a press conference on Wednesday, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said the Cabinet has approved the proposal for leasing out Jaipur, Guwahati, Thiruvananthapuram airports through the PPP model.

Currently, the aforementioned six airports are owned and managed by the government-run Airports Authority of India (AAI).

Eight months after the Cabinet approval, Adani Enterprises signed the concessionaire agreement with the AAI on February 14 this year for operation, management and development of airports at Ahmedabad, Mangaluru and Lucknow.

In June this year, the AAI gave three more months to the Ahmedabad-based company to take over the management of these three airports due to the COVID-19 situation. This means the deadline for take over has been pushed from August 12 to November 12.

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had on Tuesday said that the Ministry of Civil Aviation would place a proposal for “further” privatisation of airports before the Union Cabinet on Wednesday.

Cong to decide WANTED who will work in govt or party: Pilot  Computer Technician

NEW DELHI, AUG 19 (PTI): Incessant rains pummelled the national capital on Wednesday, submerging low-lying areas in waistdeep water and bringing traffic on key roads to a virtual halt.

Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the regional forecasting centre of the India Meteorological Department, said Delhi recorded moderate rains till 5:30 pm.

More rains are likely in the next 24 hours, he said.

The Ayanagar weather station recorded 66 mm rainfall in just nine hours -- from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. On an average, the city gauges 11.3 mm rainfall on August 19 every year.

The Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative figures for the city, recorded 32 mm rains.

The Palam, Lodhi Road, and Ridge weather stations gauged 49.4 mm, 25.1 mm, and 42.7 mm precipitation respectively during the

Vehicles move through waterlogged Hero Honda Chowk after heavy rain, in Gurugram, Wednesday. (PTI)

period. Rainfall recorded below 15 mm is considered light, between 15 and 64.5 mm is moderate and above 64.5 mm is heavy.

Earlier at 10.05 am, the India Meteorological Department issued an alert for heavy rains in the national capital. The downpour may lead to "major traffic disruption" and there is an "increased chance" of road accidents, it warned.

Just a few hours of

rains flooded many streets, turning them into small rivers, as traffic came to a standstill at key stretches.

Public parks in many residential areas resembled swimming pools.

Commuters remained stuck for hours on waterlogged roads.

Pictures and videos of vehicles and people wading through waist-deep water were widely shared on social media.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

DIRECTORATE OF HIGHER EDUCATION NAGALAND : KOHIMA

NO.HED/SCHO-1/2016/

Kohima, dated, the 19th Aug. 2020

NOTIFICATION ON NEC-MERIT SCHOLARSHIP It is hereby informed that Students who intend to apply for Fresh NEC-Merit Scholarship for the session 2020-21 (Previously called NEC-Stipend & Book Grant) may apply the said Scholarship Scheme (Only for fresh applicant) from the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) i.e. https://scholarships.gov.in that has been live from 16th Aug. 2020 to 30th Sept. 2020 as per the directive of the Ministry of Development of North East Council Secretariat, Shillong.

For Renewal cases, students may apply from the State Portal under the Department of Higher Education which will be announced soon in the local media.

DC-483

Sd/Dr. APENI LOTHA DIRECTOR HIGHER EDUCATION NAGALAND : KOHIMA Issued by DIPR

 9615000251

TRADE NOTICE NO. 01/2020

Sachin Pilot

JAIPUR, AUG 19 (PTI): Congress leader Sachin Pilot, who was removed as PCC chief and deputy chief minister last month after a rebellion, on Wednesday said that it is for the party leadership to decide who will work in the government and who will work in the party organisation.

He said a three-member panel been formed by the All India Congress Committee (AICC) to find solutions to all the problems and hoped that the issues will be resolved.

“I thank the Congress president for the prompt action of forming the threemember panel. The committee will do its work and whatever we have to say and listen, we will do that and will get the actions done according to the roadmap that they have prepared,” Pilot told reporters.

The committee was announced last week after a month-long political crisis which started with the rebellion of Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs against the leadership of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.

Pilot, who met the new AICC general secretary incharge for Rajasthan Ajay Maken in Delhi on Monday after his appointment, said that it is the party which decides who will take up what role.

“The works should be done in coordination between the party and the gover nment. The party president, general secretary incharge, members of the committee will hold discussions. The party makes the final decision of who will work in the government and who will work in the party organisation,” he said, adding, that all issues will be discussed by the committee.

DP-3519

K-1291

at MYCO COMPUTER N.L Road, Dimapur

17/08/2020

Sub: Launch of eOffice in the Office of the Commissioner, CGST Dimapur-reg This is for information of all taxpayers that eOffice, an application developed by the National Informatics Centre under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Govt. of India, to carry out office work electronically, has been launched in the Office of the Commissioner, CGST Dimapur. The application is designed to establish a paperless environment in Government offices, increase efficiency, transparency, effectiveness, employee convenience and accountability and to give better services to the taxpayers.

2.

It is expected that adoption of eOffice to carry out office work will bring in its wake an attitudinal shift and awareness and usher in more efficient, effective and transparent inter and intra government transactions. The process will benefit the public in terms of enhanced transparency, increased accountability, assured data security and integrity and is also expected to be a huge transformation in work culture and ethics within the department.

3.

With launch of eOffice, taxpayers are encouraged to utilize electronic means of communication with the Department. In this regard, it may be noted that since e-Office application requires pdf files, it would be convenient if communications / letters sent to the Department by electronic means are in pdf format, better still if they are in searchable mode, for faster processing by the Commissionerate.

4.

Taxpayers are also encouraged to mention their mobile number and email in their communications to facilitate immediate acknowledgement by mail and SMS through the application. They will receive the Diary Number allotted to their communications, which can be used as a reference by them while communicating with the Department in future.

5.

All members of the Trade Associations and Chamber of Commerce in the State of Nagaland are requested to circulate this Trade Notice among their constituent members for wide dissemination. Difficulties faced or suggestions, if any, may be brought to the notice of the undersigned.

(K. Ashi Khieya) Commissioner DC-484

TRADE NOTICE NO. 02/2020

17/08/2020

Sub: Designating official email id of the Office of the Commissioner, CGST Dimapur-reg In continuation to Trade Notice No. 01/2020 Dated 17.08.2020 informing the launch of eOffice - an electronic application to carry out office work electronically - in the Office of the Commissioner, CGST Dimapur, this is for information of all taxpayers, trade and industry that the email id mentioned below has been designated as the official email id and single point of contact of Commissionerate:

cgstdmr.commte-ngl@gov.in

DC-481

Therefore, it is requested that all communication to the Commissionerate may be sent only to the designated email id as above and no other email id. Sending communication on the designated email will ensure that it is invariably attended to by the Commissionerate.

2.

All the members of the Trade Associations and Chambers of Commerce in the State of Nagaland are requested to circulate this Trade Notice amongst their constituent members for wide dissemination. Difficulties faced or suggestions, if any, may be brought to the notice of the undersigned and send to this email id.

(K. Ashi Khieya) Commissioner DC-484

national/state

Navy protects maritime interests: Rajnath

Rajnath Singh and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh in a group photograph during the Naval Commanders’ Conference at Sena Bhawan, New Delhi, August 19. (PTI)

State govt spent over Rs. 17 crore for COVID-19 testing: H&FW dept

mission-based deployments in June 2017 have facilitated enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), provided swift Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) to the Indian Ocean Region littorals and security to the international maritime community.

On the dynamic changes taking place in the armed forces, the Minister highlighted the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff and Department of Military Affairs as major milestones in bringing more

(From p-1) On the difference between the recovery rate and positive cases, the PD said the BSL-2 laboratory ran out of consumables in the last two weeks, while the BSL-3 laboratory ran short of RNA extraction kits that led to a backlog of over 1,000 cases. He however said things were being set in order now.

Dr. Suokhrie warned that anyone trying to deliberately spread falsehood and endangering the life of another would be penalised as per the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897. He appealed to people giving samples for testing to isolate themselves till results were out.

Commenting on the reported death of a person in Dimapur on Wednesday, he said an autopsy committee had been set up to examine the cause of the death. He said after the committee submits its report, it would be examined at the State level and then only will the exact cause would be known.

He said recruitment of doctors was under process and hopefully the result would be declared by next week.

Referring to reports of “meagre salary” being paid to scientists and technicians of BSL-2 laboratory at CIHSR, the principal director said an MoU was signed between CIHSR and the H&FW department under which the latter agreed to bear the salaries of the laboratory staff.

H&FW deputy director Dr. Kika Longkumer, who was also present, informed that private hospitals in Kohima and Dimapur were getting registered for accreditation under National Accreditation Board of Laboratory and, once accredited, they can install TrueNat machines and conduct tests.

He said 15% would be additional charge on maximum retail price of rapid antigen test kits.

On allocating more funds to various districts, Dr. Kika said additional funds would be released based on the statement of expenditure of the previous amount released.

Nodal officer for Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme Dr. Nyan Kikon, who was also present, informed that 12,000 contact tracings have been done till August 17.

Crossword

Su doku

KAKURO

Withdraw draft notification...

(From p-1) According to NPYC, rules in India, including EIA 2006, privileged the interests of the project proponents by whittling down public consultations, accepting flawed and faulty EIA reports resulting from external influences and ignoring non-renewable nature of resources, adding the 2020 notification deepened the impact. Instead of ensuring tighter regulations and strict monitoring and implementation, the youth body said the new draft only weakened the whole process.

Alleging that the draft notification was as per the pro-corporate agenda of the Central government in the name of development, NPYC said the people’s interests or concerns for protection of environment were not the concern of the draft as it gives license for wrong-doing and blatant violations.

Demanding withdrawal of the draft notification, the Congress youth body suggested redrafting it by taking opinion of all stakeholders, which would be in the interest of the environment, the people and the country.

The youth wing of Congress said the EIA 2020 avoided various rulings made by the National Green Tribunal and courts, including Supreme Court, concerning environmental protection, alleging that it was not guided by environmental concerns but for the corporate.

Pointing out that there was mention of terms like Adivasi, tribal, gram sabha, Forest Rights Act, Fifth Schedule, Sixth Schedule and Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, etc, the representation said the draft proposed making the Union environment, forests and climate change ministry the sole authority for appointing appraisal committees.

Further, the draft proposes i) re-categorisation of projects so as to exempt a wide range of projects from the scrutiny of appraisal committees and public consultation; ii) dilution and in some cases elimination of the process of public consultation; iii) post-facto legalization of violations by projects; and iv) gives a number of exemptions/benefits to projects through various clauses.

No. 9660 Yesterday’s solution No. 9659

No. 4279 Yesterday’s solution No. 4278

No. 3203 Yesterday’s solution No. 3202

Across 4. Songbird (6) 7. Great elation (8) 8. Igneous rock (6) 10. Circus entertainer (5) 13. Bludgeon (4) 14. Hawaiian dance (4) 15. Nincompoop (4) 16. Spicy (3) 17. Former Russian emperor (4) 19. A cheese (4) 21. Mineral oil (9) 23. Atmosphere (4) 24. Neck part (4) 26. Ovum (3) 27. Lost blood (4) 29. Sound a horn (4) 32. Conspiracy (4) 33. Difficult question (5) 34. Invisible (6) 35. Calculate roughly (8) 36. Horse’s gait (6) Down 1. Roost (5) 2. Reel (5) 3. Fine soft feathers (4) 4. Forbidden (5) 5. Hurry (4) 6. Rarely (6) 9. Slumbering (6) 11. Drag with effort (3) 12. Liquid for drinking (5) 13. Small crown (7) 15. Distant (3) 16. Pigmeat (3) 18. Steady (6) 20. Because of (3,2) 21. Dog (3) 22. Stripling (3) 23. Schedule (6) 25. Gardening tool (3) 28. One without friends (5) 30. Acting award (5) 31. Attempts (5) 32. Nuisance (4) 33. Bucket (4)

US hands over 2nd shipment of 100 ventilators to India NEW DELHI, AUG 19 (PTI): The US on Wednesday handed over to India 100 ventilators, as part of President Donald Trump’s offer of assistance to New Delhi in the fight against the COVID pandemic.

The ventilators are manufactured in the US and are compact, easy to deploy and provide India with flexibility in treating patients affected by the virus, the US embassy said in a statement.

The US government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), in coordination with the Indian government and the Indian Red Cross Society, donated the second shipment of 100 new, state-of-the-art ventilators to assist India in its fight against COVID, the statement said.

LAND FOR SALE at Toulazouma 100 x 100 # 9402295669

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Sagar’, medical aid was provided to various island countries of southwest Indian Ocean Region -- Maldives, Mauritius, Comoros, Seychelles and Madagascar.

Rajnath Singh also lauded the efforts of all naval commands in setting up of quarantine facilities to aid the civil administration in managing Covid-19.

Talking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), he said that the commencement of

NEW DELHI, AUG 19 (PTI): Giving a quietus to the political and jurisdictional row over investigations into the “unnatural death” of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, the Supreme Court on Wednesday paved the way for a CBI probe into the FIR against actress Rhea Chakraborty, holding that a fair, competent and impartial investigation is the “need of the hour”.

The top court accorded its approval to the ongoing CBI probe after noting both Bihar and Maharashtra are “making acrimonious allegations of political interference against each other” due to which the legitimacy of their investigations has come under a cloud and there is a reasonable apprehension of “truth being a casualty and justice becoming a victim”. “The ongoing investigation by the CBI is held to be lawful.”

“When truth meets sunshine, justice will not prevail on the living alone but after Life's fitful fever, now the

LAND WITH HOUSE

FOR SALE

4th Mile, Naga United Village Near Daily Market Phone : 7085430025

DP-3482

Covid-19 pandemic, he cited the Indian Navy’s biggestever repatriation operation “Operation Samudra Setu”, which has contributed extensively to the national interest.

Despite the difficult sea conditions and the challenges of dealing with an unseen enemy in the form of coronavirus, the Navy was instrumental in bringing home almost 4,000 people from neighbouring countries in the Indian Ocean Region.

Also, under ‘Mission

synergy amongst the three services, especially in training, procurement and staffing and bringing jointness in operations.

He also said accepting the challenges arising out of the Covid-19 situation, the Indian Navy has continued to progress the operational, administrative and modernisation efforts.

Notwithstanding these fiscal challenges, the government has invoked the Emergency Powers to meet the emergent requirements of the services, he added.

On Indian Navy’s proven commitment towa r d s ‘A a t m a n i r b h a r Bharat’ in consonance with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Rajnath Singh appreciated that the Navy has been at the forefront of the indigenisation process. Stressing that it is important that pace be kept with the successes which have been achieved so far, he said that the recentlyinaugurated Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organization (NIIO) is one such step.

SC paves way for CBI probe into ‘unnatural death’ of SSR

LAND FOR SALE Urra Village, Dimapur 3 Puras Contact: 6009260361

K-1317

NEW DELHI, AUG 19 (IANS): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday lauded the Indian Navy for effectively carrying out mission-based deployments in the Indian Ocean Region to protect the maritime interests of the country.

As the three-day Naval Commanders Conference 2020 began here on Wednesday against the backdrop of India and China’s unprecedented three-month-long stand-off at multiple points along the border in eastern Ladakh, the Minister, in his address at its inaugural session, said that the Navy, by deploying ships and aircraft at major and sensitive locations, safeguards interests of the country.

Rajnath Singh complimented the men and women of Navy for their role in protecting the maritime interests and expressed the confidence in the force’s preparedness to meet any challenge through a proactive response in deploying its naval and air assets.

Amid the unprecedented challenge posed by the

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

departed will also sleep well.

Satyameva Jayate(Truth alone triumphs),” a bench headed by Justice Hrishikesh Roy said in a 35-page verdict delivered on a plea by 28year-old Chakraborty, who was Rajput's live-in partner.

She had sought transfer of the FIR filed against her at Patna to Mumbai.

The FIR was filed by the Bihar police on a complaint by Rajput's father K K Singh, who has accused Chakraborty and six others including her parents and brother of abetting the suicide of the actor. Rajput, 34, was found hanging from the ceiling of his apartment in suburban Bandra in Mumbai on June 14 and Mumbai Police has been probing the case after registering only an accidental death report.

The Rajput death case has been marked by highdecibel political statements for and against the CBI probe and also jurisdictional tussle between the Bihar Police and Mumbai police after the FIR was lodged on July

25. A Bihar police team had also visited Mumbai.

Upholding the transfer of the FIR to the CBI, the top court held that the Bihar Police had not committed any illegality in lodging the case at Patna.

The Centre had given its nod for a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) following a recommendation by the JD(U)-BJP government in Bihar. But the Shiv Senaled coalition government that included the NCP and the Congress opposed the CBI probe, saying the Mumbai police was competent enough to carry out the investigations.

In a statement, Chakraborty's lawyer Satish Maneshinde said, “Truth will remain the same whichever agency investigates the case” while Rajput's family lawyer Vikas Singh said the verdict has given impetus to their "quest for justice". It is a victory for the late actor's family and fans, Singh said.

SAINIK SCHOOL PUNGLWA, NAGALAND ALL INDIA SAINIK SCHOOLS ENTRANCE EXAM (AISSEE) – 2020

NOTICE AISSEE-2020, Unfit Candidates opting for Review Medical are requested to contact the office during the office hours (0900 to 1500hrs) on or before 24 Aug 2020.

Contact No(s): 03839-262010/ 9402988735 Sd/Principal Sainik School Punglwa DC-

URGENT : PLOT FOR SALE A PERSONAL RESIDENTIAL PLOT WITH BUILDING AT 4TH MILE DIMAPUR. PRICE NEGOTIABLE.

CONTACT : 7005517587/8132830015

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DP-3511

IN THE COURT OF PRINCIPAL DISTRICT & SESSIONS JUDGE DIMAPUR::NAGALAND NOTICE

S/C. NO. 288/20

NOTICE INVITING CLAIMS/OBJECTIONS OF OTHER CLAIMANT(S) FOR ISSUE OF SUCCESSION CERTIFICATE UNDER PART-1 OF INDIAN SUCCESSION ACT 1925.

Whereas application under Succession Act 1925 for grant of Succession Certificate for the estate/pension benefits of Late Vitoshi Sema has been applied by Shri Shikato Chishi, H/o Late Vitoshi Sema, R/o H.No. 70, Thahekhu Village, Dimapur, Nagaland for possession of: 1. Pension Benefits 2. SBI A/C No. 30031144976 Notice is hereby given that any person having interest in the administration of the estate/pension benefits of the said decease may if she/he so desire appear in this court on or before the said day of 17th Sept., 2020.

Given under the hand and seal of the court on this the 17th August 2020.

PRINCIPAL DISTRICT & SESSIONS JUDGE DIMAPUR::NAGALAND

DP-3512

Regd. No. M259/2017

AFFIDAVIT

Date 22/04/2017

I, Smti. Narola Sophie, wife of Shri. Kevithuto Sophie & D/o. Lanuteka Longkumer, presently residing at H.No. 001, Chutsolie Colony, Ward No 9, Chumukedima, Dimapur Dist., Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm and declare on oath as under:1. That, I am a bonafide and law abiding citizen of India resident at the aforementioned address.

2. That, after married with my husband Shri. KEVITHUTO SOPHIE, I used my name as "Narola Sophie", which is entered in some of my official documents.

3. That, in my educational records my name was entered and recorded as "Narola Longkumer".

4. That, I am swearing this affidavit to declare that "Narola Sophie" and "Narola Longkumer" are the names of one and the same person i.e, my name only and further to declare that I shall use my name as "Narola Sophie" in all my future correspondence and records.

5. That the content of this affidavit from para (1) to (4) are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing material has been concealed therein.

And I have signed this affidavit on this 22nd day of April 2017 at Dimapur, Nagaland.

DEPONENT Solemnly affirmed and declared before me.

Notary Public DC-482

OFFICE OF THE 37 TYÜI EZONMONTSÜI-RÜI WOPAN EKHUNG HQ. Wokha : Nagaland

FELICITATION

The 37 Tyüi Ezonmontsüi-rüi Wopan Ekhung Wokha, Nagaland takes immense pride and joy in conveying our heartiest congratulations to Mrs. Apeni Kithan, W/o Dr. Mhabemo Kithan belonging to Old Changsu Village on bieng promoted to the post of Director, Higher Education, Govt. of Nagaland.

The Wopan Ekhung thank her for bringing laurels and prays that our Almighty God grant her guidance and wisdom as she continues to render her service to the Government in particular and to our Nagas in general.

Wishing her all the best in your future endeavour.

Sd/Robin Ngullie Chairman

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6

Sd/Sd/Mhonyamo Ngullie N. Mhademo Shitiri Working Chairman Chief Secretary-Genaral

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

7

public rest room toilets Biden secures Democratic prez nomination Flushing can spread Covid-19, says Study

WASHINGTON, AUG 19 (PTI): Joe Biden has officially been nominated the Democratic presidential candidate at the party’s unprecedented virtual convention to challenge Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the November 3 election.

Biden, 77, who served as vice president of the US for eight years from January 2009 to January 2017, would deliver his acceptance speech on Thursday.

“It is the honour of my life to accept the Democratic Party’s nomination for President of the United States of America,” Biden, who served as Senator from Delaware, said in a tweet.

“We have shown that the heart of this nation still beats with kindness and courage,” said his wife Jill Biden said.

“We just need leadership worthy of our nation – worthy of you,” she said in her speech from inside the classroom of the Brandywine High School, in Delaware where she once taught English in the 1990s.

D e m o c r a t i c Pa r t y delegates from across the country nominated him in the unprecedented virtual convention on Tuesday due to the raging coronavirus pandemic in the country that has killed over 170,00

Joe Biden people. Biden clinched the nomination following a virtual “roll call” featuring party luminaries from all 50 states and lesser-known Democrats who described Biden as ready to lead the nation through the twin crises of a pandemic and economic uncertainty.

Biden, who played an important role in the Congressional passage of India-US civil nuclear deal and was a key player in strengthening bilateral ties with India during the eight years of Obama administration, has scripted history by nominating Indian-origin Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate.

“After a spectacular roll call that showed the heart and soul of our nation, it’s official. Congratulations, Joe Biden,” Harris said in a

tweet. Harris, 55, is scheduled to deliver her remarks on Wednesday night.

Biden is leading over Trump by 7.7 points nationally, according to the average of polls by Real Clear Politics.

This is a few points drop from his previous lead of 10.2 points he held in June.

Tr ump, 74, would be formally nominated by the Republican Party as its presidential candidate at its virtual convention next week.

Two Democratic former US presidents, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, and former Secretary of State Colin Powell, a Republican, endorsed Biden.

Clinton told the virtual convention that Biden helped bring the United

States back from a recession before, and he can do it again.

“Joe is committed to building America back again,” he said.

“Donald Trump says we’re leading the world,” Clinton said in his five-minute message pre-recorded from his home in Chappaqua, New York.

“Well, we are the only major industrial economy to have its unemployment rate triple.

“At a time like this, the Oval Office should be a command centre. Instead, it’s a storm centre. There’s only chaos,” he said.

Carter said that Biden is the right person for this moment in America’s history.

“He understands that and understands dignity are essential traits that determine not only our vision but our actions. That’s what we need,” he said.

Powell said that Biden will be a president they will all be proud to salute.

“With Joe Biden in the White House, you will never doubt that he will stand with our friends and stand up to our adversaries—never the other way around. He will trust our diplomats and our intelligence community, not the flattery of dictators and despots,” he said.

“He will make it his job to know when anyone dares to threaten us. He will stand up to our adversaries with strength and experience.

They will know he means business,” he added.

A policy document released by his campaign over the weekend said that as Senator, as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and as Vice President, Biden has supported Indian-Americans and a strong friendship between India and the United States.

“Diverse and vibrant communities of Indian Americans enrich the fabric of our nation in every state of the union. As President, Biden will work in partnership with these communities; celebrate their extraordinary contributions to America’s success, prosperity, and safety; listen to Indian Americans’ needs and put in place policies that address their priorities,” it said.

Indian-Americans, like all Americans, are deeply invested in the core elements of our future — education, access to high-quality, affordable health care, addressing the climate crisis, and reforming and modernizing our immigration system in a way that aligns with American values.

B E I J I N G, AU G 1 9 (IANS): Chinese researchers have recently reported that flushing public restroom toilets or urinals can spew clouds of particles carrying viruses, including Covid-19.

The study, published in the journal ‘Physics of Fluids’, found that Covid19 particles from a flushing urinal can rise to two feet in the air in less than six seconds “potentially infecting the unsuspecting urinal user”.

The researchers’ work shows public restrooms can be dangerous places for potentially becoming infected with a virus, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Other studies have shown that both faeces and urine-based virus transmission is possible.

“To do this, we used a method of computational fluid dynamics to model the particle movement that occurs with the act of flushing,” said study researcher Xiangdong Liu from Yangzhou University in China.

“The specific models are the volume-of-fluids model and the discretephase model,” Liu added.

Flushing a urinal, much like flushing a toi-

let, involves an interaction between gas and liquid interfaces. The result of the flushing causes a large spread of aerosol particles to be released from the urinal, which the researchers simulated and tracked.

What the simulations revealed is disturbing. The trajectory of the tiny particles ejected by flushing a urinal “manifests an external-spread type, with more than 57 per cent of the particles travelling away from the urinal,” said Liu. But that’s not all.

When men use urinals within a public restroom, these tiny particles can reach their thigh within 5.5 seconds as compared to the toilet flush, which takes 35 seconds to reach slightly higher, the researchers wrote.

“Particles from urinals, however, show a more

violent climbing tendency.

The climbing speed is much faster than toilet flushing,” Liu said.

Urinals are used more frequently within densely populated areas and the researchers point out that particles will travel faster and farther, which poses a serious public health challenge. This work underscores how important it is to wear a mask within public places, especially restrooms.

“From our work, it can be inferred that urinal flushing promotes the spread of bacteria and viruses,” Liu added. “ We a r i n g a m a s k should be mandatory within public restrooms during the pandemic and antidiffusion improvements are urgently needed to prevent the spread of Covid-19,” the study author noted.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Mali’s president announces resignation after armed mutiny Shringla meets B’deshi counterpart

Harsh Vardhan Shringla to keep the visit as a low-key affair amid reports that this is Shringla’s first overseas tour since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ahead of his meeting with Shringla, Masud on Tuesday said that he would discuss various bilateral issues particularly regarding COVID-19 situation and prospective cooperation over access to coronavirus vaccine being developed by UK’s Oxford University.

“We will talk about trial possibilities of their (India)

My conscience will never accept Israel: Imran Khan ISLAMABAD, AUG 19 (IANS): Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has taken a clear and unequivocal stand, saying the founder of Pakistan Quaidi-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had made it clear that until the Palestinians get their due rights, they will not recognise Israel.

Khan expressed these views during an interview with a private news channel on Tuesday.

He discussed at length various issues including Pakistan’s foreign policy, Pak-China friendship, Israel, Kashmir issue, Afghan peace process, economy, situation in the region, national issues and politics, the News International reported.

To the question about Israel, the Prime Minister said that his conscience will never accept Israel.

“Our position on Israel is very clear. Pakistan can never recognise Israel.

We also have to answer to the Almighty about Israel and Palestine,” the Prime Minister said.

About China, Khan said that it should be clear that our future is connected with China. He said China has stood by Pakistan in K Y M C

every good and bad time. “ We a r e f u r t h e r strengthening our ties with China. China also needs Pakistan very much”, he said.

The Premier said Chinese President Xi Jinping was scheduled to visit Pakistan in May this year but his visit was postponed due to the coronavirus. He is now expected to visit Pakistan in winter.

On relations with Saudi Arabia, the Prime Minister said Pakistan’s role is not to divide the Muslim world. He said Saudi Arabia has its own foreign policy, adding that Saudi Arabia has helped Pakistan in every difficult time.

Imran Khan said that earlier America used Pakistan for war, but today both are partners in peace.

“We are partners in the peace process in Afghanistan.”

“I’ve been struggling all my life, I’ve been struggling since I was nine. I built a hospital but politics was a great struggle. I formed the PTI after the two-party system. There is no fear of ups and downs when you try,” said the Premier.

vaccine (being developed at Oxford University) here as we are continuing our discussion (regarding access to a vaccine) with everyone,” he said on Tuesday.

Developed in collaboration with British pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, Oxford University’s vaccine candidate is leading the race for a vaccine seen as the only viable option to get the world out of the coronavirus pandemic.

The vaccine is undergoing final stage trials in different countries. Serum Institute is also set to begin trials of the vaccine in India this week.

Masud said Bangladesh has also communicated with Britain’s AstraZeneca via the High Commission in London with the offer for the trial to be held in Bangladesh, which has recorded 282,344 coronavirus cases and 3,740 deaths from the disease.

television screen referred to him as the “outgoing president.”

“I wish no blood to be shed to keep me in power,” Keita said. “I have decided to step down from office.”

He also announced that his government and the National Assembly would be dissolved, certain to further the country’s turmoil amid an eight-year Islamic insurgency and the growing coronavirus pandemic.

Keita, who was democratically elected in 2013 and re-elected five years later, was left with few choices after the mutinous soldiers seized weapons from the armory in the garrison town of Kati and then advanced on the capital of Bamako.

They took Prime Minister Boubou Cisse into custody along with the president.

There was no immediate comment Wednesday from the troops, who hailed from the same military barracks where a coup was launched more than eight years ago, allowing

wave of particularly deadly attacks in the north in 2019 prompted the government to close its most vulnerable outposts as part of a reorganization aimed at stemming the losses.

Tuesday’s developments were condemned by the African Union, the United States, and the regional bloc known as ECOWAS, which had been trying to mediate Mali’s political crisis.

Ibrahim Boubacar Keita the Islamic insurgency to take hold amid a power vacuum.

The political upheaval unfolded months after disputed legislative elections.

And it also came as support for Keita tumbled amid criticism of his government’s handling of the insurgency, which has engulfed a country once praised as a model of democracy in the region.

The military has taken a beating over the past year from Islamic State and alQaida-linked groups. A

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DHAKA, AUG 19 (PTI): Foreign Secretary Harsh Va r d h a n S h r i n g l a o n Wednesday met his Bangladeshi counterpart Masud Bin Momen here and the two top diplomats discussed ways to boost bilateral ties amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shringla, who arrived here on Tuesday on his second visit to Bangladesh after he took office as the foreign secretary, held talks with Masud at Hotel Pan Pacific Sonargaon in Dhaka, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

Shringla on Tuesday called on Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina here during which they discussed security-related issues of mutual interest and co-operation in containing the coronavirus pandemic and revival of the economy in a post-COVID-19 world.

Both Bangladesh foreign office and the Indian high commission preferred

BAMAKO, AUG 19 (AP): Mali’s president announced his resignation late Tuesday, just hours after armed soldiers seized him from his home in a dramatic power grab following months of protests demanding his ouster.

The news of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita’s departure was met with jubilation by anti-government demonstrators and alarm by former colonial ruler France, and other allies and foreign nations.

The UN Security Council scheduled a closed meeting Wednesday afternoon to discuss the unfolding situation in Mali, where the UN has a 15,600-strong peacekeeping mission.

Speaking on national broadcaster ORTM just before midnight, a distressed Keita, wearing a mask amid the COVID-19 pandemic, said his resignation — three years before his final term was due to end — was effective immediately. A banner across the bottom of the

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sports

Champions league: PSG reach final

L I S B O N, AU G 1 9 (AGENCIES): Paris SaintGermain reached their first Champions League final with a dominant display to beat RB Leipzig 3-0 at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon.

Marquinhos set Thomas Tuchel’s side on their way, heading home Angel Di Maria’s free-kick (13) before Di Maria doubled PSG’s lead three minutes before the break following a mistake by Peter Gulacsi.

Juan Bernat glanced in PSG’s third 11 minutes into the restart from another Di Maria cross while Neymar struck the post twice in a one-sided semi-final.

In the climax to an engrossing fortnight of European football, PSG will face the winners of Bayern Munich’s last four clash with Lyon on Wednesday evening as they seek to mark their 50th anniversary with a first Champions League trophy.

On Tuesday, L’Equipe ran the headline ‘Changer de Planete’, encouraging PSG to reach the next level or ‘go to another world’ - after years of near misses. The response was emphatic.

“We ate them up from minute one,” said the influential Di Maria. “It’s going to be tough to sleep between now and the final.

We worked hard all game and we showed we deserve to be here. It doesn’t matter who we face: either

Marquinhos rises to head home his fifth goal of the season on Tuesday.

Bayern or Lyon, we’ll give our all.”

Tuchel’s men were odds-on favourites in the first of these Franco-German semi-final clashes and they are now just one game away from ending their wait for a first Champions League trophy having become the first Ligue 1 club to reach the final since Monaco in 2004.

The last time PSG reached the Champions League semi-finals in 1995, it was three years before Kylian Mbappe was born and 14 years before RB Leipzig even came into existence - but having left it late to book their place in the final four, this was a far more straightforward night for the nine-time Ligue 1 champions.

They might have been in front as early as the seventh minute when Mbappe, on his return to the starting line-up, set Neymar free of Angelino but his shot with the outside of his boot brushed the post.

Moments later, referee Bjorn Kuipers spotted a handball from the Brazilian in charging down Gulacsi’s clearance to rule out Mbappe’s strike as Leipzig were warned of what was to come.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side - aiming to reach their first Champions League final just 11 years after they were formed - looked like they had been set up to contain their opponents, but they fell behind after 13 minutes when Marquinhos rose unmarked to nod home

BCCI willing to host a farewell match for Dhoni, says official

New Delhi, Aug 19 (IANS): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is willing to host a farewell match for former India captain MS Dhoni, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket.

Speaking to IANS, a senior BCCI official said the board will speak to Dhoni, during the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League, and plan accordingly.

“There is no international series right now, maybe after IPL we will see what can be done because Dhoni has done a lot for the nation and he deserves all the respect. We always wanted to have a farewell match for him but Dhoni is a different player. He announced his retirement when nobody was thinking of it,” the official said.

Asked if they had any word with Dhoni as of yet,

the official said, “No, but surely we will speak to him during the IPL and that would be the right place to get his opinion about a match or series. Well, there will be a proper felicitation ceremony for him no matter if he agrees on it or not.

That will be our honour to felicitate him.”

Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal, too, agreed on holding a proper farewell match for the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman.

“I would be really happy if the BCCI hosts a match for Dhoni. He is a legendary player and you can’t let him go just like that. His fans would want to see him again in action,” Lal told IANS. “IPL is happening in the UAE and everybody will be glued to their screens to watch him play. But the board can host a series in India too, so that people can see him live in the stadium (obviously after this pan-

demic gets over),” he added.

Earlier, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren had also sought a farewell match for the former Indian captain. Soren had made an appeal to the BCCI, saying that Jharkhand would be the host.

Dhoni led Team India to title victories in the ICC WT20 (2007), ICC World Cup (2011) and ICC Champions Trophy (2013).

He made an unforeseen announcement with a simple social media post on country’s 74th Independence Day. The former Indian cricket captain did not play competitive cricket after the 2019 World Cup defeat to New Zealand and he put an end to all the speculation over his international future on August 15. However, Dhoni, like quite a few India cricket greats, has bowed out without a farewell match at the international level.

Di Maria’s free-kick.

It meant PSG had scored in each of their last 34 Champions League games, equalling Real Madrid’s record in a major European competition. But they weren’t finished there as Neymar went close to doubling his side’s lead with an audacious free-kick which struck the outside of Gulacsi’s post.

Leipzig were desperate for the interval, but they were the creators of their own downfall three minutes before the break as PSG doubled their advantage.

Gulacsi looked to play out from the back but his ball seeking Marcel Sabitzer only succeeded in finding Leandro Paredes, whose pass to Neymar was brilliantly flicked inside for Di

Koeman appointed Barca manager Barcelona, Aug 19 (IANS): Ronald Koeman has been appointed Barcelona manager on a two-year deal, the club announced on Wednesday. The 57-yearold Dutchman will take over from Quique Setien, who was sacked following Barca’s 2-8 defeat to Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

“FC Barcelona and Ronald Koeman have reached an agreement for the Dutchman to take over as first team coach until June 30, 2022,” the club said in a statement.

Koeman comes to Barcelona after coaching in the Premier League, LaLiga, the Dutch league, the Portuguese league and also on the international stage with the Netherlands.

In his six seasons as a Barca player, Koeman made 264 official appearances, scoring 88 goals, many of them from his trade mark free kicks on his way to becoming the highest scoring defender in the club’s history.

Maria to ruthlessly fire into the net.

Leipzig had very little to show for their first-half efforts apart from a header wide by Yussuf Poulsen, and Nagelsmann made a double change at the break as he sought to stage a dramatic comeback.

Patrik Schick and Emil Forsberg replaced Christopher Nkunku and Dani Olmo, but despite starting the second period well, with the two substitutes both having attempts that were off target, it was PSG who extended their lead.

Nordi Mukiele slipped as he failed to clear a loose ball and subsequently played Bernat onside for the full-back to steer Di Maria’s cross into the far corner.

Leipzig were desperately short on firepower, understandable given the absence of 34-goal top scorer Timo Werner, and Mbappe had the chance to compound their misery when he somehow glanced his header wide from another Di Maria delivery with 20 minutes remaining.

But this had long-since been wrapped up as a contest. PSG have scored 70 goals in 22 games in 2020, and in their 110th game in the Champions League - the longest run of any team before reaching their first final - they are now 90 minutes away from achieving the ultimate prize.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020

Bayern Munich showing the way to other big clubs: Jofre Mateu New Delhi, Aug 19 (IANS): Bayern Munich are currently showing the way to other clubs on how to stay at the top and not let factors such as personnel changes affect the level at which they can compete, according to former Spanish player Jofre Mateu.

Bayern are set to face Olympique Lyonnais in the semi-final of the Champions League after decimating Barcelona 8-2 in the quarter-final. They currently look favourites to win the title and seem to have replaced the likes of Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery with relative ease.

“You can’t see any weakness in Bayern Munich right now,” Jofre, who came through the ranks in Barcelona before playing at a number of clubs around Spain, told IANS. “Lyon have some very fast players like (Karl) Toko Ekambi and Memphis (Depay). But with (David) Alaba and (Alphonso) Davies there, they almost stand no chance. I think it is going to be more on the small details as it was with (Manchester) City. If (Raheem) Sterling had made it 2-2, probably we would be in a different situation.”

Lyon have been the surprise package of the season thus far. They managed to finish seventh in the league but in the Champi-

Jofre Mateu ons League, they defeated Juventus in the Round of 16 before beating Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City 3-1 in the quarterfinal. Both Juventus and City were expected to beat Lyon with relative ease.

“I think Lyon are approaching the matches very cleverly in terms of attacking movement. They are very careful of course because they have some weaknesses in defence. They are accommodating a lot of people in the back and then advancing but I don’t see that working against Bayern because they cross a lot,” said Jofre.

“If you put your team very deep then Bayern have a lot of players with good crossing abilities and also players with good ability to attack the crosses. For me Bayern is the clear favourite but it is a knockout match, so you never know what can happen. One action can change everything.”

Bayern stand in stark contrast to Jofre’s former club. Like the German champions, Barcelona have had to deal with ageing club legends departing in the recent past but this has only been followed by erratic transfers and financial mismanagement. This coupled with the degradation in the club’s famous youth system has made Barca a shadow of what they were for much of the previous decade. “(Bayern) are showing the way,” said Jofre while explaining that the Bavarian giants seem to be more decisive with players that they need in their squad which has helped them go through the transitional phase with relative ease.

“As a player you have your rights, at the same time your debts too. In the big clubs there are a lot of players who are all competitors.

They are good players but in any company you have a vision. That if you are not able to get a certain level in let’s say five years, we need to move. I don’t know why professional football clubs do not take those kinds of decisions. Probably Bayern has started with that,” he said.

The Champions League semifinal match between Bayern Munich and Lyon can be viewed on the Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten 3 (Hindi).

Mizo footballer Chhangte helps shopkeeper New Delhi, Aug 19 (IANS): India winger Lallianzuala Chhangte has chosen a unique way to help those in crisis due the COVID-19 pandemic.

The footballer saved a sweet shop owner in his hometown in Lunglei village in Mizoram by purchasing his ‘gulab jamuns’ in bulk.

“Having sweets is not allowed for us under any circumstance, but this is one way we have thought of helping out the shopkeeper here. If buying sweets can bring back the smile for him and his family then why not,” said Chhangte.

The family that owned the sweet shop was close to Chhangte’s heart as their shop was close to the ground where he used to train during his wee days.

“I still remember uncle used to try newer sweets and share them with us first. While coming back from school, I used

Lallianzuala Chhangte to have lunch at his place almost every day. They are so close to my heart,” he continued.

“After the lockdown was eased off to some extent, I took due permission from the authorities and started going out for training. Then, I found how tough their lives have been.

Their pain was constantly haunting me.”

Chhangte took up the initiative of gathering some youngsters who are a part

of the reserve teams of various Indian Super League and I-League teams and started training. Soon, he floated the idea of helping the family in one way or the other. The shop was renowned for ‘Gulab Jamun’ and Chhangte utilised that to revive their business.

“After training the entire week, we started to schedule competitive matches on the weekends.

I shared an idea of keeping a prize. Who doesn’t want

to win something after breaking sweat?”

“Their gulab jamuns have earned from far and wide, and when I shared this proposition of getting the same as the bounty, everyone loved the idea.

Thus, the Gulab Jamun Cup saw the light of the day,” Chhangte continued.

“It was a win-win situation for us. We could motivate more people to join us and play which would, in turn, be better for us all. On the other hand, buying sweets for so many people would help the shopkeeper’s family to sustain,” Chhangte said.

“As footballers, we are not allowed to have gulab jamuns at all. We mainly share them with our family and friends. If any player swallows one, we make sure he runs a couple of extra laps that day. It’s the perfect icing on the gulab jamun, isn’t it,” the 23year-old laughed.

I spoke to Ishant and still consider him a brother like 2014: Darren PM Modi may request Dhoni to play 2021 T20 WC: Shoaib Akhtar

New Delhi, Aug 19 (PTI): Ishant Sharma is “still a brother” for former West Indies captain Darren Sammy, who holds “no grudges” against the India pacer for using a racially offensive word to address him in jest during their stint as teammates in the IPL. Sammy had alleged that during his time with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2014 and 2015, he was often referred to as ‘Kaalu’ (Black), a racial slur the meaning of which he understood only recently.

A picture posted by Ishant Sharma’s official instagram page had addressed the West Indian by this word in the caption, lending credence to his charge. An angry Sammy had initially sought an apology but softened his stand and asked for a dialogue instead.

“I don’t hold grudges. I have spoken to Ishant Sharma. I consider him a brother like I did back in 2014 and ‘15 when playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad,” Sammy told PTI in an interview facilitated by his Caribbean Premier League franchise St Lucia Zouks.

Darren Sammy and Ishant Sharma The two-time T20 World Cup-winning former captain made it clear that while he has moved on like Ishant, he wouldn’t stop calling out anyone who uses racist slurs.

“But again if I find out that a possible racial slur is being used to describe me, no matter what time I find out, I will ask questions about it and that’s what I did.

“I have spoken and voiced my opinion and I am moving on. All these issues started a conversation in the cricket fraternity. I have

no regrets talking about that,” he said. Sammy, who played 232 international games for West Indies, has been very vocal against racism faced by blacks and people of colour after police brutality led to death of African-American George Floyd in the USA. “I think it’s just the way my mom raised me.

You must stand up for the things you believe in whether injustice is being done to you or your fellow men. It’s not just a movement because black lives do matter,” one could gauge how strongly he

felt about the issue.

“For years, we have been racially discriminated on the basis of our colour.

We have gone through so much as a race, as people,” he said.

“George Floyd was the straw that broke the camel’s back. People had to raise their voice against the systemic injustice, police brutality against people of colour,” the eloquent former Caribbean captain said.

When he was leading the West Indies, there were questions about his modest batting averages of -- 21 in Tests, 24 in ODIs and 17 in T20s -- apart from a bowling strike-rate of 73 plus in Tests and 61 in ODIs. Sammy said captaincy is not always about delivering the maximum in terms of numbers.

“Leadership is about empowering others and that’s the role I played in the later stages of my captaincy for West Indies and other teams that I led.

“Ideally, I would have liked to be a performer like some others but as leader you probably find less time to give yourself that attention,” the St Lucia Zouks

skipper said about his time in the international arena.

But doesn’t he feel that a captain needs to be a performer to gain the trust of the dressing room.

“It varies, I believe, from team to team. It only helps that the leader is on top of that chart so that one can lead by example.

“But I will not let a lack of performance or two on my part deter me from speaking on team goals which will help the team go out there and win matches,” said Sammy, who wants to win a silverware for St Lucia before retiring.

“I believe everything happens for a reason and I am now in a very happy place in my life. I have enjoyed playing cricket for the West Indies...the focus is on doing well for St Lucia Zouks as I am now closer to the end of my career and I want to finish on a good note.

A master at delivering quotable quotes, Sammy said he knows that he has played the game with pride and left a lasting impression for the kind of human being he has been.

L a h o r e , Aug 1 9 (IANS): Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar believes Prime Minister Narendra Modi might request MS Dhoni to come out of retirement and play in the T20 World Cup slated to be held in India next year.

Dhoni, on August 15, announced his retirement from international cricket, thus brining an end to an illustrious career spanning 16 years.

“I think he (Dhoni) could have gone on to play the T20 World Cup. The way India supports its stars, the way they love them, and recognises them, they would have played him in T20s. But it was his personal choice,” Akhtar said in an interview with YouTube channel ‘BolWasim’.

“But again he has won everything, a person from Ranchi has rocked the whole of India, what else do you need. At the end of the day, the world should remember you.

Shoaib Akhtar And a nation like India, they will never let you get forgotten.”

Dhoni, who made his ODI debut in 2004, changed the face of Indian cricket with his calm demeanour, sharp understanding of the game and astute leadership qualities.

He remains the only captain in the world to have won all three ICC Trophies - ICC World Cup, T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy.

Akhtar said that the 39-year-old might make a comeback to international

cricket on the request of Prime Minister Modi.

“You never know, the Prime Minister may call him and request him to play the T20 World Cup. It is very much possible.

Imran Khan was asked by General Zia-ul-Haq not to leave cricket after 1987, and he played,” he said.

“You cannot say no to the Prime Minister.

“I think Prime Minister of India should request him to lead India in the 2021 T20 World Cup,” he added.

The ‘Rawalpindi Express’ also said that India owes Dhoni a grand farewell.

“India will be geared up to give him a farewell game, tr ust me. If he doesn’t want it, it is a different thing, but India will be ready,” the 45-year-old added.

Dhoni turned up for India in 350 ODIs, 90 Tests and 98 T20Is, affecting a staggering number of 829 dismissals behind the stumps.

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