March 26, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXX No. 109

DIMAPUR, THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020 Pages 12 ` 5.00

COVID-19: 21-day lockdown in India begins

Kohli & co handed indoor workout routines

27 dead in Kabul Gurudwara attack

national, Page 7

sports, Page 11

international, Page 9

India may see 1 lakh to 13 lakh COVID19 cases by mid-May, scientists warn

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): India could face between 1 lakh to 13 lakh confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus by midMay if the current trend in the growing number of COVID-19 cases continues, according to a report by an international team of scientists.

The report, compiled

by COV-IND-19 Study Group, an interdisciplinary team of researchers, said while India seems to have done well in controlling the number of confirmed cases compared to other countries like the US and Italy in the early phase of the pandemic, the country is critically missing a key component in this assessment -- the number of truly affected cases.

This factor depends on the extent of testing, the accuracy of the test results, and the frequency and scale of testing of people who may have been exposed but do not show symptoms, the researchers, including Debashree Ray from Johns Hopkins University in the US, said.

Cases in India

553

ACTIVE

LADAKH 13 J&K PUNJAB 29 7 CHANDIGARH 7

DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): In view of the threat of Coronavir us (COVID-19) pandemic, the Konyak Union (KU) Wednesday declared “indefinite emergency” within Mon district.

On sealing of international border, Konyak Union through its media cell said the move should be considered as a “preventive act” that would shield Konyak brothers of Myanmar from Covid-19 pandemic.

The apex body asserted that the present stance was “purely temporary” and therefore “such situation should not be taken otherwise.” Further, restricting social gathering during Aoleang 2020, KU appealed to the citizens to remain in doors and directed respective village councils to implement the order in their villages.

Following the nationwide lockdown, the union has restricted movement indefinitely and said that all routes entering into the district would be actively manned. However, it said that movement of essential commodities, medical emergencies would be exempted. (Cont’d on p-8)

This is it!

“You’re beating him for violating law and soon he’ll become a heatlh emergency.”

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DEATH

MANIPUR 1 MIZORAM 1 WEST BENGAL 9 ODISHA 2 CHATTISGARH 1

DELHI 31 RAJASTHAN 32 GUJARAT 33 MADHYA PRADESH 9

TELANGANA 35 ANDHRA PRADESH 9

MAHARASHTRA 101 KARNATAKA 41 KERALA 109 TAMIL NADU 18

Konyak Union DDADU provides declares ‘indefinite free ambulance emergency’ in Mon service in Dmu

RECOVERED

10

HIMACHAL PRADESH 3 UTTARAKHAND 4 UTTAR PRADESH 35 BIHAR 3

HARYANA 28

“So far, the number of people tested in India has been relatively small. In the absence of widespread testing, it is impossible to quantify the magnitude of ‘community transmission’, in other words, estimate how many are infected outside hospitals and health

43

PONDICHERRY 1

COVID-19 infections starts to accelerate in the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Tuesday a total lockdown for 1.3 billion people in India for 21 days, warning that the nation may go back by 21 years and many families could be devastated if we don’t abide by the lockdown rules.

India, according to the researchers, has the most overstretched healthcare system where it is hard to provide care even when the patient volume flowing into hospitals is “normal”.

Meanwhile, nearly 90 more coronavirus positive cases were reported in India taking the total number of cases to 606 Wednesday while the number of deaths was 10, according to health ministry data. The number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 553 while 43 people have been cured, discharged or migrated. The 606 positive cases includes 43 foreign nationals, the ministry said.

care facilities,” the scientists wrote in the report.

“Thus our current estimates are at best underestimates for India based on early phase data,” they said.

According to the report, it is essential for India to adopt “draconian measures” to MHA issues fresh guidelines on act before the growth of lockdown exemption, see p-7

Mizoram reports first Covid-19 case; second in NE AIZAWL, MAR 25 (AGENCIES): Mizoram has reported its first case of Covid-19 after a 50-year old, who came back from Amsterdam in the Netherlands, tested positive for the infection.

Addressing the media Wednesday, state health minister R Lalthangliana said the government is taking all measures to contain the spread and there was no need for panic. The patient has been kept in isolation at Zoram Medical College, he added. National Health Mission director Dr. Eric Zomawia said the patient was in stable condition.

The man had returned from Amsterdam via DohaDelhi-Guwahati and Aizawl on March 16. He had himself self isolated as soon as he reached home and was in contact with doctors through phone. His sample was taken on March 22 and result was out on March 24.

His wife and two children have also been kept in isolation, officials said This is the second case in the region after a 23-yearold woman, who came back from the UK to Manipur, tested positive.

State designates COVID-19 hospitals Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): State chief secretary Temjen Toy claimed that though Nagaland had no positive COVID-19 case so far, yet the State government was leaving no stone unturned to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.

When contacted, the chief secretary told Nagaland Post that the State government had decided to convert Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) and District Hospital Dimapur (DHD) to “COVID-19 hospitals”, reserved exclusively to treat COVID-19 patients.

In a separate communiqué, Health & Family Welfare principal director Dr. Vizolie Z Suokhrie stated that Dimapur Tourist Lodge had been identified and designated as quarantine centre for Dimapur district, while

Supply of essential items normal: State home department has informed that the situation concerning supply of all the essential commodities and goods including petroleum, oil and lubricants continue to remain normal.

According to an official bulletin, the home department has advised everybody to cooperate and abide by the containment orders issued.

Reminding people to stay indoors and come out only for buying essential goods, the department has asked the people to maintain social distancing even while at shops.

Further, the department informed that only one person from a family should go out for shopping from nearest shops.

Stating that the district administration and police were regularly monitoring the situation, the department cautioned that strict action would be taken against anyone found indulging in non-essential travel. It said that a state control room has also been set up for the same.

Quarantine centres: Dimapur Tourist Lodge and Kohima (places not mentioned).

COVID-19 hospitals to treat cases of severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and Influenza-like Infection (ILI).

DHD had been designated as COVID- 19 hospital.

Dr. Suokhrie said that designated quarantine centres had been identified in Kohima too, while Chedema AYUSH Hospital would be the COVID-19 hospital. He added that NHAK would be converted to COVID-19 hospital, as and when the situa-

tion demanded. He specified that the COVID-19 hospitals would exclusively attend to and treat cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and Influenza-like Infection (ILI).

Pointing out that there was no testing centre in the State due to lack of biosafety level laboratory both in government and private establishments, Suokhrie said samples were collected in all district hospitals and sent in a special Viral Transport Medium (VTM) to the designated lab identified by Government of India.

Meanwhile, Toy informed this reporter that in-patients of both NHAK and DHD would be transferred to private hospitals, while ensuring that the patients were comfortable and receiving the same facilities and treatment.

(Cont’d on p-8)

COVID-19: 5 test negative; results of 3 awaited

H

ealth & Family Welfare principal director Dr Vizolie Z Suokhrie informed that out of eight coronavirus suspected samples sent for testing till date, five had tested negative while reports of three were still awaited. He said as on March 25, 1543 individuals were under surveillance and home-quarantined.

He said the samples were collected from all District Hospitals and sent in a special ‘Viral Transport Medium’ (VTM) to the designated Lab, identified by Government of India. All the district SPs have identified specific vehicles to transfer the samples to the Labs at the earliest. Meanwhile, Dr. Suokhrie appealed to the public not to spread rumours and to verify such news/ information with the concerned district authorities.

Ministers, advisors to take charge of districts DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): State chief minister Neiphiu Rio has assigned ministers/advisors with the districts to monitor implementation of effective measures for prevention and control of COVID 19.

Deputy chief minister Y Patton and advisor Mhathung Yanthan has been assigned to take charge of Wokha district; minister G. Kaito Aye and advisor Khehovi Yepthomi (Zunheboto); minister CM Chang and advisor H Haying (Tuensang); minister Neiba Kronu and advisor Kazheto Kinimi (Phek).

Minister S Pangnyu Phom and advisor Imnatiba (Longleng); minister P Paiwang Konyak and advisor Pohwang (Mon); minister Jacob Zhimomi and advisor Zhaleo Rio (Dimapur); minister Tongpang Ozukum and advisor Neikiesalie Nicky Kire (Kohima); minister Temjen Imna Along and advisor Namri Nchang ( Peren); minister V Kashiho Sangtam and advisor K.Tokugha Sukhalu (Kiphire) and minister Metsubo Jamir and advisor Longrineken (Mokokchung).

Designated COVID-19 hospitals: Chedema AYUSH Hospital, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima and District Hospital Dimapur.

F&CS assures supply of essential items: Food and civil supplies (F&CS) department has said that it was working hard to ensure availability of food grains to NFSA beneficiaries and smooth supply of petroleum products including petrol, diesel and LPG throughout the state.

In an appeal, F&CS director Asangla Imti stated that for smooth flow of essential commodities movement of transports, official, staff and labourers on duty and opening of FPS and its related activities was inevitable.

F&SC director has, therefore, appealed to the responsible authorities and public to cooperate and assist the department in the interest of the public.

NSDMA sets up operation centre: Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) has set up its State emergency operation centre at Keiziekhe Kohima starting March 25, 2020. Citizens could approach the centre for queries, assistance etc or contact number 03702291122/+91 370-2291120, 1070 (toll free).

Fill up CMO Kohima Timings set for shops MAR 25 (NPN): The vacant post: KVC DIMAPUR, deputy commissioner Dimapur has DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): Kohima Village Council (KVC) has urged the state government to immediately fill up the post of chief medical officer (CMO), Kohima that was still lying vacant.

In a letter addressed to DC Kohima, the KVC chairman Dr. Neiphi Kire and secretary Zeneizo Rutsa stated that the consequences of the absence of a CMO in the event of a pandemic of this magnitude could be disastrous.

KVC also urged the government to ensure that in the face of such a deathly virus, the security and safety of the frontline workers be accorded “top priority”.

The council assured to extend support and cooperation to the administration in whatever way possible.

Meanwhile, KVC has lauded the district administration, the department of health and family welfare, the doctors and nurses for their untiring effort as they prepare to fight the menace of Covid-19 pandemic.

directed all shops selling essential commodities under Dimapur town to keep their shops open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. only with immediate effect till further order. In an order, DC has informed the public to do their shopping during the specified period. The order, however, directed pharmacies and medical shops to remain open during normal business hours.

Kohima: DC Kohima Gregory Thejawelie has also ordered grocery and bakeries within Kohima municipal area to remain open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Public have been advised to visit only the nearest grocery shops and bakeries so as to ensure public safety.

Nagaland peaceful on day-1 of national lockdown COVID-19: Zeliang calls for

MOKOKCHUNG, MAR 25 (NPN): In an unfortunate accident, one person was killed and two others suffered fatal injuries when a Maruti van (NL 01 9598) in which they were travelling skidded off the road and fell into a gorge some 350 feet, near IOC, Mokokchung, Wednesday. An FIR has been registered with Police Station II, Mokokchung. (Correspondet)

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): Dimapur District Auto Driver’s Union (DDADU) has decided to provide free ambulance service to patients in need.

Talking to Nagaland Post over phone, DDADU president Tito Yepthomi said that the union had started the initiative on March 24 for hospitals patients who have been finding hard to get public transport during the lockdown. He said that the union has provided the service to ten patients till now. Tito also said that the ambulance was made available for the citizens of Dimapur. People in need of the service could contact DDADU president (91700504157).

DDADU had launched ambulance service to cater to medical emergencies of its members and public at nominal rates.

NEW DELHI/DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN/ PTI): India on Wednesday went into a full 21-day lockdown in a bid to contain the spread of coronavirus amid unprecedented nationwide restrictions that saw anxious people making a beeline for grocery stores and hundreds being detained by police for violating prohibitory orders.

Despite authorities asking people not to step out and assuring that essential supplies will not be affected, people rushed out to stock daily provisions. Many said they have been forced to step out as home deliveries have almost stopped.

Union Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan said the government is monitoring the availability of essential commodities in the market.

Paswan warned manufacturers and traders against profiteering during the lock-

State capital Kohima wears a deserted look as India enters day-one of total lockdown on Wednesday.

down period.

The Centre is also in touch with the state governments to ensure there is no shortage of essential commodities, he said.

In Nagaland, streets wore a deserted look on the first day of the nationwide lockdown. Police personnel were deployed at various junctions in the state capital

and Dimapur to enforce the lockdown. However, barring those who were buying essential commodities, people remained indoors and vehicles were off the roads.

In Dimapur, the indefinite prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC were promulgated effective March 23 from 6 a.m. In some areas, youth volunteers blocked

roads and were monitoring movements. When asked, a volunteer claimed that they were requested by the district administration to assist them to ensure that people remained indoors.

Centre directs states: Amid repor ts of panic purchase of essential commodities, the Union Home Ministry asked state governments to check the spread of rumours about shortage of food items.

In a communication to chief secretaries and DGPs of all states, the ministry asked them to take action to allay apprehensions and maintain peace and tranquillity, and inform people about the availability of food, medicine and other essential commodities.

The ministry said while it was imperative to successfully implement the notified lockdown/restrictions, it

more stringent measures

DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): While lauding the ongoing efforts in curbing the spread of COVID19, leader of opposition (LoP) and senior NPF leader TR Zeliang suggested that the State Government adopt more stringent measures so that lives of citizens were protected at all cost and by all means possible. In a communiqué, he also proposed a serious of measures for consideration of the State government in the interest of the public.

Pointing out that samples for testing for COVID-19 from Nagaland were being sent to a Guwahati-based lab due to absence of a lab in the State, Zeliang demanded immediate attention of the government in this regard and press the Central government with all sincerity and political will for setting up a lab in the State at the earliest.

Alleging that people from the Northeast working or studying in metro cities were being subjected to worst forms of racial attacks in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, he urged chief minister to take up the matter with Prime Minister at the earliest to ensure that Nagas living in these cities were not subjected to such attacks. He also called on the State government to immediately issue notification directing authorities of Nagaland House located across the country to accommodate and take care of Nagas stranded and in distress in such (Cont’d on p-8) cities due to the pandemic.

(Cont’d on p-8)

ART plus centre shifted

DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): In view of the District Hospital Dimapur being designated as COVID-19 Hospital, the chief minister officer (CMO) Dimapur has informed that the Anti-Retroviral Theraphy (ART) plus centre located at DHD has been shifted to old CMO office building with effect from March 25, 2020 for time being.

1 killed in mishap in Mkg

CFD calls for prayer, fasting

DIMAPUR, MAR 25 (NPN): Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD) has called upon all believers to pray and do fasting on March 29 seeking God’s blessings to with stand the Covid-19 pandemic. In a press note, CFD chairman Rev. Moses Murry and secretary Rev. Fr. CP Anto also requested the churches to make a “24×7 chain prayer” in their own respective individual families and pray for God’s intervention, protection and healing from this deadly pandemic situation.

CDF also encouraged members to have special time of individual and family prayer during the monthly prayer fellowship time which was supposed to have held on first Tuesday of April. CFD has made a special request to all members to extend support to the departments that were working tirelessly day in and out.

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state

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

news in Brief ATSU sets up water tanks for Block level federation hand washing at Aboi town launched at Chiephobozou DC Dimapur directs home delivery of LPG: In view of the present situation, deputy commissioner, Dimapur has directed SO (CC) & LPG Sales Dimapur SA to deliver LPG cylinders at home.

F&CS Dimapur informs: Food & Civil Supplies (F&CS), Dimapur has directed all urban/rural FPS under Dimapur district to keep the fair price shops open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m to 3 p.m to issue food grains to maximum of 20 to 30 beneficiaries in a day in order to avoid mass gathering till further order.

Village level organisations with DRDA officials.

DIMAPUR: Nagaland State Livelihoods Mission (NSLM) department of Rural Development (RD) launched block level federation (BLF) Chiephobozou block, Kohima on March 16 at Nerhe Model village council hall.

A press release by the Chiephobozou block, Kohima stated that the programme was conducted under the district project director agency (DRDA) Chiephobozou block, Kohima.

In a keynote address, BDO, Seyiekhrielie Rio, pointed out that the BLF identifies and provides guidance and support on various issues which can-

not be addressed by the village level organization.

Rio said it represented all the poor households and includes the poorest of the poor, adding that BLF facilitate the funds through the bank linkages, convergence, member institutions and other sources.

Assistant district programme manager (ADPM) Kohima, Keneivole Mejura, highlighted the importance of BLF. Mejura said it was designed to serve as a platform for larger collective action required for the promotion of livelihoods, monthly meetings, identifies various training needs of community members and staff and implements

such activities and social development of the households. Assistant labour commissioner, Kewekote highlighted on various social security schemes and said that all the village level organizations must register under the labour department in order to avail the benefits that are being provided through the scheme.

The block programme manager (BPM), Chiephobozou block, Loyieneinu Mercy Rhetso highlighted on the various block status under Chiephobozou block. Altogether, 21 village level organizations under Chiephobozou block participated in the programme.

Social work conducted at GHSS Singrijan

Staff members, village council and volunteers preparing to put bamboo fencing around GHSS Singrijan.

DIMAPUR: A social work under the initiative of the principal, school staff and the Singrijan/Khopanala village council was undertaken on March 18, at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Singrijan.

A press release from GHSS Singrijan principal, P. Aienla Longkumer stated that, Singrijan and Khopanala village council had donated bamboos and with the help of the school

teaching, non- teaching staff and volunteers from the village community, constructed a temporary bamboo fencing on the boundary of the school campus.

Principal thanked the head GB Tezu Pradhan who is also member of school management development board and Singrijan/ Khopanala village council for helping the school take up a noble cause. She further expressed

hope that this initiative for the school would go a long way in the development and upliftment of the school.

She also appealed to the department concerned to lend a helping hand for the school to take up such initiatives in the days to come.

It may be mentioned that since its inception in 1969, no initiative or work has been undertaken in the past for demarcating the school boundary.

BSI informs: Bible Society of India (BSI) has informed all auxiliary committee members and officials of the branches and well wishers of BSI, Dimapur auxiliary that workshop and thanksgiving service, scheduled from April 14 to 15 has been indefinitely suspended due to the outbreak of COVID-19 and national lockdown till April 14. BSI has informed that dates will be rescheduled when the situation becomes normal.

ARK Foundation postpones workshop: ARK Foundation has informed that the state level workshop on viral hepatitis C, scheduled to be held on March 31 has been postponed until further notice. All the outstation participants from the 8 invited districts including Kohima are to take note of the same. Workshop will be conducted on a later date as per the directives received from the govt and the status of the Covid-19 situation.

Lost and found: NSCN/GPRN, Lotha region authority has recovered a stolen Bajaj Pulsar bike bearing Engine No-DKZCFG58287 and Chassis No-MD2A13EZ4FCG21210. The rightful owner is informed to claim the said vehicle by producing the original documents in the office of the central administrative officer, Lotha region within seven days.

One may contact these numbers for more information 9612638653/9612198930.

Orientation programme held for PGC faculty

DIMAPUR: Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Peren Government College (PGC), organized a oneday faculty orientation programme on the application of IT tools in educational institutions under faculty development programme on March 7 in the college.

A press release from PGC media cell convener stated that, assistant professor Hulin was the resource person, who enlightened the participants on the use of ICT in teaching and learning process. Practical session on using smartboard in classroom teaching and cloud computing were also imparted. Earlier, programme was chaired by Dr. Changneu Ndang, HoD of Education and Igong N. Ipuing, asst. prof. and IQAC coordinator exhorted the participants.

ATSU members along with the water tanks for sanitizing hands for public of Aboi town.

DIMAPUR: Aboi Town Students’ Union (ATSU) as precautionary measures to combat COVID-19 has started setting up gallons of water and hand sanitizers at every junction and important areas in Aboi town.

A press release from ATSU media cell stated that, despite the lock down for 21 days, the students’ union was keen to educate the town with sanitizing “just wash hands”. The gallons and sanitizers were contributed by the officials

Farmers with SASRD, NU officials at the programme.

DIMAPUR: AICRP (VC) vegetable crops, Nagaland centre, SASRD, NU under TSP (tribal sub plan) conducted a programme where vegetable seeds for kitchen garden were distributed to interested farmers at New Socunoma, Zhuikhu and Hekheshe

DIMAPUR: With a purpose to inculcate a spirit of inquiry, research and critical thinking among undergraduate and post-graduate students, department of Political Science, Tetso College organised its 2nd round table conference on the theme, “emerging issues in Indian politics post 2014 general election” on March 13 at college auditorium. A press release by the college stated that, fivestudent presenters from different academic departments of the college took part in the conference chaired by Dr. P. Kapesa. Keynote address was delivered by head of the department, Dr. Rimmei Longmei, welcome note by coordinator of the conference, Dr. Sabur Ali M, special address delivered by principal, Tetso College, professor (Dr). P.S. Lorin and word of thanks and concluding remarks were given by Dr. Aniruddha Babar.

NVCO on backdoor appointment

Mission board of Mokokchung Town Baptist Church (MTBA) distributed hand sanitizers to various organizations and groups, made by Fazl Ali College and sponsored by MTBA on March 25. Sanitizers were distributed to Mokokchung Truck Drivers Union, staff of Mokokchung Municipal Council, MPC, IMDH, TB Hospital, Lenjem Hospital, ART Center, Woodland Nursing Home, ABAM Impur, SBI main branch and SBI regional office, Treasury office and fuel refill stations. The team was led by Rev. Ponen Longchar, pastor of MTBA, with representatives of the Mokokchung Press Club. (MTBA)

Signal Angami Village United (SAVU) village level organisation (VLO) distributed essential food items on March 25 at VLO office in SAVU. SHG members led by its president along with the GB distributed food items to 15 families and individuals of unorganized sector residing within its jurisdiction. (SAVU) K Y M C

did not wait for the government to act or provide despite the poor condition of hospital but taken every possible measures to fight COVID-19.

In regard to the recent travel history of passengers list which went viral in social media, ATSU has informed that passenger (Aboi) in the list is quarantined too. ATSU further requested the ward task force members to take care of the hand washing unit installed in their respective wards.

AICRP (VC) SASRD distributes vegetable seeds

villages on March 12.

A press release from AICRP-VC, SASRD, NU stated that the main objective of kitchen gardening was to produce fresh and nutritious vegetables for a family throughout the year and better utilisation of the surrounding land and

kitchen water.

Looking at the consumption and production rate of vegetables in Nagaland and their importance in nutritional and livelihood security, prof.

Akali Sema, in-charge, TSP (vegetable) and scientists, AICRP (VC), de-

partment of Horticulture, SASRD, NU felt the need to encourage kitchen gardening among tribal farmers of Nagaland.

Farmers were also informed that the best performing kitchen gardeners would be promoted with various items related to kitchen garden. Altogether about 280 farmers attended the programme and kitchen garden kits which contained seeds of 10 different vegetable crops were distributed.

Meanwhile, villagers expressed gratitude to AICRP (VC), SASRD NU for initiating the programme for their village and assured full cooperation for success of the programme. Earlier, programme was coordinated by Dr. Waluniba, Dr. Aastik Jha, Dr. Moakala Changkiri and Yongkongtula.

DC Kohima informs

Tetso College round table conference

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Voluntary Consumers’ Organisation (NVCO) has termed backdoor appointment as a clear case of corruption in Nagaland, alleging the authority/officers/politicians with abuse of power and nepotism where they give jobs from public offices to relatives, family members, own community and constituency people without any advertisement and no selection process.

A press release from NVCO press and media cell conveyed its sincere appreciation to Naga Tribal Union Chumoukedima Town (NTUCT) for their timely fight against the 994 backdoor appointments in police department. NVCO also extended its fullest support to NTUCT in every possible manner.

President of NVCO Kezhokhoto Savi, advocate said that the 994 appointments was a clear case of backdoor appointment as they were made without any advertisement and it also infringes the fundamental

to educate town about precautionary measures.

ATSU has also informed all the citizens to follow orders as advised by WHO, MoHFW GoI and H&FW Nagaland to stay safe and help fight back against COVID-19. ATSU also stated that, those people who have come back from other states/country were asked to quarantine themselves at their farms or fields.

ATSU stated that there were about 10 persons quarantined and they

Dimapur: Gregory Thejawelie, deputy commissioner Kohima, Nagaland has informed that in the interest of the general public and as a precautionary measure to encourage social distancing due to Covid-19 pandemic crisis and to further sensitize public and staff, of the petrol and diesel outlets, a roster arrangement of the various petrol and diesel outlets, within Kohima Municipal Area is hereby prepared on specified dates as listed below for strict adherence.

SL. NO

Dates

1

26/03/2020

2

27/03/2020

3

28/03/2020

4

29/03/2020

Petrol/Diesel Outlets Theja Agency Krubi Enterprise SKV Enterprises JT Filling Station Sekhose Service Station Avilie Service Station Krubi Enterprise KLK Theja Agency JT Filling Station SKV Enterprises Sekhose Service Station Avilie Service Station Krubi Enterprise KLK Theja Agency JT Filling Station SKV Enterprises Sekhose Service Station KLK Avilie Service Station Krubi Enterprise SKV Enterprises Theja Agency JT Filling Station Sekhose Service Station Krubi Enterprise KLK Avilie Service Station Theja Agency SKV Enterprises Sekhose Service Station JT Filling Station KLK Avilie Service Station Krubi Enterprise Theja Agency SKV Enterprises Sekhose Service Station Krubi Enterprise

Locations

Contact No.

Sanuoru Bridge Mohonkhola Below Raj Bhavan New Market High School Paramedical Mohonkhola NH 29 Sanuoru Bridge New Market Below Raj Bhavan High School Paramedical Mohonkhola NH 29 Sanuoru Bridge New Market Below Raj Bhavan High School NH 29 Paramedical Mohonkhola Below Raj Bhavan Sanuoru Bridge New Market High School Mohonkhola NH 29 Paramedical Sanuoru Bridge Below Raj Bhavan High School New Market NH 29 Paramedical Mohonkhola Sanuoru Bridge Below Raj Bhavan High School Mohonkhola

8732096462 8837436983 8794195082 7005224565 8787408697 8787333450 8837436983 9436210068 8732096462 7005224565 8794195082 8787408697 8787333450 8837436983 9436210068 8732096462 7005224565 8794195082 8787408697 9436210068 8787333450 8837436983 8794195082 8732096462 7005224565 8787408697 8837436983 9436210068 8787333450 8732096462 8794195082 8787408697 7005224565 9436210068 8787333450 8837436983 8732096462 8794195082 8787408697 8837436983

rights of other eligible can5 30/03/2020 didates which is amounting to infringement of Article 6 31/03/2020 14 & 16 of the Indian Constitution.

7 1/04/2020 NVCO ter med the clarification of director 8 2/04/2020 general of Police T John Longkumer as “very unfor9 3/04/2020 tunate” where he categorically clarified that none of the constable appointments 10 4/04/2020 made in the department are backdoor appointments. 11 5/04/2020 However the NVCO has demanded that the alleged 12 6/04/2020 994 appointments have to be immediately cancelled for 13 7/04/2020 the interest of justice and it cannot be compromised in 14 8/04/2020 any manner.

NVCO stated that the 15 9/04/2020 fight against backdoor appointment was simply con- 16 10/04/2020 tributing towards building a bright future for the young 17 11/04/2020 educated and eligible candidates for any recruitment 18 12/04/2020 from public offices. It is also the fight against all those employed who have been 19 13/04/2020 appointed/recruited in various departments bypassing 20 14/04/2020 the constitutional scheme of This order will come into force with immediate effect and any changes in the public employment. roster will be intimated accordingly.

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State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

Appeals, directives and information on COVID-19

DIMAPUR: Government agencies, civil societies and NGOs have been giving out various advisories, directives and appeals for safety of public and precautionary measures against the pandemic COVID-19. More advisories and appeals are being made to public to stay indoors and to comply with the lockdown order from the government to contain COVID–19 pandemic.

DC Dimapur: As a preventive measure to contain COVID-19, the Rotary Club Dimapur (RCD) exhibited their humanitarian gesture by providing masks and washing soaps to all the needy people in and around Dimapur. According to DIPR report, RCD distributed 10000 masks and 10000 washing soaps covering 10 colonies. The GBs of West Yard Colony, Cheswari Colony, Rail bazaar, Netaji Colony, Namgalong, Veterinary, Miu, United North Block B, Naga Colony and Haralu colonies were handed over 500 to 600 masks and soaps.

On behalf of Rotary Club Dimapur, DC Dimapur Anoop Kinchi also handed over masks and soaps to IRB Mahila Battalion and some needy people. President RCD, Ashok Agarwal informed that they will also be providing the hygiene aids to Civil Hospital, commissioner of Police Dimapur, district administration and media.

Directives to exempted shops in Dimapur: Meanwhile, Dimapur DC has issued precautionary measures for compliance by exempted shops and business establishments viz pharmacies, fair price shops, grocery stores, and vegetable vendors as follows: All shopkeepers to wear face mask mandatorily and maintain distance from the public; All shopkeepers to keep hand sanitizers or provide facilities for hand wash for their own and for public use; Shops should be cleaned and sanitized; All customers to maintain a distance of one meter from each other. The shop keepers to make provisions for maintaining the distance; As far as possible only one member from a family may go out from their

home to buy the essential commodities; All those who are going out should wear masks; People should not sit/stand in groups outside the shops. Action would be initiated against the defaulting individuals/groups under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.

DC also requested the public to mandatorily stay at home during the lock down from March 25 to April 12 and to avoid all manner of public gatherings including family outings, picnics and other leisure activities.

DC warned that violators would be punished as per Section 188 of Indian Penal Code.

SKKD: In view of several cases of racial discrimination against northeast people, Sümi Kiphimi Küqhakulu Delhi (SKKD) has asked all Sumis in Delhi to be in touch with the union and elders and not to make unnecessary movements. SKKD has advised not to immediately react to discriminatory acts but to note done the vehicle number, get a picture/video of the person and report it to the nearest police station/call Special Police Unit Northeast Region (SPUNER). Contact details of SPUNER: helpline 1093 (toll free), duty officer (01120861720), Whatsapp (8750870582), e-mail: opnodalofficer4ne@gmail.com and address – Police Complex, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi. SKKD contacts details: 9354325579 and 962500728 (whatsapp).

DMC appeals: Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) administrator Albert Ezung has appealed to all the colony council chairmen and GBs under its jurisdiction to extend all possible support and coordinate with the authorities in the wake the present situation.

He further requested all concerned to contact the Medical department for any queries related to COVID-19 at the control room CMO office Dimapur 7630877991/7630877983.

F&CS department Dimapur: Department of F&CS Dimapur has appealed to all concerned that the department was working seriously to ensure availability of food grains to NFSA beneficianagalandpost.com Poll ries and smooth supply of petroleum products such Q . : W i l l c u r f e w b e as petrol, diesel & LPG effective in containing throughout the state in cornavirus spread? this critical junction. A press release from F&CS 100% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 90% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dimapur director, Asangla 80% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Imti stated that, in doing 70% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– so, movement of trans60% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ports and officials/staff/ 50% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– labors on duty and open40% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ing of FPS and its related 30% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– activities was inevitable for 20% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– smooth flow of essential 10% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– commodities for the ben0% efit of the public.

A B C In this regard, all con75% A Yes. cerned authorities and 25% B No. public are earnestly re0% C Can’t Say. quested to cooperate and assist the department in Next poll the interest of the public.

Q: Besides lockdown are KVC: Kohima Vilmedical equipments lage Council (KVC) held a more important to fight meeting on March 24 and COVID 19? brought out resolutions  Yes. which come into imme No. diate effect for the health safety of public against  Can’t Say. COVID-19. A press release from KVC chairman, Dr. WEATHER FORECAST Neiphi Kire and secretary, Zeneizo Rutsa stated that March 26 defaulters are deemed to be stringently dealt with. The (Temperature in ºC) Max Min resolutions are: Students, Agartala Hazy sunshine and hot 36 20 business people/anyone Aizawl Hazy sun 29 13 coming home from outside Guwahati Hazy sunshine 32 18 the state must confine Imphal Hazy sunshine 30 12 themselves to compulsory Itanagar A thunderstorm in spots 28 17 quarantine for 14 days (as Shillong A couple of afternoon showers 20 10 per laid down rules); EnKohima Hazy sun, a t-storm in spots 23 12 try of visitors to Kohima Dimapur Hazy sunshine 32 18 village shall be banned; Mkg 25 12 A thunderstorm in spots All taxis (regional, local, Tuensang A thunderstorm in spots 15 9 KVYO)/vehicles, other Wokha Not as warm with hazy sun 24 16 than those belonging to Zunheboto A morning shower; hazy sun 21 10 Kohima village, shall not K Y M C

DC Dimapur Anoop Kinchi handing over masks and soaps to IRB Mahila Battalion on behalf of RCD along with club members on March 25 (DIPR)

be allowed to cross the village; No gathering of people will be allowed.

Movement of public will be restricted and people must stay at home; All business establishments except groceries and pharmacies will be closed. All booze joints will be closed; Hand washing facilities will be arranged at suitable locations; Government orders and directives must be strictly adhered.

GBUD: GB Union Dimapur (GBUD) has suspended Wednesday weekly bazaar at Supermarket Dimapur till further notice in keeping with the government order.

A press release from GBUD president M Y Ngullie and vice-president W Kholie Kapfo stated that, as per the information from the district administration GBs/chairmen are requested to initiate house-to-house delivery of vegetables/essential commodities for the general public in their respective colony areas.

In a separate order the district administration had informed the GBs to comply to the notice as precautionary measures to be monitored strictly: GBs along with the colony council to manage monitoring system of mandatory home quarantine which is the need of the hour; To check and restrict movement of public loitering around endangering their own life and the lives of people especially those people coming from outside within their respective colony jurisdiction; To suspend all public gatherings; To immediately arrange a suitable designated separate place as quarantine zone; To be in touch with the local health workers in case of any exigencies, Dimapur district control room 7630877991/7630877983; All GBs within Sadar area have been requested to follow the guidelines and cooperate with the district administration/law enforcing agencies to contain the spread of the virus.

ANCA: All Nagaland Counsellors Association (ANCA) has informed that during this critical time it would be providing telephonic counselling to any person/s who require emotional and therapeutic support.

A press release from ANCA stated that, anyone wanting to avail the services can call any of the executives from 6 a.m to 9 p.m who will redirect the call to a professional.

No calls other than the purpose of professional counselling will be entertained.

Public are not to misuse the services provided at this critical situation.

Counselling services will be available till April 16 as per the government of Nagaland’s lockdown order. The call executives a r e : Vi k e t o Z h i m o m i 7005575202; Rokovituo Yhoshu 8974999040;

Visenuo Rupreo 9366740561. All counselling psychologists are well trained and qualified, and will follow the professional counselling protocol maintaining confidentiality and genuineness.

NVCO & KDTODU: N a g a l a n d Vo l u n t a r y Consumers’ Organisation (NVCO) and Kohima District Truck Owners & Drivers’ Union (KDTODU) has requested the business community not to charge more while selling essential commodities.

A press release from NVCO president, Kezhokhoto Savi and KDTODU president Rüvese Sokha also appealed the state government to supply necessary equipments to the healthcare sector to protect them from infection while rendering their services to the citizens in the state.

The release stated that KDTODU had received some complaints from the consumers that several shops were charging more while selling essential commodities in the name of transportation charges, whereby the KDTODU clarified that as a transport service community it has not raised or hiked their transportation charges in any manner.

KDTODU asked all vehicles including trucks not to pay cash at the check-gates maintained by Nagaland Police and on any highways in honour of the state government standing order banning the same. KDTODU and NVCO have asked the business community not to charge more on any essential commodities.

NVCO & KDTODU also conveyed that certain equipments to protect the healthcare sector from infection is still lacking in government hospitals, out of which the most vulnerable hospitals are Dimapur Civil Hospital, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima(NHK), Mon Civil Hospital and so on. NVCO & KDTODU therefore sincerely appealed the state government especially the chief minister and medical minister to immediately supply required equipments to the healthcare sector before it is too late.

UVC resolves: Unity Village Council (UVC) held an emergency combined meeting with the GBs, women organization, youth organization and communities’ leaders on March 25.

A press release issued by UVC chairman Talitemsü Tzüdir and secretary Kohito Assumi stated that during the meeting the house passed some resolutions: Total restriction on entry of outsiders within the village jurisdiction; Price of essential commodities and daily use items shall be sold as per MRP; Advised all villagers to maintain and follow the decorum along with the instruction and precaution given by the government.

UVC further informed that violators will be punished accordingly.

AGEI Wokha: Assemblies of God east India (AGEI) Wokha section has informed the churches under its jurisdiction to continually suspend regular church services and all masses until further notice.

A press release from Rev. Zuchamo Shitiri, presbyter, directed church doors to remain open for believers desiring to offer prayers; However, while praying and meditating inside the church, believers have been advised to practice social distancing; Church bell can be rung at usual service timing to remind believers to pray at home; AG churches have been requested to organise prayer chains and pray for Nagas as well as India and the world while directing churches not to conduct general or church board meetings and to avoid any ordinances (mass).

ASU: Angami Students’ Union (ASU) has urged upon the citizens of the state to cooperate and heed to the government directives and stay indoors.

A press release from ASU president Vizokho Zashümo and general secretary, Petekhrietuo Kiewhuo stated that, although the state of Nagaland is not privileged (as of yet) with advanced testing kits and labs to ascertain the affect of the COVID-19, the medical measures being taken about by the state government and its agencies, various NGOs and individuals have contributed much to the benefit of the citizens.

ASU also pointed out its serious concern for the academic schedule of the students and also advised them to benefit through these holidays as study break and not lose track of their academic studies.

Students are expected to educate their near and dear ones about the prevailing situation, stated the release. ASU also appealed the government that during such a prevailing situation, the police personnel and medical teams should be well equipped with all the preventive medical kits by prioritizing their medical welfare.

It also stated that public announcements using PA systems and loud speakers in towns, colonies and rural areas in English, Nagamese and local dialects would also facilitate better understanding about the pandemic.

Stating that continuous flow of para military forces to rural areas has also raised fears as the COVID-19 is easily transmittable, the ASU asked that para military forces also be brought under the lockdown. Further, ASU has beseeched prayer warriors to continue seeking for God’s grace and mercy during these difficult times.

Union also appealed the students’ fraternity and educated minds to refrain from spreading/believing hoax messages.

DAYO: While expressing deepest appreciation to the government of Nagaland, the medical fraternity and everyone associated with attempts to control and contain the dreaded Covid-19 pandemic, the Dimapur Ao Youth Organization (DAYO) has urged the government to introduce testing laboratory for COVID-19 immediately. A press release from DAYO president Aotemsu Aier and general secretary, S. Pangertoshi stated that, the state which is almost 60 years old does not even have a testing laboratory for the same.

DAYO also stated that it was unfortunate that frontline workers against the pandemic or any testing laboratory were available within the state, as all suspected samples are sent outside.

DC Tuensang: Deputy commissioner Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant convened a meeting with churches, tribal bodies and student bodies on March 24 at the DC’s conference hall.

DC briefed the house on the “lock down” and requested the house to spread awareness on unconfirmed/fake news/ rumour mongering. All such messages should be confirmed from the authority concerned, he said.

He also stated that every flu, which is common in this season, should not be mistaken as COVID-19 related. However abundant precautions should be taken. Executive secretary, CBLT, requested the district administration to come up with modalities to contain the situation. Pastor, Police Church stated that the church has suspended its jubilee celebrations on account of the situation. DC also highlighted on the ban of spitting in public places and institutions as a measure to avoid the spread of Corona Virus and violators will be punished according to law.

He also requested the various bodies to spread awareness through posters, audio messages etc preferably in local dialects for maximum penetration of awareness among the people.

Tuensang DTF: Tuensang district task force (DTF) for COVID-19 held a meeting at DC conference hall Tuensang on March 25 under the chairmanship of chairman TDTF and DC, Kumar Ramnikant.

The forum discussed on establishing one central helpline for the district and volunteers to be nominated to distribute the basic commodities for the needy section of the people of the town; The president All Ward Union are to submit the detailed list of those legible for the service; Forum also decided to establish one medical team on wheels to meet the basic health issue of the general public of Tuensang town.

The team will provide the home service of the patient on call for which Dr. Wapang along with two nurses were nominated.

DC also announced that there will be no shortage of basic commodities in the district.

For opening of the shops dealing with basic commodities time line has been set between 8 a.m to 2 p.m. District administration along with Police and Medical departments also resolved to supply free mask for small shop keepers and vegetable vendors and small business dealers.

TDTF for COVID-19 also

announced complete shutdown of private vehicles.

One time thoroughfare for vehicles carrying food items and basic commodities to villages will be allowed, DC said. House also resolved to construct one seal for those who are under home quarantine which are to be sealed on a patient’s right hand for the recognition of his/her status.

ADC Tening: Additional deputy commissioner, Rhosietho Nguori had issued notification in the interest of public health and safety: All shops and business establishment, except pharmacies, petrol pumps, and grocery shops selling food grains, food items, vegetables, daily use items, other essential commodities and media offices shall remain closed till further orders. Reiterating earlier order issued by this office, all sorts of hunting activities involving human contact with wild animals and birds stands banned till further notice; All commercial passenger vehicles both public and private, like buses, taxis (Sumo and pick-up trucks modified for passengers), etc shall not ply till further orders; Movement of all public is restricted except those coming out of their homes for procurement and distribution of essential commodities, availing essential services, medical facilities and other basic needs; All inter-state entry and exit point are hereby sealed except for the movements of essential commodities, security forces, medical equipments and supplies, and goods vehicle transiting the state shall be subject to medical screening as per laid down protocols; All government offices, both central and state except district administration, police, security forces, fire and emergency services, home department, medical, medical, postal services, NIC, NSDMA, Power, PHED, Food and Civil Supplies, Finance, Treasury and Accounts, banks/ ATM, AIR, Doordashan shall remain closed. However, the concerned head of sub-divisional offices shall form a core group of officers/staff to attend urgent and essential matters. All other government employees should be available on call.

ADC Peren/Jalukie: Business section of Peren town are directed to keep their shops open from 8 a.m to 12 noon only. The shops will remain closed the rest of the time. General public are informed to do their shopping at the time period as mentioned above.

ADC Jalukie, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang has issued the following order: Closure of all shops and business establishments except pharmacies, petrol pumps and grocery shops selling food grains, food items and other essential commodities; Restricting movement of all commercial and passenger vehicles both public and private; Movement of all public is restricted except those coming out of their homes for procurement and distribution of essential commodities, availing essential services and medical facilities. In view of the seriousness of the issues and to monitor the equal distribution of essential commodities to the general public, the following timing is made so that the unnecessary movement of public is checked; Petrol pumps from 6 a.m to 2 p.m; Shops selling essential commodities from 8 a.m to 10 a.m.

PTCSU: Phek Town Chakhesang Students’

Union (PTCSU) appealed the general public and citizens of Phek town to co-operate and follow the directives given by the government. In a release the PTCSU press secretary Diezekho Vadeo and president P Surhoveyi Khesoh urged the public not to panic in buying essential commodities as there were sufficient stocks in the market. The union also asked the shopkeepers not to sell goods beyond MRP, if found the concern authority will take strict action upon them.

Union also appealed the concern authority to set time basis to open their shops/market as to strictly maintain the unnecessary movement of public.

T h o s e e m e r ge n c y travellers coming from outside the district or state would not be allowed entry without proper verification from medical department/ concern authority. Union also cautioned the social media users not to disseminate any fake news or information unless it is verified by department of Health and Family Welfare, state government or newspaper.

SAPO: Southern Angami Public Organization (SAPO) has appealed to its citizens to adhere to the directive of the state government and requested all village council authority to strictly follow the instructions issued by state government to protect its citizens from Coronavirus (COVID-19). SAPO has also appealed all churches and prayer centres of Southern Angami areas to uphold in prayer. In case of any eventuality or a person suspected of suffering from COVID-19, SAPO said report must be immediately submitted to the concern authority for urgent action. Failing which, SAPO said the concern village authority /victim’s family shall be held liable and responsible.

SAPO has also asked the state government to immediately send experts, technical and medical team to Khuzama check gate, Kidima Prayer Park for assisting and checking the entry of VIPs and ambulance service movement, whether they are having proper medical certificate or permission to travel en route.

DBALT condemns: Diphupar ‘B’ Ao Lanur Telongjem (DBALT) has vehemently condemned the false and fabricated message of its member, Imtisunep being infected with COVID-19, which went viral on different social media platform.

DBALT terming the viral message as false says it does not hold water whatsoever and appealed everyone to desist and refrain from spreading such unfounded and unverified messages without ascertaining the truth.

IRHC: Indian Human Rights commission (IRHC) has appealed the Nagaland state government to make special provisions in the state budget and pool in funds from the CM and governor’s emergency fund, state disaster, apply for central assistance to pay or help out the daily wage workers, etc.

A press release from IRHC for state of Nagaland chairman, S. Richard Humtsoe stated that, gover nment must also come out with some concrete policies and arrangements for the old age, widows, handicapped, sick people in hospital, invalid and the blind.

IHRC further requested the government to immediately make available ICUs and ventilators in all the district hospitals at the earliest.

K Y M C

northeast

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

Lockdown continues in NE; police act tough

‘80 blood samples tested negative for COVID-19 in M’laya’

Correspondent

Shillong, Mar 25: Not less than 80 blood samples have tested negative for COVID-19 in Meghalaya, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said on Wednesday.

Voicing disappointment over some people not adhering to the government’s advisories and lockdown to curb the Corona virus, Tynsong warned of stringent action against people for violating the lockdown.

“By the grace of Almighty, till this moment, not even a single case detected in Meghalaya but the government is not complacent and the fight is on to prevent COVID-19. Therefore, I request citizens to cooperate,” he told journalists after an emergent cabinet meeting at the Chief Minister’s residence. Informing that more than 3000 returnees to the State have registered with the government, Tynsong said that health workers/ volunteers now are in touch with the returnees on a daily basis inquiring about their health condition.

He said the government has designated three centres – North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Homoeopathy at Mawdiangdiang, the Tuberculosis hospital atUmsawli and the Cancer Wing at Shillong Civil Hospital– to treat the affected patients.

He also informed that the government has decided to procure 30 life-saving saving ventilators.

Chief Secretary M.S.Rao and Commissioner and secretary for health and family welfare, Sampath Kumar also held a meeting with all private hospitals in Shillong and chalked out strategies to contain if there is an outbreak of COVID19 in the State.

Voicing disappointment over some people not adhering to the government’s advisories and violating the lockdown, Tynsong said, “I came to know few groups of people today (Wednesday) went for picnic which is totally wrong. People should understand that the COVID19 pandemic is affecting the whole world,” he said.

“Not a single case has been detected in Meghalaya but that doesn’t mean we should be complacent.

Yesterday, one person tested positive in Manipur and another one in Mizoram.

Therefore, I appeal to the citizens to stay home for everyone’s safety in Meghalaya,” he said. Warning stringent action against violators, the Deputy Chief Minister said, “We have already clamped a three-day curfew from last night. We need to be more stringent. If they (violators) don’t listen, respect and understand, the law will take its own course.”

and during the lockdown period, the prices of various essentials, vegetables, meat, rice, and other commodities including soaps and disinfectants are soaring up.

Availability of transport fuel becomes scarce. People are facing a tough time to collect their essentials in view of the closures of public transport and various other government restrictions.

In Assam, a large number of people came out on roads in Kamrup, Nalbari, Karimganj and Nagaon districts violating prohibitory orders amid the lockdown.

Security forces resorted to

M’laya CM appeals to citizens to donate to COVID-19 relief fund Correspondent

Shillong, Mar 25: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Wednesday appealed to citizens to donate to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for COVID-19 to deal with the crisis due to the corona virus outbreak.

Till date, not a single case of COVID-19 has been detected in Meghalaya.

“With the rampant outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country and number of lives being affected by the virus , we appeal for donation,” Sangma said.

The CM said the State government is stepping up by providing the necessary aid, but in this time of crisis, and appealed to responsible citizens to do their bit.

Meanwhile, the Marwari community of Shillong has formed a committee of all Marwari owned fair price shops and is in consultation with the Deputy Commissioner Supply, Shillong and other arms of the government to provide free rations to the poor.

On the other hand, the state government has constituted an advisory committee comprising of medical experts to seek suggestions from the latter on how to handle the situation arising out of the COVID19 outbreak. Rao said the

After panic buying, people of Assam ensure total lockdown Guwahati, Mar 25 (PTI): Markets, offices and even gas agencies were closed and roads were empty across Assam on Wednesday, the first day of the nationwide lockdown imposed to check the spread of novel coronavirus, as people remained indoors after resorting to panic buying in the past two days.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Tuesday evening announced a 21day nationwide lockdown to contain the coronavirus outbreak. Officials described the situation as “peaceful” and said that no untoward incident has been reported in the state so far.

Only a few vehicles engaged in emergency duties were seen plying the roads of the towns and cities.

A few grocery shops opened early in the morning but their owners too downed the shutters of their establishments later in the day due to lack of customers.

The supply of milk by

private vendors was disrupted in many urban and semi-urban areas of the state, officials said.

Tempos providing water to areas not connected with municipal supply were seen continuing providing their services, they said.

Banks and ATMs remained open but there were hardly any customers, bank officials said.

Vendors in Guwahati have decided not to distribute newspapers till March 31 due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Areas of usually bustling Guwahati, the commercial hub of Assam and the Northeast, wore a deserted look with only the district administration office, treasury and banks remaining operation with a skeletal staff, they said.

People resorted to panic buying across the state since Monday after Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced an eight-day lockdown in the state, which was later increased to three

weeks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, even as the Assam minister assured that grocery items, LPG gas cylinders and medicines would be available during the period.

Markets had witnessed a huge rush of buyers on Tuesday. Vegetables, fishes, meat and eggs were sold at double the normal price.

With Assam being dependent on the supply of rice, pulses, fish and eggs from outside the state, people had restored to stocking goods for at least 10 days.

The budget session of the Assam Assembly had taken place on Tuesday and Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, his cabinet colleagues and legislators were allowed inside the premises after thermal screening, officials said.

The number of journalists allowed from each media organisation to cover Assembly proceedings was curtailed to ensure social distancing, they said.

government has taken all necessary measures to tackle COVID-19 and various defence establishments have offered their help to the government.

Conrad appeals to citizens to act responsibly

Conrad Sangma appealed to the citizens to act responsibly following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of 21 days lockdown in the country.

“We should take utmost care of ourselves and our family members, so that we do not come in contact with the virus and are able to break the transmission chain,” Sangma said in his address to the citizens via Facebook live.

He informed that fresh notification with regards to lockdown will be issued by the State Government.

Sangma also informed that more than 3000 people have registered through online platform (meghalayaonline.gov.in/covid) of their travel history and the government is closely monitoring the situation.

“It is a difficult situation for everybody and if people are united with the government, the goal to defeat coronavirus will be a reality,” the Chief Minister said.

“The government is working out on logistics

particularly on rations and people should not panic.

We will ensure that essential supplies are made available to the people,” he informed.

Stressing that all steps are being taken to ensure supply of essential commodities to all, particularly the weaker section of the society, Sangma informed that government is in consultation with business houses and entrepreneurs to start home delivery of essential items.

“Nobody had thought such a situation will arise.

However, this has happened.

Necessity is the mother of all inventions. Let us be positive and work together to overcome this situation.

I am sure that we will be together in this battle and unite to keep the virus at bay and break the transmission chain,” the Chief Minister reiterated.

Re peatedly urging people to take the matter seriously and stay indoors, Sangma informed the citizens that the government is taking all measures to fight coronavirus and different isolation wards are being designated in hospitals across the State. He also thanked the selfless services of the health care and paramedical personnels, municipality and others, working in this situation.

Correspondent IMPHAL, Mar 25: Of the20 individuals who have been quarantined at the government designated facility in Imphal on Wednesday, at least 12 persons boarded the same flight with the COVID-19 infected patient reported from Manipur.

Among the 12, seven turned up for testing for COVID-19 at JNIMS hospital today, while five of them were picked from their respective homes in Bishnupur district by the medical staffs and today morning.

The seven individuals have been quarantined at a designated government facility for necessary observation of their health.

JNIMS authority will collect the samples of the seven persons for necessary test for novel corona virus tomorrow. The test is to be done at the Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory of Department of Microbiology of JNIMS where the test for the first COVID-19 patient was conducted.

Union health ministry

COVID-19 scare dampens Cheiraoba spirit Correspondent IMPHAL, Mar 25: “Sajibu Cheiraoba (the New Year of Manipuri lunar calendar), this time was celebrated with a subdued spirit across Manipur valley on Wednesday.

The tradition of climbing hills nearby the valley districts to worship the hill deity, married women visiting their parental homes to present gifts to their parents and brother and wishing them prosperity etc are the main highlights of the celebration. People however avoided all these events owing to public curfew imposed across the state to combat the spread of COVID-19 and it scare.

Reinforcing total lockdown till March 31, Manipur government through the district administration across the state has promulgated indefinite curfew under sub-section 2 of section 144 of CrPC. The curfew came into force since 8 am on Tuesday.

Since then, police have been strictly enforced restriction of people moving out of their houses, particularly in the twin capital districts of the state. The restriction coupled with COVID-19 fears compelled people to remain indoors for the second consecutive day.

WEDDING POSTPONEMENT

approved the laboratory at JNIMS as the nodal agency for testing corona virus in the state.

Including the five persons who picked up from Bishnupur, as many as 13 individuals in Bishnupur district have been put on quarantine at government designated facility in the district. All the 13 individuals recently returned home from outside the state, a police source said.

If necessary, test for the disease would be done for the five individuals from Bishnupur who were on board the same flight with the infected patient, the police source added.

Following the confirmation of the 23-year-old woman who returned to Imphal from United Kingdom via Delhi, Kolkata and Agartala, state home department on Tuesday directed all passengers who flew into Imphal by Air Asia Fight (no. i5-501) on March 21 to contact the state health directorate immediately and not later than 8 am on March 25.

The medical director-

ate had already quarantined 12 persons including eight family members of the infected woman at a government designated centre in Imphal West district soon after her test result tested positive.

Meanwhile, locals of Keirao in Imphal East district today protested against alleged unsafe disposal of kits used by the medical staff of TB hospital there where government opened a quarantine centre for the district.

Irked by utter negligence by the medical staff on disposal of kits at improper place, the locals demanded immediate shifting of the centre.

The locals further demanded befitting action against those disposing waste kits at improper place, alleging that the act has created panic in the locality.

The matter was however settled on the intervention by the district SP and local MLA who assured the locals of such irresponsible act not repeated by the medical staffs.

COVID-19: Assam prepared for any eventuality, says Sonowal Guwahati, Mar 24 (PTI): Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday said the state’s health department is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

He also urged personnel associated with essential services like civil and police administration, banks, and fire brigade to carry out their duties responsibly in this hour of crisis.

The chief minister appealed to people of the state to remain indoors as social distancing and avoidance of mass gathering are the significant precautionary measures in the absence of any standard treatment for COVID-19.

He added that no positive case of coronavirus has so far been reported in Assam. Sonowal asked officials of the supply department to strengthen the existing supply chain to ensure the availability of essential commodities, and to keep a

Sarbananda Sonowal

watch on markets in order to control prices.

Meanwhile, officials said the Kamrup (Metro) district administration has been directed to organise relief camps/dharamsalas at suitable locations to accommodate stranded people from outside the state, who are unable to travel due to disruption of train and flight services.

Likewise, the General Administrative Department (GAD) will be arranging for dharamsalas/guest houses in different parts of the country, particularly in Kolkata, where people from Assam are stuck up, they said.

Good Morning, Easty!!

I wish you love, hope and everlasting joy and happiness. Thank you for being my Amazing Friend!! Wish you a very Happy Quarantine Birthday! ha..ha...

Love, Elly_Chumie!

WEDDING POSTPONEMENT

S o l e m n i s a t i o n o f t h e We d d i n g of our children, Miss Winnie and Mr. Nukshisangba, on 2nd April at Japu Village and Reception on 4th April at Dimapur has been postponed due to present situation.

Invitees are requested to bear with our families.

Solemnisation of the wedding of our children, Ms Kevize Rio with Mr Kenei Zumu, on 27th March 2020 in Tsiemekhuma has been postponed due to the present situation.

Invitees and well wishers are requested to bear with our families.

Mr. & Mrs. S.K Sangtam and Mr. & Mrs. Lanutoshi

Mrs Neizonuo Rio & Mr Sakralie Rio & Mrs Khrietsiü Zumu & Mr. Zasilhoulie Zumu

DP-2186

and financial support to the poor, especially the daily wagers, besides medical help.

In the lockdown period, banking services, shops and markets dealing with groceries, vegetables, medicine, milk, cooking gas, and petrol pumps would remain open in most of the northeastern states. Most state governments also arranged alternate duty roster for their employees, asking a large number of government staff to come to office alternatively and to work from their homes.

However, just before

for preparing cooked food and distributing it twice a day among the urban poor.

“Reputed Self Help Group can be engaged for cooking, packging and distributing packed foods to the urban poor families at their doorstep,” Urban Development Department Director Shailesh K. Yadav said in a letter to all urban local bodies across Tripura.

The Tripura Newspaper Society, the apex body of newspaper owners and editors, have decided to suspend publication of newspapers till March 31 as the hawkers are reluctant to carry on distribution of newspapers.

In a noble gesture, the Tripura High Court judge Arindam Lodh on Wednesday personally donated Rs one lakh to the Chief Minister’’s relief fund and Rs 50,000 to Tripura Medical College to meet the expenses for fighting coronavirus.

The Airport Authority of India has also donated Rs 10 lakh from their Corporate Social Responsibility fund for helping and boosting the fight against the COVID-19.

WEDDING POSTPONEMENT Solemnisation of our children Luluna (Indetlu) & Tuntan Dailiam on Friday April 3, 2020 has been postponed due to the present situation.

WE’RE FORCED TO DELAY THEIR BIG DAY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO THE GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS WE WILL BE IN TOUCH AGAIN JUST AS SOON AS WE HAVE OUR REVISED PLANS CONFIRMED WITH LOVE MR. & MRS. DUAKPING ROGER ZELIANG AND MR. & MRS. NEIBA NEWMAI

WEDDING POSTPONEMENT Wedding solemnisation of our children Miss Kumrila Limkhiungkhiungru with Mr. John Khiphuru on 2nd of April 2020 at Old Showuba Baptist Boru, Dimapur has been postponed due to the ongoing situation.

Invitees and well wishers are requested to kindly bear with our families.

Inconveniences highly regretted.

DP-2189

(Mr Mukamchim & Mrs Chimkila) & (Mr Beri & Mrs Kekhimla)

K-856

GS Road wear a deserted look during a nationwide lockdown in Guwahati on Wednesday. (PTI)

lathicharge against several lockdown violators.

Police and district administration officials through public address systems have alerted the people not to come out on roads and avoid mass gatherings to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who had earlier directed district Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police to ensure that there is no shortage of essential commodities in the state, said on Wednesday that the state has enough stocks of foodgrains for two-and-ahalf months.

He appealed to the people to follow the 21day lockdown to maintain social distancing to prevent the spread of the COVID19.

In Tripura, commercial bank authorities announced that the business hours of the bank branches in the state would be restricted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m till March 31.

The Tripura Urban Development Department has asked all urban local bodies to set up kitchens

K-857

Guwahati/Agartala, March 25 (IANS): As lockdown continued effectively across the northeastern region of India on Wednesday, the police detained around 200 people in different states for violating the enforcement, officials said.

The authorities, especially the health services officials, have further maximized their efforts and campaigns against the COVID-19, after a 50-yearold man, a Christian pastor from Mizoram, was tested positive for the novel coronavirus, making it the second case in the northeastern region after the a 23-yearold Manipuri woman tested positive.

The Mizo man had returned to Aizawl from Amsterdam, Netharland via Delhi and Guwahati on March 16 while the Manipuri girl returned from the United Kingdom on March 21 via Delhi, Kolkata and Agartala.

During the lockdown period, the state governments of the seven northeaster n states also announced a slew of diverse sops and free rice supply

12 on board flight with COVID-19 patient quarantined in Manipur

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

5

urges people to back PM PM warns misbehaving with frontline staff Chidambaram says he’s the commander, we are foot soldiers

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday warned of strict action against those misbehaving with people on the frontline of the fight against coronavirus like doctors and airline crew, and sought the cooperation of citizens with administration to deal with the crisis.

Modi chose a video interaction with residents of Varanasi, the constituency he represents in Parliament, to respond to several queries related to the pandemic and his government’s response to it, and asserted that focusing on a few incidents of shortcomings will not help at this hour.

Invoking the Mahabharata, he said the epic war was won in 18 days and his government’s effort is to win this war against coronavirus in 21 days.

Lord Krishna was the charioteer then and now 130 crore people are the charioteers in this battle, he said.

To a question about the hardships being faced especially by the poor migrants and daily wagers, the prime minister acknowledged that there may be some difficulties.

If he claimed that all is well, then he would be deceiving himself, Modi said, and then added that what is a more important question is that whether the pandemic has to be defeated or not even if it means fac-

asks people to cooperate with administration

PM Modi interacts with citizens of Varanasi amid nationwide lockdown, in the wake of coronavirus outbreak, via video conferencing, in New Delhi, Wednesday. (PTI)

ing certain difficulties.

Even in normal times, people face certain problems, he said.

Noting that ‘Navaratri’ has started from Wednesday, he asked people to take care of nine poor families on each of the nine auspicious days, saying nothing can be of more devotion to goddess Durga. They should also tend to animals, he added.

“Karuna” (compassion) is also a step toward defeating the coronavirus, he said.

The Centre and states are taking measures to help the poor and daily-wagers, he said.

“The difficulties being faced are only for 21 days.

But if the coronavirus crisis is not over and its spread is not stopped, then we cannot imagine the harm it will cause,” Modi said.

Asked about reports of misbehaviour with medical personnel and airline crew, he said he was pained by this and has asked the home ministry and state DGPs to take tough action against culprits.

If anybody targets doctors, nurses and all those rendering their service during this crisis, then it will cost them dearly, Modi said, adding people in white like doctors and nurses are like gods.

Citizens should also object if they see anybody misbehaving with these pro-

fessionals, he added.

There have been reports of medical personnel and airline crew being harassed in their neighborhood by some vigilante residents because they might have dealt with suspected cases.

Modi also asked people to cooperate with the government and the administration, and not to pressure them, for better results during the lockdown period.

“There may be incidents of some shortcoming or negligence. But looking for such cases and focussing and publicising them, discouraging some sector will not benefit at this time.

There can be a thousand

reasons to spread pessimism. I am not saying they are all wrong but life runs on hope and trust,” he said.

Doctors, police personnel and many others have been working very hard and should be encouraged, he said. They should be publicly feted, he said.

Modi also asked people to shun superstition, rumour and self-medication and emphasised his message of self-distancing if the battle against the deadly virus has to be won.

He noted that over one lakh of COVID-19 patients have recovered the world over and many dozens have in India as well.

This disease does not discriminate between the rich and the poor, among regions and infects even those very conscious about their health, he said, adding that social distancing is the only way out and people should have patience and should follow guidelines.

The government has joined hands with WhatsApp to start a help desk, and people can get proper guidelines about the virus by contacting a number (9013151515), the prime minister said.

Kashi, another name for Varanasi, can show the way to the country with its patience, coordination, empathy, peace, tolerance, service and solution, he said, noting that the holy place is known for annihilating sins and crisis.

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Former Home Minister and Congress leader P Chidambaram today urged everyone to back Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “stay at home” call saying the PM is the commander and people are the foot soldiers in the fight against the disease.

“The PM’s announcement yesterday of a nationwide 21-day lockdown is a watershed moment in the battle against COVID 19.

We should put behind us the debates that took place before March 24 and look upon the nationwide lockdown as the beginning of a new battle in which the people are the foot soldiers and the PM is the Commander.

We owe a duty to extend our total support to the Prime Minister and the central and state governments,” Chidambaram said.

The former minister also laid down a 10 point plan to ease the stress of the marginalized who would be the worst hit in the lockdown period.

Appealing to all to stay at home, Chidambaram said “ # S TAY H O M E I N D I A is a great rally cry. But to #STAY HOME, people will need money and food.

We must think and plan not only for the next 21 days but for some weeks beyond the lockdown period. Besides, current employment and wages must be protected.”

The plan, he said, is intended to put cash and food

P Chidambaram

immediately in the hands of the poor and the vulnerable.

The ex minister suggested that farmers’ incomes be doubled under PM-KISAN to Rs 12,000 and transferred immediately to the bank account of each beneficiary.

“Bring tenant farmers under PM-KISAN. Take the lists from the state governments and transfer Rs 6000 + Rs 6000 (in two instalments) to the bank account of each tenant farmer. Take the lists of registered MGNREGA workers and transfer a sum of Rs 3000 into the bank account of each beneficiary,” he said.

Chidambaram said there will be some duplication but that does not matter at this time.

“For the urban poor, Chidambaram said, use Jan Dhan accounts with urban branches of the banks and transfer a sum of Rs 6000 into the bank account of each beneficiary. Offer to every ration card holder, through the ration shops, 10 kg of rice or wheat absolutely free, as a one-time

measure in the next 21 days.

Arrange for home delivery,” he said. The Congress leader asked all registered employers (registered under any law) to maintain current levels of employment and wages.

“Guarantee to such employers who do so that the wages of the employees will be reimbursed by the government within 30 days of payment,” he suggested.

Chidambaram also asked the government to open a register in every ward or block and invite persons who have not received payment under any of the categories listed above to register their name, address and Aadhaar.

“Street people will fall under this category. After minimal verification, open a bank account in each name (if there is not already one), seed it with Aadhaar and transfer Rs 3000 into each bank account and extend the deadlines for payment of any kind of tax until 30 June 2020. In the interim, banks can be instructed to lend to panchayats, municipalities and corporations against the security of the tax receivables,” he said asking the government to instruct banks to extend the date for any kind of EMI payment until 30 June 2020 and cut GST rates by 5 per cent on all wage goods, essential goods and services, and all goods of mass consumption for the period 1 April to 30 June 2020.

Essentials, medicines shop will Govt looks for volunteer doc Parliamentarians can use MPLADS remain open throughout lockdown to fight COVID-19 outbreak fund to procure masks, testing kits

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday said there was no need for people to panic as shops selling essentials and medicines will remain open throughout the 21day lockdown imposed to combat the coronavirus outbreak.

He also said there were sufficient legal provisions available to deal with black marketeers and hoarders.

He was referring to the lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Addressing the media about the decisions taken by the Union Cabinet on Wednesday, he said the Centre and the state governments are working together to effectively implement the lockdown and ensure people do not suffer.

He described the cooperation between the Centre and the states as a fine example of cooperative federalism. Responding to a question of some resident welfare associations asking doctors and even journalists either not to venture out or vacate their apartment, he said such an action was not appreciated.

Prakash Javadekar

He recalled that during ‘janta curfew’ on Sunday, people had clapped for those at the forefront of fighting the virus. “The society should understand,” he said.

He said the Cabinet also discussed the coronavirus outbreak, but did not give details. He said though social distancing in 21 days will end daily social activity of many, it was essential to prevent the spread of the deadly virus. He the need of the hour was to protect yourself and your dear ones.

The number of coronavirus cases in India rose to 562 on Wednesday.

It was a low-key Ugadi celebrations in Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh with people mostly staying indoors. Ugadi is a

festival marking New Year’s Day for Hindus.

Maharashtra also witnessed a subdued celebration of Gudi Padwa, which marks the beginning of the New Year in the state.

In Uttar Pradesh, the 9-day Navratra festival also began on a subdued note with many people preferring to perform the rituals from their homes by sending names and other details to the priest to do the puja on their behalf.

Police across all states also kept a strict vigil on violators of prohibitory orders.

In the national capital, over 180 cases were registered and 5,103 people detained for violations of government order during the lockdown, police said.

According to data shared by the Delhi Police, 183 cases were registered under section 188 (for disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code till 5 pm. A total of 5,103 persons have been detained under section 65 (persons bound to comply with reasonable directions of Police officer) and 956 vehicles have been impounded under section 66 of the Delhi Police Act, they stated.

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): The government is looking for volunteer doctors to fight the COVID-19 outbreak which has infected over 600 people in the country and has taken more than 16,000 lives across the globe. In a statement posted on Niti Aayog’s website on Wednesday, the government appealed to retired government, Armed Forces Medical Services, public sector undertaking or a private doctor to come forward and join the efforts of the government to fight the deadly virus. Those who wish to contribute to this and be a part of this nobel mission to serve the country may register themselves on a link provided on the official website of the Niti Aayog.

“The Government of India requests for volunteer doctors who are fit and willing to be available for providing their services in the public health facilities and the training hospitals in the near future.

“We appeal to such doctors to come forward at this hour of need. You could also be a retired government, Armed Forces Medical Services, public sector undertaking or a private doctor,” the statement said.

It noted that in case the outbreak leads to a high number of infected individuals, India’s public health facilities will face tremendous load to take care of the large number of patients.

“This overwhelming burden may not be met by the available doctors in the public health system.

The Central and state governments are augmenting and expediting increase in healthcare services in every part of the country. In addition, COVID-19 ‘train hospitals’ are being created in this regard,” it added.

The country is facing an unprecedented public health emergency with the COVID-19 pandemic affecting several parts of the nation. The Central and state governments have made exceptional efforts to combat the crisis along with the involvement of all citizens.

Coronavirus cases in the country crossed 600 on Wednesday as authorities beefed up preparedness to fight the pandemic with a chain of hospitals of the Army ordnance factories and central paramilitary forces earmarking over 2,000 beds for isolation and treatment of people affected

by COVID-19.

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Parliamentarians can now use Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) fund for medical testing and other facilities required to detect and contain coronavirus, according to recently amended rules.

The move follows appeals by some MPs, including Vivek Tankha of the Congress.

“I thank the prime minister and the government of India for responding to our request to relax MPLADS rules permitting MPs to use public funds in the war against coronavirus. This battle is everyone’s responsibility,” Tankha told PTI. He said the parliamentarians will now be able to help the administration in providing assistance to the needy ones.

“All MPs can reach out to people only through the administration. By relaxing the rules for the utilisation of MPLAD fund, MPs will now be able to reach out to the people through the administration by ensuring the use of MPLAD fund. It can now be used in the purchase of protective gear, masks and sanitis-

ers,” said Tankha, a Rajya Sabha member from Madhya Pradesh. As per earlier guidelines, MPLADS funds can be used only for permanent work.

“I had rechecked with district and state authorities.

(MPs are) Not permitted to purchase & supply disposable & consumables unless allowed/clarified,” he said.

Tankha had appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to permit MPs to use their MPLADS funds to reach people through district administration.

“Need masks, sanitizers, medicines & food packets at least twice daily for lacs of men , women & children. Allow public funds to be used for people,” he had demanded.

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Imple-

mentation then issued fresh guidelines on Tuesday allowing the use of MPLAD fund for the purpose.

The ministry, based on the requests of MPs, has decided that district authorities may utilise MPLADS funds for medical testing, screening and other facilities required to detect and contain COVID-19, an order said.

It has been decided to grant one-time dispensation under MPLADS fund to buy face masks, gloves and sanitisers for medical personnel, coronavirus testing kits, thermal imaging scanners or cameras for railway stations and airports, and any other medical equipment to check COVID-19, among others, the ministry said in the order, a copy of which was shared by Tankha.

I-card carrying delivery staff 32 CAPF hospitals with 1,900 beds earmarked for COVID-19 patients not to be stopped in lockdown NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (IANS): Faced with disruptions in supplies and delivery of essential items following the nationwide lockdown announced to contain Covid-19, the Centre plans to issue fresh set of advisories to the states as not to disrupt the movement of people working to deliver medicines, groceries, dairy products and other food items.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has initiated talks with the state Chief Secretaries asking them not to restrict movement of people engaged in home delivery of essential items, mentioned in the list of exempted items circulated by the Home Ministry.

States have been asked to ensure that people mak-

ing home deliveries should not be harassed or stopped if they carry genuine identity cards issued by their companies. They are also being asked to ensure uninterrupted supply to retailers of essential items to prevent any problem to people due to lockdown.

“We have told e-commerce companies to provide ID cards to their employees that would allow them free movement during lockdown. Also, associations of organised retailers, e-commerce firms and pharmacies have been told to provide a list of their outlets, delivery personnel and supply wares to the state Chief Secretaries to maintain the supply of essential items,” said a DPIIT official.

The state that have shut borders were being asked to

allow movement of essential items to maintain supply lines up to retailers.

The move has been triggered by complaints from retailers and e-commerce firms that they were unable to move their goods due to lockdown-related restrictions and harassment of employees.

In fact, several e-commerce entities, dealing with supply of food and other essential items, have not been operating since ‘janata curfew’ on March 22. It has forced people to head and crowd markets to get essential supplies, much against the advisory on social distancing.

“Supply chains will be smoothened in a day or two,” DPIIT Secretary Guruprasad Mohapatra told a media outlet.

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): A chain of 32 paramilitary forces hospitals across the country, with a total capacity of about 1,900 beds, have been taken over by the government for isolation and treatment of COVID-19 affected patients, officials said on Wednesday.

The “urgent” decision to use the ‘’composite hospitals’’ of these forces, also called as the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), was taken after a high-level meeting of the Union home ministry that was chaired by the secretary of border management.

An order issued by the medical establishment of these forces has been reviewed by PTI and it said that these hospitals have been designated and earmarked for the “purpose of isolation cum treatment of COVID-19 patients as and

Representational image.

when they arrive”.

These 32 hospitals are operated by forces like the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and are located at places like Greater Noida, Hyderabad, Guwahati, Jam-

mu, Tekanpur (Gwalior), Dimpaur, Imphal, Nagpur, Silchar, Bhopal, Avadi, Jodhpur, Kolkata, Pune and Bengaluru, among others.

The total capacity of these 32 earmarked hospitals is 1,890 beds, a senior official said.

The order said as these hospitals face “acute defi-

ciency” of skilled manpower and special equipments, efforts are being made to send specialist doctors and medical tools like ventilators and personal protective equipment (PPE), used by healthcare workers on duty, to these locations.

It has also been directed that arrangements

should also be made so that people already admitted here, troops of these forces or their family members, could be shifted to another location incase the number of coronavirus-affected people increases.

The central government earlier this month had also directed the CAPFs to prepare quarantine facilities with a bed capacity to admit over 5,400 people at their 37 locations in the country to deal with coronavirus cases.

Border guarding force ITBP is already running the largest such CAPF quarantine centre, which can accommodate 1,000 people, in Delhi’s Chhawla area.

The about 10-lakh personnel strong CAPFs work under the command of the home ministry and are deployed to render a variety of internal security duties apart from border guarding.

6

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

Vol. XXx NO. 109 Dimapur, THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

COVID 19 arrives NE

A

ll the seven states in Northeast will be in a lockdown for various periods. Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland had announced lockdown on Sunday till March 31. Assam began on Tuesday and will continue till March 31. In Meghalaya, the lockdown took effect from March 24 and will be on a ‘One-day-open-two-days-closed’ policy till March 29. Tripura began lockdown from March 24 and will continue till March 31. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a 21-day nationwide Lockdown on March 24, the anti-COVID 19 measure will now extend till April 13,2020. The impact on the nation’s economy is certainly going to be negative against the backdrop of economic slowdown and increased fiscal deficit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his speech on March 24 had noted it but maintained that the nation’s health was far more important than the national wealth. The figure of COVID cases in the country continues to rise rapidly from 519 on March 24 to over 600 in March 25. The death toll also rose from 10 on March 24 to 19 on March 25. The rising trend indicates that more blood samples are yet to be tested as and when the number of people indicating symptoms of COVID 19 are collected. This will also mean that the worst is yet to come. The north east, which appear to remain far away from mainland India was not that far when two cases were confirmed positive for COVID. One was from Manipur and the other from Mizoram. Both persons had travelled abroad and returned. The one from Manipur returned from the UK and the other from Mizoram, had returned from the Netherlands. In addition to the two, other persons they came into contact with such as relatives will also have to undergo test and advised quarantine.

Worse still, even the passengers who were travelling in the same planes with the two, will also have to be checked and subject them to tests and quarantine.

Of north eastern states, Tripura has quarantined 417 ; Nagaland has sent eight blood samples for tests of which five are negative and results of three awaited.

Meghalaya has sent 80 blood samples and all were tested negative. Manipur has sent 18 and one tested positive while Mizoram sent seven and one tested positive. Arunachal Pradesh has sent two and both tested negative. According to a media report, though the Assam government has claimed that till now there is not even a single positive case of Covid-19 detected in the state, the precautionary measures which were announced by the state health and finance minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 23 has raises doubts on how prepared the state is for an outbreak. Till March 23, a total of 169 Covid-19 tests have been conducted across Assam in four testing centres. One which was tested positive in Jorhat was later tested negative in Dibrugarh in the second test done. Of all north eastern states, Assam is at the centre and the main transit point for almost all north eastern states barring Tripura and Sikkim. This leads to expectation that there could be some COVID case(s). Thus, it will be necessary to place Assam under close monitoring in view of its size and being the transit for all states including tens and thousands of travellers going to or passing through it.

DailyDevotion Maintaining the Proper Relationship

…the friend of the bridegroom… —John 3:29

Goodness and purity should never be traits that draw attention to themselves, but should simply be magnets that draw people to Jesus Christ. If my holiness is not drawing others to Him, it is not the right kind of holiness; it is only an influence which awakens undue emotions and evil desires in people and diverts them from heading in the right direction. A person who is a beautiful saint can be a hindrance in leading people to the Lord by presenting only what Christ has done for him, instead of presenting Jesus Christ Himself. Others will be left with this thought— “What a fine person that man is!” That is not being a true “friend of the bridegroom”— I am increasing all the time; He is not. To maintain this friendship and faithfulness to the Bridegroom, we have to be more careful to have the moral and vital relationship to Him above everything else, including obedience.

Sometimes there is nothing to obey and our only task is to maintain a vital connection with Jesus Christ, seeing that nothing interferes with it.

Only occasionally is it a matter of obedience. At those times when a crisis arises, we have to find out what God’s will is. Yet most of our life is not spent in trying to be consciously obedient, but in maintaining this relationship— being the “friend of the bridegroom.” Christian work can actually be a means of diverting a person’s focus away from Jesus Christ. Instead of being friends “of the bridegroom,” we may become amateur providences of God to someone else, working against Him while we use His weapons.

Quotes

Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident. ~ A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

Q

The challenge Nagaland faces

uoting the dates here is based mostly on the information which was published by the local papers. The GOI declared the novel Corona Virus Disease 2019 which was coined by World Health Organisation (WHO) as COVID-19 as ‘notified disaster’ on the 14th March, 2020 and was publicised on the next day, the 15th March, 2020. Following which the few sensitive NGOs urged the Govt. of Nagaland to initiate preventive measures.

On the 17.3.2020, the State Govt. ordered for closure of schools which was the right decision. However, except the thermal screening of the incoming travellers at Dimapur Airport, the Train Station and the Inter-State Bus Terminal through which maximum incoming travellers used to come daily were left free without monitoring.

Whereas, the neighbouring States including Assam have started preventive measures on the movements of people at entry point. Till this period the State Govt. was dependent on creation of awareness of the pandemic through mere poster campaign at Train Station and Bus Terminal. The bigger flaw was allowing the foreigners to visit Nagaland without restriction as not less than 383 foreigners visited Nagaland by air and by train from 1st January till March 16, 2020 and this figure excludes those who came by road. Those visitors were from the disease infected countries although whether any of the visitors were the virus carrier or not was unknown since the train or vehicle passengers were not checked.

On the 18.3.2020 the

concerned authority announced that the Police personnel will be trained how to use the thermal screening test gadget to check the incoming travellers. Beside, ‘the health unit personnel’ working under Dr. Matthew Thomas perhaps commanding a task force against the COVID-19 divulged it to press that masks for the health employees have been ordered. If this information is correct, it is pathetic to observe how the Health department is so casual in handling the situation.

On the 19.3.2020, the Chief Medical Officer based in Dimapur received 10 nos. of Thermal Screening machine with which the three major entry points at Dilai gate, Dimapur Railway Station and New Field Check gate are now reportedly placed under monitoring.

The Nagaland Health Department also announced to those of Nagaland citizens who landed in the State from outside since March 1, 2020 to contact certain contact numbers is considered lagging behind time. Should anyone being infected with the virus and reached home without detection during the last 18 days, such person could become the epicentre. Such basic and important guidelines should have been disseminated widely much in advance. The local media pointed out that Health Department failed to issue guidelines for the safety of People Living with HIV(PLHIV), sex workers, MSM/TG and People who inject Drugs(PWD) as the same amount of attention has to be paid to those sections. Initially it was very surprising and discouraging to hear (unofficial) that the

Health Department has hardly 10 0r 11 ventilators for the whole State of Nagaland. Against the backdrop, the Medical Director announced that such equipments as protective suits and masks are being procured.

On the 20.3.2020, the State Govt. has invoked the Nagaland Epidemic Disease (COVID-19) Regulations 2020 for the whole of Nagaland w.e.f. March 18, 2020. Accordingly, the Health Department has issued clearer instructions for the public to abide by it. On the 21.3.2020, the Health Department issued directives to private business establishments as shops and restaurants to maintain hygiene for the commuters.

All what said and done by the State Govt. are in the best interest of every citizen.

The public discipline is the better weapon against the COVID-19. We can prevent the disease from invading our State only through concerted effort called self restraint while practicing the given guidelines.

The terrible COVID-19 has overwhelmed the world with tsunami devastation.

The impact has wrested the most richest and sophisticated nations helplessly. Those nations with the advancements in health care, science and technology are found struggling to the rippling waves of the COVID-19 when the nations were perhaps caught either in their over-confidence or in their slumber. Dr. Tedros Adhanon, the Chief of WHO called upon the nations to his slogan Test, Test and Test in order to arrest the disease.

All the preventive and

restrictive measures undertaken by the Health Department of Nagaland so far are essential indeed. Provided that the report of the same Department that till the 24th of March, 2020 there is none who is infected with the fearful virus. Nevertheless, the Health department has sent only one sample for test which was found negative as per local media. My sincere concern is how the nodal authorities are meticulously monitoring the vulnerable section of the citizens. If those who are supposed to undergo proper test of the disease are not roped in to have the test, how one can be sure that there is no positive case in Nagaland till 24th March, 2020 or after. Issuing directive by the authorities behind time is a matter of concern. A victim of the virus will have the double burden on the question of survival and the social stigma due to which one may not readily oblige to respond to those given guidelines lest the law is applied.

Despite the sincere efforts of the monitoring authority, if Nagaland can still be confident of having no such positive case so far, we thank God. Nevertheless, there is a sea of difference in respect of the moral confidence of the general public as for Nagaland has no COVID-19 patient and Nagaland too has one. In my opinion, the Health Department cannot afford to conceal the fact and misguide the people of the State. I believe the Health Department’s declaration that Nagaland has no positive case, and yet it should not hesitate to divulge the fact. In the event of Nagaland detecting

a single positive case, it will send shocking wave which I expect will greatly improve the public discipline, and therefore such case must not be withheld.

The PDA ministry is not solely responsible for the shortages of medical facilities in Nagaland. The previous successive Govts too failed to build the requisite infrastructures. Let me reiterate what I had already vented out at this juncture in the interest of the public. The Health and Medical Department has its history of preferring to make huge investments on both expensive and useless items by which the buyer could squeeze maximum honey out of it. The Assembly Committees used to find that those expensive equipments were allowed to rot in the store for want of technician to operate or those useless items to become waste while the healthcare centres were made to suffer from want of cheap life saving drugs, plaster, cotton, etc. The Department being bifurcated with maximum manpower today, it is expected to perform better and yet the old fashion seemed to have been maintained.

Now we all know the reason why the death toll of COVID-19 in Italy has doubled the figure of the death toll in China is due to lack of treatment beds. For instance, against 42 beds in a hospital, there are few thousand patients in the queue.

This is our lesson. Few of the harsh realities are highlighted in local media dated 24.3.2020, and thus our hospitals are not equipped with facilities to accommodate the infected persons for isolated treatment. The physicians and the nurses

may not have protective equipments to go and treat the patients because those kits are not fetching good profit margin for the buyers.

The District Hospital Dimapur is without ICU facility and it is only with just 10 beds in isolation ward. Yet, the Naga Christian voters used to consider those who could destroy the basic public amenities preferable.

Has the Health Department prepared adequate rooms for quarantine in the event of the eruption of the pandemic in Nagaland? I am afraid that the unfortunate victims of COVID-19 may have to avoidably face death due to two reasons: the lack of timely treatment and the virus.

Look at our neighbours. Meghalaya has one virus testing laboratory, Manipur has 2, Tripura has one and Assam has 4.

57 years is Nagaland’s age and we are still shamelessly dependent on the younger States barring Assam for testing the samples of the diseases without having a single laboratory. What has happened to Kohima District hospital and how many years more it should take to complete it? What has happened to the new Kohima High Court? 57 years is our age, and Nagaland Police is yet to establish a Forensic laboratory perhaps for want of sufficient fund and yet it has no dearth of fund to spend on testing the requisite evidences in the laboratories belonging to other States. Who has ruined Nagaland? Its the greedy voters. When are we, the Naga Christians, going to learn our lessons and realize?

Z. Lohe

Not just government’s fight The danger of smoking & chewing during COVID-19 endemic “T

here is no eco- tory on our part at the least, by the public. Some people nomic task force; to quarantine ourselves- to mocked the Government medical infra- stay home and to stay safe. for its just concluded ‘Janta structure is pathetic; the Most importantly, to con- curfew’ by saying that the s we a l l k n ow, and other lung diseases 4) Consumption of Government has failed to tained the virus in the unfor- fight against Corona virus C OV I D 1 9 h a s and they are vulnerable smokeless tobacco leads act timely,” are few of the tunate event of us getting the will take more than just clapbrought the world to develop complication. to indiscriminate spitting many statements the Gov- infection. Media is flooded ping and a one-day national ernment is bombarded with by a story of an infected boy shutdown. While that is true, to its knee but it’s the re- Moreover, the capacity of and they could become a as India fights the highly from Kolkata who visited what most people overlook sponsibility of every indi- the lung to provide oxy- potential source of infeccontagious Covid-19. But many places after testing is the fact that the initia- vidual to adopt safety mea- gen to the body is also tion.

5) Pan and tamul over time, it has become positive with covid-19. Then, tive has aroused the much sures to break the chain greatly reduced due to the clearly visible that while there are instances of people needed public -awareness of transmission and also damaged lung and thus products are handled many we, the public scrutinized fleeing from hospital isola- about the virus, apart from mitigate the complication. increases the chance of times before they are sold in the retail shops. There the Government’s actions tion-wards. We can witness acknowledging the selfless In a pandemic situation systemic complication.

2) With every smok- is every chance that they and inactions and criticized the fear and anxiety people dedication and sacrifices of like today, Tobacco habthe healthcare workers and its such as smoking and ing, the amount of oxygen could be contaminated if the measures adopted by the attached with ‘isolation’.

Govt. to control the spread There are lots of initia- other essential service pro- chewing could be risky supply to your body is handled by carriers and of covid-19, there are many tives that can be taken, es- viders. Also, worth mention- for all. Smokers have one reduced as carbon monox- chewing and swallowing instances which show the pecially by the more known ing is the simple fact that the and half chance more of ide molecules in burning such products could be picture otherwise. Though personalities- to not just observance of ‘Janta Curfew’ developing complication cigarettes and bidi deprive extremely risky. the Govt. is faced with the educate people about the in no ways imply that the from COVID-19 and use of the oxygen as haemoglobin All are requested to grueling task of steering necessity of ‘isolation’ and Government’s initiative is smokeless tobacco could has greater affinity for be careful with risky habits the economy and keeping ‘public distancing’ but to restricted to that one day. become a source of infec- carbon monoxide than and this could be the best the virus at bay, it has fared convey a message that,’ it Schools and offices remained tion through spitting due to oxygen. time to quit tobacco. exceedingly well by imple- is not scary and perfectly shut; lockdowns continue to the following reasons.

3) The smokers also Regards Dr C Tetseo menting a well balanced ac- normal.’ This is a time when exist; social distancing and 1) T h e d e f e n s e have a greater chance of State nodal officer tion plans with indomitable we look up to celebrities to self-quarantine guideline are NTCP spirit. All the state Govern- be our role models. In con- still in place. What is more? mechanism of the lung is transmitting the virus from Directorate of Health ments has now declared lock- trast, a celebrity singer, Ms. The Indian railways have already compromised due their hands to their mouth and Family Welfare downs and semi-lockdowns Kanika Kapoor, who landed suspended its services and to smoking as most of the as they frequently touch till 31st of March, apart from in India from London on the all flights; both domestic and smokers suffer from COPD their lips while smoking.

Kohima Nagaland the war-footing initiatives to 9th of March 2020 allegedly international are cancelled. educate the public about the bypassed Govt’s directive of In fact, it was some people, virus. Except for the medical self-quarantine for a mini- who, contrary to the purpose infrastructures, which too mum 14 days for all travelers of the observance, defy social have seen positive develop- from infected nations and distancing norms and took ments, the Govt. has done had even attended a party. to streets the drumming most of what is possible in The singer expectedly was and clapping exercise. That its hand. slammed by twiterrati when surely is not the GovernMany people have right- she announced on 20th of ment’s fault.

The fight against Coro- Sir, ly pointed out our inordinate March 2020 that she has Right now everyone should rise above discrimination in his mind and bring delay in fighting corona vi- tested positive for the vi- navirus will require efforts a feeling of Oneness. Only then we can do better welfare of our Society. We can from the public as much rus; especially our dealings rus. The thought of many change the whole world only through self change, there is a saying that what we with in-bound foreign travel- people thus having possible as from the Government. give to others, we will get back in return.

Advisories are of no use, if ers- both Indians and foreign- chances of contacting the Otherwise fighting within the society, retaliation are all increasing. Now the ers. That concern no longer virus as a result of her al- flaunted at will. The onus exists and we are now in a leged negligence is frighten- now is on the public to ren- question is how do we all awaken to the feeling of oneness inside our minds? To stage beyond pointing fingers ing. While Kanika Kapoor der all possible help to the Fill any good or bad thing inside the mind, it’s a powerful tool (Feeling). and throwing accusations. in her defense has claimed concerned authorities. PutWe can do anything using this power, whether we can change our life also or The Government has made that she informed concerned ting the blame on the Gov- whether we can bring positiveness in the life of others also. To awaken the feeling necessary advisories and has authorities about her travels ernment may be easy but of unity, we have to understand the spirituality from our mind. Spirituality begins initiated social distancing and in fact insisted herself we all know this fight will with understanding oneself. and personal hygiene initia- for the test to be conducted, not be easy. This seemingly What is my reality? My reality is that I am a powerful Soul driving this body. tives. What about the public? many people find it unac- unwinnable fight does not Just like I am a Soul, all human beings on the earth are the same Soul through this require our herculean efforts Have we done our part? For, ceptable for a person of her the fight against Corona is stature to disregard basic though. A small initiative on body. Just like if someone misbehaves with me, I do not like it, nor do I have to surely not the Government’s preventive norms. There our part, as simple as main- think the same for others. This is called feeling of unity.

Now is the call of times, we should work on it to awaken this feeling, & disalone. We have equal, if not will be hundreds like her taining social distancing will greater roles to play. who have evaded screening go a long way. Honestly, that criminatory things have to be removed from the mind. So humble request to everyIt is understandable process for the virus and could be the only weapon, one to include Spirituality in your life. Spirituality teaches us how to rise above the the hesitation and fear to be while it is only human to with which we can effectively religion, caste, creed and think of ourselves as Souls & contact with other Souls. quarantined. But the same err, one hopes the incident control the deadly corona Because thinking more of religion & caste, then we are able to see the wave of pride way we expect our Govern- teaches people, especially virus. ‘Yes, together we can’ and chaos that has arisen in the whole world. Spirituality is a little different from ment to shut offices and the celebrated personalities seems the right message religion, it teaches us to be united in unity. schools and save stranded to be not just responsible but right now.

B.K. Sis Rupa Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University, Kohima branch T S Haokip Indians overseas, it is obliga- exemplary worth emulating 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.

A

Reader’s Post

Bring oneness & eliminate discrimination

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

7

Ram Lalla idol shifted; Yogi COVID-19: 21-day lockdown in India begins faces flak over social distancing

NEW DELHI/ MUMBA I / T H I RU VA NA N THAPURAM/CHENNA I / KO L K ATA / CHANDIGARH, MAR 25 (PTI): Anxious people made a beeline for grocery stores on Wednesday as the 21-day national lockdown kicked in from midnight shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced this unprecedented measure as the only way out to break the coronavirus transmission chain.

Underscoring the enormity of the health challenge before the country that led to imposing the lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said winning the war against coronavirus will take 21 days as opposed to the 18 days taken to win the epic war of Mahabharata.

The lockdown came into effect from midnight.

In his second national broadcast in a week on Tuesday night, Modi made a fervent appeal to the countrymen not to cross the ‘lakshman rekha’ of their homes in the next three weeks. India’s population is an estimated 1.3 billion.

An official said the MHA is monitoring the lockdown from a control room in

Policemen punish offenders, seated in marked circles to maintain social distancing in Jammu, Wednesday. (PTI)

Delhi.

Delhi: Five new coronavirus cases were reported in Delhi in past 24 hours, pushing the number of total cases to 35, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday, as his government decided to issue epasses for people associated with essential services to commute during the lockdown. Kejriwal said people ensuring essential services such as milk sellers, vegetable vendors and grocers can call helpline 1031 to get the passes on their mobile phones through WhatsApp. Addressing a joint digital press conference with Lt Governor Anil Baijal, the chief minister said people can walk down to shops

nearby to buy items of daily use, and they don’t need any pass for it.

An official later said a person wanting an e-pass will have to call 1031 and give his or her required details. Thereafter, an e-pass will be issued on the applicant’s mobile phone number through WhatsApp. Maharashtra: Inspired by photos outside a mall in China where the management drew circles on the floor to maintain social distancing to curb coronavirus spread, people in parts of Maharashtra have started implementing the same.

Circles and squares, drawn with safe distance separating them, indicate the spot where people should stand

Goa CM Sawant warns of jail for violation of quarantine breach

PANAJI, MAR 25 (PTI): Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Wednesday warned that those who are found to be roaming on streets despite having been advised home quarantine due to suspected coronavirus infection would be jailed.

Since morning, barring hospitals and pharmacies, all commercial establishments in the coastal state remained closed with police patrolling the streets.

As nation-wide lockdown to contain the virus outbreak began, the state government also announced that it would set up a food and medicine helpline for those who can not step out to buy essential things.

Special teams led by magistrates have been formed to catch those who violate home quarantine, Sawant told reporters.

“We have stamped all those who have been advised to remain quarantined at home. If we find anyone roaming outside on the street, they would be taken to police lock-ups or sent to

Pramod Sawant (File)

the Central jail for 14 days,” he said. The government has to take these extreme measures to ensure that the epidemic does not spread in Goa, Sawant added.

“We don’t have a single positive case of coronavirus infection in the state till now. All our efforts are to ensure that Goa remains coronavirus-free,” the chief minister said.

The call for 21-day lockdown given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received a good response in the state, he said.

“There are some apprehensions about the supply of essential commodities which the government is

addressing,” Sawant said, adding that people have been asked to volunteer to deliver essential commodities at doorstep.

“Those who are willing to volunteer would be screened for coronavirus infection. Once they are selected, they would be issued passes. They can go around with that pass only within a specified jurisdiction,” he said.

If anyone is found misusing the pass, the person would be severely punished, he warned.

The government would launch a food and medicine helpline for those who are living alone or others in need, the chief minister said. Once a person calls the helpline, volunteers would deliver food or medicines at home.

Fair Price Shop owners have been asked to register themselves with the Deputy Collector who will issue them passes, allowing them to deliver groceries and other essential commodities at customers’ homes, Sawant said.

MHA issues fresh guidelines on 21-day lockdown exemption

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): The home ministry on Wednesday issued fresh guidelines covering additional people and services who will be exempted from the 21-day lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In the new guidelines, the ministry said Reserve Bank of India and RBI-regulated financial markets, pay and accounts officers and field officers of the CAG, petroleum products and supply chain and forest staff are exempted from the purview of the lockdown.

Those people handling cargo operations in airports and railway stations, coal mining activities, officers and staff of resident commissioners based in Delhi and customs clearance at ports, airports and land borders are also exempted.

Forest offices staff and workers required to operate and maintain zoo, nurseries, wildlife, fire fighting in forests, watering plantations, patrolling and their necessary transport movement, social welfare department staff for operations of homes for children, disabled, senior citizens, destitute women, widows, observation homes and pensions service are

also exempted, the guidelines said. After Modi’s announcement, the home ministry on Tuesday night issued some guidelines for enforcement of the nationwide lockdown.

The guidelines listed several services including government and private offices that will be out of bounds during the period, while exempting establishments such as hospitals, ration shops, dairies, banks, insurance offices, and print and electronic media.

Delivery of all essential goods including food, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment through e-commerce has also been exempted from the purview of the lockdown.

“All enforcing authorities to note that these strict restrictions fundamentally relate to movement of people, but not to that of essential goods,” the guidelines issued on Tuesday said.

In Wednesday’s guidelines, veterinary hospitals, pharmacies (including Jan Aushadhi Kendra) and pharmaceutical research laboratories, IT vendor for banking operations, banking correspondent and ATM operations and cash management agencies were ex-

empted.

Shops for seeds and pesticides data and call centre for government, manufacturing units of essential goods, including drugs, pharmaceutical, medical devices, their raw material and intermediates, coal and mineral production, transportation, supply of explosives and activities incidental to mining operations were exempted from the 21-day lockdown.

Manufacturing units of packaging material for food items, drugs, pharmaceutical and medical devices, inter-state movement of goods/cargo for inland and exports, cross land border movement of essential goods including petroleum products and LPG, food products, medical supplies were also exempted.

The guidelines on Tuesday said all educational, training, research, coaching institutions etc., shall remain closed, places of worship shall remain closed.

No religious congregations will be permitted, without any exception.

“All social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions gatherings shall be barred,” they said.

and wait for their turn to make purchases.

Some towns such as Panhala, Ajara and a village called Pulachi Shiroli in Kolhapur district have started implementing the “novel” social distancing idea.

Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Wednesday appealed to the people of the state to follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for a three-week lockdown to fight the spread of the coronavirus in letter and spirit.

Stressing the need to stay at home to stem the spread of the deadly virus, he also said all essential services will be provided to the people by the state government. “All essential services will be provided by the state government. It is a very very challenging situation. We can come victorious against the spread of coronavirus by staying at home and breaking the chain,” the release said quoting the governor.

Kerala: Nine more people tested positive for the coronavirus in Kerala on Wednesday, taking the total number of those presently under treatment to 112.

The chief minister also said state-run retail liquor

outlets of the Beverages Corporation would be shut due to the lockdown.

West Bengal: Coronavirus pandemic desolated vast swathes of West Bengal on Wednesday, the first day of the 21-day nationwide lockdown, with streets empty and markets closed, but some frenzied panic buying at local departmental stores prompted police to use force to disperse customers.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee sought a Rs 1,500 crore package from the Centre to supplement the state government’s efforts to deal with the situation. Frazzled customers were seen queuing up outside cooking gas agencies to buy spare LPG cylinders.

Police baton-charged unruly buyers in some places.

People loitering aimlessly on streets were sternly told to return home, government officials said.

Punjab: The Punjab Police on Wednesday distributed food to the poor in many parts of the state and also ensured home delivery of essentials to daily wagers and slum dwellers amid a country-wide lockdown to check the spread of coronavirus, officials said.

Delhi drugs, cosmetics firms to make sanitisers

Life insurance for Cong demands implementation of healthcare, media, Nyay scheme in view of lockdown police in U’khand

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (IANS): The Delhi government on Wednesday allowed all drugs and cosmetics producers to manufacture ethanol-based hand sanitisers till June 30 without any separate licence.

“Permission has been granted to all manufacturers of drugs and cosmetics in Delhi to manufacture ethanol-based hand sanitisers up to June 30. No separate licence is required for the same,” Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain tweeted.

Those involved in producing homeopathic medicine can also manufacture the ethanol-based hand cleanser, according to an order from the Delhi Drug Department.

The central government has asked states to increase production of sanitisers to ensure its adequate supply.

Sanitisers produced in Delhi will have “for sale in Delhi only” written over it.

Their prices would have to be under the bar set by the Centre, the order said.

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): The Congress on Wednesday demanded the implementation of the party-proposed Nyay Yojna (minimum income guarantee scheme) to help the poor families in the country to cope with the situation arising out of the nationwide lockdown.

Asserting that the party supports the lockdown, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala, however, said the Congress was “deeply disappointed” by lack of coherent strategy or a clear way ahead on the part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Dear PM, India will adhere to the lockdown.

But what steps did the government take to tackle the corona pandemic despite early warnings in February?,” he asked.

In a series of tweets, addressed to the prime minister, Surjewala said,”the Congress demands relief package for framers... fair price for crops, indebtedness relief and suspension of all recoveries from farm-

Provide cash to poor during lockdown: Rahul

HC directs MEA to ensure safety of Indian students stranded in Kazakhstan

CBI questions three persons in DHFL scam

Airport without food, water, transportation and medical aid. The petition was filed

by Sehla Saira.

The court issued notice to the Centre through MEA and granted time to file response to the petition.

“Let this bench be apprised of the brief response/reply on March 28,” the court said in its three-page order,” it said.

“In the meantime... in view of the unsettled and difficult situation -emerging from the global COVID-19 pandemic -- in which Indian students find themselves stranded at the Almaty Airport, Kazakhstan, we find it incumbent upon us to direct the Ministry of External Affairs, government of India, to promptly appoint a nodal

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): The CBI has questioned former UPPCL managing director A P Mishra and two prime accused in the Rs 2,267 crore Employees’ Provident Fund scam in Uttar Pradesh wherein savings of power sector employees was invested in Dewan Housing Finance Corporation, which is facing multiple probes of swindling funds worth Rs 30,000 crore, officials said.

Besides Mishra, the agency questioned Pravin Kumar Gupta, former secretary of the UP State Power Sector Employees’ Trust; and Sudhanshu Dwivedi, former director (finance) of the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) recently. All three are lodged in a Lucknow prison after their arrest by the Uttar Pradesh police last year, they said. Gupta and Dwivedi were named as two accused in the CBI FIR, while Mishra is not listed as an accused. His alleged role is mentioned in the FIR, they said. The CBI team from the anti-corruption branch, Lucknow, which is conducting the probe had sought permission from the special court to question the suspects, they said.

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Amid a country-wide lockdown due to COVID19, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday demanded immediate financial support through direct cash transfers to the poor and daily wagers, noting that delaying this will cause widespread devastation and chaos.

He also urged the government to act swiftly in announcing tax breaks and financial support to industries which are struggling to prevent massive job losses during the coronavirus crisis.

“India is fighting a war against the coronavirus. The question is how can we minimise casualties in this war? I believe our strategy should have 2 components - Tackling Covid-19 and isolate the virus and block its escape routes. Massively expand testing to identify and treat those who are infected,” he said on Twitter.

The Congress leader also demanded creation of massive emergency field hospitals, particularly in urban areas, with full ICU capabilities to provide care to patients.

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): The Delhi High Court Wednesday directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure welfare and safety of Indian students stranded at Almaty Airport in Kazakhstan for the past 2-3 days without food and medical aid due to coronavirus pandemic.

A bench of justices Siddharth Mridul and Talwant Singh, which conducted the hearing through video conferencing, asked the authorities to expeditiously provide the students basic amenities and assistance with regard to food, medical care, lodging and transportation.

The hearing was conducted through video conferencing. The two judges joined from their homes while advocate Fozia Rahman, who appeared for the petitioner, and central government standing counsel Jasmeet Singh, who represented the MEA, were at their offices.

The court was informed that several Indian students, who are enrolled for higher studies, including MBBS, at Semey Medical University in Kazakhstan are stranded including at the Almaty

AYODHYA/LUCKNOW, MAR 25 (PTI): The Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya was shifted to a temporary new location on Wednesday at a ceremony attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who faced opposition flak for seemingly violating norms meant to beat coronavirus.

The shifting of the idol clears the site to begin construction of a Ram temple.

The idol was placed on a 9.5-kg silver throne at the new structure, where it would remain till the construction of the Ram temple is completed on the site allotted for it by the Supreme Court in a landmark verdict in November.

The rituals involved in the shifting had begun Monday.

T h e y e n d e d e a r ly Wednesday at a ceremony attended by Adityanath and a small group of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Vishwa Hindu Parishad leaders.

The local administration did not allow people to gather on the occasion as a lockdown has been imposed across the country to check the spread of coronavirus.

Randeep Surjewala (File)

ers.”

“Dear PM, need of the hour is to implement forthwith ‘minimum income guarantee scheme”(Nyay) mooted by Rahul ji and Congress. Please transfer Rs 7,500 to every Jan Dhan A/C, PM Kisan A/C & every Pension A/C to tide over nutrition needs of 21 days and give free PDS ration,” he said.

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the Congress had proposed, and promised to implement the Nyay scheme if voted to power.

In his remarks, a day after Modi announced a complete nationwide lockdown for 21 days to contain

Yogi Adityanath shifts the idol of Ramlala from makeshift temple to a new structure near Manas Bhawan, in Ayodhya. (PTI)

The chief minister also offered prayers in the presence of Ram Mandir Trust secretary Champat Rai. He donated Rs 11 lakh in his personal capacity for the construction of the temple.

Opposition parties later criticised Adityanath, saying he had not presented a good example by taking part in the ceremony.

“Yogi is telling people not to go to temples and mosques, and in view of the coronavirus epidemic this is absolutely right. But the chief minister himself is flouting what he is saying,” Samajwadi Party’s state president Naresh Uttam said.

the spread of COVID-19, the Congress leader also said, “we will rise together as a nation & defeat COVID2019. We stand with the lockdown but are deeply disappointed by the lack of coherent strategy or a clear ‘way ahead’ on your part.”

“Please remember, Trying times are true test of leadership. Is government ready to rise up & deliver,” he asked.

“The Congress demands a comprehensive package for daily wagers, MGNREGA workers, factory workers, unorganised workers, fishermen and farm labourers,” Surjewala said. He asked when the doctors, nurses and health workers will have adequate protection and how many isolation beds and ventilators are available in the country and where.

“How will daily wagers, labourers, MGNREGA workers, Factory workers, Unorganised workers, Fishermen, Farmers & Farm Labour sustain for 21 days,” he asked.

officer from the Indian Embassy in Kazakhstan to ensure, inter alia, the welfare, well-being and safety of all such Indian students,” the bench said.

It also directed the nodal officer to expeditiously facilitate, secure and provide these students will all basic amenities and humanitarian assistance.

The court said the details of the nodal officer, including his name and telephone number, be communicated to the Indian students stranded at the Almaty Airport and be also uploaded on website of Indian Embassy at Kazakhstan and on the website of MEA immediately.

The court listed the matter for further hearing on March 28.

Uttar Pradesh Congress spokesperson Amarnath Agarwal said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Adityanath had themselves said people should not go to temples, mosques or gurdwaras, and instead say their prayers at home.

“But the chief minister is himself going against what he has said,” the Congress leaders added.

It would have been better had Adityanath worshipped at home and set an example, he added.

Aam Aadmi Party’s state unit president Sabhajit Singh said responsible people are not following appeals they are making.

DEHRADUN, MAR 25 (PTI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat on Wednesday offered life insurance for those at the front line of the coronavirus threat, including doctors, healthcare professionals, sanitation workers, and media and police personnel.

Announcing this in the Uttarakhand Assembly which met after a long recess here on Wednesday, Rawat said doctors, nurses, sanitation workers, paryavaran mitras, the media and the police were serving people at the risk of their own lives.

Life insurance will be given to all falling into these categories as a gesture of gratitude, he said.

Terming coronavirus as a huge challenge before mankind, he appealed to people to stay at their homes during the 21-day countrywide lockdown.

Asking people to show restraint and will power during the period, the chief minister said social distancing is the only strategy which can help overcome the challenge posed by coronavirus.

business/state

Govt bans export of hydroxycloroquine

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Amid coronavirus outbreak, the government on Wednesday banned export of anti-malarial drug hydroxycloroquine with immediate effect to ensure sufficient availability of the medicine in the domestic market.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General Balram Bhargava had on Monday recommended the use of hydroxychloroquine for treating healthcare workers handling suspected or confirmed coronavirus cases and also the asymptomatic household contacts of the lab-confirmed cases.

The treatment protocol recommended by the ICMRconstituted National Task Force for COVID-19 has been approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DGCI) for restricted use in emergency situations.

In a notification issued on Wednesday, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), an arm of the commerce ministry which deals with export and import-related matters, said, “The export of hydroxycloroquine and formulations made from

hydroxycloroquine is prohibited with immediate effect”.

It, however, said the government will allow export of the medicine on humanitarian grounds on case-to-case basis on the Ministry of External Affairs’ recommendation.

Export will also be permitted from the special economic zones/export oriented units and in cases where the outbound shipment is made to fulfil export obligation under any advance authorisation license issued on or before the date of this notification, which is March 25, 2020.

“Export will be allowed in case of shipments where irrevocable letter of credit has been issued before the date of this notification or in case where full advance payment has been received by the exporter in India against specific shipment, subject to submission of documentary evidence,” DGFT added.

According to some reports, demand for hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, a related compound, have jumped after US President Donald Trump said that these salts were effec-

tive in treating COVID-19.

People are panic buying this medicine.

Over the last few weeks, India has banned exports of host of medical devices, including sanitisers, all types of ventilators and surgical masks.

The government on Tuesday banned export of all sanitisers and ventilators with immediate effect in wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

“Export of all sanitisers...is prohibited, with immediate effect,” the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said in a notification.

It also banned exports of all types of ventilators, including any artificial respiratory apparatus or oxygen therapy apparatus or any other breathing appliance or device.

L a s t we e k , i t h a d banned export of certain ventilators, surgical and disposable masks and textile raw material used for making masks.

There is a shortage of hand sanitisers and face masks in the market amid the coronavirus outbreak as people resorted to panic buying.

Konyak Union declares..

(From p-1) Meanwhile, KU has directed Mon district chamber of commerce to strictly monitor price of essential commodities and avoid any artificial inflation. Any shops found violating the directive, the union warned would face stern action even to the extent of cancellation of trade licence.

KU has also warned against any form of demand/extortion and directed all Naga political leaders and individuals to go back to their respective villages or be confined inside their home/camp. KU has “strictly prohibited” any form of disturbances/extortion within Konyak soil.

Nagaland peaceful on day-1...

(From p-1) was also necessary to ensure the unhindered operations of manufacturing, processing, transportation, distribution, storage, trade/ commerce and logistics related to all services/establishments and commodities required for the delivery of essential services, which have been exempted under the various prohibitory orders.

“In order to ensure that these provisions are seamlessly available at ground level it would be necessary for each State/UT to set-up a 24x7 control room/office with helplines (at state/ district level) to address any grievance or undue problems faced by the providers of goods/ services including during inter-state movement,” the communication said. The ministry said a nodal officer may be appointed in a state to coordinate with the district administration/police in this matter.

The Centre also banned export of anti-malarial drug hydroxycloroquine with immediate effect to ensure sufficient availability of the medicine in the domestic market.

‘Govt monitoring availability of essential commodities in mkt’

Ram Vilas Paswan (File)

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (PTI): Union Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan on Wednesday said the government is monitoring the availability of essential commodities in the market amid nationwide lockdown for next 21 days to check the spread of coronavirus outbreak. Paswan warned manufacturers and traders against profiteering during this period.

The Centre is also in touch with the state governments to ensure that there is no shortage of essential commodities, he said.

“In view of situation emerging from the threat of #Covid19India, the government is keeping an eye on availability of all essential commodities in the market,” Paswan tweeted.

“I appeal to all manufacturers and traders to avoid from profiteering in this situation,” Paswan said in his tweet.

Flipkart ceases operations; Amazon stops new orders NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (IANS): Etailer Flipkart on Wednesday said it has temporarily suspended its operations and services - including grocery items -- as India enters a 21-day lockdown.

Although Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his second address to the nation on Tuesday, said ecommerce platforms are allowed to provide essential goods and services during the 21-day lockdown, Flipkart has decided to halt all orders from March 25 for all three supply chains -- grocery, non-large goods and large items.

“Flipkart has temporarily suspended orders as we assess the possibilities of operating in the lockdown.

We are prioritising the safety of our delivery executives and seeking the support of the local governments and police authorities to meet the needs of our customers as they stay home during this lockdown,”

Rajneesh Kumar, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Flipkart, said in a statement.

The company also posted on its website: “These are difficult times, times like no other. Never before, have communities stayed apart to stay safe! Never before, has been at home meant helping the nations!”

In an internal email sent to employees, Adarsh Menon who is senior vice president at Flipkart wrote that senior executives will “evaluate how to get supply chains back in consultation with government and stakeholders but as of now the platform will not accept any orders”. Ecommerce giant Amazon said that it has prioritized available fulfilment and logistics capacity to serve products that are currently critical for customers such as household staples, packaged food, health care, hygiene, personal safety and other high priority products.

Crossword

No. 9534 Yesterday’s solution No. 9533

Su doku

No. 4153 Yesterday’s solution No. 4152

5

KAKURO

Meanwhile, the Centre on March 23, had allowed states and Union Territories to lift foodgrains for three months in advance from Food Corporation of India (FCI) for distribution through ration shops in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. There are about 75 crore beneficiaries under the Public Distribution System (PDS).

As of now, the government has surplus foodgrains of 435 lakh tonnes, out of which 272.19 lakh tonnes are rice and 162.79 lakh tonnes are wheat, as per the government data.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a complete lockdown across the country for 21 days from Tuesday midnight, asserting that social distancing is the only way out for the country to fight a decisive battle against coronavirus outbreak.

The Centre and state governments have taken measures to ensure that the supply of all essential items continue smoothly, he said, seeking to allay apprehensions among people about availability of food and other essential provisions.

According to Health Ministry data, the number of coronavirus cases has risen to 562.

No. 3179 Yesterday’s solution No. 3178

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

State designates COVID-19 hospitals (From p-1) “There will be no compromise in their treatment and facilities they have been receiving so far. The doctors who have been attending to them will continue to do so but in a different hospital. This will minimise the patients’ risk to the virus, in case of an outbreak,” he assured.

The chief secretary also appreciated the private hospitals for coming forward and offering their assistance.

He divulged that private hospitals had assured not to charge for the ward/ room occupied by the patients.

Not ruling out applying the same method in other districts, he said districts like Mon, Kiphire and Peren had also been identified. He, however, added that this would be taken up as and when the need arose.

“Without compromising on the health services in other districts, we are currently focusing on Dimapur and Kohima. In case of an outbreak, these districts could become the hotpots,” he warned.

Toy claimed that the State had “enough” personal protective equipments (PPE), ventilators and other required medical

Govt tells banks to ready emergency credit lines for SMEs

NEW DELHI, MAR 25 (IANS): With the coronavirus pandemic causing nationwide lockdown and affecting businesses, the government has decided to pitch in with its support for the corporate sector to prevent any liquidity problems for them. The Centre has asked banks to be ready to extend emergency credit lines on easier terms to corporate borrowers so that business activity didn’t suffer on account liquidity squeeze. It has discussed the issue with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The State Bank Of India (SBI) has already come out with an ad hoc loan facility ‘Covid-19 Emergency Credit Line (CECL)’, which is aimed at meeting the temporary liquidity mismatch caused by Covid-19 effects.

Three other public sector banks -- Union Bank, Indian Bank and Bank of India -- have also come out with emergency credit lines to largely support fund needs of SMEs. “More banks will come with such schemes given that small and medium businesses are taking the brunt of lockdowns most and facing a situation where they may have to go for massive cost cutting as well as layoffs,” said a government source.

The SBI emergency credit line will remain operational till June 30. A borrower can get maximum loan of Rs 200 crore or 10 per cent of the existing fundbased working capital limits, by paying fixed 7.25 per cent interest.

The credit line will remain open for a year and repayment starts only after six months in six instalments.

The emergency loan facility is aimed at helping MSME borrowers. The schemes of other three banks are also similar.

essentials.

He said more such equipments were on the way while many more were still with the manufacturing companies due to delay in transportation. He however added that t he State government would ensure that the equipments were delivered.

Asked whether the pandemic had exposed inadequacies of the State’s healthcare system, he remarked that “nobody had faced such a situation in his or her lifetime. This was not the time to throw blame at each other and everyone must take this as a walk-up call.”

After the first detection of COVID-19 case in India, Toy said Nagaland had so far screened (thermal) 30,000-40,000 people.

He said people who had entered Nagaland before the lockdown were advised to self-quarantine at home for 14 days and added that medical teams were constantly monitoring such people kept under observation.

He also acknowledged the services and assistance of different departments, particularly Nagaland Police, for their service.

He mentioned that

District Task Forces (DTF) along with the district administrations and police were monitoring the situation across the State.

Don’t travel, stay where you are: The chief secretary said there were reports of many people, particularly from towns, attempting to travel or go back to their native places/ villages.

Stressing that social distancing was vital to prevent spreading of the virus, he urged the people not to travel but continue remaining where they were till the lockdown was lifted.

Toy said reports were being received of people going on picnic and socializing and warned of taking strict action against those indulging in such activities.

“Lockdown is not a holiday. People must start taking this seriously. Government can only enforce this up to a certain point.

Ultimately it is individuals who have to cooperate,” he said.

With regard to racial profiling and stigmatization of North East people in other states following the outbreak of COVID19 including non-Nagas in some parts of the state, Toy urged all to be “sensitive”.

COVID-19: Zeliang calls for...

(From p-1) He also urged the government to seal all interState and international entry points across the State, including curbing movement of any person into the State even on foot.

He said in this war against COVID-19, participation of every citizen was imminent, but doctors and nurses were in the frontline.

Therefore, he called for providing them protection equipment of high standards.

Mentioning that as per information gathered from various district control rooms till Wednesday protective equipments provided by the government were not sufficient even for the doctors and nurses, Zeliang said many government hospitals and health centres in the State lacked testing kits and thermal scanners, besides facing acute shortage of basic apparatuses like masks, gloves, hand sanitizers, etc.

He reminded the government that most district hospitals lacked dedicated ICU with ventilators to treat patients. Thus, he said it was of paramount importance that the government looked into these issues and made necessary arrangements without further delay. Even if the government could not provide testing kits at the moment, he suggested that at least ICU with ventilators should be provided urgently. Though there was no budgetary provision for emergency procurement of equipments, he advised the government to utilise what was available as the impending situation demanded so.

He explained, “For this to happen, the only way at this point of time is through percentage-cut from available resources which was passed as Vote on Account during the last Budget Session to meet the minimum requirement worked out by various departments.

Such arrangement should be made before the end of the

current financial year.”

As the primary objective was to protect the entire population, he assured that such diversion of funds or percentage-cut from available resources to face the impending challenge would not be condemned by any political party or civil society as long as the sanctioned funds were utilised for the right purpose and at the right time.

He also asked Food & Civil Supplies department to work out a mechanism as to how distribution of essential commodities under the Food Security Act could reach the rural population.

Zeliang denounced the government for announcing accommodation of suspected persons in private properties like Niathu Resort and Cricket Stadium as there was no proper equipment and medical staff in place. Further, he reasoned that such initiatives at private properties could not be made at the expense of public exchequer while rest of the State continued to face shortage of even basic gears and apparatus.

Instead of spending public funds on private properties, he demanded that government hospitals and health centres across the State be first equipped to combat the pandemic. Only after feasible options were exhausted, private properties could be utilised as a last resort and if needed, he added.

Flagging the issue of circulation of unconfirmed reports related to COVID19 in social media, Zeliang appealed to general public to stop circulating such unconfirmed news. He urged the State government to set up a 24x7 control and monitoring centre with professionals from health, information technology, cyber crime, etc, manning it.

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27 dead in Kabul Gurudwara attack

New Delhi/Kabul, Mar 25 (IANS): The Islamic State Khorasan (ISKP) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack on a Gurudwara in central Kabul in which at least 27 members of the Sikh community were killed on Wednesday.

Sources said while one suicide bomber detonated himself at the entrance, three IS terrorists stormed the shrine in the Shorbazar area Wednesday morning. Around 150 people were worshipping in the Gurudwara at the time of the attack.

However, the security forces rescued around 80 worshippers from the Gurudwara. The Sikhs constitute a minuscule minority in Afghanistan.

Afghan security forces killed all three terrorists in a day-long gun-battle after which NATO soldiers helped with the clearance operation. Though initial reports from Kabul suggested that the Ashraf

9

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

Family members cry after an attack in Kabul, Afghanistan, Wednesday. (AP/PTI)

Ghani government had blamed the Pakistanbacked Haqqani network for the terror attack, but the Taliban denied its role.

Violence in Afghanistan continues unabated even as the US and Taliban have signed a peace deal, which entails withdrawal

of the US forces.

India strongly condemned the terror attack and extended condolences to the immediate family members of the deceased and wished speedy recovery to the injured.

In an official statement, the government said,

“India stands ready to extend all possible assistance to the affected families of the Hindu and Sikh community of Afghanistan.”

“Such cowardly attacks on the places of religious worship of the minority community, especially at this time of COVID-19

pandemic, is reflective of the diabolical mindset of the perpetrators and their backers.

“We commend the brave Afghan security forces for their valourous response to the attack and their exemplary courage and dedication to protect the Afghan people and secure the country. India stands in solidarity with the people, the government and the security forces of Afghanistan in their efforts for bringing peace and security to the country.”

Reacting to the terror attack, India’s Housing and Urban Minister and a former diplomat Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday tweeted, “Suicide attack on a Gurudwara Sahib in Kabul needs to be strongly condemned.

These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries and the urgency with which their lives and religious freedom have to be safeguarded.”

COVID-19: WHO terms India’s lockdown ‘comprehensive & robust’ U n i t e d Nat i o n s, M a r 2 5 ( P TI ) : T h e UN has expressed solidarity with India in its fight against coronavirus, with a top official at the world body’s health agency praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 21-day nationwide lockdown as a “comprehensive and robust” response to the raging COVID-19 pendamic.

Globally, the death toll from the coronavirus has risen to 18,915 with more than 422,900 cases reported in over 165 countries and territories, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

The number of coronavirus cases in India stood at 562 on Wednesday with nine COVID-19 deaths reported so far, according to Health Ministry data.

In an attempt to stem the spread of coronavirus in India, Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday announced a nationwide lockdown for three weeks.

“United Nations

stands in solidarity with India in its fight against COVID-19,” said a video message tweeted by United Nations News on Tuesday, the UN’s multimedia news service.

The video also took note of the ‘Janta Curfew’ observed across India on Sunday, when the country’s 1.3 billion citizens stayed at home from 7 am to 9 pm in an effort to practise social distancing.

Heeding to a call by Modi, people came out on their balconies, windows and courtyards to applaud the selfless work of medical professionals on the frontlines in the fight against COVID-19.

The normally bustling streets across India wore a deserted look throughout the day as people participated in the curfew. The UN News video showed footage of empty roads and urban spaces on Sunday, just two days before Modi announced the nationwide lockdown for three weeks.

“India is on a 21-day lockdown to try and prevent the COVID-19 pandemic from taking hold.

The @UN health agency @WHO urged the Gov to take ‘aggressive action’,” UN News tweeted.

WHO Representative to India Henk Bekedam praised the country’s response to the pandemic, describing it as “comprehensive and robust”. “ M a s s ive e f f o r t s have been made towards prevention and containing the spread, including strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, contact tracing and isolation and risk communications,” Bekedam said. He said the Prime Minister’s call for social distancing had received widespread community support across the country.

“It is vital that we come together in solidarity and help in breaking the chain of transmission and flattening the curve,” he said.

Spain overtakes China Bus services resumes in Wuhan Iran president warns of tough new measures against coronavirus virus toll with 3,434 deaths

Hassan Rouhani

to the countryside.

“There has been a long debate within the National Committee for Fighting the Coronavirus about how to strengthen the measures we have taken,” Rouhani said in televised comments to the cabinet. “We need to step up those measures,” he said, adding that the health ministry had “presented the committee with a plan” that could be “approved and published” during the day.

“It may create problems

for people’s travel plans and require that people return home early,” the president said. “It could stop the next wave of journeys. People have to realise that these are difficult decisions that are being taken to protect people’s lives. “But we have no choice, because the lives of Iranians are important to us.” Rouhani said the new measures would be adopted for 15 days and would be “implemented thoroughly until Saturday, April 4,” the day when children normally return to school after the holiday. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said on Tuesday that a record 1,762 new coronavirus cases had been confirmed in Iran over the past 24 hours, taking the total so far to 24,811.

He announced 122 new deaths from the virus, raising the official toll to 1,934, the worst in the world after Italy, China and Spain.

Britain’s Prince Charles tests positive for coronavirus; self isolating L o n d o n, M a r 2 5 (PTI): Britain’s Prince Charles has tested positive for the novel coronavirus after he displayed “mild symptoms” and is now selfisolating, his office said on Wednesday.

The 71-year-old heir to the British throne is selfisolating in Scotland with wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, who has tested negative for the deadly virus which has claimed 422 lives in the UK. “The Prince of Wales has tested positive for coronavirus,” the Clarence House statement read.

“He has been displaying mild symptoms but otherwise remains in good health and has been working from home throughout the last few days as usual,” it notes.

In keeping with social distancing advice during the pandemic, Charles has been noticeably using ‘namaste’ as a greeting rather than a handshake when seen in public over the last few weeks, including during an event to mark Commonwealth Day on March 9 at Marlborough House in London.

His wife Camilla, 72, was seek wearing long black gloves during the same event.

“The Duchess of Cornwall has also been tested but does not have the virus. In accordance with government and medical advice, the Prince and

Prince Charles

the Duchess are now selfisolating at home in Scotland,” Clarence House said.

The Royals were tested on Monday after they had flown out to Scotland in a jet on Sunday and the royal couple have remained there since then.

The statement adds: “The tests were carried out by the NHS (National Health Service) in Aberdeenshire where they met the criteria required for testing.

“It is not possible to ascertain from whom the Prince caught the virus owing to the high number of engagements he carried out in his public role during recent weeks.”

Charles last met 93year-old Queen Elizabeth II “briefly” on March 12, who has been based at Winor Castle for nearly a week now.

“Her Majesty the Queen remains in good

health and is following appropriate advice,” Buckingham Palace said.

Prince Charles’ last public event was a reception and dinner in aid of the Australian bushfire relief effort on March 12, which took place at Mansion House in London.

Earlier that day, he had attended an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace in London, where he also greeted recipients with a ‘namaste’ due to concerns building around the spread of the pandemic. This comes as Britain entered its second day of a national lockdown. Police are patrolling the streets to enforce the lockdown.

According to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker, there are 428,405 confirmed cases across the world, 19,120 deaths.

In the UK, the number of confirmed cases are 8,167 and the death toll increased by 87 to 422.

Madrid, Mar 25 (AFP): Spain’s coronavirus death toll overtook that of China on Wednesday, rising to 3,434 after 738 people died over the past 24 hours, the government said.

Across the world, only Italy now has a higher death toll than that of Spain. In China, where the virus emerged late last year, 3,281 people have died.

The spiralling number of deaths came as Spain entered the 11th day of an unprecedented lockdown to try and rein in the COVID19 epidemic that has now infected 47,610 people, the health ministry said.

As the authorities stepped up testing, the number of cases showed a 20 per cent increase on the figures for Tuesday, while the death toll showed a 27 per cent rise over the same period.

Despite the national lockdown imposed on March 14, which is to be extended until April 11, both deaths and infections have continued to mount, with

officials warning this week would be particularly bad.

“We are approaching the peak,” the ministry’s emergencies coordinator Fernando Simon said in announcing the figures.

Health authorities are hoping it will soon become clear whether the lockdown is having the desired effect.

The Madrid region has suffered the brunt of the epidemic with 14,597 infections -- just under a third of the total -- and 1,825 deaths, or 53 per cent of the national figure. With hospitals on the brink of collapse from the surge in patients, troops have set up a massive field hospital in Madrid’s vast IFEMA exhibition centre which currently has 1,500 beds but which could be expanded to take in up to 5,500 people -- making it the largest hospital in Spain.

And with the city’s funeral services overwhelmed, officials have commandeered the Palacio de Hielo ice skating rink to serve as a temporary morgue.

A man gets out of a bus in Wuhan in China’s central Hubei province on March 25. (AFP)

mainland on Tuesday.

Forty seven new imported COVID-19 cases were reported in the country on Tuesday, taking the total of such cases to 474, it said.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that majority of the imported cases are the Chinese nationals returning from abroad.

Of the 427 confirmed imported cases reported on March 23, 380 are Chinese and the rest 47 are foreign nationals. Also on Tuesday,

four deaths and 33 new suspected cases were reported on the mainland with three of the deaths reported in Hubei.

The overall confirmed cases on the mainland reached 81,218 by the end of Tuesday. This included 3,281 people who died of the disease, 4,287 patients still being treated and 73,650 patients discharged after recovery, the NHC said. It said 134 people were still suspected of being infected with the virus.

Travellers to New York asked to self-isolate N e w Yo r k , M a r 25 (IANS): The Donald Trump administrations coronavirus task force is urging anyone who has been in the New York area, Americas “high risk” COVID-19 hotspot, to self isolate for 14 days to ensure that the virus does find new seeding spots in the community.

The coronavirus pandemic has killed 131 people in New York, as per latest data from the Johns Hopkins real time tracker.

“About 56 per cent of

all the cases in the United States are coming out of that metro area and 60 per cent of all the new cases are coming out of the New York area,” Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus task force co-ordinator, said Tuesday.

New York is reporting an infection rate of 1 in 1000 compared to around 0.2 per cent per 1,000 in the rest of the states, US Vice President Mike Pence said at the same briefing.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo described

the New York data as “troubling”.

“We had projected a need for 110,000 hospital beds at the apex of this virus. The rate of infection is increasing and the curve has increased. The new projections show we may need 1,40,000 beds,” he said Tuesday.

Birx said that data for new cases are rising in New York’s Long Island area, suggesting that these are people who may have left the New York area.

“Over the last few days,

OFFICE OF THE

RILAN VILLAGE STUDENTS’ UNION DIMAPUR-797112, NAGALAND

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Rilan Village Students’ Union (RVSU) would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone who have supported us through financially, materially, physically and prayer during the recently concluded Silver Jubilee held on 10th -11th March 2020, at Rilan Village Ground. The invaluable efforts and contributions of many individuals and groups have made this possible, for which the Union is extremely grateful and wishes to acknowledge.

1. Shri. Mhathung Yanthan, Hon’ble Advisor, 18. Shri. Longshithung Ezung, Member Secy., NSLSA Horticulture & Border Affairs, Govt. of Nagaland.

19. Shri. Mhademo Kithan.

2. Shri. Albert Ezung, Administrator, DMC. 20. Shri. Khiungmong Yim. 3. Shri. N. Zubenthung Ngullie, SDO (C) Dimapur 21. Er. Thungbemo Ezung.

4. Shri. Moatoshi Longkumer, Member, Nagaland 22. Shri. Manthungo Ngullie.

Legislative Assembly.

23. Shri. Tsenchamo Y Ovung, Advocate.

5. Shri. Y. L. Jami, IAS (Retd) Chairman, Lotha Hoho 24. Shri. Benrithung Ngullie.

Dimapur.

25. Er. Sutemo Kikon.

26. Shri. Viliebie Meru 6. Shri. Nzanbemo Humtsoe, Proprietor, Humtsoe Construction.

27. Mr. Rhondemo Ngullie.

7. Mrs. Zubeni L. Imchen, Proprietress, Puma Showroom. 28. Mrs. Loyiv Kikon.

8. Dimapur Lotha Students’ Union.

29. Shri. K. Longro Odyuo.

9. Senjum Village Council.

30. Mrs. Ajano Paton.

31. Shri. Ajanthung Shitiri.

10. LSU, Dimapur Govt. College.

11. Kacharigaon (Phevima) Students’ Union.

32. Shri. Longtsuthung Kikon.

12. Indisen Lanur Telongjem, Dimapur.

33. Shri. Sosang Jamir.

13. Rilan Village Council.

34. Mrs. Yanthungbeni Shitiri.

14. Rilan Eloe Ekhung.

35. Shri. Eyingbemo Ovung.

36. Shri. V. Abemo Odyuo.

15. Rilan Village Youth Organisation.

16. Shri. Orenthung Ngullie, Proprietor, NTH. 37. Shri. Thungyamo Shitiri.

17. Shri. Longasen Ezung. SDO (Civil) Kohima.

38. Shri. Ngangshithung Merry.

We thank all individuals, SHGs and all Rilan Villagers for their contributions and support extended for the success of the jubilee. It is our sincere prayer that our God Almighty bless you abundantly.

LIMHAJAN KIKON RALANTHUNG NGULLIE THECHANO KITHAN Gen Secy., RVSU Convenor, Planning Committee President, RVSU

DP-2191

Tehran, Mar 25 (AFP): Iran’s president warned that his government was poised to introduce tough new measures against the coronavirus on Wednesday as the death toll from one of the world’s deadliest outbreaks neared 2,000.

President Hassan Rouhani said that the new measures, which could be adopted as soon as Wednesday evening, included Iran’s first restrictions on movement to try to stem the spread of the virus and were likely to be “difficult” for the public.

So far, Iran has resisted imposing any lockdown, choosing instead to rely on verbal appeals for people to stay home. But those have been widely ignored.

Hundreds of thousands of Iranians took to the roads as usual last weekend to spend the two-week Persian New Year holiday with family despite fears of the disease spreading from the big cities

B e i j i n g / Wu h a n , Mar 25 (PTI): Wuhan, the epicentre of the novel coronavirus pandemic, on Wednesday resumed bus services within the city for the first time since the nineweek lockdown even as 47 new imported cases were reported from the country, threatening a second wave of infections. China on Tuesday decided to lift the three-month lockdown on more than 56 million people in the central Hubei province.

However, the prolonged lockdown of Hubei’s capital Wuhan will end on April 8, lifting the mass quarantine over the city with a population of over 11 million.

While Hubei and Wuhan has not reported any new COVID-19 case, four people died in the city taking the death toll in China to 3,281, the National Health Commission (NHC) said.

China on Wednesday said that no new domestically transmitted case was reported on the Chinese

because of the rate of the number of cases, you may have been exposed before you left,” Birx explained.

“The idea about self isolating for two weeks will be very important because we don’t want that to be another seeding point to the

rest of the country wherever they go,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top infectious diseases expert on the Trump task force.

Florida became the first state to require people coming from New York to self-quarantine for 14 days.

OFFICE OF THE

NIHOTO VILLAGE COUNCIL B.P.O. Kuhuboto Dist. Dimapur - 797112 : Nagaland Govt. Regd. No. GAB-5/29/78 (Vol-IV)

INFORMATION

This is for the information of the general mass living in Nihoto as well as living outside of Nihoto Village that due to the current prevailing situation i.e Covid-19, no individual/ persons shall be allowed to travel in or out within the Nihoto Village Jurisdiction.

This order shall come into immediate effect i.e 25-03-2020 and shall remain effective until the matter is resolved and curfew in lifted by the Government of India.

Any individual found violating this circular shall be penalized as per the Nihoto Village Council Law. Chairman Nihoto Village Council Dimapur : Nagaland DP-2185 OFFICE OF THE

NYIRO RANGE PUBLIC ORGANISATION HQ: NYIRO DISTRICT: WOKHA

FELICITATION

With immense pride and honor, the Nyiro Range Public Organisation (NRPO) extends our heartiest congratulations to the following members for their achievements: 1. Mrs. Bensi Keppen Ezung, W/o Mr. Chumben Ezung of N. Longidang Village for securing the post of SDO (Civil Engg.) under NPWD through NPSC. 2. Ms. Lotsani T Ezung, D/o Mr. Thungchio Ezung of Yimkha Village for securing the post of Agriculture Inspector through NPSC. 3. Mr. Lanrhonthung Ezung, S/o of Mr. C Nrio Ezung of N. Longidang Village for securing the post of Agriculture Inspector through NPSC. The NRPO further wishes them the best in their future endeavors.

L. Yantsowo Lotha President NRPO

Janponthung Ngullie Gen. Secretary NRPO DP-2187

Infotainment

10

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

Jackson Browne says he’s Musician Cy Tucker dies from COVID-19 Idris Elba slams claims that stars tested positive for coronavirus M are paid to say they have COVID-19

I

dris Elba has had enough. The 47-yearold actor recently announced that he had tested positive for coronavirus, and is now slamming the conspiracy theory claiming that celebrities have been paid to say they’ve been infected by the virus.

Elba took to Instagram Live to shut down such rumors.

“I think the debate about rich and poor and who’s getting it and who’s not, I think, is not a healthy debate,” the actor said, per Entertainment Tonight.

“It’s like, I got a test but I also got COVID. Does that make me preferential? I don’t understand that.”

Elba said that people are engaging in “testshaming,” which he called “counterproductive.”

He continued: “And also this idea that someone like myself is gonna be paid to say ‘I’ve got coronavirus,’ that’s absolute bulls--t.

Such s-----dness.”

“People wanna spread that as if it’s news. That’s s----d,” Elba continued.

“It’s the quickest way to get people sick because there’s

no benefit to me and [wife] Sabrina sitting here saying we’ve got it or we ain’t got it. I don’t even understand the logic of that.”

The “Cats” star stressed that he’s “not an actor right now” amid his battle with the virus.

“I’m just a human being and I just happen to be in the public eye,” Elba said. “So I want people to understand that this is very real. I don’t feel like I’m privileged because I got a test because I actually contracted it.”

Elba is among a growing number of stars who have announced coronavirus diagnoses.

Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Kristofer Hivju and Colton Underwood are among the other celebrities currently fighting the virus. Elba’s wife, Sabrina Dhowre Elba, also recently revealed that she had been diagnosed with the virus after choosing to isolate with her husband.

(FoxNews)

S

inger-songwriter Jackson Browne says he has tested positive for coronavirus. Browne, 71, best known for the 1977 song “Running on Empty,” revealed his medical condition to Rolling Stone magazine. He said he started feeling ill in recent weeks and got tested after he developed a cough and a slight fever.

He has since been recuperating at his home in Los Angeles.

“My symptoms are really pretty mild, so I don’t require any kind of medication and certainly not hospitalization or anything like that,” he told the magazine. Browne said he thinks he may have caught the virus during a trip to New York City for the recent Love Rocks NYC benefit concert at the Beacon The-

Shawn Mendes donates $175,000 to combat coronavirus

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inger Shawn Mendes has donated $175,000 to help pediatric care in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Earlier this week, the Shawn Mendes Foundation made a donation to the SickKids Foundation.

The money will assist in the purchase of equipment and

supplies for coronavirus preparedness for the community at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Ontario, reports variety. com.

“Through The Shawn Mendes Foundation, we have been working to find ways to best support the COVID-19 crisis,” Mendes

said, adding: “By making this donation to SickKids, we hope to help provide support in the urgent screening and prevention of COVID19 for their patients and the surrounding community of Toronto. For the next month, we will be directing all donations to The Shawn Mendes Foundation to go

towards additional efforts by SickKids, as well as efforts being made internationally by the World Health Organization COVID-19 Response Fund.”

SickKids is a global leader in pediatric health dedicated to ensuring hospitals provide the best possible care for children and families.

Mendes has been vocal about the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, urging the music community to stay home and practice social distancing.

On March 20, the singer-songwriter hosted a livestream with Camila Cabello as part of the “Together at Home” series presented

by Global Citizen in support of the World Health Organization’s Solidarity Response Fund. “We love you so much and we care about everyone,” Mendes said while signing off from his stream.

“Again, I just want to say be patient with yourself.

It’s just craziness, and give yourself the patience and love you deserve right now,” he added.

(IANS)

ater in Manhattan. He told Rolling Stone that “several people” linked to the show have also tested positive but didn’t identify them. “Now, I wish I hadn’t gone to New York and done this benefit,” he said. “I think to myself, ‘How much simpler would it have been had I just called in and said, ‘No, I’m not going to travel on a cross-country flight and spend two days in New York with all these people that are singing all over the country.’”

Browne said he has been at home for about 10 days. “I feel lucky that I’m not really badly affected. I guess I’ve got a really strong immune system,” he said.

I n M o n d a y, D r.

Deborah Birx, White House coronavirus response coordinator, told reporters that the New York City metro area has an infection rate of 1 in 1,000 for coronavirus, the highest in the nation. She said social distancing and self-isolation are particularly important for people in the New York area, or for those who’ve recently traveled to the New York area.

(FoxNews)

usician Cy Tucker, 76, who previously played with The Beatles, has passed from coronavirus.

The Liverpool Echo reports that the rocker fell ill with COVID-1 symptoms a week ago before dying at the Royal Liverpool Hospital on Monday, reports dailymail.co.uk.

He is believed to be the first person to die of the fatal virus in Liverpool. It was confirmed that he had previously suffered with ill health, including diabetes and heart problems, and due to his age was considered to be at high risk.

Speaking to the portal, Tucker’s family said: “As a family we are devastated at the sudden loss of our husband, father-in-law, granddad, brother and friend who touched so many lives through music.

“To the city of Liverpool he was Cy Tucker, but to us he was our world. He forever doted on his family, especially his wife, children and grandchildren, who he always showered with affection...

“Despite the pain and sadness, we have been com-

Asterix co-creator Albert Uderzo dies aged 92

Britney Spears echoes calls for strikes and redistribution of wealth in Instagram post

A

lbert Uderzo, who drew the Asterix comic books, has died at the age of 92.

He created the famous stories - about the adventures of Gaulish warriors fighting the Roman Empire - with his friend René Goscinny in 1959. As well as illustrating the series, Urderzo took over the writing following Goscinny's death in 1977.

The books have sold 370 million copies worldwide, in dozens of languages, and several stories have been turned into cartoons and feature films.

"Albert Uderzo died in his sleep at his home in Neuilly, after a heart attack that was not linked to the coronavirus," his son-in-law Bernard de Choisy told the AFP news agency.

(BBC)

forted by the endless amount of messages we have received from those who watched him perform in many of Liverpool’s pubs and clubs for over 60 years.

“Performing on stage, be it big or small, was his great passion and he would never be afraid to get up and sing, even on family holidays.”

Tucker was famously

part of the “Merseybeat scene”, where he rubbed shoulders with a host of the most iconic stars to come out of the northern city.

He played gigs and performed in clubs around Liver pool up until his death. In the Sixties, he played alongside the Beatles with the band Earl Preston and the TTs. (IANS)

B

ritney Spears has echoed calls for a strike and the redistribution of wealth in a post on Instagram.

The pop star shared a graphic with a quote from writer Mimi Zhu on her Instagram page yesterday (March 24).

The post, which Zhu had originally shared on her own account, said: “During this time of isolation, we need connection now more than ever. Call your loved ones, write virtual love letters. Technologies like virtual communication, streaming and broadcasting are part of our community collaboration.

“We will learn to kiss and hold each other through the waves of the web. We will feed each other, re-destribute [sic] wealth, strike. We will understand our own importance from the places we must stay. Communion moves beyond walls. We can still be together.”

Resharing the post, Spears highlighted the

phrase “Communion moves beyond walls” in her caption.

“Yesssss queen of wealth re-distribution,” one fan commented on the post. Others asked the pop star to release a new song to help them through these times or if they could FaceTime with Spears.

Last week, Spears used her Instagram account to hit out at “bullies” who post “mean comments” on her page. “I’ve read a lot of things online of people criticising my posts… saying I post the same 15

pictures with the same red background and wearing the same white bathing suit,” she wrote.

“Reading all of the mean comments really hurts my feelings …. and I wanted to share because you really shouldn’t be saying all of these mean things to someone you don’t even know .… this goes for bullying anyone really.”

She added: “Hard times like we are currently living through should really teach us to be nice to one another.”

(NME)

‘Wonder Woman 1984’ release pushed to August 14

DO’S

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ture ahead. Where we can share the power of cinema together again. Excited to re-date our WW84 film to August 14, 2020. I hope everyone is safe. Sending my love to you all,” she wrote.

In the sequel of the megahit 2017 DC film, Gadot will be back as Wonder Woman with edgier action for a new battle with new villains. The Warner Bros film, directed by Patty Jenkins, comes with the tag line “A new era of wonder begins”.

Jenkins is also praying for things to get better for all.

“We made ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ for the big

screen and I believe in the power of cinema. In these terrible times, when theater owners are struggling as so many are, we are excited to re-date our film to August 14th 2020 in a theater near you, and pray for better times for all by then,” Jenkins posted.

Along with “Wonder Woman 1984”, Warner Bros. has also indefinitely pulled “In the Heights”, an adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical that was due out June 26, and “Scoob” -- an animated film based on “ScoobyDoo” characters, set for May 15, reports variety. com.

(IANS)

Maintain at least 1 metre apart as social and physical distancing

Don’t visit crowded or public places

Work from home and avoid meetings, classes, tutorials, workshops, etc., as far as possible

Don’t attend Non-essential social, commercial, religious, cultural, sporting events, etc

Postpone all social, cultural or private events & functions. Keep number of guests minimal if social events cannnot be postponed or avoided

Don’t shake hands and hug as matter of greeting

Stay home, Stay safe

Don’t travel unnecessarily

If you feel unwell (Cough, fever or difficulty in breathing), avoid exposure to others and immediately call the helpline numbers

DC-356

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ans will have to wait a while longer for Gal Gadots return to the big screen as Wonder Woman, in the wake of the global coronavirus pandemic. The release of “Wonder Woman 1984” has been pushed to August.

The film, which was scheduled to open on June 5, will now release on August 14.

Gadot took to social media to share a new poster along with the news of the date shift. The actress says she is hoping for ‘a brighter future’.

“In these dark and scary times, I am looking forward to a brighter fu-

DON’TS

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sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

Kohli & co handed indoor workout routines

All the players, irrespective of formats, have been given fitness routines which they are to follow .

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): With the government calling for a lockdown to fight the coronavirus outbreak, the Indian cricketers are all home and spending time with their families.

But strength and conditioning coach Nick Webb in consultation with physio Nitin Patel has customised routines for Virat Kohli and boys to ensure they stay in top shape despite the pandemic induced break.

Speaking to IANS, sources in the team management said that the duo of Webb and Patel have made player specific routines for all the contracted players to ensure that they can continue to stay in shape even as the country fights the coronavirus outbreak.

“All the players, irrespective of whether they play red-ball cricket or white-ball cricket or all formats have been given fitness

routines which they are to follow and give updates to Webb and Patel from time to time. The routines have been created keeping in mind the demands of the players. So, for example, a bowler will has been given exercises which work to make his core and lower body strong. Similarly, a batsman has been given exercises which also work on his shoulders and wrists,” the source explained.

The source further added that the routines have been made keeping in mind the workout patterns of the players. “ S o, f o r ex a m p l e, someone like a Kohli loves to train with weights as well.

So, his routine would have weights involved like the clean and jerk and deadlifts and other exercises. While another player might be more comfortable doing free-hand exercises, so in

that case, he has been given more free weight functional training options,” the source pointed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown in the country to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

This has put the fate of the Indian Premier League also hanging in the balance.

While the BCCI is confident that they can pull off the league even if it starts from the first week of May, an important area of concern will be the entry of the foreign players as visa restrictions need to be removed first.

The Sports Ministry has made it clear that the fate of the 13th edition of the IPL can be decided only after the government comes out with a fresh advisory after April 15, keeping in mind the situation with regards to the coronavirus outbreak.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju reiterated that while it is the BCCI which decides on cricketing matters, the pandemic is something which has a direct effect on the loves of the citizens of the country.

11 Bundesliga set COVID-19: Messi donates 1m to be suspended euros to Barcelona hospital till April 30 Barcelona, Mar 25 (COVID -19) by launching

Frankfurt, Mar 25 (IANS): German football league Bundesliga is all set to be suspended till April 30 amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“The Executive Committee is aware that all scenarios and options for action also depend on external factors, over which the DFL and clubs have no or only limited influence, including the further spread of the virus and political assessments of the situation,” the Deutsche Football League (DFL) said in a statement.

“In this light, the Executive Committee will recommend towards the Ordinary Assembly a further suspension of match operations in the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 until at least 30 April,” it added.

On March 16, it was decided to postpone Bundesliga games until April 2 but in line with most of the rest of Europe’s top leagues, that date has been pushed back amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.

(IANS): Argentina football great Lionel Messi has donated one million euros to a hospital in Barcelona to help combat the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

According to a report in goal.com, Messi made the donation to Hospital Clinic, a public hospital in Barcelona with the hospital confirming about the same on their official Twitter handle.

Messi’s former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has also given one million euros towards the purchase and production of medical supplies and equipment with another Barcelona-based campaign.

Star Portugal footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and agent Jorge Mendes have also donated one million euros to fund intensive care units in hospitals in Lisbon and Porto. Messi has been picked by FIFA along with 28 past and present football icons to spread an awareness campaign to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO) have teamed up to combat the coronavirus

a new awareness campaign as football calls on all people around the world to follow five key steps to stop the spread of the disease.

“FIFA and its President Gianni Infantino have been actively involved in passing the message against this pandemic since the very beginning,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the virtual launch of the campaign at WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

“Be it through campaigns or funding, FIFA has stood up to the coronavirus, and I am delighted that world football is supporting WHO to kick out the coronavirus. I have no doubt with this type of support that together we will win,” he said in a FIFA release.

The 28 players, who are involved in the video campaign to be published in 13 languages, include the likes of India captain Sunil Chhetri and World Cup winners like German Philip Lahm, Spain’s Iker Casillas and Spanish defender Carles Puyol.

Be extra cautious in supermarkets: Ashley advises people Pant could do with a mind coach: Hogg

Inter Milan midfielder Ashley Young.

Milan, Mar 25 (IANS): Inter Milan midfielder Ashley Young has asked people to always wear gloves in the supermarket which he feels is the main risk area as the country -- worst hit by the deadly coronavirus -- struggles to get back on its feet.

Former Manchester United captain Young plies his trade for Inter in the

heart of Europe’s worstaffected region with more than 6,000 reported dead in Italy overall.

Young said he wanted to share his thoughts “given I’m currently living in Italy, the epicentre of the virus”.

“Realistically a supermarket is now your main risk at spreading this virus and even catching it. Speaking with family and friends

at home it sounds like going to get food is just crazy. Remember, lockdown means lockdown!

“In Italy going to the supermarket is surprisingly calm... no fights over food, no stripped shelves and most certainly no abusing staff members for limiting food or any reason at all!

And in almost every case it’s usually just one person

Olympics postponement: Indian hockey teams determined to move forward Bengaluru, Mar 25 (IANS): A day after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games due to the growing concerns around the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian men’s and women’s hockey team captains expressed their disappointment but vowed to continue to stay committed to their goals.

“We had just finished the day’s evening session when chief coach Graham Reid informed us about the postponement of the Olympic Games. Though, somewhere at the back of our minds we anticipated this could happen considering the impact COVID-19 has made across the globe, we had never let it affect our training or the intensity needed in every session,” said men’s team skipper Manpreet Singh.

The Indian men’s and women’s hockey teams have shaped up well over the course of the last year, winning big competitions such as the FIH Series Finals and the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers in front of the home crowd in November last year.

The men’s team made a fine start to the season this year with fantastic outing in the FIH Hockey Pro League while the women’s team was stoked after their tour to New Zealand earK Y M C

lier this year. There is a sense of disappointment in the Indian camp due to the postponement of the Olympic Games, but they are motivated to continue to put in the hard yards for the quadrennial event next year.

“I think the news is yet to sink in for us. We were mentally gearing up for our first match on 25th July 2020, so the disappointment is surely there but it is important for us to now look at the positives. Over the past ten months, we have grown as a team under Chief Coach Graham Reid and I believe we will only continue to build on our form under him in the next one year. Our motivation has not been affected by this announcement.

“As a team, we will continue to remain committed to our goal of becoming a better side and bring back the glory days for hockey in India,” added the midfielder further appealing to all Indian hockey fans to stay safe.

“On behalf of the entire team, I would urge all hockey fans to please follow the lockdown and stay safe. While you are indoor, try and do basic workouts to keep yourself fit. It’s important to stay healthy both mentally and physically,” Manpreet said.

Expressing her team’s disappointment over the announcement, women’s

skipper Rani emphasised that her side will utilise the next one year to hone their skills further ahead of the Olympic Games in 2021.

“We were already in a meeting when chief coach Sjoerd Marijne received the news and broke it to us on Tuesday evening. Personally, I was very disappointed because the team was in good rhythm to do well at the Tokyo Olympics. But if you see our team’s performance in the past two years in specific, we have grown from strength to strength, challenging every top team in the world. We are looking at this postponement as a positive to continue to work hard and take our game to the next level” Rani said.

The striker emphasised that it’s important for the team to maintain the same focus over the next year. “It is important for the team to remain focused and continue to keep up the intensity.

This one year postponement also gives us more time with analytical coach Janneke Schopman who has been a fantastic addition to the support staff and her experience as an Olympic Gold Medallist is very inspiring for us.

Both Sjoerd and Janneke’s combination is very effective and we are confident of moving up the ladder under their guidance,” Rani added.

shopping for a household!

“Queuing to go into supermarket is standard, but not because it’s for stockpiling or greed. Supermarkets have limited the number of people entering at any time so it’s never over-crowded! So wait and be patient to go in if your supermarket is doing this.

“Always use gloves from moment you get out of your car! You don’t want to touch trolleys that other hands have been on. Keep the gloves on until you are getting back in the car.

“Use a face mask or scarf to keep your nose and mouth covered.

“Always keep your distance at the till. Keep the trolley behind you when you unpack at the till as it stops people from being able to to get too close.

“Don’t unpack your shopping right on top of somebody else’s, make a gap between theirs and yours so none of your shop-

ping touches theirs. Here we can’t put our groceries on the belt until the person in front has finished paying,” he wrote in a series of tweets. “ T h i s m ay s o u n d harsh but treat everybody that’s not in your household as if they have the virus,” he said. “You just don’t know!

“Most importantly, just stay safe! This is what we are doing here, it’s not an overreaction, it’s staying safe. And just remember others should be looking at you in this way as well.

It’s not horrible, it’s a way of keeping your distance to ultimately help save lives,” he added.

The coronavirus pandemic has claimed 6,820 lives in Italy as of Tuesday with the cumulative total number of confirmed cases nearing 70,000, according to new data released by the Civil Protection Department.

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): Former Australian bowler Brad Hogg feels that Rishabh Pant hasan enormous amount of talent and he can overcome his troubles with a mental trainer.

Pant’s poor run of form has led to him losing his place in the limited-overs team to K.L. Rahul. While he played for the Indian Test team against New Zealand, there were widespread calls for Wriddhiman Saha to be played instead of him.

Pant managed scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4 in the series which India lost 0-2 to the Black Caps. Hogg hosted an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where he was asked if Pant could become one of the best wicketkeeper-batsmen in the world.

“Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer,” said Hogg.

“His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a

mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him.”

Earlier Hogg’s former teammate Adam Gilchrist had advised Pant that he shouldn’t try to be the next M.S. Dhoni and instead should work on improving his own game and being the best version of himself.

Ever since Pant replaced Dhoni in the limitedovers circuit, he has been criticised by many, be it for his batting, wicket-keeping

IN MEMORIAM

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

"For to me, to live in Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21

skills or be his role when it comes to reviews.

However, Gilchrist believes the Indian fans should avoid comparing Pant with Dhoni. “I’m not big on comparisons, like I have said before. I think Indians fans shouldn’t be trying to compare him to Dhoni. Dhoni has set such a high benchmark. One day someone might match it but it is probably unlikely,” Gilchrist had said last year in November.

Late Mr. Phukheto Achumi (1923 – 26th March, 2019)

1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY One year has passed without your presence. And the void will never be filled. But your prayer will surround us eternally. you are dearly missed by all of us, Ipu. Your special memories will always be with us forever in our hearts.

Loving Wife, Children, In-laws, Grandchildren and Great Grand Children K-854

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ECCLESIASTES 12:7 “ And the dust returns to the Earth as it was, And the Spirit returns to God who gave it. ”

09-12-1978 – 22-03-2020 We, the bereaved family members of Late VIKETOUKHOYAVIO (ATOULIE) would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to all who came and supported us physically, financially, morally, and through prayer during his illness till his last breath.

We would further like to extend our deepest gratitude to : 1. Kiruphema Baptist Church 2. Kiruphema Basa Village Council 3. Kiruphema Youth Organisation 4. Noune Kro-u, Kiruphema 5. Bethel Hospital Doctors and Nurses, Kohima 6. Western Angami Village Council Chairman Krotho 7. Western Angami ‘D’ Group Sports Association 8. Sechü Zubza Village Council 9. Sechü Zubza Youth Organisation 10. Mengujuma Village Council 11. Western Angami Prayer Centre 12. Mezoma Prayer Centre 13. Kelhouneizo Yhome, Former ASU President & Colleagues 14. GHS Kiruphema 15. Friends and Well Wishers We deeply regret our inability to thank each one of you individually but it is our humble prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly in return.

K-855

Loving father, wife, children and family members

BORN IN 1929 DIED ON 19:03:2020

W

e, the bereaved family members of Lt. Heyito Achumi would like to acknowledge and express our deepest appreciation to every individual, churches, ogranizations, relatives and well-wishers who travelled from near and far to stand by us and share our pain during our bereavement.

We would like to convey our special thanks to ; 1. Süghüna Baptist Church 2. Sumi Community, Süghüna 3. STH, Süghüna 4. Sumi Students Union, Süghüna 5. Valley View SBC 6. United North Block (B) Fellowship 7. UNB Youth Ministry 8. STH United North Block (B) 9. Ustomi Baptist Church 10. Surumi Community, Dimapur 11. Nagaland Two Wheeler Taxi Asso. Dimapur 12. Nikos Hospital, Dimapur We are immensely touched by the immeasurable love, care, concern, prayer and support rendered to us in every possible way.

Loving, Children, Sons-in-Law, Grand Children, Great Grand Children DP-2188 K Y M C

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020

Afridi earns Harbhajan’s ‘Tokyo 2020- celebration of humanity’ COVID-19: praise for ‘great work for humanity’

New Delhi/ PARIS, Mar 25 (IANS): The International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach admitted that an ideal solution may not be available for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In an address to athletes, Bach however said that this is a chance for the Olympics to be “a celebration of humanity after having overcome this unprecedented crisis of the coronavirus”.

Bach said that in his telephonic conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday, the pair agreed that it won’t be possible to hold the Olympics this year due to the relentless spread of the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed close to 19,000 lives globally.

“In order to safeguard the health of the athletes and everybody involved in the Olympics and to make a contribution to the containment of the coronavirus, we agreed to postpone the Olympics to latest the summer of 2021,” said Bach.

“But there is a lot of uncertainty remaining for the entire humanity. We are together in a very dark tunnel and we don’t know what is happening tomor-

Thomas Bach row. We want this Olympic flame to be the light at the end of the tunnel and so we will undertake this extremely challenging task of postponing the Games and of organising a postponed Games which has never happened before.

“We have no blueprint for this. We will need everybody’s contribution to make this happening because the Olympics are the most complex event on this planet. We want to provide you with the best conditions and a safe environment so give us some time now to analyse these big questions and put this huge jigsaw puzzle together.”

The IOC has been coming under increasing pressure from athletes and federations in the past few weeks due to its adamance

that the Games will go forward as planned on July 24. Almost all of the Olympic qualifiers have been either cancelled or postponed over the past two months due to the spread of coronavirus.

Bach said that the athletes can be now sure of making their Olympic dream come true. He also said that being able to successfully host the Olympics next year would be a celebration of humanity’s triumph over coronavirus.

“You can be sure that you can make your Olympic dream come true. And imagine what this can mean for all of us. These Olympic games could then finally be a celebration of humanity after having overcome this unprecedented crisis of the coronavirus,” he said.

“It could be a true celebration of the determination we have and the Olympic spirit which unites us all. You would be the main protagonist of this Olympic community celebrating this light at the end of the tunnel for humanity. I cannot promise ideal solutions but I can promise that we do everything to have the best possible games for everybody and first and foremost for

you, the athletes.

“I ask you to be flexible, united and give us the information to make all this happen. And then hopefully we will see each

other in Tokyo in 2021 to celebrate a successful Olympic games together with all of humanity and look into a brighter future for all of us.”

The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics due to the coronavirus pandemic will have “no impact” on the Paris Games, which will go ahead as scheduled in “summer 2024”, the head of the organising committee Tony Estanguet told AFP on Tuesday.

The 2020 Games were delayed until “no later than summer 2021” by the IOC and Japanese Prime Minister Sinzo Abe earlier on Tuesday, but Estanguet said the first postponement of an Olympics during peacetime would not affect the Paris edition, which will now be staged three years after the Tokyo event.

“The 2024 Games will be held in the summer of 2024. There is no impact on the date,” said the three-time Olympic canoeing champion.

The Olympics were due to be held from July 24-August 9 this year, but

it was deemed too dangerous to hold it as planned due to the pandemic which has claimed the lives of almost 7,000 people worldwide.

“It was the best decision for the athletes, for all the players in the Games,” added Estanguet.

“I believe that the Games must stay in their place.

“We are really advancing on our own preparation plan. Each situation in the Games is different.

We do not have the same infrastructure to build.

“We are advancing on our schedule independently of that of Tokyo.”

The Olympics became the highest-profile of a long list of sporting events hit by the COVID-19 outbreak, with football’s Euro 2020 also postponed until next year, while the majority of global international sport has been put on hold.

‘Tokyo postponement has no impact on Paris 2024 Olympics’

On Tuesday, Afridi tweeted some pictures in which he was seen donating essential items to people.

Lahore, Mar 25 (IANS): Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi is earning praise from all quarters, including his yesteryear on-field rival Harbhajan Singh for donating disinfectant soap, material and food to the needy as the world battles with the coronavirus pandemic.

On Tuesday, Afridi tweeted some pictures in which he was seen donating essential items to people. “Day 3 of serving the needy: packs containing disinfectant soap, material, food and a sheet on preventative measures to take to avoid the contraction and spread of coronavirus were included, with advice

to stay at home. Let’s pull together & serve others too #DonateKaroNa #HopeNotOut,” he had tweeted.

On Wednesday, Harbhajan praised Afridi’s gesture and said: “Great work for humanity Shahid Afridi.

May god bless us all... more power to you... praying for world’s wellbeing…

Nanak naam chardikala tere bhaane sarbat da bhala.”

The former Pakistan skipper expressed gratitude to Harbhajan and replied: “Humanity is bigger than anything! Thank you Bhajji for your kind words. The world needs to unite, it is our collective responsibility to help the poor and needy in every way possible in the

global fight against COVID19.”

According to The Dawn, close to 1,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus have been reported so far in Pakistan and seven lives have been lost.

Earlier, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar also urged people to help each other rising above religion and economic status during the coronavirus pandemic.

In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said it is time for people to think about others, “time to be a human, not Hindu, Muslim. People will have to help each other, collect funds.”

These are testing times, please CAB to donate Rs. 25 lakh Washing clothes, cleaning washroom: stand united: Kohli and Anushka to combat COVID-19 Shikhar Dhawan’s life in corona times

Kohli and Anushka Sharma posted a 51-second long video on twitter.

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): Celebrated couple Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma on Wednesday requested citizens to stay at home during the national wide 21-day lockdown, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid the coronavirus outbreak.

“These are testing

times and we need to wake up to the seriousness of this situation. Please let us all follow what’s been told to us and stand united please. It’s a plea to everyone,” Kohli captioned the 51-second-long video on Twitter in which both the Indian skipper and Anushka can be seen urg-

ing people to remain indoors and follow social distancing.

On Tuesday, Modi announced that the country will be under complete lockdown for next 21 days.

Welcoming the move, Kohli had requested countrymen to “stay at home” for next 21 days as “social distancing is the only cure” available with us which can stop novel coronavirus from spreading.

“As our honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji just announced, the whole countr y is going into a lockdown starting midnight today for the next 21 days. My request will remain the same, PLEASE STAY AT HOME. Social distancing is the only cure for COVID-19”, Kohli tweeted.

In India, more than 500 confirmed cases of coronavirus have been reported till now and 11 lives have also been lost.

Ko lk ata , M a r 2 5 (IANS): The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has decided to donate Rs 25 lakh towards the West Bengal government’s emergency relief fund to be used to combat the deadly coronavirus pandemic.

CAB President Avishek Dalmiya has also pledged donation to the government’s emergency relief fund on a personal scale.

“In these uncertain times of COVID-19 when all our focus and resources have been on combating and eradicating this pandemic, the Cricket Association of Bengal has come forward and decided to donate a sum of Rs 25 lakh to the state administration in Corona Aid. “We are perhaps going through the darkest phase of human civilization when worldwide lives have been lost to novel coronavirus.

“Cricket stands for unity. It also stands for humanity. Therefore, on behalf of CAB, we have decided to donate Rs 25 lakhs for now to the Emergency Relief Fund to be used in combating this

disease. As a responsible institution, it is our duty to stand by the administration and help them eradicate this disease,” said Avishek.

“Thanks to the proactiveness of our government both at the state and centre; we have been successful in implementing a countrywide lockdown but a lot more needs to be done. Hence, we have come forward for the sake of the people in times of crisis,” said CAB secretary Snehashis Ganguly. In an appeal, Avishek, son of former BCCI President Jagmohan Dalmiya, said he would ‘personally’ want to meet some of the needs of the vulnerable by contributing to the Government’s Emergency Relief Fund. “It is the government’s responsibility to take immediate measures to isolate towns and cities, districts and divisions where the virus is spreading -- including lockdowns wherever necessary. It is also a must to provide testing kits, masks and other equipment to hospitals,” Avishek said in his appeal.

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): At a time when people have been advised to stay home over the next 21 days during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, celebrities from all walks of life are taking to social medial to share how they are spending their days.

India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan, who is also in isolation with his wife Ayesha and son Zoravar, recently posted a hilarious video, showing how a husband has to tolerate the tantrums of his better-half playing to the tune of Bollywood hit ‘Jab se hui hai shaadi’.

In the funny clip, the 34-year-old can first be seen washing clothes while sitting in a bath-tub.

Ayesha was spotted doing her make-up, standing in front of a mirror. Dhawan continuously asked for respite, folding his hands, but Ayesha didn’t budge.

Thereafter, Ayesha can be seen talking on the phone even as Dhawan

In a funny clip, the 34-year-old can first be seen washing clothes while sitting in a bath-tub. cleans the toilet. Ayesha of the coronavirus. Inalso has a stick in her to dia’s three-match ODI make sure that Dhawan series against South Afdoesn’t back away from rica would have marked performing his duties. a return to international Dhawan uploaded cricket for Dhawan after the video with a popular he had sustained an injury Bollywood song in the during the ODIs against background with a cap- Australia at home earlier tion: “Life after one week this year. at home. Reality hits hard He subsequently #AeshaDhawan @Boat- missed India’s tour of New Nirvana #boAtheadStay- Zealand but was named in INsane.” the Indian squad for the All sporting events ODIs against South Afhave been cancelled or rica which were ultimately postponed in the wake postponed.

Football will be the unifying factor soon: Jhingan COVID-19: Ashwin uses ‘mankad’ New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): At a time when #StayHomeStaySafe echoes the sentiment of not just 1.3 billion people but the entire world, India footballer Sandesh Jhingan feels “it will not be long before smiles will be back.”

“But for that, we need to be responsible, not indulge in any kind of harakiri or stupidity,” he smiles.

“These are difficult times -- it’s the time to show our character as a nation. We need to stick to directives from authorities and cooperate. Stick together as a team.”

Currently, in Chandigarh with his family, Jhingan stated the day is not far when he foresees “football reuniting the entire world.”

“History will tell you that sports has always been the unifying factor. And history will repeat itself again,” he quipped.

“I can imagine the buzz at packed stadiums, the passion, the support of the fans when things get back to normal. Everyone will again go out and shout for their heroes, their

Sandesh Jhingan teams. That’s the beauty, and power of sports,” Jhingan expressed, only to reiterate: “But all of that lies in our own hands. The earlier we want it to happen, the more responsible we need to be.”

Having a gym at his own home, staying fit isn’t much of a concern for the sturdy defender. The rest of the time is spent “writing, and spending quality time

with family.”

“For me, the definition of life is not to complain, but to get the best of the current situation,” he declared.

“In this 2K era, almost everyone complains about not getting enough time to spend with family. But now when all have been told to stay at home, people feel otherwise,” Jhingan smiled sarcastically.

“Complete your office work from home, play with your kids, take care of your parents, talk with all -- stay as a family. Be responsible for them. When did you last do all of that? Strengthen your family bonding.

“This is not the time to complain or enjoy outdoors by socialising. Wellness of family, neighbours, friends and the entire society is much more important than going out for dinner, or catching a movie. Isn’t it?” Jhingan stated in one breath.

On similar lines, on the professional front, despite the postponement of India’s match against Qatar, Jhingan preferred to look at the brighter side.

“I had promised coach and medical staff that I would be ready for the home match against Qatar.

I pushed myself for that, knew no limits. But now I have gained more time to regain the strength of my knee. Off course, there was no way this match could have been played. But it will be soon,” he added.

“And that will be quite a spectacle.”

moment to ask people to stay indoors

Kripa karke ghar me rahe: KP urges Indians

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): With the government calling for a 21day lockdown on Tuesday night in an effort to fight the coronavirus outbreak, India spinner R. Ashwin used a picture of him ‘mankading Jos Buttler in last years Indian Premier League to ask people to stay indoors and stay safe.

Incidentally, the infamous dismissal turned a year older on Wednesday.

Taking to Twitter, Ashwin wrote: “Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it’s exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. Don’t wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! #21DayLockdown” PM Modi announced in an address to the country a 21-day lockdown starting from Tuesday midnight.

He said this is an essential step to fight coronavirus decisively. He added that saving lives is priority

New Delhi, Mar 25 (IANS): Former South African cricketer Kevin Pietersen has urged Indian citizens to stay indoors during the 21-day lockdown period which started from Tuesday midnight amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“Namaste India! I have heard that your situation is like ours, PM Modi has announced a nationwide lockdown for 21 days.

I request you to follow this instruction. We will fight coronavirus together and come out to this situation.

Please stay at your home and stay safe,” he tweeted in Hindi.

Earlier also, Pietersen had tweeted in Hindi urging Indian citizens to adhere to the guidelines issued by the government to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has so far infected over 500 people and claimed over 10 lives.

He had revealed he was helped by Indian cricketer Srivats Goswami to put out the message in Hindi.

The match where Ashwin mankaded Jos Buttler. as of now.

“With folded hands, I request you to stay put wherever you are,” said Prime Minister Modi. He added that he is mindful of the economic ramifications of it. However, this is

a smaller concern.

PM Modi warned, that if the citizens don’t follow a complete lockdown for the coming 21 days, the nation will go back 21 years and many families will be devastated.

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