Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com
Vol XXX No. 231
DIMAPUR, MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00
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8-day total lockdown in Dimapur begins Another die of suspected COVID
The main commercial center of Dimapur wears a deserted look on Sunday. (NP)
Staff Reporter/Correspondent duty when contacted, said
DIMAPUR/KOHIMA, JUL 26 (NPN): It was a quiet Sunday in Dimapur, the first day of the eight-day total lockdown as roads were bereft of vehicles and pedestrians. The lockdown’s objective was to curb the spread of Covid-19, carry out effective contact tracing, detection of suspected cases and implementation of isolation measures. To effect the lockdown, several localities in Dimapur also voluntarily sealed the entry and exit points. Police personnel on
that it was a positive sign that people voluntarily remained indoors. Police also sought further cooperation of public by adhering to lockdown guidelines as notified till August 2. As per the lockdown measures-- all categories of shops are to remain closed except pharmacies. All public movement has been prohibited, except medical emergencies. Day 2 of lockdown in Kohima: The second day of the 7-day total lockdown of all municipal areas (19 wards) in Kohima passed off peacefully on Sunday.
The total lockdown began on July 25 and will end on July 31. The state capital also wore a deserted look as citizens were aware of the situation where 28 fresh COVID cases were detected in Kohima on Sunday. Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Panchayat (AKMWP) also urged the public not to panic but to follow all lockdown measures and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) notified by the state government in order to contain the spread of Covid-19 infection in the state capital.
Another patient, who had tested positive for COVID-19 died Sunday afternoon in Dimapur District COVID-19 Hospital. According to reports, the 82-year old patient, was admitted to the COVID19 hospital Dimapur on July 18. The patient had multiple health issues (comorbidities) such as-- diabetes, a history of open-heart surgery, pulmonary tuberculosis and chronic bilateral pneumonia etc. The patient had earlier tested positive for COVID through TrueNat and a confirmation through RT-PCR on July 20 also returned positive. As per report, the patient’s ARDS chest x-ray showed “bilateral massive lung consolidation and tissue damage, typical of COVID positive”. With this, the tally of COVID-19 related deaths rose to six since July 21. Incidentally, all deaths have been reported from Dimapur district. Of six, two were residents of Assam (a 72-year old man who died of co-morbidity and a 32-year old married woman). It was reported that the patient who died on Sunday, was a resident of Ward No. 18 Zeliangrong colony. He was
Diesel prices up State COVID tally crosses 1300-mark again, petrol static COVID-19 STATUS AS ON july 26, 2020 DIMAPUR, JUL 26 (NPN): Diesel price on Sunday was hiked by 15 paise per litre, according to a price notification of stateowned oil marketing companies. This took the retail selling price in the national capital to the highest ever rate of Rs 81.94 per litre. Meanwhile, in Dimapur the price of diesel cost Rs. 79.41 a litre while in the state capital Kohima a litre of diesel cost Rs. 80.08. However, rates vary from state to state depending on the incidence of local sales tax or VAT. This is the second consecutive day of price increase. Rates were hiked by 15 paise on Saturday. The price increase on Saturday came after a four-day hiatus in rate revision. Prices of petrol have remained static for almost four weeks. Petrol rates were last changed on June 29. Prior to hitting the freeze button, petrol price had been increased on 21 occasions since the oil companies reverted to daily price revision on June 7. Diesel rates have continued to be revised sporadically in July. The cumulative increase in diesel price since June 7 now totals Rs 12.55 per litre.
This is it!
“We have set up anticrime cell, special cell etc but now everything depends on almighty.” K Y M C
District Dimapur
ACTIVE CASES Recov- Total AsympICU On Mild Moderate Death ered Cases tomatic Ventilator 360 1 1 1 4* 163 530
Kiphire
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Kohima
212
0
0
0
0
122
334
Longleng
1
0
0
0
0
2
3
Mokokchung
9
0
0
0
0
4
13
Mon
124
0
0
0
0
8
132
Peren
56
1
0
0
0
194
251
Phek
4
0
0
0
0
14
18
Tuensang
7
0
0
0
0
38
45
Wokha
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
Zunheboto
8
0
0
0
0
4
12
Total
782
2
1
1
4
549
1339
*4 deaths from Dimapur is yet to be established as due to COVID-19
DIMAPUR, JUL 26 (NPN): Nagaland’s tally surpassed the 1300-mark on Sunday after 50 fresh COVID-19 cases were reported from across the state. According to state Health department, the tally as on July 26 stood at 1339 cases-- 786 active, 549 recovered and 4 deaths
(still under investigation for establishing whether they are COVID-19 related deaths) In his tweet, Health minister S. Pangnyu Phom said 50 new cases were detected from 328 samples. He said 28 cases were reported from Kohima, Mon-13 and Dimapur-9.
initially treated at Shamrock Hospital then shifted to Nikos Hospital. He was later taken to Eden Hospital and admitted to ICU and intubated after being diagnosed with pneumonia. The first COVID-19 test of the patient through TrueNat at Eden hospital laboratory was positive for COVID-19. He was then immediately shifted to the district COVID hospital and admitted to the ICU and put under ventilator. Later swab samples tested through RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19. Following the result , DC Dimapur ordered temporary sealing of Shamrock Hospital; ICU & emergency ward of Nikos Hospital; ICU block of Eden Hospital; H.No. 15, Ward-18, Zeliangrong colony (Dhobinalla) and nearby buildings. Meanwhile, it was reported that all Standard Operating Procedures were undertaken in handling the body of the patient by the dead body management committee of the district hospital. It was also learnt that the body was handed over to the district authorities on Sunday night for burial at the new Naga cemetery at Zani village area Dimapur.
Largest fusion plant in France to create history international, Page 7
India projected to have 35 lakh COVID-19 cases by September Spl. Correspondent
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (NPN): While Kerala has been a model state for containment of COVID-19 yet its chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has openly acknowledged that community transmission has already taken place. Despite Viyajan choosing to be upfront on the virus, the Centre’s ‘denial mode’ on admitting community transmission is a big damper. The Centre’s continued denial of community transmission is also a hurdle to public awareness on the gravity of the crisis. Though there still seems to be a great reluctance to admit the fact that the novel Coronavirus epidemic in India was well into the stage of community transmission, more and more states seem to be realising that it was becoming increasingly untenable to outrightly deny the possibility. A grave scenario was projected by the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru which claimed that the number of COVID-19 cases would exceed 3.5 million by Sep-
tember 1,2020 and could even further rise as high as 12 million by November 1. The IISc study by a group of noted scientists says that by the New Year on January 1, 2021, India would have possibly reached close to 30 million infected cases (over 6 million ‘active’ cases and 1 million fatalities). The pandemic is not expected to ‘peak’ before March 2021 . This is an apocalyptic scenario. The international community anticipates a massive crisis spiralling out of control and is closely watching India, which accounts for one-sixth of humanity The Newshour programme on BBC Radio World Service gave top billing to the pandemic ravaging India. The highlights of the discussion: - The rate at which the infection is going up in India is ‘worrisome’. - There are many more infections that are to be counted beyond the official figures. - Vast cities like Mumbai and Delhi are the worst hit but the pandemic is spreading to other cities and
Threat of COVID far from over, warns PM With over 48k new COVID cases, NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): India’s COVID-19 recovery rate is better compared to other countries and its case fatality rate is much less as well, but the threat of the deadly virus is far from over, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday. In his monthly ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address, he also said that at many places, the virus is spreading fast and people need to be extra vigilant. “The threat of the coronavirus is far from being over. At many places, it is spreading fast. We need to be extra vigilant. We have to bear in mind that the coronavirus is as fatal today as it was in the beginning. That is why we have to be fully cautious,” Modi said. He said amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, India’s rural regions came up as beacons of guidance for the entire country. Many examples of effective endeavours on part
of local residents of villages and gram panchayats are coming to the fore, Modi said, giving the example of people who came forward to help others amid the health crisis. “Over the last few months, the way the country fought against the coronavirus unitedly has proved many apprehensions wrong. Today, the recovery rate in our country is better compared to other countries. The mortality rate in the context of COVID-19 in our country is much less as well, compared to most countries,” the prime minister said. “Of course, the loss of even one life is saddening, but India has also succeeded in saving the lives of lakhs of people,” Modi said. Wearing a face mask, using a ‘gamchcha’ or a cloth to cover the face, two yards of distancing, frequently washing hands, avoiding spitting in public
places and taking full care of hygiene and sanitation are our weapons to protect ourselves from the virus, he noted. There are times, Modi said, when masks cause inconvenience and one feels like removing it, especially during a conversation. “When a mask is required the most, we tend to remove it. At such times, I urge you that whenever you feel your mask is bothersome and you want to remove it, spare a thought for those doctors, nurses. You will find them wearing masks for hours together, diligently working to save our lives ... sometimes wearing masks for a span of eight to 10 hours. Doesn’t that discomfort them? Just think about them,” he said. Once people think of ‘Corona Warriors’, they too will feel that as citizens, neither they should be negligent nor let others be so, the prime minister said.
India inches towards 14L mark
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): With 48,661 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day, India’s COVID-19 tally climbed to 13,85,522 on Sunday, while the recoveries mounted to 8,85,576, according to the Union Health Ministry data. The COVID-19 death toll in the country rose to 32,063 with 705 fatalities being recorded in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed. There are 4,67,882 active cases of coronavirus infection presently in the country. Thus, around 63.92 per cent people have recovered so far. The total number of confirmed cases includes foreigners. This is the fourth consecutive day when COVID19 cases have increased by more than 45,000. The number of tests for detection of COVID-19 has
MLAs under no compulsion to attend session: Speaker Scientists decode how COVID Correspondent
KOHIMA, JUL 26 (NPN): Even as all arrangements are being made to ensure that the day-long Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) session scheduled on July 30 passes off smoothly without posing any health risk to anyone, Speaker Sharingain Longkumer has clarified that legislators were under no compulsion to attend in view of COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking to reporters at old CM bungalow here Sunday afternoon, the Sharingain explained that considering the current pandemic the MLAs would not be under any compulsion to attend the session. He said if any aged member decided to stay away, it would be entirely his call, adding that he would consider such request. He said that the
Health workers collecting samples for COVID test ahead of the assembly session (scheduled to be held on July 30), Sunday. (NP)
NLA secretariat was taking all precautionary measures for the upcoming session, stressing that one could not afford to become complacent nor take any chance for,
towns too and lockdown is being re-imposed in some areas. - The situation is ‘absolutely bad’ in Delhi where alongside the pandemic-related issues, there is also the collateral effect on people’s lives. The migrant labourers who are trying to get back to their homes are hard up, as once again the government has stopped the transportation, the trains as well as the bus services. - Overall, there is a sharp increase of cases all over the country and the epidemiologists and scientists are of the opinion that the government needs to take a strong stand and admit there is community transmission so that steps are taken to see that the epidemic can be brought under control. - Given the number of cases, community transmission is surely happening. The active states are concentrated in a few states and although there is a steady increase of cases all over the country, the ‘alarming increase’ is happening at present in a few states and there too, confined to a few districts. (Cont’d on p-6)
anything might happen. With over 500 people expected to be a part of the session, he feared that if a single person tested positive, the entire government
machinery would come to a standstill. He therefore said he took the decision of making test compulsory for everyone attending the session or even coming to its periphery in the interest of all. Meanwhile, following the speaker’s order, elected members, security personnel escorting the members, drivers, NLA staff and supporting staff underwent Truenat test at the old CM bungalow. As all MLAs were equally important, he said he felt it necessary for making it compulsory for their drivers and security personnel to test before the commencement of the session. “I’m resorting to use all available resources at my disposal to ensure that all my members are safe, besides the State government officials, security personnel and drivers,” he added.
molecules camouflage in host cell
HOUSTON, JUL 26 (PTI): Scientists, including those of Indian-origin, have resolved the structure of a molecule which the novel coronavirus uses to make its genetic sequence seem like a part of the host’s own, an advance that may lead to the development of new antiviral drugs against Covid-19. According to the study, published in the journal Nature Communications, the molecule nsp10 modifies the viral mRNAs (which are blueprints for producing proteins) to mimic host cell’s own mRNAs. The researchers from the The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) in the US said by enabling this modification, nsp10 protects the virus from host cell immune response. “It’s a camouflage. Because
of the modifications, which fool the cell, the resulting viral messenger RNA is now considered as part of the cell’s own code and not foreign,” said Yogesh Gupta, a co-author of the study from UT Health San Antonio. According to the researchers, deciphering the 3D structure of nsp16 paves the way for the design of new drugs against the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, and other emerging coronavirus infections. These drugs, Gupta said can be designed to inhibit nsp16 from making the modifications, so that the host immune system would pounce on the invading virus, recognising it as foreign. Based on the findings, the researchers have suggested structural sites on the SARSCoV-2 nsp10 molecule which they say can be targeted for antiviral development.
crossed the 16-million mark in the country. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 1,62,91,331 samples have been tested up to July 25 with 4,42,263 samples being tested on Saturday, the highest in a day. Of the 705 deaths reported, 257 are from Maharashtra, 89 from Tamil Nadu, 72 from Karnataka, 52 from Andhra Pradesh, 42 from West Bengal, 39 from Uttar Pradesh, 29 from Delhi, 22 from Gujarat, 14 from Bihar, 12 from Jharkhand, 11 from Rajasthan and 10 from Odisha. Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir have reported nine fatalities each followed by Madhya Pradesh with eight deaths, Haryana seven, Kerela five, Goa four, Chhattisgarh, Puducherry, Uttarakhand and Nagaland three each, while Assam and Ladakh have registered a fatality each.
Railways earned Rs 429.90cr from Shramik trains NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (AGENCIES): The Railways generated Rs 429.90 crore revenue through fares collected for Shramik Trains till July 9, according to ministry data. The national carrier spent around Rs 2400 crore in operating Shramik Trains, a senior ministry official said. The national carrier received highest revenue in fares from Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu with Rs 102 crore, Rs 85 crore and Rs 34 crore respectively, according to the data reviewed by HT. The fares were supposed to be paid by states, though there have been several reports of local administrations collecting the money from migrant workers. K Y M C
state
2
Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
21st Kargil Vijay Diwas observed at Pheza
DIMAPUR: HQ IGAR Nerhema village. Interaction (North) organised a cerwith ex-servicemen and pipe emony to commemorate band display was also carried the supreme sacrifice of all out. Saluting the martyr for martyrs who laid down their his exceptional act of bravery lives during Kargil War 1999 Major General VPS Kaushik, (OP Vijay) on July 26, at SM spoke of late Captain the Memorial of Captain N Kenguruse, MVC, being Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, the a source of motivation and brave officer who laid down inspiration to all ranks of the his life in the line of duty Armed forces and exhorted for the nation for which he the youth to emulate what was awarded the Mahavir Captain Neikezhakuo KenChakra, posthumously. guruse lived and died for. According to PRO HQ Captain Neikezhakuo IGAR (N), Major General Kenguruse, MVC (PosthuVPS Kaushik, SM, Inspecmous), of Nerhema village tor General Assam Rifles was born on July 15, 1974. (North), ranks of the forHe did his schooling at St mation, well-wishers and Xavier School, Jalukie and family members of Captain graduated from Kohima SciN Kengurusue, along with ence College. He served as a ex-servicemen paid homage teacher at Govt High School, at his memorial at Pheza, Kohima from 1994 to 1997. located near his native vilHe was later commissioned lage Nerhema. The ceremony into the Indian Army on Deincluded wreath laying by cember 12, 1998. He attained IGAR (North) and other ofmartyrdom during Kargil ficials. It was followed by a War on June 28, 1999 while prayer and song dedication Major General VPS Kaushik paying homage to the memorial of late Captain destroying enemy bunker and by pastor and choir from Neikizhakuo Kenguruse on July 26. killing four enemy soldiers.
nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is opening up of cluster markets advisable w h i l e C OV I D - 1 9 i s spreading? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
A
B
C
38% 62% 00%
Next poll
Q: Should PM Modi take
the call to lift the national lockdown or leave it to states?
should take Modi the call Leave it to states Can’t Say.
WEATHER FORECAST July 27
(Temperature in ºC)
Max Min
Agartala A stray a.m. t-storm; cloudy
30 26
A stray afternoon t-storm
28 22
Guwahati Cloudy with a stray t-storm
32 26
A stray a.m. t-storm; cloudy
25 22
Imphal
Itanagar A storng morning thunderstorm 29 24 Shillong A shower and t-storm around 23 19 Kohima A shower and t-storm around 22 19 Dimapur Not as warm with a t-storm
28 24
Not as warm with a t-storm
23 20
Mkg
Tuensang Couple of thunderstorms
18 16
Not as warm with a t-storm
24 21
Zunheboto Cloudy, a t-storm in spots
20 18
Wokha
Doctor from Kiphire Battalion examining a patient during medical camp held at Khongsa village on July 25.
DIMAPUR: Various battalions of Assam Rifles have been conducting civic action programmes across Nagaland for the welfare of the public. Apart from the routine medical camps, the Assam Rifles also gave awareness on COVID-19 and to combat the virus through personal hygiene. Kiphire Battalion medical camps: Kiphire Battalion organised free medical camps at Khongsa town, Khongsa village, Thanamir and Salumi villages of Kiphire district on July 25. According to PRO HQ IGAR (N), 172 people received medical consultation and treatment for basic ailment. Free medicines were distributed and the importance of adhering to all precautions against COVID-19 and maintenance of personal hygiene was also imparted. Mon Battalion medical camp Longjang village: Mon Battalion organised a free medical camp at Longjang village, Mon on July 25 wherein medical team
of Assam Rifles provided free medical consultancy and medicines to the residents. Residents were also encouraged to continue the fight against COVID19 menace with resolve and due caution. 47 male, 63 female and 83 children availed the facility. Shamator Battalion medical camp at Langnyok: Shamator Battalion organized a free medical camp at Langnyok village, Tuensang on July 26. A medical team of Assam Rifles provided medical consultation to 54 male, 61 female and 23 children and basic treatment to the ailing. Free medicines were also distributed on the occasion. Apart from the camp, interaction on women healthcare and awareness about how to build immunity against COVID-19 was also imparted. Tuensang Battalion lecture on COVID-19: Tuensang Battalion conducted a lecture-cumawareness on COVID19 at Tobu COB on July
Mon Battalion personnel with residents at the medical camp held on July 25, Longjang village.
25 with an aim to create awareness about the menace of COVID-19 and measures to prevent community transmission. Besides an in-depth coverage about COVID-19 and the
AKMWP urges people to follow SOP DIMAPUR: Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Panchayat (AKMWP) has urged the public not to panic but to follow the SOP norms laid by the medical department in order to contain the spread of Covid-19 infection in the state capital.
While updating on daytwo of the total lockdown in Kohima, the AKMWP in a press release informed that the day passed of peacefully with no untoward incident reported from any wards and colonies under Kohima municipality. AKMWP officials also
precautionary measures, the importance of timely vaccination, personal hygiene and sanitation was also covered. A total of 18 male and 02 female from Tobu attended the lecture.
visited Lower Chandmari, Naga Bazar, Dakland, North Block and New Market on Sunday. They had interaction with the ward leaders and appealed for a peaceful friendly enforcement in tune with the SOP guidelines of the government.
DC Mon issues guidelines for entry into Mon district DIMAPUR: Deputy commissioner Mon, Thavaseelan K has informed that the following guidelines are issued for all the persons entering Mon district from other districts of Nagaland. According to DIPR report, any person before entering Mon district should forward through WhatsApp, the copy of the movement permit issued by the office of DC Mon to the concerned administrative officer. The security personnel at the entry gate may also forward the copy on WhatsApp/call the concerned administrative officer; The concerned administrative officer, after verification of the move-
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.
Aizawl
Assam Rifles conduct various activities
Sakhi-OSC Longleng, Nagaland organised an 11 day awareness camp on violence against women and its impact, with the 11 women ward presidents and executives. The panel lawyer briefed the participants on women’s legal rights & provisions of the Protection of Women from DV Act. (Source: Ministry of WCD, Twitter)
ment permit may grant/deny permission to enter Mon district; The concerned administrative officer, after verification will intimate according to the security personal stationed at check gate 4. The copy of movement permit may be forwarded to the following numbers: Entry point Tizit 9612464766. 8974786302; Wakchin 9612735722; Aboi 7005749727; Tobu 873105188l/7085580799; Naginimora 8414856697; Angjabgyang 8415917951. No entry will be permitted without prior approval from the concerned administrative officers and violators will be penalised as per relevant provisions of the law.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
1 st Death Anniversary of our beloved Rev. Haizotuo Suokhrie
Died on 27-07-2019 We dearly miss and remember the love and kindness you have bestowed upon us. You are truly remembered and your blessings will always be treasured. ” A Man of greatness shall never be forgotten but cherished”. DP-3327
Loving wife, Children, in laws, grand children, great grand children and relatives.
Late Yangtsali Sangtam, GB Kiphire Town. Born on 02/12/1941 | Died on 24/07/2020 We the bereaved family members of Late Yangtsali Sangtam, GB, Kiphire Town would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to every individuals, organizations, churches, friends and well wishers who stood by us and rendered their support in every possible ways during the prolong illness and sad demise of our beloved father on 24th July 2020 from Dimapur. We are especially grateful to; 1. Olive Christian Hospital & Research Centre, 14. Kisetong Village Union Dimapur. Dimapur. 15. Singrep village Union Kohima. 2. Kiphire District GB’s Association. 16. Sangtam Yuva Akehda whatsapp group. 3. Joint Forum Kiphire District. 17. A. K Hotel, Pfutsero. 4. United Sangtam Likhum Pumji(USLP) 18. Commandant and all ranks of 7th Assam Rifle 5. United Sangtam Baptist Lithroti Ashimükhong Kiphire HQ. (USBLA) 19. Dr. Ikheto and the staffs of OCHRC Dimapur 6. Longya Ward Kiphire Town. 20. Shri.Tsapikiu, Public Leader. 7. Amahator Village Union Kiphire Town. 21. Shri.M.Shakiba, IFS, Director, SEFTI Dimapur. 8. Amahator Baptist Lithro. 22. Shri.Tsalito, Project Director, Tuensang. 9. Kiphire Town Baptist Lithro. 23. Shri.Tsithrongse, HD.GB, Tsithrongse Village, 10. Kiphire Town Baptist Lithrolarü. Dimapur. 11. Ao Baptist Church Kiphire Town. 24. Shri.Tsasepi, Ex-Candidate, 59 A/C. 12. Kiphire Town Baptist Lithro, 25. Shri.Khuza Jurry, SDPO, Pfutsero Town. Dangkhidangnang Amülong. 26. Shri.Semato Sangtam, Kiphire Village. 13. Amahator Atparü Union Kiphire Town. We deeply regretted our inability to mention each and every individual by name but it is our sincere prayer that our good Lord blesses you all abundantly. Wife, Children, Grand children, In-laws & relatives. DP-3328
OFFICE OF THE WOZHURO BLOCK VILLAGE COUNCIL CHAIRMAN & WOZHURO BLOCK VDB SECRETARIES' ASSOCIATION WOKHA : NAGALAND
Ref:- RTI-1/WRO/2020
Date:- 21-07-2020
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
(Alow Lotha) President, WBVCCA Wokha, Nagaland K Y M C
(Robin Humtsoe) President, WBVDBSA Wokha, Nagaland
DC-641
DC-425
We the WBVCCA and WBVDBSA express our appreciation and gratitude to anyone showing his/her concern towards Wozhuro block in particular by filing RTI seeking informations. However, as most of the RD Programmes are implemented at the village level under the watchful eyes of Block Village Council Chairman Association and Block Village Development Board Secretary Association, it will be very wise on the part of the concern person to kindly take into confidence the village level functionaries before taking up such ventures. If the informations are sought for the general benefit and welfare of the Block stake holders, we welcome it. However, if outsiders with ulterior motives try to target and victimize us, thereby hampering the Developmental activities of our Block, we will strictly monitor such cases and take necessary action as per the resolutions passed by both the Associations under RD Block Wozhuro, Wokha.
K Y M C
5 more dead as Assam floods remain critical
Guwahati, Jul 26 (PTI): The flood situation in Assam remained critical with five more persons losing their lives, while nearly 25 lakh people have been affected by the deluge in 23 districts, an official bulletin said on Sunday. Barpeta and Kokrajhar districts reported two deaths each and one fatality was reported from Morigaon district, according to the daily flood report of the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA). With this, the total number of people losing their lives in this year’s flood and landslide has gone up to 128 across the state. Of them, 102 were killed in flood-related incidents and 26 in landslides. Over 24.76 lakh people are hit due to floods in Dhemaji, Sonitpur, Biswanath, Darrang, Baksa, Nalbari, Barpeta, Chirang, Bongaigaon, Kokrajhar, Dhubri, South Salmara, Goalpara, Kamrup, Kamrup Metropolitan, Morigaon, Nagaon, Golaghat, Jorhat, Majuli, Sivasagar, Charaideo and Dibrugarh districts, the ASDMA said. Goalpara is the worsthit with over 4.7 lakh people affected. In Barpeta, more than 3.95 lakh people were affected and in Morigaon, around 3.33 lakh people have been hit by the deluge.
Jitendra Singh speaks to Assam CM; assures help
An elderly woman rows a makeshift raft to cross a flood-affected area of Mayong village in Morigaon district of Assam. (PTI) The SDRF, district to extend whatever help of rice, dal and salt, and administrations and locals possible for restoration and 1,256.34 litres of mustard oil have rescued 188 people repair of damaged infra- along with other relief matein the last 24 hours by de- structures in Assam, in the rials such as tarpaulin, baby ploying 101 boats across wake of incessant rains and food, candle, match box, the state. floods. mosquito net, biscuit, soap, Till Saturday, more “We are in constant drinking water, cattle feed, than 26.37 lakh persons touch with the state govern- mask and wheat bran. were affected by the deluge ment and CM Sarbanand At several relief camps, across 27 districts. Sonwal,” Singh tweeted. people have complained The Centre said it At present, 2,265 vil- about negligence by the was in constant touch with lages were inundated and authority and claimed that the state government and 1,12,667.06 hectares of crop they had received foodgrain has committed to offer all area has been damaged only once upon their arrival possible help to mitigate across Assam, the ASDMA about a week back. the flood situation. Devel- said. In the southern part opment of North Eastern It further said that au- of Kamrup district, people Region (DoNER) Minis- thorities were running 457 rued the inaction of the ter Jitendra Singh said the relief camps and distribu- authorities in saving their centre is monitoring the tion centres across 18 dis- villages from massive erosituation. tricts, where 45,912 people sion by the Brahmaputra “Ministry of Devel- have taken shelter. river this year. opment of North Eastern The authorities have The mighty BrahmaRegion (DoNER) commits distributed 4,451.99 quintals putra is flowing above dan-
PHC runs without doctor; KSU writes to authorities MAWKYRWAT, JUL 26 (AGENCIES): As Meghalaya struggles to improve its health infrastructure to manage the ever-rising COVID19 cases, there have been reports of Public Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) in the rural areas without doctors, staff or the basic facilities, reports The Northeast Today. One such centre is the Rangthong PHC in Rangthong village of Mawkyrwat in the South West Khasi Hills (SWKH) district. This PHC caters to about 10 villages in the area; however, as per reports, this centre now functions without a doctor. It was informed that the doctor who was in charge of the PHC left for further studies at the North Eastern Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) in Shillong. According to the President of the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) South West Khasi Hills District, For-
PHC in Rangthong village of Mawkyrwat in the (Courtesty: The Northeast Today) wardman Nongrem, since Civil Sub Division also faces Dr. Peter Kharduid left, the same problem. the Rangthong PHC now “South West Khasi has only one Ayush physi- Hills has only 10 MBBS cian along with nurses and doctors and it is very difother staff. ficult for them to cover the Nongrem said that the 1,20,000 population of the locals of Rangthong have District especially in these aired their grievances over trying times amid the fight the absence of a doctor, against coronavirus,” Nonamid the pandemic. He also grem said. said that besides Rangthong, In this regard, the KSU Khonjoy PHC in Ranikor Rangthong Unit, recently,
South West Khasi Hills. met the District Medical & Health Officer of South West Khasi Hills, Dr. FR Lartang, urging him to immediately appoint a qualified doctor at the PHC. Meanwhile, the KSU SWKH extended its appreciation to the health workers in the district. “Even though they are less in number but they are working very hard,” said Nongrem.
African Swine Fever: Assam seeks pig supply curbs
Sikkim edn institutes to be shut till Aug 31
According to the World Animal Health Organisation, it does not affect humans. Like the coronavirus, there is no vaccine for ASF, which was first detected in Kenya in 1907. Strict restrictions have been imposed in Assam to contain African Swine Fever (ASF), which has so far affected 20,000 pig farmers in 422 villages across 14 districts, killing 17,118 pigs. The restrictions have affected movement and sale of pork in the state. B o r a c o nve ye d t o Singh that his department has planned to resume culling of diseased pigs and their burial from the first week of August, something not possible now because of the floods in 26 of the 33 districts, claiming 97 lives. African swine fever has affected Lakhimpur, D h e m a j i , B i swa n a t h , Sivasagar, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Majuli, Golaghat, Nagaon, Kamrup (Metro), Morigaon, Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong and Sonitpur districts of Assam. Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Ar unachal Pradesh have banned entry
Gangtok Jul 26 (PTI): The Sikkim government has extended the closure of all educational institutes in the state till August 31, amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases, a minister said on Sunday. Earlier, the government had said that the institutes, which were shut down following the imposition of the nationwide lockdown in March, would reopen after August 3. Teachers, however, will continue to impart lessons online, Education Minister Kunga Nima Lepcha said. The health and safety of the students were of utmost priority for the state government, but education, too, has to be given equal attention, he stated. The minister said his department has designed online, offline and homeschooling programmes for students to ensure they don’t miss out on important lessons. All educational institutions, government and private, shall remain closed till August 31. The situation will be reviewed again at an appropriate time, Lepcha said.
GUWAHATI, JUL 26 (AGENCIES): The Assam government and pig farmers in the Northeast are unhappy with the Centre’s decision to transport pigs from Punjab and Haryana to the region where swine fever is raging, reports The Telegraph. Assam animal husbandr y and veterinar y minister Atul Bora has written to Union minister for animal husbandry, dairy and fisheries Giriraj Singh saying the ministry’s July 22 move was “poorly conceived” and a “recipe for disaster”. Punjab and Haryana, lacking a market to consume the pork they produce, have been supplying pigs to the Northeast where pork is a staple for many. The piggery market of the northeastern states is worth Rs 7,500 crore annually and 1kg pork sells for Rs 300 here. Seeking withdrawal of the move, Bora said Assam is now in the grip of floods as well as African swine fever (ASF), a severe viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs, detected in Assam in April this year.
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northeast
Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
of pigs from outside following the African swine fever outbreak in April. Assam had on April 25 banned trade in pigs and pork and movement of people associated with pig rearing/farms. “Under the circumstances, any free movement of pigs from outside the state shall seriously undermine all steps taken to control the spread of African Swine Fever and also endanger areas outside the northeast,” Bora has said in his letter to Singh while requesting withdrawal of the decision. The North East Progressive Pig Farmers’ Association (NEPPFA), which has over 1,000 members, is “shocked and annoyed with the Centre’s decision” because of the crippling impact of the ASF on the piggery sector of the region. The North East Progressive Pig Farmers’ Association president Manoj Basumatary said allowing movement of pigs was fraught with danger as it will fan the spread of African Swine Fever and also Covid-19 (through drivers and staff).
ger mark at Dhubri and Goalpara cities, and also at Nimatighat in Jorhat and Tezpur in Sonitpur districts. Its tributaries -- Dhansiri at Numaligarh in Golaghat, Jia Bharali at NT Road Crossing in Sonitpur, Kopili at Dharamtul in Nagaon, Beki at Road Bridge in Barpeta and Kushiyara at Karimganj town -- were also flowing above the danger levels. Embankments, roads and many other infrastructure have been damaged at various places in Barpeta, Bongaigaon and Morigaon districts. Massive erosion have been witnessed at different places of Chirang district, ASDMA said. The ASDMA bulletin stated that 91 camps out of 223 at Kaziranga National Park, 12 out of 40 camps at Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park and 16 out of 25 camps at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary have been affected by the deluge. The deluge has so far claimed the lives of 129 different animals, while 157 others were rescued in Kaziranga National Park, the bulletin said quoting officials of the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division. The flood has also affected 22,43,454 domestic animals and poultry across the state during the last 24 hours, it added.
Sikkim reports 1st COVID-19 death Gangtok, Jul 26 (PTI): The Sikkim government has extended the statewide lockdown till August 1 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, according to a notification. A complete, six-day lockdown, imposed by the hilly state, was scheduled to end on Sunday. Earlier in the day, the state also reported its first Covid-19 death — a 74-yearold with comorbidities from East Sikkim. “A 74-year-old male from Rongli, East Sikkim passed away this morning, in the Covid-19 wing of STNM hospital. He had comorbidities & was suffering from hypertension & diabetes,” said a tweet from the official account of the Sikkim government’s Information & Public Relations Department. Sikkim has 357 active cases of COVID-19, while the total cases stand at 499, a senior health official said. As many as 142 people have recovered from the disease.
PM Modi lauds value addition of bamboo products in North East Agartala, Jul 26 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the value addition to bamboo products in Assam, Tripura and Manipur with the aim of making the country ‘Atmanirbhar’. “Skilled artisans are making bottles, tiffin boxes and various other essential products with the bamboo in Assam, Tripura and Manipur. These products made with bamboo are of high quality and very useful,” said Modi during his monthly ‘Mann ki Baat’ Radio programme. He said that these indigenous products boost the income of the people and the business during the festivities and various other occasions. “Northeastern states have been growing the precious resources of bamboo. If anyone studies the bottles, tiffin boxes and various other essential products, they would not believe that these very helpful products are made of bamboo. Besides, these bamboo-made products are very environment friendly and hygienic,” the Prime Minister pointed out. Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and his Tripura and Manipur counterparts Biplab Kumar
Narendra Modi Deb and N. Biren Singh Our artisans are working to thanked the Prime Minister strengthen ‘Vocal For Local’ for highlighting the useful- initiative.” ness and significance of Biren Singh said that bamboo made products. the Prime Minister lauds Sonowal in a tweet said the manufacturers of bamthat bamboo, the “Green boo bottles and tiffin boxes Gold”, is a resource which is from Manipur and other helping the northeast region NE states during his ‘Mann to script a new chapter in ki Baat’ programme. “The development of local indus- state government is also protries with global products. viding and (would continue “Let us be more vocal about to) provide all necessary asthe use of this eco-friendly sistance to encourage these material,” the Assam Chief innovative and eco-friendly Minister said. products,” the Manipur Deb, who is also hold- Chief Minister said. ing Industries and ComOf the 1,250 bamboo merce and Health Depart- species throughout the ments, said in a tweet “I world, India has 145 of thank PM Narendramodi them. Bamboo forests in ji for highlighting the story India occupy approximately of Tripura’s bamboo made 10.03 million hectares, and water bottles at Mann-Ki- comprise about 12 per cent Baat programme. It will of the total forest area of the definitely boost the morale country. About 28 per cent of our bamboo artisans to of these bamboo forests are work with more dedication. located in northeast India.
RS polls: Cong issues notices to 2 more COVID 2 Manipur MLAs for cross-voting patients Imphal, Jul 26 (PTI): The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee has issued show-cause notices to two of its MLAs for allegedly cross-voting in favour of the BJP candidate in the recently-concluded election to the state’s lone Rajya Sabha seat. The notices were served to Wangkhei MLA Okram Henry Singh and Sagolband MLA Rajkumar Imo Singh on Friday. “You have deliberately breached and acted against the decision of the Indian National Congress (INC) by indulging in cross-voting in favour of the BJP candidate in the recent Rajya Sabha election held on June 19 and this has not only violated the decision of our party to support our candidate but is also detrimental in maintaining the party principle,” the notices read. BJP candidate Leisemba Sanajaoba won the Rajya Sabha election, defeating Congress nominee T Mangi
Babu. Sanajaoba, the titular king of Manipur, had received 28 votes, while Babu had secured 24. The Congress alleged that Okram had participated in the felicitation of the BJP candidate, who won the election, organised at Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s bungalow. The legislator from Wangkhei is the nephew of former chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, who is also the leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP). Rajkumar was accused of accompanying the chief minister to New Delhi on a chartered flight on June 30 without the permission of the party. The two MLAs could not be reached for comments. The Manipur unit of the Congress has sought an explanation from the duo within two weeks for their “anti-party” activities.
die in Assam
Guwahati, Jul 26 (PTI): Two COVID-19 patients died in Assam on Sunday, taking the toll to 79, Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. Both the patients -- a 53-year-old woman from Tinsukia and a 50-year- old man from Dibrugarh -- succumbed at the Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh, he said. “Two more #COVID19 patients succumbed to their infections. Both of them were admitted at AMCH, Dibrugarh. Deeply saddened. May God provide enough strength to their families to bear the loss,” Sarma tweeted. The mortality rate in the state is currently at 0.25%, officials said. The state has reported 31,086 cases of COVID-19 in 117 days since the first person was was diagnosed on March 31. The current doubling time has increased to 14.5 days from the previous week’s 11.4, they said.
Minister’s relatives, NHM staff test COVID +ve in Mnp Correspondent IMPHAL, Jul 26: Manipur health minister L Jayentakumar was tested for COVID-19 amid the worsening situation of the pandemic in the state after widespread infections detected in Thoubal district. Official sources said the health minister was subjected to COVID-19 test after his three close relatives were tested positive for the virus with unknown sources. On July 24, a nephew of the minister was hospitalised at a private hospital with critical injuries in a road accident. However, he was found positive for the pandemic when he was subjected to post surgery COVID-19 test on Saturday (July 25). During contact tracing which was conducted immediately, a son of the injured person and another relative of the minister who evacuated him were also found to have contracted the virus on Sunday. Following the development, swab samples of the health minister and all his family members and his close contacts, including his personal cum house guards, were tested.
All of them tested negative for the contagion, a source from the state health department said. The patient has been shifted to Covid care facility of RIMS hospital and state health authority sealed the fourth floor of the private hospital ((Shija Hospitals and Research Institute Private Ltd) where the patient was admitted. Doctors and nurses of the private hospital who attended the patient and other patients in the same floor where the patient admitted were quarantined in the same ward of the hospital. The OPD service of the hospital has also been closed with immediate effect and contact tracing has been initiated. However, emergency service will continue, an official of the private hospital when contacted over phone. COVID-19 situation in Manipur is worsening as mass infections of 36 persons concentrated at two places of Thoubal district were reported besides detection of locally transmitted cases in other districts of the state too. The 36 persons were tested positive for COVID19 during rapid antigen tests conducted at some
places of the district after locally transmitted cases were reported. The infection has reached the state chief minister’s secretariat after a staffer of the National Health Mission (NHM) deputed at COVID-19 Common Control Room opened at the secretariat also tested positive for the virus. The chief minister’s secretariat and the state police headquarters adjacent to the secretariat have been declared containment zones following the test result of the staffer. The staffer was subjected to COVID-19 test during contact tracing of a doctor at Senapati district hospital who tested positive for the virus. The staffer has a history of travelling to Senapati on July 21 along with one of his colleagues where they met with the COVID positive doctor at Senapati district hospital. After returning from Senapati, he had also attended work at the COVID19 Common Control Room on July 22. Following the development, state authority has sealed the COVID-19 Common Control Room set up at the Durbar Hall of the chief minister’s secretariat
for seven days. State health authorities have started rigorous contact tracing and conducted COVID tests on the staff of the secretariat. As part of tracing of secondary contacts, media persons who attended a chief minister’s news conference held at the same hall on July 22 were asked to undergo home quarantine for 14 days. All the media persons who attended the news conference will be subjected to COVID-19 test tomorrow (July 26), official sources said.
Infections rise to 2235; 59 new cases
Further surveillance was conducted in Churachandpur district where 545 contacts of an employee of a private lab were identified. 143 of them tested negative and results of the remaining were awaited, it said. In the last 24 hours, 59 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported . The total number of COVID-19 infections in Manipur rose to 2,235 on Sunday, including the 59 new cases. Of them 714 were active cases as the number of recovered cases stood at 1521.
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OPINiON/EDITORIAL
Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 231 Dimapur, MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
E
Ground reality
ven as the number of COVID-19 cases in Nagaland shows exponential rise and leading to serious concerns, the state’s department of health & family welfare maintained that the spread is still under stage-2. Till April 30, the state had ‘Nil’ case of COVID-19. By May 25,after a few thousand persons from Nagaland returned, three cases of COVID-19 was confirmed thereby erasing the ‘Nil’ record. By June-end the number shot up to 460. As on July 26 the figures exponentially rose to 1335. It may also be noted, that as on July 26, the state recorded a total of six deaths among those who had tested positive for COVID-19. However, health officials explained that it was yet to be confirmed if all or some had died due to COVID-19. Most had reportedly died of co-morbidity(also having various other ailments). Local transmission or Stage 2 is when people who have brought the virus into the state transmit it to people they come in contact with, usually friends and family. At this stage it is easy to trace spread and quarantine people. The explanation satisfies the definition but in practice, it does not fit with the recent infections outside quarantine facilities. If transmission is taking place outside the quarantine centres, then it also means there are some(or many) COVID-19 patients moving about freely among public. Without prejudice, the question is whether the infections are from those who were at quarantine centres and now possibly under self or home quarantine? If it is from those who were at quarantine centres, then it raises another question of whether proper testing has been done and whether those quarantined had been released after following Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)? If affirmative, then it points the finger on a possible scenario that there may be many who have not been tested for COVID-19. This then highlights the most likely situation of some COVID-19 asymptomatic persons, who are infected but never develop symptoms during the period of infection. Another type are COVID-19 pre-symptomatic persons who have not yet developed symptoms but do go on to develop symptoms later. This distinction is important for public health strategies to control transmission. For example, laboratory data suggests that people might be the most infectious at or around the time they develop symptoms. Though it is not to suggest such, but even in nearby Manipur and Assam, health officials are grappling with spurt in COVID-19 cases among many without travel history or known sources. In recent statements, there had been serious concern about spurt in COVID-19 cases in Peren district and possibly in other far flung districts. This has led leaders and organisations to seriously believe that these spikes in COVID-19 cases were due to community transmission. Though it may be still too premature to suggest that Stage-3(community transmission) is taking place in some areas, yet it would be helpful not to rule it out. AIIMS Director Dr.Randeep Guleria had remarked that the localised community transmission being observed in some pockets of the country which suggest that India is between Stage 2 and Stage 3 of COVID-19 transmission Dr. Guleria, who is also a member of a Task Force on COVID-19, reportedly said that “localised community transmission” has been seen in some pockets and to indicate that India is between Stage 2 (local transmission) and Stage 3. It is now up to authorities to ponder over this matter and the sooner the better for public safety.
DailyDevotion The Way to Purity
Those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart….For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man… —Matthew 15:18-20 Initially we trust in our ignorance, calling it innocence, and next we trust our innocence, calling it purity. Then when we hear these strong statements from our Lord, we shrink back, saying, “But I never felt any of those awful things in my heart.” We resent what He reveals. Either Jesus Christ is the supreme authority on the human heart, or He is not worth paying any attention to. Am I prepared to trust the penetration of His Word into my heart, or would I prefer to trust my own “innocent ignorance”? If I will take an honest look at myself, becoming fully aware of my so-called innocence and putting it to the test, I am very likely to have a rude awakening that what Jesus Christ said is true, and I will be appalled at the possibilities of the evil and the wrong within me. But as long as I remain under the false security of my own “innocence,” I am living in a fool’s paradise. If I have never been an openly rude and abusive person, the only reason is my own cowardice coupled with the sense of protection I receive from living a civilized life. But when I am open and completely exposed before God, I find that Jesus Christ is right in His diagnosis of me. The only thing that truly provides protection is the redemption of Jesus Christ. If I will simply hand myself over to Him, I will never have to experience the terrible possibilities that lie within my heart. Purity is something far too deep for me to arrive at naturally. But when the Holy Spirit comes into me, He brings into the center of my personal life the very Spirit that was exhibited in the life of Jesus Christ, namely, the HolySpirit, which is absolute unblemished purity.
Quotes
I never think of the future - it comes soon enough. ~ Albert Einstein
I
ndian agriculture is a complex mix. It has myriad problems but solutions suggested are often not practical. Interestingly the largest beneficiaries of the food dole to 80 crore poor are the producers of the food grains. It is a dichotomy. Often, in terms of agriculture, privatization, private investment and handing it over to private hands become the policy plank. More this is being discussed and “reformed” through ordinances, the government is getting enmeshed in it by direct benefit transfers, Rs 6000 pension for farmers and dismantling their mandis under the agriculture produce committees (APMC), easing Essential Commodities Act and facilitating contract farming. There is apparent policy confusion. The first major agriculture reform was the Green Revolution, creation of mandis and setting up Food Corporation of India (FCI) for procurement, creating buffer stock and distribution. It has its pluses and some minuses too. Except at purchasing level, the government is not involved. Farmers still are making their own investments, may be now through bank support
Make farmer the king
extended by the kisan credit card or simply bank loans. The government institutions selling seeds, fertiliser or other support do it at commercial rates and bogey had been created that the farmers are dependent on the government. The mandis despite many flaws served them well and assured payments. The mahajan system popularly enshrined by cinematic character Sukhi of Mother India found their roles limited, but not eliminated. The Sukhis are still there for smaller tillers who still do not find it easy to have bank support. The new ordinances are euphoric about a panIndia market – a complex and expensive system, “larger” involvement of private sector, a euphemism for multinational involvement in the farm sector, which is operating for almost two decades through various “cash and carry” wholesale trade across the country. Some Indian firms too have entered the scenario. In Kashmir, some companies have monopolized apple trade through their leased orchards; in other places motley groups manage partially grape, orange, mango and spices trading. Many have emerged as parallels of FCI. But farmers
have concern. They become their pawn and alternative support is difficult once a contract is signed. The ordinances for demolition of this alternative are concern for many farmers’ organisations. Again it is all private investment that most official functionaries take pride in. That is the plus and minus. The plus is “investment”. The minus is it creates a larger chunk of farmers looking for direct government support for their survival. The covid19 lockdown has opened up the chinks. Shivaji The government is trying to correct it through enormous stock, it built in FCI warehouses through the years of toil. It is distributing food grain worth Rs 1.5 lakh crore for free till at least November 2020, from April onwards for over 60 percent of the population. Despite years of deliberations the nation has got into the same quagmire of government support to farming instead of promoting individual farmer’s capabilities to be self-sustaining. The APMC mandis have flaws though it is a robust system. Since it is still an ordinance, the policy makers need to relook for re-
moving the flaws but prevent its demolition. The ordinance should for now not be enacted into statutory law. Over the years corporate cartels have created lobbies to control the base of Indian economy – agriculture. It is profit-oriented, not a bad word, but at the cost of sustenance of the farming community. The farmers need monetary support all through the year. They need small credits. This is provided by the buyers at the mandis and adjusted against the final sales. The payments to Sarkar farmers are assured in the system. Yes, this creates a kind of bondage too. There are instances of it being exploited as well. The pan-India market is there in the mandis as well. Many farmers have taken their produce from Punjab to sell at Bihar mandis for better price. The present ordinances try to legalise that but creating monolith of large corporate players. Politically it suits various operators as election funding in bulk is assured. Practically, the nation is creating convoluted system, where the involvement of the government at micro level would increase. Economi-
Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
cally and financially it may be populist but certainly not profitable either for the farmers or the nation. There is another apprehension. Sizeable sections of the farmers may be controlled through Vikas Dube-type goons creating severe law and order issues – in short perpetuation of more powerful Sukhis and dumping more costs on the state. So India neither needs a full corporate system, nor full privatization nor full government involvement. Agriculture remains complex. Giving it to the corporate may have long-term impact on food security about which the nation has false sense as granaries overflow as per 1960s model. India has gone far ahead of it. Now farmer is just not food grain producers. He produces poultry, meet, dairy products, vegetables and fruit. He has yet to grow into nutrition supplier – the next level – to have a healthier nation. Farmers will need to be supported – through finance or credit, policy interventions that turn them into competitors by increasing their power to sustain. The potato, tomato or onion farmers have none of it. The government needs to set up monitoring systems with able experts from the
community, market experts and scientists. The fluctuation in production from high like potato in 2019 to low now or low production of onion in 2019 to high now cause price crash or volatility. A perspective plan in each such crop will remove the need for seeking government support. Crop production needs zone wise planning. The MNREGA, subsidies, doles cannot be permanent solution – economic, financial or political. The combination has created severe dependence on the government. Indian agriculture has remained in the private sector and will remain so. But through judicious planning, advice and policy intervention, the individual farmers have to be empowered to create a national syndrome of independent entrepreneurs. The NDA-II under Narendra Modi has array of experts and visionaries. It needs to put them together to evolve a farming that would be strong and other sectors dependent on it. The government should remain an observer but not a direct player. And for now let us redo the three June 5 ordinances for a better future.
Post-mortem
Statement of NCSA on the post of DC in Nagaland
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ebruary 1974: DC Zunheboto, Mr. K.K. Gupta, IAS was ambushed in Nunumi Village, Zunheboto district. He and his driver were killed. The Commandant of the Assam Rifles and the Head Dobashi riding in an adjoining vehicle narrowly escaped with their lives. He had been the first Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto district. ADC Mokokchung, Mr. S.B. CHETRI, NCS was immediately sent to replace him in Zunheboto. March 1995: DC KOHIMA, Dr. L.V. Reddy, IAS was shot dead in Kohima town. A dynamic and much appreciated officer, he had been the 24th Deputy Commissioner of Kohima District. ADC Kohima, Mr. Visutha Angami, NCS was given charge of Deputy Commissioner Kohima for a few months till Mr. M Zhasa, NCS was posted as Deputy Commissioner. These two tragic incidents greatly shaped bureaucracy in Nagaland. It began the chapter of what journalists would go on to call the era of ‘suitcase bureaucrats’, IAS officers posted to the State that would leave on any pretext they could find. Some applied for leave and extended their leave for years. Those that could, applied for deputation and some managed to stay away on deputation without ever coming back to serve in the State. Many officers have changed their cadre altogether. Some were so reluctant to serve in Nagaland that they just disappeared for years on end without any explanation. A’94 batch officer disappeared on multiple occasions, one time resurfacing much to the surprise of the State Government in a Ministry in the Government of India without the prior approval or knowledge of the State Government, an incident that attracted national news coverage. He is still in Service. Regular Recruit (RR) IAS officers were thin on the ground in the 70’s and 80’s, the IAS officers serving in the State were mostly those inducted from the Indian Frontier Area Service and Nagaland Civil Service; they held not only the posts of Deputy Commissioner but some like Mr. N.I. Jamir, Mr. I. Longkumer and Mr. Z. Obed even went on to become Chief Secretaries of the State. The 90’s were difficult years for administration in the State. Fresh on the heels of the assassination of DC Kohima in 1995, many IAS (RR) officers left their stations; one was particularly infamous and made headlines, the unceremonious fleeing of Deputy Commissioner Zunheboto. The district was left to the charge of the ADC Ms. Tovili Sema, NCS till the Government realised that the officer wasn’t coming back and posted Mr M.I. Borah, NCS as Deputy Commissioner Zunheboto. The officer did not return till the next year. He wasn’t the first officer to disappear and he certainly wasn’t the last, he was also not the only Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto to “flee”. Our State has seen officers disappearing during emergencies even during the present Covid19 pandemic. Even senior District Administration officers holding the most responsible posts in the districts and subdivisions have left their station on various pretexts leaving their charge to other officers. One left on paternity leave which is an understandable reason till one learns that an NCS officer couldn’t avail paternity leave during the same period because his services were indispensable in the management of the Quarantine centres of the district. Others have left
on health grounds or filial obligations, all of which press on NCS officers just as equally but are not honoured as much. Even now there are as many as 10 IAS officers who are out of station on leave or simply absent and with the exception of one Principal Secretary and one Additional Secretary, the rest are District Administration officers charged with the management of the Covid19 pandemic. As was quoted in a recently published article “DCs/DMs are the lynchpin of administration, whether it be law and order or development schemes…” This was as true 30 years ago as it is now, or perhaps even more so as back then death-threats were given regularly as were house and office visits, irrespective of the service or the department. All Government employees faced some degree of mental and emotional trauma during those trying times. It isn’t that these delinquent and derelict IAS officers were bad or poor officers, some went on to have successful careers serving as Chief Secretaries of the State and Secretaries in the Union Government. However, the circumstances do make us question the premium placed on the life and liberty of IAS officers in the State. When the IAS officers availed their legal or illegal options to stay away from the State fearing for their lives and personal security, the NCS officers were sent in their place as Deputy Commissioners. There have been times when our NCS officers have been placed in situations where we have had to act against our own people, sometimes at great personal cost. Insurgency isn’t the only issue that has afflicted our State; we have also witnessed bitter violence on intertribal and land issues. Our officers have faced death threats and some of us have narrowly escaped with our lives on occasion. Despite the DoPT notifications that State otherwise, NCS officers have occupied the DC posts in the State from as early as 1973 when Mr I. Imkongmar Aier was posted as DC Phek. Enclosed are the incumbent lists of Deputy Commissioners in all 11 districts of the State. Even a cursory glance will show that the State Government has always posted officers to these posts on its prerogative. Administration in Nagaland is not as simple as it is in other States. Where other States have District Collectors/District Magistrates we have Deputy Commissioners, the judiciary and the executive are not completely separate in our State and the Deputy Commissioners are charged with the dispensation of justice on customs and traditions with the assistance of the Dobashi Courts. Experience and wisdom are required to effectively handle issues with due sensitivity and regard for the customs and traditions of the people. NCS officers rise to the rank of DC after almost 20 years of service, unlike IAS officers who are eligible in 4 years (inclusive of 2 years of training). This explains to some extent the dereliction of duty by these officers who are perhaps not mature enough to handle the challenges of the job. The recent spate of inaccurate social media posts and articles about slighted IAS officers not being posted as DC is not new. It may even be seen as a positive development, an indicator that the situation is relatively peaceful in the State compared to earlier years; orders can be passed and followed without
threat to life. Hence, many IAS officers are eager to serve as Deputy Commissioners in the Districts. However, as this recent history has shown us, they are still not willing to serve in the State during emergencies or otherwise. The IAS cadre in the State is 94 strong. Of this 94, 33% is to be filled by the State Civil Services, so at any given point of time there ought to be 63 IAS (RR) officers in the State. Presently there is barely half that number even counting those on leave because many are away on deputation and continue to extend and overstay their deputation period. They return to Nagaland for their cooling period and leave as quickly as they can after. If the earlier reason was security now it is that their children cannot access quality education or that they cannot be with their families. They continue to change their cadre at the same rate as they used to, even as recent as a 2017 batch officer. Even as recently as the 2013 General elections, the ECI directed that all Deputy Commissioners in the state should be IAS officers but there were not enough eligible officers the State to man the posts. Perhaps, the era of the reluctant suitcase bureaucrat is not yet over in Nagaland. Doesn’t our State deserve more than a reluctant suitcase bureaucrat? The office of the Deputy Commissioner is crucial, not only as an administrative office but also because the Deputy Commissioners over see all developmental works executed in the districts. It is a full time assignment that requires an officer to be always present. Developmental works may not become emergencies overnight but as we have stated earlier Nagaland is a State that is balancing a variety of factors that have no parallel in the country and it is the moral responsibility of the Deputy Commissioner to ensure that these are contained. It is difficult to accept that officers who are unwilling or unable to be in station even during emergencies will be present and functioning during peaceful times. The structure of the Nagaland Civil Services has changed with the changes in the State. The member officers have been moulded in the unique historical circumstances of the State. We have served in the most remote stations in the harshest circumstances, some of our members have had to face raging bloodbaths in our first postings right out of the Administrative Training Institute, but you would be hard pressed to find any of our members that fled from their responsibilities in such circumstances. The Nagaland Civil Service officers were not posted as Deputy Commissioners because we asked for the post; we were posted by the State Government that understood that only we could manage the districts during difficult times. Our postings as Deputy Commissioners are rooted in the historical circumstances of the State and not out of parochial or personal ambition. The encadrement of all Deputy Commissioner posts in the State to the IAS may be true on paper but it is not true in practice. This is not because the State Government broke any rules but because historical circumstances necessitated it. It should be at the discretion of the State Government to assign the officers it considers suitable to this important post. W. Honje Konyak NCS, President NCSA
Fight the stigma of COVID-19 not the people
I
t so happened that I was on a contact tracing of a person tested positive two weeks ago. Since then I was in home isolation. Little did I know from whom, where and how different speculative rumours surfaced and that I tested positive even before my sample for testing was collected and has been going around even in social media that I started to receive calls even from far ends. My landlords were even been accused of hiding a positive patient. Why should they? Had I tested positive, why should I hide? Some even questioned my faith and relationship with God. I had to spend sleepless nights not because of fear of the possibility of getting the virus but because of false rumours, hostility and prejudices. After all these mental tortures what remained in me was a bitter aftertaste. The results came in. I tested negative. That does not mean I cannot contract the disease anymore. Anyone can contract corona virus irrespective of age, gender, religion, profession and other personal values. And with this kind of mental torture and stigmatization, people will fear to seek medical care because of fear of discrimination. This, in turn, can lead to cases not being reported and more people being exposed which makes responding to the outbreak more difficult. So, it is very important to avoid stigmatizing people and we can all do this by understanding that stigma leads to misinformation and that words do matter. Let us talk about and educate each other about the virus but not label or mistreat people with the virus or victimize anybody. Let us talk about positive cases but not be curious to seek identities of the infected peoples or assign blame as if they are intentionally infecting others. Let us use social media to share accurate information about the risk from COVID-19 but not share unconfirmed rumours, and speculative messages that threatens or spread fears. Let us know that mental health is as important as physical health and be more positive and focus on the efficacy of preventive measures and help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Through this column I also wish to express my gratitude to all the departments, frontline workers, healthcare workers, organisations and everyone involved in preventing the spread of the virus for all your selfless deeds and the sacrifices you have been making to help everyone. My experience is just one but there will be many who are facing greater challenges with no one around and we as Christian community should uphold one another through prayers, words, show love and kindness and develop empathetic outlook and defeat the stigma. Let us not be overcome by the virus but overcome the virus with more ethical values and humanity. Together we will get through this and go far. Akune Veswuh, Kohima
Reader’s Post
Stigmatization in the fight against COVID-19
Sir,
COVID deaths are in one way or the other happening because of public stigmatization. Blame game has been doing the rounds on social media platforms, where many Nagas pitilessly blamed the government and doctors for not taking appropriate actions, precautions and awareness. However, they aren’t at fault. It is US. The government of Nagaland had specified three ground rules, “Regular use of Handwash/sanitizers”, “Wearing of face mask” and “Maintaining social distance”, but we have been doing just the opposite. For years we have been attacking the government but today, it has come to us, and we have truly failed. Dimapur noticed more traffic jams than usual during the pandemic. Let alone handshakes and hugs, there has been many social gathering as well. We are in many ways to be blamed for the deaths too, because we have been stigmatizing the rest of the population regarding the same. Many people are afraid to come forward and get tested for the fear of stigma and shaming. Sadly, tackling COVID-19 has also resulted in mass hysteria. In India alone, the outbreak has resulted in stigmatization to the extent that some patients are actually avoiding screening in order to run away from the tag, “COVID-19” patient whether they’re tested negative or positive and the same is happening in Nagaland. Stigma is just as bad as the disease in itself, and maybe even worse because of the mental trauma that comes with it. I don’t know about others but I know that COVID-19 has taught me to be more accepting of people and let them know they are not in this alone. We are all vulnerable. We call ourselves learned people but if this is our way of thinking, we are no better than an animal in the wild. Fight the Virus, not the people. Stop the blame. Bendangchetla Kichu, Borlengri
Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.
national
Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
Islamic State tells Indian cong alleges Raj governor Muslims to be Covid carriers stalling at the behest of Centre MLAs and the reason why the session needed to be called urgently. The governor on Saturday night received a revised proposal from the state cabinet requesting that a session of the assembly be called on July 31, Raj Bhawan sources said on Sunday. Asked if the party would challenge the Rajasthan High Court judgement, Singhvi said the fight was not in the courtroom but in the state assembly where a floor test would determine who has the numbers. At the same time, the Congress spokesperson questioned the high court ruling, pointing out that the apex court has clearly stated in the past that judicial review is not permissible at any stage prior to the making of a decision by the Speaker “If somebody is begging (for the Assembly to be convened) ... and still 4-5 days have passed and now it is going to be seven days if 31st is the date be here. Then, I think this is the worst kind of obstruction of democracy, which is happening under your nose,” Singhvi noted.
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (AGENCIES): While the world grapples with rapidly rising cases of the novel coronavirus, an Islamic State online publication ‘Voice of Hind’, in an attempt to further its anti-India propaganda, has been calling its supporters to use the pandemic as an opportunity to attack India by being Covid19 carriers in the country. India Today TV has accessed two editions of the ‘Voice of Hind’ magazine, an English-language magazine distributed online, which were issued during the lockdown in India. The 17-page “lockdown special” edition of a magazine encourages violence to “kill Kuffars”. It provokes its followers to be ready to take steps to “annihilate the disbelievers”. The cover page of the “lockdown edition” of the magazine, which features an image of the attendees of the Nizamuddin Markaz event and one from the Delhi riots, reads, “Believers stand tall its time for Kuffar to fall (sic)”. As you turn the pages of the Islamic State magazine, you would stumble upon a list of tips on ways to “annihilate the disbelievers”. “Keep
yourselves armed at all times to never miss a chance to kill as many Kuffars as you can. Keep chains, ropes, and wires ready to choke them or beat them to death,” the Islamic State publication states, and, “any sharp object like glass will kill easily”. “Tools like scissors and hammers can come in useful to kill the Kuffar,” it says. Listed as the last point, “Spread Covid virus among as many Kuffar as possible to take them down easily and with less effort.” The “lockdown edition” also names Maulana Saad and Jamaat while appreciating them for being super spreader of the coronavirus. It tells Muslims to revenge the arrests of some Jamia Millia Islamia students arrested in connection with the Delhi riots. The magazine asks Muslims to be coronavirus carriers and spread it among the policemen deployed during the lockdown. Treat Covid-19 as arms against the disbelievers, it said. The Special Cell of Delhi Police had in January busted an Islamic State (IS) terror module in Delhi with the arrest of three terror suspects.
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Indian spy satellite passes over Tibet; China mobilises troops NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (IANS): India’s premier intelligence-gathering satellite EMISAT, operated by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has taken a good look at the positions of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in occupied Tibet. The satellite which carries Kautilya, an ELINT (electronic intelligence) package whose “capabilities are among the most highly-classified and closelyguarded aspects of operation for military purposes on Saturday carried out a pass over PLA positions in occupied Tibet near Arunachal Pradesh,” an official source said. Built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), EMISAT’s ELINT missions monitor radio signals which are used to determine the nature and location of all the sources of transmissions in an enemy area. The satellite pass came a day after talks between India and China over the stand-off over Chinese structures on Finger 4 area along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Pangong Tso in Ladakh, made no headway, even as both sides
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): The Congress on Sunday accused the Rajasthan Governor of resorting to the “worst kind of obstruction of democracy” by raising “superficial and motivated” queries on Ashok Gehlot government’s demand for convening a session of the state assembly. Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said his party wants a floor test in the state assembly and is “begging” for it, but the governor is not convening the House and “delaying” the trust vote allegedly at the behest of the central government. He also cited Supreme Court judgements and several precedents including those of Rajasthan assembly with regard to the convening of the assembly session to assert that the Governor cannot act of his own and can only do so with the advice of the Cabinet. “Such superficial, clearly motivated, digressive and extraneous queries establish beyond doubt that they are coming from the highest authorities of the central government and being parroted without change as His
Master’s Voice from Raj Bhawan, Jaipur. “We all know who that Master is. But, it decimates the lustre and dignity of the Governor’s constitutional position,” Singhvi said at a virtual press conference. Governor Kalraj Mishra had on Friday sought clarifications on six points from the state government, after Congress MLAs held a five-hour dharna on the lawns of the Raj Bhawan in Jaipur pressing for convening of the assembly. The governor asked Chief Minister Asok Gehlot to submit again, with the clarifications, his recommendation for calling a session. A statement from the governor included queries on the free movement of
Hyderabad Mayor tests Covid-19 positive
Prez donates Rs 20 lakh to Army hospital Defence Minister honours Kargil martyrs to buy equipment to combat COVID-19
HYDERABAD, JUL 26 (IANS): Greater Hyderabad Mayor Bonthu Rammohan tested positive for Covid-19, said his office here on Sunday. He is asymptomatic and under home isolation. His family members have tested negative. After one member of his staff tested coronavirus positive recently, the Mayor went into self-quarantine and underwent the test on Saturday. Rammohan is holding review meetings with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) officials on various civic issues through video link. On July 23, the Mayor had attended a programme to lay foundation stone for a flyover along with Municipal Administration Minister K.T. Rama Rao, Home Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali (who recently recovered from Covid-19), Animal Husbandry Minister T. Srinivas Yadav, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi and others.
Ashok Gehlot
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): As a tribute to soldiers who fought in the Kargil war, President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday donated Rs 20 lakh to the Army hospital here to buy equipment that will help doctors and paramedics combat COVID-19 effectively. The contribution from the president will be used to procure units of PAPR (powered air purifying respirator), which are stateof-the-art equipment to enable medical professionals breathe during surgeries and protect them from infection, an official communique said. This will serve the larger cause of patients’ care and protection to those warriors who are fighting an invisible enemy, it said. “As a tribute to soldiers who fought valiantly and made supreme sacrifice in the Kargil war, the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, today presented a cheque of Rs 20 lakh to the Army Hospital (Research
and Referral), Delhi, to buy equipment that will help doctors and paramedics to combat the COVID-19 pandemic effectively,” the statement said. Sunday was the 21st anniversary of India’s victory over Pakistan in the Kargil war. The day is observed as ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’. The president’s contribution to the Army hospital has been made possible due to an exercise to economise expenditure at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the communique said. The president had earlier issued directions to reduce expenses by initiating a slew of measures. “As a sequel to this initiative, he had earlier deferred the proposal to buy a limousine which was to be used for ceremonial occasions,” the statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan said. In his role as the supreme commander of the armed forces, the president’s gesture will boost the morale of the frontline COVID warriors of the Army hospital, it
said. “It will go a long way in providing a safe, conducive environment to them so that they can perform to the best of their ability. It is also hoped that the gesture will inspire other people and organisations to economise expenditure and utilise the savings to aid and support our COVID warriors,” the statement said. The Army Hospital (Research and Referral) is the apex medical care centre for the armed forces of India. Officiating commandant Major General Sarat Chandra Dash was also a participant in “OP VIJAY” for which he was awarded the Yudh Seva Medal, it said. On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army had announced the successful culmination of “Operation Vijay”, declaring victory over Pakistan after the nearly three-monthlong battles in the icy heights of Kargil. The country lost more than 500 soldiers in the war.
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (IANS): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday remembered brave soldiers of the armed forces who fought Pakistani troops and intruders during the Kargil War 21 years ago. The minister laid a wreath and paid homage to the martyred soldiers at the National War Memorial. India observed the 21st anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26 and remembered its brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives to uphold and safeguard the integrity of the nation. On the occasion, the minister said, “On the 21st anniversary of Kargil Vijay, I would like to salute the brave soldiers of the Indian armed forces who fought the enemy under the most challenging conditions that the world had witnessed in recent history.” This day commemorates the success of Operation Vijay which was launched by the armed forces to recapture Indian territories occupied by Pakistani intruders in the Kargil-
part of a regular review cycle after 10 years. The last such review was done in June 2010, a senior officer in an anti-money laundering agency said. The FATF, post this review, had said in 2013 that “India had made significant progress in addressing deficiencies identified in its mutual evaluation report and (the FATF) decided that the country should be removed from the regular follow-up process.” India has set up a joint working group comprising 22 central investigation, intelligence gathering and regulatory agencies to make presentations and brief the FATF experts, drawn from various countries, this time. Some of the prominent agencies in this grouping supervised by the Department of Revenue under the finance ministry include
the CBI, ED, Income Tax Department, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), Customs, market regulator SEBI, banking regulator RBI and insurance regulator IRDAI. The Union government had also deputed Rahul Navin, a 1993-batch Indian Revenue Service officer of the Income Tax Department, to work as an officer on special duty (OSD) with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to take these processes forward. Navin has authored a book, ‘Information Exchange and Tax Transparency: Tackling Global Tax Evasion and Avoidance’, and served in the international taxation wing of the tax department and worked closely with the OECD, another reputed global economic body.
The ED is the nodal agency to undertake investigations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in the country. A senior Union finance ministry official said all preparations to brief the FATF reviewing group were nearing completion when the Covid-19 outbreak happened. “We have been informed by the FATF that it has postponed the mutual evaluation of many jurisdictions scheduled this year including that of India due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. It is expected that the new dates will be for early next year,” the officer told PTI. The FATF too made a public declaration in this context. “The gravity of the Covid-19 situation globally and the consequent Covid-19 related measures that countries have adopted, such as confinement and travel restrictions, are making it impossible for assessed jurisdictions and assessors alike to conduct on-site visits and in-person meetings. This situation has significantly impacted countries’ ability to actively participate in mutual evaluation and related follow-up processes.” “The FATF Plenary has therefore agreed to temporarily postpone all remaining FATF mutual
evaluations and follow-up deadlines,” the FATF said. It said India’s possible on-site period is “tbc (to be considered)”. During the visit of FATF evaluators, the finance ministry officer said, India has prepared to present multiple dossiers of the action undertaken by it under the anti-money laundering law, criminal tax evasion probes and for strengthening the CFT (combating financing of terrorism) regime by the financial intelligence unit (FIU) and other agencies. The enactment of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act in 2018, the antiblack money Act of 2015, amendments brought in the PMLA over the years, curbing tax evasion under indirect taxes by bringing in the GST (goods and services tax), new protocols to better regulate suspect transactions in banks and financial intermediaries and the 2016 demonetisation of two large currencies are part of the Indian presentation, another officer in a probe agency said. The high number of domestic and international attachment of assets under the PMLA and charge sheets filed by various probe agencies under criminal sections of the law against financial crimes and terror funding are also part of India’s presentation to the FATF review team, he said.
have agreed to continue their meetings aimed at disengagement and de-escalation. Sources said the Chinese troops have also been mobilised in Depsang sector, as soldiers could be spotted digging the area on their side of the LAC. The Chinese People’s Liberation Army had also intruded into Depsang in 2013. On Friday, sources said, Indian radar reconnaissance satellite RISAT-2BR1 carried out a pass over Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa. The base is the PLAN’s first overseas military base, built at a massive
cost. Recently, there were reports that three Chinese warships are in the waters near the Djibouti coast. On July 11, EMISAT’s ELINT (Project Kautilya) carried out a pass near Pakistan Navy’s Ormara base (Jinnah Naval Base). The base also has submarine berthing facilities and has reportedly hosted Chinese submarines in recent years. Though India and China remain engaged in talks over the LAC standoff, there is speculation in Ladakh and Kashmir that Pakistan and China are preparing for a two-front war against India during the coming winter.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrives to pay tribute to the martyrs of Kargil war on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, at National War Memorial in New Delhi, July 26. (PTI)
Drass sector in 1999. The minister paid gratitude to those who laid down their lives in the service of the nation and bowed to their families, who despite losing their loved ones, remained steadfast in their support of the national resolve in
BJP, allies welcome FATF review of India’s anti-money laundering delayed 1st batch of Afghan
NEW HELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): The much-awaited Financial Action Task Force (FATF) mutual evaluation of India’s anti-money laundering regime and legal measures framed to check financial crimes, scheduled for this year, has been postponed till early next year in view of the coronavirus pandemic, officials said. They said the on-site review to be conducted by experts of the global body was scheduled to begin in September-October but the FATF secretariat in Paris has conveyed to India that the review is being tentatively pushed to JanuaryFebruary next year. The FATF is a global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog that sets international standards to prevent illegal activities in the economic and financial channels of a country and its inter-connected linkages across the world. It conducts “peer reviews of each member on an ongoing basis to assess levels of implementation of the FATF recommendations and provides an in-depth description and analysis of each country’s system for preventing criminal abuse of the financial system.” The review of India’s antimoney laundering and terrorist financing regime was scheduled for this year as
Representational image.
Sikhs post CAA
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (IANS): Months after the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) came into force, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ally Akali Dal leaders welcomed the first batch of Afghan Sikhs who reached India on Sunday, fleeing religious persecution. BJP Delhi chief Adesh Gupta, national secretary R.P. Singh and Akali Dal leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa welcomed the Afghan Sikhs with saffron stoles, as all of them were visibly relieved to flee from a life of uncertainty. This first batch of Afghan Sikhs reached Delhi on a special flight. They will be accommodated in India under a long term visa arrangement. Many in the first batch lost their near and dear ones in terror attacks in Kabul. Many more persecuted Afghan Sikhs are expected to join in the next few days. This is significant, given that their arrival comes after the much debated Citizenship Amendment Act becomes operational that allows religious minorities other than Muslims from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, fleeing religious persecution, to get a fast track entry in seeking Indian citizenship.
driving out the enemies from Indian territory. “I am also grateful to those who despite becoming disabled in battle, continue to serve the country in their own ways and have set examples worthy of emulation by the nation,” Singh said. He also said that Kar-
gil Vijay Diwas is indeed a celebration of India’s proud tradition of outstanding military service, exemplary valour and sacrifice. “The unwavering courage and patriotism of our armed forces has ensured that India is safe and secure,” said the minister.
UPA lacked political will to boost border infrastructure: Nadda
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (IANS): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief J.P. Nadda attacked the Congressled United Progressive Alliance (UPA) on the occasion of 21 years of Kargil victory, here on Sunday, for allegedly lacking the political will to bolster the border infrastructure and also for alleged defence scams during its rule. Stating that he didn’t want to point fingers on the occasion of the Kargil Vijay Divas, Nadda said former Defence Minister A.K. Antony had said in Parliament India was lagging behind in terms of border infrastructure. “In case of defence, we should know the reality. Yes, we were behind. Also, due to scandals then purchases (of weaponry) didn’t take place,” said Nadda addressing a gathering at the BJP headquarters. He said either the UPA government lacked the political will or the acumen to meet the country’s defence needs. “Today, we can say with pride that after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took over, 36 Rafale fighter jets have come,” said the BJP president. Calling it the changing picture of defence preparedness, he said many Apache and Chinook helicopters had arrived, and
bullet-proof jackets were being manufactured and exported from the country. He said the Congress-led UPA government slept over 72 border projects, and added, all of them were “near completion” today under the leadership of Modi. “Today other countries are worried because all border roads, tunnels and bridges are complete. Now we can take defence requirements to borders in a few hours,” he said comparing the NDA with the UPA. While 3,610 km of border roads were built between 2008 and 2014, during the NDA rule (between 2014 and 2020) 4,764 km roads were completed, he said. Underlining to the BJP’s pro-army outlook, he pointed to ‘one rank, one pension’ decision and said for every BJP worker “nation first” was the mantra. “The Prime Minister visited Ladakh, spent the entire day there, held meetings, boosted the morale of soldiers and met injured jawans. It sent across the message that 130 crore Indians, under the leadership of Modi, were standing with the army,” Nadda said. The BJP president also paid floral tributes to martyrs at BJP headquarters.
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National/state
PM recalls valour of soldiers in Kargil
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): Hailing the valour of the armed forces during the Kargil war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked people to speak and act keeping in mind the morale of soldiers and asserted that wars are fought not just on borders but on many fronts within the country too. In his monthly ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address, which coincided with the 21st anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the prime minister also hit out at Pakistan for the conflict and said Islamabad responded to New Delhi’s hand of friendship by stabbing it in the back. The Kargil war was declared over on July 26, 1999 after Indian soldiers pushed back Pakistani troops, a bulk of them drawn from the neighbouring country’s Northern Light Infantry, from the captured peaks in Kargil. People must remember that their conduct and remarks should boost the morale and respect of soldiers, Modi said, urging everyone to do everything to further national unity.
Narendra Modi “People bound by a thread of unity with the mantra that the nation is above everything else bolster the strength of our soldiers more than a thousand times,” he said. Modi also spoke of the dangers of social media. At times, without paying heed to the essence, people encourage certain things on social media “that are detrimental to the country”, he said. “There are times when we forward things out of sheer curiosity. Despite knowing that it is wrong, we keep doing it. These days, wars are fought not just on borders, they are fought on many fronts simultaneously within the country too.
“And every citizen has to decide his or her role in that. We, too, should determine our roles, fully keeping in mind the soldiers fighting on the borders under the harshest of conditions,” he said. The prime minister’s comments come as Indian and Chinese armies are locked in a standoff in Ladakh. Modi recalled the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Independence Day speech after the Kargil war and said it is relevant even today. Vajpayee, he said, had then reminded the nation of Gandhi’s mantra -- in the face of any dilemma, in order to decide what to do or what not to do, one must think of the poorest and the most helpless person of India; one must assess whether one’s deed will result in benefitting that particular person or not. “Going beyond Gandhi-ji’s thought, Atal-ji had said the Kargil war has given us another mantra. Before taking any important decision, we should think whether our step, our endeavour is befitting to the honour of the soldier
who laid down his life in those remote mountains,” the prime minister said as he played out a brief clip of Vajpayee’s speech. India can never forget the circumstances under which the conflict took place, he stressed. “Pakistan had embarked upon this misadventure, nursing delusions of encroaching upon Indian soil, to distract attention from the internal strife prevailing there. India was then in the process of making efforts to foster good relations with Pakistan,” he said. Modi also said when India extended a hand of friendship, Pakistan tried to respond, “stabbing in the back”. In an indirect warning to China, without naming it, PM Modi said it is in some people’s nature to keep becoming enemies. Referring to an old saying, he said, “To the wicked, enmity with one and all for no reason comes naturally. People with such a disposition keep thinking of harming even their wellwishers.” The whole world
watched when the Indian Army displayed deeds of valour in Kargil and India demonstrated its might, the prime minister said. “You can imagine ... the enemy lodged in the soaring mountainous heights and our armed forces fighting from down below. But it was not about victoriously conquering the heights. It was the victory of high morale and bravery of our armed forces in the truest sense of the term,” he said. He said he, too, got an opportunity to visit Kargil and witness the gallantry of the jawans and described the day as one of the most precious moments of his life. Referring to Independence Day celebrations this year, the prime minister said they come in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and would be very different. Urging the youth to take a pledge of freedom from the pandemic this August 15, Modi said, “Take a resolve for a self reliant India, a resolve to learn and teach something new and a resolve to earnestly carry out our duties.”
Nagaland Post, Dimapur monDAY, JULY 27, 2020
India projected to have 35 lakh COVID-19 cases... (From p-1) Perhaps, the government does not want to ‘scare the public’ by admitting there is community transmission and this could be one of the reasons behind this denial mode. - The fatality rate has not been high compared to other countries. But this is changing, as more tests are being conducted and more cases come to light and there is also an incidence of acute cases. Plus, the hospitals are ‘getting flooded’ and are increasingly unable to handle the severe cases. Therefore, the fatality rates are going up. - Proportionately, the
number of infected cases is relatively low as of now, as compared to the United States and Brazil. But the reality is that India is facing ‘a very precarious situation’. Since the infection cases are going up ‘at a very alarming rate’, the situation can ‘go out of control at any point’ from now onward. - One problem is that people are not taking ‘social distancing’ seriously in the far-flung regions of India. Therefore, it is small comfort that India is doing relatively better than the US or Brazil as of now. The truth is that India is in ‘a very precarious position’ and needs to be ‘very, very
careful to make sure that the situation does not explode.’ Things are going to get a lot worse before they get any better in India. The world community must be aware that the Indian people are grappling with an existential crisis and for a foreseeable future, Indian economy will be in doldrums, and its capacity to perform on the ‘global commons’ is severely restricted. The IISc study becomes a benchmark to judge the performance of the government. Searchlights are going to be held by the world community in the weeks and months ahead as the fatality rate starts shooting up.
Democracy will function in accordance with Constitution, echo voice of people: Rahul
NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said democracy in the country will function in accordance with the Constitution and echo the voice of the people, who will reject the BJP’s “conspiracy of deceit and deception.” He was participating in the Congress’s “SpeakUpForDemocracy” online campaign to expose what it called the designs of the BJP to topple the Ashok Gehlot
dispensation in Rajasthan and other State governments run by opposition parties. A large number of party leaders participated in the digital campaign. “India’s democracy will function in accordance with the Constitution and echo the voice of the people. The people of the country will protect democracy and the Constitution by rejecting the BJP’s conspiracy of deceit and deception,” he said in a tweet in Hindi.
Instead of fighting COVID & China, Centre High time Cong gets full-time president: Sandeep Dikshit conspiring to topple Cong govts: Maken Says CWC should have
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NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): The Congress should have settled the leadership issue earlier and it is “high time” that a full-time president is appointed by “selection or election”, party leader Sandeep Dikshit said on Sunday, asserting that the Congress Working Committee (CWC) comprising senior leaders should have dealt with the issue on priority. There is a “sense of drift” and a feeling that “we need to get on with the job” in the party with an interim president at the helm, Dikshit said. In an interview to PTI, the Congress leader said that for him, there was no “particular fixation” with
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Sandeep Dikshit one of the reasons that she left earlier was that she felt that it is time for her to take to the background and for other people to take over. In her case, it was Mr (Rahul) Gandhi,” Dikshit said. “Here’s an interim arrangement. Interim is a very iffy word because you know if you are interim you won’t take long term decisions for the Congress. So, it is high time we get a full time president, whoever it is,”
constantly maintain that here is the place where I point towards the inability of our senior leaders (CWC members) to have risen to the challenge, got together and got this thing done,” Dikshit said. “ M r G a n d h i ve r y clearly made a statement that I am not coming back, then what were you (senior leaders) busy doing running around and not being able to decide,” he said, adding that they should have got the process done. Noting that the CWC could not agree on one name and so it decided Sonia Gandhi should become interim president, Dikshit also pointed towards Scindia and Pilot for not taking a stand then as CWC members and enable a decision either then or later, whenever the party’s top decision-making body met.
Farooq Abdullah calls for restoration of statehood to J&K; pins hopes on SC NEW DELHI, JUL 26 (PTI): As the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status is set to complete one year on August 5, former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Sunday called for restoration of its statehood and hoped the Supreme Court would render justice by striking down the repeal of Article 370 provisions. In his first media interview after the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution that ended the erstwhile state’s special status, Abdullah, 82, told PTI that his party would continue to contest the changes through all democratic means. These changes were a “betrayal” of the trust reposed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir when the State acceded to the Union of India, he said. The Centre had abrogated the special status on August 5 last year, saying Article 370 had stalled the development of Jammu and Kashmir, prevented proper education, health care and growth of industries besides not helping in curbing terrorism. The National Conference (NC), of which Abdullah is the President, has mounted a legal challenge in the Supreme Court to the abrogation of Article 370 and carving out of two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh from the erstwhile state. The legislation passed by Parliament and the subsequent orders issued by the President were “unconstitutional”, it has submitted in the apex court which has
scrapped on August 5 and spent over seven months in detention. Abdullah, who has served three terms as the border state’s chief minister, said, “We will fight for our rights, campaign for our rights within democratic means. We have never used guns, we have never used methods which are not constitutional. We Farooq Abdullah are a democratic mainset up a five-member bench stream party and will use all democratic means at to hear the matter. “As a political party it our disposal.” is but natural that we will keep the people informed LAND FOR SALE about what we are doing Flat land for sale by owners to get justice. We are very relocating East owners relocating clear that we do not ac- East Facing 283×219 with Ring cept the changes forced Well, Electricity, 2 toilets [w/I], on us and will continue septic/soakpit tank, 3 big Assam to oppose them,” said the type houses, 3 chicken houses, boundary wall [to be completed], veteran leader who was Good for residential/business, at arrested hours before Ar- Dhansiripar near new railway line ticle 370 provisions were to Kohima. # 6009201522
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topple the Rajasthan government that these “disruptive forces” want to make democracy a slave of the “Delhi Durbar” and a puppet in their hands. The majority verdict is being murdered in Rajasthan and the public mandate crushed, the Congress leader said. He said the most worrying aspect is that the Constitution and established constitutional traditions are being ruthlessly trampled by the BJP. Maken also said it appears that the hope for justice from the judiciary is diminishing and people occupying constitutional posts such as governors are seen as helpless and unable to protect the Constitution.
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rus pandemic. The countrymen are facing a severe economic crisis. More than 14 crore jobs have been lost according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE). “Small businesses are on the verge of closure. China has taken over our territory. But Prime Minister Narendra Modi, instead of fighting the coronavirus, the economic crisis and China, is conspiring to topple Congress governments,” he said. “The reality is that the Modi government and the BJP have launched an attack on democracy and the Constitution,” Maken added. He said it is clear from the BJP’s “conspiracy” to
the 55-year-old former MP said. Whether it is through “selection or election” there is no issue, he said. “We should have a fulltime president, whether it is Mr. A or Mr. B or Mr. Gandhi that is not an issue at all. Party ideology and collective leadership make a party,” Dikshit said. He said initially it was thought that the CWC, the party’s highest decision making body, will come together and select a president or maybe among themselves elect one, but that has not happened. It is not a bad idea to leave it open to the All India Congress Committee (AICC), where one can also have an election to the working committee, he said. “It (appointment of full-time president) should have happened earlier. I
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JAIPUR, JUL 26 (PTI): Congress leader Ajay Maken accused the Centre on Sunday of conspiring to topple the Congress governments in various states, instead of fighting the financial crisis, COVID-19 and China. He also said to protect the Constitution and democracy, Congress workers will stage protests in front of the Raj Bhawans across the country on Monday. Addressing a press conference here, the former Union minister alleged that the Centre and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have launched an attack on democracy and the Constitution. “The country is battling against the coronavi-
any person, and Rahul Gandhi or anyone else could be appointed by “selection or election”, but the important thing is that the party needs a full-time president. Dikshit’s remarks assume significance as Sonia Gandhi nears completion of one-year as interim Congress president in early August and the party is abuzz with hectic parleys on the way forward. He also hit out at Jyotiraditya Scindia for switching to the BJP and Sachin Pilot for his rebellion in Rajasthan, asserting that the fight was not between the young and the old in the party, but between the “usurpers” and those persevering through hardwork. “Much as I would say that Mrs (Sonia) Gandhi is doing a very able and commendable job (as president),
The ITER facility aims to produce about 500 megawatts of thermal power. manufacturing came to an end in India. An industrial adventure that began in 2012 has come to an end for Larsen & Toubro teams in Hazira in Gujarat. Eight years later, 12 segments of the top lid plus one central disk, 650 tonnes in all, will be assembled and welded on site. Earlier, the soup-bowlshaped stainless steel base of the cryostat -- the foundation of the machine that is India’s in-kind contribution to ITER -- was lowered the neighbouring tokamak pit in ITER on May 28. This operation to lower the heaviest single component of the ITER machine
SL to conduct advance polling for people under quarantine Colombo, Jul 26 (PTI): Sri Lanka has set July 31 as the date for advance voting for persons under quarantine, National Elections Commission Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said on Sunday ahead of the August 5 vote. Over 16 million voters are registered to vote on August 5 to elect a 225member parliament for a 5-year term. The election commission has been struggling to make arrangements for a free and fair poll due to the health risks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “The pandemic has forced the election authorities to set an advance polling day for those under quarantine,” Deshapriya said. “Now those under quarantine would be allowed to vote on July 31,” he said. Deshapriya said earlier the commission had agreed with political parties that advance voting would be done on two days - July 31 and August 4. But August 4 was not a feasible date due to election preparations. Deshapriya said the identities of the voters under home
quarantine would not be revealed to the media. This will be the firstever election in Sri Lanka to have an advance polling date other than the postal voting for persons on election duties. Sri Lanka has already extended the polling time for the twice-postponed August 5 parliamentary elections by one hour after conducting several mock polls in adherence to the safety guidelines due to the coronavirus pandemic. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved the Parliament, six months ahead of schedule, and called for snap polls on April 25. However, the election commission in mid-April postponed the elections by nearly two months to June 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak in the island nation. The commission last month informed the apex court that the polls cannot be held on June 20 because of the coronavirus pandemic and the new date was decided following a unanimous decision reached between the members of the commission.
marked the culmination of a 10-year effort to design, manufacture, deliver, assemble and weld one of the most crucial components of the machine that will act as a thermos, insulating the magnetic system at cryogenic temperature from the outside environment. The elements for the base section were delivered to ITER in December 2015 and the 1,250-tonne component was finalized in July last year. Also, the design of control (variable frequency drives, electrical panels, etc.) for the ITER cooling water system equipment was jointly done by ITERIndia and L&T, while the
manufacturing was carried out at L&T’s Hazira facility. ITER-India is the Indian domestic agency -- a specially empowered project of the Institute for Plasma Research (IPR), an organization under the Department of Atomic Energy. ITER-India is responsible for delivery of cryostat, in-wall shielding, cooling water system, cryogenic system, ion-cyclotron RF heating system, electron cyclotron RF heating system, diagnostic neutral beam system, power supplies and some diagnostics. Adhering to strict safety guidelines during
the Covid-19 pandemic, ITER spokesperson Laban Coblentz told IANS, “We are massively teleworking, both staff and contractors, but still able to maintain critical activities onsite, and have been making progress.” ITER is made possible through the work of thousands of scientists, engineers, workers of all trades and industries across the globe. The ITER facility is being built in Saint-Paulles-Durance, some 35 km north of Aix-en-Provence in southern France. It will work on the tokamak concept where the reaction of hydrogen isotopes deuterium and tritium produces energy by the mass-energy conversion principle, thereby proving to be a source of unlimited energy. The project aims to complete through first plasma in 2025, a key milestone toward full fusion power by 2035. The ITER facility aims to produce about 500 megawatts of thermal power. Europe will contribute almost half of the cost of its construction, while the other six members of this joint international venture (China, India, Japan, Korea, Russia and the US) will contribute equally to the rest.
Police corral crowds as movers leave US Consulate in China
A resident unfurls a Chinese national flag from an apartment block across from the US Consulate in Chengdu. (PTI)
Chengdu, Jul 26 (AP): Moving trucks and vehicles with diplomatic plates pulled out of a US Consulate in southwest China on Sunday, as its impending closure over rising bilateral tensions drew a steady stream of onlookers for the second straight day. People stopped to take selfies and photos, jamming a sidewalk busy with shoppers and families with strollers on a sunny day in the city of Chengdu. A little boy posed with a small Chinese flag before plainclothes police shooed him away as foreign media cameras zoomed in. The capital of Sichuan
province, along with Houston in Texas, has found itself in the limelight of international politics as China and the U.S. exchanged tit-for-tat orders last week to close each other’s consulates in the two heartland cities. Police in Chengdu have shut the street and sidewalk in front of the consulate and set up metal barriers along the sidewalk on the other side of the tree-lined road. Uniformed and plainclothes officers kept watch on both sides of the barriers after scattered incidents following the Chengdu announcement on Friday, including a man who set off firecrackers and hecklers
who cursed at foreign media shooting video and photos of the scene. A man who tired to unfurl a banner or sign late Sunday that he called an open letter to the Chinese government was quickly taken away. Earlier, a bus left the consulate grounds and what appeared to be embassy staff spoke with plainclothes police before retreating back behind the property’s solid black gates. It wasn’t clear who or what was on the bus. Three medium-size trucks arrived and left a few hours later, and cars with diplomatic plates departed in between. China ordered the closing of the Chengdu consulate in retaliation for a US order earlier in the week to close the Chinese Consulate in Houston. The US alleged that the Houston consulate was a nest of Chinese spies who tried to steal data from facilities in Texas, including the Texas A&M medical system and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. China said the allegations were “malicious slander.”
Hurricane Hanna makes landfall in Texas
Heavy rain, strong winds and storm surge impacted the southern Texas coast. H o u s to n, J u l 2 6 (IANS): Hanna, the first of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season, has made landfall in the US state of Texas, with maximum winds of 90 mph and heavy rains. K Y M C
Hanna morphed from a tropical storm into a Category 1 hurricane on Saturday and made landfall on Padre Island at 5 p.m., about 53 km south of Corpus Christi, Xinhua news agency quoted the
National Hurricane Center as saying. Heavy rain, strong winds and storm surge impacted the southern Texas coast. “Significant structural damage” and a gust up to
83 mph were reported in nearby Port Mansfield, the National Weather Service in Brownsville said in a tweet on Saturday afternoon. Some meteorologists warned of flash flooding and local authorities asked residents to stay home. Officials in Nueces County warned of dangerous storm surge and flooding, while in Willacy County, officials advised people in Port Mansfield to evacuate. Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 32 counties on Saturday in view of “a threat of imminent disaster, including property damage and loss of life, due to widespread flooding, storm surge, and hurricane force winds”. Many of the counties have been ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic in recent weeks. “Any hurricane is an enormous challenge,” Abbott said during a Saturday
briefing about the storm. “This challenge is complicated and made even more severe, seeing that it’s sweeping through an area that is the most challenged area in the state for COVID-19.” More than 68,000 homes and businesses were without power across Texas as of 8 p.m. on Saturday, mostly in the coastal region, according to PowerOutage.US, a website that collects live power outage data from utilities all over the country. “My administration is closely monitoring Hurricane Douglas off Hawaii & Hurricane Hanna, which has now made landfall in Texas. We continue to coordinate closely with both states,” President Donald Trump tweeted Saturday night. Hanna, expected to weaken quickly as it moves inland, is now heading westward across South Texas, according to the Weather Channel reports.
Singapore reports 481 new COVID-19 cases; all foreigners Singapore, Jul 26 (PTI): Singapore reported 481 new COVID-19 cases, all foreigners, on Sunday as the nationwide tally of the infections touched 50,369, the health ministry said. Of the new cases, 476 are migrant workers living in dormitories, while five community cases reported are also foreigners holding work passes, said the Ministry of Health (MOH). There are also four imported cases, who had been placed on stay-home notice upon their arrival in Singapore. On Thursday, the MOH said the average number of new daily cases in the community in a week has decreased from nine cases two weeks ago to seven in the past week. Meanwhile, two of the six imported cases reported on Saturday were permanent residents here who had returned from India on July 12 and from the UK on
July 10. The remaining four imported patients are dependant’s pass holders who arrived from India between July 11 and July 13, including a three-year-old boy, an Indian national who had no symptoms. Human trials for a COVID-19 vaccine could begin in Singapore as early as this week, involving 108 healthy volunteers of various ages, reported The Sunday Times. The volunteers will be injected with the vaccine developed by Duke-NUS Medical School and United States pharmaceutical company Arcturus Therapeutics. Called Lunar-Cov19, the vaccine is one of 25 vaccine candidates worldwide that either have been tested on humans, or have received approval to do so. Some 141 others are still at a pre-clinical phase. Professor Ooi Eng
Eong, Deputy Director of Duke-NUS Medical School’s emerging infectious diseases programme, told The Sunday Times that the aim of the trial is to determine the safety of the vaccine, and whether it could coax the desired immune response in the body against Sars-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Blood samples will be taken from the volunteers several times after vaccination for analysis. As immune system elements such as antibodies and T-cells are found in blood, the data will help scientists determine if the vaccine is successful in stimulating the body to produce the “soldiers” critical for helping the body fight off an infection. Recently published results from human trials for other vaccine candidates have already shown encouraging signs on these fronts.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We the Covid-19 Committee, Toulazouma Village would like to extend our sincere appreciation to each individual and well -wishers, and different organizations who support us physically, financially, materially and spiritually for the success of our community Quarantine Centre. (A ) INDIVIDUAL DONORS: 1. Shri. Bodurul Mistri Rs. 500/ 50. Shri. Khriehuto Tsira Rs. 1000/ 2. Dr. Nshoga Rengma Rs. 1000/ 51. Shri. Pfukrolhi Khesoh Rs. 500/ 3. Er. Shekhotso Vero Rs. 1500/ 52. Shri. Mairiliamang Zeliang Rs. 2000/ 4. Shri. Sovenyi Nyekha Rs. 5000/ 53. Dr. Lhouveta Nyekha Rs. 1000/ 5. Shri. Rayilung Rs. 5000/ 54. Er. Vekho Swuro Rs. 1000/ 6. Shri. Pausui Zeliang Rs. 5000/ 55. Shri. Neito Kapfo Rs. 500/ 7. Shri. Zhopra Vero Rs. 2000/ 56. Shri. Nzio Lotha Rs. 200/ 8. Shri. T.A.P. Pual Rs. 2000/ 57. Shri. Masheto Rengma Rs. 500/ 9. Shri. Asa Chase Rs. 1500/ 58. Shri. Khrielie Rs. 500/ 10. Shri. Abel Tureng Rs. 1000/ 59. Smt. Tosono Kenye Rs. 1000/ 11. Shri. Mhasekhoyi Nyekha Rs. 2000/ 60. Shri. Tsote Therie Rs. 1000/ 12. Shri. Poshutho Joshu Rs. 3000/ 61. Shri. Dijinbou Zeliang Rs. 500/ 13. Shri. Zhoto Nienu Rs. 500/ 62. Shri. Liavini Zho Rs. 2000/ 14. Shri. Kedunyi Khape Rs. 1000/ 63. Shri. Toto Kajiri Rs. 500/ 15. Shri. Khruvazo Vero Rs. 1000/ 64. Shri. Neilavo Mero Rs. 1000/ 16. Shri. Kunungoi Medo Rs. 500/ 65. Shri. Vecito Dozo Rs. 1000/ 17. Smt. Hiitsolu Chiizo Rs. 500/ 66. Shri. Vete Venuh Rs. 1000/ 18. Shri. Kote Mero Rs. 1000/ 67. Shri. Muliito Venuh Rs. 1000/ 19. Shri. Meyie Mero Rs. 2000/ 68. Shri. Teisovilhou Rs. 500/ 20. Shri. Phuketo Swu Rs. 1500/ 69. Shri Ramchet singh Rs. 500/ 21. Shri. Chizuh Phom Rs. 1000/ 70. Shri. Rohit yadav Rs. 500/ 22. Smt. Arele Nuh Rs. 1000/ 71. Shri. S. Richard Humtsoe Rs. 1000/ 23. Shri. Mhianeizoto Meyase Rs. 2000/ 72. Shri. Kelhousede Angami Rs. 500/ 24. Shri. Hewoto Sema Rs. 1000/ 73. Shri. Neizevotuo Dziivichii Rs. 500/ 25. Shri. Ato Pochury Rs. 700/ 74. Shri. Asikh Uddin Rs. 2000/ 26. Smt. Vihoni Rs. 150/ 75. Shri. Kashi Chakesang Rs. 1000/ 27. Shri. Wezute Khalo Rs. 500/ 76. Shri. Neirelie Rs. 2000/ 28. Shri. Vekuso Rs. 200/ 77. Dr. Zutewe Lohe Rs. 1000/ 29. Dr. Kuotsiitho Nyusou Rs. 2000/ 78. Shri. Lokho Peter Rs. 1000/ 30. Shri. Shiekhoyi Neinu Rs. 1000/ 79. Shri. Kehokhulie Rs. 1000/ 31. Shri. Mhabemo Ezung Rs. 3000/ 80. Shri. Teyiekro Tase Rs. 500/ 32. Shri. Dezoto Rhakho Rs. 2000/ 81. Shri. John Nuh Rs. 500/ 33. Shri. Neipezii Kapfo Rs. 200/ 82. Shri. Vekhozo Rs. 1000/ 34. Smt. Lily Mero Rs. 500/ 83. Smt. Alhing Rs. 2000/ 35. Shri. Kushubu Rs. 200/ 84. Shri. Bosco Rs. 200/ 36. Smt. Marina Rs. 1000/ 85. Shri. Eshuo Thomas Rs. 200/ 37. Smt. Benidita Rs. 1000/ 86. Shri. John Khrievino Rs. 500/ 38. Shri. Kevepo Martin Rs. 200/ 87. Shri. Medolelhou Rs. 500/ 39. Shri. Thazu Thomas Rs. 200/ 88. Smt. Kelevonuo Yhome Rs. 1000/ 40. Shri. Adaho john Rs. 500/ 89. Smt. Neizonuo Dziivichii Rs. 1000/ 41. Shri. Kethokietuo Rs. 500/ 90. Shri. Pecha Meyase Rs. 300/ 42. Shri. Kholi Rs. 200/ 91 Smt. Kaini Rs. 100/ 43. Shri. John Linyii Rs. 100/ 92. Smt. Abunuo Rs. 100/ 44. Shri. Jacob Marak Rs. 100/ 93. Smt. Toli Puyo-o Rs. 2200/ 45. Shri. Abraham Marak Rs. 100/ 94. Smt. Sanuo Sanchu Rs. 500/ 46. Shri. Benjamin Dawhuo Rs. 500/ 95. Shri. Marihe Dawhuo Rs. 500/ 47. Smt. Averesta Kapu Rs. 500/ 96. Shri. Dasuo Ambros Rs. 200/ 48. Smt. Athia Maria Rs. 300/ 97. Shr. Michael Pao Rs. 100/ 49. Smt. Witingret Chewang Rs. 2000/ 98. Shri. Neitsolo Venuh Rs. 600/ Sub-Total = Rs. 99,850/(B) CHURCHES/ORGANISATION: 1. Sacred Heart Church Toulazouma. = Rs. 2000/2. Toulazouma Baptist Church (Angami). = Rs. 5000/3. Liangmai Baptist Church, Toulazouma. = Rs. 5000/4. Chakhesang Baptist Church, Toulazouma. = Rs. 10000/5. Pochury Baptist Church,Toulazouma. = Rs. 5000/6. United Baptist Church, Toulazouma. = Rs. 5000/7. Village Council, Toulazouma. = Rs. 60000/8. Contribution from Returnees = Rs. 37500/Sub- Total = Rs. 1,29,500/A. Donation in kinds (materials). 1. Sacred Heart School Toulazouma. School compound and Building. 2. Toulazouma Village Council Rice- 5 bag, Dal -1 bag. 3. Mrs. Aungjong Phom Biscuits, tea leaf, sugar & M/powder 4. Miss Bedunelu & family Cucumbers ( 6 kgs) 5. Chakhesang women Dept.(C.B.C.T) Cold drinks ( 1 carton box) 6. Western Chakhesang Hoho Rice- 2 bag, PPE- 1 set, Egg- 3 plates, Potato- 1 bag, 1 Moist sprayer. 7. Shri. Teisovilhou One bag of rice ( 50 kgs) 8. Smt. Banuo Tsalisie One bag of rice ( 25 kgs) 9. Angami Youth Dept. (T.B.C) One time dinner 10. Smt. Nungoyi Medeo Water supply 11. Bible Society Of India 26 nos Holy Bible 12. Mosa Nukhu Plastic commode 13. Shri. Vekope Venuh Plastic commode 14. Chakhesang church Mineral water 15. Sato Kezo Plastic commode B. Provide Food Service:1. Village Council, Toulazouma 3 days, 8. Pochury Baptist Church,Toulazouma. 1 day, 2. Women Organisation, Toulazouma 2 days, 9. United Baptist Church, Toulazouma 1 day, 3. Chakhesang Baptist Church, 10. Chakhesang Women Society Toulazouma 2 days Toulazouma 1 day, 4. Liangmai Baptist Church, Toulazouma 2 days, 11. Women Dept. Pochury Baptist Church (T) 1 day, 5. Toulazouma Baptist Church 12. Youth Dept. Toulazouma Baptist Church, (Angami) 2 days (Angami) (T) 1 dinner 6. Sacred Heart Church, Toulazouma 2 days, 13. Lonyiu Kapfo & family 1 dinner. 7. Covid-19 Committee Toulazouma 12 days. The Committee deeply regret on our part for our inability to thank each and every members but it is our sincere prayer that Almighty God bless all abundantly. DP-3323
Largest fusion plant in France to create history
New Delhi, Jul 26 (IANS): This Tuesday the world will mark a historic moment with the start of machine assembly of world’s largest experimental fusion reactor at ITER facility in southern France in the virtual presence of host nation President Emmanuel Macron and government leaders from the seven ITER members, including India. O f f i c i a l s s ay t h e launch of the ITER assembly phase is made possible by the arrival of components from all over the world in recent months. It demonstrates the willingness of 30,000 people of the 35 partner countries and a million complements of the ITER international research project to join together in an enduring way in their common fight against climate change. French President Macron and leaders from the European Union, China, India, Japan, Korea, Russia and the ITER Organisation declare the beginning of a new energy era with the official start of the assembly of the fusion device at ITER. Participation will be largely virtual and the event will be broadcast on YouTube live, a spokesperson for ITER told IANS. This month cryostat
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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
(P. Pochury) Secretary Covid-19 committee, Toulazouma
(Vesurayi Puyo-o) Convenor Covid-19 committee, Toulazouma K Y M C
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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
Man United and Chelsea book Champions League spots Watford, Bournemouth relegated
(From L-R) Players of Manchester United and Chelsea celebrate after scoring during their respective matches on the final matchday of Premier League.
London , J u l 2 6 (Agencies): Manchester United and Chelsea have sealed spots in next season's Champions League, after the two clubs won their final matches of the season to confirm their places in the top four. With Sunday's results, United and Chelsea will join title-winners Liverpool and second-place Manchester City in the Champions League next season, with the Red Devils sealing their return to the competition after finishing sixth last season.
Meanwhile, Leicester City and Tottenham are headed to the Europa League after their results on Sunday, with Wolves left waiting for the result of the FA Cup final, which will determine their European fate. United confirmed a top-four finish thanks to a 2-0 win over Leicester, scoring twice in the second half following a tense first 45 minutes. The game's pivotal moment came in the 70th minute when Bruno Fernandes fired past Kasper
Schmeichel from the spot after Jonny Evans fouled Anthony Martial inside the box. Jesse Lingard then selaed the victory in the eighth minute of stoppage time. Fe r n a n d e s ' g o a l doomed Leicester to a fifthplace finish, with the Foxes needing all three points against the Red Devils. Leicester's recent results saw the Foxes fall all the way from second to fifth, after the club remained in the top four from September 21 to July 22 before failing to return on
Halep withdraws from Palermo Open
Simona Halep
Palermo, Jul 26 (AP): Second-ranked Simona Halep withdrew from the Palermo Ladies Open Sunday following a quarantine ordinance issued by Italy’s health ministry. “Given the recent rise in Covid19 cases in Romania and my anxieties around international air travel at this time, I have made the tough decision to
withdraw from Palermo,” Halep tweeted. “I want to thank the tournament director and the Italian ministry of health for all efforts on my behalf.” The August 3-9 tournament announced Sunday that the Romanian player’s manager, Virginia Ruzici, had informed Palermo officials of the decision.
The move comes after Italy’s health minister on Friday signed an ordinance requiring all those who have in the last 14 days stayed in Romania or Bulgaria to quarantine. “We were filled with regret when informed of the news,” tournament director Oliviero Palma said. “We had informed Halep’s staff in detail about the fact that professional players shouldn’t have to go into quarantine. But nevertheless Halep’s staff informed us when their decision was already taken. We are disheartened and deeply upset,” Palma added. Palma also said that a regional health minister had sent Halep a notice explaining that the government ordinance does not apply to workers, and therefore to professional athletes. Four other top-20 players remain entered: No. 14 Johanna Konta of Britain, No. 15 Petra Martic of Croatia, No. 18 Markéta Vondrousova of the Czech Republic and No. 20 Maria Sakkari of Greece.
the final day of the Premier League season. Chelsea, meanwhile booked their Champions League spot with a 2-0 win over Wolves, with the Blues going into Sunday knowing that even a point would be enough to seal their spot in Europe's top competition. The Blues all but confirmed their top-four finish with a two-goal flurry just before half-time, with Mason Mount's stunning free-kick giving Chelsea the lead in the first minute of first-half stoppage time. Just three minutes lat-
er, their lead was doubled, with Olivier Giroud adding the Blues' second while severely damaging Wolves' hopes on the day. With Wolves' loss, Tottenham were able to push their way into a sixth-place finish thanks to a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace. Spurs originally took the lead in the 13th minute thanks to a finish for Harry Kane, but Palace were able to fire back in the 53rd minute through Jeffrey Schlupp. As a result, Spurs moved into sixth to book
an automatic spot in the Europa League, while Wolves will need Chelsea to beat Arsenal in the FA Cup final this weekend for their seventh-place finish to be enough. MATCH RESULTS Chelsea 2 – 0 Wolves Leicester 0 – 2 Man Utd Southampton 3 – 1 Sheffield Newcastle 1 – 3 Liverpool West Ham 1 – 1 Aston Villa Burnley 1 – 2 Brighton Arsenal 3 – 2 Watford Man City 5 – 0 Norwich Crystal Palace 1 – 1 Spurs Everton 1 – 3 Bournemouth
Bayern’s Pavard injured ahead of CL match vs Chelsea
Conte rubbishes Messi talks
Munich, Jul 26 (Agencies): Bayer n Munich are awaiting updates after Benjamin Pavard suffered an injury two weeks ahead of the Champions League last-16 second leg against Chelsea. Pavard reportedly injured his ankle in a training game on Sunday and had to cut the session short to receive treatment. The scare comes as Bayern step up preparations for their August 8 clash with Frank Lampard’s side in Munich, where they will look to defend a 3-0 lead from the first game. “Benjamin Pavard sustained an injury,” head coach Hansi Flick confirmed in a media conference after training on Sunday. “We are not quite sure exactly what happened, we will have to wait for the diagnosis now. We’re not quite sure how long he will be missing, or if he will be missing. We will have to
wait and see.” There was better news for Niklas Sule, who continues to work his way back from a serious knee injury. The centre-back has not played since rupturing an anterior cruciate ligament in October, although he did make the bench for the DFP-Pokal final win over Bayer Leverkusen this month. Sule, 24, put in extra training time while his team-mates took a break after that match and the Germany international could get the chance to prove his fitness in a friendly against Marseille on Friday. “I’m very happy with him, with the way he’s training and the intensity he’s training with,” Flick said. New signings Leroy Sane and Tanguy Kouassi are ineligible to face Chelsea and will not be used in the Marseille match, but Flick has been happy with how the pair have adapted to their surroundings.
Milan, Jul 26 (IANS): Manager Antonio Conte dismissed talks linking Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi with Inter Milan and also branded such rumours as fantasy football. Few reports have linked Messi with a possible move to Italy. Conte, however, played down such talks linking Messi with a possible move to Inter in the near future. “We’re talking about fantasy football, situations that at the moment cannot be linked to Inter. For many reasons,” Conte told reporters. “I don’t think there’s a madman in the world who wouldn’t want Messi. But that kind of situation really is very, very, very far from Inter, from what we are doing and what we are trying to build.” “We need to create a solid base, and then maybe... I repeat, this is fantasy football; however, I like the fact that when fantasy football is involved, the team that is linked to it is always Inter,” he added.
Watford and Bournemouth were relegated from Premier League on Sunday – the final day of the rearranged season. Bournemouth, Watford and Aston Villa were looking to avoid joining already relegated Norwich in the Championship next season. Villa did what they needed to, securing a 1-1 draw at West Ham and ensuring their safety. Bournemouth sealed a comprehensive 3-1 win over Everton, but it was not enough as they finished in 18th position. Watford’s stay in the Premier League ended as they lost to Arsenal 3-2 despite showing good fight. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hit a first-half
brace either side of Kieran Tierney’s first Arsenal goal. Troy Deeney’s penalty reduced the arrears before the break and former Danny Welbeck pulled another back but Watford finished 19th. Bournemouth, on the other hand, needed to win and hope Aston Villa and Watford both lost but despite the Hornets going down at Arsenal, Villa’s draw at West Ham meant that at no point did Eddie Howe’s side move out of the bottom three. Goals from Josh King and Dominic Solanke either side of Moise Kean’s equaliser and a late one from Junior Stanislas after a Jordan Pickford error ended Everton’s 11-match unbeaten home run.
PREMIER LEAGUE STANDINGS
No. Club 1. Liverpool 2. Man City 3. Man United 4. Chelsea 5. Leicester City 6. Tottenham 7. Wolves 8. Arsenal 9. Sheffield 10. Burnley
Pts 99 81 66 66 62 59 59 56 54 54
No. Club 11. Southampton 12. Everton 13. Newcastle 14. Crystal Palace 15. Brighton 16. West Ham 17. Aston Villa 18. Bournemouth 19. Watford 20. Norwich
Pts 52 49 44 43 41 39 35 34 34 21
Sangakkara backs Ganguly for ICC top post
Kumar Sangakkara
Sourav Ganguly
New Delhi, Jul 26 (PTI): Sri Lanka cricket legend Kumar Sangakkara has backed Sourav Ganguly for the ICC chairman’s post, saying the BCCI president’s “astute cricket brain” and vast experience as an administrator make him a “very suitable” candidate for the role. Sangakkara said the former India captain has an international mindset which is necessary to remain unbiased in an important position. “I think Sourav definitely can make that change. Quite a big fan of Dada not just because of his stature as a cricketer but I think he has a very astute cricket brain,” said Sangakkara.
“He has the best interests of the game at heart... Your mindset should be truly international and not just constrained by partisanship in terms of where I come from.” The former Sri Lanka skipper said Ganguly has the potential to build relationships, which is vital for the influential position in cricket’s governing body. “I have seen his work even before he took over as the BCCI president, even before administration and coaching, and how he has built relationships with players around the world, his standing in the MCC cricket committee,” he added.
Inter Milan beat Genoa 3-0 in Serie A LA Lakers beat Orlando Magic in NBA Inter coach Antonio Conte has complained repeatedly about the difficulties posed by a hectic fixture list and high temperatures, and his side seemed to be feeling the effects with a sluggish second-half performance. Inter defender Andrea Ranocchia set up a Genoa counter-attack with a wayward pass out of defence but made amends by blocking Andrea Favilli as he ran on to Rovella’s through ball.
Yet Inter wrapped the game up in the last 10 minutes. Victor Moses slipped past a defender and his low cross found Sanchez who scored from close range with a shot off the underside of the bar with seven minutes left. In stoppage time, Lukaku collected a pass out of defence, burst forward, cut inside a defender and drove the ball into the far corner for his 23rd league goal of the season.
Napoli defeat Sassuolo 2-0
Inter Milan players celebrate after scoring a goal during their Serie A match against Genoa.
GENOA, Jul 26 (Agencies): Inter Milan put more pressure on stuttering Serie A leaders Juventus when two goals by Romelu Lukaku and one from Alexis Sanchez gave them a 3-0 win at relegation-threatened Genoa on Saturday. Inter, who have two games left, moved above Atalanta into second place
with 76 points, four behind Juventus who host Sampdoria on Sunday. Juve, who have three games to play, will wrap up the title if they beat Sampdoria but they have looked shaky recently with one win in five games. Genoa stayed 17th with 36 points, four clear of the relegation zone although Lecce, who are immediately
below them, have a game in hand away to Bologna on Sunday. Lukaku broke the deadlock when he got free of Cristian Zapata to head in from Cristiano Biraghi’s cross in the 34th minute although Filip Jagiello struck the upright from a free kick shortly afterwards as the Griffins nearly equalised.
Hapless Sassuolo had four goals disallowed for offside, three of them following VAR reviews, in an unlucky 2-0 defeat by Napoli. Elseid Hysaj put Napoli ahead in the eighth minute with a low shot from the edge of the penalty area. Filip Djuricic had the ball in the net for Sassuolo in the 32nd minute but the linesman flagged and it was immediately disallowed for offside. Four minutes later, Djuricic again thought he had scored when he fired in the rebound after
Hamed Junior Traore’s shot was saved by David Ospina. But, after a long VAR review, the goal was disallowed for offside against Traore. Francesco Caputo had a goal chalked off two minutes after the restart, then it was Domenico Berardi’s turn when his effort was ruled out for offside. Matteo Politano hit the post late on for Napoli and Allan rubbed more salt into Sassuolo’s wounds when he swept home the second from the edge of the area in stoppage time.
O r l ando, J u l 2 6 (Agencies): The Los Angeles Lakers rode stellar performances from Kyle Kuzma and LeBron James to notch a 119-112 win over the Orlando Magic. The Lakers established a commanding 35-19 advantage through the first 10 minutes and the Magic were only able to shave three points from their deficit heading into halftime. Orlando made it interesting with a 40-point third quarter, but strong production from the second unit led by Kuzma’s game-high 25 points helped Los Angeles hold on for the victory. Kuzma complemented his aforementioned scoring total with seven rebounds and one assist. James followed with 20 points and added seven assists and two rebounds across 25 minutes. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope went 7-for-8 from the field on his way to 17 points. He also posted three rebounds, two assists and two steals. Dion Waiters poured in 12 points. DJ Augustin paced the Magic with 21 points and also provided five assists and two rebounds. Michael
The NBA match between Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic in progress.
Carter-Williams led the bench with 15 points, supplementing them with eight boards, three assists and one steal. Nikola Vucevic furnished 10 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals. The only negative for the Lakers was the early loss of Anthony Davis, who was inadvertently poked in the eye with 2:09 left in the first quarter and did not return to the game. Davis was
battling with the Magic’s Khem Birch for a rebound when the Magic players swiped him in the face. The Lakers star was having an excellent game with nine points and 10 rebounds in nine minutes. Although the injury did not appear to be serious as Davis re-appeared from the locker room, he was kept out of the remainder of the scrimmage as a precaution.
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