March 30, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXX No. 113

DIMAPUR, MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020 Pages 12 ` 5.00

MHA allows transportation of all goods national, Page 7

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NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): Centre on Sunday asked the state governments and Union Territory administrations to effectively seal state and district borders to stop the movement of migrant workers, who will be put in 14-day quarantine at destinations.

During a video conference with the state chief secretaries and DGPs, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba and Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla asked them to ensure that there is no movement of people across cities or on highways as the lockdown continues. “There has been movement of migrant work-

DC Dmu orders price regulation of masks, sanitizers DIMAPUR, MAR 29 (NPN): In pursuance to the ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution March 21, 2020 notification, DC Dimapur, Anoop Kinchi has informed the general public that the Centre has ordered regulation of prices of masks (2 Ply & 3 Ply), the melt blown non woven fabric used as raw material in production of masks, mask (2 Ply & 3 Ply) and hand sansitizers in preventing COVID-I9 virus.

The retail melt blow non woven fabric used in manufacturing marks (2 ply & 3 ply), shall not be more than the prices prevailing on the day 1 month prior to March 13, 2020 .i.e. prices prevailing on Feb. 12, 2020.

Retail process of masks (3 ply surgical masks) shall not be more than the prices prevailing on the day 1 month prior to March 13, 2020 i.e. on Feb. 12, 2020 or not more than Rs. 10 per piece whichever is lower and that of mask (2 ply) shall not be more than Rs. 8 per piece. Retail prices of sanitizers shall not be more than Rs. 100 per bottle of 200 ml, the prices of other quantities of sanitizers shall be fixed in proportion of this prices. This notification shall remain in force upto June 30, 2020, the DC stated.

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ers in some parts of the country. Directions were issued that district and state borders should be effectively sealed,� an official statement said.

Later, at a press conference, MHA joint secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said those migrant workers who have violated the lockdown and travelled during the curb will be put in 14 days quarantine at their destinations.

The Union Home Ministry issued an order in this regard on Sunday afternoon, saying “the migrant people, who have moved out to reach their home states/ home towns, must be kept

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in the nearest shelter by the respective state/Union Territory government quarantine facilities after proper screening for a minimum period of 14 days as per standard health protocol�.

The government said district magistrates and SPs should be made personally responsible for the implementation of these directions.

The two top central government officials told the chiefs of police and civil administrations of all states to make adequate arrangements for food and shelter for the poor and needy people, including migrant labourers, be made at the place of their work. The cabinet secretary and Home Ministry officials are in constant touch with the state chief secretaries and the DGPs. The central government on Saturday had issued orders for the use of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) funds for this purpose. Sufficient funds are available with states in this head, it said.

States have been also told to ensure timely payment of wages to labourers at their place of work during the period of lockdown without any cut.

DIMAPUR, MAR 29 (NPN): NPF through its press bureau, while expressing immense gratitude to the Almighty for no report of any COVID-19 case in Nagaland, has however expressed concern that the state government as part of its preparedness, has resorted to the “theory of salary deduction from public servants.�

NPF maintained that police fall within the parameter of being classified as ‘Frontline Workers’ engaged in combating coronavirus, a global pandemic.

NPF said even though entire Nagaland has been under total lockdown, the assignment and duties of the police has not lessened so the welfare of the personnel needed consideration.

NPF said, instead, special incentives should be provided to sanitation workers, doctors and nurses including individuals or agencies engaged in com-

bating coronavirus who should be awarded by the state instead of having salaries deducted.

NPF said even the initiative of setting up of CM’s relief fund to receive contribution from people should be voluntary and not coerced otherwise, it would tantamount to extortion.

NPF also expressed concer n over repor ted shortage of some essential commodities including rice in many districts and said it was disheartened to note that the PDA government was asking the common people to deposit three months advance for their quota of rice.

Such a policy approach was “very shallow and unthinkable� when people were going through a very rough time owing to the complete lockdown it said. NPF has suggested that the state government utilise the Rs.17 crore re-

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s India entered day 5 of 21-day lockdown to fight the novel coronavirus outbreak in the country, the number of confirmed cases rose to 1,085, including 48 foreign nationals on Sunday, according to Health Ministry. Of them, 95 have been cured or discharged with one migrated case The number of deaths due to the infection stood at 27. The total number of active cases in the country rose to 901, while 96 patients have been cured and discharged, including one migrated patient. Kerala and Maharashtra were the worst-hit states.

Globally, the death toll from coronavirus has crossed 31,000 with Italy seeing the highest casualties. Spain on Sunday registered 838 new deaths over the past 24 hours, and the number of cases has climbed by about 6,500 over the given period.

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAR 29 (NPN): Principal secretary and Home commissioner, Abhijit Sinha has clarified that no organization has been permitted, entrusted or assigned to assist the district administrations or the state police in implementing State government orders during

the lockdown, and urged people to inform authorities if anyone

was found violating this.

Interacting with Nagaland

Post at 24X7 State Level Control

Room on COVID 19 here on

Sunday evening, Sinha said the

government had not issued any permission to any organisation

lock- for implementation of the down order since every person was exposed to the risk of getting infected by the virus, and appealed to citizens not to take law into their own hands.

He appealed to citizens to remain indoors except on unavoidable circumstances and said even if they had to go out to buy essential commodities they should take turns in a discipline manner by maintaining the prescribed social distance of one metre.

Sinha stressed that peopleto-people contact should be minimized to a large extend,

Abhijit Sinha

else the whole purpose of lockdown would be defeated. He asked citizens not to panic fearing shortage of essential commodities as there were enough stocks that would last for threeand-a-half months, as he called for inculcating the habit of maintaining social distance and sought public cooperation at this moment.

Protective gears expected to arrive by air cargo

Meanwhile, Sinha informed Nagaland Post that more protective gears in thousands were expected to reach the State in the next few days by air.

He said the State had four dedicated COVID-19 hospitals so far – two in Kohima and one each in Dimapur and Mokokchung. He added that efforts were on to open one more COVID-19 hospital for Mokokchung.

cently withdrawn for VDB matching grant fund to purchase essential commodities and later reimburse it from the Relief Funding on COVID-19 from the central government.

NPF also urged the ruling coalition to ensure sufficient supply of essential commodities and also utilise various government revenues including revenue from GST amounting to crores of rupees instead of begging from the poor public and exhibiting helplessness on the pretext of paucity of fund.

Further NPF ridiculed the PDA government for its claim of being prepared to tackle COVID-19 when there was no required facilities on the ground. It urged upon the PDA to be more transparent in tackling COVID-19 as the lives of the people of Nagaland “cannot be put at risk due to negligence of the government.�

Correspondent

to Wokha, 40 each to Tuensang, Phek and Zunheboto and 30 each to Kiphire, Peren and Longleng. He added that rest of the stock had been kept at the State Capital.

He said the H&FW department had also kept ready 133 ambulances for emergency, pooled in from the churches, paramilitary forces, NGOs, individuals,

private Hospitals and the government’s own, even as altogether 24,619 phone calls had been received so far on the various helpline numbers.

Fur ther, the home commissioner informed the media that 1,523 individuals had self-registered till 2.30 pm on Sunday in the ncovid19 Nagaland app launched by chief minister Neiphiu

Rio on Saturday with all the required information duly filled in.

However, pointing out that 312 persons had not completed providing their full details, he requested them to submit their details because by doing so they too would be contributing in the united fight against COVID-19 in the State.

KOHIMA, MAR 29 (NPN): Out of the 22 samples sent for testing, 17 have tested negative while reports of the remaining five are awaited.

Informing this during a briefing on COVID-19, principal secretary and home commissioner Abhijit Sinha further said 3,982 individu(Cont’d on p-8) als, including students, who had returned from outside the State since March 6 had self-reported to their respective district surveillance teams and were under home quarantine till 3 pm on Sunday. Of these, 3,590 were presently under home quarantine and 392 had completed their quarantine, he added.

Sinha said the health & family welfare (H&FW) department had distributed 740 personal protective equipments (PPEs) to all the 11 districts – 200 to Kohima, 100 to Dimapur, 90 each to Residents of Army Supply Road and staff of Nagaland Mines & Mineral, Dimapur, feeding Mokokchung and Mon, 50 the poor and homeless near Dimapur Railway Station on Sunday. (NP)

Citizens provide free food to poor and homeless

Longleng residents panic as Jorhat puts curbs DNSU denounces F&CS directive

Cops manning the empty street of Longleng town Sunday. (NP)

Correspondent

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COVID-19: Over 1000 cases, 27 dead

NPF slams govt. decision to deduct 1-day salary 17 samples out of 22 test negative, reports of 5 awaited

This is it!

“Govt is going to give cash to jobless workers.

What about us, who remain jobless?�

House rent should not be demanded from the labourers for this period.

Action should be taken against those who are asking labourers or students to vacate the premises, the statement said.

Detailed instructions on monitoring of such persons during quarantine have been issued to the states. “It was impressed upon all the states that three weeks of strict enforcement is essential to contain the spread of coronavirus. This is in the interest of everyone,� the statement said.

A large number of migrant workers have left their work places in different parts of the country in the last few days and walking down to their native places, hundreds of kilometres away facing hardships on the way.

The migrant workers have no option but to walk as there is no transport available after the announcement of the nationwide lockdown

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday in a bid to combat the coronavirus outbreak. Seeing their plight, some state governments have made arrangements for their transport, accommodation and food of late.

No organization permitted to implement lockdown: Govt

LONGLENG, MAR 29 (NPN): Ever since the lockdown was imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19),

people in Longleng district are now in a state of panic following reports that authorities and volunteers in Jorhat had put restrictions on loading and transporting of essential commodities by

trucks due to similar lockdown there.

For tunately, much to the relief of the people of Longleng, two trucks with essential commodities reached Longleng town after five days on Sunday Apart from the fear of scarcity of essential commodities following the development, people are more worried about acute shortage of drinking water as they depend on daily supply from Jorhat till the arrival of rainy season.

As news regarding restrictions being imposed in vehicular movement began to spread, hundreds of people rushed to the already-dried wells to fetch water. They stood in queue for longs hours and spent sleepless nights, after being given special consideration by local volunteers and security forces manning empty

streets, to fetch water.

When enquired by this correspondent about the difficulties they were facing now, many replied that the Longleng district administration should request its Jorhat counterpart to allow Longleng-bound trucks to bring essential commodities by lifting restrictions. They also demanded that vehicles ferrying water should be allowed to ply since people of Longleng could not survive on natural water sources, most of which had been already dried up since the dry season began.

Meanwhile, Tuensang district has screened 645 persons and has asked 156 persons to remain under home quarantine. Though seven persons have completed the 14-day quarantine period, they have been asked to venture out for the next two weeks.

DIMAPUR, MAR 29 (NPN): At a time when the Central government had announced 21-day nationwide lockdown to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and various NGOs and local bodies were toiling hard to provide food and other items to the poor people especially homeless, Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) questioned the wisdom of Food & Civil Supplies (F&CS) department’s directive to priority households agents to deposit three months’ advance money on or before April 15.

Terming it as very unfortunate and astonishing, the union in a statement wondered as to how the department could even think of issuing such a directives at this crucial period of time when the poor people were go through severe hardship.

Pointing that the Central government had announced free additional supply of rice/food grains for three months, DNSU said it was the inherent moral duty of the State government to take necessary steps in this regard, whether or not the Central government gave a formal order to issue free essential commodities.

The union also expressed its serious concern over the unavailability of COVID(Cont’d on p-8) 19 testing kit.

F&CS deptt clarifies

Food & Civil Supplies (F&CS) department has clarified that to ensure timely availability of food grains in sufficient quantity to beneficiaries of National Food Security Act (NFSA), ease the tension of catering food grains and lift rice/wheat of three months in advance as directed by the Union Ministry of Food & Public Distribution System, it had decided to lift food grains from FCI in advance, so that the people did not suffer in case the present situation escalates.

Reacting to news report “DDVCCA seeks clarification from Food & Civil Supplies deptt�, F&CS director in a statement explained that COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown imposed by the Central government had become a huge burden for a State like Nagaland which imported commodities from outside.

According to the F&CS department, the announcement by the Centre to providing free rice/food grains to the eligible beneficiaries was an additional programme under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY), besides the normal allocation, for which necessary measures were under (Cont’d on p-8) process.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

Local miscreants harass stranded passengers

Stranded passengers helplessly and patiently waiting for some possibility of going home. (NP)

ed at Dimapur railway sta- ment and physical abuse by tion due to complete shut- local miscreants since the DIMAPUR, MAR. 29 down all over the country, day of lockdown started.

When this reporter (NPN): Passengers strand- have been facing harassStaff Reporter

spoke with some of the stranded passengers on March 29, it was learned that the passengers were

mistreated and sometimes physically abused by some local miscreants. They also claimed they were always the last to get food or water whenever NGOs or concerned citizens provided for them.

A lady passenger (on conditions of anonymity) from Guwahati, disclosed that she was very much pleased by the humanitarian act carried out by certain denizens of Dimapur.

However, she lamented that some miscreants stopped people from rendering help to stranded passengers and daily wagers by harassing and mentally abusing them.

Another passenger stated that the miscreants would just come and check their pockets for money, leaving them completely defenceless due to man power.

The helpless and stranded passengers’ appealed law enforcing agencies to ensure such anti-social elements do not make matters worse in this situation, and also stated that such acts hampered the image of the state.

SRSU appeals for better quality workmanship of road construction

DIMAPUR: Suruhuto Range Students Union (SRSU) has expressed disappointment over the snail pace ongoing road construction from Suruhuto to Asukhomi village under CRF Job No:CRF/NG/201717/036, 15 km in length with an amount of Rupees 16 Crores 49 Lakhs.

According to DIPR report, the work has been executed in mid 2018 in contractual ag reement with Naga construction.

The road from Suruhuto to Asukhomi is the lifeline of Suruhuto area but till now the commuters were facing untold hardships due to poor condition of the road. Union had earlier given a press statement on May 28, 2019 and surprise inspection at the work site was also done but despite of giving an affirmative signal, there has been only a slight progress on earth cutting or excavation. SRSU said that only verbal assurances seem

to be had been rendered.

SRSU therefore requested the contractors and the concerned department to try and produce better quality workmanship. Union also assured and extended full cooperation towards the work and urged them to do the work according to DPR. It also reminded the contractors and the concerned department that they will not drop the subject but will keep tabs on till the completion of the work.

DY CM expresses gratitude

DIMAPUR: State deputy chief minister, Y. Patton has expressed gratitude to Priyang Pandey, political advisor to Nagaland chief minister, NGOs, UP police department, administration and all those involved in tracing and taking care of one Nzanthung Lotha, who went missing on March 27 and was last seen at Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh.

According to DYCMO media cell,

Nzanthung was found on March 28 and was presently lodged at Nagaland House, New Delhi after thorough medical checkup. Meanwhile, Patton has appealed to all Nagas travelling outside the state to be extra cautious and vigilant so that such cases do not arise in the future, and to contact the nearest police station when such need arises.

NPF president condolence

DIMAPUR: President of Naga People’s Front, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu on his own behalf and of the party rank and file expressed sorrow at the sudden demise of Joseph Konyak, son of S Ch-

ingyem Konyak, president NPF Mon division after a brief illness on March 29 in Dimapur.

In a condolence message, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu stated that, party shares the pain and empathizes

with the emotional distress of the family at this hour of grief. NPF also conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and pray that Almighty God grant the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

Organisations condemn CHS & CHYN conduct sanitization programme March 16 murder incident

DIMAPUR: Various organisations have condemned the murder of late Er. Kevinguto Khate at Dimapur on March 16.

AYO: Angami Youth Organization (AYO) in a condemnation note by president Kekhrie Pfukha and general secretary, Visako Rino stated that, late Khate, a revered member of the organisation, was an accomplished academician who was on the verge of completing his doctorate degree and a man who carried the hope of the community.

While condemning the crime, AYO stated that it will not just sit back, but was prepared and will be forced to retaliate upon such acts being caused upon the community time and again.

While lauding the police department for promptly arresting the suspects, AYO also appealed that justice be brought at the earliest and the highest punishment be awarded to the culprits. AYO conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and pray to the Almighty to grant solace to the family.

KYO: Khonoma Youth Organization (KYO) in a condemnation note by KYO president Mhiesilhukho Yalie and general secretary Mhiesisokho Chase stated that, late Er. Kevinguto

was a promising young man and aspiring intellectual, who was very hardworking man and loved by all.

Stating that his demise was a loss not only to the family and people of Khonoma but to Nagas in general, the KYO added that a huge vacuum has been created.

Condemning the brutal and savage act of the wrongdoers, the KYO has fervently beseeched the law enforcing agencies to deliver justice at the earliest and penalize the culprits with befitting punishments. KYO also conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and pray that the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

TYOD: Tenyimi Youth Organisation Dimapur (TYOD) in a condemnation by general secretary Khrozote Kapfo and treasure Athikho Kavina stated that the organisation has vehemently condemned the heinous act in the strongest terms.

Organization while lauding the police for their swift actions taken has also appealed the law enforcing agencies to leave no stone unturned in delivering justice and punish the culprits as deem fit.

TYOD further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and pray for the departed soul to rest in peace.

Team members from CHS and CHYN during the sensitisation programme.

DIMAPUR: In view of the impending COVID-19, the Chümoukedima Hindu Society (CHS) in coordination with Chümoukedima Hindu Yuva Nagaland (CHYN) conducted a sensitisation programme on March 27, under the supervi-

sion of Thejavizo Nakhro, EAC-cum-administrator of Chümoukedima Town Council and his staff.

A press release from CHS stated that, the programme covered mostly the public places from the 2nd gate junc-

tion to the 7th Mile, Daily Market area, Jame Masjid, Chümoukedima Police Station and its surroundings. However, on the public request some of their houses were also covered.

The programme was conducted by a team of 10 members

properly equipped with masks, gloves and others.

This is a small step towards the cause of humanity for maintaining hygienic conditions in protecting and preventing the risk of getting infection from the disease. This

is the first phase of sanitization and CHS would come up more with such relevant actions as situation demands. The team was led by Kishan Sharma, president and Pintu M Ghosh, working president of Chümoukedima Hindu Society.

National Disaster Management Authority directives to State/UT governments DIMAPUR: Under directions of the order of NDMA and in exercise of the powers, conferred under Section 10(2) (1) of the Disaster Management Act the undersigned, in his capacity as chairperson, National Executive Committee, hereby issues guidelines, as per the Annexure, to Ministries/Departments of Government of India. State/Union Territory Governments and State/ Union Territory Authorities with the directions for their strict implementation.

This order, issued by Home Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, has been in force, in all parts of the country for a period of 21 days with effect from 25.03. 2020.

Section 51 to 60 of Disaster Management Act 2005 offences and penalties 51. Punishment for obstruction, etc - Whoever, without reasonable cause (a) obstructs any officer or employee of the Central Government or the State Government, or a person authorised by the National Authority or State Authority or District Authority in the discharge of his functions under this Act; or K Y M C

(b) refuses to comply with any direction given by or on behalf of the Central Government or the State Government or the National Executive Committee or the State Executive Committee or the District Authority under this Act, shall on conviction be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year or with fine, or with both, and if such obstruction or refusal to comply with directions results in loss of lives or imminent danger thereof, shall on conviction be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years.

52. Punishment for false c1aim -Whoever knowingly makes a claim which he knows or has reason to believe to be false for obtaining any relief, assistance, repair, reconstruction or other benefits consequent to disaster from any officer of the Central Government, the State Government, the National Authority, the State Authority or the District Authority, shall, on conviction be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, and also with fine.

53. Punishment for

misappropriation of money or materials, etc - Whoever, being entrusted with any money or materials, or otherwise being, in custody of, or dominion over, any money or goods, meant for providing relief in any threatening disaster situation or disaster, misappropriates or appropriates for his own use or disposes of such money or materials or any part thereof or willfully compels any other person so to do, shall on conviction be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, and also with fine.

54. Punishment for false warning - Whoever makes or circulates a false alarm or warning as to disaster or its severity or magnitude, leading to panic, shall on conviction, be punishable with imprisonment which may extend to one year or with fine.

55. Offences by Departments of the Government - (1) Where an offence under this Act has been committed by any Department of the Government, the head of the Department shall be deemed to be guilty of the offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly

unless he proves that the offence was committed without his knowledge or that he exercised all due diligence to prevent the commission of such offence.

(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (I), where an offence under this Act has been committed by a Department of the Government and it is proved that the offence has been committed with the consent or connivance of, or is attributable to any neglect on the part of, any officer, other than the head of the Department, such officer shall be deemed to be guilty of that offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly.

56. Failure of officer in duty or his connivance at the contravention of the provisions of this Act - Any officer, on whom any duty has been imposed by or under this Act and who ceases or refuses to perform or withdraws himself from the duties of his office shall, unless he has obtained the express written permission of his official superior or has other lawful excuse for so doing, be punishable with imprisonment for a term

which may extend to one year or with fine.

57. Penalty for contravention of any order regarding requisitioning If any person contravenes any order made under section 65, he shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year or with fine or with both.

58. Offence by companies (1) Where an offence under this Act has been committed by a company or body corporate, every person who at the time the offence was committed, was in charge of, and was responsible to, the company, for the conduct of the business of the company, as well as the company, 25 shall be deemed to be guilty of the contravention and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly: (1) Provided that nothing in this sub-section shall render any such person liable to any punishment provided in this Act, if he proves that the offence was committed without his knowledge or that he exercised due diligence to prevent the commission of such offence.

(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-

section (1), where an offence under this Act has been committed by a company, and it is proved that the offence was committed with the consent or connivance of or is attributable to any neglect on the part of any director, manager, secretary or other officer of the company, such director, manager, secretary or other officer shall also, be deemed to be guilty of that offence and shall be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly.

Explanation.-For the purpose of this section (a) “company” means anybody corporate and includes a firm or other association of individuals; and (b) “director”, in relation to a firm, means a partner in the firm.

59. Previous sanction for prosecution - No prosecution for offences punishable under sections 55 and 56 shall be instituted except with the previous sanction of the Central Government or the State Government, as the case may be, or of any officer authorized in this behalf, by general or special order, by such Government.

60. Cognizance of offences -• No court shall take cognizance of an of-

fence under this Act except on a complaint made by(a) the National Authority, the State Authority, the Central Government, the State Government, the District Authority or any other authority or officer authorized in this behalf by that Authority or Government, as the case may be; or (b) any person who has given notice of not less than thirty days in the manner prescribed, of the alleged offence and his intention to make a complaint to the National Authority, the State Authority, the Central Government, the State Government, the District Authority or any other authority or officer authorized as aforesaid.

2. Section 188 IPC in the Indian Penal Code 188.

Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant - Whoever, knowing that, by an order promulgated by a public servant lawfully empowered to promulgate such order, he is directed to abstain from a certain act, or to take certain order with certain property in his possession or under his management, disobeys such direction, shall, if such disobedience causes or tends to cause obstruction, annoyance or

injury, or risk of obstruction, annoyance or injury, to any persons lawfully employed, be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to one month or with fine which may extend to two hundred rupees, or with both; 50 and if such disobedience causes or tends to cause danger to human life, health or safety, or causes or tends to cause a riot or affray, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both. Explanation - It is not necessary that the offender should intend to produce harm, or contemplate his disobedience as likely to produce harm. It is sufficient that he knows of the order which he disobeys, and that his disobedience produces, or is likely to produce, harm. Illustration An order is promulgated by a public servant lawfully empowered to promulgate such order, directing that a religious procession shall not pass down a certain street. A knowingly disobeys the order, and thereby causes danger of riot. A has committed the offence defined in this section.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

Goodwill contributions towards combating COVID-19 in Nagaland

Bags of rice donated by P. Paiwang Konyak for the constituency people.

DIMAPUR: Under the nationwide lockdown, many people living in remote and even in town areas have been affected in Nagaland.

Many political leaders, individuals, and organisations have been contributing their best for mitigating the difficulties being faced by the citizens through various goodwill donations.

P. Paiwang Konyak reaches out to constituency people: Minister of Transport, Civil Aviation, Railways & Land Resources, P. Paiwang Konyak distributed rice to the people of his constituency 41 A/C Tizit to mitigate the struggling people in combating the pandemic COVID-19. People struggle to feed themselves due to current lockdown situation created by the unseen deadly virus. Konyak said that it was just the 5th day of the lockdown and still 16 days more to go, whereby he urged the citizens of Tizit not to panic because he was trying his best to help his people as per his capacity. Citizens expressed their relief and appreciated the minister who came to their rescue during these hard times.

Metsubo donates masks, gloves to Mkg dist adm: Rural Development minister, Metsubo

Jamir donated 5000 protective masks, and 5000 gloves to the Mokokchung district administration on Sunday. The items were received by EAC Ongpangkong South, Sangpangchang on behalf of the district administration at the minister’s residence in Kohima.

Mmhonlumo Kikon donates for a cause: Ralan Area Lotha Hoho (RALH) on behalf of advisor of IT, Science and Technology, NRE Mmhonlumo Kikon, handed over N95 masks/surgical masks and hand sanitizers to the SDO (Civil) and OC Ralan on March 28.

Phek legislators distribute hand sanitizers: Legislators of Phek district contributed hand sanitizers, disinfectants, 3 layer masks to its health centres of all the constituencies. The items were received in the presence of the additional deputy commissioner Pfutsero, SMO Pfutsero Chakhesang Public Organization and other leaders. The equipments to fight the COVID-19 contributed by the Phek legislators will be distributed to the Phek HQ and all the subdivisions.

AYA donates PPE to IMDH Mokokchung: Amidst the panic

(2nd from Right) Metsubo Jamir with EAC Ongpangkong South along with RALH members with police personnel during the handing over of the essential items. others in Kohima. (NP)

AYA members with CMO and staff in IMDH Mokokchung. (NP)

SBN members with the items meant for stranded passengers at Dimapur Railway Station.

of COVID-19 pandemic being felt here, the fight against the pandemic has seen a number of good Samaritans with various forms of assistance to the frontline workers.

Aongza Youth Association (AYA) donated personnel protective equipment comprising of 22 gowns and 26 pairs of shoes to the doctors and

deeply appreciated by the doctors and staff of the hospital. Besides the IMDH also acknowledged the Samaritan efforts offered by the Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) Mokokchung in various ways. (Correspondent) SBN donation to stranded passengers: Seva Bharati Nagaland

staff of IMDH, Mokokchung on Sunday. In the note handed over to the CMO of the hospital, the association asserted that humanity will prevail over this fatal disease one day and wished them the best in all their endeavors. The overwhelming gestures from various groups and associations have been

(SBN), has responded to the request of the DC Dimapur, by donating 100 blankets and 50 mattresses for passengers stranded at Dimapur Railway Station on March 28. A press release from SBN president Dr. Sankar Deb Roy and his team reached out to the needy people at this crucial lockdown period.

An awareness programme on menstrual health was held on March 13 with Nelson Deb, social entrepreneur & founder of Eco Hub as resource person. The speaker elaborated on menstrual health hygiene and the importance Kohima Science College (KSC) Jotsoma, organised a sensitization programme on COVID-19 for the faculty, of proper menstrual health management. Pads vending machine and incinerator was non-teaching staffs and the students on March 13, at the college auditorium with deputy CMO Kohima Dr. Hoito nagalandpost.com Poll inaugurated by the principal Alemla. (Publicity & media cell, DGC) Chishi as the resource person. (KSC Jotsoma assistant professor Richard Dzuvichu) Q.:Will the 21-day nationwide Lockdown be extended to contain coronavirus?

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Q: Should govt provide free

meals to jobless people due to lockdown?  Yes  No  Can’t Say

WEATHER FORECAST march 30

(Temperature in ºC) Agartala Hot with hazy sunshine Aizawl Hazy sunshine Guwahati Hazy sunshine and hot Imphal Hazy sunshine Itanagar Hazy sunshine Shillong Hazy sunshine Kohima Hazy sunshine Dimapur Very warm with hazy sun Mkg Hazy sunshine and not as hot Tuensang Hazy sunshine and cooler Wokha Not as warm with hazy sun Zunheboto Hazy sun and not as warm

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Max 38 32 36 32 31 25 27 35 28 19 27 25

Min 18 13 16 8 17 11 12 17 13 8 17 10

Guidelines to be followed under Kohima district

Dimapur: In order to ensure a successful lockdown period and with a view to facilitate movement of essential services and supplies during the lockdown period for the benefit of the general public, deputy commissioner Kohima, Gregory Thejawelie has directed all concerned to follow the following guidelines.

Agencies which are exempted from the purview of the nationwide lockdown: Hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and all related medical establishments, both government as well as private. The movement of all medical personnel which includes doctors, nurses, para medical staff and other hospital support staff are permitted; Ration shops (under PDS), grocery shops, bakeries fruit shops, vegetable shops, dairy and milk booths, meat & fish shops and seeds & pesticide shops.

Due care should be taken that safe practices like social distancing, markings in front of the shops and use of masks and

hand sanitizers are used at all times; Municipal officers and staff including sanitary workers; Defence, paramilitary and central armed police forces; Helipads, for cargo movement, evacuation and emergencies; Inter-state movement of goods and cargo; Staff of treasury offices including staff of the office of the accountant general which should function with bare minimum staff; Public utilities: petroleum, LPG, CNG & PNG, including their transportation and sale at designated pumps and agencies; Home delivery of essential commodities through ecommerce; Water supply tankers permitted by the government; Power generation and transmission units; Post offices, NIC and early warning agencies; Banks, insurance offices and ATMs and cash management agencies; Movement of district administration officials.

Police, Home Guards & Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services, Disaster Management (NSDMA, NDMA, IRS) are

permitted; Officials & staff of PHE and Power department on bonafide duty; Forest officials and Social Welfare officials on bonafide duty, duly authorized for a specific duty by their head of office. They should function with bare minimum staff; Veterinary hospitals, pharmacies and animal feed and fodder shops and manufacturing units and movement of related items; Print and electronic media including IPR department officials on bonafide duty; Telecom and internet service providers; Manufacture and supply of essential commodities, cold storage and warehouses; Due care should be taken that unnecessary harassment of exempted officials & staff, people involved in delivering essential services & commodities and unfair treatment to the helpless travellers and migrant workers who have been stranded in the district as a result of the nationwide lockdown should be avoided by all.

Further, the following points as prescribed

by the government may also be noted: All places of worship shall be closed and no religious congregations are permitted, without any exception; All social/political/sports/ entertainment/academic/ cultural/religious functions and gatherings are banned, without any exception; In case of funerals, congregation of not more than 20 persons will be permitted; All hospitality services like hotels and homestays are suspended except for those which are accommodating people stranded due to the lockdown and those which are earmarked for quarantine facilities; All persons who have entered the state after March 6 should use the self declaration COVID19 Nagaland App and must register.

OHC panchayat Kohima informs beneficiaries: Officers’ Hill Colony (OHC) panchayat Kohima informed all the beneficiaries of FPS M/s V. Solo that, the issuing of rice and other commodities will be limited and distributed on roster system along with

specific timings. OHC panchayat informed that there was no reason to panic as all the beneficiaries will receive their share according to the roster dates allotted. Essential commodities were made available to the beneficiaries in the first roster on March 28. The second roster will be on March 30 for ration card serial numbers 171 to 260 from p p.m till 12 noon; Ration card serial numbers 261 to 356 from 12:30 p.m till 4 p.m. Beneficiaries have been asked to note down their ration card number with the timing allotted and come. Beneficiaries whose serial numbers are not in the roster have been requested not to come as they will not be entertained.

Do’s and Dont’s for beneficiaries: Always wear mask during the time of your stay in and around fair price shop (FPS); Stay at least a meter distance away from each other; Hand sanitizers shall be available for all the beneficiaries to use; Avoid crowding/mass gathering

at the distribution site and please follow the marked circle allotted for each beneficiaries.

Tseminyu meeting: Covid-19, surveillance team Tseminyu headed by ADC Nokchasashi Kichu held an emergency meeting at its conference hall, Tseminyu on March 28.

According to DIPR report, the meeting discussed on additional places for quarantine where Tseminyu town hall and GHS building (Tseminyu new town) were earmarked in addition to CHC building Tseminyu and those places already made as designated by respective villages in the sub-division.

The meeting also decided to sanitize the important public places with disinfectant in Tseminyu town.

ADC also informed that food stuff is available and therefore the public should not panic. Dr. Aveli SMO appraised the meeting on the preparedness and reports to the higher ups in Kohima with regard to all COVID-19 related information matters from Tseminyu sub-division.

ADC informed that as of now district administration of Tseminyu along with Medical department were ceaselessly working and in constant touch with all concerned including villages in Tseminyu sub-division. He said that all public should follow and put in to practise all preventive and safety measures notified by the government from time to time.

TVC informs: Tenyiphe Village Council (TVC) in its emergency meeting held on March 29 resolved to hold a day of prayer and fasting irrespective of religion on March 31 from 6 a.m to 12 noon due to the pandemic COVID-19. A press release from TVC chairman Helie Kruse and general secretary, Varülhou Rutsa has requested all the residents of Tenyiphe village permanent/temporary to kindly follow the resolution laid down by the village council. Meanwhile, on the day designated there will be total restriction of vehicular movement, works and no shops to be opened till 12 noon.

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northeast

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

‘Topography , less migration contain COVID-19 in NE’

G uwahati / Agar tala, Mar 29 (IANS): Northeast India’s topographical isolation, less congestion of people and fewer international migration, largely due to the mountainous region are the factors that have so far restricted the spread of COVID-19, experts said.

But the experts hasten to add that less effective surveillance over domestic migrants also might be the other reason why detection of corona positive cases has been low in the region, comprising eight states and home to 45.58 million people (2011 census).

The North East Region (NER), surrounded by China, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal, consists of 8 per cent of the country’s total geographical area and 4 per cent of the country’s population.

Compared to around 1,000 positive cases in India so far, two positive cases have been found in two northeastern states -- one each in Manipur and Mizoram.

Health officials in Imphal and Aizawl said conditions of both the patients

Compared to around 1,000 positive cases in India so far, two positive cases have been found in two northeastern states -- one each in Manipur and Mizoram. is “stable”. A 50-year-old Christian pastor from Mizoram tested positive for coronavirus after a 23-yearold Manipuri woman tested positive last week. The Mizo man had returned to Aizawl from Amsterdam, via Delhi and Guwahati on March 16 while the Manipuri girl returned from the United Kingdom on March 21 via Delhi, Kolkata and Agartala.

Renowned physician of northeast India Pradip Bhomik said geographical isolation and lack of

modern transportation are “blessings in disguise” for the people of the northeastern region.

“Compared to metropolitan and important cities of India, the cities and urban localities in the northeastern states are less congested.

Moreover, compared to the number of people in the region, the corona testing facilities and health infrastructure are not so bad, if not excellent,” said Bhowmik, a pioneer in northeast India in controlling different types of Hepatitis.

According to the experts, the northeast region has ten nCoV testing centres in Assam (6), Meghalaya (1), Tripura (1) and Manipur (2) including one by Indian Council of Medical Research’s(ICMR’s) Regional Medical Research Centre at Lahowal in Dibrugarh district.

Assam’s Director of Health Services, Ratindra Bhuyan said there has to be a certain number of requirements in hospitals to enable them to qualify for conducting corona tests, as

ICMR. The ‘Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)’ test is essential for detecting the genetic material (RNA) of coronavirus.

Another Guwahatibased senior doctor Amrit Lal Saha said that less international migration and fewer international communication might be responsible for the limited spread of the COVID-19 in the northeast India.

“I am not sure that how effective has been the surveillance over domestic migrant workers who returned to various states of the region mainly in Assam from different parts of India before the lockdown was enforced,” Saha told IANS. Assam’s Health and Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the positive cases of novel coronavirus have been so far low in northeast India, but huge challenges lie ahead in combat the spread of the dreaded disease.

“The less number of positive cases currently in the region is no reason to be complacent. The Assam

government is taking significant measures to build hospital-bed capacity in the state and numerous personal protections besides ventilators for the possible patients,” said Sarma.

He said a 700-bed quarantine facility has also been made ready in a stadium in Guwahati. “Besides dedicated COVID-19 treatment arrangements are being made for both quarantine facility and treatment of nCoV patients in four more medical college and hospitals, including Guwahati medical college,” said Sarma.

Sociologist Manash Baruah said that decadesold terrorism devastated the northeastern region taking the advantage of the tricky terrain, topography and isolation of people. “The same situation and locational position of the northeast turned into a positive against the spread of coronavirus,” Baruah told IANS. The population density of India has gone up to 382 persons per square kilometre as per the 2011 census against 170 people per sq km in the North-East, 70 per cent of which is mountainous.

Residents with travel history should quarantine: Assam govt

Guwahati, Mar 29 (PTI): The Assam government on Sunday asked apartment societies in the state to ensure home quarantine of residents who recently retur ned from novel coronavirus-affected places.

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority asked the management committees of the apartments to collect information on the health condition and travel history of the residents.

It also asked the committees to assist the persons placed under home isolation in buying essential commodities. All necessary psycho-social support should be provided to them while maintaining infection control protocols, it said.

The management committees must also restrict any discriminatory practice that may hurt the self-esteem of the individual, the advisory said.

It also asked the apartment societies to limit the access of visitors inside the premises and allow them in only after taking their details including travel history.

Each apartment society

shall enforce hand washing at the time of entry for visitors as well as residents, the advisory said.

It asked them to refrain from organising any community event requiring a gathering of more than five persons, ensure the closure of swimming pools, fitness centres and sanitise lift switches, handrails, gates and grills. Home deliveries must be placed outside the premises and residents be asked to collect the items only after disinfecting those, the advisory said.

It directed the societies to ask the residents to give leave with pay to domestic workers who work in several houses. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP from Assam, Ripun Bora commissioned Rs 1 crore from his MPLADS funds for combating COVID-19.

Bora, also the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president, told PTI he also donated his one month’s salary of Rs 1 lakh and his wife Monika Bora’s ex-MLA monthly pension of Rs 45,000 to the Assam Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for COVID-19.

Stringent action against those Manipur launches website to help those stranded outside spreading fake news : M’laya police Correspondent

Correspondent SHILLONG, MAR 29: The Meghalaya police on Sunday warned of stringent action under relevant provision of law against those spreading fake news in the social media The warning came after several messages on social media doing the rounds of COVID -19 positive cases emerging in the state.

Assistant Inspector General of Police GK Iangrai informed that one of

the rumours being circulated is of reports suggesting that the virus may have entered our state and it will start showing itself in the coming week. Iangrai said another fake news is of some patients in Nongpoh starting to exhibit Covid-19 symptoms. “The other rumour is that an individual who stayed in Bangalore with one person who was tested positive for COVID-19 and that the person has returned to Tura but the whereabouts are not known and police are

searching for the individual,” he said. Iangrai said that both the messages are fake and requested the public to refrain from circulating or sharing the above messages. The police officer also appealed to the public that if any information or message is circulated through social media, to verify first with the official social media account of Meghalaya Police and to not share any rumours or fake news as it will create unnecessary disorder or panic in the State.

COVID-19: Assam student tests negative

GUWAHATI, MAR 29 (AGENCIES): After that videos went viral on social media that a youth from Assam who had recently returned from Israel tested positive of coronavirus, it was reported that the test reports came out negative.

According to Shillong Times report, a meritorious student from Assam’s Baksa, who is pursuing his higher study in Israel and returned to home a few days ago due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, has reportedly, tested negative. His sample

was tested in the Guwahati Medical College & Hospital after he had shown some symptoms of the dreaded virus infection. On Saturday, the GMCH authority, reportedly, confirmed that the 27-year-old youth was not infected by the deadly virus. The youth had studied in IIT Guwahati and gone to Israel for his further studies. He had passed some days in quarantine as per the coronavirus protocol. However, his acquaintance, who is from Uttar Pradesh, has reportedly, tested COVID-19 positive.

Mizoram COVID-19 patient’s kin discharged after testing Aizawl, Mar 29 (PTI): The wife and two children of the lone COVID-19 patient from Mizoram were discharged from a state-run hospital here after they tested negative for the disease, a health official said on Sunday.

The trio was admitted to the isolation ward of the Zoram Medical College (ZMC) after the pastor, who returned from the Netherlands, tested positive for COVID-19 on March 25, he said.

The samples of the woman and the two children were sent to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital for tests and reports have come negative, the official said.

They will be placed under home quarantine and the local task force on COVID-19 will monitor them, he said.

The condition of the COVID-19 patient is improving and he is out of critical state, health officials said.

The health department has traced other persons who came in contact with him, they said.

One person was on Saturday admitted to the isolation ward of ZMC after he exhibited coronaviruslike symptoms, the officials said.

Samples of 12 persons have been sent to Silchar for tests and results are awaited, they added.

IMPHAL, Mar 29: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh launched on Sunday a website www.tengbang.in to address grievances and help Manipuris stranded outside the state due to the nationwide lockdown to check spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

The website was developed by CubeTen in coordination with state IT department free of cost as part of their CSR activity.

It was launched at a simple function held at Chief Minister’s Secretariat today.

Speaking at the function, Singh said that the website was launched with an aim to reach out to the Manipuris who are stranded outside the state and require help to overcome various hardships in such difficult times due to the nationwide lockdown and outbreak of COVID-19.

He maintained that the website was integrated with a payment gateway so that people who wish to contribute to the Chief Minister’s

COVID-19 Relief Fund can donate online.

A mobile application of the website will also be available soon in Google play and Apple store, he added.

Clarifying on rice being distributed free of cost to the people, the chief minister said that it was announced with an objective to work for the welfare of the people in such hard times.

He requested the cabinet ministers and MLAs to distribute the total rice in their respective constituencies free of cost to the people without fail.

A minimum of 20 kilograms must be provided to every family where five members live together, he added. This sums up that each member of the family would get four kilograms of rice.

Singh further clarified that such measure was taken to cover all the people of the state irrespective of having NFSA cards and not in view with the outbreak of the corona virus and total lockdown in the country.

Launch of website to help Manipuris stranded outside because of COVID-19 lockdown. (NP) He said that for those who are living in a rented house, he has directed the respective MLAs to identify the tenants in their constituencies so that the government could provide the rice to them.

Reiterating his appeal to the people to stay at home to break the chain of spreading the corona virus in the state, he said that the government has taken certain steps like food home

to CoronaVirus outbreak, we released them from jail.

The released jail inmates included 10 from Nalbari, 20 from Baksa and 15 from Rangia of Kamrup, an official said.

The Nalbari District Jail Authority dropped the jail inmates at their respective homes.

Altogether 369 undertrials and convicts were lodged at the Nalbari

ment attended the launch function.

Meanwhile, several individuals and organisations have contributed a sum of Rs 12,50,000 to the Chief Minister’s COVID-19 Relief Fund today, a CMO release said.

The chief minister expressed profound gratitude to individuals and organisations who have generously donated to the relief fund till now.

Lockdown: Assam issues passes to feed stray animals Freight trains regularly supplying Guwahati, Mar 29 (PTI): The Assam government is issuing passes to animal welfare organisations and individuals for feeding stray animals during the 21-day nationwide lockdown imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus, officials said on Sunday.

The lockdown entered the fifth day on Sunday.

“Passes have been issued to animal lovers but they should maintain social distancing and follow other guidelines,” an official said.

The animal lovers are undertaking social media campaigns urging people to feed the stray animals who earlier survived on leftovers from restaurants that are now shut due to the

lockdown.

“We are taking forward the campaign to feed stray animals by urging volunteers to join us,” PAWS Foundation Managing Trustee Indira Amma told PTI. More than 90 volunteers of the animal welfare organisation are feeding stray animals in several parts of Guwahati and its suburbs, she said.

“We do not want to be in conflict with the administration but sought their cooperation in this regard.

It has issued passes to our volunteers so that they feed the stray animals by maintaining social distancing,” Amma said.

She said that the organisation is urging people to give donations in the form of dog food or rice.

“We are identifying the areas and assigning volunteers to distribute cooked food to the stray animals.

It is heartening to see young people come out on the streets to feed the creatures,” Amma said.

Another animal welfare organisation, Just Be Friendly (JBF) also launched a social media campaign ‘Lockdown Saviour of Animals’ urging people to put a bowl of water and food outside the gates of their houses.

JBF chief functionary Shashanka Shekhar Datta urged people to take a picture of the act and share it on the social media “so that others are inspired”.

“We will do our best to help these innocent voiceless animals. It will be effective if

we work together as rational living beings to save other creatures,” he said.

Individuals like journalists Karishma Hasnat and Nandan Pratim Sarma Bordoloi have also taken up the task of feeding neighbourhood street dogs.

“There are about eight of them near my house and a few more within 100 metres. Two of us from the locality have taken up the task of cooking food and feeding the animals. I am trying to get a pass from the administration,” Hasnat said.

Bordoloi tweeted urging people not to waste food and instead give it to neighbourhood stray animals. The journalist said he is feeding the stray animals and urged others to do the same.

Over 5,000 people who recently COVID-19: 45 undertrials released in Assam entered Tripura under lens: official

Guwahati, Mar 29 (PTI): The Nalbari District Jail Authority on Sunday released 45 undertrials as per a Supreme Court directive to decongest prisons in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Jail officials said the 45 inmates were from Nalbari, Kamrup and Baksa districts of Assam.

After the guidelines of the Supreme Court in view of the situation due

delivery services to provide essential items to people at their doorsteps.

Informing about the COVID-19 patient who is undergoing medical treatment at JNIMS, the chief minister said that the patient was improving and is stable now.

He urged people to pray for the speedy recovery of the patient.

Some MLAs and top officials of the state govern-

District Jail as against the capacity to keep 155 prisoners.

Out of the total inmates, 63 persons have been convicted in various cases and 13 are women.

On Saturday, the Tezpur Central Jail released 41 prisoners as per the apex courts order to contain the spread of COVID-19.

On March 23, the Supreme Court had directed all states and Union Ter-

ritories to constitute highlevel committees to consider releasing on parole or interim bail prisoners and undertrials for offences entailing up to 7-year jail term to decongest prisons in the wake of CoronaVirus pandemic.

The top court had said overcrowding of prisons is a matter of serious concern, particularly in the present context of COVID-19.

Agartala, Mar 29 (PTI): Tripura Health Secretary Debasish Basu said the state administration was keeping an eye on the movement and health condition of 5,316 people who have recently entered the state from elsewhere, as part of its measures to check the spread of COVID-19.

Of them, 49 have been placed under institutional quarantine and the rest under home quarantine, Basu said. “A total of 5,316 passengers are under surveillance. We have started identifying people who have entered Tripura from outside recently, and will soon have details of their travel history,” he said. The state health secretary also said that adequate number of protective gears for doctors and other healthcare professionals have arrived in the state from Kolkata by chopper.

essential commodities: NFR

Guwahati, Mar 29 (PTI): Freight trains run by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) are regularly supplying essential commodities amid the nationwide lockdown imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus, an official of the railway zone said on Sunday.

Foodgrains, salt, sugar, coal, fertilisers and petroleum products are being unloaded at several sidings, NFR spokesperson Subhanan Chanda said.

Railway employees are providing essential services at goods sheds and stations while control offices are operational 24/7 to ensure smooth movement of freight trains, he said. The workers are being thermal screen

before the commencement of their duties, they are working with masks on, practicing social distancing and regularly washing their hands, Chanda said.

He said that railway locomotives, coaches and residential colonies are being sanitised.

Doctors and paramedical personnel at railway hospitals are being trained to treat COVID-19 patients, Chanda said.

He said that railway staff in various divisions is making masks and sanitisers for use by on-duty workers.

Essential commodities are being home delivered at the colonies to prevent people from venturing out during the lockdown, Chanda added.

Vilina (Alina) On your birthday always remember how lucky you are to be surrounded by everyone who loves you. You’re the twinkle of our eyes, the hope of our hearts and the dream of our souls. Seek for the stars and I believe you will reach the sky! May your lucky star above shine brightly down to bless all your cherished dreams today and crown then with success. Wish you all the nicest things on your birthday. “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” From, Angu Kheka $ Ani Aki

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

5

lockout has created immense PM apologises for tough decisions during lockdown Sudden panic and confusion: Rahul to PM

to learn of these instances.

This is very unfortunate. We need to understand that in the current circumstances, we need to ensure social distance, not human or emotional distance. These people are not criminals, “ he said.

He pointed out that these people are merely suspected to be infected with the virus. “These people have isolated and quarantined themselves to protect other people from getting infected,” he said.

“Coronavirus is bent on killing people therefore entire humanity must unite and resolve to eliminate it,” he said in the address that lasted more than 30 minutes and featured his interaction with two former coronavirus patients and two doctors.

He said while talks on a variety of issues in the programme, this month, he will restrict himself to coronavirus as it would not be appropriate to talk of other things. The lockdown is a

means to protect yourself, he said.

“You have to protect yourself and your family.

For the next many days, you have to continue displaying this patience; abide by the ‘Lakshman Rekha’,” he stressed.

In a stern warning to those not following rules during the 21-day lockdown, the prime minister said no one wants to overstep the law and break rules wilfully.

“But there are some who are doing so, since they are not trying to understand the gravity of the matter.

To them I will say that if they don’t comply with the lockdown rule, it will be difficult to save ourselves from the scourge of coronavirus,” he said.

“The world over, many people nursed this delusion (that they will not be affected by coronavirus) All of them are regretting now ... those breaking the rules are playing with their lives,” he said.

Modi also referred to “daily life heroes” who are helping people run their daily lives smoothly. These include plumbers, electricians, grocery shop owners, e commerce delivery personnel and those maintaining telecom and internet services. He said India has been able to fight a battle on such a massive scale, only due to the zeal and grit of front-line warriors such as

doctor, nurses, para-medic personnel, Aasha and Anganwadi workers and sanitation staff.

“The country is also concer ned about your health. Keeping that in mind , for around 20 lakhs colleagues from these fields, the government has announced a health insurance cover of up to Rs 50 lakh, so that in this battle, you can lead the country with greater self confidence,” he said.

The prime minister also urged people to utilise the time spent at home in re-engaging themselves in old hobbies an reconnecting with old friends.

During the programme, Modi invited coronavirus victim Ramagampa Teja to share his experience on Mann ki Baat. Teja said he was initially frightened but felt reassured because of doctors and hospital staff.

PM also spoke with Agra’s Ashok Kapoor who along with entire family including young grandson was infected by coronavirus.

Kapoor, a shoes manufacturer, said his two sons, family member caught the virus in Italy where they had attended a footwear trade fare and infected others upon returning.

The prime minister told Kapoor to spread awareness about anti-coronavirus measures in Agra and use social media for the purpose.

labourers are undertaking arduous journey to reach their home states. The Gandhi scion said the labourers have been rendered vulnerable without their daily wages or access to nutrition and basic services.

It is important that we help such sections find shelter and provide them with money directly into their bank accounts to help them tide over the next few months, he said.

The Congress leader added that a complete lockdown will almost certainly lead to millions of unemployed youths rushing to their villages, thus increasing the risk of infecting their parents and the elderly population living in

villages. “This will result in a catastrophic loss of life,” he noted.

Gandhi called for a nuanced approach that takes the complex realities of our people into consideration.

“Our priority must be to protect and isolate the elderly and vulnerable from the virus, and to clearly and strongly communicate to the young the dangers of proximity to older people,” he said.

With fresh deaths in six states, the death toll from COVID-19 climbed to 25 in the country and the total number of cases to 979 on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry.

Military, defence ministry employees to donate one day’s salary to COVID-19 fund

Centre issues guidelines for decontamination

Rly resumes parcel van service to ensure flow of essentials to local markets

PM interacts with over 200 people daily on COVID-19

says India will surely defeat coronavirus

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sought the nation’s forgiveness for imposing a monumental lockdown on the country, saying it was a question of life and death and expressed confidence that “we will definitely win the battle” against the coronavirus menace that has claimed 25 lives in India so far.

In his monthly Mann ki Baat radio address to the nation, Modi also praised the front-line workers in the fight against the virus as well as countless workers in the essential services who are ensuring the country doesn’t come to a complete standstill in the 21-day lockdown announced on March 24.

“I seek forgiveness ...

I strongly feel, you will forgive me. When I see my poor brothers and sisters, then I definitely feel that they would say what kind of prime minister is this who has put us in this trouble. I specially seek their forgiveness. You had to undergo problems. I understand but there is no other way out to fight the coronavirus for a country with a population of 130 crore,” he said. “But this is a battle for life and

Narendra Modi (File)

death.” According to the Health Ministry Update released an hour before Modi’s address, India has recorded a total of 979 cases and 25 deaths so far.

The prime minister said looking at what the world is going through, this (lockdown) was the “only way left.”

“After all, the safety of you and your families has to be ensured. Once again, I apologise for any inconvenience, any hardship caused to you,” he said.

To drive home his point, Modi referred to an ancient Indian adage that means an illness and its scourge should be nipped in the bud because when it becomes incurable with passage of time its treatment is very difficult.

He also described as “unfortunate” incidents where some of those suspected coronavirus carriers under home quarantine are being ill-treated or ostracised by others.

“I am greatly pained

Rajnath Singh (File)

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): The Army, Navy and the Indian Air Force as well as employees of the defence ministry have decided to donate one day’s salary totalling around Rs 500 crore to the relief fund announced

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to help fight the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

Separately, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that he will donate

one month’s salary to the fund.

On Saturday, Modi announced setting up of the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM-CARES) to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

A number of union ministers, private entities, industrialists and government organisations have responded to the prime minister’s announcement and

contributed to the fund.

So far, India has recorded a total of 979 positive cases of coronavirus and 25 deaths.

“I have decided to donate my one month’s salary to the PM-CARES Fund.

You can also contribute in this fund and strengthen India’s resolve to fight against the menace of COVID-19,” the defence minister said.

Singh said he has also asked the Chairman MPLADS (Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme) to release Rs 1 crore to the PM-CARES Fund.

A defence ministry spokesperson said Singh has approved a proposal for contribution of one day’s salary by employees of the ministry to the Fund.

“It is estimated that around Rs 500 crore will be collectively provided by the Defence Ministry to the Fund from various wings, including Army, Navy, Air Force, Defence PSUs and others,” he said.

The employees’ contribution is voluntary and those desirous of opting out will be exempted.

New Delhi, March 29 (IANS): The Central government has issued guidelines on decontamination of common public places, including offices, in the wake of coronavirus.

Since the virus survives on objects for a varied periods of time, it becomes pertinent to disinfect it with chemicals in order to kill it.

According to the guidelines, office spaces, including conference rooms should be cleaned in the morning and evening.

“If contact surface is visibly dirty, it should be cleaned with soap and water prior to disinfection,” the guidelines stated.

The workers have also been directed to wear disposable rubber boots, gloves and a three-layer mask while undertaking the task.

Since outdoor areas have less risk than indoors due to air currents and exposure to sunlight, cleaning and disinfection efforts should only be targeted to frequently touched and contaminated surfaces.

“These include bus stops, railway platforms, parks and roads,” it added.

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): Indian Railways has decided to run parcel vans to keep up uninterrupted flow of essential commodities in the country during the ongoing lockdown to contain coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, officials said Sunday.

By suspending passenger trains from March 22, the Railways had also by default suspended parcel vans attached to them carrying perishable items, mostly daily essential needs like vegetables, dairy items, and fish.

Officials said special Parcel express trains shall run on the New DelhiGauhati, New DelhiMumbai, New Delhi-Kalyan, New Delhi-Howrah, Chandigarh-Jaipur and Moga-Chhangsari routes.

They said it was necessary to resume parcel van services because essential commodities were in short supply in local markets as most of the labour engaged in loading, unloading had returned to their villages owing to the nationwide lockdown.

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said the sudden lockout announced by the central government to combat novel coronavirus has created immense “panic” and “confusion”.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he highlighted the plight of the poor and called for steps other than total lockdown announced by some developed nations to tackle the deadly disease.

“It is critical for us to understand that India’s conditions are unique. We will be required to take different steps than other large countries who are following a total lockdown strategy,” he said.

Gandhi said the number of poor people in India who are dependent on a daily income is too large to unilaterally shut down all economic activities in the wake of the pandemic.

“The consequences of a complete economic shut down will disastrously amplify the death toll arising from COVID-19,” he feared.

“The sudden lockdown has created immense panic and confusion,” he said, adding factories, small industries and construction sites have closed, and tens of thousands of migrant

Rahul Gandhi (File)

Representational image

With ample availability of parcel vans, sittingcum-luggage rakes and locomotives because of the suspension of passenger services, railways will now run such vans on a timetable on identified routes.

Lack of traffic on tracks will also make it easy to send parcel vans across speedily.

It has invited bookings for parcel vans, which will carry essential items like medical supplies, medical equipment, food in small parcel sizes will be transported in them.

Respective divisions will now need to coor-

dinate with local district administration and ensure deployment of labourers at parcel depots and goodsshed to ensure smooth loading and unloading of parcel vans. Also, until the nationwide lockdown remains, railways could also utilise spare passenger coaches for temporarily housing labourers.

Northern Railways has decided to run Parcel Special Trains to carry small quantities of essential items like dairy products, medical equipments and medicines, groceries, edible oil , other food items.

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with over 200 people on a daily basis to get a first-hand feedback on India’s fight against the coronavirus, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on Sunday.

It said the prime minister’s interactions include phone calls to governors, chief ministers and state health ministers.

Modi also reaches out to doctors, nurses, health workers and sanitation staff in various parts of the country over the phone “to encourage them and pay gratitude to their yeomen service to the nation and society”, a statement issued by the PMO said.

It pointed out that Modi also interacts with people from various walks of life through video-conferences in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The prime minister telephonically reaches out to some of those infected with the coronavirus and some of those who have recovered from its effects in order to keep an update on their progress.

275 Iran-returned Indians reach Jodhpur for quarantine five migrants run over in Haryana

Medics spray disinfectants on belongings of passengers, who were airlifted from Iran, before being sent for a mandatory isolation period to an Indian Army Wellness Facility in Jodhpur. (PTI)

JAIPUR/NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): A batch of 275 Indians, who were recently evacuated from coronavirus-hit Iran, arrived in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur from Delhi for quaran-

tine on Sunday morning, an official said.

He said a preliminary screening of the passengers was conducted at the airport and thereafter, they were shifted to the Army

Wellness Facility set up at the Jodhpur Military Station.

Additional Chief Secretary (Health) of Rajasthan Rohit Kumar Singh said of the 275 passengers,

133 were female and 142 male, including two infants and four children.

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri tweeted, saying the Iran-returned Indians were taken

from Delhi to Jodhpur on SpiceJet and IndiGo aircraft.

“Operation Namaste!

Efforts to safeguard Indian citizens against Covid19 continue,” he wrote on Twitter.

“The 275 Indians who were evacuated from Iran have been screened & shifted by IndiGo and SpiceJet aircraft to Army Wellness Centre at Jodhpur for quarantine,” the minister added.

India is currently under a 21-day lockdown till April 14 to curb the spread of the coronavirus and consequently, all international and domestic commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this period.

According to the Union Health Ministry, 979 people have tested positive for the virus in India so far and 25 deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported.

GURUGRAM, MAR 29 (AGENCIES): Five migrants from Uttar Pradesh, including a 1-year-old child, were killed and 15 others were seriously injured after they were hit by a truck on the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway near Manesar on Sunday.

The accident occurred around 1 am near the Bilaspur toll in Panchgaon. The identity of the deceased and the injured, who were headed for their native village amid the nation-wide curfew, is yet to be ascertained. The truck, carrying vegetables, was allegedly being driven at a high speed when the driver lost control of the vehicle and rammed it into the group. The driver allegedly fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle.

The preliminary investigation also hints at the lack of proper lighting on the expressway as a key reason behind the accident.

Police took the victims to the hospital. According to sources, four migrants were

seriously injured and were struggling for their lives.

An FIR has been registered against the truck driver under sections 279, 336, 337, 304(ii) of the IPC at the Bilaspur police station.

The truck driver, identified as Rakesh Yadav, a native of district Bulandshahar in UP, has been nabbed. He was also injured and is being treated in a hospital, said police.

“We are trying to identify the deceased and inform the families. We have been issuing an appeal to people to not march back home on highways but desperation to get back has cost them their lives,” said ASI Rajender Singh, the investigating officer. Thousands of migrants, mostly daily wage labourers, across India are headed to their villages in UP and Bihar as the country announced a nation-wide curfew to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

On Saturday, chaos, confusion and a stampedelike situation prevailed at

the Delhi-Ghaziabad border as thousands of migrant workers fought amongst themselves to get seats on the limited number of buses the Uttar Pradesh administration operated on Saturday to ferry them to the hinterlands.

Thousands of daily wagers and labourers from Delhi, Haryana and even Punjab reached Anand Vihar, Ghazipur and Ghaziabad’s Lal Kuan area after taking arduous treks of many kilometres on foot to take buses to their respective native places. But the people, in hordes, far outnumbered the seats on the buses, resulting in many of them travelling on rooftops after every inch inside was crammed with passengers and their luggage.

Social distancing norms seemed to have been discarded as they squeezed into the buses. Some wore face masks but most had handkerchiefs tied over their noses and mouths to protect them from the infection.

6

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Covid-19 lockdown to change contours

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 113 Dimapur, MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

Humanity locked out

A

s the 21-day national lockdown entered its fourth day, a new dimension has posed the most serious of problems which is, the fate of several thousands or a few lakh daily wage migrant labourers who find themselves locked down in Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat etc. The sight of fleeing migrant daily wage labourers, some with women and children continues and it is reported that several had died out of starvation and exhaustion after trekking nearly two hundred miles. The migrant labourers were caught in the lockdown, left with no work and so, no wages to pay for their food.

Migrant labourers who were returning to their homes in UP, Bihar, Odisha and Bengal. The exodus of such a huge number has Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar very worried due to the mass herding which opens the biggest threat to community transmission; whereas the lockdown advisory is to ensure social distancing( keeping at least one meter distance from each other). Nitish Kumar had said his government will not allow the migrant labourers to return and instead urged upon them to remain where they were stranded by promising financial assistance for their lodging and food. Whether this will have any impact to reverse the exodus remains to be seen because the host states such as Delhi or Harayana etc have yet to actually work out practical solution in providing lodging in habitable places for such a huge number.

As thousands of trucks and buses requisitioned by Delhi and UP states transport several thousand migrant labourers herded together like sardines, the spectre of the virus taking on Stage 3 or community outbreak has raised serious alarm. Ninety percent of India’s workforce is employed in the informal sector. Despite their preponderant size, these workers command little to no social security. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey, for the year 20172018 average wage earnings per day by casual labourers in urban areas clocks in between Rs 314 to Rs 335 among men and between Rs 186 to Rs 201 for women. No wonder the migrant labourers have been compelled under the circumstances, to walk hundreds of kilometres in order to avoid starvation and death. The Central government had overlooked the problem for whatever reasons when prime minister Narendra Modi announced the 21-day lockdown.

The focus instead had been the plight of trade and industry for which the finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had recently announced a slew of measures. Though the finance minister announced the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana for those whose lives have been severely impacted by the lockdown, it failed to address the main problem faced by migrant labourers. The government enhanced regular wages received under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme from Rs 182 a day to Rs 202 a day. However, the reality is that all such schemes have grounded to a halt due to the lockdown. Even with regard to the handling of ensuring regular supplies of essential commodities for a huge population of 130 crore people, the centre is still grappling with the humungous task of evolving an effective transporting and distributing networks which has been nearly paralysed due to high handedness of police in several states in enforcing the lockdown.

Scramble for food items in ration shops is another headache for the administration but the poor daily wage earners continue to face the problem of not having the money to buy food items.

DailyDevotion Our Lord’s Surprise Visits You also be ready… —Luke 12:40 A Christian worker’s greatest need is a readiness to face Jesus Christ at any and every turn. This is not easy, no matter what our experience has been. This battle is not against sin, difficulties, or circumstances, but against being so absorbed in our service to Jesus Christ that we are not ready to face Jesus Himself at every turn. The greatest need is not facing our beliefs or doctrines, or even facing the question of whether or not we are of any use to Him, but the need is to face Him. Jesus rarely comes where we expect Him; He appears where we least expect Him, and always in the most illogical situations. The only way a servant can remain true to God is to be ready for the Lord’s surprise visits. This readiness will not be brought about by service, but through intense spiritual reality, expecting Jesus Christ at every turn. This sense of expectation will give our life the attitude of childlike wonder He wants it to have. If we are going to be ready for Jesus Christ, we have to stop being religious. In other words, we must stop using religion as if it were some kind of a lofty lifestyle— we must be spiritually real.

If you are avoiding the call of the religious thinking of today’s world, and instead are “looking unto Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2), setting your heart on what He wants, and thinking His thoughts, you will be considered impractical and a daydreamer. But when He suddenly appears in the work of the heat of the day, you will be the only one who is ready. You should trust no one, and even ignore the finest saint on earth if he blocks your sight of Jesus Christ.

Quotes

When rich people fight wars with one another, poor people are the ones to die. ~ Jean-Paul Sartre

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

P

eople of the world would face lower interest earnings, higher commodity prices, bank charges, rail and transport fares, taxes, tolls, physician’s fees, tuition fees and many more. As the people and governments are likely to lose the large companies would want more pound of flesh.

Lockdown needs relook India, like the world, faces a deep crisis as shipping charges reach critical highs and lows amid less known impact of corona and government revenues slump.

It may impact trading and governance costs.

The global G20’s $ 5 trilion package, US congress $ 2.2 trilion domestic package, Australian $ 189 billion rescue offer, Indian package of Rs 1.7 trillion (lakh crore), UK’s self-employed pound 2500 a month income support scheme and many more, the world is gearing up to fight the predicted downturn.

The UK scheme is stated to cover 95 percent; the Indian about 55 percent population or 80 crore people – largest in the world. It is varied as it covers women, registered labourers, MNREGA wagers, self-help groups and farmers and is laced with free 5 kg wheat and rice for three months.

The RBI has meanwhile infused Rs 1 lakh crore liquid-

ity through short-term variable repo-auction. It would infuse funds to the banks. It cuts repo rate to 4.4 percent.

The FM and RBI together give about Rs 2.7 lakh crore or about 1.5 percent of the GDP. To g e t h e r d i f f e r e n t schemes aim at sustaining the most vulnerable people of the world.

The G-20 announcements with US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Arabian King Salman come amid 21000 covid-19 deaths and over millions people locked down in the west, in addition India’s over a billion.

The US plan to ensure $ 1200 each direct payment to those who earn up to $ 75,000 with an additional $ 500 per child. It may benefit 90 percent of Americans.

One significant aspect, unlike the 2008 Lehman sub-prime crash incentivisation, it so far excludes the corporate.

Even Finance Minister N Sitharaman’s package is silent on corporate packages.

The Rs 15,000 crore health package, however, would help industries producing various medical aids.

The packages indicate that overall poverty or problems of the working classes have increased during the past

over a decade. Their savings are at stake and the cost of living rose manifold. Various UN and World Bank reports indicate it.

France and many other European countries had been facing people’s ire against severe and harmful bankisation of the economies. The lowering of interest rate on saving, rising fees and taxes are causing discontent.

Even the Economic Survey 2019-20 speaks about the problems in India.

The lockdown in India is hitting public and private sector companies.

Transporters are severely hit. Most airlines in InShivaji dia have announced 15 percent wage cut.

The government has come out with advisories to employers to pay wages. But as lockdown hits their income, it may not be easy for many to meet the commitment. The finance minister’s package may take care of that for the most vulnerable section for three months.

The global and domestic Indian packages are aimed at boosting sustenance as well expenditure by people by consuming more. The manufacturers are expected to benefit through higher consumption and rise in sales.

How India would benefit from the G-20 stimulus

is to be seen. Leaders are quick to meet online. But it will take time for the situation to normalize. On March 26, the rating agency Moody’s estimates the G-20 GDP to contract by 0.5 percent, the US by 2 percent and the Eurozone by 2.2 percent.

Moody’s revises India growth from 5.4 to 5.3 percent in 2020. The S&P predicts it at 5.2 percent.

A silver lining is that current account deficit even as corona was hitting the world reduced to 0.2 percent of GDP or $ 1.4 billion as trade deficit comes down to $ 9.8 billion in February, according to RBI data Sarkar on March 12.

Out of the 30 major items, 16 export items and 14 imported goods expanded in February. Imports rise by 2.5 percent but petroleum imports come down.

However, the scenario may change as the world is in lockdown uncertainty.

The airlines have grounded and ships are anchored.

The shipping industry hit by lockdown has approached the government for relief.

Ports are hit by steep drop in volumes owing to global slowdown.

Maritime industry is further hit by rising freight rates and overall weak demand. Shipping charges have increased since January as the

new International maritime Organisation (IMO) 2020 low sulphur regulation and higher charges came into vogue. This is to impact world trade even beyond corona.

Commodity prices are to rise as selling prices include FOB (free on board) in most cases. It may spike oil prices too despite the silver lining of a 30-year-low of around $ 30 a barrel. Even inland or coastal shipping charges may go up, which now the Indian shipping companies are pining for their survival.

World Trade Organisation statistics show merchandise trade slumped by 0.2 percent in the third quarter of 2019. For 2020, it says growth may fall further.

The drop in the WTO barometer since November has been driven by additional declines in indices for container shipping (94.8) and agricultural raw materials (90.9), as well as the plateauing of the automotive products index (100.0).

However, the Goods Trade Barometer will be influenced by the economic impact of COVID-19.

Different government packages have their economic and social costs. The corporate packages that ruined the post 2008 economies may follow. In a world of production holiday, problems are to

mount. Nobody gives wages or packages for free. The G-20 or individual nations are facing revenue contraction.

Those enjoying working from home or suffering wage losses may have grimmer future. Strangely enough India’s rich except few exceptions, corp, movie or sport heroes have not offered a bit from their pocket.

There is nothing like a freebie. Interest cuts and some wage cuts have already been announced. Even some national governments are finding it difficult to pay or delaying salaries.

Most governments have not announced any cut or relief in taxation. Despite that revenue realizations are to slump and hit health and other welfare measures.

People of the world would face lower interest earnings, higher commodity prices, bank charges, rail and transport fares, taxes, tolls, physician’s fees, tuition fees and many more. As the people and governments are likely to lose the large companies would want more pound of flesh.

Amid rise in world poverty, fall in government revenues, corona coming as great leveler, may change contours of economy and politics. India would not be an exception. A relook at lockdown is needed.

Post-mortem IHRC on fundamental rights of a human ‘There is power in Jesus’ name

W

e live in unprecedented times and thus we must act in a similar manner. The Nagaland State Board of the International Human Rights Council on its humble part has been trying to help out the administration whenever we can no matter how insignificant its role maybe compared to the mammoth task undertaken by the Government. We are especially grateful to the frontline workers led by health experts and caregivers who have been called upon to carry out such an enormous task against an unseen and a ruthless enemy. Our salute also goes out to the police who have the dual difficulty of not only making sure that the law is upheld but these days as never before have to act in a humane way beyond their usual call of acting as law enforcers. In all of this let us also not forget those who are making sure the essential needs of the people are met, be it transporters, shopkeepers, delivery boys and members of the media.These people are as essential in the collective fight against this new and dangerous virus that has attacked the world so suddenly. Above all we pray that our leaders become exactly that and unlike before, act with the selflessness asked of them and that their decisions are based solely on science and no other motive.

Understanding that the society and the Government act together in a manner which has never been done before, we as a Human Rights organisation nevertheless would request everyone to uphold the core tenets of Human Rights while carrying out the tasks allowed to everyone be it the individual, the society or the Government.

As an organisation dedicated to upholding human rights under all circumstances it thus is our duty to point out where we all as a collective whole need to improve and be very aware that the fundamental rights of a human is not being violated in these unique times.

1. We request the Government as they have tried to be so far to be transparent in all their dealings and interactions. We call upon the leadership of this State led by the Chief Minister, the administration led by the Chief Secretary and all the leaders of Civil society from Statewide organisations to locality and village bodies to be more transparent and put out precise information and guidelines as much as possible.

In doing so everyone concerned must use all media platforms including Social media at their disposal.

2.There are many cancer patients

who are undergoing Chemo courses from different hospitals in Guwahati.

There are also medicines which are not available in Dimapur. Due to the lockdown, these patients have become completely helpless. There are also cases of heart patients who have pacemakers fitted. The government should keep an ambulance at standby for any emergencies and also ensure that the patients don’t face problem to get their medicines.

3.There are thousands of college and school children from other districts who are stranded in Dimapur and in Kohima District. Due to short notice of lockdown,and all public transport vehicles got suspended across the State .

They are facing difficulties to buy rice and vegetables for survival.The Govt should provide rice and other necessary essentials under special case even if they don’t have a BPL card .

4. The stranded people at Railway Station should be provided food and shelter. There are also cases of people who are stranded at hotels and have run out of money. The Government should identify those through helpline numbers and ensure their safety. Because the stranded people trapped in this situation are not by choice but by situation . The homeless people should be provided food and necessary arrangements made for accommodation because they’re the most vulnerable and prone to this deadly disease.

5. Some families are fully dependent on daily wage this includes around thousands Auto Driver’s and in this situation they may not be able to even buy food. The government should atleast make basic arrangements specially for them. For this, the village authorities or police may make announcement through PA (Public Announcement) system and provide necessary item.

6. Village guards and volunteers should also follow the precautions and standard operating measures while doing service. Because nobody is spared in this juncture. The volunteers manning the colony/village gates should practice social distancing and ensure that citizens are not harassed .

7. There is a scarcity of Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs) for the medical personnels. We appeal to the state government to make it available to be distributed to all the District Hospitals for all the medical personnels who are at the frontline battling this deadly disease . While not forgetting to order

extra materials incase of shortage.

8. The state government should make an urgency of setting up COVID19 testing centre in Nagaland.

9. There is shortage of masks in the market.The Govt can make use of those people who were trained under various Tailoring projects of skill development by giving them certain allowances and materials , an alternative way to distribute it freely to all the blocks and villages.

10. The idea of deduction of one day salary from the government employees whichever department it maybe should be dropped. Instead, the traffic, police and medical personnels should be given additional special allowances during this period.

11. Many medical personnel of Private hospitals don’t have proper equipments to combat Covid19. We appeal to the State government to take urgent note of this issue and address the problems faced by private hospitals.

12. There should be a separate timing for the grocery shops to collect ration from distributors or wholeseller (i.e between 2PM-4 PM). If needed the Area GB & Council should co-operate to make it in the time of survival.

13. Helpline number by village or area authorities should be given so that no one may die out of starvation in lockdown.

14. The public should extend help to anyone in need particularly your next door if they need food and medicine or should inform authorities for help.

15. There should be common helpline number for instances 911 or 181.

16. The District Administration along with Municipal Council should fumigate the streets and public places at large scale at regular intervals.

We all need to know that this is not the time to blame game but to be sensitive and remain safe. And also help other’s to survive in this pandemic state. The Interantional Human Rights Council as an organisation requests each an every citizen of Nagaland to care for each other and act selflessly towards fellow human beings.To show solidarity with everyone from institutions to individuals as we have never done before so that we come out of this unique time in history as a more mature and healthy State.

Akavi N Zhimomi, President, Nagaland State Board, International Human Rights Council, (akavinzhimominaga111@gmail.com)

to save us in uncertain days’

T

he name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

Prov 18:10 KJV. To protect ourselves from a hot Sun heat, we need to run to a shade. In the days of rains, we need to run into a house that has roof. In times of windstorms, we need to run into a strong structure that can withstand the blowing windstorms that bit. In times of sickness, we need physicians for cure. In times of hunger and thirst, we need bread and water. But all of these have their own limit.

They cannot go beyond their limitations. When terrible trying days come, we need someone else who can save us. Truly, one terrible time – PANDAMIC COVID 19 - has come into our world today. It has taken many lives away. It has left many homes devastated. Everywhere, hundreds of thousands are desperately struggling for their lives. Scientists, Doctors and many more are working on it day and night. This corona virus has no respect for any one. It will get anyone that comes on its way. It is roaming like a hungry roaring lion. It has left many wounded badly. It has gone out quickly towards all directions. It is perhaps approaching towards you too.

Who can stop this beast- the COVID-19?

These days are uncertain days for many. The world is living in fear of COVID-19 and most part of the world is locked down for fear of it.

Because, this dreaded ghost will not spare anyone whom it comes across. What shall we do before or after this unwelcome guest comes to our homes? Is there any means or power that can safeguard us from destruction? The answer is a big “YES” - the name of JESUS CHRIST. In his name, believe, pray and follow the rules.

The twenty-one days of lockdown: A brighter perspective

T

he ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to strong social distancing measures, such as the current 21day lockdown, to slow down its spread and to keep the casualties as low as possible. It is needless to state that the lockdown will have a tremendous impact on our socio-economic life, especially those who earn their livelihoods on a daily basis. As we try to adapt our lives to the disruption caused by the pandemic, here are some positive perspectives we may take from the lockdown: 1. Learning to become

a selfless and a responsible human: As known to everybody, staying at home reduces our chances of contracting COVID-19. Thus, not only will it save your life but also of those around you.

2. Learning to become the best version of yourself: This a great opportunity to refine your skills. For example, believers can meditate on the Bible, preachers can prepare sermons, writers can write more, students can catch up on lessons, musicians can refine their knowledge, etc. You can even learn a new habit.

3. Creating memories with your family: Plan some indoor activities with your family. And, no, I do not mean that you gather your extended families at your place. Just those staying at your home. You can cook and do chores together. Or just let your mom rest. Also, maybe it’s time to declutter your closest and clean the yard. You can also spend time in worship and singing. Simply put, strengthen the family bond.

4. Saving the ecology: With reduced vehicular traffic, the air is cleaner and healthier. And, in

Nagaland, the dust has reduced.

Our lungs feel better. Aren’t we benefiting from that as well?

5. Strengthening your faith as a believer: Most importantly, this pandemic is testing our faith—the faith that we have in Jesus Christ. For it teaches us to walk closer with Him. Remember that going to church does not make you a Christian.

For sure, it is a Christian duty, but duly obeying His word and your undying faith does, nothing else. God bless Nagaland and India!

Rev. J. Thungjamo Lotha

According to the New Testament, God sent His Son on earth to love, heal and save us from the power of sin, sickness and death. His name was JESUS, the CHRIST. This man, Jesus of Nazareth, was God Himself (Jhn 1:1ff).

God finally makes an absolute resolution to provide salvation to all those who believe in the name of JESUS CHRIST (cf.

Acts 4: 12).

At the hearing of this name, “JESUS,” Satan fled, the sick were healed, the blinds recovered their sight, the dead were raised to life, the captives were set free, the lost were found, and the broken hearted, the hopeless, the hapless, the mad etc. were restored to normal condition.

What a powerful name is this – “JESUS!” The name of JESUS is indeed the greatest of all names. The Bible says that – “at the name of JESUS every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that JESUS CHRIST is LORD, to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil 2:10-11 RSV).

What a wonderful name it is – “JESUS!” In time like this, when the world is gone in anguish, let us run into the name of Jesus. This name is the strong tower for our safety. It is for sure that there is power to save in the name of JESUS alone.

Therefore, let us call and hold on to His name for our salvation. As we run in and take shelter in His name, we will be saved. It is wise to lockdown our life and country for fear of COVID 19. But it is wise to open our life and our country for fear of JESUS. For He alone is the ultimate Saviour.

Let Him come in to save.

May God Heal Us and All the Nations in JESUS’ NAME. AMEN. Rev. Seksim Kasar, former general secretary, CNC, NSCN-GPRN

Reader’s Post Sir,

Be just

At the very juncture where survival itself is on the brink of exanimation, playing authority will do more harm than the instant epidemic. It is therefore appealed that if you have been tasked to check the ‘egress and ingress’ within your locality or area, do it rightly. Without the means to meet our basic needs staying indoors will be a death sentence so let us not make it easy for the virus to achieve its purpose. The only thing standing between US and the virus is our humanity so let us make the best of it.

Kitoka Sumi, Diphupar ‘B’ Village

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

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

MHA allows transportation of all goods

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): The Union Home Ministry on Sunday allowed the transportation of all essential and non-essential goods in the country and the use of the State Disaster Response Funds (SDRF) to provide shelter to migrant workers and the homeless stranded due to the lockdown imposed to combat COVID-19.

Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla wrote to chief secretaries of all states and Union territories, asking them to enure that relief camps were set up for homeless people, including migrant labourers, to provide them shelter and food.

“I would also like to inform that the central government has also allowed use of SDRF for homeless people, including migrant labourers, stranded due to lockdown measures, and sheltered in the relief camps and other places for providing them food etc., for the containment of spread of COVID19 virus in the country,” the letter read.

It said the Home Ministry had already issued an order invoking the Disaster Management Act, under which the district authorities were asked to strictly implement additional measures to stop the movement of mi-

GoM reviews situation in the country

Representational image.

grant workers and provide them quarantine facilities, shelter and food, and ensure payment of wages and noneviction by their landlords.

“Its strict implementation needs to be ensured,” the home secretary said in his letter, and added that the district authorities and the field agencies should be informed so as to avoid any ambiguity at the ground level.

The letter made it clear that transportation of all goods, without distinction on grounds of essential and

non-essential, has been allowed.

The home secretary also made it clear that the newspaper delivery supply chain is allowed under exemptions given for print media.

Bhalla added that the entire supply chain of milk collection and distribution, including its packing material, has also been allowed during the lockdown period, along with groceries.

“Groceries, including hygiene products such as hand wash, soaps, disinfec-

tants, body wash, shampoos, surface cleaners, detergents and tissue papers, toothpaste/oral care, sanitary pads and diapers, battery cells, chargers etc.,” are permitted during the lockdown.

The home secretary also included the services of the Indian Red Cross Society under the Establishment of National Disaster Management Authority.

The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has also been exempted and asked to work with bare minimum staff.

A Group of Ministers chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday carried out a comprehensive review of the situation arising out of coronavirus pandemic including treatment of affected people and supplies of petroleum products and essential commodities across the country.

The meeting also deliberated on the issue of a vast numbers of migrant workers taking journeys on foot for hundreds of kilometres in various parts of the country to reach home from urban centres after the 21day nation-wide lockdown came into force.

Sources said the GoM reviewed the entire situation arising out of COVID-19 pandemic across the country.

Home Minister Amit Shah, Consumer Affairs and Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Rural Development Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar attended the meeting.

7

Over 450 newly recruited CAPF doctors asked to join immediately NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): Over 450 doctors recruited recently as medical officers in the CAPFs have been asked to join service “immediately” as the forces are ramping up their healthcare setup to combat COVID-19, a top paramilitary officer said on Sunday.

Retired medical officers have been “alerted” and modalities are being worked on to hire doctors on contractual service to man the chain of the forces’ country-wide hospitals and quarantine centres that have a combined strength of more than 7,200 beds, ITBP Director General (DG) Surjeet Singh Deswal told PTI. “Over 450 doctors who were recruited as medical officers for all the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) recently have been called to join duty immediately...with no loss of time.

“They will enhance our strength in combating the situation arising out of the coronavirus outbreak in the country,” Deswal said.

A senior official said the plan was formulated at the ITBP headquarters and top-level sanctions were obtained from the Union Home Ministry before sum-

moning these doctors.

These doctors, the DG said, were recruited recently by the government for the CAPFs and ITBP was the nodal agency for their recruitment.

The CAPFs have a combined strength of over 2,000 doctors and specialists at present apart from other paramedical staff.

These doctors are being posted to CAPF hospitals and bases near their place of stay so that they can join without having to travel far, the ITBP chief said. The government had recently taken over the chain of 32 CAPF hospitals across the country, with a total capacity of about 1,900 beds, for isolation and treatment of COVID-19 affected patients.

These forces comprise the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Border Security Force (BSF), the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).

Elite counter-terror force National Security Guard (NSG) is also part of this wide setup of medical facilities being prepared in view of the increasing number of cases of coronavirus

infections being reported from across the country.

“We are also preparing modalities to hire doctors on contract to work at our health facilities even as we have alerted those who have retired from service. Those who have superannuated are being asked to remain on standby as their services may be required anytime,” Deswal said.

The ITBP, which is primarily tasked to guard the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, is also running a 1,000-bed quarantine in Delhi’s Chhawla area.

A total of 418 Indians evacuated from Italy using special flights are housed at this facility at present, even as 518 citizens and foreigners have been discharged till now from here.

Deswal said the force, apart from round-the-clock medical monitoring and providing essential services of food and entertainment to the inmates, has now begun counselling them.

“Some of the people who have been evacuated from COVID-19-affected countries and are kept at our centre have high anxiety levels as they have seen devastation all around. That is normal for a human.

India shifts staff in Herat, Jalalabad Maharashtra CM assures Will die of hunger before any disease, to Kabul in view of COVID-19 cases all help to migrant workers say home-bound migrant workers

The sources said the Indian staff from the two consulates were shifted to Kabul as the two provinces do not have adequate medical facilities.

Govt approves 47 private labs for Covid-19 tests New Delhi, Mar 29 (IANS): With the number of Covid-19 cases rising, the government has allowed 47 private labs across the country to conduct tests.

Addressing the media here, R. Ganga Ketkar of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said, “Till today (Sunday) we have conducted 34,931 tests.

The ICMR network’s capacity utilisation is around 30 per cent. We have increased the number of labs. 113 have been made functional and 47 more private labs approved.”

The ICMR has allowed 10 private labs to conduct the tests in Maharashtra, eight each in Delhi and Telangana, five in Haryana, four each in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, two each in Kerala and West Bengal and one each in UP and Odisha.

actual number could be higher as several provinces in the country do not have facilities to carry out lab test to check the infection.

Two foreign diplomats and four officials of the NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan were among the positive cases in the country, as per Afghan media reports.

The sources said the Indian staff from the two consulates were shifted to Kabul as there are no adequate medical facilities in Herat and Jalalabad.

The Indian diplomats and staff in Kabul have been told to take all required precautions to insulate themselves from the virus while carrying out

their normal duties in the embassy.

Herat province shares a long border with Iran which is among the few countries reporting a large number of coronavirus cases and struggling to combat one of the world’s worst outbreaks.

Thousands of Afghans are returning from Iran to Herat in the wake of rapid rise in coronavirus cases in Iran. Over 2,500 people died and more than 35,500 have been infected across Iran since February.

The coronavirus pandemic, which first emerged in Chinese city of Wuhan, has killed nearly 28,000 people and infected close to 600,000 in 183 countries.

er stand during the lockdown. Do not unnecessarily argue with police officials,” he said. He also cautioned people about the possibility of a rise in pneumonia cases in the coming days.

“We need to take extra care of senior citizens, children and pregnant women, who are more vulnerable to coronavirus,” the chief minister said.

“I have been in talks with several leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and even with my cousin (MNS chief) Raj Thackeray. I am thankful to them for the support they have extended,” he said. Thackeray said noted banker Uday Kotak has offered a financial assistance of Rs 10 crore. Many business community people have come forward in this hour of crisis, he said.

Lauding the health and medical care workers, he said, They are the ones who are not at all confused.

They are doing their duty diligently.

Thackeray said those who have returned from abroad should quarantine themselves and if they feel unwell, they should also approach the local physician.

“We have almost completed eight days of the lockdown, need to complete the remaining days. If we manage to do so, it will be an achievement, he said.

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): “We will die of hunger before any disease if we stay here. There is no one to even take care of our cremation,” says migrant worker Savitri, who set on foot for her home in Uttar Pradesh’s Kannauj district amid the coronavirus lockdown even though her destination is over 400 km away.

Savitri (30), who lived in a slum in Rajouri Garden area, had no option but to undertake the arduous trek as the nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic left her jobless and with no means to arrange food for her two small children.

“People are talking about the danger of some virus which can kill all of us.

I don’t understand all these.

As a mother, I am pained when I cannot feed my children. No one is there to help. All are equally worried about their lives,” Savitri told PTI as she walked along the Mathura Highway Road carrying her belongings on her head.

She is among lakhs of migrant labourers who have only one goal ahead: reach their villages at the earliest, come what may.

Though the Delhi and Uttar Pradesh governments have arranged buses to ferry those stranded, many have chosen to walk along. The few buses which were ar-

Migrant workers along with their family members take rest after they set forth to their villages on foot, amid lockdown in wake of coronavirus pandemic, in Ghaziabad. (PTI)

ranged were completely crammed with many people sitting atop them too.

The panicked workers are rushing to their native places even thought shelters are being set up for them in the national capital to stop the mass exodus.

For these workers, the stress of lockdown has overtaken the fear of the disease so much so that they are not taking preventive measures like maintaining social distancing, wearing masks and washing hands regularly to protect themselves from possible infection.

Ashok (25), a construction labourer living in Ismailpur near Badarpur border, has a backpack with

bare essential items and is bound for his hometown in Hardoi district. He has his identity card ready in case police stop him on the way.

Asked when he expects to reach home, he said, “I don’t know, but I have no other choice. I cannot die here alone. I am jobless and don’t have savings to sustain.

Better I go home and do farming. If I am lucky, I will survive.”

Mahesh, another daily wager working with the Public Works Department (PWD), is determined to go back with his family and relatives to their native village in Jhansi district and has began their 440-km-long journey on foot.

CBI joins COVID-19 fight; ISRO to design ventilators, make hand sanitisers officials to donate one-day salary

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (IANS): In fight against novel coronavir us or COVID-19 pandemic, country’s premiere investigating agency CBI has decided to extend monetary support to the government in the need of the hour with its officials pledging to donate their one-day salary in PM-CARES fund.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) made the declaration on Sunday announcing that its officials have decided to donate their one day salary to Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM-CARES Fund).

The CBI, which is mandated to investigate high end corruption cases in the country, is the first among other central investigating agencies to declare

the support.

“CBI officials have decided to donate their one day salary to Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM CARES Fund) to help the Centre in its efforts to fight coronavirus in the country,” CBI Spokesperson Nitin Wakankar said in an official statement.

People from different walks of life, including businessman and Bollywood

actors, paramilitary force and politicians have been donating in the PM fund created to help the central government to meet the crisis created by the pandemic which has so far claimed 19 lives and over 900 confirmed cases.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced PMCARES Fund. He urged people from all walks of life’ to express their desire to donate to India’s war against COVID-19 -- a disease originated from China’s Wuhan city has caused over 22,000 deaths and over 5 lakh confirmed cases across the globe. Respecting that spirit, the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund was constituted, which is expected to go a long way in creating a healthier India.

C H E N NA I , M A R 2 9 (IANS): Designing simple to operate ventilators, manufacturing of sanitisers, oxygen canisters and masks while putting on hold manufacture of rockets is what Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), part of ISRO, is doing to meet the emergency needs of the people and owing to lockdown, said top official.

He also said all the staff at the VSSC are safe and not affected by Coronavirus.

Based in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, the VSSC part of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) makes the rockets that launches the Indian and foreign satellites.

“We are designing ventilators that are different from what is already there.

We are designing ventilators that can be operated in a simple manner and when power supply is not there,” S. Somanath, Director told

IANS. He said, as regards ventilators, the VSSC’s job is only to design and the manufacturing will be done by industries.

“We are making sanitisers for captive and also for use of others. We have made over 1,000 litres. Similarly, masks are made by employee societies,” he added.

Meanwhile, the employees have been asked to work from home and VSSC’s communication and computer systems are working well in a secure condition.

“Our communication and computer networks are safe and secure and those who can work from home are working from home while critical operations are taken care of by deploying necessary staff. Whenever needed, video conferencing is also held,” Somanath added.

According to him,

manufacturing of rockets has been put on hold for now at the VSSC. Queried about the status of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F10) loaded with India’s first Geo Imaging Satellite-1 (GISAT-1), he said the rocket has been brought back to from the launch pad to the assembling building.

On March 4, a day before the scheduled launch G I S AT- 1 o n b o a r d t h e

GSLV-F10 and hours before the start of the launch countdown, Indian space agency announced postponement of the mission owing to some technical glitch.

“The launch of GISAT-1 onboard GSLVF10 (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle-F10), planned for March 5, 2020, is postponed due to technical reasons. Revised launch date will be informed in due course,” ISRO had said on March 4.

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NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): India has shifted its diplomats and staff from its consulates in Afghan cities of Herat and Jalalabad to Kabul in view of fastspreading cases of coronavirus in that country which shares a long border with Iran, the worst hit nation by the pandemic in the region.

Government sources said all Indian staff at the two consulates were brought to Kabul as part of precautionary measures, following the swelling number of coronavirus cases in the war-ravaged country.

According to Afghan government, a total of 110 people have been infected by the virus, although health experts believe the

MUMBAI, MAR 29 (PTI): Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday assured that his government will take care of all migrant labourers and provide them basic necessities like food and water.

The ‘Shiv Bhojan’ scheme offering meal at Rs 10 will now be available at Rs 5 from April 1, he said in a webcast. Thackeray said the state has already set up 163 centres across the state to provide food and water to the migrant labourers.

“The state will protect them and provide food, but they should not leave their place. I understand that they are anxious but they should not leave. They should avoid increasing the risk of infection, he said.

In view of the nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus, several migrant labourers are left with no work and hence, they are leaving the state to return to their native places. A number of them have been marching on foot, while some tried to make their way out of the state in goods trucks and tempos, but were caught during police checking.

Thackeray said as the government has asked people to maintain social distancing, they should not venture out on streets without a strong reason.

“People should not force the police to take strict-

8

business/state

India to be fastest growing G20 economy

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (IANS): India will emerge as the fastest growing economy among the G20 countries even as Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has slashed Indias GDP growth forecast to 2.1 per cent from 6 per cent in the light of the coronavirus pandemic.

India’s growth at just 2.1 per cent may be a huge downgrade but given the projected recession in other regions like the US, Europe and Latin America, India will show the highest rate of GDP growth and will be only among three countries in G20 along with China and Indonesia, both at 1 per cent growth, to avoid a recession this year. Italy will be the worst hit at a negative growth of 7 per cent.

The EIU said in a report that Covid-19 is likely to send almost all G20 countries into a recession.

“Following the coronavirus outbreak, we have revised our growth fore-

casts for all countries across the world. The results paint a bleak picture. Across the G20, all but three countries will register a recession this year. The global economy will contract by 2.2 per cent,” it said.

The EIU has called the picture “bleak” and any recovery may be hit by future waves of the Covid19 pandemic.

“The global economic picture is looking bleak, with recessions in almost

F&CS deptt clarifies

(From p-1) In an emergency situation like this when the government was facilitating lifting of food grains in advance so that enough quantities could be made available to the beneficiaries, the department suggested that village functionaries should find ways and means to stock the commodities meant for the beneficiaries under their care, adding

should there be any problem, they could always approach the appropriate authority for assistance.

Mentioning that its staffs were working without leave under stress for the interest of public and at the risk of being exposed to the deadly virus, the department urged everyone to cooperate during this crucial time.

Paytm to contribute for PM CARES Fund

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (IANS): To support the fight against COVID-19 pandemic, India’s leading digital payments and financial services platform Paytm on Sunday said it is aiming to contribute Rs 500 crore to the PM CARES Fund. Urging users to do their bit in the fight against Covid-19, the company said that for every contribution or any other payment made on Paytm using the wallet, UPI and Paytm Bank debit card, the company will contribute an extra up to Rs 10. “We are honoured to do our duty to aid the government in all the relief measures being taken to fight the Corona pandemic.

We hope our users wholeheartedly donate to PM CARES fund and help save lives,” Madhur Deora, President - Paytm, said in a statement. “We will also contribute up to Rs 10 for every payment transaction using the Paytm app and instruments. This money

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would be directly sent to the PM-CARES fund. Paytm commits to doing everything in its power to support the efforts of our government in coming out of this crisis,” Deora said. Over the last few weeks, Paytm has launched several initiatives to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus. It has started collecting contributions to buy personal hygiene products for people who might not have the means to buy it.

Also, the company has created a Rs 5 crore fund for innovators who are developing medical instruments or medicines to combat the virus. The PM CARES Fund is exempt under the Income Tax Act, 1961 under Section 10 and 139 for return purposes. Contributions towards PM-CARES are notified for 100 per cent deduction from taxable income under section 80(G) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.

every developed economy across the world. We assume that there will be a recovery in the second half of the year, but downside risks to this baseline scenario are extremely high, as the emergence of second, or third waves of the epidemic would sink growth further,” the EIU said.

It has also warned of an impending debt crisis and no clear exit strategy from the lockdowns.

“At this stage, it is also hard to see an exit strategy from the lockdowns, which means that uncertainty will remain high. Finally, the combination of lower fiscal revenues and higher public spending will put many countries on the brink of a debt crisis,” Agathe Demarais, EIU’S Global Forecasting Director, said.

The EIU has forecast that the US economy will contract by 2.8 per cent this year. The administration’s initial response to the

coronavirus was poor, allowing the illness to spread quickly.

“This puts Donald Trump’s re-election bid at risk, as unemployment looks set to rise sharply,” the EIU said.

The impact on China’s economy of the Covid-19 outbreak is set to be much deeper than that of SARS. Assuming that the virus does not flare up again, the EIU expects China’s real GDP growth to stand at only 1 per cent in 2020, compared to an estimated 6.1 per cent in 2019.

The eurozone will be one of the hardest hit regions, posting a full-year recession of 5.9 per cent.

Germany (-6.8 per cent), France (-5 per cent) and Italy (-7 per cent) will register full-year recessions.

Growth prospects are particularly poor across Latin America. Argentina (-6.7 per cent), Brazil (-5.5 per cent) and Mexico (-5.4 per cent) will all register recessions this year.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

No fuel crisis in India; enough stock of petrol, diesel, LPG available to last lockdown: IOC NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (PTI): India, the world’s third largest energy consumer, has enough petrol, diesel and cooking gas (LPG) in stocks to last way beyond the three-week nationwide lockdown as all plants and supply locations are fully operational, Indian Oil Corp (IOC) Chairman Sanjiv Singh said.

Singh, who continued to oversee the mammoth operations of ensuring that fuel reaches every nook and corner despite bereavement of his father on the day 21day lockdown was declared, said there is no shortage of any fuel in the country and customers should not resort to panic booking of LPG refills.

“We have mapped demand for all fuel for entire April and beyond. We have refineries operating at levels enough to meet all of the demand. Besides all bulk storage points, LPG distributorships and petrol pumps are functioning normally. There

Sanjiv Singh is absolutely no shortage of any fuel,” he told PTI. The nationwide lockdown that has shut businesses, suspended flights, stopped trains and brought almost entire vehicular movement to a halt, has impacted fuel demand with petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) showing negative growth (degrowth or fall in demand).

With most cars and two-wheelers going off the road, petrol demand has fallen by 8 per cent in March while diesel demand has been down 16 per cent. ATF

demand has fallen by 20 per cent, he said.

“LPG consumption however continues to grow and we are servicing all customers,” he said adding refill demand saw more than 200 per cent jump as the lockdown was announced.

The refills sought were a result of panic booking as in the absence of the exhausting existing ones, many could not take deliveries of new cylinders, he said adding even customers with double cylinder connections had ordered for refills without exhausting even one cylinder.

“There is absolutely no need for panic booking.

We have enough stocks to meet all demand,” he said.

“When a customer resorts to panic booking, it puts unnecessary strain on the system as the requirement is immediately transmitted to bottling locations which make additional refills, transport it to bulk location and onward to the distributor.

30% retailers may shut shop in 6 months if no govt support: RAI NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (IANS): About 30 per cent of Indian retailers may be out of business in six months time if the government does not provide them support amidst the nation-wide lockdown, Retailers Association of India (RAI) CEO Kumar Rajagopalan said.

Speaking to IANS on Sunday, Rajagoplan also noted that the business has been severely subdued since February, with 50-60 per cent of normal trade last month and nearly no trade in March.

“Outlook looks quite grim, I think if it continues, for example till April 15-20, I think most of the retailers would already be in very deep trouble,” he said.

Rajagopalan said that retailers are accustomed to be paid every day and that is how they pay their expenses. Rent costs about 8 per cent of their earnigs and salaries cost about 7-8

per cent of their earnings.

They also have to pay he suppliers and payments are still pending but there is no income, he said.

“As many as 85 per cent of their expenses are fixed expenses. Unless the government intervenes, I thing the 30 per cent of retailers are going to be out of the market in the next 6 months time,” the RAI CEO said.

Saying that the industry body has written to the government seeking an stimulus package, Rajagopalan told IANS that for retail businesses to sustain, the government needs to take up steps such as subsidising rents and paying wages for the employees.

The retail industry in the country employs around 60 lakh people and according to Rajagopalan, most of them right now are in jeopardy.

“Many of them will get paid this month and

No. 9538 Yesterday’s solution No. 9537

No. 4157 Yesterday’s solution No. 4156

No. 3183 Yesterday’s solution No. 3182

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possibly even next month but that’s at the cost of the retailer. They don’t have that deep a pocket, that they can withstand, 2-3 months of salary,” he said.

“We have reached out to the government and asked for some kind of subsidy, for rentals, for payment of salary and also some moratorium on loan repayment.”

He said that although the moratorium has been impose on repayment of loan payments, there is no clarity in terms of bills of exchange.

“But in terms of bill of exchanges, that the retailers have taken against suppliers, those are not clear whether we have to pay now or not. If that payment is to be done, we don’t have the money to pay, so most of them would be default,” he said.

About availability of essential goods including

Kumar Rajagopalan food items during the ongoing lockdown, he said the association, in collaboration with local retailers and the authorities is trying to ensure availability of essential products.

He said that issues of price hike and nonavailability of products are likely to get sorted in the

next three to four days.

The nation-wide lockdown announced by the Prime Minister last Tuesday is scheduled to end on April 14. However, anticipations have been made that the lockdown may be extended, which may come at a greater economic cost.

17 samples out of 22 test negative, reports of 5...

(From p-1) “I once again request those who have entered the State after March 6 to selfregister in the app with full details,” he appealed.

Asserting that availability of essential commodities and goods across the State continued to be normal, Sinha said reports were received everyday from the districts on the position

of stocks in terms of number of days, adding the situation continued to remain comfortable. He claimed that availability of PDS food grains in the State too was sufficient, while current stock in FCI godowns in the State would be enough for another three-and-anda-half months. Sharing the State Level Control Room COVID-19 contact numbers

0370-2291122 and 03702291120, he said anyone having any grievance following the lockdown could contact. The control room could also be contacted by any person from Nagaland who was currently outside the State and stranded or facing hardships because of the lockdown and require guidance and support, he explained.

DNSU denounces F&CS directive (From p-1) While the COVID-19 cases were rising in the country, including in neighbouring States, lack of such a facility had spread fear among the citizens, it added, even as it appealed to the government to install a testing lab at the earliest without any delay.

DNSU extended its gratitude and appreciation to the services being provided by doctors, nurses, police personnel and other government agencies in fighting to prevent

the spread of the COVID-19.

While appreciating the good deeds of various NGOs for their invaluable contributions in cash and in kinds to the needy, the union also appealed to other local bodies, churches, charity organisations, community organisations, etc, to come forward and render similar charity service to the poor people, at least in one’s own locality, especially to the homeless who were most vulnerable to COVID-19.

NRAI urges landlords to waive rents for restaurants till June

NEW DELHI, MAR 29 (IANS): Hit by the coronavirus crisis and the nation-wide lockdown, the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) has urged landlords in the food and beverage (F&B) or restaurant industry to waive their rents and the common area maintenance charges till June or till the lockdown lasts.

In an open letter to the landlords in the food and beverage (F&B) business, the industry body representing over 5 lakh restaurants said that although the shutdown may remain for a month two, the industry will take many more months to revive.

“While this shutdown may continue for a month or two, we will take many more months post that to get back on our feeta and we will not be able to sail through this period smoothly without your support,” said the letter NRAI also sought that the common area maintenance charge should be taken at 50 per cent of the agreed rate for the six months after the lockdown ends.

It also said that there should not be “minimum guaranteed rents for six months post that and instead work on a pure revenue share equivalent to 50 per cent of the agreed terms

up to a maximum of 10 per cent of monthly revenues.”

NRAI President Anurag Katriar said: “This appeal is aimed at ensuring our mere survival during such extraordinarily troubled times. We aren’t trying to be profiteer at the expense of the landlords. As longstanding business partners of ours, we are hopeful that the landlords will extend their support in these times of unprecedented crisis.”

The industry body, last week wrote to the Finance Minister seeking economic relief for the restaurant industry in view of the disruption caused by the coronavirus scare in the country.

9

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

COVID-19: Italy death toll rises before deadline US reports over 2,000 COVID-19 deaths Rome, Mar 29 (IANS): The COVID-19 pandemic continued to claim victims in Italy as the deadline for the end of the government’s national lockdown drew closer and experts warned it is too soon to lift restrictions.

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced that the entire country of some 60 million people would remain under lockdown until April 3 in a bid to contain the spread of the coronavirus, Xinhua news agency reported.

As of Saturday the total number of infections, fatalities and recoveries rose to 92,472, according to the latest data released by the Civil Protection Department.

The death toll was 889 on Saturday, pushing the total to 10,023 fatalities since the pandemic first broke out in northern Italy on Feb. 21. Speaking during a nightly televised press conference, Civil Protection Department Chief Angelo Borrelli also confirmed that there are 3,651 new coronavirus infections compared to Friday, bringing the nationwide total to 70,065 cases.

Of those infected, 26,676 are hospitalized and 3,856 are in intensive care.

He added that there were 1,434 recoveries, bringing the total to 12,384.

Workers wearing protective outfits sanitize a neighborhood to contain the spread of Covid-19 virus, in Rome, Saturday. (AP/PTI)

On Saturday, leading Italian virologist Roberto Burioni wrote on Facebook that “at this time the situation remains so serious that any idea of relaxing the restrictions any time soon is unrealistic� We must stay home, or the sacrifices we have made so far will have been in vain.”

He was echoed by Fabrizio Pregliasco, a research fellow at Milan University’s Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, who told ANSA Italian news agency in an interview that “realistically, we will have to wait at least until the end of April” to lift the restrictions.

“There won’t be one

single peak in the cases but... various peaks occurring throughout the national territory, at different times,” Pregliasco added.

“Therefore, the most effective weapons (against the virus) for now are isolation (of infected people) and restrictive measures.”

As well, Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese told Sky Tg24 private broadcaster in an interview that “if we look at yesterday’s data, I think April 3 is too soon” to relax the lockdown.

Economic Development Minister Stefano Patuanelli told RAI News 24 the same thing: “There are some elements that lead

us to say that the April 3 deadline will probably have to be extended.”

“We are watching the situation as it unfolds, so decisions will be made when the situation with regard to the numbers of deaths and infections calms down,” she said.

Meanwhile, Italy continued to purchase supplies for hospitals and emergency personnel who are on the frontlines of the fight against the virus.

The Public Informational Services Dealer (CONSIP), a procurement company that is wholly owned by the Ministry of Finance, said on Saturday that it has obtained the de-

livery from various parts of the world of almost 100,000 endotracheal tubes, over 870,000 surgical masks, 12 million items of protective gear for medical and civil protection staff (including gloves, visors, and suits), and almost 170,000 swabs to test for the virus.

CONSIP added that 370 intensive and sub-intensive care ventilators arrived from Hong Kong earlier in the day.

The effort is being undertaken in cooperation with the Foreign Ministry, the Finance Guard, and the Customs Agency, CONSIP said.

“These are significant results, given the known issues with logistics, the closure of flights and borders, and domestic transportation difficulties,” it said.

Also on Saturday, the National Confederation of Farmers (Coldiretti) warned that the prices of basic foods such as grain and rice are on the rise as “governments are concentrating on feeding their own populations while the virus interrupts supply chains worldwide amid fears of a global food crisis”. The “tendency to stockpile has been confirmed in Italy as well,” with marked rises in consumer purchases of flour (99.5 per cent), rice (47.3 per cent), and semolina pasta (41.9 per cent) “during the five weeks ending on March 22,” Coldiretti wrote.

An elderly patient is wheeled into the emergency entrance to Elmhurst Hospital Center in New York, Saturday. (AP/PTI)

Washington, Mar 29 (IANS): The United States has reported more than 2,000 COVID-19 deaths, according to the latest tally from Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE).

As of 6.40 p.m. on Saturday (2240 GMT), there were more than 121,000 confirmed cases in the United States, with 2,010 deaths, an interactive map maintained by the CSSE showed, Xinhua news agency reported.

New York state’s cases have topped 52,000, followed by states of New Jersey and California, with 11,124 and 5,065 cases respectively, according to the update.

As COVID-19 cases continued increasing, U.S. President Donald Trump floated an idea on Saturday of putting in place an “enforceable quarantine” on travel for some of the hardest-hit areas.

“Some people would like to see New York quarantined because it’s a hot spot - New York, New Jersey, maybe one or two other places, certain parts of Connecticut quarantined. I’m thinking about that right now,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “We might not have to do it but, there’s a possibility that sometime today we’ll do a quarantine - short term,” he added.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, in

an interview with CNN on Saturday, said that he did not believe a possible New York quarantine was legal and that it would be a “federal declaration of war.” “It would be chaos and mayhem,” said Cuomo, who has ordered New York residents to stay at home as much as possible. “It’s totally opposite everything he’s been saying. I don’t think it is plausible. I don’t think it is legal.”

Globally, the number of COVID-19 cases has exceeded 650,000, with more than 30,000 deaths, while nearly 140,000 people have recovered from the disease, according to the latest tally on Saturday.

Chinese supply defective kits for COVID tests Silent carriers can spread Covid-19: data from Wuhan

New Delhi, Mar29 (AGENCIES): A Chinese company offered Friday to replace thousands of faulty coronavirus test kits after Spanish health authorities – desperate for materials to cope with the world’s second highest COVID-19 death toll – complained they did not work as promised.

China has sold face masks and other medical equipment through a series of personal contacts with Spanish authorities, including discussions between chief executives of Chinese tech giant Alibaba and Spain’s King Felipe.

But the first shipment of 640,000 test kits was found to have “insufficient sensibility” to reliably identify infected patients, according to Health Minister Salvador Illa, who announced Thursday that 58,000 kits had been returned.

The Netherlands government has ordered its hospitals to send back around 600,000 masks that had been imported from China, nearly half of the 1.3-million purchased consignment, after they failed to meet quality standards, the Dutch media has reported.

The faulty masks had already

been sent to several hospitals in the Netherlands managing the Covid19 pandemic but have now been recalled. The rest of the masks have now been put on hold, said an NOS report Saturday.

Netherlands had received the mask order from a Chinese manufacturer on 21 March. The masks were of the FFP2 grade, used as a respirator mask to filter out around 94 per cent of solid and liquid particulate matter in the air.

However, the masks were found to have faulty filter membranes during inspection that would have been ineffective in filtering out particulate matter containing the novel coronavirus from entering through mouth or nose.

Netherlands has seen over 1,800 coronavirus cases and a death toll of more than 600.

It has now joined a host of countries that have said medical supplies from China have proven faulty, hence ineffective in battling the pandemic largely understood to have originated in China. According to a Fox News report, Spain is set to return 9,000 “quick result” test kits back to China due to substandard

Spanish Princess becomes 1st royal to die of COVID-19

Princess Maria Teresa of Spain

L o n d o n, M a r 2 9 (IANS): Princess Maria Teresa of Spain has died after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, becoming the first royal victim of the disease, it was reported.

The Princess, who was King of Spain Felipe VI’s cousin, died aged 86 in Paris on Friday, the London-based Metro newspaper said in a report on Saturday. Her younger brother Prince Sixtus Henry of Bourbon-Parma announced her demise, as the death toll in Spain in-

creased to 5,982, now the second highest in the world after Italy (10,023).

Princess Maria Teresa, of the Bourbon-Parma Royal Family, was born in Paris, France on July 28, 1933 to Prince Xavier and Madeleine de Bourbon.

Her death comes the UK’s Prince Charles also tested positive for coronavirus.

The Prince of Wales has “mild symptoms” of COVID-19, but otherwise remains in good health, a spokesperson said last week.

quality. The severely-affected country had purchased $467 million worth of medical supplies from China.

Even 80 per cent of the testing kits sent to Czech Republic proved to be faulty, said the report.

India among countries to receive Chinese medical supplies There are several other countries around the world including India that have received, or are set to get, Chinese medical supplies as the coronavirus pandemic worsens all over.

On Saturday, the first batch of medical supplies from the Chinese Alibaba Foundation reached India, and was received by the Indian Red Cross Society.

The move came after Chinese billionaire entrepreneur and Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma joined microblogging site Twitter earlier this month to announce free medical supplies from China to several countries fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Ma’s first ever tweet was about sending masks and test kits to the US. In another tweet, he said 54 African countries will receive free “20,000 test kits, 100,000 masks and 1,000 medical use protective suits and face shields”.

Hong Kong, Mar 29 (IANS): Latest classified data released by Chinese government suggests that “silent carriers” of Covid19 virus could be playing a dangerous role in electrifying the spread of the pandemic across the globe.

The data reveals that around 43,000 people in China have tested positive despite showing no symptoms. Such patients who looked healthy were the silent carriers and would have played a vital role in the spread of the virus.

However, asymptomatic carriers of the dreaded virus have been ignored by most of the western countries.

The latest data from China suggests that such silent carriers in large numbers could further complicate the strategies used by different countries to counter community transmission of the disease.

In a report, the South China Morning Post said that around 43,000 people in China had tested positive for coronavirus by the end of February but had no symptoms.

These asymptomatic, silent carriers were placed under quarantine and were closely monitored by the doctors. However, they were not included in the list of officially confirmed cases which then stood at 80,000.

Scientists are not yet sure what role exactly a silent carrier or asymptomatic transmission plays in the spread of this new type of coronavirus. A patient usually develops symptoms in five days though the incubation period can stretch up to 14 days or even three weeks. During this period, the asymptomatic patient can pass on the infection to others.

A section of scientists are of the view that silent

Spain extends measures to contain COVID-19 spread M a d ri d, M a r 2 9 (IANS): All non-essential workers in Spain must stay home for the next two weeks, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, as the government extended measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus throughout the country.

At a cabinet meeting on Sunday, the government will approve the “exceptional” measures ahead of the Easter celebrations, known in Spain as Holy Week, that start on April 5. The new restrictions will be in place until at least April 9, reports Efe news.

“We are doing this now because we’re about to enter the Easter holidays, so we can more aggressively cut down on social contacts and, therefore, hospital admissions and the pressure on Intensive Care Units,” Sanchez told a press conference on Saturday.

The new restrictions were announced after authorities confirmed the deaths of 832 coronavirus patients in the last 24 hours, a record daily death toll in the country.

Already the second deadliest global hotspot after Italy, Spain’s health ministry said the total number of

carriers play a vital role in infecting others with the Covid-19 virus.

“The Chinese government changed its classification guidelines on February 7, counting only those patients with symptoms as confirmed cases.

The US, Britain and Italy simply do not test people without symptoms, apart from medical workers who have prolonged exposure to the virus,” said the English daily owned by the Alibaba group.

China may not have been adding silent carriers on its official list, but it prevented the spread of the disease by isolating and monitoring them.

The approach helped the government in swiftly containing the virus from spreading to other regions in the China.

Similarly, Hong Kong also tested travellers at the airport, even if they had no symptoms. On the oth-

er hand, many European countries and the US followed a different approach and did not test those who were asymptomatic or rather were silent carriers of the virus.

Such approach reportedly led to an increase in the number of infections in Europe and the US. As the world now is witness to a dangerous spread of the virus, some scientists are asking whether asymptomatic and presymptomatic transmissions have been underestimated.

An in-depth research by experts in China, the US, Britain and Hong Kong estimated that undocumented cases of the disease, mostly with mild or even no symptoms, were the source of infection for 79 per cent of documented ones before Wuhan was locked down on January 23, the English daily said.

OFFICE OF THE

KHONOMA RÜFFÜNO NAGALAND Hq. D. Block, Kohima- 797001, Nagaland

CONDEMNATION MESSAGE

Khonoma Rüffüno Nagaland (KRN) expresses and extends its deepest sorrow and sympathy to the bereaved family of Late Er. Kevinguto Khate, S/o Late Rokozhasie Khate and Hokhuli Khate.

The Rüffüno condemns the heinous crime and brutal murder on the life of Er. Kevinguto Khate a promising dynamic young man on 16/03/2020. The KRN earnestly urges the concerned authority to expedite the investigation and give a befitting punishment to the culprits without fear or favour inorder to dispense justice to the departed soul and his loved ones.

(Nisavi Hieme) President Khonoma Rüffüno, Nagaland.

K-860

Spaniards are only allowed to leave their house to buy food and pharmaceuticals, tend to dependent relatives or go to doctors appointments.

deaths now stood at 5,960.

Some 769 Covid-19 patients died between Thursday and Friday. However, the number of new infections continued to stabilize, according to Fernando Simon, the head of Spain’s public health emergency department.

“Several indicators suggest the disease is stabilizing.

But this is preliminary information. Some areas of the country may have already reached the peak, but at a national level we cannot confirm anything.”

Simon said however, that the main concern at the moment was the situation in the country’s intensive

care units (ICU), some of which are already near full capacity.

ICU cases, he added, will therefore not reach a peak until the end of next week “at the earliest”.

There were 4,575 people in ICUs across the country at the moment.

Another concern for the Spanish government is the number of health workers who have contracted COVID-19, which is 32 per cent more than in Italy, the deadliest hotspot.

Officials attributed it, in part, to the level of exposure professionals had to patients in Spain.

As of Friday, more than 9,000 health workers were known to have contracted the disease.

Simon said most of those had light symptoms.

There were 8,189 additional coronavirus cases reported on Saturday, a 12.8 per cent jump that brought the overall tally since the outbreak began to 72,248, lower than the 14 per cent increase observed the previous day. Some 54,000 of those cases are still active.

Almost 3,000 people recovered in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 12,285, a recovery rate of 17 per cent.

KHONOMA GAZETTED OFFICERS’ UNION CONDEMNATION We the Khonoma Gazetted Officers Union strongly condemns the senseless gruesome murder of Late Er. Kevinguto Khate, S/o Late Mr. Rokozhasie Khate on 16th March 2020 at Dimapur. We are shocked, appalled and distressed by the atrocious murder of a very well accomplished life, someone who has a very promising future and much to give back to the society. We request the concerned authority to give the most severe penalty to the perpetrators of this crime, to set an example to deter more such criminal activities and criminals in the society. We also extend our anguish, pain and sorrow to the family of late Kevinguto Khate and pray that God Almighty will provide solace in their most difficult time.

Dated: 29/03/2020 DP-2207

President Khonoma Gazetted Officers Union

10

Infotainment

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

Kumar to donate Blair Underwood refused ‘Sex And Tom Hanks shares new RsBhushan 11cr to PM CARES Fund The City’ due to black stereotype message after returning home T A T om Hanks has updated fans on he and his wife’s condition after testing positive for the coronavirus earlier this month.

The actor and his wife Rita Wilson were in Australia for pre-production of the as-yet-untitled Elvis Presley biopic from Warner Bros when they discovered they had tested positive for COVID-19.

Hanks, who is set to play Presley’s longtime manager Colonel Tom Parker in the Baz Luhrmann-directed biopic, told fans at the time: “We felt a bit tired, like we had colds, and some body aches.”

He continued: “Rita had some chills that came and went. Slight fevers too.

To play things right, as is needed in the world right now, we were tested for the coronavirus, and were found to be positive.”

After updating fans on their status last week, saying that they “felt better,” the couple have now

recovered and are back home in L.A. Ta k i n g t o Tw i t ter, Hanks wrote: “Hey, Folks… We’re home now and, like the rest of America, we carry on with sheltering in place and social distancing.

“Many, many thanks to everyone in Australia who looked after us. Their care and guidance made possible our return to the USA. And many thanks to all of you who reached out with well wishes. Ruth and I so appreciate it. Hanx.”

Hanks and Wilson are among a number of celebrities who have contracted the coronavirus. Others

Want to do more action movies, says Priyanka Chpopra

A

c t r e s s P r i ya n k a Chopra has done some daring stunts in movies. She says she wants to do more as she enjoys action films.

“I have always done my own stunts. I trust my body immensely. I am athletic as a person. I just really enjoy action movies. I have done them in ‘Don’ and ‘Quantico’. I hope to do more of them,” Priyanka told IANS. The genre is generally seen as a hero’s domain.

“I am someone who believes in a gender neutral world. I hope in my lifetime we reach a place where we say movies instead of female-centric movies, we say directors instead of female directors, we say athletes instead of female athletes,” said the former Miss World.

“I hope my children don’t have to worry about the fact that ‘this is an Indian female cricket team or

Indian female movie’. We don’t say ‘it is a male-centric movie, so let’s go and watch it’. So why do we have to say that it’s a female (centric movie)? I hope that happens and I am seeing it more and more as the conversation... where girls are coming out of their shells, and parents are supporting in finding their own feet. My parents supported me in all my dreams and ambitions,” said Priyanka.

She has many projects in her kitty, including a superhero movie titled “We Can Be Heroes”. Will the audience get to see her as a superhero?

“I can’t tell you that but it’s a kids superhero movie by Robert Rodriguez. You know ‘Spy Kids’?

This (‘We Can Be Heroes’) is in that world a little bit, and a lot of amazing actors have come together to tell the story. It will be really fun,” she said.

(IANS)

who have tested positive include Idris Elba and his wife, rappers Scarface and Slim Thug, Bon Jovi keyboardist David Bryan, Frozen 2 star Rachel Matthews and Spanish opera singer Plácido Domingo.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also confirmed that he has tested positive for coronavirus.

In a video statement to the nation, the Prime Minister said he has “mild symptoms” and will continue to lead the country’s response to the crisis while in self-isolation.

He said: “I want to bring you up to speed on something that is happening today which is that I have developed mild symptoms of coronavirus, that is to say a temperature and a persistent cough, and on the advice of the chief medical officer I have taken a test.

“That has come out positive so I am working from home, I am self isolating.”

(NME)

-series honcho Bhushan Kumar has pledged to donate Rs 11 crore to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative PM CARES Fund and Rs 1 crore to the Chief Ministers Relief Fund, Maharashtra to lend support to the ongoing battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

Kumar took to Twitter on Sunday and tweeted: “Today, we are all at a really crucial stage & it’s extremely important to do all we can to help. I, along with my entire @TSeries family pledge to donate Rs. 11 crores to the PM-CARES Fund. We can & will fight this together, Jai Hind @PMOIndia @ narendramodi #IndiaFightsCorona.”

He added: “In this hour of need, I pledge to donate Rs. 1 crore to the CM’s relief fund along with my family at @Tseries. Hope we all get through this difficult time soon. Stay home, stay safe.@CMOMaharashtra @ OfficeofUT @AUThackeray #IndiaFightsCorona.”

Earlier, the government set up the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations

Polish composer Penderecki dies at 86 after long illness

James McAvoy donates £275,000 Rajkummar Rao donates to help buy PPE equipment for NHS staff to COVID-19 relief funds

P

oland’s Krzysztof Penderecki, one of the world’s most celebrated composers, died on Sunday at the age of 86, his family said.

Penderecki was known for his film scores, including for William Friedkin’s “The Exorcist”, Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” and David Lynch’s “Wild at Heart”, for his Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima and the largely atonal St Luke’s Passion.

“After a long and serious illness, Krzysztof Penderecki — one of the greatest Polish musicians, a world authority in the field of classical music died,” Poland’s Ministry of Culture said in a tweet. Penderecki had been tested for coronavirus after his carer was diagnosed with the illness, but the composer’s result was negative, his daughter Beata Penderecka told Reuters.

Part of the family had been under quarantine at home after attending a family meeting on March 7, Penderecka said. Several people present later tested positive for coronavirus.

(Reuters)

Fund, or the PM CARES Fund, with the objective of dealing with emergency situations such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Contributors to the fund will enjoy tax benefits, it has been announced.

“People from all walks of life expressed their desire to donate to India’s war against COVID-19.

Respecting that spirit, the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund has been constituted. This will go a long way in creating a healthier India,” PM Modi announced in a tweet on Saturday.

The Prime Minister is the chairman of the trust that includes the home minister, the finance minister the defence minister.

(IANS)

X

-Men star James McAvoy has donated £275,000 to help buy PPE for NHS staff.

McAvoy donated the money to a crowdfunding campaign, #Masks4NHSHeroes set up by a group of doctors to help raise money to buy PPE (personal protective equipment) for staff treating coronavirus patients.

The campaign, which has so far raised £440,000, was set up to raise money for items such as masks, gloves and visors because medics felt they were “going to war without armour and protection.”

In a video on Instagram, McAvoy said: “Money donated today will save lives…Help us to help the government to help the NHS.” He added: “The situation is truly urgent and time is of the essence.” You can donate to the campaign here.

Speaking to The Guardian, one of the medics who helped to set up the campaign, Dr Salaj Masand, said: “We are overwhelmed and speechless at the trust and faith people have put into us to deliver this. The number of very generous donations from everyone doubled our target within three days.”

He described McAvoy’s donations as “mindblowing” and said it would

mean 75,000 masks and visors could be ordered immediately instead of waiting whilst donations came through.

He added: “This is a global catastrophic event and an extremely tough time for gover nments across world, no different from ours. There is a worldwide shortage of PPE [that’s] likely to go on for months.

“The government is doing all it can but the NHS needs all the help it can get. We are also competing with the commercial market who are trying to sell the same PPE for extraordinary prices.”

Stars from music, television and film continue to donate funds to assist with the ongoing virus crisis. Earlier this week, it was announced that George Harrison’s Material World Foundation donated $500,000 to a series of charities providing much needed aid and care during this coronavirus

COVID-19: Disneyland to remain Salman donates to industry workers before PM fund closed for indefinite period

D

isneyland will remain closed indefinitely amid the coronavirus pandemic, park officials have confirmed.

Earlier this montH, it was announced Disneyland in Anaheim, and its neighbouring California Adventure, were too close until the end of the month, with Disney World in Orlando, Florida implementing similar measures, reports aceshowbiz.com.

“While there is still much uncertainty with respect to the impacts of COVID-19, the safety and well-being of our guests and employees remains The Walt Disney Company’s top priority,” Disney Parks officials said in a statement, according to hollywoodreporter.com.

“As a result of this unprecedented pandemic and in line with direction provided by health experts and government officials, Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed until further notice.” The statement also stated that hourly employees will be paid through to April 18. It comes as Universal Studios announced earlier this week that its theme parks will also remain closed until April 19.

(IANS) K Y M C

B

ollywood superstar Salman Khan has decided to extend help to 25,000-odd daily wage workers of the film industry whose lives have been affected by the ongoing national lockdown that has brought all filming activity in Bollywood to a grinding halt. Salman’s contribution will aid the artistes of Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), said the body’s president BN Tiwari.

“After we approached Salman Khan, he asked us to give him a count of the most affected workers from our association and we told him there were 25,000 such artistes. He has decided to contribute for them. We will be sending him the list in the evening,” said Tiwari, according to a report in indianexpress.com.

The website quotes Tiwari as being critical of filmstars who have been

making big donations to the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM-CARES) instead of helping the industry workers who are left with no income during the lockdown, announced by PM Modi to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus. “It’s only going to get worse.

People are preparing only for 21-day lockdown but we have five lakh workers.

If this extends for a month or two, we will need help from everyone. There are a thousand people ready to fund in the PM-CARES fund but the industry, which you belong to, you should donate there first. You are giving Rs 25 crore to the PM-CARES fund to come in the good books of the PM but there’s not been a single phone call yet to make any donation for the federation workers,” said Tiwari.

(IANS)

ctor Blair Underwood originally passed up the chance to appear on hit TV drama series “Sex and the City” because he refused to be the token black character.

The “Quantico” star played Dr. Robert Leeds, a love interest for Cynthia Nixon’s lawyer Miranda Hobbes, in season six back in 2003, but he says he was initially approached to make a one-off appearance in season three, opposite Kim Cattrell, who portrayed sex-mad PR guru Samantha Jones, reports aceshowbiz.com.

However, Underwood rejected the role of a top record executive whose sister takes issue with interracial relationships, because the storyline of the “No Ifs, Ands or Butts” episode was too stereotypical for his liking.

Discussing his time on “Sex and the City” on Netflix’s “Strong Black Lead” podcast, he said: “I said no first, two years prior, because there was an episode... Kim Cattrell’s

pandemic.

The foundation set up by the Beatles singer-songwriter in 1973 announced on Thursday (March 26) that it donated funds to the MusiCares COVID19 Relief Fund, Save the Children, and Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders).

Tom Hardy also took to social media this week (March 27) to praise the NHS for their work during the coronavirus outbreak.

The Mad Max: Fury Road actor shared a graphic on Instagram this morning (March 27) that read: “ T H A N K YO U E ve r y member of the NHS.” Also displaying the NHS website address, the graphic’s text concluded with: “YOU ARE BRILLIANT.” Last week, Rihanna reportedly offered $5 million to help impoverished countries affected by the coronavirus, with $700,000 worth of ventilators also going to her home country of Barbados.

According to TMZ, Rihanna will make the donation through her Clara Lionel Foundation.

The money will also be used to support local food banks, purchase medical equipment for doctors and nurses on the frontlines, and provide testing in poor nations such as Haiti and Malawi.

(NME)

character wanted to be with a black man and it was all about the curiosity. ‘What’s it like to be with a black man? Are the rumours true?’ And I said, ‘Thank you, but no thank you. I appreciate it and I’m honoured.’ And I mean that, I don’t take that lightly when people offer you a job. But I said, ‘I’m not interested in being the black curiosity, but thank you.’”

Producers later reached out with another proposal for the part of Dr. Leeds, and this time, Underwood’s wife, Desiree DaCosta, urged him to take on the gig, which featured a

B

ollywood actor Rajkummar Rao is doing his bit to fight the coronavirus pandemic. He has contributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s relief fund, Chief Minister’s (Maharashtra) relief fund and Zomato Feeding India to help feed families in need.

Rajkummar doesn’t want to reveal the amount, but tweeted on Sunday: “It’s time to stand together & to help our administration in this fight against Coronavirus. I’ve done my bit..Donated to #PMReliefFund #CMReliefFund and to #ZomatoFeedingIndia to help feed families in need. Please support in whatever way you can.

Our Nation Needs Us. Jai

five-episode story arc.

“Two years later, they came back and had an offer to come join the show,” Underwood shared. “And I said, ‘Is it going to be about his race or is he going to be a human being?’ They said, ‘Naw, he’s a doctor that’s in her building who she meets in the elevator and they hit it off.’ That was important. I only did five episodes and they only mentioned it (interracial relationship) once because it’s obvious,” he added.

“You don’t have to talk about the black guys. It’s obvious what you are.”

(IANS)

Hind.”

Some of his followers even praised him for not revealing the amount.

“This is ideal example of charity. Reason behind this charity is pure care. no show off at all....Showing charity amount for publicity is nt good. Feeling proud of you @RajkummarRao for your charity work,” one Twitter user wrote.

Another wrote: “Well done rajkumar for not showing how amount u donated hatsoff man.”

Many Bollywood celebrities have come forward to support Modi’s PM CAREs fund. Actor Akshay Kumar has announced that he will donate Rs 25 crore to the fund.

(IANS)

Robbie Williams reignites feud with Liam Gallagher following self-isolation

R

Robbie Williams and Liam Gallagher

obbie Williams appears to have reignited his feud with Liam Gallagher following a period of self-isolation.

Speaking to The Sun, Williams originally appeared to praise Gallagher before his comments took another turn when he referred to Gallagher as a “dickhead.”

Williams said: “The thing about Liam is he’s incredible. He’s an incredible singer – proper rock and roller. The world’s a better

place for him being in it.

He’s iconic.

“Sometimes you have to separate the art from the dickhead. And I can do that.”

Last year, Williams called Liam a “bully” and said he wanted to “fight” the former Oasis frontman.

Williams reignited his widely-reported rift with Gallagher by telling him to “buy yourself a pair of bollocks” after the ‘Wall Of Glass’ singer said he had “big fuck off fish to fry.”

In an interview with The Sun, Williams praised Gallagher for his individuality within the music industry before reigniting the beef. “I admire [Gallagher]. He is the voice of a generation, the last of a dying breed, as pop stars are so boring these days,” he said.

“But I still want to fight him. He represents a school bully to me and I would like to take the bully down.”

Williams and Gallagher were friends back in the ’90s but came to loggerheads on a number of occasions, including when Williams challenged Gallagher to a fight at the 2000 Brit Awards.

In 2013, Gallagher labelled Williams a “fat fucking idiot” when the latter was given the opportunity to perform at a bigger venue in Manchester.

(NME) K Y M C

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

maintain hygiene, stay at home: Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri

K UA L A LU M P U R , MARCH 29 (IANS): India’s all-time leading scorer Sunil Chhetri featured in an Asian Football Confederation (AFC) campaign to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and requested people to do all they can to overcome “these challenging times”.

In the latest instalment of the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) #BreakTheChain campaign, which was launched earlier this week to combat the spread of the COVID19 outbreak, India captain Chhetri was joined by Chinese Football Association (CFA) Vice President Sun Wen, acknowledged as one of the greatest women footballers to have graced the world stage, and Myanmar captain Kyaw Zin Thet.

The #BreakTheChain

campaign, which garnered the support of more than 50 Asian players and officials in less than 48 hours since its launch on Thursday, encourages people not only to adopt the best hygiene practises as underlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) but also inspires hope and solidarity in these challenging times, the AFC said in a statement on their website.

Chhetri, who leads the likes of mega superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the international goal scoring charts, joined the chorus of Asian icons showcasing their support, adding: “Everyone is struggling in these challenging times so I must urge you to follow the advice of the World Health Organization and the best medical practices

Ronaldo to donate ventilators in hometown

Lisbon, March 29 (IANS): Madeira-born Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo and his manager Jorge Mendes are going to donate five ventilators to the Regional Health Service of Madeira, Lusa News Agency reported on Saturday.

“The Health Service of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (SESARAM) will receive a donation of equipment to help fight COVID-19, provided by Madeiran footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and businessman Jorge Mendes,” said a press release from the SESARAM, adding “they will finance five ventilators” in the archipelago, the Xinhua news reports.

The latest donation will bring the total number of the ventilators in the re-

gion to 99, the release said.

Last Tuesday, Ronaldo and Mendes made donations to turn a wing of the Santo Antonio Hospital in the Northern city of Porto into Intensive Care Units (ICU) with 15 beds fully equipped with ventilators, monitors and other equipment. The number of COVID-19 cases has risen by 902 to 5,170 in Portugal, with 100 deaths, 24 more than Friday, according to the Directorate-General for Health (DGS) on Saturday.

Health Minister Marta Temido said that lethality rate is “in the largest of 70 years -- 7.9 per cent.”

“According to the data we have now, the maximum incidence of the infection will be postponed until the end of May,” she added.

put in place by your local Governments. It is our responsibilities to do our part by maintaining our hygiene and if necessary, to stay at home.

“Let’s work together” as a team - to break the chain and stop the spread of COVID-19. I stand with everyone in India and around the world to put these challenging times behind us and hope that we can all return to our normal lives soon,” said Chhetri.

Sun, who was named FIFA Female Player of the Century alongside USA.’s Michelle Akers in 2001 and winner of both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot awards at the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, offered a message of unity and hope: “One for all, all for one - this is the best expression of football at this moment.”

“Please follow the advice of medical experts and local medical authorities, wash your hands frequently and maintain a proper social distance. By doing so, you are indirectly supporting our medical frontliners combating the pandemic. You are not just doing it for yourself, but also your family, especially your elders and the whole world. Break the chain, let’s unite to defeat our common enemy.”

11

sports COVID-19: Ajinkya Rahane to donate Rs 10 Lakh

Mumbai, March 29 (IANS): India’s Test vicecaptain Ajinkya Rahane has decided to donate Rs 10 lakh to the Maharastra Chief Minister’s Relief Fund as the country fights the COVID-19 pandemic.

A source close to Rahane confirmed the same to IANS. “He is donating Rs 10 lakh,” the source said.

Rahane joined the list of high-profile cricketers to contribute towards the cause. Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar has donated Rs 50 lakh, while former India player Suresh Raina has chipped in with Rs 52 lakh.

The BCCI had on Saturday decided to contribute Rs 51 crore to the Prime Ministers Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund.

Speaking to IANS, a BCCI official said that it was Secretary Jay Shah who had a word with the other office bearers as well as the state associations to decide on the way forward to help the country in the fight against the pandemic. Former India opener and Lok Sabha MP Gautam Gambhir also said that he has released Rs one crore out of his MP Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) towards the relief efforts amid the pandemic.

Earlier, Gambhir had said in a statement that his foundation was distributing food packets to poor people in his constituency.

Neymar supports campaign to help poor in Brazil R i o de J aneiro, M arch 2 9 ( I A N S ) : Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar has backed a campaign to help underprivileged families in Brazil cope with the coronavirus outbreak.

Led by Brazilian television personality Luciano Huck, the initiative also has the support of dual world surfing champion Gabriel Medina and other Brazilian celebrities.

The campaign calls on Brazilians to donate money - either directly or through charity organizations - to those in need, regardless of the amount. “Solidarity must be more contagious than the virus,” Neymar

The campaign calls on Brazilians to donate money either directly or through charity organizations.

said in a video posted on social media.

Medina added: “Now more than ever we need to give a hand to others.”

The Brazilian gov-

ernment on Thursday announced a monthly subsidiary of 600 reais ($120) for low-income workers and small entrepreneurs as many states impose

lockdowns that effectively halt the informal economy.

Nearly 4,000 cases of infection have been reported in Brazil thus far and 114 deaths. Globally the pandemic has claimed more than 30,000 lives. Neymar last played for PSG in their Champions League round of 16 match against Borussia Dortmund. The match was played behind closed doors at the Parc des Princes in Paris and a few days after, the UEFA announced that all Champions League matches, including the final have been postponed. Football in France has also come to a standstill due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Youngest sportsperson Esha donates Rs 30,000

New Delhi, March 29 (IANS): Teenage shooter Esha Singh on Sunday decided to donate Rs 30,000 to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

At 15, she is the youngest sportsperson to make a monetary contribution in India.

“I pledge to contribute 30 thousand rupees from my savings to the PM CARE FUND to Fight Covid 19... ,” Esha wrote on her twitter handle.

Earlier in the day, India allrounder Richa Ghosh, who represented the country in the Women’s T20 World Cup earlier this month, on Sunday donated Rs 1 lakh to the Bengal Chief Minister’s relief fund in fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Esha Singh

The 16-year old’s father handed over a cheque of Rs 1 lakh to Siliguri District Magistrate Sumanta Sahay.

India’s Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane also decided to donate Rs 10 lakh to the Maharastra Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

Rahane joined the list of highprofile cricketers to contribute towards the cause. Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar has donated Rs

50 lakh, while former India player Suresh Raina has chipped in with Rs 52 lakh.

The BCCI had on Saturday decided to contribute Rs 51 crore to the Prime Ministers Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund.

Speaking to IANS, a BCCI official said that it was Secretary Jay Shah who had a word with the other office-bearers as well as the state associations to decide on the way forward to help the country in the fight against the pandemic.

Former India opener and Lok Sabha MP Gautam Gambhir also said that he has released Rs one crore out of his MP Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) towards the relief efforts amid the pandemic.

Steve Smith’s captaincy ban ends amidst coronavirus outbreak Cape Town. It led to Smith being stripped of captaincy and David Warner being sacked as vice-captain. Bancroft received a nine-month ban from inter national and domestic cricket while

Smith and Warner got oneyear bans. Both Smith and Warner have since made successful comebacks to the national side and were set to feature in the Indian Premier League after the end

of the New Zealand series.

But the league itself has been postponed and uncertainty looms over it due to the three-week lockdown in India due to the coronavirus pandemic.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness…”

2 Tim. 4: 7-8.

Steve Smith

SYDNEY, MARCH 29 (IANS): Former Australian captain Steve Smith is free to captain the national team again after his 2-year captaincy ban came to an end on Sunday. This would be of little significance however with no cricket coming up in Australia, or anywhere in the world, due to the corona-

virus pandemic.

Smith last played for Australia in their first ODI against New Zealand in an empty Sydney Cricket Ground. The three-match ODI series was eventually called off as travel restrictions started being put in place in New Zealand to deal with the pandemic.

Smith’s captaincy ban was imposed by Cricket Australia in the calamitous aftermath of the 2018 Sandpapergate in which he had admitted that he had allowed opener Cameron Bancroft to use sandpaper to manipulate the conditions of the ball during their third Test against South Africa in

Cricketer Richa Ghosh donates COVID-19: Heather Knight Rs 1 lakh in fight against COVID-19 to volunteer for NHS scheme

Richa Ghosh

KOLKATA, MARCH 29 (IANS): All-rounder Richa Ghosh, who represented India in the Women’s T20 World Cup earlier this month, on Sunday donated Rs 1 lakh to the Bengal Chief Minister’s relief fund in fight against the COVID19 pandemic.

The 16-year old’s father handed over a cheque of Rs 1 Lakh to Siliguri District Magistrate Sumanta Sahay.

“When everybody is fighting COVID-19 and the chief minister has appealed for a united battle against it, I thought of contributing a bit as a responsible citizen of the country,” Richa, who played two matches in K Y M C

the T20 World Cup including the final, said.

Having made her debut in the tri-series in Australia before the T20 World Cup, Richa and Shafali Verma were the two 16year-olds who played the final which India lost to Australia by 85 runs on March 8.

As many as 66 match observers contributed Rs 2,000 each with one of them contributing Rs 18,000 on behalf of ex observers totalling to an amount of Rs 1,50,000 towards West Bengal State Emergency Fund. The amount would be transferred initially by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and de-

ducted from the dues of these observers.

Similarly, 82 numbers of scorers contributed their day’s pay aggregating to an amount of Rs 77,420. The scorers have also made similar requests to CAB to pay initially and later deducting the amount when they get their payments.Representative of Mohammedan Sporting Club at the CAB, Dipak Singh donated personally Rs 2 lakh to the Relief Fund.Former Women’s Test Player Mithu Mukherjee has expressed her desire to contribute Rs 25,000.

Coach of Bengal Women’s U23 team Jayanta Ghosh Dastidar would contribute Rs 10,000.

While units like White Border Club and Vijay Sports Club would be donating Rs 50,000 each through CAB, Uttar Pally Milan Sangha, Suburban Club and Rangers Club would make contributions of Rs 25,000 each via CAB. Among the District Sports Associations (DSA), Coochbehar DSA agreed to donate Rs 10,000 to the State Relief Fund.

Heather Knight

London, March 29 (IANS): England captain Heather Knight said that she has joined UK’s National Health Service’s (NHS) volunteer scheme amidst the outbreak of coronavirus in the country. Knight said that she will be helping in transporting medicines and spreading awareness about the pandemic in the United Kingdom.

“I signed up to the NHS’ volunteer scheme as I have a lot of free time on my hands and I want to help as much as I can,” wrote Knight in her columb for BBC Sport.

“My brother and his

partner are doctors, and I have a few friends who work in the NHS, so I know how hard they are working and how difficult it is for everyone,” she said.

“I’m going to get the car out as I’ve volunteered to transport medicine, and also speak to people who are self-isolating. If someone is home alone, you can ring them up and chat. They have had so many people sign up.”

British media reports state that over 170,000 people have signed up for the NHS volunteer scheme since the outbreak of the endemic.

Born on 25/03/1938 – Died on 26/03/2020 The family of Late Hokishe Kiho wishes to acknowledge the support and kindness rendered to us as we mourn the loss of our beloved father. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the churches, organizations, friends, relatives and well-wishers for being our strength during this time of loss.

We also express our gratitude to the Doctors, Nurses and Staff of Zion Hospital, Dimapur for your tireless service and care during the illness of our beloved father.

Kindly accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. Our beloved father lived an honorable life and our family wishes to share his blessings with each one of you. God bless you.

With our Prayer, Family DP-2206

K Y M C

12

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

COVID-19: Olympic flame to be kept in Tokyo Stay home like the Pujara

To k yo, M a rc h 2 9 (IANS): The Olympic flame will be displayed in Fukushima for a month before being kept in Tokyo, local reports said on Sunday.

Japanese broadcaster NHK said that the flame, which arrived in Japan from Athens on March 20, will be on display in J-Villiage, Fukushima from April, according to a Xinhua news agency report.

“The show will be managed carefully to avoid coronavirus spread,” the report said. “It would be suspended should there is a big crowd.”

The f lame will be brought back to Tokyo but Tokyo 2020 has not decided where to keep it before the torch relay starts next year.

Meanwhile, Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori has warned International Federations that it will be a “major challenge” on deciding who covers the additional costs arising from the postponement of the Olympic Games.

On Saturday, Mori had said that the new dates for the postponed Olympic could be decided by the end of next week.The Olympic Games, which will be held in the summer of 2021 at the latest, is most likely to be held between June and September, Mori said during a program broadcast by Nippon Television.

“I want to offer some conclusions by the end of next week, after we’ve mulled it over,” Mori said.

Mori also said in a letter addressed to the 33 international sports federations

Olympic flames stay lit in Europe as a beacon of hope.

that the extra costs that comes from the postponement of the Games will be inevitable and a challenge to cover.

“Deciding who bears these costs will be a major challenge,” he said in the letter which has been posted on the website of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The announcement of the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics was made by the IOC and the organising committee in a joint statement after president Thomas Bach’’s telephonic conversation with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Olympics delay a blow for virus-hit Tokyo hotels

The shock postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics has dealt a savage blow to Japan’s ho-

tels and tourism industry, already reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Many operators have seen bookings decimated by the virus and had been clinging to the hope that the Games would help them claw back this year’s losses.

“This is an enormous shock for us, with sales in many of our member hotels already down by half because of plunging demand for tourism, not only from abroad but also inside Japan due to the coronavirus,” said Shigemi Sudo, secretary general of the Tokyo Hotels and Ryokans Association.

“Many rooms are going to be cancelled, and it will be difficult to fill those empty rooms with new customers given the situation,”

he said.

T h e d e l ay, w h i c h came after weeks of Olympic organisers and officials insisting the sporting extravaganza would go ahead despite the soaring number of virus infections globally, leaves the industry in limbo as they wait for a new date to be set for 2021.

Like the rest of the world, Japan’s hotel industry has been devastated by the spread of the coronavirus with bookings down by as much as 90 percent year-on-year in the MarchApril period, according to a survey by the Japan Tourism Agency.

The agency is fielding calls from struggling businesses across the country.

“The most frequent consultation requests we’ve received are about cash-flow difficulties and

Man City’s Etihad stadium to be used by NHS

Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium will be partially taken over by the United Kingdom’s National Health Sevice (NHS) to help in fight the coronavirus pandemic.

M a n c h e st e r , March 29 (IANS): Premier League champions Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium will be partially taken over by the Unit-

ed Kingdom’s National Health Sevice (NHS) to help in fight the coronavirus pandemic.

According to a Sky Sports report, City will

make avalable the stadium’s executive boxers and conference rooms to train doctors and nurses during the crisis.

Earlier City had teamed up with cross-town

rivals Manchester United to donate 100,000 pounds to help support food banks around Manchester during the pandemic. Both clubs said in a joint statement that it will donate 50,000 pounds each to the Trussell Trust a support network of more than 1,200 food banks.

“We are proud of the role our supporters play in helping local food banks and recognise the increased strain likely to be placed on these charities by the impact of coronavirus,” a joint club statement said on Saturday.”At a time of challenge for our community, we are pleased to come together with our fans to help vulnerable members of society in a City United.”

The number of people who have died with coronavirus in the UK has now reached 1,019, with a further 260 deaths announced on Saturday. There are now 17,089 confirmed cases in the UK.

m a i n t a i n i n g e m p l oy ment,” an official told AFP. Keio Plaza Hotel in Tokyo’s busy Shinjuku district -- home to the victorious Springboks during the Rugby World Cup -- said it began receiving cancellation calls shortly after the delay was announced.

Its woes are compounded by the fact that a part-time worker at the hotel contracted the virus, forcing a deep clean of the vast building in one of Tokyo’s busiest districts.

“We hope to play a role (in hosting visitors for the postponed Olympics), but there’s nothing we can say now,” a hotel spokeswoman said.

The Imperial Hotel in central Tokyo had been block-booked by Tokyo 2020 organisers for the original dates of the Games, which were due to open on July 24, and said it was now waiting for guidance.

Even before the postponement it had been struggling with the “grave impact” of a downturn in tourism because of the pandemic, and had slashed its net profit forecast for the fiscal year ending this month by 37 percent.

For hotel chains such as Via Inn, the situation has caused unprecedented conundrums in recouping losses and filling hotel rooms. “Normally we’d be able to collect cancellation fees, but in this case it isn’t the fault of our customers, so we can’t request that,” a spokesman told AFP.

Knicks owner tests positive for coronavirus

W a s h in g t o n , March 29 (IANS): New York Knicks owner James Dolan has tested positive for coronavirus, the team confirmed in a statement on Saturday.

The Knicks said that Dolan, 64, is experiencing “little to no symptoms” and is self-isolating. He is the first US major pro sport team owner known to have tested positive for the virus.

The NBA has been suspended for more than two weeks, after players tested positive for the virus.

At the time, the Knicks were 21-45 in the season.

Of the 115,547 cases in the US, reported on Saturday afternoon, 53,216 are in New York state with 29,158 in the city and 15,199 in surrounding areas within the state.

Neighbouring New Jersey had 11,124 cases and Connecticut 1,291.

family, says BCCI

Cheteshwar Pujara with his family at his home.

New Delhi, March 29 (IANS): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday posted images of batsman Cheteshwar Pujara with his family at his home.

“Stay home with your near and dear ones like the Pujara Family,” said the caption of the post.

Pujara had earlier spoken about life in quarantine.

“It’s a welcome change for me,” Pujara told Sportstar.

“I like spending time with myself, reading a book or watching TV is something I would do when I’m alone.

“That said, I’ve a young daughter who is so energetic and wants to play all the time, so half my day goes into taking care of her. I’m also helping my wife Puja with the daily chores.”

Pujara last played for India during their tour of New Zealand and was part

of the Saurashtra team that won a historic Ranji Trophy title this season. With no Test series scheduled for India for the foreseeable future and having gone unsold in the Indian Premier League auction, Pujara had signed for County side Gloucestershire to play six matches.

The global cricketing calendar has however come to a standstill due to the crisis caused by coronavirus.

Gambhir donates Rs 1 crore to PM CARES fund

New Delhi, March 29 (IANS): Former Indian batsman and Lok Sabha MP Gautam Gambhir said that he has released Rs one crore out of his MP Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) towards the relief efforts amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“It is time that all resources of the country be directed towards fighting COVID-19. Have released INR 1 Crore from my MP LAD fund towards relief efforts. Have also donated one month’s salary towards the Central Relief Fund. United we

stand!!” said Gambhir.

Earlier, Gambhir had said in a statement that his foundation was distributing food packets to poor people in his constituency. The statement also said that during the lockdown, 2,000 packets of food were being prepared and distributed by the foundation, and that efforts were being made so that no one should have to worry about food at this time. Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju also said that he has donated Rs one crore from his MPLAD fund.

ICC pays tribute to Joginder amid COVID-19 outbreak

New Delhi, March 29 (IANS): Joginder Sharma, the former India fast bowler who famously bowled the decisive last over of the 2007 World T20 final in which India beat Pakistan, has been involved in the battle against coronavirus. Joginder joined the police force in his home state of Haryana after retiring from the game Deputy Superintendent of Police in the state.

Pictures of him at work in the streets with masks and gloves on were tweeted by him and a number of other people over the past few days.

On Sunday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) paid tribute to Joginder. “2007: #T20WorldCup hero 2020: Real world hero In his postcricket career as a policeman,

Joginder Sharma

India’s Joginder Sharma is among those doing their bit amid a global health crisis,” said the ICC in its tweet.

Joginder had a short international career of four ODIs and four T20Is but was immortalised when he took the wicket of Misbahul-Haq, who looked set to win the match for Pakistan,

and India won the inaugural World T20 title. He played 77 matches in his first class career in which he took 297 wickets. Currently, 819 active COVID-19 cases have been reported across the country and the pandemic has claimed 19 lives. Globally, the pandemic has taken over 30,000 lives.

F1 World C’ship could finish in January: Ferrari boss

The original 2020 calendar had 22 races but the season is yet to start with the first eight postponed or cancelled.

London, March 29 (IANS): As Formula 1 seeks to salvage the 2020 season affected severely by the cornavirus pandemic, the world championship

could be extend into January next year, says Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto.

“We’re assessing various ideas -- races closer together, maybe doing two

or three races in January, cancelling (Friday) practice,” he said as quoted by BBC. Speaking to Sky Sports Italia, Binotto said: “I have

felt, along with the other team principals, that these are decisive moments.

“We’ve decided to give complete freedom to (Formula 1 chairman Chase) Carey and the FIA to put together as soon as possible a timetable for us to get racing again, we are willing on our side.”

Carey said in a statement last week that he “fully expected the season to start at some point this summer, with a revised calendar of between 15-18 races”.

So far, the first eight races have been called off and the British Grand Prix in July is also under threat.

The final race of this season is slated to be the Abu Dhabi GP on November 29.

Formula 1 CEO Chase Carey had said earlier in the week that they are ex-

pecting to run a shortened season of 15-18 races once racing starts after the coronavirus pandemic, which has brought entire sporting calendar to a grinding halt.

The original 2020 calendar had 22 races but the season is yet to start with the first eight postponed or cancelled and more likely to be called off amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The campaign was supposed to begin March 15 with the Australian Grand Prix, but that race was called off hours before the scheduled start of free practice, followed in rapid succession by the postponement of the next six races on the schedule: Bahrain, Vietnam, China, the Netherlands, Spain and Monaco. On Monday, Azerbaijan Grand Prix, set for June 7 in Baku, was also postponed.

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