January 17, 2021

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXI No. 41

DIMAPUR, SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 Pages 8 ` 4.00

India 62/2 as rain washes out 3rd session sports, Page 8

India rolls out world’s largest COVID vax drive

Over 1.9 lakh get first jab on day 1

The first dose of Covishield vaccine administered to a frontline worker in the presence of Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, at AIIMS Delhi. (PTI)

Addressing the nation ahead of the launch of what he described as the world’s largest vaccination programme, Modi reassured the country that emergency use authorisation was given to the two made in India vaccines only after scientists were convinced of their safety and effectiveness.

Manish Kumar, a 34year-old sanitation worker at AIIMS, was the first recipient of the vaccine shot at Delhi, the Union Health Ministry said. Kumar said he was not at all nervous and was “proud of getting the vaccine”, as speculation swirled in some quarters about safety levels of Covaxin that was administered to him in the presence of Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan.

Vardhan told reporters that the two vaccines -- Covaxin and Covishield -- were a ‘sanjivani’, life infusing, in the fight against the pandemic. A total of 1,91,181 beneficiaries were inoculated with COVID-19 vaccine at 3,352 session sites across the country on the first day, the Health ministry said.

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): The first COVID-19 vaccine shots in India were given on Saturday to nearly two lakh frontline healthcare and sanitary workers as Prime Minister Narendra Modi rolled out the world’s largest inoculation drive against the pandemic.

The Union Health Ministry said no case of post-inoculation hospitalisation has been reported so far and the vaccination drive was successful.

However, it emerged in the night that there were two cases--a nurse in West Bengal

and a security guard in Delhi--which required hospitalisation after they developed allergic reaction, according to a West Bengal government official and AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria. Their condition was described by doctors as stable.

A sense of joy and excitement was witnessed at medical centres across the country with the beneficiaries being administered the Covishield and Covaxin vaccines less than a year after India recorded the first coronavirus case in Kerala on January 30 last.

Gov, CM extend Mimkut greetings

Discern prophecy through God’s word: Dr. Z.Keyho

D I M A P U R , JA N 1 6 ( N P N ) : G ove r n o r o f Nagaland RN Ravi has extended warm Mimkut greetings to the members of the Kuki community and to the people of Nagaland.

In his message, Governor Ravi said Mimkut festival, a harvest festival particularly the maize crop, was also a period to “remember loss of our loved ones.”

During the celebration, governor said Kuki community exhibits their magnificent traditions and customs, adding that love and brotherhood were the important essence of Mimkut festival.

Urging all to celebrate the festival observing Covid- 19 SOPs, the governor prayed that God bless all with happy, healthy and long life.

CM: Extending Mimkut greetings to the Kuki community, the chief minister Neiphiu Rio expressed hope that the harvest festival fosters peace, unity and be a harbinger of blessed beginnings in the lives of everyone.

“My best wishes for a happy and safe #Mimkut. #Nagaland #LandOfFestivals,” Rio said in a tweet.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 16 (NPN): Drawing attention to a “prophecy” by a prayer group which warned that those who take the COVID vaccine will go to hell and widely circulated in social media, NBCC general secretary Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho advised believers against making a mockery of their faith.

Dr. Keyho made the remark prior to pronouncing the invocation prayer at the programme for launching the COVID-19 vaccine at the NHAK here Saturday.

“We may have our doubts and apprehensions over the efficacy of the vaccine but we leave that to the experts”, Dr Keyho reiterated. He said the role of the Church was to pray that God will use the vaccine to bring protection to the community.

He exhorted the church for continued prayer as it has been doing for the last many months so that God would use the vaccine to protect lives.

Dr. Keyho said Nagas are confused because their faith has become situational.

“We do not condemn anyone, nor do we endorse everything they say” he said while reminding that there is a Bible- the Word of God- to test every spirit.

“We believe in prophecy but we are also admonished by the Word of God to test every spirit”, Dr. Keyho reiterated. He also reminded that there was true and false prophecy then and even now but what was needed was God’s wisdom to discern right from wrong.

However, he noted that lack of discernment was because “we are easily swayed away and get confused.”

nagalandpostofficial

international, Page 7

561 beneficiaries inoculated Kohima Science College land issue with Covishield jabs in State finally resolved after Cab steps in

Neiphiu Rio addressing the launching programme.

Correspondent/ Staff Reporter

KOHIMA/DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): Nagaland on Saturday joined the rest of the country in the rollout of COVID-19 vaccine dubbed as world’s largest vaccination programme covering the entire length and breadth of the country.

According to official figures, around 62% vaccination coverage was recorded on the first day of the phase-I COVID-19 vaccination conducted at nine selected launch sites across the state.

As per the health department data, 561 health care workers including doctors, nurses and support staff were inoculated with COVID-19 vaccine (Covishield) across nine districts (Phek 100), Dimapur (82), Kohima (80), Mokokchung (73), Peren (54), Zunheboto

(51), Tuensang (48), Mon (43) and Wokha (30). All eleven districts would have more sessions for the remaining health care workers starting January 18, 2020.

The department urged citizens not to spread rumours and fake messages around COVID-19 vaccine.

It stated that the Covishield vaccine has undergone all pre-clinical and clinical trials and was safe for use in the general population.

Meanwhile, chief minister Neiphiu Rio along with his cabinet colleague Neiba Kronu and advisors-- Dr. Nicky Kire and Mmhonlumo Kikon took part in the virtual launch of the programme by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In his brief address, Rio lauded all the scientists and people involved in making the vaccine within a year’s time. Acknowledging the healthcare workers, Rio said they deserved to be vaccinated in the first phase. Rio informed that he has directed all the elected members to be in their constituencies to encourage the public to take the first phase of this vaccination without fear or doubt.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, JAN 16 (NPN): In a landmark decision, the land issue of Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, Kohima, which has dragged on for the past three decades, finally got resolved after the state Cabinet, agreed ‘in principle’ to some key points at a meeting at the chief minister’s residential office, Kohima on December 18 last.

The cabinet accepted the compact area of 50 acres demarcated for the College by the district administration, while PHE department was to relocate its infrastructure to an appropriate government land elsewhere with the government to bear the expenses of around Rs.9.6 crore for shifting.

It was also agreed to introduce a new system called “free hold” propagated by chief minister, Neiphiu Rio. Under this, land originally belonging to Kohima Science College and subsequently allotted to private parties will be declared as “free hold”. In principle, the free hold land will belong to (Cont’d on p-6) the government, which can

A file photo of the Kohima Science College, Jotsoma.

take any decision, including taxation, in the future should the need arise.

The cabinet also agreed that the unused portion of land allotted to Regional Centre of Excellence for Music & Performing Arts (RCEMPA), will be given to Kohima Science College.

In case any private party, residing in allotted land, needed to be relocated in order to meet the requirement for the compact 50 acres, an alternate space outside the designated area may be allotted. However, the new allotment may not necessarily be in proportion to the previous one. Outgoing DC Kohima, Mohammad Ali Shihab A, who was instrumental in resolving

the issue disclosed to Nagaland Post that it was a big achievement for the district administration as the case had remained unresolved for a long time.

In order for Kohima Science College to be accredited a ‘Deemed University’, the college is required to possess a compact 50 acre land, which has now been met, he said. Shihab expressed gratitude to chief minister, under whose leadership the cabinet had taken the landmark decision. He also expressed optimism that with the introduction of the new ‘free hold’ system, the government will be able to work more efficiently and effectively with regard to land issues.

Nagaland COVID-19 tally 12054

Planetarium and innovation hub building inaugurated in Kohima

(3rd from R) Neiba Kronu and others at the inaugural programme. (NP)

Correspondent

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@Nagaland_Post

UK to close all travel corridors from Monday

nagalandpostofficial

DIMAPUR, JAN 16 (NPN): Nagaland on Saturday recorded 15 new COVID-19 positive cases-11 in Kohima, 3 in Mokokchung and 1 in Dimapur, taking the tally to 12054.

In its weekly bulletin, Health & Family Welfare department expressed serious concern that the uncontrolled spread among the age group of 21-40 years was increasing risk in the higher age groups.

The department also said that a super spreader event was reported during the week. “The recent spread in a convent following the festive season is worrisome,” it said.

P T I a d d s : I n d i a ’s COVID-19 caseload climbed to 1,05,42,841 Saturday with 15,158 more people testing positive while recoveries surged to 1,01,79,715, (Cont’d on p-6) Health ministry stated.

This is it!

“It’s funny- I’m more afraid of the vaccine than the virus.”

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Kohima, JAN 16 (NPN): The much awaited Planetarium and Innovation Hub building at Kohima was inaugurated by Planning and Coordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs minister, Neiba Kronu on Saturday.

The Planetarium and Innovation Hub is located at premises of the department of Science and Technology.

Addressing the inaugural programme, Kronu recalled his visit to the MP Birla Planetarium in Kolkata while as a student and said that the fascinating experience remained as a fond memory ever since. This kind of experience, he said, always inspire and nurture young minds into learning new things at the same time spark an imagination which would turn into reality. He said that with more of such

facilities in the state, students would be encouraged to venture into scientific professions.

Stating that science and technology was crucial in development and progress, Kronu advised the department to take advantage of their facilities and help in educating young minds.

He assured the all possible assistance from the State government for the innovation hub and planetarium.

In his brief address, Science and Technology, IT&C and NRE adviser, Mmhonlumo Kikon said it was a momentous day for the department, adding science and innovation were key ingredients in the development of any State and its people.

(Cont’d on p-6)

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

Phase-I: COVID-19 vaccination drive launched in Nagaland

Dr. Sendimeren Aonok receives COVID vaccine as the Temnjen Imna Along at the launching programme at Dr. Senilo Magh taking the vaccine shot in the presence of Toshi Dr. Aman Konyak, gynaecologist taking the first dose first recipient in Kohima district. (DIPR) CHC Jalukie on January 16. (DIPR) Wungtung, Toyang Changkong Chang and others. (DIPR) of vaccine in Mon on January 16.

DC Zunheboto, Peter Lichamo launching the first phase Dr. H. T. Sangtam receiving the first dose at IMDH Dr. Wobemo Yanthan being administered the vaccine CMO Phek, Dr. Vibeituonuo Mepfuo launching the of vaccination on January 16. (DIPR) Mokokchung on January 16. (DIPR) at DH Wokha on January 16. (DIPR) COVID vaccine on January 16 at Phek.

DC Longleng, M. Shayung Phom speaking at the launching programme in Longleng. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: State wide launching programme of first phase of COVID-19 vaccination was held on January 16.

Kohima: In Kohima, the district immunization officer, Dr. Rupert informed that under urban areas in Kohima district, a total of twenty-one (21) sites, 16 at government health facilities and five (5) at private health facilities have been set up for vaccination sessions.

According to DIPR report, Dr. Sentimeren Aonok senior consultant (ICU) Naga Hospital (NHAK) and Governor’s Medal awardee received the first dose of Covid vaccine in the state at NHAK. Khrielavonuo Angami, nightingale awardee 2019 also received the vaccine today.

Government session sites

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is the state govt creating awareness about the new variant of COVID-19?

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

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

A

B

A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

C

7% 92% 1%

Next poll

Q: Is the fear valid that students

will be susceptible to COVID if school reopen?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST january 17

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sunshine

26 12

Aizawl

Hazy sun

23 9

Guwahati Hazy sunshine

26 12

Hazy sunshine

23 8

Imphal

Itanagar Mostly sunny and nice

24 13

Shillong

Partly sunny

16 7

Kohima

Hazy sunshine

20 8

Dimapur Mostly sunny

25 12

Mkg

Mostly sunny and pleasant

Tuensang Partly sunny and cooler Wokha

Hazy sunshine

Zunheboto Mostly sunny

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22 9 16 5 21 11 19 7

include NHAK, Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs), Seikhazou and UPHC Potterlane while Primary Health Centres (PHCs) included Bethal Medical Centre, Kohimas, K. P. Bethesda, Oking and Putuonuo Nursing Home.

A total number of 3068 beneficiaries have been registered. Altogether 80 beneficiaries from health care workers were vaccinated with nill adverse affect.

Jalukie: Minister of Higher Education & Tribal Affairs, Temjen Imna Along who is also the legislator in-charge for Peren District COVID-19 graced the launching programme, in the presence of district administration, Medical department, Police and public leaders. Imna Along emphasized on dissemination of proper informa-

tion to the general public regarding the vaccination and also added it was the responsibility of the Medical dept., district administration and public leaders to sensitise the public. He also encouraged the public to maintain and practice proper health hygiene such as frequent washing of hands, use of face masks and maintenance of social distancing. Launching programme was chaired by DIS Peren, Ngauzeulungbe, welcome address by Dy. CMO Peren, Dr. Lanuakam and short speeches

by DC Peren, Sentiwapang Aier and ZPO president, Dr. Tumda.

Tuensang: In Tuensang the programme was launched at Tuensang District Hospital in the presence of advisor I&PR, SCERT and VGs Nagaland, Toshi Wungtung and Toyang Changkhong Chang MLA. It was attended by DC Kumar Ramnikant and adminintrative officers and SP Tuensang with CMO & MO officials Tuensang. Toshi Wungtung appreciated the efforts that have come so far towards launching of the vaccine which has been tested in the best clinics in the world and India. Toshi urged all to join the exercise and be a part of the history and encouraged the health workers and medi-

cal fraternity to lead the way. Toyang Changkhong Chang appreciated the government of Nagaland for the tireless efforts in containing this pandemic and from going worse. The first vaccine was tested by Dr. Senilo Magh MO DH Tuensang in the programme chaired by Dr. MOA CMO Tuensang. Invocation was offered by Avini chaplain DH Tuensangs.

Mon: In Mon, advisor of Fire & Emergency Services, SIRD, Relief and Rehabilitation, Pohwang Konyak launched the vaccine at District Hospital Mon. A press release stated that, out of the 1397 beneficiaries registered for the vaccine dose for the first phase, only 720 vaccine dose was available for Mon district.

The first person to be vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine was Dr. Aman Konyak (gynecologist District Hospital Mon).

Thongwang Konyak, MLA & chairman DPDB Mon, DC Mon and CMO Mon also gave a short speeches during the launching programme.

Zunheboto: First phase of COVID-19 vaccination was launched at town hall, Zunheboto by DC, Peter Lichamo. According to DIPR report, in a launching programme

attended by representatives from various civil bodies and government officers, DC reminded that they should remain thankful to scientists and all, involved in making the vaccine in a short period of time. He also acknowledged the tireless efforts by frontline workers who had worked as shields from beginning of the pandemic. DPO (RCH & UIP), Dr. M Nukshisangla Jamir through her keynote address highlighted procedures of the vaccination drive. CMO, Zunheboto Dr K Akaho Sema was vaccinated first among the attendees. Launching programme was chaired

by DTO (NTEP), Dr Y Aron Sema, while pastor (SBCZ) Dr. Hutton Sumi pronounced invocation.

Mokokchung: ADC Mokokchung Shashank Singh launched the programme in the presence of Dr. Sathya Bhas Karan, WHO representative. According to DIPR report, programme was held at Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH) Mokokchung, chaired by Dr. R. Chubala Aier chief medical officer (CMO) Mokokchung. Dedicatory prayer was offered by Yanglu associate pastor Medical Fellowship. CMO said that first phase of vaccination will be administered to health and frontline

workers.

Wokha: Wokha District Task Force administrated 100 health care workers on COVID-19 vaccination launched by deputy commissioner & chairman District Task Force for COVID-19, Orenthung Lotha at Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital, Wokha. DC stated there were many challenges as people refused to take the vaccine because of the rumors and misconception. He also appealed to the churches, NGOs and stake holders in the district to help in spreading awareness about the advantages of the vaccine.

CMO Wokha, Dr. C.W. Tungoe in the key note address said the first phase of vaccination would be administered to the health care workers and frontline worker, second 50 years of age above and 50 years and below with co-morbidity conditions. 1666 number of beneficiaries have been identified for vaccination in the district where 8 session sites have been identified which will be done in four day session and on January 16, 100 beneficiaries will be vaccinated and the second dose will be administrated after 28 day. President Lotha Eloe Hoho, Lotha Youth Hoho and other officials also attened. Rev. Abemo Jungio

senior pastor Wokha Town Baptist Church offered the dedicatory prayer.

Phek: In Phek, the launching was held at District Hospital Phek on January 16, by CMO Phek, Dr.Vibeituonuo Mepfuo.

A press release by NHM Phek district media officer, Kutolu Makro stated that, in her inaugural speech the CMO highlighted the efficacy and safety of the vaccine against COVID-19. The vaccination drive activities to be carried out in the identified health units were also briefed. Altogether 100 beneficiaries were successfully vaccinated with no untoward adverse reaction seen after the vaccination.

Total of 14 session sites were set up. The vaccination activities in the identified Community Health Centre (CHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) will be carried out in the subsequent days. Earlier, programme was chaired by medical superintendant DH, Phek, Dr. Tiala Longkumer while the invocation was pronounced by Thepfuneizo Yhor, pastor of Angami Baptist Church Phek town.

Longleng: Deputy commissioner M. Shayung Phom launched the programme in the presence of government officers, NGOs and civil societies

at District Hospital. DC sought the cooperation and support of all concerned to change the mind-set of the people by disseminating the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. Short speech was proposed by SP Longleng, Yanithung Ezung and the keynote address was pronounced by Dr. Obangjungla, CMO, Longleng. Welcome address was proposed by Dr. Lhouvizotuo Belho, medical superintendent DH and dedicatory prayer was offered by the secretary PBCA. Vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Imnameren Phom.

Kiphire: Meanwhile in Kiphire, COVID-19 vaccination training for Kiphire district was held on January 15 at District Hospital Kiphire, attended by 54 designated vaccinators and MO, DHK, Dr. Bandangsangla. Training began with a keynote address

by Dr. K. Pewezo Khalo, district programme officer of RCH & UIP. Resource person was Dr. Kevisetuo Anthony Dzeyie applied epidemiology programme co-ordinator of VCCM (UNDP). During the training, deputy commissioner Kiphire Ajit Kumar Ranjan had an interaction with the participants and encouraged to carry out the vaccination as per the GoI operational guidelines.

ERSU 28th general conference held at New Riphyim village DIMAPUR: Englan Range Students Union (ERSU) held its 28th general conference under the theme, “Work is Worship” at New Riphyim village on January 14, with DC Wokha, Orenthung Lotha as special guest and assistant professor of Mt. Tiyi College, Wokha, R. Chanchithung Kithan as theme speaker.

A press release by ERSU media cell stated that, Orenthung Lotha enlightened the gathering on the reality of today’s generation, where he observed that socio-economic changes in the Englan range was developing positively. While observing the present pandemic situation, the special guest said that “we are not in a position to hold any public gathering which is a wakeup call for the people.”

Stressing on the technological advancement at this present stage, he advocated the right usage of social networking sites and urged students to strive hard for excellence, developing work culture and venturing into various platforms available to them. While more severe and damaging pandemic might develop in the near future, the special guest encouraged for taking steps to save and protect the envi-

ronment. Speaking on the theme, R. Chanchithung Kithan observed that students’ community were mentally stressed leaving a serious socio-economic impact on the society, especially the under privileged. He also asserted that division of labour was indispensable for the proper functioning of society as everyone was not capable of doing all sorts of work.

Earlier, short greetings were delivered by Englan Range Village Council Union member, Nyimtsemo Odyuo and Lotha Students’ Union vice president, Chumben Khuvung. Special prayer and blessing was offered by Thechamo Kithan, pastor Englan Baptist Church, special song by Yikhum Baptist Church choir, vote of thanks

by ERSU vice president, Z. Chumbenthung Jungio and benediction by Yikhum Baptist Church youth director, Yanyithung Odyuo.

Programme was chaired

by Noyingbeni M. Odyuo and N. Zarenthung Tungoe, invocation by Mhao Tsopoe, asso. pastor New Riphyim Baptist Church and welcome address by ERSU president, Longshibemo Odyuo. New office bearers were also elected with Meribemo Tungoe as the new president for the tenure 2021-2023.

Minister of PHED, Jacob Zhimomi inaugurated Homeland Village Council (HVC) hall in the presence of Aghunaqa Area GBs, students and various leaders on January 16. Homeland Students Union (HKK) presented war dance and folk song. Vote of thanks delivered by Jeptioshe L. Jakha Hd. GB Homeland Village. (HVC)

5TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY

OF OUR BELOVED LT. LEZOKIENO THAPRÜ (17-1-2016) Those special memories of You always brings a smile, If Only, We could have YOU back for just a little while.

We think and Miss YOU every passing day, All we have are your memories and your picture in frames.

GOD has YOU in HIS keeping and we have YOU in our hearts forever UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN. If roses grow in Heaven, Lord please pick a bunch and Place them in OUR Mother’s arms and tell her they are from US. And when she turns to smile, place a kiss upon her cheek and hug HER from all of US. “They can no longer die; for they are like the angels.”

- Luke 20:36 -Loving Family K-95

DP-307

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

First phase of COVID-19 vaccination held across North East

NORTHEAST, JAN 16 (CORRESPONDENTS/ PTI/AGENCIES) : Along with the rest of India, the first phase of COVID vaccination was held in the eight North-eastern states of India. The vaccine doses were mainly administered to frontline health workers with the chief minister of each states flagging off the vaccination drive.

MANIPUR: An attendant of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), Imphal was the first person to get the COVID-19 vaccine (Covishield) in Manipur.

Along with Ningombam Romesh of Khurai who was the first person, a total of 1000 healthcare workers were vaccinated after chief minister N Biren Singh launched the historic vaccination drive of COVID-19 vaccine (Covishield) in the state.

The chief minister launched the vaccination programme in a function held at JNIMS hospital today shortly after Prime Minister Narendra launched the countrywide programme through video conferencing from New Delhi today.

The 1st phase vaccination in the state was carried out in 10 centres - JNIMS Hospital, RIMS Hospital, Shija Hospitals and Research Institute and District Hospitals of Churachandpur, Bishnupur, Senapati, Chandel, Ukhrul, Thoubal and Tamenglong.

A total of 9617 healthcare workers will receive vaccination in the first phase. In the 2nd phase, other frontline warriors will be inoculated.

In the 3rd and 4th phase, persons above 50 years of age and people below 50 years of age with co-morbidity will be vaccinated respectively.

Addressing the historic

occasion, chief minister N Biren Singh urged the public not to make negative comments about the vaccine without valid scientific proof.

The state government has identified and kept ready 246 session sites spread across 16 districts for vaccination. All these sites have been checked through dry runs.

AT RIMS hospital, the vaccination programme was launched by Imphal West DC N Praveen Singh at a function held at the College of Nursing, RIMS. Director of RIMS, prof A Shanta Singh was among altogether 100 healthcare workers of the institute to be vaccinated after launch of the vaccination programme.

He also said that he volunteered for the vaccination to demonstrate that there were no side effects of the vaccine.

Expressing happiness for the people of the state, he added that it would be good if more people come out to get vaccination to break the chain of the pandemic.

(Correspondent) MEGHALAYA: Meghalaya on Saturday joined the rest of the country in the largest vaccination drive in the world against COVID-19 with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma terming it as a ‘historic day’.

The launch of COVID19 vaccination kicked off in the presence of the chief minister at the North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), which is one of the vaccination sites in the State.

A total of 832 health workers were inoculated at ten centres in nine districts across Meghalaya and 100 in super specialty NEIGRIHMS here.

In the first phase today 100 healthcare workers received their first shot at NEIGRIHMS from East Khasi Hills District and they would receive their second shot on the 28th day.

“According to the scientists the immunity against COVID-19 would develop in 45 days and before that those immunized would have to take care,” Sangma said.

In the second phase of the vaccination drive, frontline workers would get their COVID-19 vaccine shot. After that citizens over 50 years and with comorbidity would get their vaccine shots.

The Chief Minister further informed that the first phase of vaccination for 16,000 health workers may take three to four weeks’ time.

Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare, P. Sampath Kumar said more than 800 healthcare workers were vaccinated in nine districts.

Clarifying as to why two districts out of the total 11 in the State were left out in the first phase of vaccination, the chief minister said

by Sunday the vaccination will be rolled out in those districts too.

As of Saturday, vaccination drive was conducted in ten different locations in nine districts the State.

(Correspondent) Assam: Assam joined the nation in launching the COVID-19 vaccination drive on Saturday, with a medical officer in Golaghat district becoming the first person in the state to receive the jab.

Dr Milan Kumar Laskar, the sub-divisional medical officer of Bokakhat, was administered the shot at 11.07 am at a public health centre, right after Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the occasion.

Tsungkamneo festival celebrated in Tuensang

Saramati Sisters performing traditional tune at the festival in Tuensang. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Tsungkamneo festival of Yimchunger community was celebrated at town hall Tuensang organized by Yimchunger Union Tuensang Town (YUTT) on January 16, with DC Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant as the special guest. Celebration was also attended by advisor I&PR, SCERT and VGs, Toshi Wungtung and Toyang Changkhong Chang, MLA. According to DIPR report, the special guest said Nagaland was a di-

verse society and perfect example of the unity in diversity. Peace should be everlasting amongst the people irrespective of tribes, he said. He stressed on preserving of cultural and traditional values, social bonding and also appreciated the tribal leaders of the district coming together to celebrate the Tsungkamneo festival. He said that one must not forget the ancient wisdom which forefathers have given in the form of folklore and that should be

passed on to the next generation so that one can live with dignity and identity.

I.N Chingmak executive chairman CKS in his short speech encouraged the tribal leaders to cooperate and live in peace. Programme also had special numbers from Kemifu Cultural Club Tuensang, traditional song

by Saramati Sisters and traditional instrumental by Tsukhiamla. Significance of Tsungkamneo was given

by R. Throngji, convenor Tsungkamneo planning committee.

A medic administers the first dose of Covishield vaccine to a frontline worker at Gauhati Medical College. (PTI)

Later, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the state-wide drive at Assam Medical College Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh, and Minister for Health and Family Welfare Himanta Biswa Sarma at Gauhati Medical College Hospital (GMCH) here.

At GMCH, retired vice chancellor of Sankardeva University of Health Sciences, Dr Umesh Chandra Sarma, was the first person to receive the shot, followed by 11 other prominent doctors, including its principal Dr Achyut Baishya and superintendent Dr Abhijeet Sharma.

Similarly, in AMCH, its principal Dr Sanjiv Kakoti was administered the first dose.

The chief minister, after launching the drive, said that it was a "moment of pride for the entire nation and a major step towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', made possible only due to his able leadership".

An estimated 6,500 of the 1.9 lakh registered

health workers, designated as COVID warriors, will be administered the vaccine on the first day at 65 centres, set up in seven medical college hospitals and 24 district and sub-divisional medical establishments.

During the second phase, one lakh frontline workers including security forces will be inoculated.

Mizoram: A health worker was the first person to get the COVID-19 vaccine in Mizoram on Saturday as the Northeastern state joined the rest of the country in launching the vaccination programme, officials said.

Lalthlamuani, a gradeIV worker at the Aizawl Civil Hospital, was the first person to get the vaccine in the state, they said.

Among the recipients were 10 senior doctors, including Lalhmuchhuaka, the superintendent of the Aizawl Civil Hospital.

Total 314 people received the vaccine on the first day though 500 people were supposed to get it, officials said.

The turnout was less as the beneficiaries recieved

the SMS alert, informing them about the vaccination programme, late, an official said.

The main programme to launch the vaccination drive was held at the Aizawl Civil Hospital. Health Minister R Lalthangliana and Health Secretary H Lalengmawia were present.

The health minister claimed that Mizoram is one of the best performing states not only in India but the entire world in tackling the pandemic.

A total of 18,500 doses of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine were brought to Aizawl by a air from Pune on Thursday.

Apart from the Aizawl Civil Hospital, the first rollout of the vaccine happened at the Zoram Medical College (ZMC), the Sub-District Hospital at Kulikawn, and Urban Public Health Centre at ITI Veng, all of which are in Aizawl, besides the civil hospital in Lunglei town in the southern part of the state.

The vaccination drive will be held in all the districts across the state from next week and about 8,000 healthcare workers are to be vaccinated in the first phase, said Dr Eric Zomawia, the director of the National Health Mission (NHM) in Mizoram.

A runachal Pradesh: The COVID19 vaccination drive is underway in Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday with a government hospital doctor receiving the first shot, a senior health official said here. Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the state-wide launch of the COVID-19 inoculation exercise at the K D S District Hospital in Tawang earlier in the day.

Dr Deka, an associate professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Tomo Riba

Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) in Naharlagun near here was the first person in the state to receive the vaccine, State Surveillance Officer Dr Lobsang Jampa said.

When the vaccination began, Home Minister Bamang Felix was present at TRIHMS. A list of 23,505 healthcare professionals, including 3,867 vaccinators and 483 health workers from IndoTibetan Border Police, has been uploaded on CoWin, a digital platform for monitoring the inoculation exercise, he said.

Around 28,000 frontline workers also registered their names at the portal.

Agartala: The first phase of COVID19 vaccination started in Tripura with immunisation drive at 17 session sites set up across eight districts of the state. A total of 1,399 health workers will receive the first dose shots of the Covidshield vaccine here on Saturday.

The first vaccine shot was administered on 30year-old Dr Mridul Das in Gandhigram Primary Health Centre (PHC) in West Tripura district around 11:15 am which was followed by Dr Ankur Roy, dental surgeon from the same hospital.

Tripura received 56,500 doses in the first tranche which will be used to vaccinate 55 percent of the total health workers out of 45,432 in the state.

A total of 100 health staff, including the doctors, staff nurse, office staff, RBSK team, Lab technician, MPW staff, 26 ASHA and 44 Anganwadi workers will get the vaccine at Gandhigram PHC. Another, Dr Ankur Roy, a dental surgeon who was the second receiver of vaccine shot, said the vac-

cine passed various levels.

Among the frontline workers in Tripura, ASHA, and Anganwadi workers led the fight from the front visiting the house identifying symptomatic patients.

Rinku Sutradhar, an Anganwadi worker, received the dose of the vaccine in Gandhigram PHC on Saturday. Meanwhile, West District Chief Medical Officer, Dr Debasish Das, said that three session sites, including Gandhigram PHC, East Bubanban PHC and Tripura Medical College were selected for vaccination on the first day. (Courtesy: East Mojo) S ikkim : S i k k i m joined the rest of the nation in launching the COVID19 vaccination programme today. Chief Minister PS Tamang and Health Minister Dr MK Sharma were present at STNM hospital near Gangtok during the launch. The vaccination drive simultaneously also began at District hospital, Gyalsingh, West Sikkim.

AIR correspondent reports, on the first day, 140 health care workers have been registered for inoculation at the two COVID19 vaccination centres in Sikkim. Speaking after the launch, chief minister PS Tamang said that the vaccination programme is a great example of Aatmanirbhar Bharat envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as both the vaccines are manufactured in India.

Speaking to AIR News, Sikkim health minister Dr MK Sharma hoped that the vaccines bring an end to the hardships faced by all due to the pandemic. Sikkim has received 12,500 doses of Covishield vaccine in the first consignment for Phase I. The vaccination drive will subsequently cover primary health centres. (Courtesy: News on air)

STATE

NEWS IN BRIEF EC meeting at assembly secretariat: Commissioner & secretary of assembly secretariat, Dr. P. J. Antony has informed that evidence meeting with departmental representatives of Tourism has been convened on February 1, 11 a.m at assembly secretariat committee room. All the members of the Estimates Committee (EC) have been requested to attend the meeting.

NNC (Parent Body) CEC meeting: Naga National Council (Parent Body) under the leadership of Yilow Humtsoe, Zhiongba Yimchung r ü and V. Nagi has convened a central executive council (CEC) meeting from January 20 to 22, to discuss urgent political issues and the present situation. All the NNC regional council officials and CEC members have been requested to attend the meeting.

PMKK launched in Mokokchung centre Correspondent MOKOKCHUNG JAN 16 (NPN): The launching programme of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK) Mokokchung Centre (Empower Pragati) was held on Friday.

The centre was also selected to have an interactive session, Friday, during the nationwide launching through video conference of the ‘PMKVY 3.0’, by minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, GoI, Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey and state minister (independent charge) for Power, for New and Renewable Energy and minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Raj Kumar Singh as guest of honour.

The centre was amongst the 75 centres, selected nationwide, by the central ministry.

Speaking to media persons at the launching programme, PMKK Mokokchung centre, central manager, Imtirenba Changkiri stated that the main purpose of the centre was to skill the youths of the country in accordance

Central manager, Imtirenba Changkiri (Right) and student trainees during the interactive session. (NP)

with the vision of prime minister, Narendra Modi and NDA government’s vision to make India a ‘skill capital nation’. He said that the centre has so far rolled out more 300 skilled

candidates of which 160 have found job placements (private sectors) in different parts of the country.

The centre offers training in customer relationship management & busi-

ness process outsourcing, makeup artist and room attendant free of cost. Prior to the training, compulsory, basic computer application and soft skill, were offered to the trainees.

Condolences for member of the NSCN (I-M) steering committee

DIMAPUR: Chairman of NSCN (I-M) Q. Tuccu, NSCN (I-M), Eastern Naga National Workers’ Union (ENNWU), Yimchungrü Union Dimapur (YUD) and Eastern Nagaland People's Union Dimapur (ENPUD) have expressed grief at the demise of steering committee member, NSCN, late P. Hopung Yimchungrü on January 15 at his residence in Showuba, Dimapur.

Q. Tuccu: Chairman of NSCN (I-M) Q. Tuccu

in a condolence note expressed pain at the demise of late Hopong and that he was honoured and blessed to have known him personally. Tuccu described late Hopong as a brave courageous man with integrity and who had always advocated for the righteous path. Tuccu also stated that Naga nation, express heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and offer prayer to the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

Lamenting that “A good

heart has stopped beating, a good soul ascended to heaven, we part with our beloved father and asü Hopong in pain”, Tuccu stated that “May God put him in a special place where he will be watching us, the people who loved and cherish him”.

NSCN (I-M): NSCN (I-M), steering committee in a condolence note through its convenor, Ashiho Asoumai stated that, late Hopong was a person who defied his age, gave his everything

for the Naga nation and with his patriotic spirit, he lived for many years to inspire the younger generation with his revolutionary zeal and political commitment on the rights of the Naga people. The condolence stated that in his demise, Naga nation lost a noble man of high standing whose name would be recorded in the history of Naga political movement. Committee also conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that God grant a

peaceful rest to the spirit.

ENNWU: Easter n Naga National Workers’ Union (ENNWU) in condolence note by ENNWU through its convenor, Moba Chang stated that late Hopong served under various capacities in the state and came to the national movement as CCM of NSCN on May 21, 1989. ENNWU stated that he was a pioneer and a tall leader who witnessed the first Indo-Naga war at Huker and was made the first Angh from

Yimchunger community in 1956 from Sainis village.

Union stated that he would forever be remembered for his contributions towards the Naga nation.

YUD: YUD in a condolence note by president M Biremong Yimchunger and general secretary R Aaron Yimchunger stated that, late Hopung had served as the first president of Yimchungrü Tribal Council (YTC) and one of the pioneers in various fields for Yimchungrü people.

Stating that in his demise, Eastern Nagaland and Nagas in general have lost a fearless revolutionary leader who had stood firm and fought against all odds for the freedom of Nagas till his last breathe, the YUD added that the vacuum created would be difficult to fill and the legacy would be remembered and carried on by generations. Union conveyed condolences to the family members and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.

ENPUD: ENPUD in a condolence note by ENPUD press and information secretary, Thangsoi stated that, late Hopong was one among the pioneering leader of the Yimchunger community and the demise of a visionary leader was a loss not only for the family but for everyone. While stating that the void created would be difficult to fill, the ENPUD conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and pray that the departed soul rest in internal peace.

4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXxI NO. 41 Dimapur, SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

Moving on regardless

D

espite rising cases of the new strain of coronavirus, that spreads 70% faster than COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) and particularly transmitted to young people including children, states across India including Nagaland, have decided that educational institutions cannot continue to remain closed indefinitely till the virus is effectively contained. The new COVID strain, B.1.1.7.,was discovered first in the UK was also found in the US recently. The government of Nagaland, has decided to re-open schools for students of class VI onwards in the state from February 2021. The Nagaland university will resume classes by the second week of February 2021. The new academic session for the technical institutions in Nagaland is likely to begin from February 25 next. The decision follows the nod given by the High Powered Committee (HPC) on COVID to the proposal by the School Education Department. According to Principal Director School Education C.Shanavas, the department would be preparing detailed SOPs for resuming normal classes and would issue a notification soon in this regard.

It was also learnt that preparations were on to conduct final exams for classes 10 and 12 in March in offline mode. The department will be issuing detailed information soon, an official said. It may be recalled that the Cabinet on December 18, 2020 directed the Education department to take necessary steps to resume physical classes in a staggered manner for students of Classes of 6 onwards. As the virus is not likely to disappear for sometime, the choice between continued closure and partially normalise activities is clear. With normal life paralysed and economy worsening, there is no other option but to restart activities with some restrictions. The education sector is facing unprecedented challenges and needs to adapt and find solutions to keep children motivated and in their route to learning. The pandemic has made “e-Learning” or online education as the new normal and will ensure proliferation of information technology tools and gadgets postCOVID-19. Even if there are restrictions in the form of SOPs, many parents will be unwilling to send their children to schools or colleges, especially in the light of the new COVID-19 variant that is believed to spread 70% faster than COVID-19. According to a report, professor Neil Ferguson an epidemiologist of Imperial College London and member of No10’s advisory group NERVTAG, said the high rate of infection reported among kids when schools reopened in last November could also have been because of the new variant of the virus since children are at high risk. Researchers believe the new virus strain, which is reportedly between 50 and 70 per cent more infectious, but don’t believe it is more deadly or causes any more severe disease in either adults or children. In some states, the government has allowed only 50% of total strength to physically attend classes and left the option for online classes.

People have been adhering to the SOPs for almost a year and now are fed up. Many are trying to restart normal life as can be seen in crowded markets and offices. Educational institutions have to work much more in ensuring that all protocols are very strictly followed if classes are to be resumed. Therefore, the government must ensure that educational institutions are fully prepared to hold classes with strict enforcement of protocols, to achieve the goal.

DailyDevotion The Voice of the Nature of God

I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” —Isaiah 6:8 When we talk about the call of God, we often forget the most important thing, namely, the nature of Him who calls. There are many things calling each of us today. Some of these calls will be answered, and others will not even be heard. The call is the expression of the nature of the One who calls, and we can only recognize the call if that same nature is in us.

The call of God is the expression of God’s nature, not ours. God providentially weaves the threads of His call through our lives, and only we can distinguish them. It is the threading of God’s voice directly to us over a certain concern, and it is useless to seek another person’s opinion of it. Our dealings over the call of God should be kept exclusively between ourselves and Him. The call of God is not a reflection of my nature; my personal desires and temperament are of no consideration. As long as I dwell on my own qualities and traits and think about what I am suited for, I will never hear the call of God. But when God brings me into the right relationship with Himself, I will be in the same condition Isaiah was. Isaiah was so attuned to God, because of the great crisis he had just endured, that the call of God penetrated his soul. The majority of us cannot hear anything but ourselves.

And we cannot hear anything God says. But to be brought to the place where we can hear the call of God is to be profoundly changed.

Quotes

The price of greatness is responsibility. ~ Winston Churchill

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

Post-mortem

HIV thriving in the shadow of Covid-19 pandemic I t is indeed very interesting to see history repeating itself in a very unique way as far as HIV and Covid-19 pandemics are concerned and still a very interesting part is to take a look at people’s reactions with complete pack of anticipated hatred and condemnation with just a halfcooked knowledge through social media circulation rather than searching deep enough to know the exact nature and character of the disease in question. The classic contradiction seen here was our people’s initial reaction to the new diseases with massive contempt attached with pre-calculated discrimination and stigmatization against HIV and Covid-19 pandemics and at the same time, on the other hand, exhibiting self-disciplinedeficit behaviors and showing obvious lack of will to uphold behavioral restraints to keep ourselves protected from these dreaded diseases.

Unfortunately and very sadly, common observations during such pandemic situations were that most of the talking and discussion were simply unscientific, baseless and cooked-up stories rather than knowledge with scientific truth discourses. Another contradiction being observed here even during the recent Covid-19 pandemic was that our people as a whole have sadly behaved badly, and have become popular for wrong reasons, at breaching or breaking the authority’s guidelines and Standard of Operation (SOP) that had been laid down for the safety and interest of the state and the general public. HIV/ AIDS and novel corona virus (Covid-19) have been classic examples of repetition of history especially in our state if not across the world.

In the early 1980s, when the HIV was first detected in the USA, the news rapidly flooded the entire world like wild fire with so much negativity which subsequently reached our state in early 1990s. As expected, along the universal wave, our people’s response and reaction to the new arrival of the HIV/ AIDS disease was exceptionally worse than the reception of covid-19 pandemic and is still lingering. HIV pan-

demic news created an extraordinary wave with much contempt and anticipated hatred associated with disproportionate reaction without realizing that this very same disease will one day find our home and be part of our very own families uninvited.

Regrettably, countless unfortunate incidences of discrimination and stigmatization were subjected towards the unfortunate victims of the HIV/AIDS at schools, jobs, renting houses, even at the very funeral point, and the most tragic and unfortunate part is that the manifested action was totally devoid of knowledge and blindly acted.

Such an abominable reaction of the people towards new pandemic was understood and perceived to be a good sign of preparedness of our people to face or challenge any threatening situations: the disgusting posture exhibited by the public had been interpreted as a sign that people would definitely protect themselves by all means and avoid such discrimination and stigmatization laden disease at any cost. There was great anticipation and hope that HIV/AIDS would come to its dead end.

However, slowly the intensity and flame of disgusting hatred towards HIV/ AIDS cooled down and now, within 30 years time, Nagaland state stands at top-3 nationally in HIV prevalence (1.15%) only next to our neighboring NE States of Mizoram and Manipur.

As per ANC (Ante Natal Care) HIV Sentinel Surveillance (HSS-2018-19) report, Nagaland with 1.66% of HSS stands at top-1 nationally which is interpreted as “HIV transmission is no longer confined only to a high risk group (Drug users or Sex workers) of population but rather has now reached the general population and household level” which is indeed a grave concern for all of us. ANC (Pregnant) population represents general population. ANC HSS research being more reliable, more consistent because pregnant women population are more homogeneous (similar/ uniform) in nature so if ANC HSS reading becomes greater than 1%, it indicates HIV

transmission has already taken its root at community and general population level.

The implication of HIV positive pregnant women is that the risk of HIV transmission is higher in a family circle (wife, husband and children) and the cycle goes on. Family by definition being a unit of society, cyclic cascade like snowballing slowly leads to massive avalanche like momentum that might ultimately threaten the very existence of the entire society and community and endanger it if concerted effort of damage control is not initiated on war footing by all collective stakeholders of the state.

By and large, observation shows that the root causes of unabated rapid spread and transmission of HIV in the community were mainly our people’s habits of casualness, attitude of carelessness, lack of ownership of one’s own health, complacency behaviors and indifferent attitude, total lack of self restraints, and lack of healthy life style and selfdiscipline. Report shows that 94% of overall HIV transmission in Nagaland is through sexual route alone such as casual sex and sexual immoralities and unprotected sexual behaviors. HIV is no more confined only among the distance groups such as high risk group (HRG) like Injecting Drug User (IDU), Female Sex Worker (FSW), Men Sex with Men (MSM), Transgender/Hijras (TG/H) and bridge population such as migrants, long distance truckers, but rather it is now already very much within the family line and transmission cascades are getting its momentum faster than expected or anticipated.

First of all, every stakeholder and individuals concerned need to know the peculiarity of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) that causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) and deaths. Peculiarity about HIV is that there is no cure yet for HIV, no vaccine has been successful so far. Drugs available right now for HIV infected people are very effective but not for cure and if discontinued, drug resistant variants of virus will develop soon and outcome scenario

will not be pleasant at all for treatment defaulters. There is no drug so far that kills HIV virus directly. ARV drugs are mainly for the suppression of viral multiplication inside the infected host thereby preventing further transmission from infected individuals to non-infected individuals, to help improve quality living, improve longevity by warding off opportunistic infections by maintaining host immune capacity. Unfortunately, the treatment for HIV is painfully life-long. The scientific dynamics for HIV researches across the world through concerted collaboration and co-operational efforts of scientists community had had tremendous progression to tackle this invincible HIV and sees dawn with great hope that a day will come when HIV will be no longer be a formidable disease. New development of technologies have contributed vigorously in handling HIV pandemic and has indeed impacted countless positive changes on the lives of HIV infected people as well as improved quality of service delivery systems for people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Classic difference between HIV and Covid-19 is that HIV does not come in wave through the air route like covid-19 which is airborne, but HIV rather creeps in unnoticed through behavioral and life style routes.

HIV does not show symptoms quickly like covid-19 or other common diseases but its symptoms appear only after HIV virus had thoroughly destroyed the host’s immune system. HIV deaths are not instant or quick like covid-19 virus but it kills its victims very slowly and inflicts a slow torturing death associated with painful deprivation of victim as well as family in terms of mental, physical, emotional, psychological, economic suffering accompanied by painful social discrimination and stigmatization. Unlike other diseases, there is no vaccine for HIV or cure for HIV. Once infected with HIV, the host remains infected for life.

There is no natural healing or recovery from HIV unlike covid-19 or any other disease.

For example, in the case of

measles, the host’s immunity acts as magic bullet. Once vaccinated or once infected by measles and recovered, the host’s immunity remains permanent for life in normal conditions whereas, in the case of HIV infection, HIV virus attacks the host’s immune defense system, infects defense cells which is very typical of HIV, and produces surpluses of fake immune system which has no power at all against HIV. Unlike Covid-19 or other diseases, HIV does not kill its victim or prey directly but it kills its host through proxy killers (opportunistic infections) by thoroughly suppressing its host’s immune system thus the killing becomes slower, painful and torturous.

Arrival of new Covid19 pandemic has inflicted untold difficulties and complicated the management system of the HIV pandemic control program all over the world. Covid-19 lockdown and movement restrictions has played havoc and really created difficult situations for State AIDS Control Society and aggrieved People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in particular. Naga tribal societies and village administrative systems from time immemorial have been sovereign which has transcended from ancient tradition and culture practiced by our forefathers.

Each village has its own set of sovereign rules to follow and no outsider, even the government, cannot interfere or challenge it. Almost every village and tribal towns locked themselves out simultaneously by erecting walls and secured gates immediately after the government announced lockdown and restriction of all forms of movement. The tribal bodies, village councils, town’s colony councils all instituted their own set of rules as accepted local SOP and the rules were so strong that even the villages’ own people or relatives were prohibited from entering or going out where even the authority’s SOP or guidelines had nothing to do with local sovereign authority and rules.

The consequence of this pandemic emergency of clamping down all movements was that HIV silently but rapidly thrived in the

shadow of covid-19 pandemic. To make the current situation of HIV burden worse, countless returnees flooded the state from other states and from abroad who could not be screened and tested for HIV for obvious known reasons of covid-19 situation. Hardest part in management was the conversion and declaration of all District hospital facilities, where all HIV control programs are co-located, as Covid-19 hospital and sealed off. Moreover, almost entire critical manpower employed in the HIV control program was deployed for Covid-19 duty as well. The cycle of Covid-19 duty, followed by facility quarantine, followed by home quarantine and then back to covid-19 duty, so on and so forth, was one of the most challenging circumstances being faced by HIV Control Program staffs across the state as they are compelled to carry out dual responsibilities simultaneously for both covid-19 duty as well as HIV control program’s duty. At times, ARV drugs for PLHIV, who desperately needed drugs for survival, were able to reach them by climbing up the village gates and walls.

For instance, internationally and nationally, flagship programs such as WHO (World Health Organization), NACO (National AIDS Control Organization) and State AIDS Control Society along with international development partners as well as national development partners have been relentlessly working so hard to achieve the target of eliminating HIV by 2030 where HIV would be no more considered as public health threat and is still working very hard and pursuing continuously and consistently, even going harder and tougher, to achieve its prime objectives. Every effort and plan has been strategized to suit the dynamic nature of the disease and constantly working hard to create new innovative strategies to counter-check or pre-empt and possibly, to eliminate HIV transmission if not eradicate altogether from the surface of planet earth.

(To be concluded) Dr. Nitovi Shikhu Nagaland AIDS Control Society Kohima: Nagaland

There is no doubt that Indian higher education requires reforms

T

he recent litigations against Scihub and Libgen by Elsevier, Wiley and ACS bring us to a moment of many realisations about control and governance of knowledge in academia.

In the latter half of the 20th century, globalisation led to the imperative of applying “global” standards to higher education. As global standards have been unofficially understood as the prevailing practices in American and European institutions, this has posed a serious dilemma for institutions in the global south.

Such parameters are often not compatible with the educational systems that have historically evolved in countries like India, with a colonial past and a persisting “non-industrial” present.

Precise point-based measurements currently applied to measure knowledge production appear to be misplaced in knowledge ecosystems of the global south. Moreover, the larger question, whether such precise measurements, akin to parameters measuring industrial productivity, help in assessing the relevance of knowledge created and disseminated in any societal context, including those with an industrial culture like in Europe and America, remains unanswered.

In India, UGC has been the regulatory body responsible for maintaining standards in higher education, while addressing challenges of globalisation. Processes of UGC mandated “standardisation” have in particular impacted social sciences and humanities research in Indian univer-

sities. Over the years, UGC has linked institutional funding to ranking and accreditation systems like NAAC and NIRF. In order to evaluate institutions, these bodies have evolved “objective” criteria, which rank universities based on faculty research measured by citations in global journal databases like SCOPUS. Even for faculty promotions and eligibility for research supervision, it is articles published in such databases that are considered valid. In comparison, importance granted to research outputs like books or other forms is declining.

The insistence of publication in journals fails to distinguish between the varied trajectory of disciplines. It is more of an imposition of STEM (science, technology, engineering and management) criteria on social sciences and humanities. While in STEM disciplines, research is often highly objective and quantified, and conclusions can be published more easily as reports, short studies or articles, in social sciences and humanities research is subjective, analytical and argumentative. Within social sciences, too, there are some disciplines like economics where research methods can possibly be more empirical and quantitative. On the other hand, in disciplines like history, sociology, politics, philosophy, psychology and literature, researchers spend years writing books that engage with ideas in complex ways. The same is always not possible in a series of articles published over years. In devaluing books as authentic forms of research,

UGC does major disservice to doyens of social sciences and humanities whose globally acclaimed books have contributed significantly to knowledge building.

Tyranny of “peer review” is another phenomenon that haunts scholars.

Since continuous production and publication has become necessary for professional growth, teachers spend most of their productive time writing articles and getting them published, thereby missing out on quality engagement with pedagogy and research.

This has led to a surfeit of articles on any possible subject competing with each other for citations. Moreover, with long review processes associated with journal articles, it is not really as efficient a measure of research output as is claimed.

While professional growth in universities bases itself on quantified indices, the process of peer review itself is subjective, and depends upon the knowledge, inclination and availability of time of the particular reviewer.

It is not unheard of getting two opposite reviews for the same article, sometimes even expecting an author to revise the entire argument that she may be making. Researchers in interdisciplinary areas face even greater challenges as their reviewers might come from conventional fields.

It is often quite challenging for scholars to meet peerreview standards of A-listed journals. This has actually required the UGC to expand its own list, ending up including and subsequently deleting a large number of locally pub-

lished journals. Further, the ghettoisation of research in paywalled journal databases makes research inaccessible for students as universities continue to cut down library budgets. Students and teachers, access articles through pirated sites like Libgen and Scihub, prone to be shut down at any point of time as evident from the litigations. Clearly, access to knowledge is structurally made inequitable in favour of the elite and/or moneyed institutions and their constituents.

To be sure, when we ideate about the outcome of research, it is not simply a case of books versus articles. The above arguments maintain for the possible multiplicity that can emerge as the end-result of research.

There are those seminal journal articles that are profusely

cited for decades and there are exceptional books that have survived centuries of ideation. In addition, interdisciplinary and practice-based research can throw up social and ecological experiments, artworks and performances, and numerous new outcomes yet to be conceived as research outputs. Any straight-jacketed emphasis on particular forms of research outcomes misses out on the very essence of research, particularly in social sciences and humanities that is a rich and complex engagement of the human mind with the world around.

There is no doubt that Indian higher education requires reforms, but the latter need to be cognizant of the reality of higher education in India. While the UGC hopes to raise the standards to global levels, precarity of employ-

ment, longer teaching hours, a dismal student-teacher ratio, lack of sabbaticals, research and travel grants, access to research facilities and office space, adversely impact the research potential of teachers. “Regulating” research needs to be replaced with “facilitating” research, allowing minds to think and gestate.

Unfortunately, in the era of the hegemony of finance capital, governments globally are under pressure to cut back on expenditure on public institutions, including educational.

Regulations without facilitation will merely bureaucratize the governance of knowledge without generating any path breaking insights.

Tanuja Kothiyal, Arindam Banerjee Banerjee teaches economics and Kothiyal teaches history at Ambedkar University, Delhi.

Reader’s Post

Sir,

Appeal to DC Dimapur for review of auto, taxi fares

With due respect and honour the office of Tenyimi Students’ Union Dimapur would like to bring to your kind notice on the subject cited above. That Sir, as per the guidelines and SOPs given issued your esteemed office the fares of Autos and Taxi has been hiked significantly making the public especially the students bearing the brunt of it.

With everything easing into normal, we would like to appeal to your kind office to review the rates of the fares.

For which magnanimous act of yours, we would be most grateful to you.

Thanking you in anticipation.

Rukewezo Wetsah, President and Asin Rengma Secretary Finance TSUD

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.

AIIMS health worker first to get Covid vaccine in India

A medic administers the first dose of Covishield vaccine to a frontline worker at AIIMS in New Delhi, Saturday. (PTI)

workers will be borne by the central government.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan was also present during the starting of one of the world’s largest vaccination drive.

AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria also received COVID-19 vaccine jab at AIIMS, Delhi.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched on Saturday one of the world’s largest vaccination campaigns, as part of efforts by the populous nation to bring the COVID-19 pandemic under control starting with two locally-manufactured shots.

Modi, who addressed healthcare workers through video conferencing, will not immediately take the vaccine himself as India is

Dasgupta, a diabetic, was rushed to the state-run J J Hospital here from the Taloja Central Prison in Navi Mumbai.

Mumbai, Jan 16 (PTI): Partho Dasgupta, a former CEO of TV ratings agency BARC who was arrested in the Television Rating Points (TRP) rigging case, has been admitted to the ICU of a hospital here after his sugar level shot up, officials said on Saturday.

His daughter took to Twitter to allege that he was tortured in prison, and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others to `save his life’.

Dasgupta, a diabetic, was rushed to the state-run J J Hospital here from the Taloja Central Prison in Navi Mumbai around midnight after his blood sugar levels shot up, a prison official said.

He was admitted to the ICU and was on oxygen support, the official said.

Dasgupta, former CEO of Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) was arrested in the alleged TRP rigging scam by crime branch of the Mumbai Police on December 24 last year.

Shah briefs WB BJP about roadmap to win 200 seats

Amit Shah (File)

Chakraborty.

Sources said that the meeting lasted for around two hours and Shah took feedback from the leaders about the seats where Trinamool Congress (TMC)

has the stronghold. While stressing at giving respect to the party loyalist, Union Home Minister said a campaign should be run to connect new workers with the party to strengthen the

organisation in the state.

Shah appealed all the leaders to work together like they worked in 2019 in order to win 200 seats in the upcoming state Assembly elections. Party’s national president JP Nadda recently launched a ‘ek mutthi chawal’ campaign to connect with the farmers during his visit to West Bengal.

In the wake of ongoing farmers’ protest, Shah has asked the party leaders of all the states to connect with the farmers and inform them about the work done by the Modi government for the farmers.

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N.B: Application with CV can be submitted through the email : cmhsphek4@gmail.com Interview for Mathematics Teacher will be held at: Great Commission Higher Secondary School, 4th Mile, near Referral Hospital, Dimapur.

Contact: 9366134181 / 9856305355 Interview for Political Subject Teacher will be held at: Christian Mission Higher Secondary School, Bethany-I, Phek Town. Contact: 8787611242 Date of Interview: 29/01/2021. Time: 10:00 A.M (Same date and timing at the respective location).

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explained the official.

Sporting an upper receiver made from aircraftgrade aluminium and lower receiver of carbon fibre, the pistol has been manufactured through 3D printing process including trigger components made by 3D metal printing.

The barrel is 8 inches long with 33 rounds of highcapacity magazine and the weapon fires the in-service 9 mm ammunition.

“The weapon has a huge potential in the armed forces as a personal weapon for commanders, tank and aircraft crew, radio-radar operators, other categories of security workers, besides VVIP protection and policing duties and in the civilian domain,” said the official.

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Nagpur, Jan 16 (IANS): Nagpur-based Indian Army officer Lt Col Prasad Bansod has developed the country’s first indigenous 9 mm ‘Machine Pistol’, an official said here on Saturday.

Working with the Infantry School, Mhow (Madhya Pradesh), Bansod, 39, developed the pistol in a record four months with assistance from ARDE, Pune.

Named ‘ASMI’ - symbolising pride and self-respect - the machine pistol’s empty weight is less than 2 kgs and it costs less than Rs 50,000.

Unlike the conventional pistols which can fire only one round at a time, ‘ASMI’ can also fire in a machinemode its entire load of 33 rounds in one shot, almost like a mini-machine gun,

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Lt Col Prasad Bansod with 9 mm ‘Machine Pistol’.

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New Delhi, Jan 16 (IANS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting with West Bengal core committee at his residence and briefed them about the roadmap to win 200 seats in the state.

He asked them to run a campaign at the booth level to associate more workers with the party.

Shah’s model of ‘panna pramukh’ will also be adopted in West Bengal. Every worker will be given the responsibility to woe the voters in favour of the party.

According to sources, the issue of the disgruntled MPs and MLAs of TMC willing to join the BJP was also discussed.

The meeting was earlier scheduled to be held at party’s headquarters at 3 p.m. but later it was decided that the meeting will be held at Shah’s residence. All the prominent West Bengal BJP leaders reached his residence at 6 p.m. for the meeting which was attended by party’s national vice president Mukul Roy, national general secretary and incharge of West Bengal Kailash Vijayvargiya, state president Dilip Ghosh and state organisation general secretary Amitabh

A Mumbai court had earlier this month rejected his bail plea, stating that he appeared to have played a vital role in the scam to rig TRP as per the police’s case. The Mumbai Police had earlier told the court that Republic TV Editor-inChief Arnab Goswami had allegedly bribed Dasgupta with “lakhs of rupees” to ramp up the news channel’s viewership numbers fradulently.

On Saturday, Pratyusha Dasgupta, Dasgupta’s daugther, demanded that he be shifted to a reputed private hospital.

She tweeted a message titled “A helpless daughter’s anguished appeal”, tagging PM Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah, the PMO as well as Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray.

Her mother received a call around 3 am on Saturday informing that her father had been brought to the hospital in unconscious state around 1 pm on Friday, she said.

New Delhi, Jan 16 (PTI): A group of 100 former civil servants wrote an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday raising questions over transparency in the PM-CARES Fund.

They said it is necessary that, for reasons of probity and adherence to standards of public accountability, the financial details of receipts and expenditures be made available in order to avoid doubts of wrongdoing.

“We have been keenly following the ongoing debate about the Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations, or ‘PM-CARES’, -- a fund created for the benefit of people affected by the COVID pandemic. Both the purpose for which it has been created as well as the way it has been administered have left a number of questions unanswered,” they said in the letter. “It is essential that the position and stature of the Prime Minister is kept intact by ensuring total transparency in all dealings the Prime Minister is associated with,” they said. The letter was signed by former IAS officers Anita Agnihotri, S P Ambrose, Sharad Behar, Sajjad Hassan, Harsh Mander, P Joy Oommen, Aruna Roy, former diplomats Madhu Bhaduri, K P Fabian, Deb Mukharji, Sujatha Singh and former IPS officers A S Dulat, P G J Nampoothiri and Julio Ribeiro among others.

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NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (AGENCIES): The COVID-19 vaccination drive began in India with a health worker from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) becoming the first person in the country to get the covid-19 vaccine, reports Live Mint.

Doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers are first in the line to get the covid-19 vaccine.

According to the government, the shots will be offered first to an estimated one crore healthcare workers and around two crore frontline workers, and then to persons above 50 years of age, followed by persons younger than 50 years of age with associated comorbidities.

The cost of vaccination of healthcare and frontline

initially prioritising nurses, doctors and others on the front line.

India, home to 1.3 billion people, has the world’s second-largest caseload, and the government has given approvals to two vaccines -- though one is yet to complete clinical trials -- aiming to inoculate around 300 million people by July.

Authorities say they are drawing on their experience with elections and child immunisation programmes for the drive, which is a daunting task in an enormous, impoverished nation with often shoddy transport infrastructure and one of the world’s worst-funded healthcare systems.

Union Health Minister Dr HarshVardhan said the two vaccines – the indigenous Covaxin from Bharat Biotech and Covishield from the Oxford/AstraZeneca stable - were a ‘sanjivani’, life infusing, in the fight against the pandemic.

“These vaccines are our ‘sanjivini’ in our fight against the pandemic. We have won the battle against polio and now we have reached the decisive phase of winning the war against Covid. I want to congratulate all frontline workers on this day,” Vardhan told reporters shortly after the vaccine shots were administered.

5 Ex-CEO of BARC Partho Dasgupta, 100 former IAS Army officer develops first question PMhospitalised after arrest 9 mm ‘Machine Pistol’ CARES Fund national

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

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165 MILITARY HOSPITAL

Applications are invited from medical dealers for renewal/fresh registration along with certified copies of following documents:i) Drug License ii) Registration Certificate and photo of shop iii) Proof of ownership with photo iv) GST/TIN & PAN No. v) Authorization certificates of firms. vi) Last three Income Tax Certificates vii) Proof of Govt./Institute supplier viii) Undertaking to supply at a short notice. ix) ECS Mandate Form x) E-Portal ID xi) Supply order of Govt. organization xii) Certificate for cold chain/storage facility xiii) Police verification/affidavit against outstanding litigation xiv) Three specimen signature on Firm letter head. xv) GeM registration ID Vendors desirous of participating, will have to apply to the Commanding Officer, 165 MIL Hosp. C/o 99 APO, by 15 Feb 2021, on an application on firm letter pad specifying the particular category.

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national/state

Consent form for Covaxin recipients

Cold wave in parts of UP, Churk records C Assures compensation in case of adverse events Lu c2.6k ndegrees ow Jan 1 6

Su doku

KAKURO

561 beneficiaries inoculated with Covishield jabs in State

Yesterday’s solution No. 4422

No. 3447 Yesterday’s solution No. 3446

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administered after 28 days, adding that the actual efficacy would come after 48 days. He said that if it was a live vaccine, then one must be careful but it was a recombinant vaccine and therefore it was safe.

Mission director national health mission (NHM) Dr. Kevichusa Medikhrü in his introductory note said vaccination drive would be conducted in nine sites where about 900 persons would receive the vaccine. Earlier, NBCC general secretary Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho pronounced dedicatory prayer before launching the vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccine rollout in Dimapur: State health and family welfare (H&FW) minister, S Pangnyu Phom launched the COVID-19 vaccination drive at District Hospital Dimapur (DHD) on Saturday with Pathologist, DHD, Dr. Temsu, receiving the first Covid-19 vaccine dose.

Speaking at the launch programme, Phom said that vaccine had undergone all pre-clinical and clinical stages as with any other vaccine development. Health minister also stated that the vaccine has been evaluated to be very safe for use in for general population by Drug Controller General of India.

“The vaccine has been found to have more than 70 % efficacy from clinical trials with good levels of immunogenicity and scientists

have maintained that the vaccine will be efficacious even with new strains,” Phom said, adding that vaccine was already in use in United Kingdom in the general population.

Further, he said that district wise distribution of vaccine doses was as per allocation from Health Ministry. He said that vaccination activities would be carried in identified health units, both government and private sector, in the subsequent days.

H&FW principal director Dr. Vizole Z Suokhrie, in his address, stated that Covishield vaccine had undergone various tests and trials and it was being purported to be utilized for mass public. He, however, said that the vaccine would not be used for people below 18 years of age.

Dr. Suokhrie said that like any other vaccine immunization, some beneficiaries might undergo slight headache, fever, restlessness, etc. However, he reiterated that the vaccine has been tested and has been found to have more than 70% efficacy from clinical trials.

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opment (RD), Metsubo Jamir, in his speech, expressed hope that the Covishield vaccine would effective for “our people and also free us from the shackle of Covid-19 fear, apprehension and misunderstood perception.”

DC Dimapur, Rajesh Soundararajan, in a brief note, expressed gratitude to doctors, nurses and all health care workers for the sacrifices rendered during the pandemic.

Delivering a brief report, DPO, UIP/RCH, Dr. Rebecca Y Sema informed that Dimapur had identified 21 session sites for the vaccination drive, with 13 in public and eight in private facilities carrying out 54 sessions over period of five days.

During the first phase of vaccination, 4894 individuals have been identified to be vaccinated. Out of the total, 100 beneficiaries consist of doctors, nurses and staff of DHD. Earlier, the programme was chaired by chief medical officer (CMO) Dimapur, Dr. Mereninla Senlem and invocation for the launching programme was offered by chaplain DHD, Rev. Yhunlo Thong.

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leaders to discuss and give the opinion as Nagaland being a majority Christian state, there was possibilities of creating fear among people.

The first COVID-19 beneficiary Dr. Sentimeren Aonok, a consultant in NHAK, said it was a small and painless procedure to save life. He said that citizens should not fear taking the vaccine.

Speaking to media persons after taking the vaccine at NHAK, Dr. Aonok said there were many views and opinions on the vaccination, but assured that it was a “kill vaccine and not live vaccine because of which we can confidently say it is safe”.

To a query, he said the second dose would be

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(From p-1) According to the chief minister, the Covishield vaccine has 75% efficiency of clinical trials, which indicated good level of immunogenicity and has sufficient anti-bodies against COVID-19. He informed that a person has to get registered to government portal to receive the vaccine that required two doses and said after 42 days the vaccine efficacy would be known. He appealed the citizens not to feel panicky or deprived as vaccination would be carried out phase wise.

On the prophecy that was widely circulated in social media, Rio said during the visit of church leaders in his residence, he had suggested that senior church

No. 9804 Yesterday’s solution No. 9803

No. 4423

He appealed for continued prayer for those infected and the sick under medical care as Nagaland needs healing. Dr. Keyho also appealed for prayer for God’s comfort to families who have lost their loved ones to the pandemic. “Let us not allow our faith to become a mockery” and prayed for God’s mercy and wisdom to discern the truth from falsehood.

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Crossword

SRINAGAR, JAN 16 (AGENCIES): History will remember Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for standing up to the “present dictatorial regime”, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti said on Saturday.

Taking to Twitter, Mufti said it is a fact that “new India is in the grip of a select few” and Gandhi is the only politician who dares to speak the truth, reports The Indian Express.

“Ridicule Rahul Gandhi all you want but he”s the only politician who dares to speak the truth. Its a fact that new India is in the grip of a select few & crony capitalists. History will remember him for standing upto the present dictatorial regime (sic),” the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief said.

(From p-1) Dr. Keyho said there was need to learn to discern things; not in one’s wisdom and restlessness, but through the word of God. He said salvation is sealed in the work of Christ on the cross and to say that “our salvation will be taken away because of a vaccination” was contrary to the Bible and in Christian faith.

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this kind of planetarium in all the districts of the state,” Kikon said.

He highlighted the need to innovate, look beyond government service alone and focus on entrepreneurial culture in the state and that the new facility was one small step towards making such progresses in the state. Mmhonlumo said the government was working to catch young minds to foster them and enhance their scientific temperament.

He was optimistic that the planetarium, like the one in Dimapur which is regularly visited by students, would attract students from all parts of the state once it is functional.

The inaugural programme was chaired by principal secretary science & Technology, O.T. Chingmak Chang, while the director, Wonchio Odyuo proposed the vote of thanks and City Church, Kohima, pastor, Kedo Peseyie, invoked God’s blessings. The senior scientific officer gave a brief back ground of the construction.

The committee comprised Bhupinder Singh Mann, national president of Bhartiya Kisan Union; Dr Parmod Kumar Joshi, Director for South Asia, International Food Policy Research Institute; Ashok Gulati, agricultural economist and former chairman of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices; and Anil Ghanwat, president of Shetkari Sanghatana.

However, on January 14, Mann recused himself from the committee.

The Bhartiya Kisan Union Lokshakti, in its reply filed through lawyer A P Singh, urged the top court “to remove all these three members from the committee and appoint those persons who make the report on the basis of mutual harmony....”

Discern prophecy through God’s word: Dr. Z.Keyho

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Planetarium and innovation... History will remember (From p-1) Rahul for standing up to “This kind of facilities would help in nurturing and ensuring that scientific minds are ‘dictatorial regime’: Mufti encouraged and we envision coming up with

seeks to disrupt the gathering and celebrations of Republic Day on January 26.

A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde had agreed to hear on January 18 the Centre’s application against the proposed tractor march. The Bhartiya Kisan Union Lokshakti is one of the 40-odd farmer unions spearheading the agitation on various border points of Delhi for about 50 days now, demanding repeal of the farm laws.

In an “extraordinary” interim order, the top court had stayed the implementation of the new farm laws till further orders and had constituted the four-member committee to listen to the grievances and make recommendations to resolve the impasse.

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Indigenously developed Covaxin of Bharat Biotech was approved by India’s drug regulator for restricted use in emergency situations in public interest, in clinical trial mode, especially in case of infection by mutant strains.

ICMR Director General Dr Balram Bhargava had earlier said that the clinical mode means that all those who would be administered Covaxin would give consent for the vaccine, there would be no placebo and there would be a closer follow up.

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(Bharat Biotech) if the SAE is proven to be causally related to the vaccine,” the form read.

The recipients were also given a factsheet and a form to report adverse effects within seven days.

Those who received the first jabs of Covaxin after signing the form at AIIMs included Director Randeep Guleria and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul, who is also head of an empowered group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle the coronavirus outbreak.

NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): A farmer union requested the Supreme Court on Saturday to remove the remaining three members of the committee it had set up to resolve the impasse over the three contentious farm laws, and select people who can do the job “on the basis of mutual harmony”.

The Bhartiya Kisan Union Lokshakti said the principle of natural justice is going to be violated as those appointed to the four-member committee “have already supported these laws”.

In an affidavit, it also sought dismissal of a plea of the central government, filed though the Delhi Police, seeking an injunction against the proposed tractor march or any other kind of protest by farmers which

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The consent letter by Bharat Biotech.

In the national capital, the COVID-19 vaccination exercise began at 81 centres with healthcare workers who have been in the forefront of the fight against the pandemic getting the shots first.

The 81 sites include six central government facilities -- All India Institute Of Medical Science, Safdarjung Hospital, RML Hospital, Kalawati Saran Children Hospital and two ESI hospitals.

The rest 75 centres, spanning all 11 districts of Delhi, include Delhi government-run facilities such as LNJP Hospital, GTB Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital, DDU Hospital, BSA Hospital, Delhi State Cancer Institute, ILBS Hospital, and private facilities such as Max Hospital, Fortis Hospital, Apollo Hospital and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

Oxford COVID-19 vaccine Covishield is being administered at 75 centres, while Covaxin is being given at the remaining six facilities.

Farmer union in SC: Remove remaining members of panel, select new people

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NEW DELHI, JAN 16 (PTI): Health workers who got their first shots of Covaxin at All India Institute Of Medical Science (AIIMS) on Saturday were made to sign a consent form that promised compensation in case of a “severe adverse event” related to the vaccine.

Covaxin has demonstrated the ability to produce antibodies against COVID-19 in phase one and phase two trials.

“However, the clinical efficacy is yet to be established and it is still being studied in phase 3 clinical trial,” the form read.

Hence, it is important to appreciate that receiving the vaccine does not mean that other precautions related to COVID-19 need not be followed, it said.

Authorities said in case of any adverse event, the affected person will be provided medically-recognised standard of care in the government-designated hospitals.

“The compensation for a serious adverse event will be paid by sponsor

(PTI): Cold wave conditions prevailed at isolated pockets in Uttar Pradesh while “dense fog” to “very dense fog” occurred at a few places in the state, the Meteorological (MeT) Department here said on Saturday.

According to the India Meteorological Department, a “very dense” fog is when the visibility is between 0 and 50 metres.

In case of a “dense” fog, the visibility is between 51 and 200 metres.

The MeT office here said the lowest temperature in Uttar Pradesh was 2.6 degrees Celsius, recorded at Churk observatory, while Jhansi registered a high of 24.2 degree Celsius -- the highest in the state.

Cold day to severe cold day conditions occurred at isolated places in East UP. Day temperatures fell appreciably in Gorakhpur division; rose appreciably in Meerut division and there was no major change in the remaining divisions of the state, MeT Department officials said.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

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6

I, Smti. Loreni, D/o. Shri. Yanpemo, permanent resident of Pangti Village, district Wokha, Nagaland do hereby declared that I have changed my father’s name from Khontsungo to Yanpemo through an Affidavit Regd. No. 64/2021, dated 15/01/2021.

Deponent (Loreni) Notary Public (Oren Humtsoe) WC-16

7

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

Aftershock rocks Indonesia UK to close all travel corridors from Monday quake zone as search continues

London, Jan 16 (PTI): All travel corridors in place between the UK and some regions will be temporarily closed from Monday as part of efforts to curb the spread of new coronavirus variants from countries such as Brazil and South America.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Friday evening that passengers coming to the UK from anywhere must now have proof of a mandatory pre-departure COVID-19 test taken at least 72 hours earlier and self-isolate for at least 10 days on arrival.

All passengers will continue to be required to fill in locator forms, with the fines in place for a breach in any of the lockdown conditions starting at 200 pounds.

“To protect us against the risk of as yet unidentified new strains, we will also temporarily close all travel corridors from 0400 hrs on Monday. Following conversations with the devolved administrations, we will act together so that this applies across the whole of UK,” said Johnson.

“This means that if

Passengers coming to the UK must have proof of a mandatory pre-departure COVID19 test. (AFP)

you come to this country, you must have proof of a negative Covid test that you have taken in the 72 hours before leaving and you must have filled in your Passenger Locator Form, and your airline will ask for proof of both before you take off. You may also be checked when you land and face substantial fines for refusing to comply,” he said.

“And, upon arrival, you must then quarantine for 10 days – not leaving your home for any reason at all, or take another test on day 5 and wait for proof

of another negative result.

And we will be stepping up our enforcement – both at the border and in-country,” he added.

International travel corridors have been in place since July 2020 for countries and territories, which included India for some time, where analysis suggested the risk of Covid-19 can be mitigated.

India had suspended its corridor with the UK at the end of last year when a new highly transmissible variant was detected in London and has since resumed some limited number of

Child labour decreased by 38% : ILO

Geneva, Jan 16 (IANS): The International Labour Organization (ILO), a Geneva-based UN agency, announced that child labour has decreased by 38 per cent in the last decade but warned that the raging Covid-19 pandemic has considerably worsened the situation with 152 million children still affected. In a statement issued on Friday, the ILO said that the Covid-19 crisis has brought additional poverty to these already vulnerable populations and may reverse years of progress in the fight against child labour, reports Xinhua news agency.

“School closures have aggravated the situation and many millions of children are working to contribute to the family income. The pandemic has also made women, men and children more vulnerable to exploitation,” the Organization said.

ILO data showed that progress across regions is uneven. Almost half of child labour happens in Africa (72 million children), followed

by Asia and the Pacific (62 million). Meanwhile, 70 per cent of children in child labour work in agriculture, mainly in subsistence and commercial farming and livestock herding, the report said. Almost half of all these children work in occupations or situations considered haz-

ILO data showed that progress across regions is uneven.

ardous for their health and lives. The ILO said that “joint and decisive action could reverse this trend”.

Together with other partners, the ILO has launched the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour in 2021 in a bid to encourage legislative and practical actions to eradicate child labour worldwide. “There is no place for child labour in society. It robs children of their future and keeps families in poverty,” ILO Director-General Guy Ryder said in the statement. “This International Year is an opportunity for governments to step up and achieve Target 8.7 of the Sustainable Development Goals by taking concrete actions to eliminate child labour for good. With Covid-19

threatening to reverse years of progress, we need to deliver on promises now more than ever,” he added.

The International Year was unanimously adopted in a UN General Assembly resolution in 2019.

The ILO said that a main aim of the year is to urge governments to do what is necessary to achieve Target 8.7 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Target 8.7 asks members states to take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labour, end modern slavery and human trafficking and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, including the recruitment and use of child soldiers, and by 2025 to end child labour in all its forms.

flights. The UK’s Department for Transport said that the level of risk associated with the emergence of new variants globally has now increased, requiring more stringent measures to block all potential avenues through which new strains of the virus could enter the UK while we consider how best to respond. The latest measures will be in place for at least a month until being reviewed on February 15.

“We are operating in a completely new environment in our fight against COVID-19, with several worrying new strains of the

virus emerging across the globe,” said UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

“Now more than ever, as we make strides vaccinating people up and down the country, we need to take advantage of all measures available to us – and these robust emergency precautions will help us protect the nation to ensure we continue to make progress,” he said.

The move comes as latest figures released by the government reveal that more than 3.2 million people have now been vaccinated. This represents almost 45 per cent of over-80s and nearly 40 per cent of care home residents.

The UK PM praised the National Health Service (NHS) across several regions of the UK which have achieved vaccination targets for millions in the most vulnerable categories, as he urged people to continue to follow the strict lockdown rules because more than 37,000 Covid patients remain in hospital across the UK and another 1,280 deaths have taken the country’s toll from the deadly virus to 87,295.

JAKARTA, Jan 16 (Reuters): An aftershock hit Indonesia’s Sulawesi island on Saturday as rescue workers searched for people trapped under rubble after an earthquake killed at least 45 people, injured hundreds and sent thousands fleeing in terror. Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency said no damage or casualties were reported from the Magnitude 5.0 aftershock in the West Sulawesi districts of Mamuju and Majene a day after the Magnitude 6.2 earthquake.

Agency head Doni Monardo told Kompas TV the search continued for victims who could still be trapped under rubble.

More than 820 people were injured and about 15,000 people have been evacuated, the agency said.

Some have sought refuge in the mountains, while others went to cramped evacuation centres, witnesses said.

Friday’s quake and its aftershocks damaged more than 300 homes and two hotels, as well as flattening a hospital and the office of a

US expects Laschet elected to lead Merkel’s party Jan 16 (AP): the Christian Democratic ‘rapid growth’ BERLIN, C h a n c e l l o r A n g e l a Union. Laschet won 521 center-right party votes to Merz’s 466; a third of virus variant Merkel’s on Saturday chose Armin candidate, prominent law-

Lo n d o n, Ja n 1 6 (Agencies): A highly contagious coronavirus variant first detected in the UK could become the dominant strain in the US by March, health officials have said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned of “rapid growth” of the variant in coming weeks. It said such a spike could further threaten health systems already strained by a winter Covid surge. The warning came on Friday as President-elect Joe Biden unveiled an ambitious plan to ramp up vaccinations. To meet his target of inoculating 100 million Americans within his first 100 days in office, Mr Biden said his administration would take a more active role in accelerating the distribution of vaccines.

He outlined a plan to set up new mass vaccination centres, hire extra health workers, and ensure the shot is available to everyone, including minority communities that have been hit hardest by the epidemic.

Official data shows that, so far, 12.2 million vaccine doses of have been administered in the US - a figure Mr Biden has criticised as insufficient. More than 30 million doses have been distributed to states.

Laschet, the pragmatic governor of Germany’s most populous state, as its new leader — sending a signal of continuity months before an election in which voters will decide who becomes the new chancellor.

Laschet defeated Friedrich Merz, a conservative and one-time Merkel rival, at an online convention of

maker Norbert Roettgen, was eliminated in a first round of voting.

Saturday’s vote isn’t the final word on who will run as the center-right candidate for chancellor in Germany’s Sept. 26 election, but Laschet will either run for chancellor or will have a big say in who does.

regional governor, where authorities told Reuters several people had been trapped.

Access to the neighbouring city of Makassar remains cut off, Arianto Ardi of the search and rescue agency in Mamuju told Reuters, adding that the search will focus on the hotels.

Dwikorita Karnawati, the head of Indonesia’s meteorology and geophysics agency, told Metro TV on Saturday that another quake was possible and could reach a magnitude of

7.0, urging residents to keep out of the water because of the tsunami risk.

The earthquake magnitude scale is logarithmic; a one-point increase means it is 10 times bigger. The difference in energy released is even greater. Straddling the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is regularly hit by earthquakes.

In 2018, a devastating 6.2-magnitude quake and subsequent tsunami struck the city of Palu, in Sulawesi, killing thousands.

HAPPY 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Dear mom and dad,

25 years seem like a long time but life’s merciless routine made it all go by swiftly. To hold up strong through the highs and lows of life is incredibly difficult. But your love has seen and survived it all. Today is a testament to that unfailing love and patience, binded by heavenly favour.

We are incredibly honoured to have been taught how to walk through this life by the two of you.

In this life we are gifted a limited amount of milestones.

So we will all wait here, anticipating and writing many more milestones for the two of you.

Here’s to a love, that was truly meant to be forever.

Happy 25 Anniversary!

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Love, Your children

Signal stops working as downloads surge

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500 million active users globally. Downloads jumped from 6.5 million in the week starting 28 December, to 11 million during the following week. During the same period, WhatsApp’s global downloads shrank from 11.3 million to 9.2 million.

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Signal is a free, encrypted messenger service - and a rival to WhatsApp and Telegram.

low it to share data with its parent company Facebook if they wished to continue using it.

This does not apply to users in the UK and Europe - but the notification was sent to everyone.

WhatsApp stressed that its practice of sharing data with Facebook was not new, and was not being expanded. It said there had been “confusion” about its message, which initially gave people until 8 February to accept its updated terms or stop using the service.

WhatsApp has now changed the cut-off date to 15 May, saying it would use the time to clear up

misinformation. “We can’t see your private messages or hear your calls, and neither can Facebook,” WhatsApp said in an earlier FAQ blog post.

According to data from analytics firm Sensor Tower, Signal was downloaded 246,000 times worldwide in the week before WhatsApp announced the change on 4 January, and 8.8 million times the week after.

In India, downloads went from 12,000 to 2.7 million. In the UK, they leapt from 7,400 to 191,000, and in the US from 63,000 to 1.1 million.

On Wednesday, Telegram said it had surpassed

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Lo n d o n, Ja n 1 6 (Agencies): Messaging platform Signal said on Friday it was experiencing “technical difficulties” as it worked to accommodate millions of new users.

Some users reported messages failing to send on both the mobile and desktop apps for several hours.

The company has seen a huge uptick in interest since its rival WhatsApp unveiled new privacy terms last week.

On Twitter, Signal said it had added servers “at a record pace” and was working to restore service.

“Millions upon millions of new users are sending a message that privacy matters,” it said in a tweet.

Signal is experiencing technical difficulties. We are working hard to restore service as quickly as possible.

Both Signal and Telegram, another free-to-use encrypted messaging app, have benefited from discontent sparked by WhatsApp’s updated terms and conditions.

WhatsApp told its two billion users they must al-

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sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

India 62/2 as rain washes out 3rd session Juggernauts clinch WCC trophy

B r i s ba n e , Ja n 1 6 (IANS): Rain washed out the third session of the second day of the fourth and final Test at the Gabba here on Saturday with India going to stumps at 62 for two in reply to Australia’s 369 in the first innings.

India lost both their openers early as they went to tea at 62 for the loss of Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma’s wickets before heavy downpour caused a deluge in the outfield.

While rain stopped, the groundstaff could not drain off the water and make the ground fit for resumption of play.

Play will resume half an hour early on the third day to make up for the lost overs.

Both the Indian wickets fell in the second session. Shubman Gill was caught at second slip by Steve Smith off the bowling of Pat Cummins when the team score was 11 while Rohit Sharma, who looked good for his 74-ball 44, was caught at long on off the bowling of Nathan Lyon after adding 49 for the second wicket with Cheteshwar Pujara.

Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 369 in their first innings before lunch.

The hosts lost their last five wickets for 58 runs.

Washington Sundar, centre, is congratulated by teammates after talking the wicket of Nathan Lyon, Saturday. (AP/PTI)

Inexperienced India attack shows discipline, earns rave reviews

though the bowling attack was the weakest Indian attack they faced in the last eight Tests against Australia Down Under. The combined experience of the Indian bowlers, prior to this match, was just four Tests.

There were two debutants in Washington Sundar and T Natarajan. Navdeep Saini, into his second Test only, limped off the field on the first day itself.

“I thought they were very consistent. I don’t think you will call that bowling attack weak. You would only call them inex-

West Brom beat Wolves 3-2 in tight derby

Rooney retires, becomes manager at Derby County

Pace bowlers T Natarajan and Shardul Thakur, and off-spinner Washington Sundar took three wickets each.

Resuming at the overnight 274/5, Australia lost Tim Paine (50) at 311 and then Cameron Green (47) at 313. Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc added 39 for the ninth wicket.

BRIE F SC O RES : Australia 369 (M Labuschagne 108, T Paine 50, C Green 47, T Natarajan 3/78, W Sundar 3/89, S Thakur 3/94) vs India 62/2 (Rohit Sharma 44)

The young India pace attack that restricted Australia to below 400 has earned rave reviews for its discipline from not just the seniors in the Indian camp but also from the Australians.

While the Indians had, throughout the series, managed to restrict Australia to within 350, Gabba was the first time the Aussies crossed 350.

The hosts scored 369 al-

Matheus Pereira scored twice from the penalty-spot.

London, Jan 16 (REUTERS): West Bromwich Albion beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-2 in a see-saw Black Country derby in the Premier League on Saturday, with Matheus Pereira scoring twice from the spot.

West Brom opened the scoring when centre-back Willy Boly, back from injury, fouled Callum Robinson in the 7th minute, and Pereira stepped up to convert the penalty, sending Wolves keeper Rui Patricio

the wrong way. Boly made amends towards the end of the first half when his backheeled pass in the box freed up Fabio Silva, who sidefooted the ball past David Button for the 18-year-old’s first goal at home. Minutes later, Boly made it 2-1 when the ball fell to him during a corner kick, leaving Button no chance to make a save as the defender scored from six yards out.

West Brom tur ned things around with two

quick-fire goals after the restart, the first from a long throw-in when Kyle Bartley’s flicked header allowed Semi Ajayi to loop his header past Patricio. The visitors sealed the win when Robinson won another penalty after drawing a foul from defender Conor Coady, and Pereira scored from the spot again.

Results Leeds 0-1 Brighton West Ham 1-0 Burnley

L o n do n , J a n 1 6 (IANS): Manchester United and England great Wayne Rooney retired to become full-time manager at English second-tier team Derby County, the club said on Friday. Rooney (35) has been interim manager at the club since November but has now been given a two-and-ahalf-year contract to take on the role permanently.

“In line with taking up the managerial position, Rooney has elected to call time on his illustrious playing career to fully focus on his job,” said the club in its statement. Rooney earned 120 caps for England and scored 53 goals. He surpassed Bobby Charlton as the highest goalscorer for the country when he scored his 50th international goal from a penalty in a Euro 2016 qualifying match against Switzerland in September 2015. Rooney retired from international football in August 2017 but returned on November 4, 2018 to play one final game for England.

perienced,” said Australia’s assistant coach Andrew McDonald. “I thought Washington Sundar in particular was disciplined. He filled the role of R Ashwin quite well and kept it tight and was able to take key wickets along the way. For me, his ability to control the tempo of the game was the thing that stood out. Natarajan shaped the ball early.

There is a lot to like about him. He is inexperienced.

They held their own, applied pressure throughout the innings. They made it difficult at times and bounced back to take key wickets,” he continued. India opening batsman Rohit Sharma said that the bowlers despite having little Test experience showed a lot of discipline.

“Considering the (little) experience that we have in our bowling line-up, they kept the pressure. I thought they showed lot of discipline. They maintained that area where we spoke of bowling to the opposition. So, overall, if I have to analyse the performance of each of these bowlers I thought they bowled pretty well,” said Rohit after the end of the second day’s play. The 33-year-old batsman marked Natarajan for special praise, especially for his calm temperament.

Juggernauts players with the trophy in Wokha on Saturday.

D I M A P U R , JAN 1 6 (NPN): Juggernauts lifted the trophy of the 25th edition of Winter Cricket Challenge (WCC) after defeating Imperials by five wickets in Wokha on Saturday.

Electing to bat first after winning the toss, Imperials set 100 runs target for Juggernauts with Abemo Kikon scoring 52 runs from 60 balls.

But that was not enough, as Juggernauts batsmen made notable contributions and won the match by five wickets in 17 overs.

Hakao Murry, who claimed two wickets and delivered inexpensive 8 runs in 4 overs was named the man of the match.

The tournament was organised by Senior Noble Klan. It may be recalled that in the middle part of 1996, five members of district cricket players formed a group called “Senior Noble Klan” with a mission to guide and nurture the upcoming local young cricketers.

The first edition of Winters Cricket Challenge commenced on December 26, 1996 with seven teams.

The WCC was held at a time when the popularity of cricket was in its nascent stage among the locals.

But with its introduction, the history of the game in Wokha town underwent tremendous change and gradually accelerated its popularity not only in Wokha district but also in other parts of Nagaland as well as the neighbouring states.

The present SNK is headed by Pankathung Ovung as president and Penthungo Lotha as general secretary.

Bucks beat Mavericks; LeBron stars in Lakers win Los Angeles, Jan 16 (AFP): Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 31 points and had nine rebounds to power the Milwaukee Bucks to a 112-109 victory over Luka Doncic’s Dallas Mavericks in a battle between the two early frontrunners for NBA Most Valuable Player honours.

Two-time MVP winner Antetokounmpo hit 14-of-21 shots from the floor and Khris Middleton finished with 25 points for the host Bucks, who have won seven of their last eight games.

Doncic shot 12-of-24 from the floor for a teamhigh 28 points after coming off a 34-point performance in a win over Charlotte two nights earlier.

After Milwaukee’s Brook Lopez missed a free throw with one second left, Doncic launched a desperation two-handed three-point attempt at the buzzer but it hit the backboard and bounced harmlessly away to give Milwaukee the win.

Middleton drained a

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James defends against New Orleans Pelicans guard Kira Lewis Jr. (AP)

pair of clutch three-pointers late in the fourth quarter.

He also had eight rebounds and six assists. The former second-round draft pick was traded to the Bucks in 2013 from Detroit.

Jrue Holiday had 16 points and Lopez added 11 points and 11 rebounds for the Bucks, who overcame Antetokounmpo’s one-for10 shooting from the free throw line.

Doncic also had 13 assists and Tim Hardaway added 22 points for the Mavericks, who had their four-game winning streak snapped.

Antetokounmpo against Doncic wasn’t the only marquee matchup on a night when the league had to postpone three games because of a series of coronavirus outbreaks.

Four-time NBA champion LeBron James took on former first overall draft pick Zion Williamson and after the slow start, the host Lakers rolled to a 112-95 win over the Pelicans.

James had 21 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds, Anthony Davis finished with 17 points and a half dozen Lakers finished in double figure scoring.

Mumbai, Hyderabad play out goalless draw NBC sports ministry hosts Unity Cup T-20 New Delhi, Jan 16 (Agencies): Hyderabad FC shut out tabletopper Mumbai City FC in an enthralling goalless draw in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim on Saturday.

The Nizams managed its first cleansheet in nine outings, and in the process stopped Mumbai’s run of having scored a goal in its last nine matches. The point extended Mumbai’s lead at the top to six, with second-placed ATK Mohun Bagan playing again on Sunday, The Hindu report stated.

Despite having 59 per cent possession in the opening 45 minutes, a Hugo Boumous-less Mumbai struggled to create many openings with Hyderabad denying it space to work with. Its best chance came in the 11th minute when Bipin Singh was played through on goal, but his extra touch allowed the rightback Asish Rai to make a crucial tackle. Hyderabad had the best chances in the half, finding the target

break, Chianese beat the offside line to race on to Mohammed Yasir’s lobbed ball over the top, but Amrinder denied the forward with an outstretched foot.

Mumbai’s only shot of the half came in the 45th-minute mark, when Adam le Fondre curled a shot from distance into the hands of Laxmikant Kattimani.

After the restart, a tired Mumbai’s frustrations were compounded

by Hyderabad’s disciplined approach. Passes were being misplaced, shots being taken from outside the box and clumsy fouls were being committed.

Even when Hyderabad made a mistake it went unpunished. Centreback Chinglensana Singh was robbed off the ball by Raynier Fernandes and was hurtling through on goal but Odei Onaindia made a last-ditch, sliding tackle to dispossess the CY Goddard of Mumbai City FC and Akash Mishra of Hyderabad FC battle for the attacker. ball on Saturday. ( ISL) SUNDAY’S MATCHES NorthEast United Vs on four occasions without HFC attackers in better from a narrow angle, inJamshedpur: 5 pm scoring. Liston Colaco goal-scoring positions, stead of squaring the ball Goa Vs ATK Mohun was released down the the winger struck a shot to a teammate.

Bagan: 7:30 pm right side and with two straight at Amrinder Singh Right after the water

Special guest and others at the opening ceremony on Saturday.

D I M A P U R , JAN 1 6 (NPN): The 6th Unity Cup T-20 Cricket tournament, organized by Nepali Baptist Church (NBC) Chümoukedima sports ministry, got underway in Chümoukedima on January 16.

Held on the theme “Solidarity for peace”, the opening ceremony was graced by senior physiotherapist (CISHR), Sanam Rana PT as special guest.

In his address, Sanam encouraged the players

to compete in true game spirit which was not only about wining but to develop sports culture and realizing their hidden talents and strength.

He also wished the organizers and players the best in their future endeavour. Convenor of Unity Cup, Samuel Mizar in his welcome address gave a brief highlight on the foundation of Unity Cup. He informed all the participating teams to follow SOPs throughout the tourna-

ment. Teams which fail to follow the COVID-19 SOPs will be suspended from the tournament.

All together 25 teams have registered and will be vying for title which will be continue till February 3 at Chümoukedima local ground. Meanwhile, an exhibition match between Gorkhas of Chümoukedima and Chümoukedima Chamber of Commerce was played, where the former won the match by eight wickets.

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